MASS TIMES

Auckland: http://catholic.org/newzealand/auckland/mainparish.htm Hamilton: http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/hamilton/mass.htm Palmerston North: http://www.catholic.org.nz/palmerston (Palmerston North diocese only has a single-page Website with contact details). Wellington: http://www.catholic.org.nz/wellington/wellington/Clergy/Parishes/parishes.html Christchurch: http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/christchurch (click 'Parishes' link) Dunedin: http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~mpeyroux/masstimes.htm (or possibly on the new diocesan Website at http://www.catholic.org.nz/dunedin )

VACATION E-MAILS

If you are going away this Christmas it may be useful to know that you can turn off messages from the 'kiwicath' forum without quitting altogether. To do this, you are welcome to write to me directly at leon@xtra.co.nz , and I will fix it for you (don't forget to write again when you come back, so you can start getting e-mails again) , or ...

* Open the 'kiwicath' home page at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kiwicath/ and click on "Edit My Membership" in the right-hand column

* On the "Membership" page, scroll down to "Message Delivery". Click in the circle beside "No e-mail"

* Go down to the bottom of the page and click the "Save changes" button.

On the other hand, if you really want to quit 'kiwicath' altogether send a message to: kiwicath-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

BISHOP POMPALLIER

In mid-January 2002 the remains of New Zealand's first Catholic bishop, Jean-Baptiste Pompallier (1802-1871), are to be re-interred in this country. The New Zealand Catholic bishops' Website has a special feature on the life and times of Bishop Pompallier, the historic buildings associated with him, and the ceremonies of the return and reinterment at Hata Maria Church, Motuti, Northland. At http://www.catholic.org.nz click the 'Pompallier' link (bottom left).

WORLD DAY OF PEACE, JAN 1 2001

Pope John Paul writes a special message for this annual day of prayer for world peace. The message for the coming Day, "No peace without Justice. No Justice without forgiveness", is on the NZ bishops' Website. At http://www.catholic.org.nz click 'News', 'What's New' and the link is at the top of the page.

Written "in the shadow of the dramatic events of 11 September last", the message affirms that the foundation of true peace is justice, "completed by the forgiveness which heals and rebuilds troubled human relations in circumstances great and small ... Forgiveness is in no way opposed to justice, as if to forgive meant to overlook the need to right the wrong done. It is rather the fullness of justice, leading to that tranquillity of order which is much more than a fragile and temporary cessation of hostilities, involving the deepest healing of the wounds which fester in human hearts. Justice and forgiveness are both essential to such healing...."

LORD OF THE RINGS, PART 1: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING

http://decentfilms.com/reviews/lordoftherings1.html " There can be no more fitting tribute to Peter Jackson’s The Fellowship of the Ring than to apply to it the words with which C. S. Lewis acclaimed the original book when Tolkien first wrote it: “Here are beauties that pierce like swords or burn like cold iron; here is a [film] that will break your heart" .....”

The Decent Films reviewer cautions that scenes in the film are likely to be frightening for children under the age of ten, and Nat made a similar point. On the other hand, there's another way of looking at this aspect of the stories. This is from a review of the books (not the film): "A fearful dart across the Shire ends with a roaring fire and mushroom casserole at Farmer Maggot's. The Old Man Willow adventure ends with baths and thick mattresses at Tom Bombadil's. A brush with Black Riders is resolved by a good dinner at the Prancing Pony. The Dead Marshes, then stewed rabbit in Ithilien. Pippin's flight through war-torn Gondor, then cheese and wrinkly apples in the buttery at Minas Tirith. A stripe of hardship, flight, terror, is always followed by one of safety, plenty, hospitality. Scary, safe again. Scary, safe again...."

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

Catholic Enquiry Centre Newsletter. October 2001 http://www.catholic.org.nz/cec (This new Website's Newsletter is the successor to the evangelisation magazine 'EV 2000' which ceased publication last year.)

* Editorial: New York, New York * "I Took Communion for the First Time " * The Passing of Monsignor Maurice Ryan, co-founder of the Catholic Enquiry Centre * London Enquiry Centre: new publications * Our Catholic schools - navigators of hope. * Inward Mail of Late (brief accounts of the writers' journeys of faith) * Meet Moira Christenhusz, keeper of the records at CEC * Evangelisation News from home and abroad

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

"The quiet rebirth of Catholic England : The Establishment has been rapidly transformed, but no one has noticed" The Times (UK) http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,248-2001590523,00.html “As English is the natural tongue, so Protestantism is the intellectual and moral language of the body politic,” said John Henry Newman in his Lectures on the Present Position of Catholics in England. Not now, it isn’t. The great Victorian cardinal would not be turning in his grave, since he himself converted to Rome. But he would surely be surprised that, of our three main party leaders, two-and-a-half are Roman Catholic. And what is even more astonishing is that no one seems either to notice or care .........

EMPLOYMENT

(Vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies )

Parish Pastoral Worker, Immaculate Conception Parish, Stratford, Taranaki Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the parish secretary, stratcath@xtra.co.nz

L'Arche New Zealand: full-time live-in assistant, Paraparaumu (north-west of Wellington) Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from Angela Capes, angela@larche.org.nz

Prison Chaplain, Paremoremo Details in 'NZ Catholic' 16 December 2001 p.21 and from Eric Allen, Director, Catholic Family and Community Services, tel (09) 378 9650

Part-time Youth Coordinator, Society of St Vincent de Paul A salaried position promoting the Society to children and young adults throughout the central North Island. Details in 'NZ Catholic' 16 December 2001 and from Society of St Vincent de Paul, PO Box 529 Rotorua. Applications close 12 January 2002

Diocesan Manager, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North The appointee will be responsible for all the administration functions of the diocese. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.20 and in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the Bishops' Office, Private Bag,11-012, Palmerston north. Tel (06) 356 1980. Applications close 22 January 2002

Dear friends,

In this weekend's 'NZ Catholic' newspaper its Internet columnist Paul Freedman reports that he looked for holiday Mass times on the diocesan Websites, with mixed results. I decided to have a go, and here's the list, which I will repeat in next week's News & Notes, the last one for this year.

Auckland:
http://catholic.org/newzealand/auckland/mainparish.htm
Hamilton:
http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/hamilton/mass.htm
Palmerston North:
Palmerston North diocese only has a single page Website with contact
details.
Wellington:
http://www.catholic.org.nz/wellington/wellington/Clergy/Parishes/parishes.html
Christchurch:
http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/christchurch (click 'Parishes' link)
Dunedin:
http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~mpeyroux/masstimes.htm

God bless,
Mike Leon
'kiwicath' forum manager

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

St Vincent de Paul Society Newsletter. Summer/December 2001 http://www.svdp.org.nz/society_news/index.asp

Face of the volunteer continually changing ... Shop managers meet .... National Council seeking a qualified spiritual adviser ...... Hastings considers school scholarships ... National Training officer approved ... Government's tax discussion documents labelled "frightening" ... Nat. Council to write to WINZ about its polices ... News of the Conferences... Young Vinnies news and articles ... Vincentians visit Sri Lankan border areas ... the Kaiwharawhara powder magazine and its Vincentian designer ... Obituaries: Jean Whitnall, Joan Clark

'NZ Catholic' No 127, December 16, 2001 http://catholic.org.nz/cathcom/press/nzc/front.html

'Church explores cut-price scheme for electricity' An effort is under way to use the muscle of Church agencies and institutions to get a better deal on electricity prices...

'French team to make television documentary on Bishop Pompallier ' Two members of a French film production house have been in New Zealand this month preparing for the return to New Zealand of Bishop Pompallier's remains. ...

'Programme helps youth affirm faith ' The Odyssey Experience, designed to help young adults deepen their Catholic faith, has been test-run in the Wellington archdiocese with great success....

>From the 'Think Page ' for young adults: "What am I here for?" Celebrating a birthday, my radiant wife and I went out for tea to a cute little Italian/Greek café. We got to know the hard-case waiter, who was originally from Yorkshire, and on a perpetual OE around the world. During our last conversation, I asked him if he had thought about what his life is for? His response perhaps typifies the state of people living a comfortable, three-meals-a-day-with-snacks-in-between, "First World" lifestyle: "I try not to think too deeply about things like that.".........

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

'Lifestyle pressures at heart of birthrate fall ' NZ Herald 12 December 2001 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=233404 New Zealand's birthrate is falling as money and time pressures force people to keep their families small. The average number of children for New Zealand women is now two, compared with 2.09 in 1992, says Statistics New Zealand [Includes comment by Catholic Communications Director Lyndsay Freer] ......

'Going eight Rounds for the good of the country (photo)' http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=233403 As NZ's birthrate falls, Rebecca Walsh talks to a couple who have done their bit - four times the average, in fact. While New Zealand women have an average of two children, Helena and Rob Round bucked the trend and produced eight..........

'Grieving mates will not let murderers win ' NZ Herald 14 Dec. 2001 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=233872 A hint of wartime spirit swelled among more than 20 Panmure RSA veterans, friends and family as they went to their second funeral service this week. The group, travelling on a free bus provided by Stagecoach, were on their way to join about 600 people gathered at St Joseph and St Joachim Catholic Church in Otahuhu yesterday to farewell murdered RSA president Bill Absolum......

'Special lessons teach spirit of Christmas ' Otago Daily Times 12 Dec 2001 (photo) http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=12Dec2001&obje\ ct=NAH1281217ES&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial Christmas is about giving not receiving, and a Dunedin school is having a special lesson in giving. The St Francis Xavier School junior class raised funds and then bought children's presents to donate to Catholic Support Services.........

'Trio's long service honoured ' Otago Daily Times 15 December http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=15Dec2001&obje\ ct=NCG25D2643EC&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial Three Dunedin men have been awarded Orders of Merit by Paralympics New Zealand for the long service they have given to sports for the disabled. It was a Catholic priest who instigated a sporting association for the physically disabled in New Zealand. The late Fr Leo Close had represented Ireland in the javelin, shot put and discus in the first two Paralympics, in Rome (1960) and Tokyo (1964)........

'Lifetime of service from caring Christian Brother ' Otago Daily Times 15 December 2001 http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=15Dec2001&obje\ ct=N9L48E3527IR&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial Behind a somewhat imposing exterior, Brother Patrick Aidan McManus was genuinely kind, compassionate and understanding, his colleagues recall. The former principal of the Christian Brothers High School in Dunedin and St Kevins College, Oamaru, rose to become Province Leader of the Christian Brothers in New Zealand for 12 years before he stepped back to lighter duties..........

NZ Council of Christian Social Services : Pressure Is On Families In Lead Up To Christmas Scoop 10 December 2001 http://www.scoop.co.nz/archive/scoop/stories/47/4c/200112101115.a3639692.html Families using foodbanks will be under extreme pressure to go further into debt this Christmas, according to research released today. The Poverty Indicator Project, run by the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services, shows that of the 2100 households going to the foodbanks included in the Project, over half are in debt.....

EMPLOYMENT

(Vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies )

Parish Pastoral Worker, Immaculate Conception Parish, Stratford, Taranaki Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the parish secretary, stratcath@xtra.co.nz

L'Arche New Zealand: full-time live-in assistant, Paraparaumu (north-west of Wellington) Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from Angela Capes, angela@larche.org.nz

Prison Chaplain, Paremoremo Details in 'NZ Catholic' 16 December 2001 p.21 and from Eric Allen, Director, Catholic Family and Community Services, tel (09) 378 9650

Part-time Youth Coordinator, Society of St Vincent de Paul A salaried position promoting the Society to children and young adults throughout the central North Island. Details in 'NZ Catholic' 16 December 2001 and from Society of St Vincent de Paul, PO Box 529 Rotorua. Applications close 12 January 2002

Diocesan Manager, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North The appointee will be responsible for all the administration functions of the diocese. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.20 and in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the Bishops' Office, Private Bag 11-012, Palmerston north. Tel (06) 356 1980. Applications close 22 January 2002

***********************************
"The wolf lives with the lamb,
the panther lies down with the kid,
calf and lion cub feed together
with a little boy to lead them .....
They do no hurt, no harm
on all my holy mountain,
for the country is filled with the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters swell the sea."
(The prophecy of Isaiah 11:6, 9)
*********************************

"The 20th century, marked by war and bloodshed, closed with much hope
for justice and peace. However, the tragic events of September 11 have
sharply broken those hopeful expectations. But we must not resign
ourselves. Peace is a gift of God and, at the same time, the fruit of
the daily efforts of people of goodwill." (Pope John Paul II)

Dear friends,

Pope John Paul has asked all Catholics to observe Friday 14 December as
a day of fasting, prayer and alms-giving for world peace. He wishes the
fast to be "a cry of hearts to the Lord, because without his help it
will not be possible to find a solution to the tragic situation now
facing the world." The request was inspired by the terrorist attacks in
the United States and the subsequent war in Afghanistan, but the
tormented populations of Jesus' own homeland are equally in every
Christian's mind at present.

Some background information on Christian fasting and pastoral guidelines
for the Day are here:
http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=13786

In brief, all Catholics are invited to participate in the day of fasting
of their own free will - "children, who willingly make sacrifices to
help other poor children; young people, who are especially sensitive to
the cause of justice and peace; all adults, excluding the sick but
including the elderly" - according to local custom: eating only one
meal, or taking only bread and water, or waiting until sundown before
eating.

"It will be the responsibility of the Bishop to determine a simple and
effective way of placing whatever is saved through fasting at the
disposal of the poor, especially those who at present are suffering the
consequences of terrorism and war." In this connection please keep in
mind the continuing Caritas Appeal for Afghan refugee relief (details at
http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/USA_&_Afghanistan/afghanistan_proposal_summary.h\
tm#Appeal
)
and your local food bank (food banks have collection bins in the larger
supermarkets).

John Paul II also proposes that the fast should be made in conjunction
with a pilgrimage to places designated by the bishops between Dec. 14
and Jan. 23, the day before an assembly of representatives of the
world's religions at Assisi.

Every best wish and all God's blessings,
Mike Leon
'kiwicath' forum manager

CATHOLIC SUPPLIES, 1918-

In the half-hour "Spectrum" documentary series on National Radio at
12:30 this afternoon, there'll be a programme about Wellington's
venerable Catholic bookshop 'Catholic Supplies', in business since 1918
and still going strong. The Spectrum documentaries are re-broadcast in
the evening during the following week, but I can't recall on which day.
Can anyone advise?

AFGHANISTAN: RECONCILIATION AND REFUGEE AID

Current links on the bishops' What's New page at
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html include ...

War Reactions
Five weeks after Islamic extremists murdered 15 Christians in a worship
service, church leaders across Pakistan say their congregations remain
"tense and fearful" as Christmas approaches ... US Catholic bishops'
pastoral message "Living With Faith and Hope after September 11

Relief and Reconciliation Initiatives
John Paul II has called on Catholics the world over to fast for peace on
December 14, and invited representatives of world religions to meet in
Assisi on January 24, 2002, to "implore from God the gift of mutual
understanding, harmony and peace" ... Muslims and Jews taking up Pope's
invitation to Assisi ...Cardinal Etchegaray, an organizer of "Assisi I"
looks ahead to "Assisi II"

CATHOLIC WEB TV
http://www.catholictv.net/

"The Culture of Life", a Christmas message from Wellington's Auxiliary
Bishop John Dew.

Interview with Maria Boddington, Wellington leader of Life Teen, a
programme for Catholic teenagers of high school age centred on the Mass
and Eucharistic Adoration. The Life Teen Movement's Website is at:
http://www.lifeteen.org At the top of the home page, in the 'Find Your
Nearest Program' menu, there is a link to New Zealand with details of
Life Teen contacts and activities in nine NZ cities and towns.

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

"And the band played on . . . "
Otago Daily Times 6 December 2001

The band outnumbered the audience 71 to . . . er, four. An Australian
high school band bravely played a full hour of lunchtime music to a
handful of hardy listeners as the rain poured down in the Octagon
yesterday. The cool temperatures meant instruments kept going out of
tune, but the band struggled on. The Franciscan Colleges band was from
Brisbane Catholic single-sex schools Padua College and Mount Alvernia
College, which shared a music department, head of music Chris Dodemont
said. "We organised for good weather but you guys let us down," Mr
Dodemont said. At the end of every second year, the schools' musicians
went on tour. "We like coming to New Zealand because it feels like a
different country," Mr Dodemont said. The band is on a two-week tour of
the South Island and leaves Dunedin today for Te Anau.

JUSTICE, PEACE & DEVELOPMENT

In 'Caritas Update' Issue No. 28, Summer 2001.....
http://www.caritas.org.nz/Update/28_summer_2001/index.htm

"The World's attention has been focused on Afghanistan in recent months.
We provide a Catholic perspective on war and the US bombing campaign and
summarize what Caritas partners are providing for the thousands of
Afghan refugees. We also take time to reflect upon Catholic Social
Teaching and the workshops Caritas offers for people wanting to tap in
to this valuable resource." ... Letter from the Director ... A Catholic
Perspective on Military Action in Afghanistan ... Muslims & Christians
share grief over Church massacre ... Working for the poor and
marginalized through social change ... Principles of Catholic Social
Teaching ... Caritas Network's response to the Afghanistan Refugee
Crisis & Tents for Refugees ... What is the Caritas One World
Partnership? ... Caritas welcomes our new Education Officer ... Response
to the petition for restraint

EDUCATION

New Zealand Catholic Education Office: "Lighting New Fires" Newsletter
No.7 December 2001
http://catholic.org.nz/nzceo/lnf7.htm

Editorial ... Education Review Office and Ministry of Education to
Share Information and Work Programmes ... More Efficient System for
Teachers on Transfer ... National Nutrition Survey ... Effective
Leadership for New and Future Principals – University of Auckland Course
10 -12 April 2002 ... Ministry of Education Contents and Liability
Insurance ... Min. of Ed. survey of schools' progress with Information
Technology ... Achievements of NZ Catholic schools in brief ...
Interesting Websites

EMPLOYMENT

(Vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies )

Communications Officer, Catholic Communications' national office,
Auckland
Full time position assisting the National Director and the Catholic
Diocese of Auckland in preparation and distribution of media releases
and other materials, as well as some administration and clerical duties.
Further information here:
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html#cathcomm
and in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 , and from:
cathcomm@xtra.co.nz
Applications close Tuesday 11 December 2001.

Prison Chaplain, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North
Details in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 and in 'Wel-com' December
2001 p.19 and from the bishop's office, tel (06) 357 1980, fax: (06) 359
0091
Applications close 14 December 2001

Tertiary Education Chaplain, Diocese of Palmerston North
Details in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 and 'Wel-com' December
2001 p.19, and from Bishop's Office, Private Bag 11-012 Palmerston
North. Tel: (06) 357 1980
Applications close 14 December 2001

Diocesan Manager, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North
The appointee will be responsible for all the administration functions
of the diocese. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001
p.20 and in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the Bishops' Office,
Private Bag,11-012, Palmerston north. Tel (06) 356 1980. Applications
close 22 January 2002

Parish Pastoral Worker, Immaculate Conception Parish, Stratford,
Taranaki
Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from the parish secretary,
stratcath@xtra.co.nz

L'Arche New Zealand: full-time live-in assistant, Paraparaumu
(north-west of Wellington)
Details in 'Wel-com' December 2001 p.19 and from Angela Capes,
angela@larche.org.nz

************************
"He will wield authority over the nations
and adjudicate between many peoples;
these will hammer their swords into ploughshares,
their spears into sickles.
Nation will not lift sword against nation,
there will be no more training for war."
(The vision of the prophet Isaiah 2:4)
**************************

Dear friends,

A special word of thanks to Pauline Macintosh for the Scripture
commentary from Marist Messenger posted to the 'kiwicath' forum during
the week. Pauline: would it be possible for you to post the commentary
for each Sunday?

Every best wish and all God's blessings,
Mike Leon
'kiwicath' forum manager


"HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE":
Three Catholic viewpoints

Decent Films:
http://decentfilms.com/reviews/harrypotter1.html
Summary: Some frightening scenes and menace; a few gross images; some
crude and derogatory language; fantasy presentation of magic. Engaging
fun, not for everyone perhaps, but nothing to worry most parents either.

US Conference of Catholic Bishops
http://www.usccb.org/movies/h/harrypotterfullreview.htm
Summary: Due to some menacing situations and scary images with an
instance of crass language, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Despite its
shortcomings, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" is a magical
adventure few would want to miss.

Catholic Film Review Dot.com
http://www.catholicfilmreview.com/2001/harrypotter.html
Summary: I (a mother of three school-age children) went with my kids to
see the movie. It was OK, nothing great, I can't really recommend it.

PENPAL REQUEST
(From 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.21)

"I would like to correspond with a fellow-Catholic from a parish in New
Zealand. I am female, mid-50's, married with grown-up children, a
retired primary school teacher. I have recently moved house to the north
of England on the Scottish borders. If there are any "letter-writers"
out there who would be interested in corresponding with me then please
contact me at the address below" :
"Penfriend"
c/- 'NZ Catholic'
PO Box 147-000
Ponsonby, Auckland

AFGHANISTAN: RECONCILIATION AND REFUGEE AID

Current links on the bishops' What's New page at
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html include ...

John Paul II has called on Catholics the world over to fast for peace on
December 14, and invited representatives of world religions to meet in
Assisi on January 24, 2002, in order "implore from God the gift of
mutual understanding, harmony and peace" ...... Caritas Pakistan is
assisting an estimated 80,000 refugees in Jalozai, south of Peshawar,
who are ignored by the Pakistan government and therefore ineligible for
aid from the UNHCR ...... "Afghan refugees are terrorism victims too": a
dossier of reports by Fides Missionary News Service

CATHOLIC WEB TV
http://www.catholictv.net/

Interviews with Cheryl and John O'Connell, New Zealand founder-members
of the Teams of Our Lady, an international movement for married couples;
and with Joanne Oliver, a member of the Magnficat Community which
operates a farm and a 20-bed retreat centre in Southern Wairarapa.

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

'NZ Catholic' No 127, December 2, 2001
http://catholic.org.nz/cathcom/press/nzc/front.html

'Mercy Hospital to sell its surgical services '
The Sisters of Mercy have decided to sell the surgical services of
Auckland's Mercy Hospital - an icon of Catholic health care for 101
years - to the city's most modern private hospital...... [Related Link:
Mercy Hospital and Hospice ]

'National gathering of priests '
A national gathering of Catholic priests, the first event of its kind in
New Zealand, is planned for 2003. "Its purpose is to affirm and support
clergy," says the secretary of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops'
Conference, Bishop John Dew.... [Related Link: 'Renew' in Hamilton
diocese ]

'Pope calls for new effort to evangelise Oceania '
The Holy Spirit is calling the Church in Oceania to embark on "the great
task of a new evangelisation", Pope John Paul II said when he signed his
exhortation concluding the work of the 1998 Synod of Oceania.....
[Related Links: "Ecclesia in Oceania"(full text) ... The Synod of
Oceania ]

>From the Think Page for young Catholic adults:
'Success in relationships '
This boy-girl thing of relationships, who really understands it? What is
a successful relationship?.....

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

Catholic Church to renovate priory exterior; tenants told to go (photos)
Otago Daily Times 26 Nov 2001 photos
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=26Nov2001&obje\
ct=MKF50E3186NC&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
Dunedin sculptor Wayne Evison has been asked to leave the city's former
Dominican Priory, in Tennyson St, after 12 years living on the top
floor. Mr Evison and his partner Zan, the sole tenants of the priory,
are searching for new space after the owner, the Catholic Church, said
they could not stay on while the building was renovated....

'1000 hampers planned'
Otago Daily Times 21 November
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=21Nov2001&obje\
ct=MKD16B6519IR&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
Dunedin's four foodbanks will, between them, distribute more than 1000
food and gift hampers to needy individuals and families this Christmas.
Managers from Anglican Methodist Family Care, Catholic Social Services,
Presbyterian Support and the Salvation Army met Dunedin Mayor Sukhi
Turner and events unit staff to discuss the mayor's Community Can Help
appeal for this year........

'Lessons to learn in Pacific education'
Otago Daily Times 23 11 01
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=23Nov2001&obje\
ct=L1H02B7648GH&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
The country faces significant long term problems if it does not put a
robust plan in place to systematically raise the education outcomes of
Pacific Island school students. Some hard-headed analysis and strategic
planning is required, writes Pat Lynch, chief executive of the Catholic
Education office.....

EMPLOYMENT

(Vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies )

Hostel Manager, St Kevin's College Hostel, Oamaru..
St Kevin's hostels provide accommodation and pastoral care for up to 230
male and female high school students. Further information in 'NZ
Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.20 and from the College office, PO Box 444
Oamaru.
Web page: http://www.nzeil.co.nz/profiles/sec86.htm Applications close
Monday 3 December 2001

Communications Officer, Catholic Communications' national office,
Auckland
Full time position assisting the National Director and the Catholic
Diocese of Auckland in preparation and distribution of media releases
and other materials, as well as some administration and clerical duties.
Further information here:
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html#cathcomm
and in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 , and from:
cathcomm@xtra.co.nz Applications close Tuesday 11 December 2001.

Prison Chaplain, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North
Details in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 and from the bishop's
office, tel (06) 357 1980, fax: (06) 359 0091 Applications close 14
December 2001

Tertiary Education Chaplain, Diocese of Palmerston North
Details in 'NZ Catholic' 2 December 2001 p.20 and from Bishop's Office,
Private Bag 11-012 Palmerston North. Tel: (06) 357 1980 Applications
close 14 December 2001

Diocesan Manager, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North
The appointee will be responsible for all the administration functions
of the diocese. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001
p.20 and from the Bishops' Office, Private Bag,11-012, Palmerston north.
Tel (06) 356 1980. Applications close 22 January 2002

Dear friends,

This issue of News and Notes is much briefer than I intended, because my wife has just been stung on the nose by a wasp. First things first, you know :-)

During the week members of the 'kiwicath' forum received news of the document "Ecclesia in Oceania", outlining the priorities for the Church's mission in Oceania in the coming decades. In effect this document is the "report and recommendations" of the Special Assembly of the Synod of bishops for Oceania (November-December 1998) which had as its theme: "Jesus Christ and the Peoples of Oceania: Walking His Way, Telling His Truth, Living His Life".

Along with the relevant links, I had intended to write a fuller description of the Special Assembly for Oceania but, thanks to the wasp, it was not be. However you can read all about the Special Assembly on our bishops' Web site, including its "Instrument Laboris" (working document), a very thorough review of the history, problems and prospects of evangelisation in our region in the new century, at: http://www.catholic.org.nz/cathcom/jubilee/synod/synod.html

On the Special Assembly's News page, at: http://www.catholic.org.nz/cathcom/jubilee/synod/news.html you will find summaries of our New Zealand bishops' addresses to the Assembly, giving an idea of what they felt were the pastoral priorities for Oceania. You might like to compare them with those outlined in latest document.

"Ecclesia in Oceania", full text: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_j\ p-ii_exh_20011122_ecclesia-in-oceania_en.html

A summary of the key points in "Ecclesia in Oceania" (about 25 paragraphs): http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=13005

A report of the presentation of the document by Pope John Paul in which he expresses regret that he could not come in person to promulgate it: http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=12998

Further reports about "Ecclesia in Oceania":

Nuclear Contamination of Oceania Denounced. Pope Calls for Respect for Environment http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=13047

Australian Aborigines Thank Pope for Apology In Response to His "Mea Culpa" in Exhortation "Church in Oceania" http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=13045

Pope Asks for Aborigines´ Forgiveness for Abuses by Priests. "Mea Culpa" Expressed in Apostolic Exhortation " Ecclesia in Oceania" http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=13044

Now, I have to buzz off, but I assure you everything will be back to normal next week.

Every best wish and all God's blessings, Mike Leon 'kiwicath' forum manager

"You will be hated by all men on account of my name, but not a hair of
your head will be lost. Your endurance will win you your lives."
St Luke's Gospel 21:19

Dear friends,
Special thanks to our 'kiwicath' forum members who write short reports
on the Renew programme currently underway in New Zealand parishes.

Things are looking a little better for the people of Afghanistan. The
retreat of the Taliban and their foreign allies means that the bombing
has shifted from many of the populated areas, and this opens up more of
the country to the aid agencies. Of course it was marvellous news about
the freeing of the Christian aid workers (and their Afghan employees are
also safe). On the other hand, the war is far from over. The Taliban
have not, after all, abandoned their centre of operations in Kandahar
but intend to make a fight of it, while in some parts of the country the
Taliban's rule has been replaced by banditry and there is less security
for the population than there was before!

Please keep the Afghan people in your daily prayers and in the Prayers
of the Faithful at Mass as you have the opportunity. Read the What's New
page's regularly updated links on the situation and tell anyone who will
listen about it. And how about dropping in at Caritas Aotearoa to
re-read about the Afghanistan relief appeal they are conducting for
Caritas Pakistan:
http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/USA_&_Afghanistan/afghanistan_proposal_summary.h\
tm#Appeal

God bless,
Mike Leon
'kiwicath' forum manager
*******************************

AFGHANISTAN CRISIS

Current links on the bishops' What's New page at
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html include ...

War Reactions:
In their pastoral message "Living With Faith and Hope After September
11" the US Catholic bishops affirm that the war on terrorism is morally
justified, and call on their government to lift sanctions on Iraq, to
work urgently to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to be more
generous in fighting poverty around the world (Links to the full text of
the pastoral message, supplementary remarks on it by Cardinal Bernard
Law and a report by The Washington Post) ... Texas church overjoyed at
news of aid workers´ release ... Cardinal Ratzinger: "To defend oneself
in order to defend the other could be a duty" ... Pakistani Bishops'
Pastoral Letter: "The Sacrifice of the Martyrs of Bahawalpur Will Not Be
in Vain"

Relief and Reconciliation Initiatives:
Caritas International has launched new aid projects for Afghan refugee
families in Pakistan as winter approaches ... 100,000 Afghan Children
Might Die This Winter, UNICEF Aide Warns ... Malaysia: Christian-Muslim
dialogue and prayers for peace encouraged during Ramadan ... John Paul
II to the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue: "Believers
know that, far from doing evil, they are obliged to do good"

In New Zealand:
Anglican and Catholic bishops' joint statement ... Afghan refugee relief
Appeal by Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand

CATHOLIC WEB TV
http://www.catholictv.net/

'Wel-com Living': an interview with Robert McLean, a member of the
Focolare Movement ( http://www.focolare.org.au )

EDUCATION

'Champagnat': A newsletter for Boards of Trustees and Staff of Marist
Schools and Schools with Marist traditions in New Zealand.
Volume 5 Number 4 November 2001
http://catholic.org.nz/fms/page%2041.html
Editorial: Review of the Marist year ... Sharing Champagnat's Vision
conferences: responses by participating teachers ... Tribute to retiring
veteran lay teacher Tom O'Sullivan

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

'NZ Catholic' No 126, November 18, 2001
http://catholic.org.nz/cathcom/press/nzc/front.html

'Overseas students help cash but raise questions '
A push to attract overseas students to study at Catholic schools in New
Zealand is proceeding, although some policy issues are unresolved.....

'Caritas questions US military action '
A response to events in Afghanistan formed only by media sound bites and
personal feelings is inadequate, according to aid and development agency
Caritas-Aotearoa New Zealand...

'New Zealander elected SMSM leader '
Hokitika-born Sr Judith Moore, SMSM, is the new congregational leader of
the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary. Sr Judith was elected to
the position last month at the order's eighth general chapter, in
Rome....

>From the NZC Think Page for young Catholic adults ...
'Keeping afloat '
Do I feel I am going against the tide? In one way yes, in terms of what
society expects, but in another - because of the gentle hand of God
leading me on this journey - in a way I feel like I'm going with God's
tide rather than against it......

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

'Emmeline Hawthorne's saintly Shortland Street role' (photo)
NZ Herald 15 November 2001
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=entertainment&thesubsectio\
n=&storyID=228320
Meet Anne Greenlaw, nurse. Compassionate, humble, virginal. "It's
hysterical and I know there's going to be a lot of people I went to
school with who are going to go, 'her, playing a Catholic virgin!' "But
for me, that cynicism can't really come into play because it needs to be
an honest representation......

'$1m land to be dedicated to murder victim '
Otago Daily Times 17 Nov 2001
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=17Nov2001&obje\
ct=1116820013&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
A $1 million piece of council-owned land will be dedicated to the memory
of respected Queenstown resident and teacher, the late Paddy Burton,
"much-loved as a woman, much-loved as a teacher, a devout Catholic and
the land can be seen from the Catholic Church...."

'New view gives glimpse of the past ' (photo)
Otago Daily Times 15 Nov 2001
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=15Nov2001&obje\
ct=MBI34C7694NN&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
Mary Queen of Peace Church boasts new stained-glass windows, but their
design is far from new. With just a grainy black-and-white photograph
for guidance, the congregation of a tiny Broad Bay church has restored
their place of worship to its 19th century glory....

`Compost man' was first of the greenies' (photo)
Otago Daily Times 17 Nov 2001
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=17Nov2001&obje\
ct=MEG47F9624EC&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
Keeping good health until a heart attack in March this year, 94-year-old
former Dunedin resident Joseph Gagliardi was a fervent proponent of
organic gardening. A devout Roman Catholic, he was actively involved
with the St Vincent de Paul Society, helping disadvantaged people in the
community. He also helped the nuns in the Andersons Bay Little Sisters
of the Poor rest home - regularly going in to give the male residents a
shave - and was a strong advocate for the Society for the Protection of
the Unborn Child.......

'Kindness underpinned all martinet headmaster did' (photo)
Otago Daily Times 17 November photo
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=17Nov2001&obje\
ct=M9F03B4670NF&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial
St Edmunds was a small intermediate school in South Dunedin and Brother
Vincent Sullivan, who has died aged 80, ran it like a military
camp.......

'Sisters sell business to private hospital'
NZ Herald 15.11.2001
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?storyID=228325&thesection=news&thesub\
section=general
The Sisters of Mercy plan to sell their surgical business at Mercy
Hospital in Epsom to the private Ascot Hospital. The nuns have owned and
operated Mercy Hospital at Mountain Rd for the past 100 years, during
which it has grown into one of the leading private healthcare
facilities.......

'School to stage opera with a message ' (photo)
Whangarei Leader 16 November 2001
http://www.stuff.co.nz/inl/index/0,1008,1010048a1800,FF.html
Dominic Taffs plays a crippled boy with a large imagination in an opera
being performed at St Francis Xavier Church next week. Father Gerard
Mills is producing "Amahl and the Night Visitors" with the help of Joan
Kennaway, who was musical director of Otamatea Repertory Theatre's
production of "Les Miserables".....

'Bishops want end to bombing'
Otago Daily Times 17 11 2001
Dunedin's Anglican and Catholic Bishops have supported a national call
for an end to the bombing of Afghanistan. Catholic Bishop Len Boyle and
Anglican Bishop Penny Jamieson were among about 20 bishops who attended
an annual joint meeting in Wellington last week. The bishops released a
press statement condemning the US bombing of Afghanistan in retaliation
for the terrorist attacks of September 11. While supporting justice for
the terrorist attacks, the bishops "reaffirmed the moral necessity for
diplomatic and legal solutions". They also urged New Zealanders to seek
to understand Islam more and to build closer relationships with Muslim
communities. Bishop Boyle said yesterday the bishops were unanimous in
their support for the statement

EMPLOYMENT

(Vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies )

Catholic Integrated Schools Board, Auckland. Primary Schools Religious
Education Advisor/Consultant
Details in 'NZ Catholic' 4 Nov. 2001 p.21 and from Catholic Integrated
Schools Board, Private Bag 47-904 Ponsonby Auckland 1034 Fax (09) 360
3084.
Applications close 21 November 2001

Catholic Character Manager, Hamilton Diocese
The appointee will develop and implement a Catholic character strategic
plan for all the Catholic schools in the diocese. Full details in 'NZ
Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.21 and from Naomi McGowan: naomim@mlc.co.nz
Hamilton Schools' Office Website:
http://catholic.org/newzealand/hamilton/ciso/home.htm
Applications close Monday 26 November 2001

Parish Resource Co-ordinator, Hamilton Diocese
The appointee will establish and implement a strategic resource plan for
the pastoral development of all the parishes in the diocese of Hamilton.
Full details in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.21 and from Naomi
McGowan: naomim@mlc.co.nz
Diocesan Pastoral Resource Team:
http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/hamilton/pastoral-resource.htm
Applications close Monday 26 November 2001

Tertiary Chaplain, Auckland Diocese
Full-time salaried position. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18
November 2001 p.21 and from Dame Sr Pauline Engle, Private Bag 47-904,
Ponsonby, Auckland 1034.
Tertiary Chaplaincy page: http://www.cda.org.nz/cathsoc/chaplaincy.htm
Applications close 30 November 2001

Parish Co-ordinators, Diocese of Palmerston North.
The Catholic bishop of Palmerston north seeks expressions of interest
from suitably qualified Catholics in positions as parish co-ordinators
in parishes that have no resident priest. Contact: The Bishops' Office,
Private Bag 11-012, Palmerston north. Tel (06) 356 1980

Live-in supervisor, (single mature woman or mature couple) Bethlehem
House for pregnant women, Auckland. Details in 'NZ Catholic' 4 Nov. 2001
p.21 and from Family Life Pregnancy centre, PO Box 56-423 Dominion Rd.,
Auckland.

Communications Officer, Catholic Communications' national office,
Auckland
Full time position assisting the National Director and the Catholic
Diocese of Auckland in preparation and distribution of media releases
and other materials, as well as some administration and clerical duties.
Further information here:
http://www.catholic.org.nz/whatsNew.html#cathcomm and from:
cathcomm@xtra.co.nz
Applications close Tuesday 11 December 2001.

Hostel Manager, St Kevin's College Hostel, Oamaru..
St Kevin's hostels provide accommodation and pastoral care for up to 230
male and female high school students. Further information in 'NZ
Catholic' 18 November 2001 p.20 and from the College office, PO Box 444
Oamaru.
Web page: http://www.nzeil.co.nz/profiles/sec86.htm
Applications close Monday 3 December 2001

Diocesan Manager, Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North
The appointee will be responsible for all the administration functions
of the diocese. Further information in 'NZ Catholic' 18 November 2001
p.20 and from the Bishops' Office, Private Bag,11-012, Palmerston north.
Tel (06) 356 1980. Applications close 22 January 2002