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

FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

Pope's Easter Mass to be on NZ TV channels on April 25
http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz/viewDocument.aspx?DocumentID=2107
Triangle and Stratos Television are to help Catholics celebrate one of the most important events in their religious calendar by broadcasting the Easter Papal Mass and message from St Peter's Square, Vatican City on both channels this Easter Monday (April 25) at 10:30am New Zealand time... [Also on the Internet at http://www.ecasttv.co.nz/channel_detail.php?program_id=&channel_id=177 - ML ]

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

***********
EASTER 2011
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A time to imagine what might be
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10720638
An Easter message from the churches of Auckland

Crossing Paths At Easter (photo caption)
The Dominion Post
http://tinyurl.com/42l7bn6
Churchgoers literally had their own cross to bear as they gathered together for an ecumenical Good Friday procession. The 90-minute march began from St Mary’s Anglican Church in Whitby at 8am yesterday and ended at St Teresa’s Catholic ..Church in Plimmerton.

Store to flout law on Easter trade
Marlborough Express
http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/4914967/Store-to-flout-law-on-Easter-trade
Blenheim New World is to open on Easter Sunday, defying a Department of Labour ban on trading on the day.

Disasters prompt religious revival
Churches see lift in numbers on pews (photo)
http://www.bayofplentytimes.co.nz/local/news/disasters-prompt-religious-revival/3949290/
Tauranga churches are expecting large congregations this Easter because of a resurgence in the popularity of religion.

Island churches expect good Easter turnout (photo)
Waiheke Marketplace
http://tinyurl.com/3fhsh6k

Walk to mark Easter
Hauraki Herald
http://tinyurl.com/3voj4fa

The Walk of the Cross (photo)
Kapi Mana News
http://tinyurl.com/3gds4bv

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OTHER NEWS
**********

For God's Sake (photos)
The Dominion Post — Your Weekend — 23 Apr 2011 — 8
Pages one and two: http://tinyurl.com/3bhpcjj
Pages three and four: http://tinyurl.com/3pesmrj
Pages five and six: http://tinyurl.com/3qgf9gl

When was the last time you talked with your mates about God? As members of a secular society, many New Zealanders consider their faith a private matter. This Easter, Sarah Catherall talks to Kiwis (*) about what they really believe and finds a diverse spirituality.

* Sir Paul Callaghan, scientist; Warren Maxwell, musician; Lynley Webster, real estate agency administrator; Celia Wade-Brown, Wellington mayor; John Dew, Catholic Archbishop Of Wellington; Hamish Carson, athlete; Bob Parker, mayor of Christchurch; Mary Denton, Federation of Islamic Associations of NZ


Historic Lyttelton churches hurt (photo)
Christchurch Mail
http://tinyurl.com/3je8ocq
The fate of Lyttelton's historic St Joseph's Catholic Church hangs in the balance ...

Surgery quest for brave girl (photo)
http://www.bayofplentytimes.co.nz/local/news/surgery-quest-for-brave-girl/3949306/
A Papamoa family desperate for their daughter to receive life-changing eye surgery unavailable in New Zealand is hoping to obtain money for the operation to be performed in New York.

Priest honours relative (photo)
North Shore Times
http://tinyurl.com/3w26wbk
A newly ordained priest who’s leading an Anzac Day service in Glenfield says it is a chance to honour relatives who in fought in World War Two. Father Brian Lange, who became a priest in May last year at age 63, says his father and uncle both fought in the war.

Catholics get together for messages of inspiration
North Shore Times
http://tinyurl.com/3fxu4ou
Legendary Australian journalist Michael Willesee is one of the main speakers at a Catholic convention on the North Shore.

Farewell Peter Keenan (photo)
The Horowhenua Mail
http://tinyurl.com/3hr7l5q
About 300 people gathered at St Joseph’s Church on Monday to celebrate the life of Horowhenua councillor Peter Keenan, who passed away on Wednesday of last week after a long battle with cancer.

Positive music earns scholarship reward
Horowhenua Mail
http://tinyurl.com/3c4ajm4
Horowhenua songstress Teresa Hoskins has again been rewarded for her musical talents, scoring one of 15 Whitireia Polytechnic scholarships.

Innovative nun’s focus on making a difference (photo)
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/3hxln46
In 1972, three nuns of the Order of Mercy stunned Christchurch Catholics by resigning from teaching at Villa Maria College and moving to Aranui. The initiator was Sister Teresa O’Connor. Described by colleague Sister Pauline O’Regan as a visionary, O’Connor planned a community development scheme among the needy in new housing areas of north-east Christchurch.

Golden celebration for couple's milestone (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4898952/Golden-celebration-for-couples-milestone
Fifty years of marriage has just "flown by" for Jane and Tom Coughlan. The pair celebrated their anniversary in style this weekend, with friends and family travelling from as far away as Auckland to attend the festivities at Sacred Heart Basilica.

Church welcomes special visas for religious workers (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/4902895/Church-welcomes-visas-for-religious-workers/
The Catholic Church is welcoming the development of a special priest's visa, saying current immigration laws discriminate against religious workers for responding to a "calling", not a job advertisement.

Dedicated to good works (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/obituaries/4907476/Dedicated-to-good-works
One of the last of the handful of Invercargill women who set up the National Council of Women in Southland half a century ago was farewelled in a Requiem Mass at St Mary's Basilica in the city last week. Kathleen Patricia Hall died at the age of 91 in Hamilton, where, following the loss of her husband, Len, she had made her home with her son, David.

Traffic stopped for former officer
Cambridge Edition
http://tinyurl.com/3m7j4yz
William Max Riley died last Tuesday, April 12, at Resthaven aged 72.

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

Garin College, Nelson: Garin faces off with Golden Bay (photos) The Leader Richmond-Waimea http://tinyurl.com/3ko2kjz

Kavanagh College, Dunedin: Kavanagh College expansion begins (photo) http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/157016/kavanagh-college-expansion-begins

Marian College, St Bede's College, Christchurch: Marian and St Bede’s to share site till end of year (full text) The Press http://tinyurl.com/3v9jcua

McCauley High School, Auckland: Govt foolish to sniff around school nursing for savings New Zealand Herald — A013 — 18 April 2011 http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10719995

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Julianne Alvarez confident of another top showing (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/golf/4902725/Alvarez-confident-of-top-showing

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Quartet signs off with a splash as Sacred Heart claim bronze medal (photo) The Dominion Post http://tinyurl.com/3qddnvt

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Sacred Heart looked likely (photo) Hutt News http://tinyurl.com/3lx2s5f

Sacred Heart College, Napier: Culinary cool (photo) The Napier Mail http://tinyurl.com/3mrhfxm

Sacred Heart Girls College, Christchurch: Warm memories were unexpectedly evoked (photo) The Dominion Post http://tinyurl.com/3jfqbck

St John’s College, Hamilton: Students enchanted by Winn’s spell (photo) Waikato Times http://tinyurl.com/3pr3gjd

St Joseph’s School, Picton: 1000 daffodil bulbs put in ground (photo) The Marlborough Express http://tinyurl.com/44gnmw5

St Patrick's College, Wellington: Sacked St Pat’s staff member admits theft (photo) The Dominion Post http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/4898715/Sacked-St-Pats-worker-admits-theft

Verdon College, Invercargill: Teacher returns to inspire (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/4898900/Teacher-returns-to-inspire

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

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'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

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

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EVENTS

Eucharistic Convention 2011
April 29 - May 1 2011, Westlake Boys High Auditorium, Takapuna, North Shore, Auckland
http://www.eucharisticconvention.com

Jesus 4 Real Camps, 2011, Palm Grove Christian Camp, Paraparaumu
http://www.jesus4real.org.nz
Years 11 - 13 : Wednesday 27 April - Sunday 1 May
("Early Bird" Registrations close 16 March, All Registrations close 13 April)

Years 9 - 10 : Wednesday 12 - Sunday 16 October
("Early Bird" Registrations close 31 August, All Registrations close 28 September)

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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 ]

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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 BISHOPS' CONFERENCE

Updated information on Catholic parishes and Mass times in Christchurch and the status of Christchurch Catholic Schools

http://www.catholic.org.nz/news/fx-view-article.cfm?ctype=MRART&loadref=50&id=207

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'WEL-COM'

http://www.welcom.org.nz

** News **
Working for the common good - being salt and light Social Justice hui through the eyes of those who came ... Christchurch quake a Wellington response ... Archbishop John Dew: An archdiocesan plan for managing change ...

** Columns **
Archbishop's column: A Shoreless Ocean ... Verbum Domini - the word of God and the Holy Spirit, a continuing analysis of the document from last year's Synod, by Kieran Fenn FMS ... Editorial: discrimination continues in new law: The Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill passes into law, by Cecily McNeill ...

** Features **
In the wake of a quake 'I will never forget you' ... Answers to questions I don't have - the new translation ... SS Agape, Chionia and Irene, virgins and martyrs killed for hiding the scriptures AD 304

** Palmerston North **
A Scandinavian celebration ... Prayer for Scandinavian migrants ... New bishop coming but not quite yet

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FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

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Key backs Easter trading
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/have-your-say/news/key-backs-easter-trading/3948548/
Prime Minister John Key wants the rules around Easter trading liberalised and he says it is a conscience vote and people need to vote that way. He believes if MPs voted on Easter trading based on what their conscience told them the bill would pass.

Caritas maintains relationships in face of Govt funding drop
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1104/S00412/caritas-maintains-relationships-in-face-of-govt-funding-drop.htm
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand maintained most of its international partnerships in 2010, despite a difficult financial year.

Caritas & St Vincent de Paul Society bring winter warmth to Christchurch residents
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1104/S00398/agencies-bring-winter-warmth-to-christchurch-residents.htm
Caritas is helping provide warm winter clothing for Christchurch residents left out in the cold following the February earthquake. Caritas is partnering with the St Vincent de Paul Society and a Christchurch clothing company for the project.

Recycle shop makes a move (photo)
Waiheke Marketplace
http://tinyurl.com/3sfdv8g
A community recycling shop is looking forward to moving into its new premises. The New Hope Shop and timber store will be moving from Tahi Rd into the new Transfer station on Ostend Rd as soon as works are completed within the next few weeks.

Messiah returns for Christchurch fund
Waiheke Marketplace
http://tinyurl.com/4y2utfy
A performance of Handel’s Messiah will raise funds for Christchurch earthquake relief. The Waiheke Island Choral Society will reprise its successful 2009 performance at St Peter’s Catholic Church in Little Oneroa on Saturday at 7pm.

Bells saved before full toll known (photo)
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/3emn596
Century-old bells have been saved from a collapsed tower of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Christchurch

A hundred years later
Upper Hutt Leader
http://tinyurl.com/3wrnu7o
St Joseph’s School and church are having their centenary celebrations at Queen’s Birthday Weekend, June 3 to 5.

Half century for a sporting couple (photo)
Upper Hutt Leader
http://tinyurl.com/3vbcszb
Concussion is credited with bringing two national sports players back together and leading to 50 years of marriage. Rugby player Russell Watt met hockey player Betty Thorner in the bar on the interisland ferry Maori, which travelled nightly between Lyttelton and Wellington.

Doing God's work (photo caption)
Timaru Herald — News — 13 Apr 2011 — 1
Http://tinyurl.com/43hdj2o
Top job: Timaru men Chris Clark and Brett Jenkins have a job with a spectacular view of the city. They have been treating the Craigie Avenue Catholic Basilica for moss, then water-blasting the sandstone structure before applying a sealer to the exterior. The work is being done by Grant Jenkins Contracting.

Seven honoured by Pilot City Trust (photos)
The Napier Mail
http://tinyurl.com/3h6xdpz
Seven worthy citizens who personify the true meaning of community spirit by effectively providing a service that benefits everyone will be honoured at an awards ceremony next week.....

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

Red Cross announces new grant for quake victims
Radio New Zealand Newswire — 14 Apr 2011 : 13:57:15
The Red Cross has announced it will create a one-off 500-dollar grant to help children displaced from schools in Christchurch following the earthquake in February.

De La Salle College, Auckland / Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth: FD teams knmock over La Salle Taranaki Daily News http://tinyurl.com/4xt6hus

Garin College, Nelson: A modern twist on Shakespeare The Nelson Mail http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/4872611/A-modern-twist-on-Shakespeare

Hato Paora College, Feilding: Students trained in Brazilian martial art (photo) Manawatu Standard http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/4871280/Students-trained-in-Brazilian-martial-art

John Paul College, Rotorua: Schools `free to decide' on facial piercings (photo) http://www.nzherald.co.nz/education/news/article.cfm?c_id=35&objectid=10719395

John Paul College, Rotorua: Student numbers to remain stable _ report The Daily Post (Rotorua)— A003 — 14 April 2011

Marian College, St Bede’s College, Christchurch: Parents give school sharing a pass mark http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/4895609/Parents-give-school-sharing-a-pass-mark

Roncalli College, Timaru: State schools left in the cold http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4874779/State-schools-left-in-the-cold

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: Enoka hopes advice will do the trick (photo) The Dominion Post http://tinyurl.com/3vox3lx

Sacred Heart Girls College, New Plymouth: Facial piercings now part of school uniform (video) http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/4885232/Facial-piercings-now-part-of-school-uniform/

St James' School, Palmerston North: Lunchtime drinks strictly old-school (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/4875642/Lunchtime-drinks-strictly-old-school/

St Joseph’s School, Nelson: Pupils clean graves in leadup to Anzac Day (photo) The Nelson Mail http://tinyurl.com/4264rcr

St Patrick’s School, Taupo: Students lunch in solidarity (photo caption) Taupo Times http://tinyurl.com/3g76l5o

St Peter's School, Cambridge: St Peter’s tennis winners Cambridge Edition http://tinyurl.com/44z68zo

St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch: 'Predatory' woman scams boys http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/4885179/Predatory-woman-scams-boys

St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch: Web predator's new victims http://www.nzherald.co.nz/connect/news/article.cfm?c_id=1501833&objectid=10719885
Verdon College, Invercargill: Heroes' welcome (photo captions) Southland Times Http://tinyurl.com/3lvkv8x

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

INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Ministry'
Matthew 21: 1-11 - a reading and reflection by Sr Stephanie Kitching.

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NEW ZEALAND CATHOLIC PODCASTS

http://station15.libsyn.com

** Station XV ** Episode 43 Thu, 14 April 2011 - Prosecution, Persecution and Publication
From the persecution of Christians around the world to the burning of the Koran in Florida to episcopal memories from the South Pacific, the Station 15 team travels the world in this month’s episode

** Ignition ** Talk 2, Part 3 Mon, 11 April 2011
In part three of his talk on evangelisation from the 2010 Hearts Aflame Summer School, Fr Michael Gielen tackles the question "Who are we fighting with?" in the battle to be good Christians. This is the third of six episodes that comprise Fr Gielen's two-hour lecture.

** Ignition ** Talk 2, Part 2 Mon, 4 April 2011
In this week's episode, Fr Michael Gielen continues his talk on evangelisation and the challenge to all Christians to strive to be saints. This is the second of six episodes serialising this two-hour address given at the 2010 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School. Come back next week for the third instalment.

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'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** Cohabitation… (a pastoral letter on the pastoral care of couples who are cohabitating)

** More politics…. (conservatism and Christianity)

** St Martin I (the life and death of St Martin I, Pope from 649-653AD)

** Beauty in the Liturgy (an interview with Msgr Guido Marini, the Papal Master of Ceremonies.)

** The Times They Are a-Changin (a Family First poll on abortion law reform)

** Paying your loans before entering the vineyard (student loans, obstacles to religious vocations)

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

Thoughts on post-tribal Catholicism
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/thoughts-post-tribal-catholicism

Tensions surrounding Catholic identity are very much in the air these days, and when they erupt they’re always a prescription for heartburn. People who regard themselves as authentically Catholic rarely enjoy being told they’re not, or that they’re only selectively so. Likewise, people who believe the faith they treasure is being misrepresented, or distorted, or eviscerated from within, typically get their Irish up. A key question facing the church, therefore, is how to manage those tensions constructively. I offered some thoughts on that subject on Wednesday, at a conference in Chicago sponsored by DePaul’s Center for World Catholicism and Intercultural Theology and titled “The Discourse of Catholicity” ...

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

EVENTS

Eucharistic Convention 2011
April 29 - May 1 2011, Westlake Boys High Auditorium, Takapuna, North Shore, Auckland
http://www.eucharisticconvention.com

Jesus 4 Real Camps, 2011, Palm Grove Christian Camp, Paraparaumu
http://www.jesus4real.org.nz
Years 11 - 13 : Wednesday 27 April - Sunday 1 May
("Early Bird" Registrations close 16 March, All Registrations close 13 April)

Years 9 - 10 : Wednesday 12 - Sunday 16 October
("Early Bird" Registrations close 31 August, All Registrations close 28 September)

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

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 ]

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

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' - No.363, April 10 - 23 2011

http://www.nzcatholic.org.nz

In the current issue: Marriage annulment fees rise 117% in NZ ... Signs of hope evident for faith, says bishop ... Special visa wanted for priests, religious ... Chch school is relocated for a third time .. NZ Catholic peace movement concerned about Vatican decision ... Icon of incredible strength and spirit (interview with Precious McKenzie MBE) ... A journey into an island's heart (Lilisiana, Solomon Islands) .. Ester Mass times for travellers ... Filipino's Auckland journey told ... Advertising feature: 2011 Eucharistic Convention

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FROM THE SECULAR MEDIA

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Bishop has stroke
Timaru Herald — News — 4 Apr 2011 — 3
The Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Bishop Barry Jones, has suffered a stroke. Bishop Jones is expected to remain in Christchurch Hospital this week. The church said he had suffered a minor stroke. The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Barbadoes St is included in Civil Defence's list of buildings to be partially demolished after damage in last September's quake and again more extensively on February 22.

Bishop Barry Jones in hospital for at least a week.
http://deaconswell.blogspot.com/2011/04/bishop-barry-jones-in-hospital-for-at.html

New Zealand churches upset over hot cross buns 'like Jesus' (photo)
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/australiaandthepacific/newzealand/8433958/New-Zealand-churches-upset-over-hot-cross-buns-like-Jesus.html
A pizza company has caused outrage in New Zealand with billboards advertising hot cross buns accompanied by the slogan: "For a limited time. A bit like Jesus."

Catholic Bishop Releases Autobiography (photo)
http://www.voxy.co.nz/lifestyle/catholic-bishop-releases-autobiography/5/87384
Wellington-born Bishop Robin Leamy, a priest of the Society of Mary, today launched his autobiography, Truly Blessed - My Story, covering his formative years in the capital, his many years of ministry as priest and bishop in Christchurch and the South Pacific, and his time serving in Auckland and as a member of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference.

Mayor welcomes new citizens (photo)
http://www.odt.co.nz/your-town/balclutha/155315/mayor-welcomes-new-citizens
After 45 years, Sister Noreen McGrath (66) is now a New Zealand citizen.

Radio New Zealand. Nights
19:15 Empty Churches - Father John O'Connor
http://podcast.radionz.co.nz/ngts/ngts-20110331-1915-Empty_Churches_-_Father_John_OConnor-048.mp3
Catholic priest Father John O'Connor is of a mind that religion is not about to become extinct in NZ, especially in light of how people responded to last month's Christchurch earthquake.

Survivor thinks twice about sites (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4851786/Survivor-thinks-twice-about-sites
While his experience of Christchurch's devastating 6.3-magnitude earthquake may have made him question more the places he works in, it has not put Neil Hooper, 48, off his career. Yesterday he was at Timaru's Sacred Heart Basilica, ensuring its pipe organ will be in tune for a memorial concert tonight honouring the lives of South Island Organ Company employees Scott Lucy and Neil Stocker, and well-known Christchurch optometrist and organist Paul Dunlop.


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

Some schools plan to return to their sites for term 3
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-earthquake/4856898/Some-schools-plan-to-return-to-their-sites
Four new Rs – reports, repairs, returns and rebuilds – dominate Christchurch’s 11 quake-displaced schools.

Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth: Golden Time for Van der Merwe
Taranaki Daily News
http://tinyurl.com/3ul3twc

Roncalli College, Timaru: Over half miss NCEA at 4 schools
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4862522/Over-half-miss-NCEA-at-4-schools

St John’s School, Mairangi Bay: School marks 50 years (photo)
North Shore Times
http://tinyurl.com/3croplz

St Mary's College, Ponsonby, Auckland: St Mary's gets Govt nod to boost roll to 1000 girls
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10718279

Stella Maris School, Silverdale: Founding principal bids farewell (photo)
Rodney Times
http://tinyurl.com/3k7grz7

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FROM THE CATHOLIC PRESS

Imagining (digital) parish life 10 years from now
Our Sunday Visitor (U.S.)
http://www.osv.com/tabid/7621/itemid/7771/Imagining-digital-parish-life-10-years-from-now.aspx

At St. Mary’s Catholic Center, the campus parish at Texas A&M University, one weekend last September, at the end of each Mass, the presiding priest asked all parishioners to whip out their cell phones and turn them on. He then asked them to text message some basic information to a number associated with the parish, including their name, phone number and email address. Within a couple of minutes, thousands of parishioners beamed their info to a registration database, establishing a digital connection between the parish and its parishioners (those without cell phones were still able to fill out traditional registration cards)...

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Giving Life'
John 11: 17-27 - a reading and reflection by Sr Stephanie Kitching.

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'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** An urgent message (an example in practice of a missionary Church: the shopping mall apostolate)

** Just a little bit cheeky if you ask me… (newborns in daycare)

** The Adventure of Orthodoxy (lessons of G.K. Chesterton's “Orthodoxy” for today)

** Burning Books (on burning the Koran, and the consequences)

** Amid the Spiritual Battle (an article on the prevalence of spiritual attacks)

** I’m pretty sure Lent doesn’t count in international airspace (crossing the international date line back to Ash Wednesday; and aeroplane evangelisation)


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


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EVENTS

Eucharistic Convention 2011
April 29 - May 1 2011, Westlake Boys High Auditorium, Takapuna, North Shore, Auckland
http://www.eucharisticconvention.com


Jesus 4 Real Camps, 2011, Palm Grove Christian Camp, Paraparaumu
http://www.jesus4real.org.nz
Years 11 - 13 : Wednesday 27 April - Sunday 1 May
("Early Bird" Registrations close 16 March, All Registrations close 13 April)

Years 9 - 10 : Wednesday 12 - Sunday 16 October
("Early Bird" Registrations close 31 August, All Registrations close 28 September)

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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 ]


Community Programme Manager / Senior Social Worker, Challenge 2000, Johnsonville, Wellington
http://www.challenge2000.org.nz
Details in 'Wel-com' April 2011 p.19 and from Bridget Roche, challenge2000@xtra.co.nz ; tel: (04) 4776827 Applications close 15 April 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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**********

FROM THE SECULAR PRESS

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Sign The Pledge - it's a wizard idea (photo)
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-earthquake/4829718/Sign-The-Pledge-its-a-wizard-idea
An unusual alliance of devout nuns and the Wizard have made a commitment to the rebuilding of Christchurch.

Fate of Catholic Cathedral still unknown
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1103/S00999/fate-of-catholic-cathedral-still-unknown.htm
The fate of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Barbadoes Street will not be known for at least two months.

Pirated DVD sales slammed
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/news/article.cfm?c_id=1501119&objectid=10716238
A film producer has slammed the actions of two mothers allegedly selling pirated DVDs outside a South Auckland school and a church.

‘Remarkable healing’ first under new rules
The Press
http://tinyurl.com/4qn4ff5
The Roman Catholic shrine at Lourdes has announced the ‘‘remarkable healing’’ of a French invalid, avoiding the traditional term ‘‘miracle’’ because its doctors increasingly shy away from calling an illness incurable.

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

Catholic teachers converge on Gore (photo)
The Southland Times
http://tinyurl.com/3av4el9
Triennial combined professional development day for Southland-Otago teachers in Catholic schools.

Francis Douglas Memorial College, New Plymouth: Retirement beckons for Peter Ingram (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/4840093/Retirement-beckons-for-Peter-Ingram

John Paul College, Rotorua: Rotorua schools in popularity contest http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/have-your-say/news/rotorua-schools-in-facebook-popularity-contest/3946644/

Roncalli College, Timaru: Roncalli tops ranking http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4835071/Roncalli-tops-ranking

Sacred Heart College and St Bernard’s College, Lower Hutt: Old paper traded for native trees (photos) The Hutt News http://tinyurl.com/4mrs5u8

Sacred Heart College, Lower Hutt: It’s cool at school (photo) The Hutt News http://tinyurl.com/4zxjf6u

Sacred Heart Girls' College, New Plymouth: Lauren adds jazz to NZ choir (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/4824574/Lauren-adds-jazz-to-NZ-choir

Sacred Heart Girls' College, New Plymouth: Young speaker on her way to Chunuk Bair (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/4819510/Young-speaker-on-her-way-to-Chunuk-Bair/Taranaki student on way to Gallipoli http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/taranaki-student-way-gallipoli-after-winning-national-bank-rsa-cyril-bassett-vc-/5/86455

Sancta Maria College, Auckland: Where are they now? Shana Llorando - Singer/Songwriter (2010 Winner) (photo) Press Release: AMP Scholarships 28-3-2011 13:53 http://auckland.scoop.co.nz/2011/03/where-are-they-now/

St Bede's College, Christchurch: The art of staying upbeat (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/national/4839990/The-art-of-staying-upbeat

St Bede's College, Christchurch: Young athlete fights odds in hunt for NZ title http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/sport/4824585/Young-athlete-fights-odds-in-hunt-for-NZ-title

St Joseph's School, Timaru: Vandals target school Timaru Herald — News — 2 Apr 2011 — 1 A Pleasant Point policeman is asking for help to find vandals who damaged furniture at St Joseph's Primary School overnight on Thursday. Senior constable Geoff Smith said two outdoor tables were damaged. The top of one table was set alight. Anyone with information is urged to contact him on (03) 614 7614.

St Joseph's School. Timaru: Hall for all occasions (full text) Timaru Herald, 30 Mar 2011 Edition 1, Page 2. Need fulfilled: Rebekah Wyatt performs the school prayer with the band at the opening ceremony of St Joseph's School's new hall. Plans for a new hall have been in the pipeline for the past five years. The school has had to raise $110,000 for the 200-square-metre hall, with the remainder of the cost coming from the Bishop of Christchurch. Pupils can now use the hall for activities such as assembly, band practice and gymnastics.

St Joseph’s School, Kaikoura: A run to help (photo) Kaikoura Star http://tinyurl.com/3t4gtxb

St Joseph’s School, Timaru: Trinity Guildhall award winner (photo caption - full text) High Country Community Herald http://tinyurl.com/3q4e3ax

St Patrick's College, Wellington: College boy targets juniors in bid to lift NCEA results (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/4815496/College-boy-targets-juniors-in-bid-to-lift-NCEA-results

St Patrick’s College, Silverstream: Traditional values important (photo) The Dominion Post http://tinyurl.com/3mf9sey

St Pauls College, Auckland: League player balances books and ball (photo) http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/auckland-city-harbour-news/4832740/League-player-balances-books-and-ball

St Peter's college, Palmerston North: School champs attract 120-plus swimmers http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/sport/4826059/School-champs-attract-120-plus-swimmers

St Peter's School, Cambridge: All adds up (photo caption) Cambridge Edition http://tinyurl.com/4d3tvko

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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

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INSPIRATIONAL TV

http://inspirationaltv.net

'Healing'
John 9: 1-12 - a reading and reflection with Very Rev. Frank Nelson and Rev. Dr Raymond Pelley at St Paul's Cathedral, Wellington.

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'BEING FRANK' - New Zealand Catholic blogs

http://www.beingfrank.co.nz

** I fell for it! (April fools' day spoof)

** “Tell us, what great deeds have you done to inspire the hearts of men?” (surely God likes Facebook)

** There be Dragons (a biopic about St Josemaria Escriva)

** Is Death Row on Death Row? (how should we approach the death penalty)

** What good can come out of Palmerston North? (on visiting the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in PN)

** 11th Commandment (thinking about the Ten Commandments)

** So much beauty in the vows (Part 3: obedience)


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

On Libya, Ivory Coast, theological dissent, and Opening Day
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/libya-ivory-coast-theological-dissent-and-opening-day

Stop me if you’ve heard this before: There’s a pariah state someplace known for brutalizing its people and destabilizing its region. Western leaders try to sell the conflict as a moral cause, so people naturally wonder what the Vatican makes of it. Signals at first seem ambivalent, but before long the Vatican becomes steadily more skeptical. While they never quite directly condemn the action, the take-away is that they’re not on board...

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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 ]


Community Programme Manager / Senior Social Worker, Challenge 2000, Johnsonville, Wellington
http://www.challenge2000.org.nz
Details in 'Wel-com' April 2011 p.19 and from Bridget Roche, challenge2000@xtra.co.nz ; tel: (04) 4776827 Applications close 15 April 2011

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

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

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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.

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In other news ...
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`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.

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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

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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

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'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

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

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

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.

15 February 2004
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'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


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'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

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EVENTS

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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."

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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

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EMPLOYMENT

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

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

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.

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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'

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

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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.

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In other news ...
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`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.

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News of the Schools
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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

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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

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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

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'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/

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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 ]

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.