Wednesday, December 25, 2002

Dear friends,

This is the last edition of News and Notes for 2002. I will start it up again in early-to-mid January.

Special thanks first of all to our regular contributors of reflections on the Scriptures, Pauline and more recently Dominic, who provide the "Kiwicath' forum with its principal spiritual content. Many thanks also to the volunteers who keep an eye on the newsletter and magazine Websites to tell me when new content comes up. I am very grateful for your help.

Thank you also to the 108 current members of the Kiwicath forum and to the members of its little brother "Kiwicath News & Notes" on MSN Communities for supporting the two services by sticking with us. Members of Kiwicath no doubt ask themselves sometimes where's the distinctive New Zealand content on this "forum on Catholic life in New Zealand?". Well, it crops up from time to time. I have learned to be patient and take the long view. I think that the mere fact that such a forum exists is a good thing, even if it's not constantly boiling with life, because you never know when it might be needed.

One thing's for sure, there will be plenty to discuss in the next year or two. Preparations are well advanced in several New Zealand dioceses for the biggest change in the NZ Catholic Church since the reforms of Vatican II, namely the withdrawal of many resident parish priests to district centres and the appointment of trained lay people as full-time parish administrators. If that doesn't spark some discussion, I don't know what would!! Also I predict the probable war in Iraq next year will be a hot topic. And there will very likely be a new Pope at some point in the next few years, followed by more upheavals.

With many people heading off to vacations, the old problem of a backlog of e-mails inspires some people to quit Kiwicath altogether at this time of the year. You don't have to go that far however. You can change your settings for our forum to "No e-mail", and change them back again when you return. To do this, just send me a note at leon@xtra.co.nz 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 the circle for "No email".

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

To quit 'kiwicath' altogether send a message to: kiwicath-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Every best wish and all God's blessings for Christmas and the new year.

Mike Leon 'kiwicath' forum manager

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CHRISTMAS 2002

"Practical tips for the festive season " Catholic Weekly (Sydney) 22 December 2002 http://www.catholicweekly.com.au/02/dec/22/17.html

For nearly three weeks at Christmas the Church focuses on its extraordinary claim of faith: that God has entered human history and brought salvation to the world. So, while our surrounding culture has all but forgotten Christmas, how can Christians keep the spirit of this sacred season alive? Here are five practical avenues to consider ....

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

John Roughan: "Not enough faith and hope, far too much charity " NZ Herald 21.12.2002 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=3048200 God, I love Christmas. From the first carol on the radio, I'm hooked. By Tuesday evening I'll be looking for a midnight carol service. Every year, looking around, I see many like me - casual attenders who are there to recapture a little of their childhood and maybe, just maybe, to get the gift of faith again. Why, you probably wonder, if you haven't known the enormous comfort of knowing your place and purpose in some eternal benign design....

"No comments on fell swoop" Otago Daily Times 20 December 2002 (full text) Catholic Property Services has declined to comment on allegations it felled a "significant" yew tree near St Joseph's Cathedral without approval. In a statement to the Otago Daily Times yesterday, Catholic Property Services property manager Bill Haydon said the matter of beautification of the cathedral site was under discussion between the church and the Dunedin City Council. "Until that discussion has concluded, it is inappropriate for me to comment on what trees are affected by the developments and what landscaping will eventuate." On Wednesday, council enforcement monitoring officer Ian McCabe said the church was likely to receive a $300 instant fine. Related article: "Tree cut down accidentally, church property manager says " (photo) Otago Daily Times 20 December 2002 http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=19Dec2002&obje\ ct=OIG58M3590IR&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial

"Low Income Leads To Poverty Trap" (press release) NZ Council of Christian Social Services 17 December 2002 http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO0212/S00141.htm Poverty is trapping many people in a downward spiral of debt, according to a report released today by the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services. The latest results from the Poverty Indicator Report show that many of the people using foodbank services are in debt. At some participating foodbanks, debt is reported by up to 90% of the applicants. Owing money to Work and Income is the most common debt reported, although a significant proportion of applicants are in arrears on utility or electricity bills....

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EVENTS

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January 3-12, 2003 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet" St Joseph's Maori School for Girls, 25 Osier Rd, Taradale, Napier http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/heartsaflame

The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School for young Catholic adults (18-35) offers ... * An opportunity to deepen your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and through 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

********************

24-27 Jan. 2003 Parachute Music Festival, Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata

Catholics@Parachute: http://www.parachute.ecatholic.net.nz Parachute Music Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com Parachute Music New Zealand: http://www.parachutemusic.com Parachute 2002 Photo Gallery ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/index.shtml... including "Catholic service in the Cage" (photo by Hamish Ferguson) ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/pages/catholic%20service_hamish%20fe\ rguson.htm

The annual Parachute Music Festival Extreme is the biggest Christian music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, with audiences of over twenty thousand mainly young Kiwis.

Parachute Music, the Festival's sponsor, works to develop NZ Christian music, to market it internationally and to make Christian musicians and performers a major influence in mainstream Kiwi culture. Catholics@Parachute is organising a group booking for Kiwi Catholics so as to a get a reserved campsite (tent city) for their group. The idea is to make attending Parachute Festival easier and more appealing, to encourage fellowship among young Kiwi Catholics and introduce them to Parachute Music's mission. Catholics@Parachute also hope to organise a public Mass on one of the stages, which will be the first Catholic Mass most of those at the Festival will have ever witnessed.

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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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The Catholic Network of Marriage Educators. National Co-ordinator Part-time position, involves some travelling. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from CNME Trust Board Chairperson, PO Box 1937, Wellington. Applications close 31 January 2003.

Catholic Marriage Educators' National Co-ordinator Further details in 'Wel-com' December 2002 p.23, and from CNME Trust board, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Applications close 31 January 2003

Sunday, December 15, 2002

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ADVENT

Therese J Borchard. "There’s something about Mary ..." Catholic Weekly (Sydney) 15 December 2002 http://www.catholicweekly.com.au/02/dec/15/19.html Every year during Advent, I’m reminded of a pilgrimage I made to Lourdes, France, when I was 19. I didn’t have any great expectations, as I was in France at the time and was simply tagging along with two friends who had their hearts set on visiting the place. I was much more excited about planning my future adventure to Lisieux, the hometown of my patron saint. However, as our train stopped at the platform right outside the shrine at Lourdes, I could not deny that something mystical surrounded us. A scent of mystery hung in the air....

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FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

"Cardinal Law resigns amid mounting pressure " National Catholic Reporter, December 13, 2002 http://www.natcath.com/NCR_Online/archives/122702/122702d.htm Appropriately enough, Cardinal Bernard Law’s final act unfolded against the backdrop of a cold and gloomy Friday the 13th in Rome. Pope John Paul II today accepted Law’s brief resignation letter, ending months of speculation and capping a groundswell of demands for Law’s ouster from a wide cross-section of priests and laity in Boston....

"Boston’s beleaguered cardinal arrives in Rome" The Tablet, 14 December 2002 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/register.cgi?citw Boston’s archbishop, Cardinal Bernard Law, flew to Rome earlier this week amid further damaging disclosures of clerical misconduct in his archdiocese, the prospect of bankruptcy, and calls from his own priests to stand down. Speculation in Rome was that the Vatican was likely to appoint a coadjutor bishop as a face-saving means of removing him from the leadership...

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CATHOLIC WEB TV

Catholictv.net (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Office) http://www.catholictv.net

This week's feature: Sr Stephanie Kitching interviews Anne Desalis, marriage preparation educator.

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JUSTICE, PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT

Caritas Update Issue No. 31, Summer 2002 http://www.caritas.org.nz/Update/31_summer_2002/index.htm

In this issue...

Letter from the director ... Cambodia - Preventing land loss and illegal logging ... War on Iraq a recipe for humanitarian disaster ... Caritas Internationalis message from Jerusalem ... Caritas response to Southern Africa Crisis ... Social Justice Week Review ... Maori, Church, and the Land ... Catholic Social Teaching Workshops ... School Spotlight

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NEW AND UPDATED WEBSITES

(Special thanks to Kiwicath forum member Julian Roberts for many of these links)

Christchurch Carmelites The annual Newsletter of the Christchurch Carmel is on its Website at: http://www.karmel.at/~chch/index.htm Via this site you can also tour the convent of this contemplative order of nuns, thanks to the Wonderful World Wide Web.

Congregational Leaders Conference of Aotearoa New Zealand (CLCANZ) http://religious.org.nz/The site of the national association of Catholic Sisters, Brothers and priests in religious orders.

The Cenacle Community in NZ/Australia http://cenacle.org.nz The Cenacle Sisters particular calling is spiritual direction through individual or group retreats.

The De La Salle Brothers in NZ http://delasalle.org.nz Lasallian Vocations and Youth Ministry in Australia and New Zealand http://vocym.org Lasallian Youth Gathering, Auckland, 2003 http://lyg03.com The De La Salle Brothers are active in New Zealand as Catholic secondary school teachers and educational administrators, and in youth ministry.

Auckland Catholic Youth Ministry http://akyouth.org.nz and Summer Connection Camp http://summerx.akyouth.org.nz

Christchurch Catholic Youth Team http://cyt.org.nz

Nebo – a Catholic band from Christchurch http://nebo.co.nz

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EVENTS

********************

January 3-12, 2003 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet" St Joseph's Maori School for Girls, 25 Osier Rd, Taradale, Napier http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/heartsaflame

The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School for young Catholic adults (18-35) offers ... * An opportunity to deepen your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and through 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

********************

24-27 Jan. 2003 Parachute Music Festival, Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata

Catholics@Parachute: http://www.parachute.ecatholic.net.nz Parachute Music Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com Parachute Music New Zealand: http://www.parachutemusic.com Parachute 2002 Photo Gallery ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/index.shtml... including "Catholic service in the Cage" (photo by Hamish Ferguson) ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/pages/catholic%20service_hamish%20fe\ rguson.htm

The annual Parachute Music Festival Extreme is the biggest Christian music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, with audiences of over twenty thousand mainly young Kiwis.

Parachute Music, the Festival's sponsor, works to develop NZ Christian music, to market it internationally and to make Christian musicians and performers a major influence in mainstream Kiwi culture. Catholics@Parachute is organising a group booking for Kiwi Catholics so as to a get a reserved campsite (tent city) for their group. The idea is to make attending Parachute Festival easier and more appealing, to encourage fellowship among young Kiwi Catholics and introduce them to Parachute Music's mission. Catholics@Parachute also hope to organise a public Mass on one of the stages, which will be the first Catholic Mass most of those at the Festival will have ever witnessed.

*****************************************

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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Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, Wanganui. Manager/Hostess The Sisters are seeking a live-in Manager/Hostess to co-ordinate and oversee the running of their busy Centre overlooking Wanganui City. The Centre is the Sisters' hearth-place as well as a place of retreat and reflection, and a conference centre. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, 14 Hillside Terrace, PO Box 777, Wanganui. Applications close 20 Dec 2002

The Catholic Network of Marriage Educators. National Co-ordinator Part-time position, involves some travelling. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from CNME Trust Board Chairperson, PO Box 1937, Wellington. Applications close 31 January 2003.

Catholic Marriage Educators' National Co-ordinator Further details in 'Wel-com' December 2002 p.23, and from CNME Trust board, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015. Applications close 31 January 2003

Monday, December 9, 2002

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"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)
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"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



Sunday, December 8, 2002

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ADVENT RESOURCES

Beliefnet's Advent Calendar http://www.beliefnet.com/index/index_10055.html The calendar is designed to focus a child's interest on the coming of Christ, culminating in the story of the Nativity on 25 December. Each day's feature revealing a story or anecdote associated with the Christian celebration of Christmas. One of the early themes from this interactive Advent Calendar from Beliefnet is Star of Wonder, including information about telescopes and cosmology and an activity for making a Christmas star. The coding behind the calendar prevents users from peeking at stories from the days ahead. Since it operates on U.S. time, New Zealanders have to be patient for at least 12 hours before they can get at the latest material.

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FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

The Marist Messenger, December 2002 http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz/focus.htm

Full text articles from the current issue ...

** The reality of the Christmas story... Hospitality to the stranger is close to the heart of Christianity. This is a provocative and testing statement. Recently I preached from the Sunday Gospel about such hospitality. Someone who had listened waited after Mass to object to my homily! He politely but firmly asked me, 'Why should we welcome them when we are not welcome in some Muslim countries?' This excellent question has made me think....

** Sunshine through my window ** She has the most gorgeous little cherub face, and beautiful big blue-grey eyes framed by long, luscious eyelashes. Her smile - more a toothy grin - easily breaks into infectious laughter. Her face has graced the cover of New Zealand Family Physician magazine, The Bay News, Anne Geddes' nursery room.com website and IHC promotional brochures. In less than two short years, this little girl with Down Syndrome has become a type of celebrity for those with disabilities, celebrated as downright special....

Also in the print edition : Before the innocence of God ...Two babies in the manger ... Mary's words ... Mother of the Journey ... Table talk -for parents ... Cardinal Vlk of Czechoslovakia ... The strong words of love.

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

"Push for "values" education " TVNZ Dec 07 2002 [Full text] The Ministry of Education is being urged to heed a global push for spiritual values to be taught in schools alongside academic education. The message comes from a meeting of 30 Asia-Pacific countries under the auspices of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization. Deputy chairman of New Zealand's National Commission for UNESCO Pat Lynch** says children need to be explicitly taught some key values that are common to many religions. He says without peace, harmony, love, kindness, working together and truthfulness the fabric of society falls apart. Lynch says he hopes draft consultation papers on the secondary school curriculum, which are due to come out early next year, will include a strong spiritual values programme.

** Brother Pat Lynch, head of the NZ Catholic Education Office


Radio New Zealand. "9 to Noon", with Lynda Clarke. 11.00am to Midday 06/12/2002 http://xtramsn.co.nz/musicandvideo/0,,6151,00.html Why are mainstream churches' congregations dwindling? Do New Zealanders still want to live by Christian values? Interview with Wellington parish priest Fr Gerard Burns (audio file, preceded by 12 minutes of news and weather)

"Abused trio get church runaround " NZ Herald 07.12.2002 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?storyID=3008295&thesection=news&thesu\ bsection=general Three brothers sexually abused as children by a Catholic priest in Auckland are angry they are still waiting for their case to be resolved eight months after they complained to the church. Church authorities this week admitted that they had failed the brothers and apologised when approached by the Weekend Herald....

"Of God and Gollum " (photo) INL National News 04 December 2002 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2130421a11,00.html It's a question of the Lord and the Rings ... or whether God knows his way around Middle Earth. And it's a question Waikato's Anglican Bishop David Moxon thinks he knows the answer to. Bishop Moxon, a long-time fan of Lord of the Rings, both book and movie, has recently been preaching from the gospel according to JRR Tolkien in an effort to prove Christianity lies at the heart of one of the world's most famous literary trilogies...

"Catholic order pays 70 who claim abuse " NZ Herald 04.12.2002 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?storyID=3007649&thesection=news&thesu\ bsection=general A Catholic order has handed out a pre-Christmas bonus of $1500 each to 70 men who complain they were abused as boys by its brothers. The St John of God Order mailed the payments this week to complainants from the former Marylands residential school in Christchurch....

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CATHOLIC WEB TV

Catholictv.net Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre http://www.catholictv.net

Capt. Annette Garrett of the Salvation Army Hope Centre, Newtown, talks about de-stressing Christmas by keeping it simple and preserving its spirit (Interviewer, Fr Peter Roe)

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CHRISTMAS E-CARDS

http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz/ecards/

This is a free services by which, after opening the Website, you can choose a picture with a Christmas theme and send Christmas greetings by e-mail to a friend with the picture attached. Over time, Marist Messenger will add cards and music for other important Catholic occasions, such as Baptisms, Weddings, Confirmations, as well as St Patrick's Day and Easter.

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"BLACK ROBE" : The Jesuit Mission in Canada

Prime TV screened the movie 'Black Robe' last night, a fictional account of the early French Jesuit missionaries in seventeenth-century Quebec. For a more historical view of the period you can read the biographies of Isaac Jogues and his companion missionary-martyrs, and of Kateri Takewitha ("the Lily of the Mohawks"), on the Canadian Martyrs Website http://home.golden.net/~wts/wts/wts-saints-martyrs.html The links include translations of the reports ("Relations") written by the French Jesuit missionaries at the time.

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EVENTS

********************

January 3-12, 2003 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet" St Joseph's Maori School for Girls, 25 Osier Rd, Taradale, Napier http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/heartsaflame

The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School for young Catholic adults (18-35) offers ... * An opportunity to deepen your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and through 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

********************

24-27 Jan. 2003 Parachute Music Festival, Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata

Catholics@Parachute: http://www.parachute.ecatholic.net.nz Parachute Music Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com Parachute Music New Zealand: http://www.parachutemusic.com Parachute 2002 Photo Gallery ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/index.shtml... including "Catholic service in the Cage" (photo by Hamish Ferguson) ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/pages/catholic%20service_hamish%20fe\ rguson.htm

The annual Parachute Music Festival Extreme is the biggest Christian music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, with audiences of over twenty thousand mainly young Kiwis.

Parachute Music, the Festival's sponsor, works to develop NZ Christian music, to market it internationally and to make Christian musicians and performers a major influence in mainstream Kiwi culture. Catholics@Parachute is organising a group booking for Kiwi Catholics so as to a get a reserved campsite (tent city) for their group. The idea is to make attending Parachute Festival easier and more appealing, to encourage fellowship among young Kiwi Catholics and introduce them to Parachute Music's mission. Catholics@Parachute also hope to organise a public Mass on one of the stages, which will be the first Catholic Mass most of those at the Festival will have ever witnessed.

*****************************************

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

****************************************

Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, Wanganui. Manager/Hostess The Sisters are seeking a live-in Manager/Hostess to co-ordinate and oversee the running of their busy Centre overlooking Wanganui City. The Centre is the Sisters' hearth-place as well as a place of retreat and reflection, and a conference centre. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, 14 Hillside Terace, PO Box 777, Wanganui. Applications close 20 Dec 2002

The Catholic Network of Marriage Educators. National Co-ordinator Part-time position, involves some travelling. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from CNME Trust Board Chairperson, PO Box 1937, Wellington. Applications close 31 January 2003.

Monday, December 2, 2002

************************
"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




Sunday, December 1, 2002

Dear readers,

I invite you all to let me know the Web addresses of any good Advent resource sites for children and adults. Please drop me a line at leon@xtra.co.nz . Many thanks.

Sky TV is now offering e-mail via its digital service. Subscribers can send and receive messages via their TV screens, so they don't need to a master a computer to have e-mail. And *that* means they can join the 'kiwicath' forum, which is an e-mail service. So if you know anyone who you think might like to join out forum and who has Sky Digital or is thinking about getting it, please mention the new e-mail service, and tell them they can join 'kiwicath' by simply sending a message to kiwicath-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Mike Leon 'kiwicath' forum manager

****************************

ADVENT RESOURCES

US Bishops' Advent Homily Resource site To help preachers combine doctrinal and theological content in their homilies in the coming weeks, the U.S. bishops' conference has posted a Web page that correlates the themes in the lectionary with the teachings found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The page is at www.nccbuscc.org/dpp/advent.htm.

************************************

CATHOLIC WEB TV

Catholictv.net (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Office) http://www.catholictv.net

Sr Stephanie Kitching talks to Msgr John Carde, Vicar General of Wellington Archdiocese, about surviving Christmas (first of a series)

************************************

MARIST BROTHERS NEWSLETTERS

***************
"Champagnat": A Newsletter for Boards of Trustees and Staff of Marist Schools and Schools with Marist traditions in New Zealand Volume 6 Number 4 November 2002 (four pages, illustrated) http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz Summary: With Mary as our Model ... St John’s College Hamilton 40th Reunion ... Reunions and Jubilees 2003 ... Catholic Cathedral College, Christchurch restoring Opening of Leper Cottage, Quail Island ... People News ... National Catholic Schools' Day 2003

****************
"Marist Family News". November 2002 (four pages, illustrated) http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz Summary: Rest in Peace ... Jubilees ... Building Plans ... REMAR Youth Groups ... Alternative Education Units ... Recent Publications ... Overseas Training ... Champagnat Family Movement ... Web Sites -Keeping in Touch ... Marty Holah, new All Black ... Leadership in the Province ... Our Christmas Wishes

*******************************

MEDJUGORJE NEWS

Issue 28 Dec 2002 http://www.medjugorjenews-nz.org/

Summary: Introduction ... The Medjugorje Story ... Our Lady's Messages... From the Editor ... Excerpts from Medjugorje Bulletins ... New Mysteries for Rosary ... News from Medjugorje ... Prayer Groups ... Vicka's Visit ... Our Father in Heaven ... Mirjana says ... Concerning Our Lady of All Nations ... A Poor Scottish Farmer's Son ... Apparitions at Kibeho, Rwanda ... The Incredible Story of Maria Esperanza ... Damascus Miracle ... Our Lady at Burkina and Marpingen... Henri Nouven on Prayer ... The Latest on the Visionaries ... Funny How We Can Overlook ... Our Own Miracle ... Pope Was Born After Mother Refused Abortion ... Spiritual Experience

*******************************

EVENTS

5-8 December 2002 The Future of Christianity in the West. An international, interdisciplinary conference hosted by the School of Liberal Arts and the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Otago http://telperion.otago.ac.nz/theoweb/conference/index.html

Conference themes include: The future of Christianity in the West ... Secularization, R.I.P.? ... Australian and New Zealand Christianities: past, present, and future .... Religious patterns in Europe, North America, and Australasia compared ... Christianity and the public sphere: problems and prospects ... The impact of globalization and religious pluralism on Western Christianity ... Christianity and human rights ... Postmodern Christianities

********************

January 3-12, 2003 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet" St Joseph's Maori School for Girls, 25 Osier Rd, Taradale, Napier http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/heartsaflame

The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School for young Catholic adults (18-35) offers ... An opportunity to deepen your spiritual life through personal, communal and liturgical prayer and through 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

********************

31 Jan. - 3 February Parachute Music Festival, Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata

Catholics@Parachute: http://www.parachute.ecatholic.net.nz Parachute Music Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com Parachute Music New Zealand: http://www.parachutemusic.com Parachute 2002 Photo Gallery ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/index.shtml... including "Catholic service in the Cage" (photo by Hamish Ferguson) ... http://www.parachute.co.nz/festival/gallery/pages/catholic%20service_hamish%20fe\ rguson.htm

The annual Parachute Music Festival Extreme is the biggest Christian music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, with audiences of over twenty thousand mainly young Kiwis.

Parachute Music, the Festival's sponsor, works to develop NZ Christian music, to market it internationally and to make Christian musicians and performers a major influence in mainstream Kiwi culture. Catholics@Parachute is organising a group booking for Kiwi Catholics so as to a get a reserved campsite (tent city) for their group. The idea is to make attending Parachute Festival easier and more appealing, to encourage fellowship among young Kiwi Catholics and introduce them to Parachute Music's mission. Catholics@Parachute also hope to organise a public Mass on one of the stages, which will be the first Catholic Mass most of those at the Festival will have ever witnessed.

*****************************************

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

****************************************

Parish Pastoral worker, St Heliers, Auckland 15 hours per week. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov 17 2002, p.21 and from Pat McNamara tel. (09) 528 3459. Fax (09) 528 3419, 22 Lammermoor Drive, St Heliers, Auckland. Applications close 2 December, 2002

Part-time Parish Pastoral Co-ordinator, Maria Assumpta Parish, Beachhaven, Auckland Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002, p.21 and from John Rooney, Chairperson, Maria Assumpta Parish Council, PO Box 66-020, Beachhaven, North Shore City 1310. Applications close 6 December 2002.

Live-in support Person, Mt Tabor Trust Inc., Helensville, Auckland Full-time position working with people with intellectual disabilities in the Grey Lynn area. Drivers licence essential. Please reply in writing to Mike Popple, PO Box 121, Helensville. Tel: (09) 420-9701

Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, Wanganui. Manager/Hostess The Sisters are seeking a live-in Manager/Hostess to co-ordinate and oversee the running of their busy Centre overlooking Wanganui City. The Centre is the Sisters' hearth-place as well as a place of retreat and reflection, and a conference centre. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from Sisters of St Joseph of Nazareth, 14 Hillside Terrace, PO Box 777, Wanganui. Applications close 20 Dec 2002

The Catholic Network of Marriage Educators. National Co-ordinator Part-time position, involves some travelling. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Dec 1 2002 p.21 and from CNME Trust Board Chairperson, PO Box 1937, Wellington. Applications close 31 January 2003.

Sunday, November 24, 2002

**************************************

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

"A challenge; then the hush descends"
Catholic Weekly (Sydney) 24 Nov 2002
http://www.catholicweekly.com.au/02/nov/24/18.html
Hyperactive, uncontrollable children crawling around my seat and pulling
things out of my bag, children continually yelling at the top of their
lungs, the use of language which would make my mother's hair curl. Who
in their right minds would endure this? State school scripture teachers.
Why on earth would they do that? Some might ask: "Why put yourself
through it?"...

*****************************************

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

***********************

(From Ana Samway's 'Sideswipe' column in the NZ Herald )

Who would have guessed the Catholic Church had more of a sense of humour
than the winemaker over Sideswipe finding a mass grave of Taittinger
bottles in its recycling bins: Michael Brajkovich, of Kumeu River Wines,
writes: "Less of a Sideswipe than a Cheap Shot, really, and all when we
thought the Herald was getting so much better. If you had any
journalistic integrity you would be aware that these bottles were the
remnants of a fundraising dinner for the Catholic Caring Foundation. The
Taittinger Champagne was purchased at cost, not retail, and the Kumeu
River Wine was donated. They were consumed by paying guests, and not
used for communion, as mischievously implied ... "

Catholic Communications demonstrated a healthier sense of humour by
issuing this statement. "Living the highlife at Catholic Headquarters? A
nicely nuanced piece and pic in today's Sideswipe column! But some
clarification is called for, just in case your readers are left with an
impression of extravagant living at the Catholic Church's HQ ... The
wine was donated for a charity dinner on Tuesday night put on by the
Catholic Caring Foundation. This raised over $70,000 for community
charities which include emergency housing and women's refuges. It
augments the $176,000 which has already been donated this year to
community projects in the Auckland and Northland regions by our Caring
Foundation."

************************

"School Of Theology Formed " (Press Release: Auckland University)
Scoop 22 November 2002, 3:31 pm
http://www.scoop.co.nz/archive/scoop/stories/8f/9a/200211221531.097c7c64.html
A School of Theology headed by a professor is being established at The
University of Auckland. The School builds on the partnership through
which the Auckland Consortium for Theological Education (ACTE) and the
University have offered theological degrees and diplomas since 1990....

*******************

"Jesus's Secretary Visits Wellington" (photos)
Scoop, 21 November 2002
http://www.scoop.co.nz/mason/stories/HL0211/S00139.htm
The customs officer hails me from across the now empty Wellington
airport arrivals hall, "Mr Thompson?" "Yes, that's me," I reply. "I have
three people from Bolivia who say they are here with you, I was hoping
you might answer a few questions. So what are they doing here?" "It's a
religious thing," I reply, "the woman is a mystic." "What's a mystic?"
"She talks to Jesus," I reply. This doesn't help...

******************

"Spuc not wanted in Christmas parade "
INL National News 19 November 2002
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2114923a11,00.html
A children's Christmas parade has taken a sour political turn with
organisers refusing entry to an anti-abortion lobby group. A float
representing the Upper Hutt branch of the Society for the Protection of
the Unborn Child (Spuc) was been told it's not welcome at the Hutt City
parade, and Spuc Upper Hutt secretary Vida Heersping is unhappy....

"Parade bans anti-abortion float" (audio interview with Vida Heersping)
IRN
http://xtramsn.co.nz/musicandvideo/0,,6081-1935635-25,00.html

*****************

"Polish heritage celebrated at church (photo)"
Otago Daily Times Monday, 18-November 2002
http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=18Nov2002&obje\
ct=NGH11E4611ES&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial

It was a little slice of Poland in the Mary Queen of Peace Church on
Saturday. The congregation packed the tiny church, with some girls and
women wearing traditional dress with flowers in their hair, to bless a
rosary and crucifix brought from Poland, and to unveil a commemorative
plaque. The Roman Catholic church, built in 1889 by Polish immigrants,
is slowly being restored to its original condition....

*******************************

EVENTS

5-8 December 2002
The Future of Christianity in the West.
An international, interdisciplinary conference hosted by the School of
Liberal Arts and the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the
University of Otago
http://telperion.otago.ac.nz/theoweb/conference/index.html

Conference themes include: The future of Christianity in the West ...
Secularization, R.I.P.? ... Australian and New Zealand Christianities:
past, present, and future .... Religious patterns in Europe, North
America, and Australasia compared ... Christianity and the public
sphere: problems and prospects ... The impact of globalization and
religious pluralism on Western Christianity ... Christianity and human
rights ... Postmodern Christianities

********************

January 3-12, 2003
Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet"
St Joseph's Maori School for Girls, 25 Osier Rd, Taradale, Napier
http://www.catholic.org/newzealand/heartsaflame

The Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School for young Catholic adults
(18-35) offers ...
An opportunity to deepen your spiritual life through personal, communal
and liturgical prayer and through 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

********************

31 Jan. - 3 February
Parachute Music Festival, Totara Springs Christian Camp, Matamata

Catholics@Parachute: http://www.parachute.ecatholic.net.nz
Parachute Music Festival Website: http://websites.parachutemusic.com
Parachute Music New Zealand: http://www.parachutemusic.com

The annual Parachute Music Festival Extreme is the biggest Christian
music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, with audiences of over twenty
thousand mainly young Kiwis.

Parachute Music, the Festival's sponsor, works to develop NZ Christian
music, to market it internationally and to make Christian musicians and
performers a major influence in mainstream Kiwi culture.
Catholics@Parachute is organising a group booking for Kiwi Catholics so
as to a get a reserved campsite (tent city) for their group. The idea is
to make attending Parachute Festival easier and more appealing, to
encourage fellowship among young Kiwi Catholics and introduce them to
Parachute Music's mission. Catholics@Parachute also hope to organise a
public Mass on one of the stages, which will be the first Catholic Mass
most of those at the Festival will have ever witnessed.

*****************************************

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

*****************

Events Co-ordinator, Catholic Diocese of Christchurch
Full time position with the Diocesan Youth Team.
Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov 17 2002, p.21 and from: The
Director, Catholic Youth Team, P0 Box 4544, Christchurch. Tel.: (03)
366-9869 Fax (03) 379-8724. Email:
mstopforth@christchurch.catholic.org.nz Applications close 28th November
2002.

*****************

Parish Pastoral worker, St Heliers, Auckland
15 hours per week. Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov 17 2002, p.21
and from Pat McNamara tel. (09) 528 3459. Fax (09) 528 3419, 22
Lammermoor Drive, St Heliers, Auckland. Applications close 2 December, 2002

*****************

Part-time Parish Pastoral Co-ordinator, Maria Assumpta Parish,
Beachhaven, Auckland
Further details in 'NZ Catholic' Nov 17 2002, p.21 and from John Rooney,
Chairperson, Maria Assumpta Parish Council, PO Box 66-020, Beachhaven,
North Shore City 1310. Applications close 6 December 2002.

*****************

Live-in support Person, Mt Tabor Trust Inc., Helensville, Auckland
Full-time position working with people with intellectual disabilities in
the Grey Lynn area. Drivers licence essential. Please reply in writing
to Mike Popple, PO Box 121, Helensville. Tel: (09) 420-9701