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

LENT 2011

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
http://www.caritas.org.nz/?sid=1126

Resources for Lent 2011: Online donation link ... Lenten resources for schools, parishes and groups ... Caritas Lenten Reflection Programme in English, Samoan, Tongan and (coming soon) Tokelauan ... List of contacts

Caritas's Lenten theme for 2011 is 'United by Our Common Humanity'. It derives from the New Zealand Bishops' statement 'A Consistent Ethic of Life – Te Kahu-O-te-Ora' which says, “A Consistent Ethic of life proclaims the dignity of every person. We are united by our common humanity, created in the image of God, and called to live in active love and tolerance of all who are different from ourselves.”

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and sharing resources. Caritas' Lent Appeal is a practical way to give to those in need. The Lent Appeal is Caritas' most important of the year, raising funds to support relief and development programmes overseas, as well as education and advocacy for social justice in Aotearoa New Zealand. In view of the severe impact of the Christchurch earthquake, this year, 25 percent of the Lent Appeal will go towards helping people most affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

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'NZ CATHOLIC'

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

In No. 362, March 27 - April 9 2011: No NZ Anglican special structure ... Medical Council to appeal abortion conscience ruling ... Ash Wednesday unites communities across a broken city ... Southern cathedral celebrates 125 years .. New seminarians start studies ... Card. George Pell: Cultivate virtue in Lent to remove vice ... Marist sisters' story told ... Pilgrims walk, pray on NZ heights .. Churchgoing good for health, research shows .. Popes' latest book on Jesus released .. Caritas upset with Vatican's decision .... Pentecost culture called for ... Advertising feature: Pilgrimages (5 pages)

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

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Christchurch Earthquake - 22 February 2011

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

Act Of God? (photos)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/4812656/Act-of-God
That looks like tagging on the stone walls of St Peter's Anglican Church in Upper Riccarton. Really, who would dare? But when you get closer, you realise that the spray- painted words actually read "danger" and "stay clear". There is hurricane fencing around much of this 110-year-old church, even enclosing some of its historic graves. There are fallen stones on the ground. There is a notice on the door that no-one is allowed inside. This is a depressingly familiar sight in this city of ruined or partly ruined churches...

Emotional farewell for Irish victim of earthquake (photo)
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/4n5j7oa
One of the two Irishman killed in the Christchurch earthquake has been laid to rest in an emotional ceremony. Accountant John Joseph (J J) O'Connor, 40, originally from Abbeydorney, in Ireland, worked on the first floor of the Pyne Gould Corporation building which collapsed in the earthquake.

*******************
In other news ...
*******************

`Stirrer' and bus-shelter agitator
New Zealand Herald
http://tinyurl.com/4bblzz9
As a self-confessed ``bit of a stirrer'', George Shierny came to support a variety of causes _ from encouraging hospital facilities in Waitakere and North Shore, to wanting trees preserved on the cliffs of St Marys Bay, near the Harbour Bridge. And at the age of 71 he made a three-week bicycle ride to Parliament in Wellington (his best suit in a battered old suitcase) when he feared the Government might commercialise Auckland's regional parks. He also opposed the proposed 384m Sky Tower as a ``sophisticated hoarding to advertise gambling'', complaining that ``the focal point of a city used to be the church steeples _ now it's the damn casino...."

Puhoi prepares to turn 150 (photo)
Rodney Times
http://tinyurl.com/47v78u5
Puhoi is already gearing up to celebrate its 150th anniversary in June 2013.

No closure in death of priest
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/153391/no-closure-death-priest
Dunedin-born Fr Raymond John Garchow (64), who had lived in Australia for many years, died in Sydney this month. He was one of five Catholic brothers or priests accused of sexually abusing boys at the St John of God Order's Marylands school at Halswell, on the outskirts of Christchurch.

Church insurance costs push higher
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/153395/church-insurance-costs-push-higher
Cash-strapped New Zealand churches face a hike in insurance premiums after last month's earthquake caused an estimated $200 million worth of damage to Christchurch churches.

A hard-going but ultimately rewarding watch (photo)
The Marlborough Express
http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/arts-entertainment/4805313/A-hard-going-but-ultimately-rewarding-watch
The Ian Cross play The God Boy, a sharp social commentary on the 1950s, is a challenge to watch, but the production that opened in Blenheim last night is worth seeing.

Thieves target church (full text)
Wairarapa News
http://tinyurl.com/48zw86g
After attempting to get into buildings around St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Masterton, burglars broke in via a side window and stole a collection which had been earmarked for Christchurch earthquake victims. Police said there was evidence someone had attempted to jemmy open doors on a side building and the northern entrance to the church. Around $150 was taken from the relief fund. The burglary was reported to police just after midday on Sunday and it is believed the break-in happened between 8.30am and 4pm on Saturday.

*******************
News of the Schools
*******************

Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth: Art sale (full text)
North Taranaki Midweek
http://tinyurl.com/482cvs7
Francis Douglas memorial College is inviting artists to take part in an art auction on Saturday to raise funds for the school. The artist can set the reserve and the percentage or amount of money donated to the school. Organisers say the gala, an annual event, usually attracts about 2000 people. All artwork needs to have a name, contact details, medium, name of work and any other vital information. Artwork can be dropped off at House of Travel, New Plymouth, by Friday, March 25.

John Paul college, Rotorua: Facebook warning over student rants
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/facebook-warning-over-student-rants/3945627/

John Paul College, Rotorua: Sign this: Parents' brawls are out
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10714817

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Danica hopes for a ring of confidence (photo)
The Dominion Post
http://tinyurl.com/4bcjxew

St Joseph's, Levin, celebrates St Patrick's Day (photo caption)
The Horowhenua Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4hngnav

St Joseph's, Kaikoura: Evacuee twins’ warm goodbye to Kaikoura (photo)
Kaikoura Star
http://tinyurl.com/49tm2qw

St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch: Powers of invention on the boil (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/4798187/Powers-of-invention-on-the-boil

St Patrick's College, Silverstream: St Patrick’s namesake celebrates (photo)
Upper Hutt Leader
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/upper-hutt-leader/4796584/St-Patricks-namesake-celebrates

St Patrick's College, Silverstream: ’Stream in to win (photo)
Hutt News
http://tinyurl.com/4w6lxfe

St Patrick's School. Paraparaumu: St Patrick’s fundraiser
Kapiti Observer
http://tinyurl.com/4cj7htk

St Paul's School, Christchurch: Two quakes, two moves
Christchurch Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4s3y2g6

St Peter’s College, Gore: Talented kayaker working hard (photo)
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/4de6typ

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

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

menALIVE apostolate aims to help grow good Catholic men
http://www.catholicleader.com.au/news.php/features/menalive-apostolate-aims-to-help-grow-good-catholic-men_71944
Robert Falzon, one of the founders of menALIVE, talks about the growth in this national Catholic ministry to men founded in Brisbane in 2003

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

INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Lent'
A reflection by Jenny O'Brien, DRS at St Catherine's College, Wellington

'At the Well'
John 4: 5-15 - a reading and reflection with Very Rev. Frank Nelson and Rev. Canon Jenny Wilkens

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

'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** But it’s so hard! (40 martyrs to help you during Lent)

** “He is our leader. He seized power in a bloodless coup — All smothering.” (revolutions in the Middle East)

** The necessity of becoming acquainted with Faulconbridge (inspiration from T.S. Eliot's essays)

** Breaking with Blighty? (reasons to retain ties with the UK)

** The Mumblings of the Moon Man (the fearmongering of Ken Ring)


** So much beauty in the vows (Part 2 - the vow of poverty)



See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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NEW ZEALAND COMMENTARIES ON THE SUNDAY READINGS

Living the Word - Fr Frank Bird sm http://livingtheword.org.nz

Reflect - Veronica Lawson rsm http://www.welcom.org.nz/?sid=394

Daily Reflections (right-hand column) http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz

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ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

Crucifix case a victory for 'open door' Catholicism
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/crucifix-case-victory-open-door-catholicism

Sometimes historical turning points are lost on the people who actually experience them -- it takes time for their real meaning to emerge. In Catholic terms, something analogous may have happened last week. In case you missed it, here’s the story in a nutshell: In a stunning and unexpected development, the European Court of Human Rights reversed its own 2009 ruling and upheld Italy’s right to display crucifixes in its public school classrooms...

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FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

Te Kaihautu Mission Leader, Sisters of Mercy Ministries New Zealand Trust
Details in 'NZ Catholic' March 27 - April 9 2011, p.26, on http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/news/view_article.cfm?loadref=6&id=131 and from The Secretary, Nga Whaea Atawhai Tiaki Manatu Sisters of Mercy Ministries New Zealand Trust, P O Box 6015, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141, Ref: Te Kaihautu Mission Leader. Applications close 1 April 2011.

15 February 2004
************************************

'WEL-COM' February 2004

Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North

http://www.welcom.org.nz

Cardinal Williams: So much achieved in the Archdiocese

Bishop Dew: Immersing ourselves in the essence of the sacred

Caritas workplace survey reveals child exploitation in N.Z. The recent survey by Caritas on the work experience of children still at school led the Minister of Labour, Margaret Wilson to issue a statement on the need for vigilance...

At last, a glimmer of hope for asylum seekers detained on Nauru After two years of being detained against their will on Nauru Island it seems that for some of those asylum seekers things may, at last, be starting to move...

What it is like for the people of the Holy Land? Last year Fr Alan Roberts was in Israel where he was studying at Tantur and had a chance to experience life in this country torn apart by strife and anguish. He tells us something of the things he learned as the country faces the prospect of being divided by the Israeli Security Barrier....

It’s time we stopped paying certifying consultants Marilyn Pryor calls for an end to the charade where New Zealand pays certifying consultants who authorise abortions on specious grounds masquerading as a serious danger to the mother's mental health...

Pastoral Areas are now established 1 February marked an historic day in the Wellington Archdiocese as the Pastoral Area model for its parishes came into existence...

Developing a spirituality of place for Wellingtonians Sr Elizabeth Julian reflects on the importance of place in bringing us into a profound encounter with God....

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

Expulsion puts girl's life at risk says lawyer NZ Herald 14.02.2004 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=3549285&reportID=55514 The Auckland Catholic Communications Director, Lindsay Freer was surprised to be approached last week by an immigration official who appealed for the church's help in finding a haven for an expelled Sri Lankan teenager....

Integrated schools may not be safe from reviews Otago Daily Times Thursday, 12-February 2004 (part one) Integrated schools should have the same concerns as their state counterparts about facing a Ministry of Education review, University of Otago Associate Prof Howard Lee says. Integrated schools have contracts with the Government that preserve their "special character", while allowing them to access similar Government funding to state-run schools. The agreements also mean integrated schools cannot be closed or merged as part of a review....

part one: http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=12Feb2004&obje\ ct=GBJ34K2590EF&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial

part two: http://www.odt.co.nz/cgi-bin/search-display-story-online-new?date=12Feb2004&obje\ ct=GBM27E4697HD&type=html&WORDS=catholic&DB=Editorial

France is not as secular as it purports NZ Herald 11.02.2004 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?thesection=news&thesubsection=&storyI\ D=3548489 The debate swirling around a school in Maisons-Laffitte, a smart Paris suburb by the river Seine, is an example of thinking across France. A majority of the public are comfortable with state funding of Catholic schools so long as there is adequate scrutiny. But they also reflect a tradition of suspicion about Islam....

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

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

Iraq - “It is amazing to see that at the slightest signal of a return to normality, murderous hands are ready to strike causing death, destruction and terror” Father Nizar Semaan in Iraq tells Fides... http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2004/0402/12_1699.html

Only a few donors to help for the food crisis North Korea: Only a few donors to help for the food crisis http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=367 Pyongyang (AsiaNews/Agencies) – The World Food Programme (WFP) warned that 4 million North Koreans (17% of the country’s population) are at risk of malnutrition because of a fall in international aid...

My kids on the block, by Kristina Cooper The Tablet (UK) http://www.thetablet.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?tablet-00850 Most people turn away from violence or lock their door. But for one woman living on an inner city estate, her faith inspired her to try to make a difference by befriending young people rejected as troublemakers. It was the start of a new, sometimes frightening, way of life ...

Family fast and fast food, by Clare Watkins Priests and People (UK) http://www.priestsandpeople.co.uk/cgi-bin/archive_db.cgi?priestsppl-00094 Should Christian families follow society’s trend in solitary snacking, or make a point of eating together at table? Dr Clare Watkins, Vice Principal of the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, Cambridge, reflects on the theological implications of the way we eat, or abstain from eating, in the world of fast food...

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WORLD DAY OF THE SICK

Vatican City (Fides Service) - Pope John Paul II dedicated his teaching during the Wednesday Audience on 11 February to the mystery of the sick and the suffering. In fact it was the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and for the Church the World Day of the Sick.... http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2004/0402/12_1693.html

Vatican - In St Peter’s the Pope meets and blesses the sick: “As we look at Mary our heart opens to hope…Immaculate Mary is the wonderful sign of the victory of life over death, love over sin, salvation over all sickness of body or soul ”. http://www.fides.org/eng/news/2004/0402/12_1694.html

Numerous links to further articles and reports on the World Day of the Sick are at: http://www.cathnews.com/news/402/49.php


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

'THE PASSION'

Interview: 'You Want Me To Play Jesus?' http://msnbc.msn.com/id/4212740/He thought he was meeting for a surfing movie. Then Mel Gibson showed upNewsweekFeb. 16 issue - James Caviezel, the 35-year-old actor who first came to attention in Terrence Malick's "The Thin Red Line" and starred in "The Count of Monte Cristo," talks to NEWSWEEK's Sean Smith about the agony and the ecstasy of playing the Savior in the controversial "The Passion of the Christ."...

Will Mel Gibson's Passion of Christ help save Christianity?, by Daniel Johnson http://www.opinion.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/main.jhtml?xml=/opinion/2004/02/11/do\ 1101.xml&sSheet=/opinion/2004/02/11/ixopinion.html Christianity in the West is undeniably in crisis. Christians who are ashamed of the historical basis of their faith will not pass it on to the next generation - if, with our pathological failure to reproduce, there is a younger generation. For Christians, The Passion is at once a challenge to re-examine the most problematic aspects of their faith, and an opportunity to share its most sublime mystery with others. Its purpose is avowedly evangelical...

Join the clubbed: Catholics know pain of being bashed, by Richard Roeper http://www.suntimes.com/output/roeper/cst-nws-roep10.html I've seen the version of "The Passion of the Christ" that will play in theaters starting on Ash Wednesday -- and I'll soon share my views on the film. In the meantime, I've been pondering some other religious-themed movies I've seen in my four years on "Ebert & Roeper." Catholicism has been represented far more frequently than any other faith. Just from the last four years, I could easily put together a Catholic Film Festival -- but I don't think too many Catholics would be pleased with the entries....

Who Killed Jesus? (4-page article) http://msnbc.msn.com/id/4212741/Mel Gibson's powerful but troubling new movie, 'The Passion of the Christ,' is reviving one of the most explosive questions ever. What history tells us about Jesus' last hours, the world in which he lived, anti-Semitism, Scripture and the nature of faith itself

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"THE WORD FROM ROME"

http://www.nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/

A weekly column in the National Catholic Reporter by the paper's full-time Vatican correspondent John L. Allen

Summary of the column for Feb. 13 2004: Plenary assembly of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and revival of natural law; Pope meets Iranian foreign minister: situation of Iranian Christians; Former archbishop of Boston in Rome; Progress on English translation of the Mass; Human trafficking, modern slavery; Curial appointments from Eastern Europe

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

EVENTS

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

Catholic Festival: A Celebration of the Catholic Faith Auckland Town Hall, Friday 20 - Sunday 22 February 2004 Website: http://www.catholicfestival.org Full-page newspaper feature: 'NZ Catholic' Feb 8-21 p.12

"The Catholic Festival is a celebration of our faith that will be joyful, prayerful, reflective, informative and educational. We hope that it will be inspiring and life-changing for all who participate... We seek to provide the opportunity for anyone to display the gifts that God has given them... We also wish to celebrate our cultural diversity and to grow together in unity. From the centre of Auckland, we also have the opportunity to witness to our faith and help others to see its richness and beauty. Finally, there is the opportunity for the many groups and religious communities to promote their apostolates and seek members and vocations."

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

Courses sponsored by the Outreach and Evangelisation Commission, Hamilton Catholic Diocese Presented by Adrian & Anne Commadeur and Nan Deakin from the Melbourne Schools of Evangelisation

"New Life" : Saturday 28 February and Sunday 29 February 2004 Meet Jesus afresh and renew your commitment to Him

"Emmaus" : Saturday 6 March and Sunday 7 March 2004 Listen as Jesus walks with the disciples to Emmaus and unfolds the meaning of Scripture to you

Venue: Catholic Hall, St Joseph's, Te Aroha. Register by 16 February -see your Parish for brochures. Each course costs $40, or whatever the participants can afford. Some billets available with parishioners.

For further information contact Julia (07) 863 7575 Waihi Liz (07) 858 2954 Hamilton John (07) 846 2691 Hamilton jlewis@wave.co.nz

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/vacancies ]

[Vacancies in Catholic Youth Ministry are advertised on the Job Bank page of the National Council for Young Catholics: http://ncyc.org.nz ]

Office Secretary, National Centre for Religious Studies, Wellington Details in 'Wel-com' February 2004 p.17, or from: The Director, NCRS, PO Box 1937, Wellington 6015; tel. 04 496 1761; e-mail: ncrsnz@clerar.net.nz. Applications close 27 February 2004.

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

LENT 2011

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
http://www.caritas.org.nz/?sid=1126

Resources for Lent 2011: Online donation link ... Lenten resources for schools, parishes and groups ... Caritas Lenten Reflection Programme in English, Samoan, Tongan and (coming soon) Tokelauan ... List of contacts

Caritas's Lenten theme for 2011 is 'United by Our Common Humanity'. It derives from the New Zealand Bishops' statement 'A Consistent Ethic of Life – Te Kahu-O-te-Ora' which says, “A Consistent Ethic of life proclaims the dignity of every person. We are united by our common humanity, created in the image of God, and called to live in active love and tolerance of all who are different from ourselves.”

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and sharing resources. Caritas' Lent Appeal is a practical way to give to those in need. The Lent Appeal is Caritas' most important of the year, raising funds to support relief and development programmes overseas, as well as education and advocacy for social justice in Aotearoa New Zealand. In view of the severe impact of the Christchurch earthquake, this year, 25 percent of the Lent Appeal will go towards helping people most affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

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

'NZ CATHOLIC'

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

In No. 362, March 27 - April 9 2011: No NZ Anglican special structure ... Medical Council to appeal abortion conscience ruling ... Ash Wednesday unites communities across a broken city ... Southern cathedral celebrates 125 years .. New seminarians start studies ... Card. George Pell: Cultivate virtue in Lent to remove vice ... Marist sisters' story told ... Pilgrims walk, pray on NZ heights .. Churchgoing good for health, research shows .. Popes' latest book on Jesus released .. Caritas upset with Vatican's decision .... Pentecost culture called for ... Advertising feature: Pilgrimages (5 pages)

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

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

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

Christchurch Earthquake - 22 February 2011

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

Act Of God? (photos)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/4812656/Act-of-God
That looks like tagging on the stone walls of St Peter's Anglican Church in Upper Riccarton. Really, who would dare? But when you get closer, you realise that the spray- painted words actually read "danger" and "stay clear". There is hurricane fencing around much of this 110-year-old church, even enclosing some of its historic graves. There are fallen stones on the ground. There is a notice on the door that no-one is allowed inside. This is a depressingly familiar sight in this city of ruined or partly ruined churches...

Emotional farewell for Irish victim of earthquake (photo)
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/4n5j7oa
One of the two Irishman killed in the Christchurch earthquake has been laid to rest in an emotional ceremony. Accountant John Joseph (J J) O'Connor, 40, originally from Abbeydorney, in Ireland, worked on the first floor of the Pyne Gould Corporation building which collapsed in the earthquake.

*******************
In other news ...
*******************

`Stirrer' and bus-shelter agitator
New Zealand Herald
http://tinyurl.com/4bblzz9
As a self-confessed ``bit of a stirrer'', George Shierny came to support a variety of causes _ from encouraging hospital facilities in Waitakere and North Shore, to wanting trees preserved on the cliffs of St Marys Bay, near the Harbour Bridge. And at the age of 71 he made a three-week bicycle ride to Parliament in Wellington (his best suit in a battered old suitcase) when he feared the Government might commercialise Auckland's regional parks. He also opposed the proposed 384m Sky Tower as a ``sophisticated hoarding to advertise gambling'', complaining that ``the focal point of a city used to be the church steeples _ now it's the damn casino...."

Puhoi prepares to turn 150 (photo)
Rodney Times
http://tinyurl.com/47v78u5
Puhoi is already gearing up to celebrate its 150th anniversary in June 2013.

No closure in death of priest
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/153391/no-closure-death-priest
Dunedin-born Fr Raymond John Garchow (64), who had lived in Australia for many years, died in Sydney this month. He was one of five Catholic brothers or priests accused of sexually abusing boys at the St John of God Order's Marylands school at Halswell, on the outskirts of Christchurch.

Church insurance costs push higher
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/153395/church-insurance-costs-push-higher
Cash-strapped New Zealand churches face a hike in insurance premiums after last month's earthquake caused an estimated $200 million worth of damage to Christchurch churches.

A hard-going but ultimately rewarding watch (photo)
The Marlborough Express
http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/arts-entertainment/4805313/A-hard-going-but-ultimately-rewarding-watch
The Ian Cross play The God Boy, a sharp social commentary on the 1950s, is a challenge to watch, but the production that opened in Blenheim last night is worth seeing.

Thieves target church (full text)
Wairarapa News
http://tinyurl.com/48zw86g
After attempting to get into buildings around St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Masterton, burglars broke in via a side window and stole a collection which had been earmarked for Christchurch earthquake victims. Police said there was evidence someone had attempted to jemmy open doors on a side building and the northern entrance to the church. Around $150 was taken from the relief fund. The burglary was reported to police just after midday on Sunday and it is believed the break-in happened between 8.30am and 4pm on Saturday.

*******************
News of the Schools
*******************

Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth: Art sale (full text)
North Taranaki Midweek
http://tinyurl.com/482cvs7
Francis Douglas memorial College is inviting artists to take part in an art auction on Saturday to raise funds for the school. The artist can set the reserve and the percentage or amount of money donated to the school. Organisers say the gala, an annual event, usually attracts about 2000 people. All artwork needs to have a name, contact details, medium, name of work and any other vital information. Artwork can be dropped off at House of Travel, New Plymouth, by Friday, March 25.

John Paul college, Rotorua: Facebook warning over student rants
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/facebook-warning-over-student-rants/3945627/

John Paul College, Rotorua: Sign this: Parents' brawls are out
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10714817

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Danica hopes for a ring of confidence (photo)
The Dominion Post
http://tinyurl.com/4bcjxew

St Joseph's, Levin, celebrates St Patrick's Day (photo caption)
The Horowhenua Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4hngnav

St Joseph's, Kaikoura: Evacuee twins’ warm goodbye to Kaikoura (photo)
Kaikoura Star
http://tinyurl.com/49tm2qw

St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch: Powers of invention on the boil (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/4798187/Powers-of-invention-on-the-boil

St Patrick's College, Silverstream: St Patrick’s namesake celebrates (photo)
Upper Hutt Leader
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/upper-hutt-leader/4796584/St-Patricks-namesake-celebrates

St Patrick's College, Silverstream: ’Stream in to win (photo)
Hutt News
http://tinyurl.com/4w6lxfe

St Patrick's School. Paraparaumu: St Patrick’s fundraiser
Kapiti Observer
http://tinyurl.com/4cj7htk

St Paul's School, Christchurch: Two quakes, two moves
Christchurch Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4s3y2g6

St Peter’s College, Gore: Talented kayaker working hard (photo)
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/4de6typ

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

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

menALIVE apostolate aims to help grow good Catholic men
http://www.catholicleader.com.au/news.php/features/menalive-apostolate-aims-to-help-grow-good-catholic-men_71944
Robert Falzon, one of the founders of menALIVE, talks about the growth in this national Catholic ministry to men founded in Brisbane in 2003

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

INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Lent'
A reflection by Jenny O'Brien, DRS at St Catherine's College, Wellington

'At the Well'
John 4: 5-15 - a reading and reflection with Very Rev. Frank Nelson and Rev. Canon Jenny Wilkens

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

'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** But it’s so hard! (40 martyrs to help you during Lent)

** “He is our leader. He seized power in a bloodless coup — All smothering.” (revolutions in the Middle East)

** The necessity of becoming acquainted with Faulconbridge (inspiration from T.S. Eliot's essays)

** Breaking with Blighty? (reasons to retain ties with the UK)

** The Mumblings of the Moon Man (the fearmongering of Ken Ring)


** So much beauty in the vows (Part 2 - the vow of poverty)



See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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NEW ZEALAND COMMENTARIES ON THE SUNDAY READINGS

Living the Word - Fr Frank Bird sm http://livingtheword.org.nz

Reflect - Veronica Lawson rsm http://www.welcom.org.nz/?sid=394

Daily Reflections (right-hand column) http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz

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ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

Crucifix case a victory for 'open door' Catholicism
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/crucifix-case-victory-open-door-catholicism

Sometimes historical turning points are lost on the people who actually experience them -- it takes time for their real meaning to emerge. In Catholic terms, something analogous may have happened last week. In case you missed it, here’s the story in a nutshell: In a stunning and unexpected development, the European Court of Human Rights reversed its own 2009 ruling and upheld Italy’s right to display crucifixes in its public school classrooms...

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FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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

WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

Te Kaihautu Mission Leader, Sisters of Mercy Ministries New Zealand Trust
Details in 'NZ Catholic' March 27 - April 9 2011, p.26, on http://www.sistersofmercy.org.nz/news/view_article.cfm?loadref=6&id=131 and from The Secretary, Nga Whaea Atawhai Tiaki Manatu Sisters of Mercy Ministries New Zealand Trust, P O Box 6015, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141, Ref: Te Kaihautu Mission Leader. Applications close 1 April 2011.

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NZ CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE

http://www.catholic.org.nz/news/fx-list-articles.cfm?ctype=MRART&loadref=50

Catholic Masses for national day of mourning (17 Mar 2011)
Catholic cathedrals and churches around New Zealand will offer Masses tomorrow for the victims of the Christchurch earthquake and also for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan...

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LENT 2011

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
http://www.caritas.org.nz/?sid=1126

Resources for Lent 2011: Online donation link ... Lenten resources for schools, parishes and groups ... Caritas Lenten Reflection Programme in English, Samoan, Tongan and (coming soon) Tokelauan ... List of contacts

Caritas's Lenten theme for 2011 is 'United by Our Common Humanity'. It derives from the New Zealand Bishops' statement 'A Consistent Ethic of Life – Te Kahu-O-te-Ora' which says, “A Consistent Ethic of life proclaims the dignity of every person. We are united by our common humanity, created in the image of God, and called to live in active love and tolerance of all who are different from ourselves.”

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and sharing resources. Caritas' Lent Appeal is a practical way to give to those in need. The Lent Appeal is Caritas' most important of the year, raising funds to support relief and development programmes overseas, as well as education and advocacy for social justice in Aotearoa New Zealand. In view of the severe impact of the Christchurch earthquake, this year, 25 percent of the Lent Appeal will go towards helping people most affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

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FROM THE SECULAR MEDIA

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Christchurch Earthquake - 22 February 2011

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

Irish cabinet minister touches down
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-earthquake/4787970/Irish-cabinet-minister-touches-down
Irish cabinet minister Frances Fitzgerald has arrived in Christchurch to attend the funeral of one of two Irishmen killed in the Christchurch quake and to thank the New Zealand government for all its support.

Missing Korean Woman Confirmed Dead From New Zealand Quake
http://www.arirang.co.kr/News/News_View.asp?nseq=113834&code=Ne2&category=2
A Korean woman who went missing after last month's 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand was confirmed dead on Thursday.

The end for a treasure? (photo)
The Timaru Herald
http://tinyurl.com/4hobzke
One of the main casualties of the February 22 earthquake in Christchurch was a magnificent landmark with special significance for Canterbury's Catholic community. Mike Crean reports.

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In other news ...
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Radio NZ. Saturday Morning, with Kim Hill.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/saturday/20110319
9:45 - Ric LaPlastrier: Futuna
Australian architect, visiting New Zealand to deliver The Dulux Futuna Lecture as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations for Futuna Chapel in Wellington.

Caritas Pledges $10000 for Japan Earthquake & Tsunami Relief
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1103/S00659/caritas-pledges-10000-for-japan-earthquake-tsunami-relief.htm
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand has pledged NZ$10,000 towards Caritas relief efforts in Japan following the earthquake and tsunami that has caused widespread destruction and claimed thousands of lives.

Brave venturer awarded for skills (photo)
Upper Hutt Leader
http://tinyurl.com/4dw3zw6
A St Joseph’s Venturer Scout has earned the highest achievement possible as a youth member of New Zealand Scouting. Rachel McCawe has completed her Queen’s Scout Award, training in leadership skills, risk management, camp craft and life skills.

Trite dismissals of faith lack relevance (opinion)
http://www.odt.co.nz/print/152000?page=0%2C1
We generally enjoy reading Joe Bennett's columns, which are usually informative, thoughtful and entertaining, but his offering last week (ODT, 10.3.11) was of a rather different character and warrants a response. For reasons unclear to us Bennett took the occurrence of the Christchurch earthquake as an opportunity to launch an attack on the Christian church and what it stands for...

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News of the Schools
*******************

Standards against morals say schools
North Shore Times
http://tinyurl.com/4qns2k5
The government’s national standards go against school morals of fairness and equality, Catholic principals say.

John Paul College, Rotorua: Fordlands youth park goes ahead despite opposition
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/fordlands-youth-park-goes-ahead-despite-opposition/3944587/

St Dominic's School, Blockhouse Bay, Auckland: College's big move (photo caption)
Central Leader
http://tinyurl.com/49yv69g

St John’s School, Mairangi Bay, Auckland: School jubilee (photo)
North Shore Times
http://tinyurl.com/4wedanc

St John Bosco School, New Plymouth: Children's safety priority for mum (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/4768357/Childrens-safety-priority-for-mum

St Joseph's School, Hastings: Comfortable in the water (photo caption)
The Hastings Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4forulj

St Joseph’s School, Hawera: St Joseph’s take back the banner (photos)
South Taranaki Star
http://tinyurl.com/4hffg54

St Joseph's School, Temuka: Hot competition in Temuka (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4768282/Hot-competition-in-Temuka

St Mary’s School, Blenheim: Revelry raises $30,000 (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/4765972/Revelry-raises-30-000

St Mary's School, Wanaganui: Polyfest group performs with passion (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/4769895/Polyfest-group-performs-with-passion

St Peter's College, Gore: Stars come out for St Peter's players
http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/entertainment/southern-arts/4780593/Stars-come-out-for-St-Peters-players

St Peter's School, Cambridge: Principal's issues for the election (photos)
Cambridge Edition
http://tinyurl.com/4fmrc2q

St Theresa's School, Plimmerton: Carnival goes green (photo)
Kapi-Mana News
http://tinyurl.com/49ywxux

Verdon College, Invercargill: Southlanders win medals
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/4qphtqd

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'A New Light'
Matthew 17: 1-9 - a reading and reflection with Zenaida Sevill and John Teariki.

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NEW ZEALAND CATHOLIC PODCASTS

http://station15.libsyn.com

** Station XV - Episode 42 - Earthquakes and mitres (Mon, 14 March 2011)

** Ignition: Talk 1: Friendship and Ethics. Parts 1, 2 and 3 (March 2011)
The newest show in the Station 15 podcast stable, Ignition will showcase Catholic talks and seminars that have been given in recent years and be published in easy-to-digest 15- or 20-minutes episodes. In this first episode, we begin a talk given by Fr Dominique Faure, a priest of the Community of St John, at the 2010 Hearts Aflame Summer School. The talk is on Friendship and Ethics. The second part of the four-part talk will be published next Monday, with new episodes made available each Monday.

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

'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** Life in the fast lane (fasting in the Romanian Orthodox tradition, and a prayer to St Joseph)

** “This Way of Life” – Must Watch! (a documentary about a rural family in New Zealand)

** Corrupt Bishops? (ecclesial abuse, causes and remedies)

** Splendour silenced (reflections on the Christchurch earthquake, photos of Christchurch Basilica)

** So much beauty in the vows… (on the evangelical counsel of chastity)


See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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

NEW ZEALAND COMMENTARIES ON THE SUNDAY READINGS

Living the Word - Fr Frank Bird sm http://livingtheword.org.nz

Reflect - Veronica Lawson rsm http://www.welcom.org.nz/?sid=394

Daily Reflections (right-hand column) http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz

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

ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

Courtyard of the Gentiles' promises boost to Catholic pride
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/courtyard-gentiles-promises-boost-catholic-pride

Somewhere deep in their souls, most Catholics long to feel proud of their church and its leaders. At times, however, that sense of pride can seem all but buried under an avalanche of heartache and bad news. For Catholics eager for signs of positive energy, next week should offer a badly needed boost. In Paris, March 24-25, the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Culture, under the leadership of its genial and erudite president, Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, will stage something called “The Courtyard of the Gentiles” -- a high-profile new forum for dialogue, rather than polemics, between believers and non-believers...

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

FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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

WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

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

NZ CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE

http://www.catholic.org.nz/news/fx-list-articles.cfm?ctype=MRART&loadref=50

** Masses and Services for those affected by earthquake (10 Mar 2011)

** "Lent will be observed in the ruins of a beautiful and gracious city:: Bishop Jones (9 Mar 2011)

** Message of Pope Benedict XVI for Lent 2011 (8 Mar 2011)

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LENT 2011

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
http://www.caritas.org.nz/?sid=1126

Resources for Lent 2011: Online donation link ... Lenten resources for schools, parishes and groups ... Caritas Lenten Reflection Programme in English, Samoan, Tongan and (coming soon) Tokelauan ... List of contacts

Caritas's Lenten theme for 2011 is 'United by Our Common Humanity'. It derives from the New Zealand Bishops' statement 'A Consistent Ethic of Life – Te Kahu-O-te-Ora' which says, “A Consistent Ethic of life proclaims the dignity of every person. We are united by our common humanity, created in the image of God, and called to live in active love and tolerance of all who are different from ourselves.”

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and sharing resources. Caritas' Lent Appeal is a practical way to give to those in need. The Lent Appeal is Caritas' most important of the year, raising funds to support relief and development programmes overseas, as well as education and advocacy for social justice in Aotearoa New Zealand. In view of the severe impact of the Christchurch earthquake, this year, 25 percent of the Lent Appeal will go towards helping people most affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

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'NZ CATHOLIC' - March 13 - 26, 2011 - No. 361

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

In this issue: Broken lives, broken hearts, broken buildings ... Youth team cook up a feed ... Catholic schools take in Chch students ... Helpers team up to clean up Carmelite Sisters' property ... Trying times after big Chch earthquake ... Big shake traumatises our second City ... Coadjutor bishop for P. North ... Defensive approach is out, CUF's president affirms ... Chch priest farewelled (Fr Paddy Cahill) ... Pope says Lent a time to forgo selfishness ... Advertising Features: E-mail and Website Directory; Legal Services;

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FROM THE SECULAR MEDIA

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Christchurch Earthquake - 22 February 2011

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Catholic Church's Lent Appeal: 25 Percent To Christchurch
http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/catholic-church039s-lent-appeal-25-percent-christchurch/5/84724
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand will allocate at least 25 percent of its annual Lent Appeal towards assisting people hit by the Christchurch earthquake. The Lent Appeal runs for six weeks from Ash Wednesday on 9 March through to Easter, and is Caritas' most important fundraiser of the year.

Catholicism’s spiritual home for Canterbury-Westland in doubt (photos)
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/4amrt88
A dome and part of the tower that supported it tumbled from Christchurch’s Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in the February 22 earthquake. Before the quake, a statue of Our Lady on a ledge inside the tower was facing inwards, where bellringers could see it as they tolled the bells. After the quake, it was facing outwards. The bells are silent now. The ringers are wondering what message lies in Our Lady’s 180-degree turn.

Garth George: Almighty comfort after disaster. God didn't cause the Christchurch quake, but we can thank him for what was spared
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10711200

Earthquake victims
The Dominion Post
(Extract] Helen Margaret Chambers, 44, was the kind of woman who could make things happen. "I don't know whether she liked problems but, when she was faced with a problem, she was the woman who would find the solution to fix it," Christ the King Catholic School principal Mike Bonisch said. Mrs Chambers - "one of life's gems" - had been president of the Catholic integrated primary school's parents' council. One of her sons was head boy, as his brother had also been.

3 News (full text)
A prayer service will take place today [Monday] at 4pm on the grounds of St Mary’s Catholic Church in New Brighton to recognise the closure of the Church. The church, due to celebrate its centennial later this year, will be demolished due to damage incurred from the earthquake on 22 February. Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Bishop Barry Jones, will attend the service along with Parish Priest of 10 years, Fr Bryan Parish, and families of those involved with the building of the church in 1911.

*******************
In other news ...
*******************

Dennehy descendants sought (photo)
A Hunterville man seeks the inheritor of land unclaimed for 118 years.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/4761442/Dennehy-descendants-sought/
For 32 years, Hunterville farmer Peter Henderson has paid rates on land that isn't his, hoping a descendant of the original owner will someday claim it. The land was issued by Crown grant in March 1893, to Edmond James Dennehy.

Chile quake victims supported (photo)
http://www.odt.co.nz/regions/central-otago/150410/chile-quake-victims-supported
The congregation at yesterday's World Day of Prayer ecumenical service in Cromwell were told their donations would help provide for continued rehabilitation in Chile, following the earthquake there in February last year.

*******************
News of the Schools
*******************

Catholic Cathedral College and St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch: Christchurch pupils set to share campus
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/4760283/Christchurch-pupils-set-to-share-campus

Garin College, Nelson: Bright sparks join forces (photo)
The Nelson Mail
http://tinyurl.com/4jm6y7h

John Paul II High School, Greymouth: Christchurch earthquake triggers a chain reaction of generosity
http://www.starcanterbury.co.nz/local/news/latest-updates-day-14/3943300/

Marian College and St Bede's College, Christchurch: Pupils to return to shared sites
http://tinyurl.com/6yhzeq2

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Colourful match at Sacred Heart (photos)
The Hutt News
http://tinyurl.com/4vguxx3

Sacred Heart Girls’ College, New Plymouth: Catching a lift (photo)
Waikato Times
http://tinyurl.com/4phjfs8

St Mary’s School, Blenheim: Dunking for school funds
Marlborough Midweek
http://tinyurl.com/46m5b3p

St Mary's Catholic School, Gisborne: Young superheroes in the making : Push to be upstanding citizens, by Genevieve Helliwell
Bay of Plenty Times — A006 — 07 March 2011
All children dream of saving the world. And the children at St Mary's Catholic School morph into superheroes every day.
But instead of wearing capes and tight Lycra outfits, they wear uniforms and follow a set of guidelines that encourage each and every one of them to push beyond the norm and strive to become upstanding citizens in the community. [The full text can be read via the public libraries Newztext service]

St Patrick's College, Silverstream: Wellington College’s depth wins McEvedy Shield (photos)
The Hutt News
http://tinyurl.com/4n8yqbb

St Patrick’s Catholic School, Taupo: Some fun run funds go to Christchurch (full text)
Taupo Times
http://tinyurl.com/4ae6q5j

St Patrick's School Taupo: Community turns out for pancakes (photo caption)
Taupo Times
http://tinyurl.com/48ov6w3

St Patrick’s School, Te Awamutu: Carmelite priest joins school (photo)
Ruapehu Press
http://tinyurl.com/4mb4he4

St Peter’s Catholic School, Cambridge: Schools rise to challenge and win (photo)
Cambridge Edition
http://tinyurl.com/4w9rjpo

Sts Peter and Paul School, Lower Hutt: Standing up for Canterbury (photo caption)
The Hutt News
http://tinyurl.com/4qoz6gm
Sts Peter and Paul School mufti day raised more than two thousand dollars for Christchurch earthquake victims.

Verdon College, Invercargill: Multi-gifted Lucy finds life hectic (photo)
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/4lahhfx

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

INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Put to the Test'
Matthew 4: 1-11 - a reading and reflection with Violet Kudzotsa and Stephen Ready.

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

'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** Dark Night of the Soul (spiritual reading for Lent)

** ‘Wait, I’m no missionary! I don’t even believe in Jebus!’ (on wearing the Ash Wednesday ashes in public: I)

** HR3 – reproductive health as a convenient euphemism (public funding for abortion in the US)

** The ash-marked brow (on wearing the Ash Wednesday ashes in public: II)

** Liturgical Abuse weakens the Faith

** We interrupt this broadcast… (What Icon Media has been up to lately)

** Children’s day (on working with foster families)

See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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

NEW ZEALAND COMMENTARIES ON THE SUNDAY READINGS

Living the Word - Fr Frank Bird sm http://livingtheword.org.nz

Reflect - Veronica Lawson rsm http://www.welcom.org.nz/?sid=394

Daily Reflections (right-hand column) http://www.maristmessenger.co.nz

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

ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

Memo to a divided church: Meet the Focolare
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/memo-divided-church-meet-focolare

Not long ago, I was invited to address a Catholic organization in the United States that’s experiencing tensions with other sectors of the church. After my usual shtick about avoiding the trap of tribalism, someone asked if I saw any concrete signs of hope. One of the bishops volunteered to tackle the question. He said if what we’re talking about is overcoming divisions, there’s a great resource to draw upon: Focolare, a Catholic movement whose spirituality is premised on unity...

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

FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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

WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

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

NZ CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE

http://www.catholic.org.nz/news/fx-list-articles.cfm?ctype=MRART&loadref=50

Update on damage to Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament (2 Mar 2011)
Expert advisors met with Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Bishop Barry Jones, and diocesan personnel today to consider the badly damaged Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament...

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FROM THE SECULAR MEDIA

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Christchurch Earthquake - 22 February 2011

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

3 News and TVNZ. London quake service in Westminster Cathedral:

3 News:
Video report [with a rare glimpse of the interior of London's Catholic cathedral]:
http://www.3news.co.nz/Kiwis-gather-at-Westminster-Cathedral-in-London/tabid/309/articleID/200749/Default.aspx

Text report:
http://www.3news.co.nz/Kiwis-gather-at-Westminster-Cathedral-in-London/tabid/423/articleID/200749/Default.aspx

TVNZ:
Video report:
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/thousands-gather-london-quake-service-4044639/video

Text report:
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/thousands-gather-london-quake-service-4044639


Radio NZ. Saturday Morning, with Kim Hill.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/saturday/20110305
10:45 - Interview with Fr Charles Drennan, native Cantabrian, former speechwriter in the Vatican Secretariat of State, parish priest of St Anne's Woolston, Christchurch, Administrator of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament (which was partially destroyed during the February earthquake) and Coadjutor Bishop-designate of Palmerston North diocese.

Brownlee takes hard line on damaged heritage buildings (photo)
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10710318
The Catholic Basilica is one of few Christchurch heritage buildings Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee would like to see resources go into rebuilding.

Asian Church responds to NZ quake
http://www.cathnewsindia.com/2011/03/04/asian-church-responds-to-nz-quake/
Churches in Asia are calling for prayers and support as rescuers have officially given up hope of finding more survivors of New Zealand’s deadly earthquake.

Special Mass at strengthened cathedral
The New Zealand Herald
http://tinyurl.com/4gwxuao
Auckland CBD office workers flocked to the earthquake-strengthened Cathedral of St Patrick and St Joseph in Wyndham St at lunch time on Friday to attend a special Mass for the people of Christchurch.

Catholic cathedral dome to come down (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/4725484/Cathedral-dome-to-come-down-after-earthquake
The dome of Christchurch's Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament will be removed amid fears it may topple.

Cathedral a sign of a city in ruin
http://www.catholicleader.com.au/news.php/top-stories/cathedral-a-sign-of-a-city-in-ruin_71754
The director of a Christchurch Catholic group of young adults has told of his ongoing mission to distribute sausages and lollipops to traumatised adults and children in the earthquake-shattered city.

Quake touches hearts in the old country, by Dominic O'Connell
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/48r79dg
A few days after arriving back in my home town of Christchurch from the United Kingdom a fortnight ago, I was wondering what all the fuss was about. big earthquake, 7.1 on the Richter scale, had struck in September but the city seemed in good shape.

Bells toll to remember quake dead
http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/canterbury-earthquake/69639/bells-toll-to-remember-quake-dead
Cathedral bells tolled around the country at 12.51pm to mark two minutes' silence in remembrance of those who died in Christchurch's earthquake exactly a week ago.

A poignant Sunday in quake-ravaged Christchurch, New Zealand
http://www.christiancentury.org/article/2011-02/poignant-sunday-quake-ravaged-christchurch-new-zealand
On the Sunday after an earthquake ravaged New Zealand's second-largest city, worshippers gathered outdoors, in unfamiliar churches and next to damaged buildings to reflect, pray, mourn and give thanks.

Candle lit in honour of victims (photo caption)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/4711272/Candle-lit-in-honour-of-victims
The Vergeer brothers Marcel, 13, (left) and Andre, 11, of Fairfax, were two of dozens of western Southlanders lighting candles yesterday at St Joseph's Catholic church in Otautau to honour the many who died in the Christchurch earthquake.

Radio NZ (full text)
Staff and pupils from four Wellington colleges remembered the victims of the Christchurch earthquake at the McEvedy Shield athletics meeting at Newtown Park this afternoon. Two and half thousand spectators and four hundred athletes from Rongotai, St Pat's Town, St Pat's Silverstream and Wellington colleges marked the occasion. The principal of Rongotai College, Kevin Carter, says the New Zealanders of all ages have been affected by the tragedy.

Christchurch earthquake: Faithful flock to church services (photos; video)
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10709120
Thousands of people in Christchurch as well as the rest of the country today paid their respects to those killed in Tuesday's devastating earthquake.

*******************
In other news ...
*******************

Memorial lies in carving (photo)
Taupo Times
http://tinyurl.com/45qrxmx
The family of Eoin Doran, a 21-year-old Irish tourist who drowned in the Waikato River in 2008, has gifted Taupo a memorial to their son.

Plimmerton artist holds charity auction for hospice (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/kapi-mana-news/4713730/Plimmerton-artist-holds-charity-auction-for-hospice
John Heijnen says he has given away more of his paintings then he's sold, but he is banking on the local community's generosity to raise money for a worthy cause later this month.

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News of the Schools
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Faith schools on the rise: Religious-based schools have seen a surge in demand.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/education/news/article.cfm?c_id=35&objectid=10710391
Parents are rushing to enrol their children in religious-based education with one principal saying the Catholic brand is ``very hot'' at the moment.

John Paul College, Rotorua: Early starts among lengths swimmers go (photo)
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/have-your-say/news/early-starts-among-lengths-swimmers-go/3942297/

Marian College, Christchurch: Schools to share space due to quake damage
http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/canterbury-earthquake/69915/quake-high-schools-to-share-space

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Thomson steps outside comfort zone (photo)
The Dominion Post
http://tinyurl.com/4vb9buk

Sacred Heart College, Auckland: Cup a possibility (photo)
Matamata Chronicle
http://tinyurl.com/4go8hd2

St Brendan's School, Heretaunga, Upper Hutt: Empty piggies but big hearts (photo)
Upper Hutt Leader
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/upper-hutt-leader/4723233/Empty-piggies-but-big-hearts

St Patrick's college, Wellington: Wgtn Coll’s depth wins McEvedy (photos)
The Wellingtonian
http://tinyurl.com/4hge6cf

St Catherine’s and St Patrick’s Colleges, Wellington: Keeping art alive in the suburbs (photo)
The Wellingtonian
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/the-wellingtonian/4723410/Keeping-art-alive-in-the-suburbs

St Joseph's School, Upper Hutt: Radio NZ comforted Kiwis in Libya (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/4719682/Radio-NZ-comforted-Kiwis-in-Libya

St Mary’s Catholic School, Auckland: Ukulele class is the best (photo)
East and Bays Courier
http://tinyurl.com/4mdjwxq

St Patrick’s Catholic School, Taupo: Taupo hosts pupils (photo)
Taupo Times
http://tinyurl.com/4trsrv2

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Don't be anxious'
Matthew 7: 21-27 - a reading and reflection with Sister Stephanie Kitching and Malia Vito-Tupai.

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'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** Healthcare? (a schoolgirl on the pill)

** “God is angry: we’ve made a false idol of this Brad Goodman.” (Middle East: the death of one man)

** Population control? (deaths by abortion of African American babies)

** A Breath of Fresh Air – all the way from Oxford (natural disasters in light of Christian teaching, and a pleasant surprise in the public library)

** The Rangiora Earthquake Express (getting supplies to Christchurch; photos)

** What are we listening to? (shocked at the latest Billboard Top 100)

** Social Beings (people need people)

See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

The Vatican beyond its worst days, and Rome beyond the Vatican
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/vatican-beyond-its-worst-days-and-rome-beyond-vatican

Popular culture is full of misconceptions about Rome, but here are two of the most persistent: That the Vatican is exclusively defined by its worst days, and that Catholic life in Rome is exclusively defined by the Vatican...

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FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EVENTS

Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference: "Put out into the deep" (Lk 5:4)
Friday 4 March - Sunday 6 March 2011
Barrycourt Quality Hotel Conference Centre, 20 Gladstone Road, Parnell, Auckland, NZ
Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 19 - 24, p.9, at http://www.catholiccharismatic.org.nz/files/isao-conf-brochure-2010.pdf and from Conference Secretary, St Joseph's Centre, 1 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, NZ; tel: (09) 835 1396 (ask for Anil Baptist); fax: (09) 489 3021; e-mail: aucklandccr@gmail.com

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EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

* Pastoral Ministry to the Catholic Deaf Community, Catholic Diocese of Auckland
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Feb. 13-26 2011 p.22 and from Michael Beaumont, Pompallier Centre, tel: (09) 360 3051; fax: (09) 376 2829; e-mail: michaelb@cda.org.nz Applications close 11 March 2011

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NZ CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE

http://www.catholic.org.nz/news/fx-list-articles.cfm?ctype=MRART&loadref=50

23 Feb 2011 Catholic Masses and Services for those affected by earthquake
23 Feb 2011 Message from Catholic Bishop of Christchurch
23 Feb 2011 Message from President of New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference
23 Feb 2011 Pope sends message to Catholic bishop of Christchurch
23 Feb 2011 Caritas pledges $25,000 to earthquake recovery
23 Feb 2011 Pope appoints Coadjutor Bishop for Palmerston North
23 Feb 2011 Message from President of Australian Catholic Bishops Conference

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'NZ CATHOLIC' - Feb. 27 - Mar 12 - No. 360

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

In this issue: Stalling of abortion bid cheers pro-lifers ... Stolen sacred vessels found .. Powerful design wins WYD T-shirt competition .. Communities open new churches ... An atheist defends religion ... Methodists and Catholics continue their dialogue ... Special Feature: Caritas - The Lent Appeal 2011 ... Advertising Feature: Josephite Retreat Centre

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

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CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE - 22 FEBRUARY 2011

In Christchurch, New Zealand: shattered churches, grieving parishioners
http://www.eni.ch/featured/article.php?id=4742
Members of at least ten damaged Catholic parishes will be celebrating Mass at schools and other Catholic and Anglican parishes.

ll Christchurch parishes closed until engineers inspect them
http://www.catholicreview.org/subpages/storyworldnew-new.aspx?action=9560
No Catholic church or school in Christchurch will be used until engineers have declared it safe. Christchurch Bishop Barry P. Jones announced the measure Feb. 25, three days after a magnitude 6.3 earthquake rocked New Zealand’s second-largest city, causing more than 100 deaths and widespread damage.

Strong earthquake puts Diocese of Christchurch 'out of action'
http://www.catholicsentinel.org/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=34&ArticleID=14312
Christchurch, New Zealand — A devastating midday earthquake Feb. 22 caused at least 75 deaths, seriously damaged the Catholic Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament and put the Diocese of Christchurch "out of action."

Pope Benedict sends message of condolence (photo)
New Zealand Herald
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/religion-and-beliefs/news/article.cfm?c_id=301&objectid=10708367
A message from the Pope was read out at a special service to pray for safety in the days ahead at the Our Lady of Victories Church special service last night.

Missio reports from New Zealand quake zone
http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=17709
Within a couple of hours of the earthquake striking Christchurch in New Zealand, Fr Paul Shannahan SM, National Director of Missio-New Zealand, quickly sent a message to all Missio offices around the English-speaking world from Wellington in the North Island and approximately 270 miles away from the epicentre of the earthquake. As he wrote, the full extent of the tragedy was yet to unfold. At time of going to press there are 65 people known to have died with an unknown number buried beneath the rubble of fallen masonry...

Quake: Hope fades after chapel search
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-earthquake/4697308/Quake-Hope-fades-after-chapel-search
Rescuers have failed to find anyone alive after earlier reports of a survivor sparked a frantic search of Holy Cross Chapel in Chancery Lane.

Caritas Pledges $25000 to Relief & Recovery after Chch Quake
http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900sid/KHII-8EC4FD?OpenDocument
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand has pledged NZ$25,000 towards relief and recovery following the latest devastating quake to hit Christchurch on 22 February 2011.

Wedding nuptials go ahead (photo; video report)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/canterbury-earthquake/4704521/Wedding-nuptials-go-ahead
A groom who feared his bride-to-be would not live to see their wedding believes her survival was a sign the marriage was destiny. Emma Howard and Chris Greenslade tied the knot today at the Christ the King Catholic Church in Burnside, after Howard was rescued from ruins of the Pyne Gould building on Tuesday.

Bride-to-be makes wedding from ruins of building
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10708585

Australia sends condolences to New Zealand over deadly earthquake
http://tinyurl.com/4cl8p4q

Rest homes evacuated, others need food, water
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/christchurch-earthquake/news/article.cfm?c_id=1502981&objectid=10708583

New Zealand disaster brings grief to Irish border village
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/republic-of-ireland/new-zealand-disaster-brings-grief-to-irish-border-village-15094454.html

Church asks for prayers for Cebu nurses
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view/20110225-322152/Church-asks-for-prayers-for-Cebu-nurses

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In other news ...
*******************

Pair is still dancing to same tune (photo)
East and Bays Courier
http://tinyurl.com/4749w39
Ted and Kathy Haughey still can’t agree who invited each other to the dance that would lead to their 50-year union. But regardless of who invited who it was obviously meant to be. The Haugheys celebrated their golden anniversary this month.

Church dedication tribute to past and present (photo)
Franklin County News
http://tinyurl.com/4qnerhl
Dedication of the new St Patrick’s Church in Pukekohe on February 13 made me feel extremely privileged and lucky to be a New Zealander.

Church blessed
http://www.odt.co.nz/your-town/wanaka/148507/church-blessed
The Holy Family Catholic Church in Wanaka was blessed by Bishop Colin Campbell at a special Mass this month to celebrate the opening. Up to 300 people filled the church, which was designed by Sarah Scott Architects and cost $1.5 million-$2 million to build. The Most Rev Campbell, giving a homily to the congregation, described the church as a "family home" for the Catholic faith.

*******************
News of the Schools
*******************

Catholic school damaged a second time (extract)
Radio New Zealand Newswire — 25 Feb 2011
The chief executive of the Catholic Education Office, Pat Lynch, says so far it appears four of the Christchurch's 24 Catholic schools have significant liquefaction or structural problems. He says the schools might need to relocate in order to reopen.

Carmel College, Auckland: Students spell out desire to win (photo)
North Shore Times http://tinyurl.com/4j53tsc

John Paul College, Rotorua: Students' painting tribute to teacher who died
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/local/news/students-painting-tribute-to-teacher-who-died/3941322/

Rosmini College, Auckland: Head boys ready to lead by example (photo)
North Shore Times http://tinyurl.com/4lqp6a8

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Locals picked for team
The Hutt News http://tinyurl.com/49amxpu

Sacred Heart Girls' College, New Plymouth: Tangi honours a man born to lead (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/4702906/Tangi-honours-a-man-born-to-lead

Sacred Heart School, Invercargill: Pupils show true colours to ease pain (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/4707228/Pupils-show-true-colours-to-ease-pain

St Bede's College, Christchurch: Lunch time when earthquake hits at school (full text)
Radio New Zealand Newswire — 22 Feb 2011
A Christchurch school says most of their students were out on the field when an earthquake hit. St Bedes College spokeswoman, Sally Bird, says the earthquake hit during the school's lunch-hour. She says most of the boys at the school were out on the field. Ms Bird says parents have started to pick up their sons, but students who are still there and school borders, are being looked after. Sally Bird says there was no damage to the school - in the suburb of Papanui.

St Joseph's School, Oamaru: Schools take shaken pupils (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4702435/Schools-take-shaken-pupils

St Joseph’s School, Te Aroha: Go by Bike Day attracts large breakfast turnout (photos)
Piako Post http://tinyurl.com/4f3wet3

St Kevin's College, Oamaru: Oamaru students open hostel to family fleeing quake
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4697327/Oamaru-students-open-hostel-to-family-fleeing-quake

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Don't be anxious'
Matthew 6: 24-34 - a reading and reflection with Sister Stephanie Kitching and Malia Vito-Tupai.

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

'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** Suffering, frustration and humility (inside the Christchurch Town Hall)

** “What kind of God would allow that?”

** Eternal Rest

** Bringing out the best in the Kiwi spirit

** The Forty Hours’ Devotion

** Shock horror – Catholics prefer priests (The Samoan chaplaincy controversy)

** The pros and cons of being righteous

See also Gavin Abraham's blog 'The Catholic Soapbox:
http://catholicsoapbox.com

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ALL THINGS CATHOLIC - John L. Allen Jr

http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic

Traditionalists add spice to the Catholic stew
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/traditionalists-add-spice-catholic-stew

If ever an object lesson were needed in the complexities of running the universal Catholic Church, a recent interview with Bishop Bernard Fellay, the Swiss head of the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X, offers it in living color. It may be an especially apposite read for liberals, both inside and outside the church, who sometimes struggle to grasp that there’s actually Catholic life to the right of the pope...

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

FACEBOOK

Pompallier's People: The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Catholic-Church-in-Aotearoa-New-Zealand/149916141686808

Catholic Discipleship College
http://www.facebook.com/cdcnz

'The Fifteenth Station'
http://www.facebook.com/station15

SMNZ Marists - the Society of Mary in New Zealand
http://www.facebook.com/Marists

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

WORLD NEWS OF THE CHURCH

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

http://www.romereports.com (video)

http://www.youtube.com/vatican (news of Pope Benedict - video)

CatholicHerald.co.uk - Morning Catholic must-reads:
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/author/luke/page/14/

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

EVENTS

Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference: "Put out into the deep" (Lk 5:4)
Friday 4 March - Sunday 6 March 2011
Barrycourt Quality Hotel Conference Centre, 20 Gladstone Road, Parnell, Auckland, NZ
Details in 'NZ Catholic' December 19 - 24, p.9, at http://www.catholiccharismatic.org.nz/files/isao-conf-brochure-2010.pdf and from Conference Secretary, St Joseph's Centre, 1 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, NZ; tel: (09) 835 1396 (ask for Anil Baptist); fax: (09) 489 3021; e-mail: aucklandccr@gmail.com

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

EMPLOYMENT

[Teaching vacancies in New Zealand Catholic schools are advertised in the
Vacancies section of the Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz ]

* Pastoral Ministry to the Catholic Deaf Community, Catholic Diocese of Auckland
Details in 'NZ Catholic' Feb. 13-26 2011 p.22 and from Michael Beaumont, Pompallier Centre, tel: (09) 360 3051; fax: (09) 376 2829; e-mail: michaelb@cda.org.nz Applications close 11 March 2011