22 April 2007 The Tablet A Monthly Newsletter to the Catholics of the Dunedin Diocese T h e T a b l e t (Incorporating The Diocesan News) 22 April 2007 Issue No. 120 Disaster in the Solomon Islands Fr Kevin Toomey OP was in his home town of Dunedin when the earthquake and subsequent tsunamis of April 2 struck, with devastating effect, the region of the Solomon Islands where he lived and worked for four years until a few months ago. Since the disaster Fr Kevin has been in regular contact with his friends there and has written the following article for Tablet, based on notes of a conversation with Bishop Bernard O Grady, Catholic Bishop of Gizo, in Gizo, on 11 April: Today, nine days after the first jolts, I spoke again with Bishop Bernard O Grady, the Bishop of Gizo. At 75, he is battling indifferent health, having just offered his resignation as bishop to Pope Benedict XVI. I sensed his grief for all that has happened, and his own loss and bewilderment in the face of this natural evil. Last evening was the first time since April 2 that there had been a torrential downpour. It sent some people scampering back to the ruins of their homes to sleep. But the majority of the people are still living away from the coast in the bush, scared of further predicted major earthquakes. In fact, the two very strong earthquakes felt on the night after the major 8.1 jolt had their epicentre much nearer to the Shortland Islands, in the North West of the Solomon Islands close to PNG. The damage there that night was severe, compounded by tsunamis. The places worst affected in the NW are the Shortland Islands (including Fauro and Mono Is), North West Choiseul, and the island of Wagina, on the southern tip of Choiseul. Its north coast suffered earthquake damage but was sheltered from the tsunamis, and so was saved some damage and loss of life. In Moli and Sasamunga, on Choiseul s south coast, the tsunamis struck hard. People have faced total loss of their home, and are still waiting up in the bush. No aid has come yet because they are far away from Gizo, the transport hub for the West Solomons. In Gizo itself, people are just beginning to trickle back from the bush to their wrecked homes. Continuing fear stopped them. Around Gizo Island, it was those villages facing direct south that took the full brunt of the tsunamis sweep: Malakerava at the southern edge of Gizo township (including the prison and the hospital), Titiana (a Sister Dora OP and three Dominican Brothers on the wharf at Loga. That wharf no longer exists, nor do the two villages of Nusubaruu and Fishing Village, visible in the background. The tsunami destroyed them all. Photo provided by Fr Toomey Gilbertese village), and New Mundra. Some people from these villages are still missing. As well, Nusabaruku (a Gilbertese village of about 100 people) and Fishing Village (where Malaitan people live), both in Gizo harbour, were wiped out, because they are built out over the sea. There, 11 people have died: two adults and nine children. This is a feature of most islands: the most vulnerable, children, form a large proportion of those who died. The Bishop told a touching story. One of his friends and parishioners, Mrs Tokaraoi Columba Temmwea, quickly came and gathered up as many of the children in Nusabaruku Village as she could find, when the first earthquake and its associated tidal wave, five minutes after, hit the village. Then in a panic, she realized that she had left her eight-year-old grandchild in their home built out over the sea, and went back to rescue her. Both she and the child were swept out to sea and drowned by the second major tsunami that struck a short time later. They were found clasped in each other s arms. One clear result of the disaster is the distressing effect of logging, where companies have come and stripped land near the sea of their natural forests. The people do not now have the timber they would otherwise use to rebuild their homes, and are forced to rely on very unsatisfactory makeshift structures. They will need chainsaws to seek out any millable timber that may remain inland, to rebuild their homes. This is the next and most difficult aftermath phase. In the last few days there have been more major earthquakes in the NW, around the Shortland Islands, reinforcing the first round damage of quakes/tsunamis. The Dominican Sisters rural training centre, St Anne s at Nila, the only such educational facility in the NW, has been destroyed. The parish house, a few yards away, is falling down, but being used by the young Filipino parish priest, Jerome Pelagio and a local deacon. Further around the islands at Gaomai, a large, recently opened church is completely useless. Tsunamis caused flooding and mud which remain on much low-lying ground. Human nature is as human nature always will be: some people are receiving more than their share of help than others, e.g., some people are using tarpaulins as wind breaks as well as temporary shelters, while others nearby lack tarpaulins to make a temporary home. One local man, Cletus Peters, who uses his camera in his work as the director of a United Nations non-government institute for fishing and pearl research, had all his camera equipment stolen from beside him while he helped in the distribution of aid. Fortunately Continued page 2
The Tablet 22 April 2007 Disaster in Solomons Continued people are looking to help the elderly. Many are afraid that the elderly who are not easily able to move and ask for what they need, will miss out on help. They, with the children, are the poorest of the poor. Bishop Bernard talks of a young woman being sent from Noro to Gizo, a boat ride of some two hours, to have her arm X-rayed before being set in plaster. But after a week she was sent back home, without any X-ray, there being no working X-ray facilities. This is typical of some of the frustrations that people are feeling and being subjected to, because of lack of appropriate equipment or supplies. All the aid agencies have been a tremendous and immediate help. Bishop Bernard had found that Caritas Australia and its associated agencies, Catholic Relief Services (USA) and Caritas NZ had helped him especially. Adam Elliott, the Caritas Australia man based in Honiara, had organized tarpaulins and water containers immediately to be distributed to all who needed it in Gizo. Now the agencies are facing the difficulties of getting aid to outer islands, and hiring boats for that purpose. However, Bishop Bernard was wild that one aid agency had taken this opportunity to place free condom vending machines in the destroyed Gizo market place, something never before done. He felt that this was both untimely and unnecessary, and had requested that they be removed. The whole of the population of Taro Bay, the capital of Choiseul Province on a small island at the north tip of Choiseul Is, had been evacuated to higher ground on the mainland. The town itself had been swamped in a thick layer of mud. The hospital, recently renovated by RAMSI and other overseas donors, is unusable. It is the only major health facility for the people of Choiseul province, replicating exactly what happened in Gizo for the Western Province. Bishop Bernard asked me to thank the people who had contributed money and supplies. He was aware of many gifts and overwhelmed by people s generosity. He knows that money will never be able to put back what has been lost, but that the people will try. They are naturally resilient and resourceful, and full of good humour. Instruction Evenings for Non- Catholics(RCIA) At the beginning of May a series of instruction evenings for non-catholics interested in finding out more about the Catholic faith will commence at Kaikorai. For further information please phone Kath Kenrick 476 6522 or Daphne Hannagan 453 6595. Any KOREAN non-catholics who would like to find out more about the Catholic faith please phone Francesca Shin 470 1877. Caritas seeking financial support to assist those affected by tsunami in Solomon Islands Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, the Catholic agency for justice, peace and development, is seeking financial donations to assist those affected by the large earthquake and tsunami in Western Province of the Solomon Islands. Director of Caritas, Michael Smith reported: The scale of the destruction of this disaster is growing by the day. It is estimated that on the Island of Gizo, over 900 houses have been destroyed, health facilities severely damaged and 5,000 people affected. We are working with our Caritas partners, including Caritas Australia and other Church agencies in the Solomon Islands to respond to the needs of those affected. Various NGO s are involved in relief work, with different NGO s and governments taking on different roles. At this stage, the Caritas efforts are likely to be aimed at the reconstruction of water tanks, Church health and education infrastructure and trauma counselling. Michael Smith noted that It is hoped that Caritas supporters, Catholic and non- Catholic, will consider making a donation to assist with the immediate needs of the people as well as to help rebuild their lives. Requests are going out to Catholic parishes this Easter and to the media for support. Donations will be used to fund relief and rehabilitation work and assistance is provided to people based on need regardless of their religious affiliation. Donations can be made in the following ways: * Call 0900 4 11 11 for an automatic $20 donation charge to your phone bill * Phone: 0800 22 10 22 to make credit card donations or * Post donations to: Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, PO Box 12-193, Thorndon, Wellington 6144, New Zealand Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand is a member of the Caritas Internationalis Confederation comprising 162 aid and development agencies working in over 200 countries and territories.
22 April 2007 Introduction to the Gospel of Luke Presented by Father Damian Wynn-Williams Recently Father Damian Wynn-Williams presented Introduction to the Gospel of Luke. Seven workshops were held between 6 and 20 March for parishioners and teachers. Two hundred and eighty people attended these sessions to deepen our understanding of Luke s account of Jesus life, death and resurrection, and to break open the Scriptures and connect them with our daily lives. Comments from people who attended expressed much appreciation of the knowledge Father Damian shared. He gave a wonderful insight into Luke with valuable comparisons with other Gospels, and linked them to the context of their times. Father Damian literally made the Gospel of Luke come alive. The workshop was well presented with great use of PowerPoint. Father Damian covered a vast amount in a short time. It would have been good to have had a longer, more interactive session with more time for discussion and questions. One participant said the workshop was a wonderful door opened into Luke, showing me how to study, reflect and, most important, look beyond the obvious. Another said, The application of the gospel principles to our lives was very good. Others would have liked more opportunity to explore the challenge of grounding the content into our ordinary experience. A question posed by a participant was, If Luke were writing to our communities today what would he be saying? Many people would like opportunities to learn more on the Gospels, their meaning and interpretation. Some would appreciate a deeper study of the historical settings at the time of writing. Others would like to study other pieces of Scripture, both Old and New Testament. Some would like to learn about the cycles of Readings and how to prepare and proclaim the Word in Liturgy. Remaining Passionate in Challenging Times Lecture by Dr Robert Wicks Holy Cross Centre, Mosgiel, Wednesday 23 May at 7.30 pm Some people will have heard Dr Robert Wicks when he visited the Dunedin diocese twelve years ago. Others will have read some of his books. In Touching the Holy Robert talks about having the courage to simply be ourselves. He says, I remember visiting someone who was so real, undefensive, accepting, and self-aware that during the visit I felt no stress or anxiety at all. I could be myself; it was enough. I even had a strange sensation after I left him that I had not aged while in his presence! (R. Wicks, Touching the Holy, Ordinariness, Self-esteem and Friendship, Ave Maria Press, Indiana, 1992.) In May Robert will offer insights into how persons can extend their warmth to others without losing their own inner fire in the process. He will emphasise some of the work he has published recently. This lecture is open to all parishioners and to the general public. Cost: $5. To register contact Teresa Hanratty by Friday 18 May. Email: thanratty@xtra.co.nz or phone 03) 477 1815. Teresa Hanratty rsm Co-ordinator of Education for Pastoral Ministry By placing the money for your funeral costs in a Funeral Savings Plan you can spare your families a great deal of stress at an emotional time. P O Box 5555 Catholic Development Fund Dunedin The CDF Funeral Savings Plan offers the people of the Dunedin diocese a unique opportunity to save for their funeral in a special account which not only provides a fair return on their money but also assists the life and mission of the Church in their own diocese. Phone 477 4024 An Invitation to leave a legacy of support to our priests The Tablet Fr Damian Wynn-Williams leads a workshop on the Gospel of Luke. All people, including priests, have greater financial needs during illness, and through the years of their old age and retirement. In the Dunedin diocese, the Clergy Support Fund (CSF) helps to cover priests medical and other expenses incurred in these circumstances, and also the costs of events such as retreats and assemblies, which are essential for every priest s on-going formation. The CSF invites your generous assistance By arranging a bequest to the Clergy Support Fund in your will, you can help to ensure that our priests will never lack the care and comfort that everyone hopes to find in times of special need. The legal phrasing for a bequest to the CSF is: I bequeath to the treasurer for the time being of the Dunedin Diocese Clergy Support Fund the sum of $... to be applied by the treasurer for the general purposes of the said Fund. Any legacies left to the Dunedin Diocese Clergy Support Fund are solely for the bishop and priests of the Diocese of Dunedin. For further information about the Clergy Support Fund and how you can best assist its purpose, please contact: Father Maurice White, Flat 3, 16 Clyde Street, Winton.
The Tablet 22 April 2007 World Youth Day 2008 On Sunday, March 25 the World Youth Day DVD was shown at all Masses throughout the diocese. The showing of the DVD left a buzz of anticipation and enthusiasm in many of the parishes. Many were heard to comment that they wished such an opportunity was available to them when they were younger. Some asked to take the DVD home so they could watch it again or show it to younger family members. (Thank you to parishes for arranging for the DVD to be shown at Masses. I appreciate it involves a lot of work to set everything up.) With World Youth Day to be celebrated so near to us in 2008 (in Sydney) we are provided with a unique opportunity for renewal as the Church in New Zealand. For this reason World Youth Day 2008 needs to be of concern for the whole diocese. It is hoped that following the screening of the DVD those who are no longer in the 16-35 age bracket may encourage younger family members to attend. Some may also be in a position to provide some support for children or grandchildren hoping to attend. World Youth Day Cross In the DVD we saw the World Youth Day Cross and Icon of Our Lady being entrusted to the Young People of the World by Pope John Paul II. The cross is entrusted to young people to be taken with them to all places in the world as a sign of God s love for humanity and the call to be reconciled to God. The Cross and Icon will be in our diocese from June 10-13. We are well along the way to planning a significant itinerary for the journey of the Cross and Icon. There will be more on this closer to the time. Palm Sunday Apart from the large World Youth Day gatherings like the one planned to take place in Sydney Palm Sunday is set aside each year as World Youth Day. I am aware that many parishes in the diocese made a special effort to involve young people in their Palm Sunday Mass, reading and dramatising the Passion, being involved with music or being involved with other ministries. In most cases young people are very willing to be involved in the Sunday Mass, they often need simply to be asked. Website The New Zealand Website is www. worldyouthday.org.nz. The international website is www.wyd2008.org. Groups can now register their interest to attend WYD on the international website, giving an estimate of what numbers will be attending. All Otago and Southland inquiries to rkkerr-bell@xtra.co.nz. - Fr Gerard Aynsley Resurrection gives hope, says Benedict XVI in his Easter message The resurrection of Christ gives hope to a world afflicted by natural disasters, disease and violence, said Benedict XVI in his Easter message. After celebrating Easter Mass and before imparting the blessing urbi et orbi (to the city of Rome and the world), the Pope read a message in which he said that natural calamities and human tragedies that cause innumerable victims and enormous material destruction are not lacking. Through the wounds of the Risen Christ we can see the evils which afflict humanity with the eyes of hope, he said from the balcony of St Peter s Basilica to the crowds gathered in the square below on a sunny morning. Hundreds of millions more people, in 67 countries, followed the event on radio or television. Benedict XVI said in his message that his thoughts go to recent events in Madagascar, in the Solomon Islands, in Latin America and in other regions of the world. I am thinking of the scourge of hunger, of incurable diseases, of terrorism and kidnapping of people, of the thousand faces of violence which some people attempt to justify in the name of religion, of contempt for life, of the violation of human rights and the exploitation of persons, he said. In particular, the Pope mentioned the several regions in Africa undergoing a catastrophic humanitarian situation, including Darfur and surrounding nations. He also mentioned the scourge of violence in Kinshasa in Congo, and in Somalia and Zimbabwe, and said that peace is sorely needed in many places in the world, including East Timor, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. The Pope continued: In the Middle East, besides some signs of hope in the dialogue between Israel and the Palestinian authority, nothing positive comes from Iraq, torn apart by continual slaughter as the civil population flees. In Lebanon the paralysis of the country s political institutions threatens the role that the country is called to play in the Middle East and puts its future seriously in jeopardy. Benedict XVI then added: I cannot forget the difficulties faced daily by the Christian communities and the exodus of Christians from that blessed land which is the cradle of our faith. I affectionately renew to these populations the expression of my spiritual closeness. He continued: By his rising the Lord has not taken away suffering and evil from the world, but has vanquished them at their roots by the superabundance of his grace. He has countered the arrogance of evil with the supremacy of his love. After reading his message, Pope Benedict wished the world a happy Easter in 62 languages and imparted his blessing urbi et orbi. In English, he said: May the grace and joy of the Risen Christ be with you all. - Zenit CATHOLIC CENTRE SHOP Moran Building, 8 Octagon, Dunedin 9016 Telephone/Fax (03) 477-6342 Email: cathshopdn@xtra.co.nz Basil Hume: The Monk Cardinal by Anthony Howard A splendid biography, an invaluable resource and an inspirational read The Times Basil Hume s 23 year reign as Archbishop of Westminster brought about a state of harmony within the Catholic Church. A deeply holy man, Hume knew the path he wanted to follow from an early age. It was not an easy journey but nothing could stop his passion and devotion to the things he believed in. Granted unique access to Cardinal Hume s private papers and the people who knew him best, Anthony Howard s critically acclaimed biography is the only official story of this truly inspirational man. P/B (Illustrated) $28.90 Courier $2.80 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9am-5.15pm SATURDAYS 10am -12.30pm M A I L O R D E R S W E L C O M E
22 April 2007 Oamaru News Ecology, Justice & Religion Oamaru played host to Fr Sean McDonagh, a Columban Missionary Priest and theologian on 29 February at St Kevin s College Auditorium. Over a hundred people of mixed ages were present to hear him talk about what is happening to our world with climate change taking place. He challenged that it is our responsibility as Christian people to look after God s creation. It was a thoughtprovoking evening. Rite II Reconciliation Frs Wayne Healey, Merv McGettigan, John Harrison, Aidan Cunningham and Msgr Vince Walker visited the Oamaru parish in mid-march. This was to enable all to take part in Reconciliaton in preparation for Easter. St Joseph s was visited first, giving all students from years 4-8 the opportunity to receive this sacrament. Then on Tuesday it was the students of St Kevin s College who were visited by the priests. At night Rite II was celebrated for parishioners and about 130 availed themselves of this opportunity. This is a memorable occasion and it is perhaps a pity that more don t take this chance to prepare fully for Easter. Parish Picnic This was held early in March at Camp Iona and was arranged by the social activities group. Students from St Kevin s joined parishioners in a BBQ lunch followed by other activities. St Joseph s Day St Joseph s Day was celebrated in fine style with a special school Mass at 11.30am. Fr Wayne highlighted the special values of St Joseph which we are called to aspire to. Indeed, it was a case of This is your life, St Joseph. Afterwards, there was a sausage sizzle and it was heartening to see the school family sharing spiritual and social fellowship. Catholic Women s League Oamaru CWL was the very able host for the Diocesan Conference of which a separate report appears. It was very ably organised and the local branch members are to be congratulated. Leadership Morning Fr Wayne Healey, Rosemary Burke and Jocelyn Marsh led the year 8 students in a leadership study. This proved to be an amazing experience with the students reacting extremely positively. They were fully focused on what leadership meant and devised a Treaty with goals for them to work towards. This will be revisited in the new term to determine the outcome. Faith In The Light Our group met on Sunday 18 March in the Dean O Reilly Lounge. Sister Madeleine took us through a Lenten meditation about Mary meeting Jesus carrying his cross to Calvary. Fr Wayne popped in to say hello, much to the delight of our members. We sang songs and listened to Irish music which was followed by afternoon tea. - Dea McNulty The Tablet Fr Colin Schmelz cuts his birthday cake under the scrutiny of Des Dougherty, parish council chairman who, on behalf of the parishioners and friends who gathered for the occasion, wished Fr Colin well. News from Lawrence Father Colin 80 Not Out This was the wording on a poster hanging in St Patrick s Parish Centre, Lawrence, where parishioners gathered with Fr Tony Harrison on February 23 to celebrate Fr Colin Schmelz 80th birthday. Fr Colin has been Priest in Residence for the past eight years. Our parish is truly grateful that Fr Colin chose to come to Lawrence to continue his priestly duties for us when it would have been much easier to retire to a less active life. To have Sunday Mass and Masses during the week available to our parishioners is a luxury St Patrick s is very thankful for. Fr Colin has been a part of many activities and events in the Lawrence/Tuapeka area. He has represented the parish well at ecumenical events and relates very well with Ministers from the other Churches. A number of parishioners have joined each year to help Fr Colin celebrate his birthday with a pot-luck tea. These nights have always been great fun, with many a laugh. We thank God for allowing Fr Colin to continue administering the sacraments to us and would like to think he will continue for some time, but we do realize that at 80 years Father has earned his retirement in more ways than one, and we hope he can enjoy many more years to experience a life of leisure. God bless you Father Colin, and thank you. St Patrick s Day After 6pm Mass was concelebrated by Frs Tony Harrison and Colin Schmelz, parishioners adjourned to the Parish Centre for a pot-luck tea. This year we were joined by visitors from Christchurch, Timaru, Dunedin, Gore and Wellington parishes 11 in total, boosting our numbers to make the night very enjoyable. After a delicious meal which included refreshments, a sing-along was held with all the old favorite Irish songs. Father Tony led us in the singing of Kevin Barry well done, Father. Andrew Blackmore told some Irish jokes which brought forth some great bursts of laughter. No Irish evening is complete without those. Good one, Andrew! Once again St Patrick s Day was celebrated as it should be, and we all look forward to the 17th of March 2008. - Karen Roughan Priest killed in Philippines A young Indonesian priest had just vested for Mass when he was shot and killed on April 1 in the north Philippines. He died immediately. Society of the Divine Word Father Fransiskus Madhu, 31, was killed apparently without motive. According to a note from Father Antonio Pernia, superior-general of the Society of the Divine Word, It seems the aggressor had personal problems and was looked for by the police. The missionary agency MISNA reported that Father Pernia explained that four men approached Father Madhu, one of whom, armed with an M16 pistol, fired at him. The Province of Ende has been informed, as has the family of Father Fransiskus, the superior-general s note said. Let us pray for Father Fransiskus Madhu that the Lord may receive him into his Kingdom. - Zenit
The Tablet 22 April 2007 St Mary s goes green on St Patrick s Day St Patrick s Day was celebrated in high spirits at St Mary s School, Kaikorai. On Friday 16 March the school was full of tricky leprechauns in all shades of green. One of them even managed to turn the water green in the bathrooms. We held three competitions. We had one for the best leprechaun, which was strongly contested. There was also limerick writing by families, which produced some very strange and amusing anecdotes about our community members. We had fun stretching the truth about ourselves and others to make it fit into the rhyming scheme. Children took part in a green lunch competition which tied into our Health Promoting School programme and produced some amazing results. Most green lunches were achieved through careful choice of foods and packaging but I am not sure where you buy lime green bread or green cake. The day finished with assembly led by the year 1 and 2 children in Room 3, where they presented a liturgy on St Patrick and the shamrock, and where we all tried to do the Irish jig. Our fun day raised $48 for our Caritas Appeal fund. On Monday April 2 we celebrated Solidarity Day with our traditional Soup and Rice meal. Children went without the usual morning tea and lunches packed with sandwiches, fruit, chippies and biscuits and enjoyed the simple fare of a cup of soup and rice. At morning liturgy that day we prayed for the needs of all the children around the world, especially those who do not have the plenty many of us enjoy. - Carmel Chamberlain, Principal Room 3 leprechauns : Elsie and Caitlin with Moli (obscured). Some of the Room 3 leprechauns with their teacher, Steven Evans. Please phone us on 0800-500-730 for your Free Consultation The Lab - helping you eat, sleep, play and smile Dunedin 1st Floor Queens Building, 109 Princes Street Invercargill Cnr Herbert & Windsor Streets Phone 03 477 1422 Email info@the-lab.co.nz FUNERAL SERVICES Professional Service with Integrity, Understanding and Support We offer: comfortable and tranquil chapel, with adjacent reception lounge liaison with Funeral Directors throughout New Zealand and overseas pre-payment of funerals grief recovery support community education friendly staff to discuss all options available free information brochures call in or phone us at F 407 Hillside Road, Dunedin D ANZ (03) 455-2128 Freephone 0800 858 555 A member of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand
22 April 2007 The Tablet From Caritas Companions newsletter: We believe in Christ s victory over violence Bishop Owen Dolan tells the story of speaking to people in the Latin American country of El Salvador. They were telling me of the violence they faced every day from the army and police because of the civil war in the country at that time, which caused me to say, seeking to be sympathetic: What a hopeless situation. They responded quite strongly, telling me their story was the same as the name of their country El Salvador means The Saviour, and their city is San Salvador Holy Saviour. They told me: Don t think that we are without hope. The Salvador suffered and died just as we are now, but he rose again. So we are not without hope, because we believe in Christ s victory over violence. They told me: Our situation is not hopeless, and we live in hope. And so it was from these people who had suffered so much that I learned a valuable lesson about hope. An Easter Church We Christians have not thoroughly assimilated ourselves to Jesus Christ. We divorce faith from life (we content ourselves with preaching the faith or celebrating it liturgically, but we do not put love and justice into practice). An Easter church ought to be a church of conversion, a fundamental turning back to Christ whose mirror we should be. Archbishop Oscar Romero O NEILL DEVEREUX LAWYERS Partners: Anthony B. Devereux Joseph G. O Neill Michael M. O Neill Paul S. O Neill Client Parking Available 248 HIGH STREET P.O. BOX 909 DUNEDIN Telephone 477-6801 The group of CWL office-bearers photographed after the ceremony of dedication. Diocesan Conference of the Catholic Women s League The annual Diocesan Conference of the League took place in Oamaru from March 23-25 and was hosted by the women of the Oamaru Branch. Fifty-one women from Oamaru to Invercargill attended. The Conference opened with Mass of the Holy Spirit in the Basilica on Friday evening and Gloria Mansfield welcomed those who attended on behalf of the parish. The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Colin, Father Martin Flannery (Diocesan Chaplain to the League) and Father Wayne Healey, our parish priest. The Bishop set the scene for the conference with his homily on the readings from the Acts of the Apostles and from St John. God puts his trust in us to bring his light into the world. If we are open to the Spirit we can do anything. Opportunities to do God s work are there but we must be willing to embrace these opportunities and not put obstacles in the way. People are hungry for God and we must be there for them. We should pray that we may be people seen to have the Spirit working in us and as such we can do wonders and marvels! After Mass, the official welcome to the Bishop, Fr Flannery, Jacqui Dean (MP for Otago), Tui Pasco (National President of the League), and representatives from women s groups of local Churches took place. Leanne Brookes entertained with a bracket of songs. Supper in the Lounge followed. Mass was celebrated in the Lounge on Saturday morning at 7.30am by the Bishop and Fr Flannery. The business part of the Conference was held at the Kingsgate Brydone Hotel. Some of the important happenings were: * The reflection on the gifts of Gold, Frankicense and Myrrh given by Lolah McDiarmid. These gifts represented the gifts we have to give as we prepare for Easter. * The overview of the theme that all members of the League throughout New Zealand are studying this year: Church - Culture - Identity. This overview was given by Kay Blackburn. * PowerPoint presentation given by Sister Jill McLoughlin, RSJ. To be Catholic, community, Church, and to practise justice, service and to listen to God were the main themes. * Highlights of all branches throughout the Diocese for 2006. * These included tributes to members who had died during the year, special celebrations and anniversaries, talks given at meetings, etc. * Reports from various groups, e.g. social concerns, missions, etc. It is to be noted that the League gave almost a quarter of a million dollars to the Missions last year. i.e. $85 per member! * Sister Teresa Hanratty explained the course of study Walking New Paths. * The competition for the McAleese trophy, competed for between Otago and Southland, was won by Otago this year. Members attended the parish Mass at St Kevin s on Saturday evening and a candle ceremony for deceased members was held. The names of all who died during the year were read. The Conference collection is to be donated to fund World Youth Day. During the conference, the Parish Holy Shop was in attendance so ladies had the opportunity to buy cards, rosaries, statues etc. The Conference for 2008 will be run by one of the Dunedin Branches from March 28-30. The Conference ended at noon on Sunday after the dedication of officers for 2007. This Conference confirmed that the League in the Diocese is alive and well and the members are, as always, faithful to their motto: Faith & Service. - Sister Madeleine
The Tablet 22 April 2007 Relay for Life Mercy Hospital was buzzing with activity for the six weeks leading up to the Relay for Life which was held at the end of February. Staff from all areas in the hospital worked together on various projects and while the main goal was fundraising for Cancer Research, there was also an emphasis on having fun. Our team commenced the 24-hour relay on Saturday 24 February with S. M. Chanel carrying the baton! With fundraising completed and a dollar for dollar subsidy from Charitable Outreach Funds Mary Grant and Clayton Hopewell, nurses at Mercy Hospital, recently performed their final co-ordination role by handing over a cheque for $11,800. The Cancer Society expressed their appreciation and noted that it was the highest Corporate Contribution this year. Dr Janice McDrury Mission Co-ordinator Mercy Hospital. S.M. Chanel and Mercy Hospital staff ready to start the Relay for Life. Mary Grant and Clayton Hopewell from Mercy Hospital present a cheque to Wendy Houliston (CEO, Otago & Southland Division of the Cancer Society). Pope highlights doubt of Thomas The disbelief of Thomas was a fortunate event that led to the discovery of the true face of God, said Benedict XVI during his Easter message. Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter s Basilica the Holy Father reminded the faithful that after the Resurrection, Thomas remained doubtful and perplexed. When Jesus came for a second time, he said to him: Put your finger here and see my hands; and put out your hand and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing! The apostle s response is a moving profession of faith: My Lord and my God! We too renew that profession of faith of Thomas. The Pope said: I have chosen these words for my Easter greetings this year, because humanity today expects from Christians a renewed witness to the resurrection of Christ; it needs to encounter him and to know him as true God and true man. We may all be tempted by the disbelief of Thomas. Suffering, evil, injustice, death, especially when it strikes the innocent such as children who are victims of war and terrorism, of sickness and hunger, does not all of this put our faith to the test? The Holy Father continued: Paradoxically the disbelief of Thomas is most valuable to us in these cases because it helps to purify all false concepts of God and leads us to discover his true face: the face of a God who, in Christ, has taken upon himself the wounds of injured humanity. In fact, by his rising the Lord has not taken away suffering and evil from the world but has vanquished them at their roots by the superabundance of his grace. He has countered the arrogance of evil with the supremacy of his love. He has left us the love that does not fear death, as the way to peace and joy. The Pope added: United to him and ready to offer our lives for our brothers, let us become apostles of peace, messengers of a joy that does not fear pain the joy of the Resurrection. - Zenit For Sale Two properties on bus route, close to St Bernadette s parish church and school. Two bedroom home - $180,000 (neg) Three bedroom home with carport and OSP - $240,000 (neg) Both homes have street frontage and all day sun. Phone 03 455 2371 Bitz & Bogz Plumbing Gary McIndoe CRAFTSMAN PLUMBER REGISTERED DRAINLAYER FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING BITS & BOBS Call 0800 Bitz n Bogz (0800 248 962) Office: 03 476 7046 Email: bitznbogz@xtra.co.nz P O Box 1314, Dunedin 9054 NEW WORK RENOVATIONS MAINTENANCE REPAIRS HOT WATER CYLINDERS
22 April 2007 Potatoes aweigh! The members of the St Francis Passionist Family Group of Sacred Heart parish, Waikiwi, gathered recently to find out who had grown the heaviest potato crop in their annual potato competition. Fourteen group members were given two bags each plus two seed potatoes to put into their own seed mixture. It creates a lot of interest every year when those taking part bring their bags along for the official weigh-in. The potatoes are emptied out onto a table and then put on the scales for all to see. This year s placings were: 1st Pauline and Bill Schuck, 9lb 12oz (4.42kg); 2nd equal Peter Burns and Sonny Broad, 7lb (3.175kg); 4th Tony Doorman, 6lb 5oz (2.86kg). - John (Sonny) Broad The day of the great weigh-in. The Tablet Ministry of Intercession Prayer Intentions April That the celebration of Easter strengthens us in hope to work for a world renewed in the risen Christ. (Special Prayer) We pray for the people of the Solomon Islands affected by the recent tsunami and that we assist our Pacific brothers and sisters in their needs. May As an Easter people, we pray that we may radiate Christ s light and peace to those around us. The winners, Pauline and Bill Schuck, proudly display a sample of their winning effort. Brothers to reorganise into one Oceania Province This article by Amy Kiley was published in the April 8 issue of NZ Catholic, and is reproduced here by kind permission of the editor. The Christian Brothers in the Pacific will establish the Province of Oceania by October 1. It will incorporate former state administrations in Australia and structures in New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. New Zealand province leader Br Joe Lauren, CFC, said they were restructuring to better use their resources for ministry. Br Joe will be part of the new province s leadership team. It s saying this is what we ve got. These are our resources. This is what we want to do. How can we best restructure so we can do this? He said the new structure would give more support to ministries and religious life, though he called the congregation s shrinking numbers a background factor in the decision. As many of the group s ministries are in Australia, the new province headquarters will be in Brisbane. The leader will be Br Vincent Duggan, CFC, who has been the leader of the Papua New Guinea operation. In New Zealand, the brothers own St Kevin s College, Oamaru, and St Thomas of Canterbury College, Christchurch. Diocesan schools that follow the charism of the congregation s founder Edmund Rice include Liston College and St Peter s College in Auckland. Br Lauren said the reorganisation will not affect those schools day-to-day operations. However, a new development arm means, There will be opportunities for staff formation in the charism of Edmund Rice that we have not been able to do in New Zealand. As the Christian Brothers do not fund other ministries in New Zealand, Br Lauren said the impact of the change will not be great here. However, the shift might give a bit more funding for groups like the volunteer-run Edmund Rice camps and Edmund Rice justice groups. The Christian Brothers began in Ireland in 1802 and came to New Zealand in 1876.
The Tablet 22 April 2007 Fr Chris Skinner SM gives musical retreat in Queenstown and Arrowtown It was my dream to have Father Chris come to our parish. Having first met him at the Horizons Weekend in Dunedin in the late 1980 s, I have kept up with his music. Fr Chris preached and sang at our weekend Masses on the weekend of March 17-18. The song All are Welcome here, yet to be recorded, was superbly sung, despite saying that his voice was not 100%! It was a very appropriate song following the Prodigal Son Gospel. Approximately 100 people attended the concert held in St Joseph s Church on the Sunday evening. Each of his own songs was written in honour of someone who had inspired him in some way. Over the next two days, Fr Chris helped us to celebrate our St Joseph s Parish Feast Day and the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick. As an opportunity for prayer and reflection he led two sessions in Arrowtown in which his songs were listened to and reflected upon in the light of our own experiences. His time with us officially concluded with a sing-a-long with our school children. Everyone enjoyed and appreciated this wonderful experience. Fr Martin Flannery Light of the World Radio Sundays, 4-5pm, on 1575kHz, HillsAM April 15 - Delon talks to Sandra about the Sisters of Life and about discernment of a call to religious life. 22 - Atheism is the topic of Dr Chris Burgwald s interview with Carl Olson. Fr Pablo Straub CssR concludes his EWTN series To Tell You the Truth. 29 - Vince Smith tells his vocation story and talks about his studies in the Parramatta seminary, and Carl Olsen and Chris Burgwald continue their conversation. May 6 - An item on St Athanasius and the Arian heresy from Spirit Radio; and part 10 of Jesuit Fr Ray Goratsky s An Ignatian Retreat. 13 - Fr John Harrison talks to Delon about the work of a chaplain in Antarctica. Mike Aquilina introduces a mini-series on the Mass of the earliest Christians. 27 - Kris and Bruce Robertson talk to Fr Thomas Williams LC about How to Become the Christian You Want To Be, and more from Mike Aquilina about the Mass of the earliest Christians Fr Chris Skinner singing Awesome God while the children of St Joseph s School do the hand actions. Young Vinnies - Students of St John s School, Ranfurly, were commissioned as young Vinnies on Wednesday 4 April during Mass. They were most fortunate to have present Barbara Walsh, Diocesan co-ordinator for Vinnies. The children were photographed in the church with Fr Vaughan Leslie, Claire McCormack (teacher, far left) and, second from left, Barbara Walsh. CATHOLIC DEVELOPMENT FUND Term Investments Amount 3 Months 6 Months 9 Months 12 Months $1,000 - $4,999 3.00% 3.20% 3.25% 3.50% $5,000 - $9,999 4.10% 4.85% 4.90% 5.20% $10,000 - $19,999 5.40% 6.00% 6.00% 6.05% $20,000 - $49,999 5.40% 6.00% 6.00% 6.05% $50,000+ Rates available on application. On Call Accounts Interest is credited annually and is calculated on a daily basis. $1 - $10,000 2.50% $10,001-49,999 3.00% NO FEES APPLY $50,000+ 3.50% Other terms and rates available. Enquiries: Phone 0800 321 233 10
22 April 2007 The Tablet St Paul s High School Class of 67. Also attending the reunion but absent from the photo were Fergus More and Ray Baker. The return of St Paul s High School Class of 67 In the first week of February 1967 a large group of innocent male adolescents were abandoned by their parents on the steps of the then St Paul s High School. A strange coincidence you might say. That group was ill-prepared for the horrors that lay within but stuck to the task manfully over the next five or so years to eventually emerge and go on to make their impact on the world. Forty years later 34 survivors of that class gathered, accompanied by wives and partners, to reminisce and reflect on those school days and their subsequent lives. The reunion, which took place over the weekend of 16-18 March, was an informal affair, beginning on the Friday evening with drinks and a conversazione at Speights Ale House. On the Saturday some played golf, while others took a walk along the beach together, finishing up with a cup of coffee at the St Clair Esplanade; another group met at the Railway Station and, as they had done so many times in their youth, walked up the steep Rattray St hill to the site of their former school, which is now Kavanagh College. On the Saturday night the group 61 in all - enjoyed dinner at Plato Restaurant, and on Sunday morning attended the Kavanagh College Mass. After the Mass, former St Paul s and Kavanagh College teacher, Michael McConnell, gave them a guided tour of the college, where they were able to see the extent of the changes that had taken place since their own schooldays at St Paul s. Those who attended came from as far afield as Paris, Minnesota and Australia, and several from the North Island, and, to a man, are pledged to return for more of the same in 2017. Interestingly, some booked their accommodation for the Friday and Saturday nights in the Rattray Street building which was once the home of their former teachers, the Christian Brothers. Then known as the Brothers house, it is now a boutique hotel named, appropriately, The Brothers. The gathering was an occasion for humour and camaraderie which reflected the strong bonds that grow no matter the circumstances. Most attendees imagined that, with a school uniform, they could slip back unnoticed into the school ranks; however the accompanying photo gives the lie to that! - Paul Menzies Photo by Chris Sullivan Vatican expresses gratitude for Peter s Pence offering Bishop Colin has received a letter from the Vatican Secretary of State, on behalf of Pope Benedict XVI, acknowledging the offering of $7,654.65 which was forwarded to the Apostolic Nunciature as Peter s Pence from the Diocese of Dunedin for the year 2006. The Secretary wrote: His Holiness wishes me to thank you for this contribution to his apostolic ministry. He is aware that the collection involved effort and that your people were motivated by faith in Jesus Christ and union with the See of Peter. Invoking upon you and the clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese grace and peace in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing. A GRADE MECHANICAL REPAIRS FRIENDLY, PERSONAL SERVICE COMPUTERISED TUNING TOWBAR SUPPLY AND FIT ALL MAJOR MAKES AND MODELS OIL, PETROL, TYRES, BATTERIES LUBRICATION, WARRANT OF FITNESS MIKE WASSELL MOTORS LTD. 27 Cumberland St, Dunedin, Phone 477-6795 Telephone 473-8519 P.O. Box 8047 24 Hour Service Dunedin McArthur & Symons Electricians Industrial & Domestic Electricians Security Systems Specialists Appliance Repairs For free quotes, expert advice and fast efficient 24 hour service, phone 473-8519 11
The Tablet 22 April 2007 St Kevin s College Scripture Reading One of the highlights of Term One i s t h e A n n u a l S c r i p t u r e R e a d i n g Competition. All students read the passage of scripture in their Religious Education classes and the teacher selects the class finalists to take part in the Year Level Competition. The tradition is very much part of our Dominican charism and Sister Madeleine was the adjudicator. Our congratulations to the following students who were successfully placed in the Y9 and 10 Scripture Reading Competition. Y9 1st Molly Roborgh 2nd Kezia Prestidge 3rd Dylan Ward-Smith Y10 1st Anna Eade 2nd Oliver Hailes 3rd Tom Lord & Patrick Fauth Community Service Over the past month, approximately 200 students have been involved in service to the community. The annual World Vision 40 Hour Famine was held at the college and involved in excess of 150 students. The Edmund Rice Singers travelled to Dunedin on 19 March to sing at the Dunedin Hospital and Little Sisters of the Poor. And on 11 March, a group of senior girls took part in the Relay for Life in Timaru raising money for the Cancer Society. Public Speaking Success Our congratulations to Ross Graham (Yr13) who has just been awarded the Speech New Zealand Lorimer Marshall Scholarship. This award is presented to the top South Island Public Speaking Senior Candidate, based on the 2006 examination results. Year 12 student, Lydia Roborgh was placed 3rd in the annual Otago Anniversay Day Secondary School Speech Contest promoted by the Otago Regional Council. This year s topic was on Climate change. Academic Success The NCEA statistics for 2006 were recently published in a media release and once again, the senior students at St Kevin s performed very well when compared to national results. SKC National Decile NCEA LEVEL 1 77.8% 59.3% 64.8 2 74.4% 63.3% 68.1 3 81.7% 51.6% 55.9 The senior students who took part in the Relay for Life. Anna Eade and Molly Roborgh. Ross Graham. Lydia Roborgh. ACCOUNTANTS TO THE DIOCESE OF DUNEDIN ACCOUNTING, MANAGEMENT, DATA PROCESSING, SECRETARIAL & TAXATION SERVICES Hannagan & Devereux C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N T A N T S MORAN BUILDING LOWER OCTAGON PO BOX 5555 DUNEDIN FAX (03) 479-0336 PHONE (03) 477-1496 12
22 April 2007 The Tablet Verdon College Bluff Marae Visit All Year 9 students at Verdon had the good fortune to attend Te Rau Aroha Marae in Bluff on 20-22 March. The primary focus of the trip was to increase cultural awareness and to enable the students to get in touch with their place as Southlanders. Other outside activities included exploring the Bluff environs, the museum, the harbour, Green Point and Motopohue with all the associated history. Students were vocal in their enthusiasm for the trip: The Marae trip was different to any camp I have ever been on. The meeting house was amazingly colourful and full of stories. The artwork was amazing, and the people s hospitality was great. It was kind of strange that both classes had to sleep in the same room, but nevertheless it wasn t a bad night s sleep. Well, apart from Hr Hartley continuously snoring! Becky Leishout We spent most of our time in the Marae buildings that provided a visually stimulating and modern house to live in. We learnt about the ancestors and their children, we played games, did quizzes and created art from the inspiration that surrounded us. We ate like kings, then went to bed late and slept on mattresses in one big room with the old ladies, Tupuna looking down on us with care. Some of us discovered that these ancestral figures are actually our own. Caritas A group of eight Year 13 students have been working together to raise awareness for Caritas, the Catholic Aid Agency. A number of organized activities through the Lenten period included a sausage sizzle, selling ice creams, a bucket race and living in a slum overnight at the end of Term One. The slum was a graphic reminder to the students of what poor conditions are really like. Student Achievement Tom Scully (Year 13) was named in New Zealand U19 Track Cycling Team to compete at the Junior World Champs in Mexico in August this year. At the recent National Track Cycling Champs held at the Invercargill Velodrome, Tom won the bronze medal in the U19 8km scratch race and was a member of the team which set the New Zealand record in the 4000m teams pursuit. Tom s results at the Nationals earned him a spot in the two-day training camp following the nationals where they selected the cyclists to represent New Zealand. Tom is one of four Southlanders to be named in the team. We wish Tom well for his training leading up to the Junior World Champs. Douglas Sekone-Fraser (Yr11) has been selected to compete at the U16-U18 Australian Age Group Weight-lifting Championships in Sydney. Verdon Year 9 students at Te Rau Aroha Marae. Year 13 students provide a sausage sizzle to raise funds for Caritas. Performers in Verdon s Festival of Shakespeare entry. University of Otago Sheilah Winn Festival of Shakespeare Verdon s entry into this annual competition, a selection of scenes from Macbeth, won the technical award of the evening. Called to a stark stage by the beating of a drum, the actors gave a polished and slick performance. Notable for their eerily convincing performances were the three witches. Well done to the whole cast who performed with distinction. Secondary School Athletics Well done to Ryan Jones (Year 10) who has broken long standing records in both the U14 Boys 3000m and the U14 Boys 1500m at the Southland Athletics; he went on to better his performance at the Otago Southland Athletics in the U14 Boys 300m and coming third in the 1500m. Also well done to Kendall McMinn (Yr 11), who was placed first in the U15 Girls long jump in the Otago Southland competition. 13
The Tablet 22 April 2007 Kavanagh College Academic Blues for 2006 Ex-Kavanagh College teacher, Dr Sue France, was this year s guest speaker at our Academic Blues Award evening. As well as celebrating their academic excellence, Dr France left the students with a strong message: to Respect our own gifts, to Serve our community and world, to work for Justice and to be seekers of the Truth in order to make a difference. Congratulations to our Top Scholars for 2006: Yr 13 Kate Turner, Yr 12 Mark Murray and Yr 11 John Holmes. Caritas Solidarity Day Kavanagh College observed National Caritas Solidarity Day on Friday March 30. Led by DRS Colin McLeod, along with our Head/Service Prefects (who camped overnight on the school grounds in slum conditions) we marked the occasion by holding a no-label mufti day. The idea was to live in hardship for a short time and for students to have a small personal experience of what it feels like to be hungry. Students were encouraged to fast for the day and to bring a dollar donation in order to receive a slice of bread for their lunch from the Survive a Slum students. Easter This year, we shared the story of the Easter triduum. With this liturgy, we wove together aspects of our Social Justice projects as our response to following Christ. Gillette Cup Cricket Success Kavanagh College created history last month when it became the first Catholic co-ed school to ever qualify for the finals of the Gillette Cup, the National secondary schools boys cricket knockout competition. Eight schools contest the finals, to be held in Palmerston North in December. It is only the third time a co-ed school has made the finals since the Gillette Cup started in 1990. It is the first time a South Island co-ed school has made it. Only one other Catholic School St Patrick s Silverstream has ever been to the finals. The Otago Southland zone has been dominated by OBHS. Kavanagh met OBHS in this year s zone final, and after scoring 205 (Nick Eathorne 49, Michael Bracewell 34), Kavanagh bowled tightly and fielded magnificently to clinch an exciting 14-run win. Tumua Ioane and Matt Lobb were the principal wicket-takers. Earlier, Kavanagh had beaten John McGlashan by 110 runs, and Kings HS by 20 runs in an equally exciting semi-final. Kavanagh fields just three cricket teams, and its First XI has a mix of age groups, including three 15 year olds. It does, however, have a number of Otago age group representatives and, unusually for a school of this size, boasts two New Zealand under 19 training squad members left arm spinner and middle order batsman, Nick Beard, and wicketkeeper/batsman Michael Bracewell. Bracewell, Beard and Ioane were members of the Otago under 17 team which won the New Zealand under 17 title for the first time ever this season. The team is coached by Mark Bracewell and managed by Dave Eathorne. Kavanagh College First XI. Back row (from left): Mark Bracewell (coach), Nick Eathorne, Daniel Willemsen, Tumua Ioane, Sam Buchan, Louis Tili, Nick Coughlan. Front row: Matt Lobb, Nick Beard, Daryl Caldwell, Sean O Callaghan, Michael Bracewell, Paul Denton. Caritas Solidarity Day. The girls are, from left: Emma Penman (Deputy Head girl), Sarah O Connell and Miriam Noonan (Service Prefects). Athletic Sports Results The annual College Athletic Sports Day was held in early March in cool, blustery conditions. Along with excellent levels of participation, a number of outstanding performances were seen. The standard of sprinting was especially good and it was also great to see a number of very promising junior athletes performing strongly. The following students broke records in their events. Alex Gorrie (Int Boys) 1500m - 4:36.72 minutes; Sarah Cutler (Jun Girls) 1500m - 5:45.16 minutes; Samara Gallaher (U15 Girls) Shot Put - 9.76 metres (broken for the 3rd consecutive year); Gabrielle Tili (U12 Girls) Shot Put - 6.25 metres. Finally, congratulations to the following students who are the Athletic Sports Champions and Runners Up for 2007. Junior: Boys: Champion, Isaak Caldwell-Hakopa; Joint Runner Up, Hayden Whitcombe, Sam Bremer Girls: Joint Champion, Sarah Cutler, Tessa Sutton Intermediate: Boys: Champion, Guy Woodhouse; Runner Up, Alex Gorrie Girls: Champion, Caroline Crowley; Runner Up, Samara Gallaher Senior: Boys: Champion, Michael Bracewell; Runner Up, Zach Lowe Girls: Champion, Gabe Clydesdale Huch; Runner Up, Clair Pilcher. 14
22 April 2007 The Tablet Photographed at the Academic Blues Assembly are Back Row from left: Rachel Riddle, Hannah Gardyne, Paula MacKenzie, Emily Paterson, Joshua Bone, Sarah Millard, Bridget Chamberlain, Brianne Lindsay, Sarah O Brien. Front Row: Anna Broome, Kate Perniskie, Ruth Low (Year 9 to 11 Learning Tutor), Martin Chamberlain, Kate Leebody (Year 12 and 13 Learning Tutor), Adele Hunter, Anna McLeod. Absent: Ben Adams. Bridget Jones record high jump. St Peter s College Our annual Academic Blues assembly celebrated the achievements of 14 students. The only lamentable feature is the lack of boys but they are doing comparatively well, as you will read below. We now have final results from NZQA that allow us to compare ourselves with others in various ways. Our comparison with single sex schools makes for interesting reading: St Peter s College girls: all NZ girls: all NZ girls only schools Y11 earning Level 1: 79%: 65.2%: 77.8% Y12 earning Level 2: 94%: 69.1%: 81.2% Y13 earning Level 3: 95%: 58.7%: 71.9% St Peter s College boys: all NZ boys: all NZ boys only schools Y11 earning Level 1: 83%: 55.5%: 64.6% Y12 earning Level 2: 71%: 58.9%: 65.5% Y13 earning Level 3: 71%: 45.6%: 51.6% The Southland Secondary Schools Athletics were held,recently in Invercargill where four Southland records were broken, two of them by St Peter s students. Bridgette Jones won the U15 Girls High Jump with a jump of 1.58 metres and Rebecca Gibson won the Senior Girls 400m sprint in 59.82 seconds. The Catholic Enquiry Centre needs your prayers and your donations. Their address is 140 Austin Street, Wellington. Rebecca Gibson s record sprint. Pope urged Iran to release 15 Britons The Vatican revealed that Benedict XVI sent a written appeal to the supreme leader of Iran seeking the release of the 15 British military personnel held captive in the nation. Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, the director of the Vatican press office, confirmed that the Holy Father sent a letter to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in which he manifested his confidence in men of good will to find a solution to this crisis. The Vatican gave no further details on the content of the letter. According to the London-based newspaper Guardian, the letter was delivered hours before the release on Thursday of the marines and sailors, who had been held in Iran since March 23. - Zenit Mark Devereux Colin Strang Financial Services Ltd 30 London St Dunedin PO Box 5047 Phone: 03 477 5622 Mobile: 027 245 1617 Email: mark@colinstrang.co.nz Mark Devereux has been a financial adviser for over 15 years and is able to provide common sense and practical advice on your investments, superannuation and insurance needs. 15
The Tablet 22 April 2007 Novena to St Clair Important. Ask for specific things. Pray the Hail Mary for 9 consecutive days. Keep a candle lit while you pray. Pray even though you do not feel like it. Ask for two things which appear nigh impossible, but for which you desperately want a solution. Leave the candle to burn up completely on the last day and publish this message. A.C.M., M.H. Prayer to the Holy Spirit O Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can obtain my goal. You gave the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and in all instances of my life you are with me. I want to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. (This prayer must be said for three days and the prayer published). (Published in this issue on behalf of A.C.M., T.L.G.) YOUTH OFFICE POSITION A part-time (22 ½ hours) fixed term position (20 months) is available for an energetic person with administrative and current experience and involvement in Youth Ministry. For further information and a Job Description, please contact Lorraine McArthur, Archdiocesan Pastoral Services, P.O. Box 1937, Wellington, or Phone (04) 1706, or email l.mcarthur@wn.catholic.org.nz Please support our advertisers. They help to make this paper possible. Novena to St Jude Oh, Holy St Jude, apostle and martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles. Near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you to whom God has given such great power, to come to my assistance. Help me in my present, urgent petition (make request). In return, I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Marys and 3 Glorias. St Jude, pray for me and all who invoke your aid, humbly in need of your intercession. Amen. This novena has never been known to fail. This novena must be said on nine consecutive days. (Published in this issue on behalf of: A.C.M., M.H.) DUNEDIN DIOCESAN MINISTRY TO YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS C/- Diocesan Youth Co-ordinator, Katrina Kerr-Bell, Phone (03) 456-3060, Mobile (025) 8177 66 katrina@kerr-bell.com Otago Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy University Chaplaincy - top floor Union building: 479-5348, Fr Mark Chamberlain, Amy Armstrong. Polytech and Dunedin College of Education Chaplaincy: 479-6094, Amy Armstrong, Pesamino Tili. St Vincent de Paul Vinnies Young Vinnies is all about putting your faith into action, helping others and having lots of fun! The Society has Youth and Young Adults Conferences all across New Zealand and around the world in schools, universities, colleges and parishes. If you care about others, then Vinnies is for you. Contact Barbara Walsh, Youth Co-ordinator, Society of St Vincent de Paul, phone (03) 477-0555, fax (03) 474-9952, e-mail svdp.dud@es.co.nz Dunedin Samoan Catholic Youth Group For details, contact Pesamino Tili, phone 453-0463. CathSoc CathSOC is the unified body of the Catholic Student groups: FOCUS, Sanmaru, Young Ruths, Young Samuels, Pro-L and the Living Waters Prayer Group. Please email danieleyre@hotmail.com for more details, or pick up a newsletter after 7pm Sunday Mass at Holy Name. P E T I T I O N Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary (never known to fail): O most beautiful flower of Mt Carmel, fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here thou art my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand thy power. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in thy hands (three times). This prayer must be said for three days and the prayer published. (Published on behalf of P.R., S.M.G., A.C.M., K.R.) May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, honoured, adored, and glorified throughout the world forever. Amen. Say six times for nine days and remember to promise publication. Your prayers will be answered, no matter how impossible it may seem to you, before the 9th day. (Published in this issue of behalf of P.R., A.C.M., J.J.W., D.N., A.L., S.J., C.J., P.E., M.M., E.M., P.A.B., M.H., B.J.N.) Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is given in good faith and has been derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. Neither the Roman Catholic Bishop nor any person involved in the preparation accept any form of liability whatsoever for its contents. The deadline for the May issue is May 2. Please address editorial contributions and correspondence to: Bernadette Murphy, 26 Connell St, Waverley, Dunedin. Phone 03 454 4150; fax 03 454 4154; email murphybb@clear.net.nz Commercial & Domestic Installation-Maintenance & Repair DN 471-0663 Bruce Dunn DUNEDIN ELECTRICAL (1977) LTD. 16