*******************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
******************
'Wel-com' August 2003 (Archdiocese of Wellington and Diocese of Palmerston North) http://www.welcom.org.nz
Cardinal Tom Williams: How compassionate is euthanasia?
Bishop John Dew: Expressing the divine mystery "One of the highlights of my year is the Chrism Mass in Holy Week. I am not exaggerating when I say that it is a highlight and an event I look forward to each year. What it is that I look forward to is the annual Renewal of Commitment to Priestly Service..."
John Mitchell: Why foreshore and seabed issues came before the courts
ERO report on Catholic schools in New Zealand
Elizabeth Cameron and Fiona Mitchell: It's Cool 2 B Catholic "Although the weather was cold with woolly hats a plenty, Catholic teenagers from all over the country gathered together to activate and celebrate their faith...."
David Loving Molloy: Reflections on the Church’s approach to disability "I can remember during preparations for my ordination in Christchurch in 1989 that one of the concerns of the Bishop was that the interpreter would somehow get in the way of the ceremony..."
John Roughan: Overwhelming support for ANZACS from Solomon Island people "Poor schooling, weakened medical service, a destroyed economy and loss of confidence in national leaders have been their lot since 1998...."
Code of Ethics for Church Volunteers
When people leave the Church to find God! (Please note: this article does not have a link on the Wel-com home page. Click here to read it: http://tinyurl.com/k6qp "Use it or lose it. Anyone doing rehab has heard that expression. The joints and limbs and muscles we don’t use shrivel up and die. I sometimes wonder if the same doesn’t apply to parishes. Use the parish or lose the parish...."
*************************
'NZ Catholic' No 168, August 10-23, 2003
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
Enrolment policy means first in, first served for those who qualify Wellington - Enrolment preference for Catholic integrated schools will come into bold focus following the revised policy released last month...
Backlash helped to defeat bill Wellington - The Leader of the Opposition, Bill English, says he was surprised the Death with Dignity Bill was defeated on July 30, at its first reading in Parliament...
French friend of NZers is ordained bishop Auckland - A French priest close to the hearts of many New Zealanders was ordained a bishop in Paris on June 29...
**********************
Marist Messenger August 2003 http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz/index.php
Online in August's Messenger:
Readings: Daily Mass readings and devotional prayers
Links: Surf's up - this months recommended Websites to visit..... Extra reading - a selection of articles from online Catholic journals, magazines and papers..... Daily News from the Catholic world..... E-Cards Easter, Birthday, Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation, Wedding and Christmas cards.
Full-text from the August edition:
God is close to us, by Bishop Gerard Loft sm Bishop Loft from the Solomon Islands writes of the beauty of the Eucharist
Marist Spirituality by Fr Craig Larkin sm Mary never stands alone
Focus by Fr Carl Telford sm The Focus this month is about being grateful for the day
My problem with the Rosary by Kilian de Lacy Kilian de Lacy relates her journey to a deeper appreciation of this prayer
Marist Spirituality by Fr Allan Jones sm Marist spirituality is a ecclesial charism, so is an authentic way of living the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Also in the August Marist Messenger : Mary, a mother's journey .... Transubstantiation part 1 .... The healing Heart of Mary .... The Rosary ... God's love shining through me ... God is close to us ... A prayer story ... Time and money
*************************************
PNG archbishop seeks prayers for murdered Anglican Melanesian Brothers CathNews Australia http://www.cathnews.com/news/308/84.php Catholic Dioceses in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands have been asked to renew prayer this week for the six Melanesian Brothers and other victims of violence in the Solomon Islands....
Gifts from the heart for the pope: Humble items that speak volumes By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/20030808.htm VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- For 25 years Pope John Paul II has been holding audiences, greeting heads of state, traveling the world and receiving gifts on each occasion. More than 400 objects given to the pope -- most from his fellow Poles -- are part of an exhibit that opened in Poland in late July in preparation for the pope's silver jubilee in October....
****************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
Walking all the way with the condemned The Age (Melbourne) August 11, 2003 http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/08/08/1060145859806.html " ... But the question remains of how a nun (Sister Helen Prejean, the Louisiana nun work and book inspired the film "Dead Man Walking"), has dealt with her book being turned into a film and then into a contemporary opera that was a hit in San Francisco and has now been performed outside the US for the first time? "I am a servant," says Sister Helen, who has been in Australia for a fortnight and spoke during a visit last week to Adelaide's Yatala jail. "I came to help the opera because I want people to go through the journey of the story, so I do interviews. It's to be of service, because I know I can be a voice. I have stood in the presence of so much suffering"...
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4,750 Entry forms from "Art Competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 360 3069; E-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Related Website: NZ Art Monthly: 'Art and Faith' Competition http://www.nzartmonthly.co.nz/draper_002.html Background to the competition and a selection of entries from 2001
*************************************
Sunday, August 17, 2003
Sunday, August 3, 2003
***********************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
*******************
'NZ Catholic' No 167, July 27-August 10, 2003 http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz (There's a temporary glitch on the paper's home page. Please click the link "Top Stories" to see the headlines).
"Bishop of Christchurch has brain haemorrhage " Bishop John Cunneen is seriously ill in Christchurch Hospital after collapsing outside his car in suburban Christchurch early on the evening of July 17. He had pulled over when he noticed his car veering to the left, and was helped by passers-by...
"Groups set to fight assisted suicide bill " Church leaders, the pro-life movement, church groups and individuals are gearing up for a major fight against the Death with Dignity Bill...
"Abortion proposal disturbs " The Right to Life movement has given notice of its intention to mount a "vigorous campaign" to amend a section of the controversial Care of Children Bill...
***************
Solomon Islands - Catholic religious determined to help restore peace and reconciliation where people still suffer because of civil war http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2003/0307/28_539.html Honiara (Fides Service) The Catholic religious of Solomon Island are committed to help stop ethnic fighting by fostering reconciliation and help rebuild a culture of peace and non-violence. This resolution was taken during a "Forum for Religious" meeting for the second time this year....
Caritas keeps eye on Solomons http://www.cathnews.com/news/307/179.php Caritas Australia has sent representatives to the Solomon Islands in a bid to ensure the presence of the Australian-led peace-keeping force in the troubled country does not exacerbate the existing climate of gun violence....
Poland - Eight thousand Catholic scouts and guides from 19 European nations at Eurojam for the first time in Poland, where scouting was banned until 1989 http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2003/0307/31_572.html Zelazko (Fides Service) More than 8,000 scouts and guides between 11 and 16 years of age are taking part in the 6th International Rally of Catholic Scouts from 1-12 August in Zelazko in Poland...
Sounding Board: "Why I don't parish shop " U.S. Catholic 2003 http://www.uscatholic.org/2003/11/sb0311.htm Countering the current trend to shop around until you find a parish that fits you, Peter Feuerherd makes the case for sticking with your neighborhood community. He argues that everyone loses when Catholics see churches as one more consumer choice....
"Los Angeles Cardinal says Bob Hope died a Catholic " http://www.cathnews.com/news/307/169.php Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles issued a statement on Monday expressing his joy that entertainer Bob Hope died a Catholic....
************************************
NEW CDF DOCUMENT & LOCAL REACTIONS
Congregation For The Doctrine Of The Faith "Considerations regarding proposals to give legal recognition to unions between homosexual persons"
Short link: http://tinyurl.com/imqm Actual link: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_d\ oc_20030731_homosexual-unions_en.html
"MP supports call to reject gay marriages" (audio interview) Newstalk ZB 01/08/2003 http://xtramsn.co.nz/musicandvideo/0,,6081-2558001-25,00.html United Future MP Gordon Copeland tells Newstalk ZB's Tim Dower why he supports a call by the Vatican to condemn moves to legalise gay marriages
"NZ Gay MPs disapprove of Vatican's call to lawmakers to oppose same-sex marriages; United Future MP backs the call " NZ City 2 Aug 2003 http://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/default.asp?id=33896 [Brief comments by MPS Chris Carter, Tim Barnett and Gordon Copeland]
*******************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Tapu Misa: The treaty conversation that just goes round in circles " NZ Herald 30.07.2003 http://tinyurl.com/iuon Robert Consedine is a middle-aged Pakeha of Irish Catholic whakapapa, who grew up in Addington, Christchurch, where he did not come into contact with many Maori. His awakening didn't come until the 1981 Springbok Tour, when in the course of civil disobedience he discovered how difficult it was for a white, middle-class male to get arrested. What he went on to find about the country's history propelled him into the work he does today: educating his fellow Pakeha about the Treaty of Waitangi and our colonial history....
******************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
"Coffee Break" http://www.catholictv.net/news/coffee56k.html
A new series of informal conversations between Fr Peter Roe SM and a guest, over a cuppa. This week, Peter's guest is Kim von Lanthen, a corporate manager at ANZ Bank.
**************************************
JOSHUA CATHOLIC MEN'S FELLOWSHIP
Newsletter Aug.-Sept. 2003 http://www.joshuamen.orcon.net.nz/news/news.htm
Contents summary:
Editorial - "Remember - Interesting word that. Have you recently reflected on something from your past; on how it happened, how you reacted, what you experienced, what you learnt from it, etc? This word was brought up at the Christchurch Joshua retreat by Father Bruce McGill. It has brought me a lot of enjoyment ever since. I m taking the time to REMEMBER and appreciate things as never before ....
Retreat shines under the mountain : Scott Base in Antarctica would be proud of the welcome that Mt Taranaki gave the 100 men who gathered from all over the North Island. The theme Restoration N Revival fittingly described the transformation in the men as the weekend progressed. The rain and penetrating cold of Friday was replaced by a spectacular display of grace and beauty on the Sunday. Strangers became friends. Friends became brothers and then brothers became disciples....
Draw Near To Worship September 5-6 2003 St Joseph s, Takapuna, Auckland A free conference sharing and experiencing wisdom, knowledge and healing worship...
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4,750 Entry forms from "Art Competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 360 3069; E-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
*******************
'NZ Catholic' No 167, July 27-August 10, 2003 http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz (There's a temporary glitch on the paper's home page. Please click the link "Top Stories" to see the headlines).
"Bishop of Christchurch has brain haemorrhage " Bishop John Cunneen is seriously ill in Christchurch Hospital after collapsing outside his car in suburban Christchurch early on the evening of July 17. He had pulled over when he noticed his car veering to the left, and was helped by passers-by...
"Groups set to fight assisted suicide bill " Church leaders, the pro-life movement, church groups and individuals are gearing up for a major fight against the Death with Dignity Bill...
"Abortion proposal disturbs " The Right to Life movement has given notice of its intention to mount a "vigorous campaign" to amend a section of the controversial Care of Children Bill...
***************
Solomon Islands - Catholic religious determined to help restore peace and reconciliation where people still suffer because of civil war http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2003/0307/28_539.html Honiara (Fides Service) The Catholic religious of Solomon Island are committed to help stop ethnic fighting by fostering reconciliation and help rebuild a culture of peace and non-violence. This resolution was taken during a "Forum for Religious" meeting for the second time this year....
Caritas keeps eye on Solomons http://www.cathnews.com/news/307/179.php Caritas Australia has sent representatives to the Solomon Islands in a bid to ensure the presence of the Australian-led peace-keeping force in the troubled country does not exacerbate the existing climate of gun violence....
Poland - Eight thousand Catholic scouts and guides from 19 European nations at Eurojam for the first time in Poland, where scouting was banned until 1989 http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2003/0307/31_572.html Zelazko (Fides Service) More than 8,000 scouts and guides between 11 and 16 years of age are taking part in the 6th International Rally of Catholic Scouts from 1-12 August in Zelazko in Poland...
Sounding Board: "Why I don't parish shop " U.S. Catholic 2003 http://www.uscatholic.org/2003/11/sb0311.htm Countering the current trend to shop around until you find a parish that fits you, Peter Feuerherd makes the case for sticking with your neighborhood community. He argues that everyone loses when Catholics see churches as one more consumer choice....
"Los Angeles Cardinal says Bob Hope died a Catholic " http://www.cathnews.com/news/307/169.php Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles issued a statement on Monday expressing his joy that entertainer Bob Hope died a Catholic....
************************************
NEW CDF DOCUMENT & LOCAL REACTIONS
Congregation For The Doctrine Of The Faith "Considerations regarding proposals to give legal recognition to unions between homosexual persons"
Short link: http://tinyurl.com/imqm Actual link: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_d\ oc_20030731_homosexual-unions_en.html
"MP supports call to reject gay marriages" (audio interview) Newstalk ZB 01/08/2003 http://xtramsn.co.nz/musicandvideo/0,,6081-2558001-25,00.html United Future MP Gordon Copeland tells Newstalk ZB's Tim Dower why he supports a call by the Vatican to condemn moves to legalise gay marriages
"NZ Gay MPs disapprove of Vatican's call to lawmakers to oppose same-sex marriages; United Future MP backs the call " NZ City 2 Aug 2003 http://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/default.asp?id=33896 [Brief comments by MPS Chris Carter, Tim Barnett and Gordon Copeland]
*******************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Tapu Misa: The treaty conversation that just goes round in circles " NZ Herald 30.07.2003 http://tinyurl.com/iuon Robert Consedine is a middle-aged Pakeha of Irish Catholic whakapapa, who grew up in Addington, Christchurch, where he did not come into contact with many Maori. His awakening didn't come until the 1981 Springbok Tour, when in the course of civil disobedience he discovered how difficult it was for a white, middle-class male to get arrested. What he went on to find about the country's history propelled him into the work he does today: educating his fellow Pakeha about the Treaty of Waitangi and our colonial history....
******************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
"Coffee Break" http://www.catholictv.net/news/coffee56k.html
A new series of informal conversations between Fr Peter Roe SM and a guest, over a cuppa. This week, Peter's guest is Kim von Lanthen, a corporate manager at ANZ Bank.
**************************************
JOSHUA CATHOLIC MEN'S FELLOWSHIP
Newsletter Aug.-Sept. 2003 http://www.joshuamen.orcon.net.nz/news/news.htm
Contents summary:
Editorial - "Remember - Interesting word that. Have you recently reflected on something from your past; on how it happened, how you reacted, what you experienced, what you learnt from it, etc? This word was brought up at the Christchurch Joshua retreat by Father Bruce McGill. It has brought me a lot of enjoyment ever since. I m taking the time to REMEMBER and appreciate things as never before ....
Retreat shines under the mountain : Scott Base in Antarctica would be proud of the welcome that Mt Taranaki gave the 100 men who gathered from all over the North Island. The theme Restoration N Revival fittingly described the transformation in the men as the weekend progressed. The rain and penetrating cold of Friday was replaced by a spectacular display of grace and beauty on the Sunday. Strangers became friends. Friends became brothers and then brothers became disciples....
Draw Near To Worship September 5-6 2003 St Joseph s, Takapuna, Auckland A free conference sharing and experiencing wisdom, knowledge and healing worship...
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4,750 Entry forms from "Art Competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 360 3069; E-mail: catholic@iconz.co.nz
Sunday, July 27, 2003
***************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
http://catholictv.net
** Peter Roe talks to 15-year-old Scots College pupil Patrick Kelleher about the national Catholic youth gathering "Activate Celebrate" held recently in Christchurch.
** Br Pat Lynch (NZ Catholic Education Office) delivers his monthly report on Catholic schools, including the recent ERO review
** News Spot: Catholictv.net remembers Msgr Bernard Edward Tottman, who passed away earlier this month
********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Fire victim 'a modern-day Sir Galahad' seeking peace " NZ Herald 23.07.2003 http://tinyurl.com/i3tm Maria de Silva was described as a modern-day Sir Galahad at her funeral yesterday for the way she championed the cause of the mentally ill like herself. The service for the Aotea Square fire victim was held at St Patrick's Cathedral in the city where Ms de Silva's parents had married....
"Sex abuse investigation dropped against two Catholic brothers " Fairfax NZ 23 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2577296a11,00.html New Zealand police have dropped investigations against two Catholic brothers in Australia. But they are pursuing action against four Sydney-based brothers from the St John of God Order, asking them to return voluntarily to face charges in New Zealand...
"Catholic Mass modified. Communion, kneeling, laypeople rules change" Milwaukee Journal Sentinal July 26, 2003 http://www.jsonline.com/lifestyle/religion/jul03/157729.asp The Archdiocese of Milwaukee is preparing Catholics throughout its 10-county area for changes in when they kneel at Mass, how they act when receiving Holy Communion and when lay people who help distribute the consecrated bread and wine may approach the priest and the altar....
"Pope Health in Spotlight as Heatwave Grips Italy" ABC News July 23 http://abcnews.go.com/wire/World/reuters20030723_258.html CASTELGANDOLFO, Italy (Reuters) - When Pope John Paul was wheeled into the courtyard of his summer residence Wednesday, thousands of people anxiously fixed their eyes on him to see how he would hold up during his general audience. The pontiff's health seems to have worsened in recent weeks and as temperatures soar in a relentless Italian heatwave so rumors fly about his frail condition....
****************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
"Growing through divorce --- with help" The Tidings (Los Angeles Archdiocese) Friday, July 18, 2003 http://www.the-tidings.com/2003/0718/divorcemain.htm "God loves divorced people. God takes something bad in your life and makes something good out of it." In 28 years of ministry to separated and divorced Christians, that's been the central message of Jim Smoke, the Southern California Presbyterian pioneer on divorce recovery who was in Los Angeles last weekend to lead a training day for some 60 parish-based support group leaders, sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Family Life....
"Little Flower on the Big Screen" (interview) Catholic.net July 16, 2003 http://www.catholic.net/beauty_and_truth/template_channel.phtml?channel_id=4 Lindsay Younce never expected to play Thérèse of Lisieux in a major motion picture. Twenty-one-year-old Younce grew up in Vancouver, Wash., in the Society of Friends (Quakers). In May 2001 she entered the Catholic Church. A graduate of Oregon’s George Fox University, Younce has performed in approximately 15 plays. Her most recent role is as the star of St. Luke Production’s motion picture Thérèse. The film will open in theaters in October. Younce spoke to Register features correspondent Tim Drake about what it was like to portray a saint....
****************************************
NEW WEB SITE
Auckland Catholic Charismatic Renewal http://www.catholiccharismatic.org.nz
" ... We have a team able to help prayer groups or Parish organizations who would like to host a Life in the Spirit Seminar, which is designed as a help to people wishing to deepen their relationship with the three persons of the Trinity. There are also seminars to help people understand and grow in the "gifts" of the Holy Spirit. We host Healing Masses at St Patrick's Cathedral three or four times per year, and these are advertised through Parish notice boards and newsletters. We have some prayer teams available to minister healing prayer on an individual basis, and these can be contacted by ringing our office at St Joseph's Centre, Takapuna."
Contact: Auckland Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office, St Joseph’s Centre, 1 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, Auckland 9. E-mail: accrservicegroup@yahoo.com
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
*************************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
http://catholictv.net
** Peter Roe talks to 15-year-old Scots College pupil Patrick Kelleher about the national Catholic youth gathering "Activate Celebrate" held recently in Christchurch.
** Br Pat Lynch (NZ Catholic Education Office) delivers his monthly report on Catholic schools, including the recent ERO review
** News Spot: Catholictv.net remembers Msgr Bernard Edward Tottman, who passed away earlier this month
********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Fire victim 'a modern-day Sir Galahad' seeking peace " NZ Herald 23.07.2003 http://tinyurl.com/i3tm Maria de Silva was described as a modern-day Sir Galahad at her funeral yesterday for the way she championed the cause of the mentally ill like herself. The service for the Aotea Square fire victim was held at St Patrick's Cathedral in the city where Ms de Silva's parents had married....
"Sex abuse investigation dropped against two Catholic brothers " Fairfax NZ 23 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2577296a11,00.html New Zealand police have dropped investigations against two Catholic brothers in Australia. But they are pursuing action against four Sydney-based brothers from the St John of God Order, asking them to return voluntarily to face charges in New Zealand...
"Catholic Mass modified. Communion, kneeling, laypeople rules change" Milwaukee Journal Sentinal July 26, 2003 http://www.jsonline.com/lifestyle/religion/jul03/157729.asp The Archdiocese of Milwaukee is preparing Catholics throughout its 10-county area for changes in when they kneel at Mass, how they act when receiving Holy Communion and when lay people who help distribute the consecrated bread and wine may approach the priest and the altar....
"Pope Health in Spotlight as Heatwave Grips Italy" ABC News July 23 http://abcnews.go.com/wire/World/reuters20030723_258.html CASTELGANDOLFO, Italy (Reuters) - When Pope John Paul was wheeled into the courtyard of his summer residence Wednesday, thousands of people anxiously fixed their eyes on him to see how he would hold up during his general audience. The pontiff's health seems to have worsened in recent weeks and as temperatures soar in a relentless Italian heatwave so rumors fly about his frail condition....
****************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
"Growing through divorce --- with help" The Tidings (Los Angeles Archdiocese) Friday, July 18, 2003 http://www.the-tidings.com/2003/0718/divorcemain.htm "God loves divorced people. God takes something bad in your life and makes something good out of it." In 28 years of ministry to separated and divorced Christians, that's been the central message of Jim Smoke, the Southern California Presbyterian pioneer on divorce recovery who was in Los Angeles last weekend to lead a training day for some 60 parish-based support group leaders, sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Family Life....
"Little Flower on the Big Screen" (interview) Catholic.net July 16, 2003 http://www.catholic.net/beauty_and_truth/template_channel.phtml?channel_id=4 Lindsay Younce never expected to play Thérèse of Lisieux in a major motion picture. Twenty-one-year-old Younce grew up in Vancouver, Wash., in the Society of Friends (Quakers). In May 2001 she entered the Catholic Church. A graduate of Oregon’s George Fox University, Younce has performed in approximately 15 plays. Her most recent role is as the star of St. Luke Production’s motion picture Thérèse. The film will open in theaters in October. Younce spoke to Register features correspondent Tim Drake about what it was like to portray a saint....
****************************************
NEW WEB SITE
Auckland Catholic Charismatic Renewal http://www.catholiccharismatic.org.nz
" ... We have a team able to help prayer groups or Parish organizations who would like to host a Life in the Spirit Seminar, which is designed as a help to people wishing to deepen their relationship with the three persons of the Trinity. There are also seminars to help people understand and grow in the "gifts" of the Holy Spirit. We host Healing Masses at St Patrick's Cathedral three or four times per year, and these are advertised through Parish notice boards and newsletters. We have some prayer teams available to minister healing prayer on an individual basis, and these can be contacted by ringing our office at St Joseph's Centre, Takapuna."
Contact: Auckland Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office, St Joseph’s Centre, 1 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, Auckland 9. E-mail: accrservicegroup@yahoo.com
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
*************************************
Sunday, July 20, 2003
**********************************
'Wel-com' (Archdiocese of wellington and diocese of Palmerston north) July 2003 http://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/wellington/news/index.html
New Zealand troops offer a last chance for the Solomon Islands.... Church trust fund offers help to those with an unintended pregnancy.... It was Christ who called us to visit those in prisons.... Special feature: Values - Has modern New Zealand's moral fabric been damaged beyond repair. Give your opinion.... The church's call to bring peace. A reflection by Bishop John Dew..... Wellington composer's commitment to bi-culturalism..... The changing context of mission in New Zealand
***************************
"Healing Power of Prayer" (photo) The Catholic Leader (Brisbane) 20 July, 2003 http://www.catholicleader.com.au/index.php?pgnum=2.5 New Zealand Marist Father John Rea's healing ministry is attracting crowds wherever he goes...
Another fixer-upper for O'Malley Franciscan bishop's appointment to Boston seen as a welcome surprise National Catholic Reporter July 18, 2003 http://www.natcath.org/NCR_Online/archives2/2003c/071803/071803a.php Boston Archbishop-elect Sean O’Malley need not look beyond the tradition of his Franciscan religious order for a job description: “Go rebuild my church which, as you can see, is falling to ruin.” O’Malley’s task appears no less daunting than that of St Francis himself. He inherits a 2 million-member archdiocese fairly described as approaching ruin: Mass attendance at record lows, lay activists clamoring for a greater role in church affairs, contributions plummeting, a clergy unafraid to publicly question its leaders, and, not least, more than 500 pending sexual abuse claims against the archdiocese....
Michael Novak's Recipe for a Civilization of Love. His "Caritapolis" as the City of the Future Zenit 2003-07-17 http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=38990 Krakow, Poland, July 17, 2003 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II has called democratic nations to overcome materialism and consumerism and to erect a "civilization of love." In response to this call, Michael Novak, the George Frederick Jewett Scholar in Religion and Public Policy at the American Enterprise Institute, has developed a series of lectures which he entitles, "The Caritapolis." The lectures are a primary component of the curriculum for the "Tertio Millennio Seminar on the Free Society," held every July in Krakow. The seminar brings American and Eastern European students together to discuss the challenges of building a global system of freedom and prosperity. In an interview with ZENIT, Novak described some of the important features of the caritapolis....
********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
*********************
"Catholic schools up to state standards – ERO" NZPA 16 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2570440a7694,00.html Education standards are as good at Roman Catholic schools as other New Zealand state schools, an Education Review Office (ERO) report shows....
"Catholic schools report pleases " Otago Daily Times 16-July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg12
Education Review Office. "Catholic schools in New Zealand" (full text): http://www.ero.govt.nz/Publications/pubs2003/CatholicSchoolsJun03.doc
*******************
"Catholic rolls rise by third " Sunday Star Times 18 July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg18 A rising number of parents are opting to give their children a "moral" education, according to the New Zealand Catholic Education Office. The office has released figures showing its Auckland primary schools experienced roll growth of 32 per cent in the last decade, while secondary schools grew 31 per cent....
"Christchurch Catholic Cathedral area of city should go ahead" MyTown.co.nz/Christchurch Star July 19 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg1d A high profile Christchurch architect is calling for a major overhaul of the area surrounding the Catholic Cathedral in Barbadoes St- a call which is being supported by some city councilors. Don Donnithorne of Don Donnithorne Architects, believes the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament needs to be given its rightful place in the city as one of the finest buildings in the southern hemisphere....
"Law to give gays civil union rights " Dominion Post 17 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2571569a11,00.html The Government is poised to allow gay couples to officially say "I do" and get the same legal rights as married people. A Civil Union Bill, being drafted, will create a new relationship status for same-sex and heterosexual couples by legalising and registering civil unions.... [report includes comments by Bishop Peter Cullinane and the United Future Party's leader Peter Dunne]
"Sister Pauline O'Regan a voice for Catholic sisters living in the community" NZine 11/07/03 http://www.nzine.co.nz/views/oregan.html [An article-length review of Sr O'Regans autobiography "A Changing Order" (1986), followed by paragraph length notes on five other books by the same author].
****************************************
EDUCATION
"Good News & the News". Broadsheet of good practice in integrated schools (NZ Catholic Education Office) July 2003 http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/goodnews/16/goodnews16.shtml
Editorial: Explicit values, the most important gift we can give our students ... The Virtues of Peace and Solidarity ... This year’s Lenten theme, ‘Peace is the Fruit of Justice,’ in Catholic school ... Catholic Schools’ Day celebrations .... Villa Maria College students hold their Live Tall’ award..... Bringing Our Values Alive at St Francis Xavier School, Tawa .... The Fruits of the Spirit, Sacred Heart School, Timaru..... Marist Youth Leadership Course – a Joint Schools’ Activity at St John's College, Hastings....... The Virtues Programme at St Pius X School, Titahi Bay.... Values in Action at St Joseph’s School, Otahuhu... St Dominic’s College, Henderson, The Living Values Project.... Emotional Needs and Values Programme at Holy Cross School Henderson
*********************************
MARIST BROTHERS' NEWSLETTERS
(Special thanks to our faithful forum member for monitoring the Marist Website and writing up these notes for our readers. ML)
"Champagnat" Volume 7 Number 2 June 2003 http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz/CNJune20031.htm A newsletter for Boards of Trustees and Staff of Marist Schools and Schools with Marist traditions in New Zealand. This makes a good read. Achievements of various Colleges over the past term are acknowledged - some great causes of celebration........ The centennial at Sacred Heart College, Auckland is described, and for past pupils will have special significance. Some wonderful new buildings were blessed and opened on this occasion......... 75th Jubilee of Hato Petera College, Northcote is also described with special reference to the wonderful contribution of the Mill Hill Fathers....... An item written by Michelle Murphy describes her background before coming to teach at a Marist college, but her main emphasis is on getting to know the founder. This makes a good and inspirational read.
"MYAM Notes" Winter 2003 http://www.myam.org.nz/MNWinter20031.htm The quarterly newsletter of Marist Young Adult Ministry, Aotearoa-New Zealand
There is a beautiful article on forgiveness - I quote the last paragraph:
"Ultimately, forgiveness is a gift of grace rather than an act of will. I can forgive with my mind, but forgiveness is finally a matter of the heart. And the forgiveness of the heart comes from God, not from me. My part is to be willing to accept it. And remember, I have to learn to forgive myself, before God, for what I perceive as offences against his love and law. Jesus¹ prayer on the cross, ³Father, forgive them, they don¹t know what they are doing,² applies as much to us as to those crucifying him. It¹s a gift from God. God LOVES and FORGIVES us."
There is an article on the residents at The Grove - a diversity of backgrounds among the young people, but all wishing to live in a Christian Community. A great read..... A.P.C. Know what it means?? Absolutely positively Catholic. This article describes a conference held in Wellington for young adults - they certainly have their heads screwed on right and wish to be positive about their faith.
*************************************
NEW COMPENDIUM OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. "The Social Agenda" (full text) http://www.thesocialagenda.com "Students, teachers, and all those who seek a better knowledge of the social doctrine of the Church will find contained within this collection the central statements of the Roman Pontiffs from a range of texts, including papal encyclicals, apostolic letters, and Conciliar documents, on matters relating to politics, economics, and culture."
"The selections are arranged thematically according to the significant subject areas of Catholic social doctrine. Under each subject heading, the quotations appear in pedagogical — as opposed to chronological or magisterial — order, with each subject area opening with a quotation that explains the issue at hand."
*******************************************
NEW WEBSITE
Catholic Enquiry Centre http://www.catholic-enquiry-centre.org.nz
The CEC is the New Zealand bishops' outreach to people who are - for any reason at all - curious about the Catholic Church, including inactive Catholics who are considering coming home to their community of faith.
The Centre's Website has recently been re-launched at the above address, with a smart new design and an abundance of content, taking full advantage of the rich treasury of Catholic resources on the Internet. Over several pages, the Website describes Catholic history, beliefs and practices at a level which is comprehensive but not encyclopedic. The main sections of the site are headed: About the Catholic Enquiry Centre... Who are Catholics? ... Catholic Beliefs ... Our history .. Prayer... How to find out more
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
*************************************
'Wel-com' (Archdiocese of wellington and diocese of Palmerston north) July 2003 http://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/wellington/news/index.html
New Zealand troops offer a last chance for the Solomon Islands.... Church trust fund offers help to those with an unintended pregnancy.... It was Christ who called us to visit those in prisons.... Special feature: Values - Has modern New Zealand's moral fabric been damaged beyond repair. Give your opinion.... The church's call to bring peace. A reflection by Bishop John Dew..... Wellington composer's commitment to bi-culturalism..... The changing context of mission in New Zealand
***************************
"Healing Power of Prayer" (photo) The Catholic Leader (Brisbane) 20 July, 2003 http://www.catholicleader.com.au/index.php?pgnum=2.5 New Zealand Marist Father John Rea's healing ministry is attracting crowds wherever he goes...
Another fixer-upper for O'Malley Franciscan bishop's appointment to Boston seen as a welcome surprise National Catholic Reporter July 18, 2003 http://www.natcath.org/NCR_Online/archives2/2003c/071803/071803a.php Boston Archbishop-elect Sean O’Malley need not look beyond the tradition of his Franciscan religious order for a job description: “Go rebuild my church which, as you can see, is falling to ruin.” O’Malley’s task appears no less daunting than that of St Francis himself. He inherits a 2 million-member archdiocese fairly described as approaching ruin: Mass attendance at record lows, lay activists clamoring for a greater role in church affairs, contributions plummeting, a clergy unafraid to publicly question its leaders, and, not least, more than 500 pending sexual abuse claims against the archdiocese....
Michael Novak's Recipe for a Civilization of Love. His "Caritapolis" as the City of the Future Zenit 2003-07-17 http://zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=38990 Krakow, Poland, July 17, 2003 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II has called democratic nations to overcome materialism and consumerism and to erect a "civilization of love." In response to this call, Michael Novak, the George Frederick Jewett Scholar in Religion and Public Policy at the American Enterprise Institute, has developed a series of lectures which he entitles, "The Caritapolis." The lectures are a primary component of the curriculum for the "Tertio Millennio Seminar on the Free Society," held every July in Krakow. The seminar brings American and Eastern European students together to discuss the challenges of building a global system of freedom and prosperity. In an interview with ZENIT, Novak described some of the important features of the caritapolis....
********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
*********************
"Catholic schools up to state standards – ERO" NZPA 16 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2570440a7694,00.html Education standards are as good at Roman Catholic schools as other New Zealand state schools, an Education Review Office (ERO) report shows....
"Catholic schools report pleases " Otago Daily Times 16-July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg12
Education Review Office. "Catholic schools in New Zealand" (full text): http://www.ero.govt.nz/Publications/pubs2003/CatholicSchoolsJun03.doc
*******************
"Catholic rolls rise by third " Sunday Star Times 18 July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg18 A rising number of parents are opting to give their children a "moral" education, according to the New Zealand Catholic Education Office. The office has released figures showing its Auckland primary schools experienced roll growth of 32 per cent in the last decade, while secondary schools grew 31 per cent....
"Christchurch Catholic Cathedral area of city should go ahead" MyTown.co.nz/Christchurch Star July 19 2003 http://tinyurl.com/hg1d A high profile Christchurch architect is calling for a major overhaul of the area surrounding the Catholic Cathedral in Barbadoes St- a call which is being supported by some city councilors. Don Donnithorne of Don Donnithorne Architects, believes the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament needs to be given its rightful place in the city as one of the finest buildings in the southern hemisphere....
"Law to give gays civil union rights " Dominion Post 17 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2571569a11,00.html The Government is poised to allow gay couples to officially say "I do" and get the same legal rights as married people. A Civil Union Bill, being drafted, will create a new relationship status for same-sex and heterosexual couples by legalising and registering civil unions.... [report includes comments by Bishop Peter Cullinane and the United Future Party's leader Peter Dunne]
"Sister Pauline O'Regan a voice for Catholic sisters living in the community" NZine 11/07/03 http://www.nzine.co.nz/views/oregan.html [An article-length review of Sr O'Regans autobiography "A Changing Order" (1986), followed by paragraph length notes on five other books by the same author].
****************************************
EDUCATION
"Good News & the News". Broadsheet of good practice in integrated schools (NZ Catholic Education Office) July 2003 http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/goodnews/16/goodnews16.shtml
Editorial: Explicit values, the most important gift we can give our students ... The Virtues of Peace and Solidarity ... This year’s Lenten theme, ‘Peace is the Fruit of Justice,’ in Catholic school ... Catholic Schools’ Day celebrations .... Villa Maria College students hold their Live Tall’ award..... Bringing Our Values Alive at St Francis Xavier School, Tawa .... The Fruits of the Spirit, Sacred Heart School, Timaru..... Marist Youth Leadership Course – a Joint Schools’ Activity at St John's College, Hastings....... The Virtues Programme at St Pius X School, Titahi Bay.... Values in Action at St Joseph’s School, Otahuhu... St Dominic’s College, Henderson, The Living Values Project.... Emotional Needs and Values Programme at Holy Cross School Henderson
*********************************
MARIST BROTHERS' NEWSLETTERS
(Special thanks to our faithful forum member for monitoring the Marist Website and writing up these notes for our readers. ML)
"Champagnat" Volume 7 Number 2 June 2003 http://www.maristbrothers.org.nz/CNJune20031.htm A newsletter for Boards of Trustees and Staff of Marist Schools and Schools with Marist traditions in New Zealand. This makes a good read. Achievements of various Colleges over the past term are acknowledged - some great causes of celebration........ The centennial at Sacred Heart College, Auckland is described, and for past pupils will have special significance. Some wonderful new buildings were blessed and opened on this occasion......... 75th Jubilee of Hato Petera College, Northcote is also described with special reference to the wonderful contribution of the Mill Hill Fathers....... An item written by Michelle Murphy describes her background before coming to teach at a Marist college, but her main emphasis is on getting to know the founder. This makes a good and inspirational read.
"MYAM Notes" Winter 2003 http://www.myam.org.nz/MNWinter20031.htm The quarterly newsletter of Marist Young Adult Ministry, Aotearoa-New Zealand
There is a beautiful article on forgiveness - I quote the last paragraph:
"Ultimately, forgiveness is a gift of grace rather than an act of will. I can forgive with my mind, but forgiveness is finally a matter of the heart. And the forgiveness of the heart comes from God, not from me. My part is to be willing to accept it. And remember, I have to learn to forgive myself, before God, for what I perceive as offences against his love and law. Jesus¹ prayer on the cross, ³Father, forgive them, they don¹t know what they are doing,² applies as much to us as to those crucifying him. It¹s a gift from God. God LOVES and FORGIVES us."
There is an article on the residents at The Grove - a diversity of backgrounds among the young people, but all wishing to live in a Christian Community. A great read..... A.P.C. Know what it means?? Absolutely positively Catholic. This article describes a conference held in Wellington for young adults - they certainly have their heads screwed on right and wish to be positive about their faith.
*************************************
NEW COMPENDIUM OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING
Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. "The Social Agenda" (full text) http://www.thesocialagenda.com "Students, teachers, and all those who seek a better knowledge of the social doctrine of the Church will find contained within this collection the central statements of the Roman Pontiffs from a range of texts, including papal encyclicals, apostolic letters, and Conciliar documents, on matters relating to politics, economics, and culture."
"The selections are arranged thematically according to the significant subject areas of Catholic social doctrine. Under each subject heading, the quotations appear in pedagogical — as opposed to chronological or magisterial — order, with each subject area opening with a quotation that explains the issue at hand."
*******************************************
NEW WEBSITE
Catholic Enquiry Centre http://www.catholic-enquiry-centre.org.nz
The CEC is the New Zealand bishops' outreach to people who are - for any reason at all - curious about the Catholic Church, including inactive Catholics who are considering coming home to their community of faith.
The Centre's Website has recently been re-launched at the above address, with a smart new design and an abundance of content, taking full advantage of the rich treasury of Catholic resources on the Internet. Over several pages, the Website describes Catholic history, beliefs and practices at a level which is comprehensive but not encyclopedic. The main sections of the site are headed: About the Catholic Enquiry Centre... Who are Catholics? ... Catholic Beliefs ... Our history .. Prayer... How to find out more
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
*************************************
Sunday, July 13, 2003
*******************************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
http://www.catholictv.net
New interviews:
** Simon Routon, Director of Religious Studies at St Catherine's College, Wellington, on the value of the Catholic school to its pupils and teachers
** Fr Chris Skinner, the Minstrel Priest, describes his musical apostolate
** Students of St Patrick's College, Silverstream, give their views on the value of a Catholic school
*********************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
"A Knockabout Priest", by Peter Norden SJ "Madonna" Magazine (Aust.) July 2003 http://www.madonnamagazine.com.au/articles/0307brosnan.html The bluestone walls of Pentridge Prison were designed to break the spirit of the strongest and most violent members of our community. But one man who walked the corridors there for thirty years was made the stronger and the wiser for it: Father John Brosnan, the knockabout priest...
"Death — it's a part of life " U.S. Catholic, July 2003 http://www.uscatholic.org/2003/07/cov0307.htm Myles Sheehan has two jobs that cause him to walk with death on a regular basis: One, he's a doctor specializing in the care of old people; two, he's a Jesuit priest. Doctors often skirt the issue of death just as the rest of us do, he says, and care of the dying suffers as a result. Sheehan has set out to change that, by advising medical schools and hospitals on end-of-life care. How did he end up being both a Jesuit and a doctor? ....
"New US man in Iraq is sustained by his faith" Total Catholic http://tinyurl.com/gpq4 The new US-installed administrator of Iraq has spoken publicly and movingly of how his Catholic faith is a source of inspiration for him in his testing mission. "There is no doubt in my mind that I cannot succeed in this mission without the help of God," said L Paul Bremer III, a veteran diplomat and anti-terrorism expert....
***************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Catholic schools buck trend. Otago rolls steady" Otago Daily Times 10 July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/gpq6 Dunedin Catholic diocesan school rolls are steady while other schools are experiencing a downward trend, New Zealand Catholic Education Office chief executive Pat Lynch says...
"Rugby stalwart and family man " Southland Times 01 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/southlandtimes/0,2106,2555332a6565,00.html At a packed St Mary's Basilica in Invercargill, Bert Winders' enormous reach was measured in some way by the hundreds who came to celebrate a life built around the touchstones of family and God, his wife Marie and eight children. He was a founding member of the Southland branch of the Society for the Protection of the Unborn Child, first secretary-treasurer (1972) of the Southland Council for Racial Harmony, vice-president of the Marist Rugby Football Club, a member of the Catholic Church's Knights of the Southern Cross...
********************************************
NEW WEBSITES
***************************
Te Ngakau Waiora. Mercy Spirituality Centre http://www.mercycentreauckland.org.nz
Te Ngakau Waiora Mercy Spirituality Centre in Epsom, Auckland "seeks to create a place for learning and a deepening relationship with God which fosters the inner search leading to hohourongo - personal, social and spiritual renewal".
The Centre offers: Retreats ... Spiritual direction / spiritual companionship ... Professional supervision ... Programmes and workshops on spirituality and prayer ... Bio-spiritual focusing ... Enneagram and Myers Briggs ... Regular group meditation ... Venue for organisational retreat days, seminars and meetings
*************************
The Carpenter Project http://www.thecarpenterproject.co.nz
"The Carpenter Project is helping to create a new church and community facility on a prominent site in Wellington, New Zealand. It replaces a set of relocated buildings which the St Joseph's parish began using as a temporary church in 1945! The award-winning Studio of Pacific Architecture was selected in 2001 with a brief to create a facility that is on the edge of change, modest and simple, open to the community. They have responded brilliantly with a design that is sure to win national and international acclaim. Standing at the eastern portal of the Mt Victoria tunnel - in the historic precinct shared by Government House, Wellington College and the Basin Reserve - the new building will provide a stunning visual welcome for visitors to the capital city."
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August
For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz
Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
By way of background: Reflecting its Spanish origins, the official name of this movement is "Cursillo de Christiandad" which means "short course in living Christianity". "Cursillo" is pronounced "Cur-see-yo". A person who has attended a Cursillo Three Days is called a Cursillista ("cur-see-ista"). The Cursillo Movement began before the Second World War on the island of Majorca, Spain, when, through dissatisfaction with spiritual lukewarmness in the church, a group of men began to pray, talk and work together to find a way to bring people to Christ. The answer was to run short courses to train Christian leaders. The first Cursillo was held on the island of Majorca in 1949. It soon spread to the mainland of Spain. The first English language Cursillo was held in Texas U.S.A., in 1961, and today Cursillos are held all over the world in both Anglican and Roman Catholic Dioceses under the direction of their Bishops.
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
**********************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
http://www.catholictv.net
New interviews:
** Simon Routon, Director of Religious Studies at St Catherine's College, Wellington, on the value of the Catholic school to its pupils and teachers
** Fr Chris Skinner, the Minstrel Priest, describes his musical apostolate
** Students of St Patrick's College, Silverstream, give their views on the value of a Catholic school
*********************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
"A Knockabout Priest", by Peter Norden SJ "Madonna" Magazine (Aust.) July 2003 http://www.madonnamagazine.com.au/articles/0307brosnan.html The bluestone walls of Pentridge Prison were designed to break the spirit of the strongest and most violent members of our community. But one man who walked the corridors there for thirty years was made the stronger and the wiser for it: Father John Brosnan, the knockabout priest...
"Death — it's a part of life " U.S. Catholic, July 2003 http://www.uscatholic.org/2003/07/cov0307.htm Myles Sheehan has two jobs that cause him to walk with death on a regular basis: One, he's a doctor specializing in the care of old people; two, he's a Jesuit priest. Doctors often skirt the issue of death just as the rest of us do, he says, and care of the dying suffers as a result. Sheehan has set out to change that, by advising medical schools and hospitals on end-of-life care. How did he end up being both a Jesuit and a doctor? ....
"New US man in Iraq is sustained by his faith" Total Catholic http://tinyurl.com/gpq4 The new US-installed administrator of Iraq has spoken publicly and movingly of how his Catholic faith is a source of inspiration for him in his testing mission. "There is no doubt in my mind that I cannot succeed in this mission without the help of God," said L Paul Bremer III, a veteran diplomat and anti-terrorism expert....
***************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Catholic schools buck trend. Otago rolls steady" Otago Daily Times 10 July 2003 http://tinyurl.com/gpq6 Dunedin Catholic diocesan school rolls are steady while other schools are experiencing a downward trend, New Zealand Catholic Education Office chief executive Pat Lynch says...
"Rugby stalwart and family man " Southland Times 01 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/southlandtimes/0,2106,2555332a6565,00.html At a packed St Mary's Basilica in Invercargill, Bert Winders' enormous reach was measured in some way by the hundreds who came to celebrate a life built around the touchstones of family and God, his wife Marie and eight children. He was a founding member of the Southland branch of the Society for the Protection of the Unborn Child, first secretary-treasurer (1972) of the Southland Council for Racial Harmony, vice-president of the Marist Rugby Football Club, a member of the Catholic Church's Knights of the Southern Cross...
********************************************
NEW WEBSITES
***************************
Te Ngakau Waiora. Mercy Spirituality Centre http://www.mercycentreauckland.org.nz
Te Ngakau Waiora Mercy Spirituality Centre in Epsom, Auckland "seeks to create a place for learning and a deepening relationship with God which fosters the inner search leading to hohourongo - personal, social and spiritual renewal".
The Centre offers: Retreats ... Spiritual direction / spiritual companionship ... Professional supervision ... Programmes and workshops on spirituality and prayer ... Bio-spiritual focusing ... Enneagram and Myers Briggs ... Regular group meditation ... Venue for organisational retreat days, seminars and meetings
*************************
The Carpenter Project http://www.thecarpenterproject.co.nz
"The Carpenter Project is helping to create a new church and community facility on a prominent site in Wellington, New Zealand. It replaces a set of relocated buildings which the St Joseph's parish began using as a temporary church in 1945! The award-winning Studio of Pacific Architecture was selected in 2001 with a brief to create a facility that is on the edge of change, modest and simple, open to the community. They have responded brilliantly with a design that is sure to win national and international acclaim. Standing at the eastern portal of the Mt Victoria tunnel - in the historic precinct shared by Government House, Wellington College and the Basin Reserve - the new building will provide a stunning visual welcome for visitors to the capital city."
************************************************
EVENTS
************************
24 July - 3 August New Zealand Catholic Cursillo Three day Weekend Knock-Na-Gree Retreat Centre, 581 West Coast Rd, Oratia, Auckland. Women's weekend: Thursday evening 24th July to Sunday 27th. Men's weekend: Thursday 31st July to Sunday 3rd August
For more information contact Gerry or Margaret Smy; tel. (09) 267 1516; e-mail: Gerry.Smy@xtra.co.nz
Website: http://www.cursillo.catholic.org.au/about/3days.htm
By way of background: Reflecting its Spanish origins, the official name of this movement is "Cursillo de Christiandad" which means "short course in living Christianity". "Cursillo" is pronounced "Cur-see-yo". A person who has attended a Cursillo Three Days is called a Cursillista ("cur-see-ista"). The Cursillo Movement began before the Second World War on the island of Majorca, Spain, when, through dissatisfaction with spiritual lukewarmness in the church, a group of men began to pray, talk and work together to find a way to bring people to Christ. The answer was to run short courses to train Christian leaders. The first Cursillo was held on the island of Majorca in 1949. It soon spread to the mainland of Spain. The first English language Cursillo was held in Texas U.S.A., in 1961, and today Cursillos are held all over the world in both Anglican and Roman Catholic Dioceses under the direction of their Bishops.
************************
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
**********************
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
**********************************
Sunday, July 6, 2003
********************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
********************************
'NZ Catholic' newspaper No 165, June 29-July 12, 2003 http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
"Govt's social policy sounds alarm bells " A raft of social legislation is being fuelled by a desire for an instant fix for almost everything, says New Zealand Passionist Family Group leader Lynn Hill, of Waihi Beach...
"Church leaders send letter to every MP " More than 30 church leaders sent an open letter to all MPs five days before the final vote on the Prostitution Reform Bill...
"Diamond celebrations for beloved priest " Fr Bill Wood of the Hamilton diocese celebrated his diamond jubilee on 13 June, 60 years to the day since he was ordained a priest in the cathedral of Thurles, County Tipperary. ....
****************************
'The Far East' Magazine of the New Zealand and Australian missionaries of St Columban's Mission Society
From the May 2003 issue: http://www.columban.org.au/tfe/tfe_current.htm
Editorial: "Youth is wasted on the Young" A remarkable charism of the Holy Father is the ease with which he establishes a rapport with youth. Last year he said, “Young people of the third millennium, young Christians, young people of every religion, I ask you to be, like Francis of Assisi, gentle and courageous guardians of true peace, based on justice and forgiveness, truth and mercy! Go forward into the future holding high the lamp of peace.”....
The director's message: "In the face of hopelessness" Recently Frs Chris Baker and John Hegerty from Peru and Fr Vincent Batchelor from Fiji came home to Victoria on vacation and are looking forward to going back. They have spent many years on mission. What sustains them? I think it’s the people they know and love....
Columbans' silver anniversaries
"Youthful inspiration", by John Greene (illustrated) I am in my fourth term as an associate priest in Chile working in the parish of Santo De Nolasco, Valparaiso which has 100,000 people, with 10 communities. I am currently working with the young people of the area. It is particularly pleasing to see so many youth willingly involved in the activities of the Church. Their group leaders are quite impressive, with some aiming for a university education....
"Abraham - The common link", by Gary Walker On March 23, 2003, members of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faith communities met at the Clock Tower Centre, Moonee Ponds, for an International Inter-Religious Dialogue Conference on the theme, Abraham, A symbol of hope and common bond for Jews, Christians and Muslims. This was the second conference held in Melbourne and the first time the Jewish community participated in the event....
*********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Youthful boost for aging priesthood " The Press (Chch) 05 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,2559901a6530,00.html Canterbury's aging Catholic priesthood received a boost with the ordination of John Adams in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament last night. Catholic Bishop John Cunneen conferred Holy Orders on the 39-year-old Christchurch man in an ancient ceremony of song and colour....
"Church-sex complainant admits lying to get payout" INL 03 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2557788a11,00.html A key complainant in the St John of God sex scandal has told the police he lied about being abused by religious brothers at a Catholic residential school....
"Sex-abuse scandal crosses Tasman " INL 02 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2556672a11,00.html Seven religious brothers in Australia are under investigation and could face extradition for alleged abuse of boys at a Catholic residential school in Christchurch....
"Now I can say to him 'rest in peace, bro' " The Press (Chch) 30 May 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,2510119a6009,00.html A promise made at a Christchurch graveside has been kept. Dave (not his real name) swore he would get justice for the big brother who protected him when they were abused as children at the St John of God order's Marylands school in the 1960s.... [The article emphasises the respect and sympathy the victims have for Brother Peter Burke, who is their contact with St John of God]
**********************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
Members of St Patrick's College (Wellington) debating team who won the religious questions section of the O'Shea shield competition for Catholic high schools talk about Pope John XXIII's letter 'Pacem in Terris' (Peace on Earth), issued in 1963 : http://www.catholictv.net/insight/index.html
*************************************
CARITAS AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND The NZ Catholic bishop's agency for justice, peace and development
The Winter 2003 issue of Caritas' newsletter, 'Caritas Update', is on-site at: http://www.caritas.org.nz/update.asp In this issue: Children's Issues in Social Justice Week ... East Timorese people awaiting justice for massacre victims ... working with Nicaraguan men on domestic violence ... Sri Lankan women challenging the World Bank ... Caritas response in Iraq ... visit to New Zealand schools by the head of CIDSE Cambodia.
Also on the Caritas Website:
Iraq: interview with Caritas Internationalis official http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/Iraq/07_interview.asp A month after the end of the Iraqi war, Caritas Internationalis sees progress being made in humanitarian efforts. "We have established good collaboration with the Muslim world despite difficulties arising from the lack of security," said Karel Zelenka, head of Caritas' Department for International Collaboration. In this interview with the Vatican agency Fides, Zelenka, who returned from a fact-finding visit to Iraq, talks about the current situation.
Palestine: 'Jesus wept at Jerusalem' http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/Palestine/23_jesuswept.asp This article includes excerpts from Vox newsletter representing several Church related organizations including Caritas Jerusalem. Vox's rationale is to monitor and report on the humanitarian situation on the ground in the Palestinian occupied territories.
********************************
'ECCLESIA IN EUROPA' (28 June 2003)
The full title of this document is "Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation 'Ecclesia in Europa' of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to the bishops, men and women in the consecrated life, and all the lay faithful, on Jesus Christ alive in his Church, the source of hope for Europe."
In a commentary published by Zenit news agency, Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Birmingham writes: "From a Western European perspective, I welcome the way in which this document opens up the crucial discussion on how the public institutions of life in Europe should relate to the realities of faith. The exhortation calls for a working relationship between the Church and other faith communities, on the one hand, and the political life of the European Union on the other. This relationship is, at present, expressed and explored in quite different ways in the different countries of Western Europe, and the exhortation calls for a recognition of this diversity, rather than an imposition of an ideological uniformity."
Full text: Short link: http://tinyurl.com/g2gr Actual link: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_j\ p-ii_exh_20030628_ecclesia-in-europa_en.html
Reports and commentaries on 'Ecclesia in Europa' from Zenit: http://tinyurl.com/g2h2
*****************************
'CATHOLICISM FOR DUMMIES'
http://cda.dummies.com/WileyCDA/DummiesTitle/productCd-0764553917,page-DESC.html
The "For Dummies" series is published in thick paperbacks with a distinctive cartoon character on a yellow cover. The series introduces complex subjects to readers who know next to nothing about them, by walking the reader through the topic step-by-step with the help of specially-designed page layouts. Consequently many NZ public libraries have titles in the series and some at least will certainly purchase this one.
The "Catholicism for Dummies" Website lists the 19 chapter headings, some details about the two authors (both priests), and includes this note about the topic: "Want to know more about Catholicism? Catholicism For Dummies presents the rich tapestry and history of the Catholic Church – from devotions to doctrines. You’ll find a description of the Catholic Mass, the seven sacraments, the liturgical calendar, the duties of the clergy, and much more."
Although I haven't seen this book, I know the series well and so I can say that cradle Catholics will enjoy it for its unique way of presenting our faith. However, this book is particularly important because, as part of a popular series, it will be on sale in bookshops which normally stock little or nothing about Christianity. Consequently, among the many thousands of people who know and have benefited from the "For Dummies" series, there will certainly be some who would ordinarily never give a book about Catholicism a second glance, but who will pick up this one because of its familiar look. So God bless it, and all associated with it. ML
*************************************
EVENTS
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
********************************
'NZ Catholic' newspaper No 165, June 29-July 12, 2003 http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz
"Govt's social policy sounds alarm bells " A raft of social legislation is being fuelled by a desire for an instant fix for almost everything, says New Zealand Passionist Family Group leader Lynn Hill, of Waihi Beach...
"Church leaders send letter to every MP " More than 30 church leaders sent an open letter to all MPs five days before the final vote on the Prostitution Reform Bill...
"Diamond celebrations for beloved priest " Fr Bill Wood of the Hamilton diocese celebrated his diamond jubilee on 13 June, 60 years to the day since he was ordained a priest in the cathedral of Thurles, County Tipperary. ....
****************************
'The Far East' Magazine of the New Zealand and Australian missionaries of St Columban's Mission Society
From the May 2003 issue: http://www.columban.org.au/tfe/tfe_current.htm
Editorial: "Youth is wasted on the Young" A remarkable charism of the Holy Father is the ease with which he establishes a rapport with youth. Last year he said, “Young people of the third millennium, young Christians, young people of every religion, I ask you to be, like Francis of Assisi, gentle and courageous guardians of true peace, based on justice and forgiveness, truth and mercy! Go forward into the future holding high the lamp of peace.”....
The director's message: "In the face of hopelessness" Recently Frs Chris Baker and John Hegerty from Peru and Fr Vincent Batchelor from Fiji came home to Victoria on vacation and are looking forward to going back. They have spent many years on mission. What sustains them? I think it’s the people they know and love....
Columbans' silver anniversaries
"Youthful inspiration", by John Greene (illustrated) I am in my fourth term as an associate priest in Chile working in the parish of Santo De Nolasco, Valparaiso which has 100,000 people, with 10 communities. I am currently working with the young people of the area. It is particularly pleasing to see so many youth willingly involved in the activities of the Church. Their group leaders are quite impressive, with some aiming for a university education....
"Abraham - The common link", by Gary Walker On March 23, 2003, members of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faith communities met at the Clock Tower Centre, Moonee Ponds, for an International Inter-Religious Dialogue Conference on the theme, Abraham, A symbol of hope and common bond for Jews, Christians and Muslims. This was the second conference held in Melbourne and the first time the Jewish community participated in the event....
*********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Youthful boost for aging priesthood " The Press (Chch) 05 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,2559901a6530,00.html Canterbury's aging Catholic priesthood received a boost with the ordination of John Adams in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament last night. Catholic Bishop John Cunneen conferred Holy Orders on the 39-year-old Christchurch man in an ancient ceremony of song and colour....
"Church-sex complainant admits lying to get payout" INL 03 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2557788a11,00.html A key complainant in the St John of God sex scandal has told the police he lied about being abused by religious brothers at a Catholic residential school....
"Sex-abuse scandal crosses Tasman " INL 02 July 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2556672a11,00.html Seven religious brothers in Australia are under investigation and could face extradition for alleged abuse of boys at a Catholic residential school in Christchurch....
"Now I can say to him 'rest in peace, bro' " The Press (Chch) 30 May 2003 http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/thepress/0,2106,2510119a6009,00.html A promise made at a Christchurch graveside has been kept. Dave (not his real name) swore he would get justice for the big brother who protected him when they were abused as children at the St John of God order's Marylands school in the 1960s.... [The article emphasises the respect and sympathy the victims have for Brother Peter Burke, who is their contact with St John of God]
**********************************
CATHOLIC WEB TV (Wellington Archdiocesan Media Centre)
Members of St Patrick's College (Wellington) debating team who won the religious questions section of the O'Shea shield competition for Catholic high schools talk about Pope John XXIII's letter 'Pacem in Terris' (Peace on Earth), issued in 1963 : http://www.catholictv.net/insight/index.html
*************************************
CARITAS AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND The NZ Catholic bishop's agency for justice, peace and development
The Winter 2003 issue of Caritas' newsletter, 'Caritas Update', is on-site at: http://www.caritas.org.nz/update.asp In this issue: Children's Issues in Social Justice Week ... East Timorese people awaiting justice for massacre victims ... working with Nicaraguan men on domestic violence ... Sri Lankan women challenging the World Bank ... Caritas response in Iraq ... visit to New Zealand schools by the head of CIDSE Cambodia.
Also on the Caritas Website:
Iraq: interview with Caritas Internationalis official http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/Iraq/07_interview.asp A month after the end of the Iraqi war, Caritas Internationalis sees progress being made in humanitarian efforts. "We have established good collaboration with the Muslim world despite difficulties arising from the lack of security," said Karel Zelenka, head of Caritas' Department for International Collaboration. In this interview with the Vatican agency Fides, Zelenka, who returned from a fact-finding visit to Iraq, talks about the current situation.
Palestine: 'Jesus wept at Jerusalem' http://www.caritas.org.nz/world/Palestine/23_jesuswept.asp This article includes excerpts from Vox newsletter representing several Church related organizations including Caritas Jerusalem. Vox's rationale is to monitor and report on the humanitarian situation on the ground in the Palestinian occupied territories.
********************************
'ECCLESIA IN EUROPA' (28 June 2003)
The full title of this document is "Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation 'Ecclesia in Europa' of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to the bishops, men and women in the consecrated life, and all the lay faithful, on Jesus Christ alive in his Church, the source of hope for Europe."
In a commentary published by Zenit news agency, Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Birmingham writes: "From a Western European perspective, I welcome the way in which this document opens up the crucial discussion on how the public institutions of life in Europe should relate to the realities of faith. The exhortation calls for a working relationship between the Church and other faith communities, on the one hand, and the political life of the European Union on the other. This relationship is, at present, expressed and explored in quite different ways in the different countries of Western Europe, and the exhortation calls for a recognition of this diversity, rather than an imposition of an ideological uniformity."
Full text: Short link: http://tinyurl.com/g2gr Actual link: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_j\ p-ii_exh_20030628_ecclesia-in-europa_en.html
Reports and commentaries on 'Ecclesia in Europa' from Zenit: http://tinyurl.com/g2h2
*****************************
'CATHOLICISM FOR DUMMIES'
http://cda.dummies.com/WileyCDA/DummiesTitle/productCd-0764553917,page-DESC.html
The "For Dummies" series is published in thick paperbacks with a distinctive cartoon character on a yellow cover. The series introduces complex subjects to readers who know next to nothing about them, by walking the reader through the topic step-by-step with the help of specially-designed page layouts. Consequently many NZ public libraries have titles in the series and some at least will certainly purchase this one.
The "Catholicism for Dummies" Website lists the 19 chapter headings, some details about the two authors (both priests), and includes this note about the topic: "Want to know more about Catholicism? Catholicism For Dummies presents the rich tapestry and history of the Catholic Church – from devotions to doctrines. You’ll find a description of the Catholic Mass, the seven sacraments, the liturgical calendar, the duties of the clergy, and much more."
Although I haven't seen this book, I know the series well and so I can say that cradle Catholics will enjoy it for its unique way of presenting our faith. However, this book is particularly important because, as part of a popular series, it will be on sale in bookshops which normally stock little or nothing about Christianity. Consequently, among the many thousands of people who know and have benefited from the "For Dummies" series, there will certainly be some who would ordinarily never give a book about Catholicism a second glance, but who will pick up this one because of its familiar look. So God bless it, and all associated with it. ML
*************************************
EVENTS
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
Sunday, June 29, 2003
*********************************
"Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (St Matthew's Gospel 16:13-19)
[From the Gospel Reading for the Solemnity of Sts Peter and Paul, Apostles]
*********************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
Renewing the parish: 4 Speak up for God s sake, by Marian Tolley The Tablet (UK) 21/06/2003 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?tablet-00755 Parish renewal begins when readers of the World proclaim it in the conviction that God is speaking. Then congregations sit up and listen....
Renewing the parish 5: At the Spirit café, by David Payne The Tablet (UK) Saturday, 28 June 2003 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?tablet-00759 To support new fire, parishes need small groups. But how to form them? The director of Catholic Evangelisation Services explains the CaFE programme...
Timor Leste: Help us if you can Catholic Leader (Brisbane) 29 June, 2003 http://www.catholicleader.com.au/index.php?pgnum=2.5 East Timor, now officially called Timor Leste, may have celebrated its first birthday as a nation, but assistance is still badly needed. Salesian Brother Michael Lynch, a regular visitor to Australia's near neighbour, tells of the new country's needs...
Half empty or half full? Crunching numbers to look at Church's future http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/20030620.htm Catholic News Service Jun-20-2003 Vatican City (CNS) -- Statisticians are supposed to be brutally honest, and the Vatican's number crunchers are no exception. So when the latest figures on the Universal Church came out in June, there was good news and bad news -- good enough to put a smile on the faces of Vatican optimists and bad enough to raise eyebrows among the worrywarts...
*********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Prostitution Reform Bill Passes in New Zealand" Crosswalk.com http://www.crosswalk.com/news/1206715.html Pacific Rim Bureau (CNSNews.com) - By a single vote, New Zealand lawmakers Wednesday passed a bill decriminalizing prostitution, following months of sustained lobbying by religious and public policy groups who worry about the likely consequences of the proposed changes....
"Sex-trade law won't mean more brothels: mayor" Mytown.co.nz: Hawkes Bay 26.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdk [Comments on the decriminalisation of prostitution by among others Msgr. Tim Hannigan of Napier and the Anglican bishop of Waiapu John Bluck]
"Bringing law to a lawless land" (photo) NZ Herald 28.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdn The proposed Anzac intervention in the Solomon Islands could find career British policeman William Morrell, 48, in charge of a multi-national force aimed at returning the rule of law to what was once known as the Happy Isles. William and his wife Mary have been married for 27 years and are kindred spirits in that easy-going way that successful long-term couples have. The parents of two grown children, they say their Catholic faith is a vital component in their happy life....
"An eye for hidden lives" (photo) NZ Herald 26.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdq [Review of a retrospective exhibition of the work of art photographer Anne Noble at the New Gallery, Auckland] Extract: The most impressive of all of Noble's groups is the one she made when living In the Presence of Angels, among Benedictine nuns, an environment only a sympathetic Catholic woman could penetrate. This essay provides the outstanding photographs in the show with the most telling details, which are a combination of piety and oddity, quiet and hidden passion....
"State school ministry's priority " Otago Daily Times 25-June 2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhds Wanaka Primary School is further up the queue for capital funding than the Catholic primary school proposed for the town, the Ministry of Education says. The primary school board fears plans by Dunedin Bishop Len Boyle to open a Catholic school from a temporary Brownston St site next year will disrupt negotiations with the ministry for land for a new middle school and funds for new classrooms....
**********************************
'WHALE RIDER'
US Catholic Bishops' Conference Movie Reviews http://www.usccb.org/movies/w/whalerider.htm [Extract] Evocative coming-of-age tale set among contemporary New Zealand Maoris where a 12-year-old girl (Keisha Castle-Hughes) secretly trains to become the warrior-like tribal leader against the fierce objections of her tradition-bound grandfather, the aging chief (Rawiri Paratene). Castle-Hughes makes a radiant debut as the loving child whose youth belies her emotional and spiritual maturity. Indeed, her willingness to sacrifice herself for her people is Christ-like, and her ability to forgive her grandfather's many slights deeply touching. Writer-director Niki Caro sensitively weds the ancient culture's rites to hardscrabble times, in the process dramatically exploring the role of community, change, and father figures in the formation of youngsters....
**********************************
EVENTS
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
"Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (St Matthew's Gospel 16:13-19)
[From the Gospel Reading for the Solemnity of Sts Peter and Paul, Apostles]
*********************************************
FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS
Renewing the parish: 4 Speak up for God s sake, by Marian Tolley The Tablet (UK) 21/06/2003 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?tablet-00755 Parish renewal begins when readers of the World proclaim it in the conviction that God is speaking. Then congregations sit up and listen....
Renewing the parish 5: At the Spirit café, by David Payne The Tablet (UK) Saturday, 28 June 2003 http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?tablet-00759 To support new fire, parishes need small groups. But how to form them? The director of Catholic Evangelisation Services explains the CaFE programme...
Timor Leste: Help us if you can Catholic Leader (Brisbane) 29 June, 2003 http://www.catholicleader.com.au/index.php?pgnum=2.5 East Timor, now officially called Timor Leste, may have celebrated its first birthday as a nation, but assistance is still badly needed. Salesian Brother Michael Lynch, a regular visitor to Australia's near neighbour, tells of the new country's needs...
Half empty or half full? Crunching numbers to look at Church's future http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/20030620.htm Catholic News Service Jun-20-2003 Vatican City (CNS) -- Statisticians are supposed to be brutally honest, and the Vatican's number crunchers are no exception. So when the latest figures on the Universal Church came out in June, there was good news and bad news -- good enough to put a smile on the faces of Vatican optimists and bad enough to raise eyebrows among the worrywarts...
*********************************************
FROM THE SECULAR PRESS
"Prostitution Reform Bill Passes in New Zealand" Crosswalk.com http://www.crosswalk.com/news/1206715.html Pacific Rim Bureau (CNSNews.com) - By a single vote, New Zealand lawmakers Wednesday passed a bill decriminalizing prostitution, following months of sustained lobbying by religious and public policy groups who worry about the likely consequences of the proposed changes....
"Sex-trade law won't mean more brothels: mayor" Mytown.co.nz: Hawkes Bay 26.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdk [Comments on the decriminalisation of prostitution by among others Msgr. Tim Hannigan of Napier and the Anglican bishop of Waiapu John Bluck]
"Bringing law to a lawless land" (photo) NZ Herald 28.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdn The proposed Anzac intervention in the Solomon Islands could find career British policeman William Morrell, 48, in charge of a multi-national force aimed at returning the rule of law to what was once known as the Happy Isles. William and his wife Mary have been married for 27 years and are kindred spirits in that easy-going way that successful long-term couples have. The parents of two grown children, they say their Catholic faith is a vital component in their happy life....
"An eye for hidden lives" (photo) NZ Herald 26.06.2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhdq [Review of a retrospective exhibition of the work of art photographer Anne Noble at the New Gallery, Auckland] Extract: The most impressive of all of Noble's groups is the one she made when living In the Presence of Angels, among Benedictine nuns, an environment only a sympathetic Catholic woman could penetrate. This essay provides the outstanding photographs in the show with the most telling details, which are a combination of piety and oddity, quiet and hidden passion....
"State school ministry's priority " Otago Daily Times 25-June 2003 http://tinyurl.com/fhds Wanaka Primary School is further up the queue for capital funding than the Catholic primary school proposed for the town, the Ministry of Education says. The primary school board fears plans by Dunedin Bishop Len Boyle to open a Catholic school from a temporary Brownston St site next year will disrupt negotiations with the ministry for land for a new middle school and funds for new classrooms....
**********************************
'WHALE RIDER'
US Catholic Bishops' Conference Movie Reviews http://www.usccb.org/movies/w/whalerider.htm [Extract] Evocative coming-of-age tale set among contemporary New Zealand Maoris where a 12-year-old girl (Keisha Castle-Hughes) secretly trains to become the warrior-like tribal leader against the fierce objections of her tradition-bound grandfather, the aging chief (Rawiri Paratene). Castle-Hughes makes a radiant debut as the loving child whose youth belies her emotional and spiritual maturity. Indeed, her willingness to sacrifice herself for her people is Christ-like, and her ability to forgive her grandfather's many slights deeply touching. Writer-director Niki Caro sensitively weds the ancient culture's rites to hardscrabble times, in the process dramatically exploring the role of community, change, and father figures in the formation of youngsters....
**********************************
EVENTS
August 14-16 2003 New Zealand Catholic Schools' Convention Wellington Festival and Convention Centre http://nzceo.catholic.org.nz/2003convention.shtml
September 2003 'NZ Catholic' newspaper's National Art and Faith Competition Closing date: September 19 2003; works to be in by September 30; exhibition opens October 3. For paintings of a spiritual nature demonstrating the vitality, joy and hope found in Christian beliefs. Three categories, including one for works relating to Mary the mother of Jesus, and one for icons. Prizes to the value of $4750 Entry forms from "Art competition", NZ Catholic, PO Box 147-000, Ponsonby, Auckland 1034. Tel: (09) 524 8322. E-mail: artrel@xtra.co.nz
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)