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Dear readers,
This is the last News & Notes for 2004. The next one will go out on 9 January 2005.
A very happy Christmas and all God's blessings to you and yours.
Mike Leon
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ADVENT / CHRISTMAS 2004
Joining the masses for a festive praise (photo) Waikato Times 18 December 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/waikatotimes/0,2106,3132102a6578,00.html Lester Thorley talks to Christina Reymer, whose family will be among the faithful Catholics celebrating Midnight Mass this year....
Place a candle in your window. The burning flame on Christmas Eve welcomes Mary, Joseph, Jesus and the weary traveller. Western Catholic Reporter (Canada) December 20, 2004 http://www.wcr.ab.ca/news/2004/1220/candle122004.shtml Himself now off to New Zealand to fill in so one-man parish priests can have Christmas break, Paul Andrews, the Irish Jesuit we hear from at the beginning of this story, gives perhaps the most powerful explanation of what we are saying when we light that candle....
Come, let us adore him, by Gerald O'Collins SJ The Tablet (UK) 18/12/2004 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi/tablet-00962 Carols evoke the extraordinary Christmas story of the baby born in a stable. They also help us understand through their familiar words the tenets of our faith...
Meditating on the Second Coming: Advent's Spiritual Pilgrimage, by Robert E. Webber Christianity Today, December 6 2004 http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/149/52.0.html The birth of Christ is only the final stop when meditating this holiday season....
The crèche is a sign of culture and faith, Pope says Asia News 12 December, 2004 http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2098 Vatican City (AsiaNews) - Speaking before the Angelus, the Pope said that the scene of the Nativity of Jesus was not only "part of our culture and art but also a sign of faith in God who, in Bethlehem, "made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14).....
Israeli Christians to visit Bethlehem this Christmas AsiaNews 17 December, 2004 http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2140 Jerusalem (AsiaNews) - Signs of thaw in the Holy Land after the Israeli government announced that it would not prevent Israeli Christians from visiting Bethlehem for Christmas celebrations....
"Cost of living" in Europe and Iraq: in constant danger Christians in Baghdad and Mosul will spend Christmas behind barred doors http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2004/0412/10_3692.html Baghdad (Fides Service) - Despite an ever higher cost of living in Europe Christmas shopping and present hunting is in full swing while in the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Mosul the cost of living is another matter and Christians feel ever more threatened....
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WORLD DAY OF PEACE - 1 JANUARY 2005
Pope's Message for 2005 World Day of Peace "Do Not Be Overcome by Evil but Overcome Evil With Good" http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63676 Vatican City, Dec. 16, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Here is John Paul II's Message for the World Day of Peace, to be observed Jan. 1. The Vatican press office released it today....
Presentation on Message for World Day of Peace "Right to Peace and to Development" http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63677 Vatican City, Dec. 16, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Here is the address delivered today by Cardinal Renato Martino, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, when presenting to the press the message of John Paul II for World Day of Peace 2005....
Between the dangerous threat of preventive war and the sterile noise of pacifism, the Pope chooses to "build" peace. [Commentary on the Message by Fr Bernardo Cevellera] Asia News 16 December, 2004 http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2128
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'NZ CATHOLIC'
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
No. 202, December 12-18, 2004
(Issue 203 - on sale this weekend - is the last for 2004. The next issue of 'NZ Catholic' will be published on 30 January 2005)
Award for excellence to Queenstown teacher Queenstown - A teacher from St Joseph's School in Queenstown has received the top award in the 2004 ASG National Excellence in Teaching Awards....
School dispute focuses on "tagged" positions Christchurch - The significance of "tagged" teaching positions in Catholic schools has been highlighted by a dispute involving St Joseph's School at Rangiora....
Religious to gather for the first time Wellington - St Catherine's College in Kilbirnie is the venue for New Zealand's first-ever national conference of religious orders, to be held in January....
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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Ingenious and industrious man of the land George Walter Parker, farmer and racing identity (obituary - photo) Otago Daily Times Dec 11, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/6gaeg Walter Parker could fix anything with a piece of string or lacing wire and his trusty pocket knife. The retired Roxburgh farmer, who died recently aged 79, was described as a man who learnt from the hardships of being raised on a farm in the early part of last century. It taught him to make do with whatever was available....
Brash nibbles at tax carrot for insured NZ Herald 16.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=3&ObjectID=9003433 "It is not at all clear to me why some New Zealanders should be expected to pay twice for their healthcare and the education of their children - once through their tax and once through health insurance premiums and school fees" [said Don Brash in a speech last Friday].... Coupling the issue with school fees is interesting, however. The Institute of Economic Research, in a 2001 report on the tax treatment of health insurance premiums, cites as a precedent the case of integrated (mainly Catholic) schools....
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FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Survey links happiness with Christianity http://www.cathnews.com/news/412/66.php Christians are happier than atheists, and more generous, according to new findings from the National Church Life Survey titled Spirituality and Wellbeing....
Veteran of the Vatican Information Service. Interview With Joan Lewis Vatican City, Dec. 14, 2004 (zenit.org).- Striking among the aspects of John Paul II's pontificate is his relationship with the media. With this in mind, journalist Joan Lewis of the Vatican Information Service explains how her work has changed over the years. Part 1: http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63542 Part 2: http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63610
Saudi Christian convert arrested and jailed AsiaNews 17 December, 2004 http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2134 Jeddah (AsiaNews) - A Saudi citizen converted to Christianity has been arrested and jailed. Emad Alaabadi was taken into custody last November 29, at Hofuf, a town in eastern Saudi Arabia. AsiaNews local sources have confirmed the report, and also say that he "is not the only Saudi Christian in jail at the moment: there are also others"....
The Shroud's Second Image New evidence reopens debate about the controversial relic. Christianity Today, December 2004 http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/012/32.56.html Two scientists from the University of Padua report in the April edition of the London-based Journal of Optics the discovery of a heretofore-undetected reverse image on the Shroud of Turin....
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MARIST BROTHERS' NEWSLETTERS
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'Marist Champagnat Family Newsletter' Spring Edition 2004 http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz/MFN1Spring2004.htm
Song of Awakening ... A letter from Anicet Lakomy (former Polish child-refugee) ... News from Takuilau College, Tonga ... Brother Chris Poppelwell, East Timor ... Marist Vocation Year ... A Marist Ministry: Brother Ray Harold at the Point Chevalier Forensic Psychiatry service ... Recent Deaths: Colin Rist, Brother Hubert Clifford, Hugh Murphy, Pat Fay, Patricia Chiaroni,Tony Jacobsen, Ray Fitzgerald ... La Valla Old Boys Association ... Appointment of Marist Old Boy Bishop Colin Campbell ... "Blessed are the Peacemakers" ... Humour
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MYAM Notes (Marist Young Adult Ministry)
http://www.myam.org.nz
About the The Grove community of young adults ... Leadership formation programmes.
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'Champagnat News' A Newsletter for Boards of Trustees and Staff of Marist Schools and Schools with Marist Traditions in New Zealand
The Champagnat Newsletter was not published during Term 4 2004, but the previous issue, September 2004 http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz/CNSept20041.htm is packed with interesting articles and well worth a visit if you haven't already seen it. ML.
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CARITAS AOTERAROA NZ
http://www.caritas.org.nz
NEWSROOM
Thousands Homeless after Eruption on Manam Island 14 December , 2004: The continuing volcanic eruptions on Manam Island, off the coast of Papua New Guinea, have seen the evacuation of nearly all of the island's approximately 9500 inhabitants. Since October 2004, the volcano has been spewing ash, lava and large rocks into the air, covering homes and crops with a blanket of thick ash and polluting water supplies, rendering the island uninhabitable and prompting a mass evacuation to the mainland...
Responding to the devastation in the Philippines 10 December , 2004: Following the four consecutive typhoons of Unding, Violeta, Winnie and Yoyong and tropical storms that have hit the Philippines since November 22, Caritas Internationalis has launched a $200,000 USD appeal to provide emergency relief to 3,000 families.......
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PENPAL REQUEST
Nelson Wandis, a 19-year-old seminarian in Papua New Guinea, would like to correspond with NZ Catholic parishioners. His address: St John Vianney Minor Seminary, PO Box 205, Vanimo, Sandaun Province, Papua New Guinea.
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CATHOLICTV.NET
Media Centre of the Wellington Archdiocese
http://www.catholictv.net
Mass of Thanksgiving to mark the 25th anniversary of Cardinal Williams Episcopal ordination (video report) The mass was celebrated in Sacred Heart Cathedral on Monday, Dec 13, 2004. The homily of thanksgiving was given by Coadjutor Archbishop, John Dew, who will succeed Cardinal Williams. Cardinal William's fellow bishops from around New Zealand, and about sixty diocesan priests, family, friends, and national and diocesan work staff attended.
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TUI MOTU INTERISLANDS
http://www.tuimotu.org
From the December 2004 issue ...
No Room At The Inn (full text) The principal elements of the Christmas story are joy and delight: the birth of a child, the protective love of parents, the welcome of shepherds, the hosannas of angels. That's not the whole story. Not all countries are as welcoming, and many spend much of their lives in camps, wanted by nobody....
Also in the December issue ... Infant Jesus, Refugee - Joy Cowley A Creed To Believe - Glyn Cardy Dangerous Passions - Mike Noonan A Young Man In Search Of His Soul - Patricia Williams Smorgasbord Of Delights - Kathleen Doherty reviews books of 2004
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CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Pope's Peace Day message that violence can't solve problems Tasmanian Archbishop's plea to accept Monsignor's guilt Vatican delegation astonished by cancellation of meeting with Israel National religious orders Conference for NZ Tasmanian CEO eyes schools expansion Religion, ethics 'essential values for young people' across Asia
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EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
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Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy vacancies, Diocese of Christchurch 2-3 postions for tertiary co-ordinator and tertiary team workers Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.22, and from Mike Stopforth, Catholic Youth Team, PO Box 4544, Christchurch. Tel: (03) 366-9869; fax: (03) 379-8724; e-mail: mstopforth@chch.catholic.org.nz. Or after 20 December, Fr Michael Doyle, Tertiary priest-chaplain; e-mail: mjdoyle@paradise.net.nz Applications close 17 January 2005
Director, 'Mahitahi', the Project Assistance Agency of the NZ Catholic Bishops' Conference http://www.mahitahi.org/about.php Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.9, at: http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php and from: Mahitahi, 30 New Street, Ponsonby, Auckland. E-mail: timw@cda.org.nz Applications close 24 December 2004
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EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
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Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
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Sunday, December 19, 2004
Sunday, December 12, 2004
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ADVENT / CHRISTMAS 2004
Prayers and Customs of Advent and Christmas -http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx This resource from the Passionists in the US offers background to Advent prayers and practices. Sections include: Advent, a season of preparation ... Advent Wreath ... Prayers ... Customs... Meditations for each week of Advent ... About St. Nicholas ... Fasts and Feasts: Recipes ... Christmas Prayers and Customs ... Christmas Prayers for the Home, for the New Year, for the Family ... Feast of the Epiphany
Re-Thinking Family Christmas Traditions http://www.madonnamagazine.com.au/articles/0411pirola.html We speak of Christmas as a season of joy and peace. But the reality is that sometimes stress and friction reign in family life as the festive season approaches. What simple strategies can help to breathe peace into our Christmas experience? The following story, a snapshot from Vic and Liz O' Callaghan's evolving family culture, offers food for thought...
Bethlehem knows what it wants for Christmas: tourists. SFGate.com December 5, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/68uzw All over Manger Square and the rest of town, shopkeepers, hotel owners and just plain folks are hoping that visitors come and stay -- if only for a night...
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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
No adoption changes planned - Government http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3120864a6160,00.html NZPA 08 December 2004 The Government has no plans to allow same-sex couples to adopt children, Associate Justice Minister David Benson-Pope said yesterday...
Bishops go too far The Press (Chch) 07 December 2004 http://tinyurl.com/6g79o The Catholic bishops have misjudged the temper of the public and risked their authority by issuing last Sunday's pastoral letter, The Press says in an editorial. Far from advancing their opposition to the Civil Union Bill, the intervention will make the legislation's passage more likely...
SIS to keep watch on Zaoui http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3123185a11,00.html The Dominion Post 10 December 2004 Bailed Algerian refugee Ahmed Zaoui is likely to be shadowed by Security Intelligence Service agents and have his phone bugged. Mr Zaoui left jail last night to live at the friary of the Catholic Dominican order in Auckland while the much-delayed review of his security status is undertaken...
Bail frees refugee to tell son of jail stint NZ Herald 10.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=9002550 When Ahmed Zaoui arrived at the Dominican Friary in Newton, the new home he will share with Catholic priests, some journalists were already waiting...
Video interviews with Ahmed Zaoui: http://tinyurl.com/6uqo8
'Old-fashioned values' boost school roll Otago Daily Times Dec 4, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/4e9jg A Milton school has bucked the trend of falling rolls in small rural communities by more than doubling its roll within the last decade. St Mary's School was once a struggling two-teacher school with just 27 pupils on the books. Today, there are five teachers responsible for a roll of 66, and an extra classroom is high on the wish-list...
Vatican university takes on the devil Reuters 11 December 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3124218a4560,00.html Rome: Forget the new Exorcist film, the Vatican is offering the real thing. A Vatican university says it will hold a special "theoretical and practical" course for Roman Catholic priests on Satanism and exorcism in response to what the Church says is a worrying interest in the occult, particularly among the young...
Sister Judith: No-nonsense nun who has the Vatican online Khaleej Times (UAE) 11 December 2004 http://tinyurl.com/6prlf Vatican City - "Is there a patron saint of the Internet?" is the most common question Sister Judith Zoebelein has to answer. "Not yet," replies this diminutive, no-nonsense nun from New York City. Sister Judith, 55, is a self-taught computer expert. And there was no heavenly help at hand when she was first asked to create the Vatican's web site, back in 1995...
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FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
OK to civil unions makes "sad day" for New Zealand Catholic World Report http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33951 Wellington, New Zealand, Dec. 10 (CNA/CWNews.com) - With the passage of the Civil Union Bill into law today in New Zealand, the pro-family group Family Life International New Zealand called it a "sad day" for the country and said that the parliamentary decision "makes an absolute mockery of due democratic process and will have many negative implications for future generations" ....
Navarro Valls on His Work as Director of Vatican Press Office. Spokesman Marks 20-Year Milestone (interview) http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63155 Rome, Dec. 6, 2004 (Zenit.org).- It was 1974 when Dr. Joaquín Navarro Valls, together with Giovanni Caprile, stirred a public debate about the scant official information available on the Synod on Evangelization. The relator of the synod was Cardinal Karol Wojtyla. Ten years later, on Dec. 4, 1984, Cardinal Wojtyla, now John Paul II, appointed Navarro Valls director of the Holy See's Press Office...
How "The Passion" Rattled Hollywood (interview) http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63321 Hollywood, California, Dec. 9, 2004 (Zenit.Org).- Plenty of bad movies still come out of Tinseltown, but an industry insider sees some positive changes in the wake of "The Passion of the Christ." Barbara Nicolosi, director of Act One, a boot camp for Christian screenwriters who hope to work in mainstream Hollywood, told Zenit how bad movies are bad business for Hollywood, now that the industry has seen the power of the Christian audience...
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SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (8 December in New Zealand)
Church set to mark 150th anniversary of Immaculate Conception dogma http://www.cathnews.com/news/412/26.php Pope John Paul II is leading celebrations for Wednesday's 150th anniversary of the proclamation of the Immaculate Conception dogma, which include a four-day international congress, a commemorative liturgy involving Pope John Paul II, and a special "Concert for Immaculate Mary" in the Vatican's audience hall... [includes numerous related links]
Pope prays to the Immaculate Virgin for peace and the sacredness of life http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2074 Rome (AsiaNews) - In his prayer before the statue of Mary in Piazza di Spagna, just above the Spanish steps, the Pope called on the Virgin on the day celebrating Her Immaculate Conception to help humanity build a world in which everyone will want peace and in which there will be respect for life that wars and man's pretensions have threatened...
Pope keeps up tradition of Spanish Steps stop at start of holiday schedule http://cbsnewyork.com/international/Vatican-Pope-ai/resources_news_html CBS 2 New York
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INTERNATIONAL DIALOGUE ON INTERFAITH COOPERATION
Terrorism is anti-religious, Asian religious leaders say http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2071 Yogyakarta (AsiaNews) - Religious leaders from the Asia-Pacific region said in a joint statement that inter-faith dialogue must be strengthened and fundamentalist groups condemned as an obstacle to peace. Meeting at Yogyakarta (central Java), 124 representatives of different religions (Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish) along with political leaders agreed that dialogue between religions and peace must be promoted in the region...
Religious leaders join to fight radicals http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3120993a12,00.html Reuters 08 December 2004 Indonesia: Leaders at a 13-nation interfaith conference said they would go home with new ideas on working together against violence-prone religious radicals and solving problems that fuel extremism. Participants at the International Dialogue on Interfaith Cooperation ranged from Buddhist monks in orange robes to Muslim muftis and Catholic cardinals. Jews, Protestants, Hindus and Confucionists were also on hand...
Downer urges pulpit war against terror http://www.cathnews.com/news/412/33.php Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has told more than 120 religious leaders at the inter-faith meeting in Indonesia that the war on terror will fail if it is not pursued in pulpits, mosques, synagogues and temples... [Includes many related links]
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CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Australian prisoners focus of bishop's Human Rights Day message Suspended sentence for Tasmanian monsignor Diocese considers private-sector funding for schools Pope says respect cultural difference, but don't forget universal values Melbourne, Brisbane Archdioceses planning for future Persecution today for "mad monk" Abbott
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THE NATHANIEL CENTRE - The NZ Catholic Bioethics Centre
From the Nathaniel Report, November 2004 http://www.nathaniel.org.nz/natrpt14.htm
Editorial: Abortion - Technology and Truth (full text) One in four pregnancies in New Zealand now end in abortion, compared with one in ten two decades ago. The reasons are complex and need to be examined within the context of some very significant demographic and sociological changes. A focus on changing the law would, by itself, be an inadequate approach to dealing with the increasing abortion rate...
Also in this issue ...
Update on the Human Assisted Reproductive Technology (HART) Bill This piece identifies changes to the HART Bill recommended by the Health Select Committee as the Bill enters the House to be debated by the Committee of the Whole House. It also highlights those matters which, from a Catholic perspective, are of 'grave concern'.
Clinical - Ethical Judgements without "short cuts" This article by Australian moral theologian Gerald Gleeson explores the debate among Catholic ethicists regarding the obligations towards persistently unresponsive (PVS) patients and identifies two "short cuts" that are commonly deployed in this debate.
Aged Health Care and Ethical Business Practice A reflection by a practitioner in the field of leadership development and management assessment, this article sets out three theories of leadership behaviour which form the background to a series of questions designed to stimulate those involved in aged care to reflect on the ethical nature of their own behaviour.
The Starfish Programme A wonderfully inspiring story of a remarkable New Zealand woman Liese Groot-Alberts who has been part of a team transforming the conditions and care of people with severe and terminal illness in a Philippines hospital.
Toi te Taiao: Use of Human Genes in Other Organisms A short synopsis of the consultation process undertaken by Toi te Taiao on the cultural, spiritual and ethical issues arising from the use of human genes in other organisms.
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CARITAS AOTEAROA NZ
http://www.caritas.org.nz
From the Newsroom ...
Day of Prayer for the Holy Land 9 December, 2004: The Catholic Bishops' Conferences of North Africa and the Arab Regions have asked Catholics throughout the world to join a day of prayer and fasting for the Holy Land on Wednesday 22 December 2004. At their most recent meeting, the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference agreed to support this request, and information has been distributed to all Catholic parishes by Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand ....
Commemoration of West Papuan Anniversary of Independence 1 December, 2004: Caritas staff and supporters joined a commemoration at Parliament on 1 December of the West Papuan anniversary of independence from the Dutch in 1961. Caritas programmes manager Peter Zwart told the gathering that although West Papuans were promised independence by 1970, authority over West Papua was later passed to Indonesia without West Papuan input ...
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MARIST MESSENGER (Society of Mary NZ)
http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz/index.php
Online in the December Messenger ...
** Readings: Daily Mass readings and devotional prayers.
** Daily News from the Catholic world.
** E-Cards Easter, Birthday, Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation, Wedding and Christmas cards.
** Focus This issue marks 75 years of the Marist Messenger (1929-2004), so it is an opportunity for us to thank God and "to praise our illustrious ancestors in their successive generations." [Eccus 44:1] ... (This Focus is the farewell editorial of the seventh editor of the Marist Messenger, Fr Carl Telford sm.)
** Dear Joseph, look after them It has sometimes bothered me a little that - though Saint Joseph is my patron saint - I can think of no obvious intervention in my life, where I can say 'Ah, that was the hand of Joseph!' I chose him as a patron when I came into the Church as an adult convert; and chose him deliberately because I am a married man with a family.
** An Unexpected Grace A couple invite an elderly lady for Christmas Dinner, and so begins the story of a lasting friendship.
** The Hidden Mary When we talk of God we leave behind human gender issues and use the words male and female to describe the different aspects and energies we experience in all of creation. Which, of course, does not say what God is, but how we, with our limited senses, perceive God.
Also in the December Marist Messenger ... * A Second Chance * An Unexpected Grace * Our Lady and the Visitation * The Cardinal Virtues * Missing Midnight Mass
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EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
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Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy vacancies, Diocese of Christchurch 2-3 postions for tertiary co-ordinator and tertiary team workers Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.22, and from Mike Stopforth, Catholic Youth Team, PO Box 4544, Christchurch. Tel: (03) 366-9869; fax: (03) 379-8724; e-mail: mstopforth@chch.catholic.org.nz. Or after 20 December, Fr Michael Doyle, Tertiary priest-chaplain; e-mail: mjdoyle@paradise.net.nz Applications close 17 January 2005
Director, 'Mahitahi', the Project Assistance Agency of the NZ Catholic Bishops' Conference http://www.mahitahi.org/about.php Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.9, and from Mahitahi, 30 New Street, Ponsonby, Auckland. E-mail: timw@cda.org.nz Applications close 24 December 2004
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
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EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
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Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
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ADVENT / CHRISTMAS 2004
Prayers and Customs of Advent and Christmas -http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx This resource from the Passionists in the US offers background to Advent prayers and practices. Sections include: Advent, a season of preparation ... Advent Wreath ... Prayers ... Customs... Meditations for each week of Advent ... About St. Nicholas ... Fasts and Feasts: Recipes ... Christmas Prayers and Customs ... Christmas Prayers for the Home, for the New Year, for the Family ... Feast of the Epiphany
Re-Thinking Family Christmas Traditions http://www.madonnamagazine.com.au/articles/0411pirola.html We speak of Christmas as a season of joy and peace. But the reality is that sometimes stress and friction reign in family life as the festive season approaches. What simple strategies can help to breathe peace into our Christmas experience? The following story, a snapshot from Vic and Liz O' Callaghan's evolving family culture, offers food for thought...
Bethlehem knows what it wants for Christmas: tourists. SFGate.com December 5, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/68uzw All over Manger Square and the rest of town, shopkeepers, hotel owners and just plain folks are hoping that visitors come and stay -- if only for a night...
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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
No adoption changes planned - Government http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3120864a6160,00.html NZPA 08 December 2004 The Government has no plans to allow same-sex couples to adopt children, Associate Justice Minister David Benson-Pope said yesterday...
Bishops go too far The Press (Chch) 07 December 2004 http://tinyurl.com/6g79o The Catholic bishops have misjudged the temper of the public and risked their authority by issuing last Sunday's pastoral letter, The Press says in an editorial. Far from advancing their opposition to the Civil Union Bill, the intervention will make the legislation's passage more likely...
SIS to keep watch on Zaoui http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3123185a11,00.html The Dominion Post 10 December 2004 Bailed Algerian refugee Ahmed Zaoui is likely to be shadowed by Security Intelligence Service agents and have his phone bugged. Mr Zaoui left jail last night to live at the friary of the Catholic Dominican order in Auckland while the much-delayed review of his security status is undertaken...
Bail frees refugee to tell son of jail stint NZ Herald 10.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=9002550 When Ahmed Zaoui arrived at the Dominican Friary in Newton, the new home he will share with Catholic priests, some journalists were already waiting...
Video interviews with Ahmed Zaoui: http://tinyurl.com/6uqo8
'Old-fashioned values' boost school roll Otago Daily Times Dec 4, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/4e9jg A Milton school has bucked the trend of falling rolls in small rural communities by more than doubling its roll within the last decade. St Mary's School was once a struggling two-teacher school with just 27 pupils on the books. Today, there are five teachers responsible for a roll of 66, and an extra classroom is high on the wish-list...
Vatican university takes on the devil Reuters 11 December 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3124218a4560,00.html Rome: Forget the new Exorcist film, the Vatican is offering the real thing. A Vatican university says it will hold a special "theoretical and practical" course for Roman Catholic priests on Satanism and exorcism in response to what the Church says is a worrying interest in the occult, particularly among the young...
Sister Judith: No-nonsense nun who has the Vatican online Khaleej Times (UAE) 11 December 2004 http://tinyurl.com/6prlf Vatican City - "Is there a patron saint of the Internet?" is the most common question Sister Judith Zoebelein has to answer. "Not yet," replies this diminutive, no-nonsense nun from New York City. Sister Judith, 55, is a self-taught computer expert. And there was no heavenly help at hand when she was first asked to create the Vatican's web site, back in 1995...
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FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
OK to civil unions makes "sad day" for New Zealand Catholic World Report http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33951 Wellington, New Zealand, Dec. 10 (CNA/CWNews.com) - With the passage of the Civil Union Bill into law today in New Zealand, the pro-family group Family Life International New Zealand called it a "sad day" for the country and said that the parliamentary decision "makes an absolute mockery of due democratic process and will have many negative implications for future generations" ....
Navarro Valls on His Work as Director of Vatican Press Office. Spokesman Marks 20-Year Milestone (interview) http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63155 Rome, Dec. 6, 2004 (Zenit.org).- It was 1974 when Dr. Joaquín Navarro Valls, together with Giovanni Caprile, stirred a public debate about the scant official information available on the Synod on Evangelization. The relator of the synod was Cardinal Karol Wojtyla. Ten years later, on Dec. 4, 1984, Cardinal Wojtyla, now John Paul II, appointed Navarro Valls director of the Holy See's Press Office...
How "The Passion" Rattled Hollywood (interview) http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=63321 Hollywood, California, Dec. 9, 2004 (Zenit.Org).- Plenty of bad movies still come out of Tinseltown, but an industry insider sees some positive changes in the wake of "The Passion of the Christ." Barbara Nicolosi, director of Act One, a boot camp for Christian screenwriters who hope to work in mainstream Hollywood, told Zenit how bad movies are bad business for Hollywood, now that the industry has seen the power of the Christian audience...
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SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (8 December in New Zealand)
Church set to mark 150th anniversary of Immaculate Conception dogma http://www.cathnews.com/news/412/26.php Pope John Paul II is leading celebrations for Wednesday's 150th anniversary of the proclamation of the Immaculate Conception dogma, which include a four-day international congress, a commemorative liturgy involving Pope John Paul II, and a special "Concert for Immaculate Mary" in the Vatican's audience hall... [includes numerous related links]
Pope prays to the Immaculate Virgin for peace and the sacredness of life http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2074 Rome (AsiaNews) - In his prayer before the statue of Mary in Piazza di Spagna, just above the Spanish steps, the Pope called on the Virgin on the day celebrating Her Immaculate Conception to help humanity build a world in which everyone will want peace and in which there will be respect for life that wars and man's pretensions have threatened...
Pope keeps up tradition of Spanish Steps stop at start of holiday schedule http://cbsnewyork.com/international/Vatican-Pope-ai/resources_news_html CBS 2 New York
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INTERNATIONAL DIALOGUE ON INTERFAITH COOPERATION
Terrorism is anti-religious, Asian religious leaders say http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2071 Yogyakarta (AsiaNews) - Religious leaders from the Asia-Pacific region said in a joint statement that inter-faith dialogue must be strengthened and fundamentalist groups condemned as an obstacle to peace. Meeting at Yogyakarta (central Java), 124 representatives of different religions (Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish) along with political leaders agreed that dialogue between religions and peace must be promoted in the region...
Religious leaders join to fight radicals http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3120993a12,00.html Reuters 08 December 2004 Indonesia: Leaders at a 13-nation interfaith conference said they would go home with new ideas on working together against violence-prone religious radicals and solving problems that fuel extremism. Participants at the International Dialogue on Interfaith Cooperation ranged from Buddhist monks in orange robes to Muslim muftis and Catholic cardinals. Jews, Protestants, Hindus and Confucionists were also on hand...
Downer urges pulpit war against terror http://www.cathnews.com/news/412/33.php Australia's Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has told more than 120 religious leaders at the inter-faith meeting in Indonesia that the war on terror will fail if it is not pursued in pulpits, mosques, synagogues and temples... [Includes many related links]
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CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Australian prisoners focus of bishop's Human Rights Day message Suspended sentence for Tasmanian monsignor Diocese considers private-sector funding for schools Pope says respect cultural difference, but don't forget universal values Melbourne, Brisbane Archdioceses planning for future Persecution today for "mad monk" Abbott
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THE NATHANIEL CENTRE - The NZ Catholic Bioethics Centre
From the Nathaniel Report, November 2004 http://www.nathaniel.org.nz/natrpt14.htm
Editorial: Abortion - Technology and Truth (full text) One in four pregnancies in New Zealand now end in abortion, compared with one in ten two decades ago. The reasons are complex and need to be examined within the context of some very significant demographic and sociological changes. A focus on changing the law would, by itself, be an inadequate approach to dealing with the increasing abortion rate...
Also in this issue ...
Update on the Human Assisted Reproductive Technology (HART) Bill This piece identifies changes to the HART Bill recommended by the Health Select Committee as the Bill enters the House to be debated by the Committee of the Whole House. It also highlights those matters which, from a Catholic perspective, are of 'grave concern'.
Clinical - Ethical Judgements without "short cuts" This article by Australian moral theologian Gerald Gleeson explores the debate among Catholic ethicists regarding the obligations towards persistently unresponsive (PVS) patients and identifies two "short cuts" that are commonly deployed in this debate.
Aged Health Care and Ethical Business Practice A reflection by a practitioner in the field of leadership development and management assessment, this article sets out three theories of leadership behaviour which form the background to a series of questions designed to stimulate those involved in aged care to reflect on the ethical nature of their own behaviour.
The Starfish Programme A wonderfully inspiring story of a remarkable New Zealand woman Liese Groot-Alberts who has been part of a team transforming the conditions and care of people with severe and terminal illness in a Philippines hospital.
Toi te Taiao: Use of Human Genes in Other Organisms A short synopsis of the consultation process undertaken by Toi te Taiao on the cultural, spiritual and ethical issues arising from the use of human genes in other organisms.
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CARITAS AOTEAROA NZ
http://www.caritas.org.nz
From the Newsroom ...
Day of Prayer for the Holy Land 9 December, 2004: The Catholic Bishops' Conferences of North Africa and the Arab Regions have asked Catholics throughout the world to join a day of prayer and fasting for the Holy Land on Wednesday 22 December 2004. At their most recent meeting, the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference agreed to support this request, and information has been distributed to all Catholic parishes by Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand ....
Commemoration of West Papuan Anniversary of Independence 1 December, 2004: Caritas staff and supporters joined a commemoration at Parliament on 1 December of the West Papuan anniversary of independence from the Dutch in 1961. Caritas programmes manager Peter Zwart told the gathering that although West Papuans were promised independence by 1970, authority over West Papua was later passed to Indonesia without West Papuan input ...
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MARIST MESSENGER (Society of Mary NZ)
http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz/index.php
Online in the December Messenger ...
** Readings: Daily Mass readings and devotional prayers.
** Daily News from the Catholic world.
** E-Cards Easter, Birthday, Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation, Wedding and Christmas cards.
** Focus This issue marks 75 years of the Marist Messenger (1929-2004), so it is an opportunity for us to thank God and "to praise our illustrious ancestors in their successive generations." [Eccus 44:1] ... (This Focus is the farewell editorial of the seventh editor of the Marist Messenger, Fr Carl Telford sm.)
** Dear Joseph, look after them It has sometimes bothered me a little that - though Saint Joseph is my patron saint - I can think of no obvious intervention in my life, where I can say 'Ah, that was the hand of Joseph!' I chose him as a patron when I came into the Church as an adult convert; and chose him deliberately because I am a married man with a family.
** An Unexpected Grace A couple invite an elderly lady for Christmas Dinner, and so begins the story of a lasting friendship.
** The Hidden Mary When we talk of God we leave behind human gender issues and use the words male and female to describe the different aspects and energies we experience in all of creation. Which, of course, does not say what God is, but how we, with our limited senses, perceive God.
Also in the December Marist Messenger ... * A Second Chance * An Unexpected Grace * Our Lady and the Visitation * The Cardinal Virtues * Missing Midnight Mass
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EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
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Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy vacancies, Diocese of Christchurch 2-3 postions for tertiary co-ordinator and tertiary team workers Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.22, and from Mike Stopforth, Catholic Youth Team, PO Box 4544, Christchurch. Tel: (03) 366-9869; fax: (03) 379-8724; e-mail: mstopforth@chch.catholic.org.nz. Or after 20 December, Fr Michael Doyle, Tertiary priest-chaplain; e-mail: mjdoyle@paradise.net.nz Applications close 17 January 2005
Director, 'Mahitahi', the Project Assistance Agency of the NZ Catholic Bishops' Conference http://www.mahitahi.org/about.php Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 12-18 p.9, and from Mahitahi, 30 New Street, Ponsonby, Auckland. E-mail: timw@cda.org.nz Applications close 24 December 2004
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
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EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
******************************************************
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
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Sunday, December 5, 2004
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CIVIL UNION BILL
Bishops call on NZ Catholics to take MPs Civil Union vote into account at next General Election Catholic Communications NZ. Media Release 1 Dec 2004 http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
NZ Catholic Bishops' Conference. Letter to the members of Parliament concerning the Civil Unions Bill (April 2004) http://www.catholic.org.nz/statements/0404civilunions.php
Catholics, Destiny staunch in their opposition to Bill Otago Daily Times Dec 3, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/5jnn8 New Zealand’s Roman Catholic bishops will not give up their fight against the Civil Union Bill, the Bishop of Dunedin, the Very Rev Colin Campbell, vowed last night...
Catholic threat to Civil Union Bill The Dominion Post 02 December 2004 http://stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3114981a10,00.html Catholic leaders have mounted a last-ditch challenge to MPs supporting the Civil Union Bill with a veiled warning that they will pay at the ballot box. In what the church concedes is an unprecedented move, an open letter will be read to congregations nationwide on Sunday, urging Catholics to note how MPs exercise their conscience vote today and vote accordingly...
Bishops turn up the heat on MPs NZ Herald 02.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=9001328 MPs say they have faced unparalleled lobbying on the Civil Union bill, which allows gay and heterosexual couples to form legally recognised "civil unions". The majority were from supporters of the bill, worried about the number of MPs indicating they might change their "yes" votes to "no"...
New Zealand family group opposes civil-union bill http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33786 Auckland, Dec. 02 (CNA/CWNews.com) - Family Life International, New Zealand has released a statement warning that the Civil Union Bill, which would give legal recognition to same-sex unions, has been rushed toward an early vote in order to take advantage of public ignorance about the practical results of the legislation...
Civil union by 10 votes, but foes defiant Dominion Post 03 December 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3116071a10,00.html
How MPs voted on the Civil Union Bill: http://www.maxim.org.nz/letter/cu_letter.php
In-depth information about the Civil Union Bill and the Relationships (Statutory References) Bill: http://www.maxim.org.nz/civilunions/index.php
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'NZ CATHOLIC'
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
From No. 201, November 28-December 11, 2004 ...
Killing of baby "tragic" but not euthanasia Wellington - The Catholic Church's bioethics centre, the Nathaniel Centre, says those who are disabled have the same right to life and protection as all others....
Waikato Catholics enraged by insult to Pope Hamilton - Catholics in the Waikato are enraged by a Waikato Times promotional banner picturing the Pope with the message "Go forth and fornicate"....
Capital stills to welcome warrior home Wellington - The capital stood silent on Armistice Day as the Unknown Warrior made his final journey through the streets; shops stopped trading and turned off their in-house music as a sign of respect, and there was an eerie quiet as the nation watched the return home, after 90 years on foreign soil, of this man who gave his life for his country....
Also in this issue:
NATIONAL New meeting place popular ... St Pius X 50th jubilee ... Team top at maths ... Good work rewarded ... ERO File
FEATURES Kiwi Catholic in Bhutan keeps a solitary faith ... Vatican Letter: No democracy in electing a pope ... Balfour church marks centenary ... Croats recall 100 years of mission ... Feilding parishioner dies close to 104th birthday ... Indian professor reports "healthy" flow of vocations ... Facilitators help clergy and laity to work together ... St Gerard's to mark saint's centenary
INTERNATIONAL Bethlehem TV channel covers all sides ... Iraqi bishop calls for support from Western Christians ... Bishops support rights of aliens ... Magazine discovers population implosion ... Mother speaks out ... Politicians and media accused ... The Pope: Scientific research must be detached ... Same-sex adoptions queried ... Bishop saved by statute ... No respect
OPINION Editorial: Seeing sex as God invented it ... Malcolm Evans' cartoon, ... Letters ... George Pell: The goal of Church management ... Ronald Rolheiser: Offering sanctuary for sadness ... Parish Diary: Power without accountability ... Others Say
REGULAR FEATURES Books, Monitor, Tape Deck, Clips, Net Scene, Think Page, The Doolans, God in the Garden, Cryptic Crossword, Caption Contest, Who Said?, 40 Years Ago, Dio. Diary, Holy Lives, That Word!, Kit's Corner, Photo Prayer, Scripture, Wit's End.
ADVERTISING FEATURE Accent Publications
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ADVENT/CHRISTMAS 2004
Mary, Empress of China (painting). North Catholic Cathedral, Beijing. http://tinyurl.com/5rsku
St Nicholas Centre -www.stnicholascentre.org An interdenominational site, about the real saint whose identity was appropriated by the mythical Santa Claus. It includes details of St Nicholas celebrations around the world, including Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills tomorrow, and Sinterklaas at the Dutch Embassy in Canberra on Sunday.
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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Nativity gets a reprieve -- Lord Mayor gets a serve NZ Herald 03.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=3&ObjectID=9001590 In these hyper-sensitive politically correct times, many Sydney retailers are opting for less religious Christmas symbols lest they offend non-Christian communities. Charlie Saliba was first to cop it this year. He holds the franchise for Oporto, a fast food outlet specialising in chicken burgers, at a mall in Sydney's Hornsby suburb. Saliba, a Catholic, had installed a small nativity scene -- depicting baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the three wise men and a shepherd -- in his store, but was told last week by the Oporto chain to remove it...
Outcry keeps "Christmas" lit up Denver Post (Colorado) 4 December 2004 http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~53~2573635,00.html After being inundated with complaints in recent days, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper reversed himself Thursday and said the words "Merry Christmas" would remain in lights above the City and County Building. He had pledged to remove the message next year in favor of the generic but inclusive "Happy Holidays."...
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FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Christians, Muslims and Jews stand together in defence of the family. http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2020 Doha (AsiaNews/Cwn) – [Around 150 representatives of Christianity, Islam and Judaism came together in Qatar over the last few days for an international conference in defence of the “natural family” and against the assimilation into this concept of other unions]
Between old fears and new hopes, celebrating Advent in Bethlehem http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2013 Bethlehem (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Never like this year has the time of Advent been so charged with hope and expectations in the birthplace of Jesus. People are tired of war and look with hope to the emergence of a new Palestinian leadership that might bring peace to the Holy Land...
Pope and Bartholomew I: may the Saints help us towards unity http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1992 Vatican City (AsiaNews) – In a solemn ecumenical ceremony John Paul II handed over the relics of Sts. Gregory Nazianzen and John Chrysostom to the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I. For the Pope, the gesture was a demonstration of ‘fraternity’ towards the Ecumenical Patriarch that shows that “there are no insurmountable problems in the Church of Christ”....
The Holy Grail: Fact or Fiction? Janice Bennett on the Legendary Cup of the Last Supper http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=62694 Littleton, Colorado, Nov. 28, 2004 (Zenit.Org).- The story of the Holy Grail has spawned numerous works of fiction and fantasy, including popular films. The truth about the actual whereabouts of the cup is less clear. One scholar, Janice Bennett, author of "St. Laurence and the Holy Grail" (Ignatius), believes that the cup's history can be traced from St. Peter's journey to Rome, to St. Laurence in the third century, and then to its final resting place in Spain...
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CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
MEDIA RELEASES
http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
Bishops call on NZ Catholics to take MPs Civil Union vote into account at next General Election (1 Dec 2004)
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Pell weighs in on 'politically correct' baptisms Centacare warns low-income families on credit card trap Pope endorses world ban on landmines US organises conference to lobby Vatican on religious freedom Caritas expresses solidarity with Palestinian people Changed times in the business of religion
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CATHOLICTV.NET
Video reports from the Media Office, Wellington Archdiocese
http://www.catholictv.net
The plight of AIDS sufferers. Sr Paula Brettkelly has worked with AIDS sufferers for over a decade. World Aids Day was on December 1. Since the disease came to light, millions throughout the world have suffered. Sr Paula talks with Louise Kelleher about their plight
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SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
This book can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan. Shelf number may differ.
********** (non-fiction) ********** 248.482 COL Between the rock and a hard place : being Catholic today, by Paul Collins. Sydney : ABC Books for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2004. Book review and commentary: http://www.eurekastreet.com.au/articles/0409hamilton2.html Publisher's note: "This is not an invective against the Church, but a deeply felt argument on behalf of the many Catholics who now feel disenfranchised. It encourages those holding on to a faith they love (often with gritted teeth) to keep going, and offers a concept of Catholicism through which they can still find deep meaning and stay connected to their Church..."
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"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for December 3, 2004 (the final one for this year) ... Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor on ecumenism; Mega-trends in global Catholicism; Revising sex abuse norms; The Holy See and the Legionaries of Christ; Diplomacy in the cause of religious freedom
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EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
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Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
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Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
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EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
******************************************************
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
****************************************************
CIVIL UNION BILL
Bishops call on NZ Catholics to take MPs Civil Union vote into account at next General Election Catholic Communications NZ. Media Release 1 Dec 2004 http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
NZ Catholic Bishops' Conference. Letter to the members of Parliament concerning the Civil Unions Bill (April 2004) http://www.catholic.org.nz/statements/0404civilunions.php
Catholics, Destiny staunch in their opposition to Bill Otago Daily Times Dec 3, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/5jnn8 New Zealand’s Roman Catholic bishops will not give up their fight against the Civil Union Bill, the Bishop of Dunedin, the Very Rev Colin Campbell, vowed last night...
Catholic threat to Civil Union Bill The Dominion Post 02 December 2004 http://stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3114981a10,00.html Catholic leaders have mounted a last-ditch challenge to MPs supporting the Civil Union Bill with a veiled warning that they will pay at the ballot box. In what the church concedes is an unprecedented move, an open letter will be read to congregations nationwide on Sunday, urging Catholics to note how MPs exercise their conscience vote today and vote accordingly...
Bishops turn up the heat on MPs NZ Herald 02.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=9001328 MPs say they have faced unparalleled lobbying on the Civil Union bill, which allows gay and heterosexual couples to form legally recognised "civil unions". The majority were from supporters of the bill, worried about the number of MPs indicating they might change their "yes" votes to "no"...
New Zealand family group opposes civil-union bill http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33786 Auckland, Dec. 02 (CNA/CWNews.com) - Family Life International, New Zealand has released a statement warning that the Civil Union Bill, which would give legal recognition to same-sex unions, has been rushed toward an early vote in order to take advantage of public ignorance about the practical results of the legislation...
Civil union by 10 votes, but foes defiant Dominion Post 03 December 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3116071a10,00.html
How MPs voted on the Civil Union Bill: http://www.maxim.org.nz/letter/cu_letter.php
In-depth information about the Civil Union Bill and the Relationships (Statutory References) Bill: http://www.maxim.org.nz/civilunions/index.php
*****************************************************
'NZ CATHOLIC'
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
From No. 201, November 28-December 11, 2004 ...
Killing of baby "tragic" but not euthanasia Wellington - The Catholic Church's bioethics centre, the Nathaniel Centre, says those who are disabled have the same right to life and protection as all others....
Waikato Catholics enraged by insult to Pope Hamilton - Catholics in the Waikato are enraged by a Waikato Times promotional banner picturing the Pope with the message "Go forth and fornicate"....
Capital stills to welcome warrior home Wellington - The capital stood silent on Armistice Day as the Unknown Warrior made his final journey through the streets; shops stopped trading and turned off their in-house music as a sign of respect, and there was an eerie quiet as the nation watched the return home, after 90 years on foreign soil, of this man who gave his life for his country....
Also in this issue:
NATIONAL New meeting place popular ... St Pius X 50th jubilee ... Team top at maths ... Good work rewarded ... ERO File
FEATURES Kiwi Catholic in Bhutan keeps a solitary faith ... Vatican Letter: No democracy in electing a pope ... Balfour church marks centenary ... Croats recall 100 years of mission ... Feilding parishioner dies close to 104th birthday ... Indian professor reports "healthy" flow of vocations ... Facilitators help clergy and laity to work together ... St Gerard's to mark saint's centenary
INTERNATIONAL Bethlehem TV channel covers all sides ... Iraqi bishop calls for support from Western Christians ... Bishops support rights of aliens ... Magazine discovers population implosion ... Mother speaks out ... Politicians and media accused ... The Pope: Scientific research must be detached ... Same-sex adoptions queried ... Bishop saved by statute ... No respect
OPINION Editorial: Seeing sex as God invented it ... Malcolm Evans' cartoon, ... Letters ... George Pell: The goal of Church management ... Ronald Rolheiser: Offering sanctuary for sadness ... Parish Diary: Power without accountability ... Others Say
REGULAR FEATURES Books, Monitor, Tape Deck, Clips, Net Scene, Think Page, The Doolans, God in the Garden, Cryptic Crossword, Caption Contest, Who Said?, 40 Years Ago, Dio. Diary, Holy Lives, That Word!, Kit's Corner, Photo Prayer, Scripture, Wit's End.
ADVERTISING FEATURE Accent Publications
******************************************************
ADVENT/CHRISTMAS 2004
Mary, Empress of China (painting). North Catholic Cathedral, Beijing. http://tinyurl.com/5rsku
St Nicholas Centre -www.stnicholascentre.org An interdenominational site, about the real saint whose identity was appropriated by the mythical Santa Claus. It includes details of St Nicholas celebrations around the world, including Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills tomorrow, and Sinterklaas at the Dutch Embassy in Canberra on Sunday.
******************************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Nativity gets a reprieve -- Lord Mayor gets a serve NZ Herald 03.12.04 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=3&ObjectID=9001590 In these hyper-sensitive politically correct times, many Sydney retailers are opting for less religious Christmas symbols lest they offend non-Christian communities. Charlie Saliba was first to cop it this year. He holds the franchise for Oporto, a fast food outlet specialising in chicken burgers, at a mall in Sydney's Hornsby suburb. Saliba, a Catholic, had installed a small nativity scene -- depicting baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the three wise men and a shepherd -- in his store, but was told last week by the Oporto chain to remove it...
Outcry keeps "Christmas" lit up Denver Post (Colorado) 4 December 2004 http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~53~2573635,00.html After being inundated with complaints in recent days, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper reversed himself Thursday and said the words "Merry Christmas" would remain in lights above the City and County Building. He had pledged to remove the message next year in favor of the generic but inclusive "Happy Holidays."...
******************************************************
FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Christians, Muslims and Jews stand together in defence of the family. http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2020 Doha (AsiaNews/Cwn) – [Around 150 representatives of Christianity, Islam and Judaism came together in Qatar over the last few days for an international conference in defence of the “natural family” and against the assimilation into this concept of other unions]
Between old fears and new hopes, celebrating Advent in Bethlehem http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=2013 Bethlehem (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Never like this year has the time of Advent been so charged with hope and expectations in the birthplace of Jesus. People are tired of war and look with hope to the emergence of a new Palestinian leadership that might bring peace to the Holy Land...
Pope and Bartholomew I: may the Saints help us towards unity http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1992 Vatican City (AsiaNews) – In a solemn ecumenical ceremony John Paul II handed over the relics of Sts. Gregory Nazianzen and John Chrysostom to the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I. For the Pope, the gesture was a demonstration of ‘fraternity’ towards the Ecumenical Patriarch that shows that “there are no insurmountable problems in the Church of Christ”....
The Holy Grail: Fact or Fiction? Janice Bennett on the Legendary Cup of the Last Supper http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=62694 Littleton, Colorado, Nov. 28, 2004 (Zenit.Org).- The story of the Holy Grail has spawned numerous works of fiction and fantasy, including popular films. The truth about the actual whereabouts of the cup is less clear. One scholar, Janice Bennett, author of "St. Laurence and the Holy Grail" (Ignatius), believes that the cup's history can be traced from St. Peter's journey to Rome, to St. Laurence in the third century, and then to its final resting place in Spain...
*****************************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
MEDIA RELEASES
http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
Bishops call on NZ Catholics to take MPs Civil Union vote into account at next General Election (1 Dec 2004)
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Pell weighs in on 'politically correct' baptisms Centacare warns low-income families on credit card trap Pope endorses world ban on landmines US organises conference to lobby Vatican on religious freedom Caritas expresses solidarity with Palestinian people Changed times in the business of religion
*********************************************
CATHOLICTV.NET
Video reports from the Media Office, Wellington Archdiocese
http://www.catholictv.net
The plight of AIDS sufferers. Sr Paula Brettkelly has worked with AIDS sufferers for over a decade. World Aids Day was on December 1. Since the disease came to light, millions throughout the world have suffered. Sr Paula talks with Louise Kelleher about their plight
***************************************************
SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
This book can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan. Shelf number may differ.
********** (non-fiction) ********** 248.482 COL Between the rock and a hard place : being Catholic today, by Paul Collins. Sydney : ABC Books for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2004. Book review and commentary: http://www.eurekastreet.com.au/articles/0409hamilton2.html Publisher's note: "This is not an invective against the Church, but a deeply felt argument on behalf of the many Catholics who now feel disenfranchised. It encourages those holding on to a faith they love (often with gritted teeth) to keep going, and offers a concept of Catholicism through which they can still find deep meaning and stay connected to their Church..."
********************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for December 3, 2004 (the final one for this year) ... Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor on ecumenism; Mega-trends in global Catholicism; Revising sex abuse norms; The Holy See and the Legionaries of Christ; Diplomacy in the cause of religious freedom
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
**************************************
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
*****************************************
EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
******************************************************
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
****************************************************
Sunday, November 28, 2004
******************************************************
ADVENT 2004
"Our Lady of the Sign" An Icon by Fr William McNichols http://www.puffin.creighton.edu/jesuit/andre/images/advent.gif
******************************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Tom Flannery Farmer, Central Otago identity (obituary) Otago Daily Times 20 Nov. 2004 http://tinyurl.com/43ntr Tom Flannery, a family man of great faith and a Central Otago identity, died in Alexandra recently. He was 85. A Poolburn farmer for many years, Mr Flannery was also a justice of the peace and, as a stalwart of the Catholic Church, was renowned for his community work...
School ruling angers parents http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,3109965a6009,00.html The Press (Chch) 27 November 2004 Sean Thomson thought he was a faithful, good-living Catholic man, until a job application was rejected partly because he was "living in sin". Yvonne Martin reports on a holy row...
Family angry over will Sunday Star Times 28 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/0,2106,3110949a6442,00.html Family and friends of an elderly woman who died, leaving her home to a Catholic priest, are outraged. Elizabeth Yeoman, 84, died last month, leaving Christchurch priest Father Raymond Schmack her house...
Faithful lungs may be at risk http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3105365a10,00.html The Press (Chch) 23 November 2004 A church service may be good for the soul, but is it damaging your lungs? A Dutch study has found that burning candles and incense inside a poorly ventilated church can produce high levels of fine airborne particles....
Destiny teens pledge no alcohol, drugs or sex before marriage NZPA 27 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3110092a11,00.html About 200 teenagers declared they would abstain from alcohol, drugs and sex before marriage at the launch of a Destiny Church programme in Auckland last night...
******************************************************
FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Brian O’Connor: “My story, a Christian in a Saudi jail” http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1976 Exclusive interview with Brian O’Connor, an Indian Protestant accused of evangelising activities and freed after an international campaign supported by AsiaNews...
Return of Relics to Rekindle Catholic-Orthodox Dialogue http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=62567 Vatican City, Nov. 25, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Theological dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches is expected to resume after the relics of Sts. Gregory Nazianzen and John Chrysostom are returned to the patriarch of Constantinople...
'Aggressive secularism' threat to freedom, says Ratzinger The Tablet (UK) http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/citw.cgi/past-00207November 2004 God is being pushed to the margins of society, thwarted by an "aggressive secular ideology", according to Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, in an interview in the Italian daily La Repubblica...
*****************************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Bishops propose abortion alternatives Catholic patients "denied access" to chaplains Church agencies back Queensland prisons report Catholics rebuild churches in Iraq despite ongoing violence Pope identifies Eucharist as the parish's 'beating heart' Irish missionary murdered in Kenya robbery
***************************************************
CHARLES II: THE POWER AND THE PASSION
TVNZ - TV One, Sunday 27 November 8:30 PM
In the final episode of this series, Titus Oates in collaboration with Lord Shaftsbury launch "the Popish Plot" with fatal consequences for the Catholics in the king's circle and for many underground priests. Charles dies, after converiotng to the Catholic faith, in the presecne of Father Huddlesstone who helped to conceal him when Charles was fugitive form Cromwell.
The BBC's summary of Episode Four (2 pages) http://www.bbc.co.uk/charles/episode4/index.shtml
The Catholic Encyclopedia's article on Father Huddleston ... http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07511a.htm
... and on Oates's Plot http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/11173c.htm
************************************
THE FAR EAST
The monthly magazine of the Australian and New Zealand province of St Columban's Mission Society
http://www.columban.org.au/tfe/tfe_current.htm
From the October issue ...
Editorial: Small is beautiful Henry Lawson (1867-1922), one of Australia’s early short story writers, wrote a ballad ‘When the world was wide.’ The title has always appealed to me and I have always felt that it applied to Columbans. This issue of the The Far East proclaims that the world is wide. The locale of the stories take in China, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand, Pakistan, Japan, Peru, Myanmar, Korea and the Philippines....
From the Director : But do they help the poor? In election campaigns many policies are presented for the benefit of society. How do we know which are the best ones? What criterion should we use to judge what is being proposed? From years of working in poor countries, the question Columbans ask is “Do they help the poor?”...
Women in Christian Mission. In July this year Sr Susan Smith rndm spoke at a Mission Conference in Melbourne and Sydney on the theme, The Story of Women in Christian Mission. She began her talks by explaining that the role of women in Christian mission is difficult to access because traditionally, histories of mission have been ‘his stories’ rather than ‘her stories....’
Disposable elderlies, by Paul McCartin On the train from Tokyo to Suwa, in Nagano Prefecture, I saw a signboard explaining the origin of the name of Obasute, a station near Nagano City. Obasute means ‘abandon old women.’ The signboard explained that many years ago the lord of the region ordered that all old people in his domain were to be thrown out of the home and abandoned. One man could not bear to abandon his elderly mother and decided to hide her....
Catechists are crucial, by Joseph Ramon Joseph Ramon tells of the Silver Jubilee of the Catechetical school in Edin, Myitkyina.
**************************************
SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan. Shelf numbers may differ.
********** (non-fiction) **********
362.7 WIL Mean streets, kind heart : the Father Chris Riley story, by Sue Williams. Pymble, N.S.W. : HarperCollins, 2003. Publisher's note: Australian streetkids are the forgotten underclass of society, an ever-increasing pool of children who are often abused, frequently in the clutches of drug dealers, and usually engaged in crime just to make enough money to stay alive. Their childhood dreams of a happy, loving future are lost forever. This book tells of Father Riley's faltering first steps towards helping such children, and his determination to pledge the rest of his life to giving them back their dreams. Throughout the triumphs and the tears is Father Riley's inimitable humour, his sense of fun, and the indomitable spirit that has entranced so many of the kids he's helped.
262.13 TOB Selecting the Pope : uncovering the mysteries of papal elections, by Greg Tobin. London : Robson, 2004. Publisher's note: Award-winning author Greg Tobin offers a compelling guide to what is sure to be one of the most important and headline-making events in modern history - the election of the next pope. 'Selecting the Pope' examines each rule of this secretive process and explores the rich history behind the conclave and the key issues that will shape the future of the Catholic Church.
********************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for November 26, 2004 ... The World Congress on Consecrated Life; Cardinal Martino receives the International Prize for Peace 2004; Debate over norms governing cases of priest sexual abuse reopens; the Paulist Fathers' American parish in Rome; the Church’s response to HIV/AIDS; Spanish cultural wars; Rocco Buttiglione comments on his rejection by the EU Commission; Mary Ann Glendon and the transmission of the faith to young generations; President of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences; Comments on decentralization
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
**************************************
Executive Secretary / Personal Assistant, Catholic Tribunal, Wellington. Details in 'Wel-com' November 2004 p.17, and from: The Catholic Tribunal, 22-30 Hill Street, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Tel: (04) 496 1727; fax: (04) 496 1726; e-mail: tribunal@wn.catholic.org.nz Applications close 30 November 2004
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
*****************************************
EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
******************************************************
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
****************************************************
ADVENT 2004
"Our Lady of the Sign" An Icon by Fr William McNichols http://www.puffin.creighton.edu/jesuit/andre/images/advent.gif
******************************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Tom Flannery Farmer, Central Otago identity (obituary) Otago Daily Times 20 Nov. 2004 http://tinyurl.com/43ntr Tom Flannery, a family man of great faith and a Central Otago identity, died in Alexandra recently. He was 85. A Poolburn farmer for many years, Mr Flannery was also a justice of the peace and, as a stalwart of the Catholic Church, was renowned for his community work...
School ruling angers parents http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,3109965a6009,00.html The Press (Chch) 27 November 2004 Sean Thomson thought he was a faithful, good-living Catholic man, until a job application was rejected partly because he was "living in sin". Yvonne Martin reports on a holy row...
Family angry over will Sunday Star Times 28 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/0,2106,3110949a6442,00.html Family and friends of an elderly woman who died, leaving her home to a Catholic priest, are outraged. Elizabeth Yeoman, 84, died last month, leaving Christchurch priest Father Raymond Schmack her house...
Faithful lungs may be at risk http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3105365a10,00.html The Press (Chch) 23 November 2004 A church service may be good for the soul, but is it damaging your lungs? A Dutch study has found that burning candles and incense inside a poorly ventilated church can produce high levels of fine airborne particles....
Destiny teens pledge no alcohol, drugs or sex before marriage NZPA 27 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3110092a11,00.html About 200 teenagers declared they would abstain from alcohol, drugs and sex before marriage at the launch of a Destiny Church programme in Auckland last night...
******************************************************
FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Brian O’Connor: “My story, a Christian in a Saudi jail” http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1976 Exclusive interview with Brian O’Connor, an Indian Protestant accused of evangelising activities and freed after an international campaign supported by AsiaNews...
Return of Relics to Rekindle Catholic-Orthodox Dialogue http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=62567 Vatican City, Nov. 25, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Theological dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches is expected to resume after the relics of Sts. Gregory Nazianzen and John Chrysostom are returned to the patriarch of Constantinople...
'Aggressive secularism' threat to freedom, says Ratzinger The Tablet (UK) http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/citw.cgi/past-00207November 2004 God is being pushed to the margins of society, thwarted by an "aggressive secular ideology", according to Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, in an interview in the Italian daily La Repubblica...
*****************************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Bishops propose abortion alternatives Catholic patients "denied access" to chaplains Church agencies back Queensland prisons report Catholics rebuild churches in Iraq despite ongoing violence Pope identifies Eucharist as the parish's 'beating heart' Irish missionary murdered in Kenya robbery
***************************************************
CHARLES II: THE POWER AND THE PASSION
TVNZ - TV One, Sunday 27 November 8:30 PM
In the final episode of this series, Titus Oates in collaboration with Lord Shaftsbury launch "the Popish Plot" with fatal consequences for the Catholics in the king's circle and for many underground priests. Charles dies, after converiotng to the Catholic faith, in the presecne of Father Huddlesstone who helped to conceal him when Charles was fugitive form Cromwell.
The BBC's summary of Episode Four (2 pages) http://www.bbc.co.uk/charles/episode4/index.shtml
The Catholic Encyclopedia's article on Father Huddleston ... http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07511a.htm
... and on Oates's Plot http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/11173c.htm
************************************
THE FAR EAST
The monthly magazine of the Australian and New Zealand province of St Columban's Mission Society
http://www.columban.org.au/tfe/tfe_current.htm
From the October issue ...
Editorial: Small is beautiful Henry Lawson (1867-1922), one of Australia’s early short story writers, wrote a ballad ‘When the world was wide.’ The title has always appealed to me and I have always felt that it applied to Columbans. This issue of the The Far East proclaims that the world is wide. The locale of the stories take in China, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand, Pakistan, Japan, Peru, Myanmar, Korea and the Philippines....
From the Director : But do they help the poor? In election campaigns many policies are presented for the benefit of society. How do we know which are the best ones? What criterion should we use to judge what is being proposed? From years of working in poor countries, the question Columbans ask is “Do they help the poor?”...
Women in Christian Mission. In July this year Sr Susan Smith rndm spoke at a Mission Conference in Melbourne and Sydney on the theme, The Story of Women in Christian Mission. She began her talks by explaining that the role of women in Christian mission is difficult to access because traditionally, histories of mission have been ‘his stories’ rather than ‘her stories....’
Disposable elderlies, by Paul McCartin On the train from Tokyo to Suwa, in Nagano Prefecture, I saw a signboard explaining the origin of the name of Obasute, a station near Nagano City. Obasute means ‘abandon old women.’ The signboard explained that many years ago the lord of the region ordered that all old people in his domain were to be thrown out of the home and abandoned. One man could not bear to abandon his elderly mother and decided to hide her....
Catechists are crucial, by Joseph Ramon Joseph Ramon tells of the Silver Jubilee of the Catechetical school in Edin, Myitkyina.
**************************************
SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan. Shelf numbers may differ.
********** (non-fiction) **********
362.7 WIL Mean streets, kind heart : the Father Chris Riley story, by Sue Williams. Pymble, N.S.W. : HarperCollins, 2003. Publisher's note: Australian streetkids are the forgotten underclass of society, an ever-increasing pool of children who are often abused, frequently in the clutches of drug dealers, and usually engaged in crime just to make enough money to stay alive. Their childhood dreams of a happy, loving future are lost forever. This book tells of Father Riley's faltering first steps towards helping such children, and his determination to pledge the rest of his life to giving them back their dreams. Throughout the triumphs and the tears is Father Riley's inimitable humour, his sense of fun, and the indomitable spirit that has entranced so many of the kids he's helped.
262.13 TOB Selecting the Pope : uncovering the mysteries of papal elections, by Greg Tobin. London : Robson, 2004. Publisher's note: Award-winning author Greg Tobin offers a compelling guide to what is sure to be one of the most important and headline-making events in modern history - the election of the next pope. 'Selecting the Pope' examines each rule of this secretive process and explores the rich history behind the conclave and the key issues that will shape the future of the Catholic Church.
********************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for November 26, 2004 ... The World Congress on Consecrated Life; Cardinal Martino receives the International Prize for Peace 2004; Debate over norms governing cases of priest sexual abuse reopens; the Paulist Fathers' American parish in Rome; the Church’s response to HIV/AIDS; Spanish cultural wars; Rocco Buttiglione comments on his rejection by the EU Commission; Mary Ann Glendon and the transmission of the faith to young generations; President of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences; Comments on decentralization
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
**************************************
Executive Secretary / Personal Assistant, Catholic Tribunal, Wellington. Details in 'Wel-com' November 2004 p.17, and from: The Catholic Tribunal, 22-30 Hill Street, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Tel: (04) 496 1727; fax: (04) 496 1726; e-mail: tribunal@wn.catholic.org.nz Applications close 30 November 2004
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Te Korowai Atawhai, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, Auckland. http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/auckland/offer_health.html Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 28 - Dec. 11 2004 p.19, and from Jan Nichols, Executive Manager, St Joseph's Mercy Hospice, PO Box 9911, Auckland. Tel: (09) 623-9757; e-mail: jann@mercy.co.nz
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
*****************************************
EVENTS
"Hearts Aflame" Catholic Summer School Sacred Heart Hostel, Hamilton, Friday 31st of December 2004 - Sunday January 9th 2005 http://heartsaflame.org.nz The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School offers young adults (18-35 years old) an opportunity to learn more about the teachings of the Church, through: A deepening of your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and celebration of the sacraments A discovery of the richness of Catholic spirituality and tradition. An experience of living a common life of prayer, service and recreation An introduction to theology and scripture An examination of some of the many issues facing the Church
******************************************************
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
****************************************************
Sunday, November 21, 2004
*****************************************
SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING
"Christ enthroned". An icon by Robert Lenz http://www.ctklutheranic.org/icon.html
Journey to New Life http://www.ake.quik.co.nz/termon/jnl165.html Commentaries on the Readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King and resources for liturgies, by Fr Bill Fletcher (Otahuhu)
*****************************************
'NZ CATHOLIC'
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
From No. 200, November 14-27, 2004 ....
NZ Iraqis fear for relatives in homeland Auckland - Iraqi Catholics in New Zealand are calling out "help" for their relatives and friends who are being tortured and killed in Iraq because they are Christians....
Secret book initiative surprises cardinal Wellington - A three-year secret led to a big surprise for Cardinal Tom Williams last month....
Screening method "seriously wrong" Wellington - A new method of screening laboratory-conceived human embryos for genetic conditions has been called "seriously wrong, under any circumstances" by a Catholic priest....
Also In Issue 200:
NATIONAL Marist Messenger 75 years old ... Bereavement teams aid grieving families ... Parents should become responsible for children, says drugs educator ... ERO File ... 120 years of education in Hamilton East ... New block in Palmerston North ... Awards will recognise teens with potential ... Christchurch priest gets Ukrainian title ... Indian theologian conducts Auckland seminars on liturgy
FEATURES Kindness to priests can mean a lot ... Parishioners' expectations now higher ... Personal holiness stressed by Pope ... Priestly contentment endures for decades ... Vatican Letter: New book explains social teaching ... Baradene musicians find Australian visit a rich experience... European trip was rewarding for St Mary's College group ... 104-year-old may be NZ's oldest Catholic ... Dorothy Coup - journalist with style and presence ... New journalist has sound qualifications ... Scholarship for young journalists ... Media can encourage dialogue between people ... Knights of the Southern Cross end eight-year undertaking ... Call for action against Israel ... Historical panels depict Christian Brothers' work
INTERNATIONAL Election leaves a question over Church's action ... Priests in Ireland look for changes ... Diseases spread by globalisation ... Sexual maturity needed ... Priest and scientist search for cure ... Aid agencies change attitude towards Africa ... Bishops ponder inclusive language ... Prayer has a "social sense", working for justice ... Violent clashes increase ... The Pope: Wealth no use in the grave ... Rosary beads used as fashion item ... Numbers up, ratio down ... Religion not private ... Blair not converting ... Chapel for gypsies
OPINION NZ's Catholic bishops on the Eucharist ... Ronald Rolheiser: Biblical anxiety ... From the Editor: Reflecting on the role of the media ... Malcolm Evans ... Letters
REGULAR FEATURES Think Page, Books, Monitor, Tape Deck, Clips, Cryptic Crossword, Caption Contest, Who Said?, 40 Years Ago, Dio. Diary, The Doolans, Question Box, Scripture, Holy Lives, That Word!, Kit's Corner, Photo Prayer, Wit's End.
***************************************
THE NELSON BABY CASE
Catholic Church comment on Nelson father's acquittal Catholic Communications NZ 19 November 2004 http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php “The verdict in the trial of the Nelson man acquitted of killing his disabled daughter has brought forth inappropriate comment from pro-euthanasia sources,” says Nathaniel Centre spokesperson, John Kleinsman...
Acquittal for man who admitted to killing baby Catholic World News Nov. 19 2004 http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33555 Richmond, New Zealand, Nov. 19 (CNA/CWNews.com) - Family Life International, New Zealand, has released a statement saying that the jury's verdict [in the case of a man who killed his brain-damaged baby daughter] negates the value of the dead girl's life and her right to live"...
Inquiry after baby case verdict The Dominion Post 20 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3102704a11,00.html The Children's Commissioner may hold a wide-ranging investigation into the deaths and harm suffered by disabled children, after a man was found not guilty of killing his baby...
Baby case not about mercy killing - lawyer NZPA 19 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3102285a11,00.html The case of a father found not guilty of the murder or manslaughter of his severely brain-damaged baby girl was not a case about mercy killing or euthanasia, the man's lawyer said today...
***************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Shrinking band of brothers moving on (photos) Otago Daily Times Nov 17, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/4yvao After 128 years, the Christian Brothers order is preparing to move out of the “Vatican” district of Rattray St, continuing a trend of sales of Catholic church property in the area ...
Truth about ‘The Tablet’ must be told (letter to the editor) Otago Daily Times Nov 19, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/498yg
Religion and the vote NZ Herald 20.11.2004 http://tinyurl.com/4zhjc Don Brash is the man who, when asked by North & South magazine if he believed there was a God, said: "If you mean, 'Do I believe there is a supernatural being with whom I can talk', then no." But Brash and his strategists must be wondering whether "moral values" and the evangelical Christian vote - so clearly influential in the American election - could have a similar effect here....
Old-time religion is good enough for some The Australian November 20, 2004 http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,11438470%255E28737\,00.html The fusion of religion and politics is gathering pace in Australia and the US after the election triumphs of John Howard and George W. Bush. But the extent of the trend and its implications for both countries are the subject of increasingly bitter debate on both sides of the Pacific...
**************************************
FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Human cloning, science’s dominion over life, by Lorenzo Fazzini http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1938 Scientists dream of ‘headless humans’ from whom they can remove tissues to treat the sick. As the UN gets ready to vote on human cloning, Prof Augusto Pessina, microbiologist at the Università di Milano, spoke to AsiaNews about the false myths of ‘therapeutic’ cloning and the economic interests that are behind the humanitarian emphasis of science ...
Call to Christians: Pilgrims, come to the Holy Land http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1940 Jerusalem (AsiaNews) -- "A call to all people of faith: Visit the Holy Land". This is the title of a document signed by representatives of different Christian denominations in Jerusalem this week, to encourage Christians around the world to resume visits to the Holy Sites...
Mass for slain aid worker Margaret Hassan http://www.cathnews.com/news/411/106.php Irish-born British aid worker Margaret Hassan, who is believed to have been killed by her captors in Iraq, was remembered last night Australian time at a special mass in a Catholic church in Kenmare in the southwest of Ireland...
African bishops come to the aid of Europe The Tablet (UK) http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/citw.cgi/past-00206 Plans for the Church in Europe to receive an influx of African clergy were drawn up at the climax of an historic conference of bishops, which announced Africa's arrival on the centre stage of the world Church...
It’s possible to repair a frayed relationship with the church. US Catholic Nov. 2004 http://www.uscatholic.org/2004/11/cov0411.htm Claire didn’t think of herself as Catholic, quite frankly, until she was in her 40s. When she stopped going to church, her parents didn’t object, and by the time she was out on her own, she had forgotten about the church altogether...
******************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
Media Releases
http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
Catholic Church comment on Nelson father's acquittal (19 November 2004) Dunedin Diocese sells Tablet Print (17 Nov 2004)
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Pope contact with Reagan helped end Cold War Pax Christi Australia call for end to Falluja violence Youth crusader warns on child sex trafficking ACU Senate mulls over Sydney Archdiocese rent determination 'Urgent' Catholic translation given priority over ecumenical texts Perth Archbishop says Rosary fad 'a problem for society'
**************************************
SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan.
*********** fiction ***********
The little flowers, by Nicola Thorne. Sutton : Severn House, 2004. Author's Website: http://www.nicolathorne.co.uk/coming.htm Summary: Pretty, feisty fifteen-year-old Andrea Mackintosh is used to a sophisticated lifestyle and visiting the cultural capitals of pre war Europe with her diplomat father. Then in 1942 she is suddenly plunged into the austere world of a convent boarding school to which she has been sent in order to escape the London blitz. Gradually Andrea is absorbed into the life of the convent which, with its diverse personalities, petty feuds, hilarious misadventures, and many undercurrents reflects the uncertainty and turbulence of the world outside.
*********** non-fiction **********
Rise, let us be on our way, by Pope John Paul II. London : Jonathan Cape, 2004. "Following the success of the international bestseller Crossing the Threshold of Hope, Pope John Paul II provides the world with a glimpse into his past in Rise, Let Us Be On Our Way. Chronicling the years he spent as a bishop and later archbishop in Krakow, Poland through his election as the first Polish Pope in 1978, he recounts everything from communist efforts to suppress the church in Poland to his efforts to adopt a new and more open style of pastoral ministry. With recollections on his life as well as his thoughts on the issues facing the world now, Pope John Paul II offers words of wisdom in this book that will appeal to people of any faith looking to strengthen their spirituality."
********************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for November 19, 2004
Looking again at who's in charge in the Vatican; Significant transfer of relics to the Patriarch of Constantinople; Fr. Timothy Radcliffe and the crisis of truthfulness; Cardinal Martini on Fr Bernard Lonergan; Conference on communion and solidarity between Africa and Europe; Cardinal Walter Kasper's "state of the union" address on ecumenism; The importance of Cardinal George as vice president of the U.S. Bishops' Conference.
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
**************************************
Presenters, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper 'NZ Catholic' wishes to employ skilled communicators to act as presenters for the paper at parish Masses. Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 14-27 2004 p.26, and from Dennis Augustine, Promotions and Advertising Manager, 'NZ Catholic', PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034; e-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Christian Blind Mission International: Office assistant (20 hours pw; two positions), Newmarket, Auckland http://www.cbmi.org/cbm_new_zealand.htm Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 31 - Nov. 13 2004 p.19, and from CBMI, tel. (09) 522 0902 Applications close 22 November 2004
Executive Secretary / Personal Assistant, Catholic Tribunal, Wellington. Details in 'Wel-com' November 2004 p.17, and from: The Catholic Tribunal, 22-30 Hill Street, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Tel: (04) 496 1727; fax: (04) 496 1726; e-mail: tribunal@wn.catholic.org.nz Applications close 30 November 2004
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
*****************************************
EVENTS
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING
"Christ enthroned". An icon by Robert Lenz http://www.ctklutheranic.org/icon.html
Journey to New Life http://www.ake.quik.co.nz/termon/jnl165.html Commentaries on the Readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King and resources for liturgies, by Fr Bill Fletcher (Otahuhu)
*****************************************
'NZ CATHOLIC'
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
From No. 200, November 14-27, 2004 ....
NZ Iraqis fear for relatives in homeland Auckland - Iraqi Catholics in New Zealand are calling out "help" for their relatives and friends who are being tortured and killed in Iraq because they are Christians....
Secret book initiative surprises cardinal Wellington - A three-year secret led to a big surprise for Cardinal Tom Williams last month....
Screening method "seriously wrong" Wellington - A new method of screening laboratory-conceived human embryos for genetic conditions has been called "seriously wrong, under any circumstances" by a Catholic priest....
Also In Issue 200:
NATIONAL Marist Messenger 75 years old ... Bereavement teams aid grieving families ... Parents should become responsible for children, says drugs educator ... ERO File ... 120 years of education in Hamilton East ... New block in Palmerston North ... Awards will recognise teens with potential ... Christchurch priest gets Ukrainian title ... Indian theologian conducts Auckland seminars on liturgy
FEATURES Kindness to priests can mean a lot ... Parishioners' expectations now higher ... Personal holiness stressed by Pope ... Priestly contentment endures for decades ... Vatican Letter: New book explains social teaching ... Baradene musicians find Australian visit a rich experience... European trip was rewarding for St Mary's College group ... 104-year-old may be NZ's oldest Catholic ... Dorothy Coup - journalist with style and presence ... New journalist has sound qualifications ... Scholarship for young journalists ... Media can encourage dialogue between people ... Knights of the Southern Cross end eight-year undertaking ... Call for action against Israel ... Historical panels depict Christian Brothers' work
INTERNATIONAL Election leaves a question over Church's action ... Priests in Ireland look for changes ... Diseases spread by globalisation ... Sexual maturity needed ... Priest and scientist search for cure ... Aid agencies change attitude towards Africa ... Bishops ponder inclusive language ... Prayer has a "social sense", working for justice ... Violent clashes increase ... The Pope: Wealth no use in the grave ... Rosary beads used as fashion item ... Numbers up, ratio down ... Religion not private ... Blair not converting ... Chapel for gypsies
OPINION NZ's Catholic bishops on the Eucharist ... Ronald Rolheiser: Biblical anxiety ... From the Editor: Reflecting on the role of the media ... Malcolm Evans ... Letters
REGULAR FEATURES Think Page, Books, Monitor, Tape Deck, Clips, Cryptic Crossword, Caption Contest, Who Said?, 40 Years Ago, Dio. Diary, The Doolans, Question Box, Scripture, Holy Lives, That Word!, Kit's Corner, Photo Prayer, Wit's End.
***************************************
THE NELSON BABY CASE
Catholic Church comment on Nelson father's acquittal Catholic Communications NZ 19 November 2004 http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php “The verdict in the trial of the Nelson man acquitted of killing his disabled daughter has brought forth inappropriate comment from pro-euthanasia sources,” says Nathaniel Centre spokesperson, John Kleinsman...
Acquittal for man who admitted to killing baby Catholic World News Nov. 19 2004 http://www.cwnews.com/news/viewstory.cfm?recnum=33555 Richmond, New Zealand, Nov. 19 (CNA/CWNews.com) - Family Life International, New Zealand, has released a statement saying that the jury's verdict [in the case of a man who killed his brain-damaged baby daughter] negates the value of the dead girl's life and her right to live"...
Inquiry after baby case verdict The Dominion Post 20 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3102704a11,00.html The Children's Commissioner may hold a wide-ranging investigation into the deaths and harm suffered by disabled children, after a man was found not guilty of killing his baby...
Baby case not about mercy killing - lawyer NZPA 19 November 2004 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3102285a11,00.html The case of a father found not guilty of the murder or manslaughter of his severely brain-damaged baby girl was not a case about mercy killing or euthanasia, the man's lawyer said today...
***************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Shrinking band of brothers moving on (photos) Otago Daily Times Nov 17, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/4yvao After 128 years, the Christian Brothers order is preparing to move out of the “Vatican” district of Rattray St, continuing a trend of sales of Catholic church property in the area ...
Truth about ‘The Tablet’ must be told (letter to the editor) Otago Daily Times Nov 19, 2004 http://tinyurl.com/498yg
Religion and the vote NZ Herald 20.11.2004 http://tinyurl.com/4zhjc Don Brash is the man who, when asked by North & South magazine if he believed there was a God, said: "If you mean, 'Do I believe there is a supernatural being with whom I can talk', then no." But Brash and his strategists must be wondering whether "moral values" and the evangelical Christian vote - so clearly influential in the American election - could have a similar effect here....
Old-time religion is good enough for some The Australian November 20, 2004 http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,11438470%255E28737\,00.html The fusion of religion and politics is gathering pace in Australia and the US after the election triumphs of John Howard and George W. Bush. But the extent of the trend and its implications for both countries are the subject of increasingly bitter debate on both sides of the Pacific...
**************************************
FROM THE OVERSEAS CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
Human cloning, science’s dominion over life, by Lorenzo Fazzini http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1938 Scientists dream of ‘headless humans’ from whom they can remove tissues to treat the sick. As the UN gets ready to vote on human cloning, Prof Augusto Pessina, microbiologist at the Università di Milano, spoke to AsiaNews about the false myths of ‘therapeutic’ cloning and the economic interests that are behind the humanitarian emphasis of science ...
Call to Christians: Pilgrims, come to the Holy Land http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1940 Jerusalem (AsiaNews) -- "A call to all people of faith: Visit the Holy Land". This is the title of a document signed by representatives of different Christian denominations in Jerusalem this week, to encourage Christians around the world to resume visits to the Holy Sites...
Mass for slain aid worker Margaret Hassan http://www.cathnews.com/news/411/106.php Irish-born British aid worker Margaret Hassan, who is believed to have been killed by her captors in Iraq, was remembered last night Australian time at a special mass in a Catholic church in Kenmare in the southwest of Ireland...
African bishops come to the aid of Europe The Tablet (UK) http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/citw.cgi/past-00206 Plans for the Church in Europe to receive an influx of African clergy were drawn up at the climax of an historic conference of bishops, which announced Africa's arrival on the centre stage of the world Church...
It’s possible to repair a frayed relationship with the church. US Catholic Nov. 2004 http://www.uscatholic.org/2004/11/cov0411.htm Claire didn’t think of herself as Catholic, quite frankly, until she was in her 40s. When she stopped going to church, her parents didn’t object, and by the time she was out on her own, she had forgotten about the church altogether...
******************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
Media Releases
http://www.cathcom.org.nz/media.php
Catholic Church comment on Nelson father's acquittal (19 November 2004) Dunedin Diocese sells Tablet Print (17 Nov 2004)
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Pope contact with Reagan helped end Cold War Pax Christi Australia call for end to Falluja violence Youth crusader warns on child sex trafficking ACU Senate mulls over Sydney Archdiocese rent determination 'Urgent' Catholic translation given priority over ecumenical texts Perth Archbishop says Rosary fad 'a problem for society'
**************************************
SUMMER READING FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at many public libraries, or requested via interloan.
*********** fiction ***********
The little flowers, by Nicola Thorne. Sutton : Severn House, 2004. Author's Website: http://www.nicolathorne.co.uk/coming.htm Summary: Pretty, feisty fifteen-year-old Andrea Mackintosh is used to a sophisticated lifestyle and visiting the cultural capitals of pre war Europe with her diplomat father. Then in 1942 she is suddenly plunged into the austere world of a convent boarding school to which she has been sent in order to escape the London blitz. Gradually Andrea is absorbed into the life of the convent which, with its diverse personalities, petty feuds, hilarious misadventures, and many undercurrents reflects the uncertainty and turbulence of the world outside.
*********** non-fiction **********
Rise, let us be on our way, by Pope John Paul II. London : Jonathan Cape, 2004. "Following the success of the international bestseller Crossing the Threshold of Hope, Pope John Paul II provides the world with a glimpse into his past in Rise, Let Us Be On Our Way. Chronicling the years he spent as a bishop and later archbishop in Krakow, Poland through his election as the first Polish Pope in 1978, he recounts everything from communist efforts to suppress the church in Poland to his efforts to adopt a new and more open style of pastoral ministry. With recollections on his life as well as his thoughts on the issues facing the world now, Pope John Paul II offers words of wisdom in this book that will appeal to people of any faith looking to strengthen their spirituality."
********************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
Summary of the column for November 19, 2004
Looking again at who's in charge in the Vatican; Significant transfer of relics to the Patriarch of Constantinople; Fr. Timothy Radcliffe and the crisis of truthfulness; Cardinal Martini on Fr Bernard Lonergan; Conference on communion and solidarity between Africa and Europe; Cardinal Walter Kasper's "state of the union" address on ecumenism; The importance of Cardinal George as vice president of the U.S. Bishops' Conference.
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
**************************************
Presenters, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper 'NZ Catholic' wishes to employ skilled communicators to act as presenters for the paper at parish Masses. Details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov. 14-27 2004 p.26, and from Dennis Augustine, Promotions and Advertising Manager, 'NZ Catholic', PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034; e-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Christian Blind Mission International: Office assistant (20 hours pw; two positions), Newmarket, Auckland http://www.cbmi.org/cbm_new_zealand.htm Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 31 - Nov. 13 2004 p.19, and from CBMI, tel. (09) 522 0902 Applications close 22 November 2004
Executive Secretary / Personal Assistant, Catholic Tribunal, Wellington. Details in 'Wel-com' November 2004 p.17, and from: The Catholic Tribunal, 22-30 Hill Street, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Tel: (04) 496 1727; fax: (04) 496 1726; e-mail: tribunal@wn.catholic.org.nz Applications close 30 November 2004
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
*****************************************
EVENTS
Parachute Music Festival Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Catholics@Parachute: The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
Sunday, November 14, 2004
***********************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Catholic Church sells Tablet press (photo)
Otago Daily Times 11 Nov. 2004
http://tinyurl.com/4vyuo
One of the country's oldest printing houses — responsible for 130 years
production of the Catholic newspaper, The Tablet — has been sold by the
Church to Christchurch family-owned Spectrum Print...
Catholic Education Office says UNESCO report into success of 1989
reforms of NZ's education system is flawed (full text)
NZCity 9 November 2004
http://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/default.asp?id=44803
There is a warning not to put too much stock in a UNESCO report on
education. The global study claims there is no way of knowing if the
1989 reforms of New Zealand's education system has been beneficial. It
says we lack minority input at Board of Trustee level. Catholic
Education Office Chief Executive Pat Lynch says the problem with the
report is that it has only taken a once-over-lightly look at New
Zealand. He says it did not even begin to compare today's system with
the old one and it is not an in-depth study of New Zealand and is
unbalanced. He says it is disappointing that an international report
would make these damning statements without taking a close look at what
is going on.
Biotech issues 'as NZ ages'
Stuff Business News 08 November 2004
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3089150a13,00.html
New Zealand will probably be faced with increasingly difficult decisions
about biotechnology as the population ages, a British expert says. Sandy
Thomas, director of the independent think-tank the Nuffield Council on
Bioethics, has been in New Zealand talking to government departments and
the Bioethics Council about personalised medicine...
************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
The papal message on the death of Yasser Arafat and speculation on its
implications are reported by the Catholic missionary news service
AsiaNews.it at: http://www.asianews.it/geo.php?l=en&geo=57
Pope Sees Beauty as a Means of Evangelization
Necessary to Make the Luminous Face of God Shine, He Says
http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=61679
Vatican City, Nov. 9, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Attending the Public Session of
the Pontifical Academies today, the Pope said that "the path of beauty"
is the "privileged itinerary for the encounter between the Christian
faith and the cultures of our time and a precious instrument for the
formation of the young generations"....
Study reveals church loss of credibility
http://www.cathnews.com/news/411/49.php
The findings of a major church-backed research project [in Australia]
suggest that the reputation of the Church is sinking faster than that of
the government, legal system, banks and media....
New Ordinance on Religions does not provide freedom, says the Archbishop
of Hue. "Pray for our Church. The government wants to control religious
sentiment
http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1848
Huê (AsiaNews) – The new Ordinance on Beliefs and Religions adopted by
the government of Vietnam does not satisfy Catholic Bishops. The new
rules do not grant the Church the freedom it needs to organise its own
affairs...
******************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Papal sympathy to Palestinians on Arafat death
Life Offices urge continued public debate on abortion
Pell says Islam could be the new communism
Vinnies and ACU organise learning for the homeless
Test results show student religious knowledge on the rise
Irish archbishop issues guidelines to keep funerals Christian
**************************************
CATHOLICTV.NET
Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre
http://www.catholictv.net
New video files:
The Wellington Archdiocesan Family Life Office is ten years old.
Family Life Office advisor Sue Devereux tells its story to Dave Ross ...
The Seasons of Advent is upon us. Prepare ye the Way of the Lord.
Archdiocesan Liturgy advisor, Fr. John Greally, explains ...
New Zealand now has it's own Unknown Warrior, brought back from the
battlefields of France. Highlights from the March through Wellington ...
**************************************
CARITAS AOTEAROA NZ
http://www.caritas.org.nz
Public Meeting: The State of Human Rights in Aceh
11 November, 2004: In May 2003, the Indonesian province of Aceh was
placed under Martial Law and some 50,000 Indonesian troops began an
offensive to crush the separatist Free Aceh Movement ( Gerakan Aceh
Merdeka or GAM). In the process, human rights groups report a wave of
killings and arrests of innocent civilians. Martial Law was lifted
earlier this year, but the troops remain and the situation is little
improved....
*************************************
TUI MOTU INTERISLANDS
An independent Catholic magazine
http://www.tuimotu.org
From the November issue ...
Editorial: Battle of the titans (full text)
"Battle of the Titans" is a somewhat melodramatic title: one at which
Hans Küng would instantly demur. It is chosen to set in contrast two
differing world-views of Roman Catholicism. Do we see the Catholic
Church as a basically inward-looking institution? Do we see it still as
the 'tempest-toss'd church' of the traditional hymn? ....
Also in the November issue:
Encounter With Hans Küng – Frank Hoffman
Vatican Hijacked By GE Lobby – Peter Murnane
Reflecting On Luke – Susan Smith
Celebrating Difference – Glynn Cardy
I Have A Dream – Humphrey O'Leary
**************************************
AT THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at public libraries in many places, or
requested via interloan. Non-fiction shelf numbers may vary from library
to library.
*******
(fiction)
*******
Miracle girl
Author: Scribner, Keith.
Publisher: New York : Riverhead Books, 2003.
Reviews: http://www.keithscribner.com/miraclegirl.html
Summary: A beautiful Vietnamese-American girl has been appearing in the
dreams of residents of Hudson City, and there are reports that injured
limbs, sinus headaches, and tonsillitis are clearing up all over town.
Raised on Watergate and Vietnam and nurtured on the materialism of the
eighties and nineties, John Quinn manages real estate for the Hudson
Catholic diocese, but he's a man of little faith and is certain the girl
is a fraud. As "miracle fever" sweeps the town, the bishop directs Quinn
to investigate ...
**********
(non-fiction)
**********
925.51
The seashell on the mountaintop : a story of science, sainthood, and the
humble genius who discovered a new history of the earth
Author: Cutler, Alan.
Publisher: London : Heinemann, 2003.
Review: http://www.curledup.com/seashell.htm
The Catholic Encyclopedia. "Nicolaus Steno"
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14286a.htm
Notes: Dubbed "the founder of modern geology", danish scientist Nicolaus
Steno (a.k.a. Niels Stensen, 1638-1686) was the first man to suggest
that the existence of fossils demanded a much longer history for the
Earth than the roughly 6000 years suggested by the Bible. Steno's work
was ignored for over a century: he himself dropped his geological
studies, converted to Catholicism and later became a bishop; in 1988 he
was beatified by Pope John Paul I.
**************************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
A weekly column in the National Catholic Reporter by the paper's
full-time Vatican correspondent John L. Allen
Summary of the column for November 12, 2004:
Post election water-cooler talk; Six years after the Synod for America;
The Vatican in the Italian press, a cautionary tale; Preparatory
document for the Bishops' Synod on the Eucharist; Conference on
palliative care; Focolare conference for communicators; Dialogue with Islam
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in
the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank
page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist
for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over
the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing
strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to
and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission
of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is
responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning
and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this
Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat
McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email
catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
**************************************
Presenters, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
'NZ Catholic' wishes to employ skilled communicators to act as
presenters for the paper at parish Masses. Details in 'NZ Catholic'
Nov. 14-27 2004 p.26, and from Dennis Augustine, Promotions and
Advertising Manager, 'NZ Catholic', PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland
1034; e-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Edmund Rice Network, New Zealand. National Co-ordinator
http://www.edmundrice.org.nz
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 17-30 2004 p.23 and from Br Paul
Robertson, St Peter's College, mountain Rd., Auckland 1003. Tel (09) 524
8108 ext 313; e-mail: admin@st-peters.school.nz Applications close 15
November 2004
Christian Blind Mission International: Office assistant (20 hours pw;
two positions), Newmarket, Auckland
http://www.cbmi.org/cbm_new_zealand.htm
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 31 - Nov. 13 2004 p.19, and from CBMI,
tel. (09) 522 0902 Applications close 22 November 2004
*****************************************
EVENTS
Parachute Music Festival
Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary
weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp,
Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website:
http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Parachute Music New Zealand:
http://www.parachutemusic.com
Catholics@Parachute:
The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music
festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young
Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a
Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Catholic Church sells Tablet press (photo)
Otago Daily Times 11 Nov. 2004
http://tinyurl.com/4vyuo
One of the country's oldest printing houses — responsible for 130 years
production of the Catholic newspaper, The Tablet — has been sold by the
Church to Christchurch family-owned Spectrum Print...
Catholic Education Office says UNESCO report into success of 1989
reforms of NZ's education system is flawed (full text)
NZCity 9 November 2004
http://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/default.asp?id=44803
There is a warning not to put too much stock in a UNESCO report on
education. The global study claims there is no way of knowing if the
1989 reforms of New Zealand's education system has been beneficial. It
says we lack minority input at Board of Trustee level. Catholic
Education Office Chief Executive Pat Lynch says the problem with the
report is that it has only taken a once-over-lightly look at New
Zealand. He says it did not even begin to compare today's system with
the old one and it is not an in-depth study of New Zealand and is
unbalanced. He says it is disappointing that an international report
would make these damning statements without taking a close look at what
is going on.
Biotech issues 'as NZ ages'
Stuff Business News 08 November 2004
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3089150a13,00.html
New Zealand will probably be faced with increasingly difficult decisions
about biotechnology as the population ages, a British expert says. Sandy
Thomas, director of the independent think-tank the Nuffield Council on
Bioethics, has been in New Zealand talking to government departments and
the Bioethics Council about personalised medicine...
************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS & NEWS AGENCIES
The papal message on the death of Yasser Arafat and speculation on its
implications are reported by the Catholic missionary news service
AsiaNews.it at: http://www.asianews.it/geo.php?l=en&geo=57
Pope Sees Beauty as a Means of Evangelization
Necessary to Make the Luminous Face of God Shine, He Says
http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=61679
Vatican City, Nov. 9, 2004 (Zenit.org).- Attending the Public Session of
the Pontifical Academies today, the Pope said that "the path of beauty"
is the "privileged itinerary for the encounter between the Christian
faith and the cultures of our time and a precious instrument for the
formation of the young generations"....
Study reveals church loss of credibility
http://www.cathnews.com/news/411/49.php
The findings of a major church-backed research project [in Australia]
suggest that the reputation of the Church is sinking faster than that of
the government, legal system, banks and media....
New Ordinance on Religions does not provide freedom, says the Archbishop
of Hue. "Pray for our Church. The government wants to control religious
sentiment
http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=1848
Huê (AsiaNews) – The new Ordinance on Beliefs and Religions adopted by
the government of Vietnam does not satisfy Catholic Bishops. The new
rules do not grant the Church the freedom it needs to organise its own
affairs...
******************************************
CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS NZ
International News
http://www.cathcom.org.nz
Papal sympathy to Palestinians on Arafat death
Life Offices urge continued public debate on abortion
Pell says Islam could be the new communism
Vinnies and ACU organise learning for the homeless
Test results show student religious knowledge on the rise
Irish archbishop issues guidelines to keep funerals Christian
**************************************
CATHOLICTV.NET
Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre
http://www.catholictv.net
New video files:
The Wellington Archdiocesan Family Life Office is ten years old.
Family Life Office advisor Sue Devereux tells its story to Dave Ross ...
The Seasons of Advent is upon us. Prepare ye the Way of the Lord.
Archdiocesan Liturgy advisor, Fr. John Greally, explains ...
New Zealand now has it's own Unknown Warrior, brought back from the
battlefields of France. Highlights from the March through Wellington ...
**************************************
CARITAS AOTEAROA NZ
http://www.caritas.org.nz
Public Meeting: The State of Human Rights in Aceh
11 November, 2004: In May 2003, the Indonesian province of Aceh was
placed under Martial Law and some 50,000 Indonesian troops began an
offensive to crush the separatist Free Aceh Movement ( Gerakan Aceh
Merdeka or GAM). In the process, human rights groups report a wave of
killings and arrests of innocent civilians. Martial Law was lifted
earlier this year, but the troops remain and the situation is little
improved....
*************************************
TUI MOTU INTERISLANDS
An independent Catholic magazine
http://www.tuimotu.org
From the November issue ...
Editorial: Battle of the titans (full text)
"Battle of the Titans" is a somewhat melodramatic title: one at which
Hans Küng would instantly demur. It is chosen to set in contrast two
differing world-views of Roman Catholicism. Do we see the Catholic
Church as a basically inward-looking institution? Do we see it still as
the 'tempest-toss'd church' of the traditional hymn? ....
Also in the November issue:
Encounter With Hans Küng – Frank Hoffman
Vatican Hijacked By GE Lobby – Peter Murnane
Reflecting On Luke – Susan Smith
Celebrating Difference – Glynn Cardy
I Have A Dream – Humphrey O'Leary
**************************************
AT THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
These books can be borrowed at public libraries in many places, or
requested via interloan. Non-fiction shelf numbers may vary from library
to library.
*******
(fiction)
*******
Miracle girl
Author: Scribner, Keith.
Publisher: New York : Riverhead Books, 2003.
Reviews: http://www.keithscribner.com/miraclegirl.html
Summary: A beautiful Vietnamese-American girl has been appearing in the
dreams of residents of Hudson City, and there are reports that injured
limbs, sinus headaches, and tonsillitis are clearing up all over town.
Raised on Watergate and Vietnam and nurtured on the materialism of the
eighties and nineties, John Quinn manages real estate for the Hudson
Catholic diocese, but he's a man of little faith and is certain the girl
is a fraud. As "miracle fever" sweeps the town, the bishop directs Quinn
to investigate ...
**********
(non-fiction)
**********
925.51
The seashell on the mountaintop : a story of science, sainthood, and the
humble genius who discovered a new history of the earth
Author: Cutler, Alan.
Publisher: London : Heinemann, 2003.
Review: http://www.curledup.com/seashell.htm
The Catholic Encyclopedia. "Nicolaus Steno"
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14286a.htm
Notes: Dubbed "the founder of modern geology", danish scientist Nicolaus
Steno (a.k.a. Niels Stensen, 1638-1686) was the first man to suggest
that the existence of fossils demanded a much longer history for the
Earth than the roughly 6000 years suggested by the Bible. Steno's work
was ignored for over a century: he himself dropped his geological
studies, converted to Catholicism and later became a bishop; in 1988 he
was beatified by Pope John Paul I.
**************************************************
"THE WORD FROM ROME"
http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/
A weekly column in the National Catholic Reporter by the paper's
full-time Vatican correspondent John L. Allen
Summary of the column for November 12, 2004:
Post election water-cooler talk; Six years after the Synod for America;
The Vatican in the Italian press, a cautionary tale; Preparatory
document for the Bishops' Synod on the Eucharist; Conference on
palliative care; Focolare conference for communicators; Dialogue with Islam
*********************************************************
EMPLOYMENT
[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in
the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]
[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank
page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]
*****************************************
Assistant Editor, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
The national Catholic newspaper 'NZ Catholic' seeks a senior journalist
for the position of assistant editor, with the prospect of taking over
the managing editorship of this award-winning publication.
Besides a strong newspaper background, and writing and subbing
strengths, the successful applicant will have a personal commitment to
and knowledge of the Catholic Church, and an enthusiasm for the mission
of the Catholic press.
The managing editor, who reports to a board of management, is
responsible for NZ Catholic¹s editorial direction, strategic planning
and business operations. Leadership and management skills are required.
A competitive salary, including superannuation, is provided for this
Auckland-based position.
Inquiries and applications should be made to the managing editor, Pat
McCarthy, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland; tel. (09) 360-3069; email
catholic@iconz.co.nz Applications close December 6, 2004.
**************************************
Presenters, 'NZ Catholic' newspaper
'NZ Catholic' wishes to employ skilled communicators to act as
presenters for the paper at parish Masses. Details in 'NZ Catholic'
Nov. 14-27 2004 p.26, and from Dennis Augustine, Promotions and
Advertising Manager, 'NZ Catholic', PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland
1034; e-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Edmund Rice Network, New Zealand. National Co-ordinator
http://www.edmundrice.org.nz
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 17-30 2004 p.23 and from Br Paul
Robertson, St Peter's College, mountain Rd., Auckland 1003. Tel (09) 524
8108 ext 313; e-mail: admin@st-peters.school.nz Applications close 15
November 2004
Christian Blind Mission International: Office assistant (20 hours pw;
two positions), Newmarket, Auckland
http://www.cbmi.org/cbm_new_zealand.htm
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Oct. 31 - Nov. 13 2004 p.19, and from CBMI,
tel. (09) 522 0902 Applications close 22 November 2004
*****************************************
EVENTS
Parachute Music Festival
Mystery Creek, Hamilton January 28-31 2005
The annual Christian music festival, takes place on Auckland Anniversary
weekend (last weekend of January) at Totara Springs Christian Camp,
Matamata.
Parachute Festival Website:
http://websites.parachutemusic.com/festival/2005/default_noflash.asp
Parachute Music New Zealand:
http://www.parachutemusic.com
Catholics@Parachute:
The young Catholic presence at Australasia's biggest Christian music
festival is growing by the year.. The National Council for Young
Catholics coordinates the bulk purchase of tickets and the set-up of a
Catholic village on site. Contact Jamie Cox: jamiec@cdh.org.nz
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