Lectio divina

Still posting

2009-07-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

Some might say that I've fallen off the earth these past months, but finally I'm back to the routine of posting in cyberspace. Check out the newer posts, and subesquent ones under the title An Attitude of Gratitude.

Dance of a thousand hands

2009-03-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

The proverbial 'they' say that good theatre is good liturgy. If that's true, then the ancient cultures who have become so good at theatre have much to teach us, and perhaps we are wise to listen.

This year, as part of the Spring Festival celebrations which marked the Chinese New Year, a group of twenty-one dancers performed the Dance of a Thousand Hands. To the western eye, this is a beautiful mixture of colour and movement that is a true display of talent, but moreso of discipline and what must represent HOURS of work.

The accomplishment is all the more remarkable considering that all the performers are deaf. They can't hear any of the music, and must rely on prompts from trainers who are situated at the four corners of the stage!

The Dance of a thousand hands was first débuted on the international stage at the Athens Paralympic Games in 2004, but it has long been part of the repertoire of the Chinese Disabled Peoples Performing Arts Troupe and has appeared in more than 40 countries.

Farewell ... and hello

2009-03-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Holy Father concluded his visit to Cameroon. As is his custom, he delivered a farewell speech at Nsimalen International Airport in Yaoundé before boarding the plane for the journey to Angola.

The Holy Father is pictured here arriving at the airport in Luanda, Angola.

A few hours later, he arrived in Luanda (Angola) and shared warm greetings at the 4 de Fevereiro International Airport in that city. The Holy Father acknowledged his desire to visit all of Africa, but recognized that it has been necessary to restrict the itinerary to Yaoundé and to Luanda.

The remainder of the day yesterday was devoted to a meeting with civil authorities and members of the Diplomatic Corps of the country of Angola (which took place at the Presidential Palace) and to a meeting with the bishops of Angola and Säo Tomé (in the chapel of the Apostolic Nunciature in Luanda).

Today, the Holy Father was expected to celebrate Mass with the bishops, priests, religious people, ecclesial movements and catechists of Angola and São Tomé at São Paolo Church in Luanda, and then to attend a special meeting with youth at Dos Coqueiros Stadium in Luanda.

A word of fraternal encouragement

2009-03-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

The last of the Holy Father's scheduled meetings during his brief visit to Cameroon took place last night. The invited guests were the members of the Special Council of the Synod for Africa, who have been busy preparing the documents which will lay the groundwork for an important encounter scheduled to take place in October 2010 in Rome.

Just yesterday, the official Lineamenta (outline of the meeting) and the Instrumentum Laboris (working document) were presented publicly by the Pope himself. Tonight's meeting with the Special Council gave him the opportunity to suggest some specific reflections on the themes of reconciliation, justice and peace, thereby adding his own thoughts to the process of preparation for this significant meeting.

The Instrumentum Laboris concludes with a special prayer which the Holy Father invited the gathered members to recite on a regular basis in the coming months, along with the faithful as a vocal commitment to prayer for the success of the Synod.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, Protectress of Africa, you have given the
world its true light, Jesus Christ. By your obedience to the Father and by the
grace of the Holy Spirit, you have given us the source of our reconciliation and
our joy.

Mother of tenderness and wisdom, show us Jesus, your Son and the Son of
God, sustain our journey of conversion, so that Jesus may enlighten us with his
Glory in all the settings of our personal, family and social life.

Mother full of Mercy and Justice, by your docility to the Spirit, the
Comforter, obtain for us the grace to be witnesses of the Risen Lord, so that we
may become ever more fully the salt of the earth and the light of the
world.

Mother of Perpetual Succour, to your maternal intercession we entrust
the preparation and the fruits of the Second Synod for Africa. Queen of Peace,
pray for us! Our Lady of Africa, pray for us!

If words could heal

2009-03-20T05:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Holy Father met with a group of sick and suffering folk in Cameroon. The location of this meeting was the Paul Émile Léger Centre, named for the Canadian Cardinal who was so well known for work among the people of that country.

Continuing the theme of his pastoral visit, the Holy Father spoke words of consolation to those who were gathered, telling them that they are not alone: that Christ himself is close to all those who suffer. Like Jesus himself, who chose to spend time in presence of those who were suffering the Pontiff's purpose is to demonstrate his fraternal tenderness and benevolence towards all the broken-hearted, all whose bodies are wounded.

For so many years, the people of Africa have been the outcasts, thanks to those of us who find ourselves living in other parts of the world. Therefore this visit bears all the more relevance as the Pope demonstrates his fraternal concern for those who suffer in silence or otherwise. This is the task set before all of us who follow in the footsteps of the Lord: bring good news to the poor ... proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind ... let the oppressed go free ... proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord (cf Lk 4:18-19).

Preparing for next year ... with the help of the Saints

2009-03-19T08:57:00.000-07:00

Next Fall, there will be a special assembly organized by the Synod Office and held in Rome to discuss issues pertaining to the Church in Africa. In preparation for this Assembly, the Holy Father presented the working document (called an Instrumentum laboris) during a meeting with the Bishops of Cameroon today.

Fourteen years after the publication of the Post-synodal document on the Church in Africa, the Holy Father now called today on his brothers in the episcopacy and others who will partake in this meeting, to prepare well for the exchange which will take place next year.

The unveiling of the Instrumentum laboris took place at the conclusion of a publicly celebrated open-air Mass which the Holy Father celebrated, accompanied by the bishops and priests as well as the faithful of Cameroon. This celebration took place in the Amadou Ahidjo stadium in Yaoundé.

During his homily, the Holy Father reflected on the example of Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary, whose Feast day is celebrated today. He called all those present to be people of faith and trust, accepting the duty and role which has been consigned to us by the Lord, looking to him for guidance and assurance in time of trial, but also trusting that he will inspire us to fulfill the tasks entrusted to us with care, love and attention.

These words, spoken to the people of Cameroon, are equally applicable to all of us who strive daily to live lives of faith, to seek the answers that only come with trust and prayer, and to share the values of love and commitment with those entrusted to our care. We model that which we have learned in the school of prayer, at the feet of the saints like Joseph, and his wife Mary.

Day 3

2009-03-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

Continuing a tradition which he himself began during his extra-Vatican voyages, the Holy Father met this morning with representatives of the Muslim community in Cameroon. The diplomacy which is characteristic of the Vatican was more than evident in the wording of the speech he gave to the gathered dignitaries:

Our encounter is a vivid sign of the desire we share with all people of good will – in Cameroon, throughout Africa and across the globe – to seek opportunities to exchange ideas about how religion makes an essential contribution to our understanding of culture and the world, and to the peaceful coexistence of all the members of the human family.

Focusing on the common tasks which Christians and Muslims must face in the immediate future, the Holy Father expressed his belief that we must strive to unveil the vast potential of human reason, which is itself God’s gift and which is elevated by revelation and faith. Belief in the one God, far from stunting our capacity to understand ourselves and the world, broadens it. Far from setting us against the world, it commits us to it. We are called to help others see the subtle traces and mysterious presence of God in the world which he has marvellously created and continually sustains with his ineffable and all-embracing love.

Seeking out the common threads which we must all cling to and work from is the key to any negotiations, be they around the bargaining table or involving the most delicate of international relations.

These words, which seem to roll off the tongue, are presented in the context of some very auspicious moments, but the hard work of bringing these dreams to reality is the challenge which the Pontiff leaves behind, entrusting to the local Church and to the members of the Muslim community in Cameroon, the task of working out the details. All efforts toward peace and reconciliation are to be lauded, and a gesture of support such as this can only serve to help solidify the working relationship which is so essential if such dreams as peace, concord and understanding are to come about.

Questions and answers ... and more

2009-03-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

The Holy Father's on the move again. This time to the heart of darkness as he ventures to Cameroon and Angola. Whenever the pontiff travels, there is great interest generated, and words spoken at key moments have a way of making their way into the media, even half a world away.

Yesterday, he granted an audience to journalists aboard the flight from Rome, a gesture which has become part of the protocol at least since his predecessor began to undertake international travel with such frequency. The Globe and Mail reported details about the Holy Father's comments specifically on the subject of contraception and fighting the spread of AIDS, but as expected, the discussion aboard the papal plane was much more broad scoped. Here, read for yourself some of the comments about the impact of the world economic crisis on the poor of the world, and the comments he made about Africa and the importance of sects compared to the message proclaimed by the Church.

Arriving at the airport in Yaounde, Cameroon, the Holy Father was received by President Paul Biya, as well as a delegation which included Archbishop Simon-Victor Tonye Bakot of Yaounde, President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon, and Cardinal Christian Wiyghan Tumi, archbishop emeritus of Douala. His pastoral greeting spoke of his duty to confirm brothers and sisters in the faith and to celebrate with you the life- giving faith in Christ that sustains and nourishes so many of the sons and daughters of this great continent.

Benedict did speak with those gathered at the official welcoming ceremony about the horrible truth and devastation caused by AIDS, but his tone was definitely one of concern and love: The Holy Father praised the local Church's concern for sick people, describing the fact that AIDS sufferers in Cameroon are able to receive treatment free of charge as "particularly commendable". He also mentioned Church commitment to education, especially in the work of the Catholic University for Central Africa, "a sign of great hope for the future of the region".

Referring to Cameroon as a land of hope, life and peace, His Holiness began what is scheduled to be a 4-day visit in Cameroon, before he continues to Angola, and spends another three days greeting the faithful in that country.

Today, the pope met with the 31 bishops who presently exercise their episcopal ministry in Cameroon. The venue for this encounter was the church of Christ-Roi in Tsinga, Yaounde where he shared some precious time reflecting on the fraternity which is essential to those who must be signs of unity and peace as we proclaim the message of life that Jesus first came to speak. He praised the bishops for the numerous vocations which are currently being nurtured in Cameroon and urged the bishops to renew their efforts at evangelization as a means of countering the trend toward a multiplicity of sects.

Tonight, the Holy Father celebrated Vespers in the Basilica Marie Reine des Apôtres in Mvolyé, Yaoundé and tomorrow his public activities include the celebration of Mass in the Amadou Ahidjo Stadium, Yaoundé where he will publish the Instrumentum Laboris (working document) for the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops; as well as three other meetings with members of the Muslim community of Cameroon, with the world of suffering people, and with members of the Special Council for Africa of the Synod of Bishops, probably a followup to the publication of the working document, and a preparatory session for the upcoming Synod.

Wow, he's a busy guy!

A Priestly Year

2009-03-16T06:01:00.000-07:00

Jean Marie Vianney, better known as the Curé d'Ars has been dead a very long time. In fact this year marks the 150th anniversary of his death, and to mark this 'special milestone' the Holy Father announced this morning in Rome that there will be a special Year of Priesthood observed once the Pauline Year comes to an end.

The Year of Priesthood will begin on June 19, 2009 and will end on June 19, 2010 and will be moulded by the theme Christ-like faith, priestly faith. The Holy Father will innaugurate this special year by presiding at Vespers on the evening of June 19, first vespers of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of Sanctification of Priests, in presence of the relequary of the Curé d'Ars and the Bishop of Belley-Ars. His Holiness will close the Year of Priesthood on June 19, 2010 by participating in a World Meeting of Priests which will take place in Saint Peter's Square in Rome.

During this coming jubilee year, His Holiness will proclaim Saint Jean-Marie Vianney as Patron saint of all priests and a special Directory for Confessors and Spiritual Directors will be published along with a collection of texts prepared by the Supreme Pontiff on the essential themes of the life and ministry of priests today.

The Congregation for Clergy, along with Diocesan Ordinaries and Major Superiors of Religious Orders will be entrusted with the promotion and coordination of a variety of spiritual and pastoral initiatives aimed at allowing all people to better appreciate the role and the mission of priests in the Church and in the world today. It is hoped that this will be a springtime of discovery for those discerning a call to priesthood, and will also be beneficial to those who are currently in formation for ministry.

In the press

2009-03-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

In addition to the reflections provided this week about the recent declaration that the excommunications imposed against the Lefebvrist bishops were lifted (see A storm a'brewing ... and then the fallout), here are a few more of the media reflections I've uncovered: all evidence of how much confusion there is over this 'act of mercy':

Rome responds to Saint Pius X uproar, which appeared in the magazine America (February 16, 2009)

A gaffe too far, an article by the BBC Rome and Vatican correspondent David Willey, which appeared in The Tablet (February 7, 2009)

Old wounds open, an article by The Tablet's France correspondent Alain Woodrow (February 7, 2009)

Healing the rift, an article by Edward Kessler which appeared in The Tablet (February 7, 2009)

Two faiths together, an article by Isabel de Bertodano, which appeared in The Tablet (February 7, 2009)

On Detachment

2009-03-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

For the better part of the day yesterday, and for quite a few days earlier this week, I struggled with a decision. I knew that this morning, I would be standing in front of a crowd of people thirsting for some truth, some wise words, some reason to deepen their understanding of God and-or the level at which they would marvel at the way He accompanies us on our journey through life. The question though was what exactly would I have to say to this crowd? How would I tell the truth that I've been called to share with them?

Finally yesterday afternoon, I sat down and wrote a few thoughts. I've been asked on at least three other occasions to lead one of the five Saturday sessions which form part of this mini retreat, and every time, I'm nervous about what I will say.

The theme for this year's retreat is Who are you in Christ? This subject is broad enough to allow for a number of different interpretations and there's lots of room for individual personalities to enter the picture. As subtexts to guide our preparation, a series of titles were provided to the presenters, and mine was Detachment from the world.

Many possible images danced in my mind but it wasn't until I was actually standing in front of the gathered crowd that I was able to begin expressing the truth that needed to be told. For a professed introvert who likes to know what's going to happen even before it takes place, that's a difficult thing to do, but it's a lesson in trust that I guess I need to learn.

Starting with the parable of the rich young man, I tried to reflect on the call that each of us faces to be a disciple, a call to let go of our security blankets and to trust that all will be well in the murky land of the unknown. This is a call that necessitates a certain letting go, and sometimes the process of surrendering can be the most difficult challenge in and of itself. But then again, that's one of the truths that Lent calls us all to face: the fact that whether or not we want to admit it, we're not in charge of the big picture, and when God calls, all we can do is cooperate. If we try to put up roadblocks, He just finds another way around, like water that's momentarily stopped by a fragile dam.

Life presents all kinds of challenges. Many of us are all too aware of economic turbulence that characterizes the investment horizon these days. Living with the uncertainty of this turbulence can indeed be very trying, but in the end, if we're able to keep at least a modicum of perspective and find at least some balance in the midst of everything that we have to juggle, there is a ray of hope.

A world that has become too accustomed to material wealth is now being severely tested, but at the other end of the tunnel, what we stand to gain will be a renewed appreciation for the people in our lives, and a humility that allows us to reach out a hand of assistance to those who need our help while also being able to admit that we ourselves can't live life on our own, without the help of others from time to time. Other generations have known this truth; we just need to learn it.

The morning ended with some time to reflect on the parable of the prodigal son, yet another wonderful example of the power of detachment, and the freedom that comes when we put our energies into building and cultivating relationships rather than amassing tangible wealth. Someone who has experienced the power of this kind of love is truly wealthy, and is able to share an inexhaustible source of blessings with others.

... and then the fallout

2009-03-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

This morning, the Pope's letter to brother bishops was published in Rome, and while the Press Conference was going on in the Aula Paolo VI, the Holy Father himself was meeting with representatives from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. In his address to the gathered leaders, he expressed his joy at the prospect of visiting the Holy Land. Plans for this voyage were announced just a few days ago.

Was it by coincidence that this meeting happened on the same day as the Holy Father's letter to bishops was being published? The letter and its contents are being read and digested by many and the fallout from the Holy Father's words are already resounding, either in whispered corners or through resounding hallways.

Evidence the Tablet's coverage:

Church in the World: Pope's letter defends overtures toward SSPX
Full-bodied row in Bordeaux (October 28, 2006)
Already inside the tent: Benedict and the Lefebvrists (February 14, 2009)
Now it's up to them (February 14, 2009)

Not to be overlooked in the debate over the lifting of the excommunications, Christoph Cardinal Schönborn, Archbishop of Vienna. Along with other German-speaking Cardinals, Schönborn has been noted to remark: "A mistake has obviously occurred here. Someone who denies the Holocaust cannot be rehabilitated to an ecclesial office. One cannot but voice a certain criticism of the Vatican for not looking into the matter more closely."

Poor Holy Father. Even as the plans for his upcoming visit to the Holy Land are being completed, there is already concern being voiced over his decision not to enter Israel's main holocaust museum during the trip which he will undertake in early May. Don't worry, concerns such as these are a normal part of the posturing that takes place in the run-up to any papal voyage. The truth of the matter, at least on this score, will only be known in the coming weeks.

A storm a'brewing

2009-03-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

On January 24, 2009, during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the Holy Father declared that the Lefebvrists - the four bishops who had been excommunicated in 1988 latae sententiae.

Since that time, Rome and many other parts of the ecclesial world have been all a-twitter (please excuse the pun) about this decision which although meant with all good intentions, has left many questions unanswered.

In the January 31, 2009 issue of The Tablet, Robert Mickens published a very good exposé on the matter in his article entitled Benedict's high risk strategy. The Holy Father's intentions were and are good. 'According to the Vatican statement issued last Saturday,' (January 24, 2009), ' the Pope hopes that full communion would be reached as soon as possible, but the decree has raised many questions about the relationship between the Society of Saint Pius X (otherwise known as the Lefebvrists) and the Vatican, concerns among the faithful about the impact on the Church and shock at the apparent welcome of one of the bishops, Robert Williamson, who has made outrageous anti-Semitic statements (which Vatican officials have roundly condemned).'

This morning, the Vatican Press Office issued a special statement of clarification which His Holiness has addressed to the bishops of the world. In his letter to his brothers in the episcopal ministry, His Holiness acknowledged that the remission of the excommunication of the four Bishops consecrated in 1988 by Archbishop Lefebvre without a mandate of the Holy See has for many reasons caused, both within and beyond the Catholic Church, a discussion more heated than any we have seen for a long time. What was intended as a gesture of reconciliation, ended up causing controversy because the Williamson case came as an unforseen mishap.

A gesture of reconciliation with an ecclesial group engaged in a process of separation thus turned into its very antithesis: an apparent step backwards with regard to all the steps of reconciliation between Christians and Jews taken since the Council.

His Holiness then goes on to explain that the remission of the excommunication (a disciplinary measure employed only in cases of extreme necessity) must be understood as different from the doctrinal realities which still need to be healed in the case of the Lefebvrists. The lifting of disciplinary measures could take effect because the four men in question had agreed in principle to recognize the primacy of the Roman Pontiff, althogh they still have some difficulty with acknowledging the validity of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council.

This process has evidently caused a great deal of pain and confusion for many. The act of reversing the excommunication is meant as a signal that reconciliation is en route, but in this case is not a sign that the work is complete.

Effective today, the Holy Father has joined the Vatican offices of the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei, which was created in 1988 as a means of opening a door to the possibility of reconciliation between the Church and the Society of Saint Pius X as well as other similar groups throughout the world, with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. In this way, he hopes to signal the fact that the discrepancies still to be addressed are doctrinal in nature and not disciplinary, at least insofar as they pertain to the members of the Society of Saint Pius X.

Reconciliation is always tricky business, and measures advanced are often misunderstood, but the Holy Father reminds us that the call for reconciliation first echoed in the time of the apostles and invoked on the day of his pontifical innauguration, still remains at the heart of his ministry as Supreme Pontiff. These are certainly very painful times for Benedict to live. There have been both boquets and brick bats hurled at him over these past few weeks, and it will be some time yet before all the smoke clears over this most controversial matter.

Human nature has not changed much since the time when Paul first wrote to the Galatians: "Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love be servants of one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself’. But if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you are not consumed by one another." (Gal 5:13-15)

At the conclusion of his letter, the Holy Father encourages his brothers, and all Catholics to pray for peace and to see the season of Lent as a liturgical season particularly suited to interior purification, inviting all of us to look with renewed hope to the light which awaits us at Easter.

The travelling pilgrim

2009-03-08T05:50:00.000-07:00

Next week, he's off to Camaroon and Angola, and just this morning, the Vatican Press Office announced that he's planning another trip - this time to the Holy Land - after Easter.

Accepting the invitation of the king of Jordan, the President of Israel, the President of the Palestinian National Authority and of the Catholic Bishop's Assembly, His Holiness Benedict XVI will make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land from April 8 to 15, 2009, stopping at Aman, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth.

That's the end of the official communication posted today, but in the coming days, the negotiations will continue. Plans will include who he will visit, for how long, where they will meet, and even what he will say ... all very sensitively crafted but no doubt with his own mixture of pastoral sensitivity and characteristic forthrightedness.

Considering the significance of these lands to the historical happenings that are so central to the Church, and the unrest that has characterized the Holy Land for so long, this journey will be one of personal pilgrimage as well as international political positioning.

Making waves

2009-03-05T06:15:00.000-08:00

The proverbial 'they' always say that still waters run deep ... and what happens in the depths of some ponds can have catastrophic ramifications for those who find themselves in the midst of the tidal waves that result.

Evidence our neighbours to the south who have been revelling in the new-ness of a President who is revolutionizing almost all parts of the Office that are within his control. This is nothing new, but the effects of these changes are causing at least a little bit of consternation.

The on-line version of the National Catholic Register published an article this week about Mr. Obama's recently-announced choice for the position of Secretary for Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius from Kansas. According to the NCR, Ms. Sebelius (who we are not sure is related to the music composer of the same name) has had a track record which favors pro-choice issues, and this appointment, if confirmed, will give her a great amount of influence when it comes to policies and procedures on the national front.

From a viewpoint a bit removed, all we can do perhaps is watch ... or can we do something else to influence the choice?

At work in the vineyard

2009-03-01T06:25:00.001-08:00

Sorry, it's been a few days since I was able to check in. Lent seems to have just bolted out of the starting blocks.

The past days have been filled to capacity and beyond ... all in the name of doing good (I hope). There are moments of grace all round though. One of the things I have agreed to do is accompany students who are fulfilling requirements for the D.Min. offered at Saint Francis Xavier University as they make their way through the requirements of this distance education program. That means that from time to time, I meet with one or more of the 'students' to help them reflect about their work, and come to conclusions about the next steps that need to be taken. It's pretty rewarding work when we begin to see understanding dawn and the pieces fall into place. Some of the greatest learnings happen not while actually reading the material, but when struggling to understand it, digest it and put it into practice.

It's exciting to see that the students who are preparing for Confirmation have already begun to wade through the first chapter of the required reading and to at least explore the information that is provided on-line as part of their preparation for this Sacrament. In the coming days, the traffic in on our website will increase (I'm sure) now that the Science Fair requirements that most students have been completing are coming to an end, and the first deadlines for the Confirmation prep program are drawing near. Of course, since I'm overseeing this program too, that means that I get to check in on them from time to time - lots of fun and really rewarding for me too.

Combine all this with welcoming the newcomers to our prayer spaces and bidding adieu to those who are now with the Father in our eternal homeland, and it makes for a life that has little time to get dull, but lots of variation and many opportunities to marvel at the goodness, generosity and love of our God.

They're off

2009-02-25T22:10:00.000-08:00

What a day! It all began in the pre-dawn hours as I rolled out of bed. Bleary eyed, I grabbed for my breviary and had a chat with God. The psalms rolled off my tongue (or through my mind, as I didn't want to wake anyone else in the house), and the readings for the day included a meditation taken from a letter to the Corinthians (yep, the same ones Paul wrote to) written by Saint Clement, the fourth Pope. I always love the Office of Readings. It helps me to keep in touch with the saints who have gone before us, and to remember the great treasure that our faith is.

The sun was just rising when I made my way down the stairs and prepared for the first of two Masses that were celebrated today. There's something about this day that makes people come out in droves. The tracing with ashes on the foreheads of the faithful is still a very powerful symbol, and people thirst for meaningful symbols in today's world.

The first Mass began at 8:00 am and there were about 70 people present. The rythm of the liturgy continued, it's solemnity speaking majestically against the relative quiet of the early morning hours. Thirty minutes later, sinners who had come to this font of grace were back on their way out into the world, having met the Lord, having received the bread of eternal life, and having been refuelled for the journey - oh and yes with the dust of last year's palms traced on their foreheads.

The noon Mass is always more popular in a downtown parish, and this was no exception. I don't think there was an empty seat in the house, but scattered amidst the adults, I also noticed all 120 students from the nearby elementary school. This is their annual pilgrimage to the church - all of them, and it adds a certain something to see them too approach as we place ashes on their heads. After this second tide of humanity had also been fed, it was on to the next invitation to grace, which came in the form of preparing for the evening meeting.

Thanks to ingeneous planning, the evening of Ash Wednesday was spent with candidates who are preparing for Confirmation. They and their families came for this first meeting which was held at the beginning of Lent, and therefore reminiscent of the adults who for centuries have spent this holy season preparing for baptism or to be reconciled with themselves and with God. This brief gathering, which lasted about an hour or so gave me an opportunity to meet the candidates, and to explain a bit about the preparation program for Confirmation. In this parish, the program includes an on-line portion, which is very appealing to parents and candidates alike.

Having outlined the process, and walked through all the requirements, we sent them on their way ... I couldn't help thinking that we are all like these young people. We come to the Lord, recognizing our weaknesses, we ask for forgiveness, we listen to His instruction, we receive his gift of divine food and then we go on our way. Along the way, each of us shares with friends, acquaintances and strangers, the joys and struggles of deepening our faith.

What will Lent bring? How will we react to God's offer of divine gifts during this time of grace?

Happy Lent!

Still alive

2009-02-24T06:21:00.000-08:00

For the past number of months, following the annual Autumn gathering of the NFPC in Victoria, I've been MIA from these pages. Some may think that I've been sleeping, but the truth is anything but.

There's lots that I could write about, but let's start with today - or yesterday as it turns out. The Holy Father received one of my good friends in audience yesterday, and I'm glad to see this. Some may know that I first met Andrés Carrascosa while living in Ottawa. We became good friends while I was there, and have managed to keep in touch - albeit somewhat sporatically - over the past number of years.

I had already completed my stint in Ottawa when I received the joyful news that my friend had been appointed Titular Archbishop of Elo and Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Congo and to Gabon. In fact, I had the great privilege of attending his Episcopal Ordination which took place in Rome on the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary 2004.

Cardinal Sodano's homily was preached in French and in Spanish

Since that time, he has been hard at work. With his infectious joy for life and his customary love for God's people, he has managed to do much good in those two African nations, but life has not always been easy there either. There has been civil war brewing just across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and no doubt he's been part of that drama too.

In mid-January of this year, the Holy Father appointed him as Apostolic Nuncio to Panama. This means that for the past six weeks or so, he's been hard at work tying up loose ends, and packing his belongings. By now, they are probably well on their way and he is passing through Rome on his way to Central America. By custom, a newly-appointed Nuncio has three months from the date of his appointment to arrive in the place where he has been asked to serve, so I would expect that he will be in Panama sometime around Easter.

Mopping up - Italian style

2008-10-27T19:17:00.000-07:00

From October 5-26, 2008 there was a Synod of Bishops held in Rome. Synods of Bishops are called from time to time, as occasions for the Holy Father to consult with his brother bishops from various parts of the world on some major important subject for the life of the Church.

This latest Synod focused on the Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church. Throughout the Synod, a series of bulletins was issued to accredited members of the Press who in turn shared this information with their readers.

On the final day of the Synod and in the immediate aftermath of its closing, there have been a number of articles published which may be of interest. Check them out:

Benedict acknowledges being moved by Synod (posted October 26, 2008);
Synodal heartburn (posted October 26, 2008);
Pontiff says Word of God is Church's priority (posted October 26, 2008);
Synod presents 55 propositions to Pope (posted October 26, 2008);
Benedict XVI recalls Chinese unable to attend Synod (posted October 27, 2008);
Council chosen to prepare next Synod (posted October 27, 2008);
Papal homily to close Word of God Synod (posted October 27, 2008);
Synod suggests ministry of lector for women (posted October 27, 2008)

I'm sure that news from the Synod will continue to percolate from the voices of those who are responsible for feeding the grist mill, and those of us who hunger for analysis will have lots to occupy our time in the coming days, weeks and possibly even months.

Stay tuned ....

The aftermath

2008-10-26T10:12:00.000-07:00

Whenever there's a significant moment in our lives, or an experience that represents a turning point, it's often a good idea to take at least a brief pause to unpack the fruit of the experience and to begin to appropriate it.

The same is true of the experience I lived this week, in company with a number of other priests from various places across Canada. In these first few days, as we recover from the miles traveled and the whirlwind pace at which the week has unfolded, I'm reminded that there were a number of references sited, and other resources which we may choose to consult in an effort to deepen the experience that has just been lived.

Further reflection on some of the Documents of Vatican Council may very well be in order. Here are a few suggestions:

The Constituion on the Sacred Liturgy (Sacrosanctum concilium), published on December 4, 1963;
The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church (Lumen Gentium), published on November 21, 1964;
The Dogmatic Constition on Divine Revelation (Dei verbum), published on November 18, 1965;
The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et spes), published on December 4, 1965;
The Decree on the Means of Social Communication (Inter mirifica), published on December 4, 1963;
The Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis redintegratio), published on November 21, 1964;
The Decree on Eastern Churches (Orientalium Ecclesiarum), published on November 21, 1964;
The Decree on the Pastoral Office of Bishops in the Church (Christus Dominus), published on October 28, 1965;
The Decree on the Training of Priests (Optatam totius), published on October 28, 1965;
The Decree on the Adaptation and Renewal of Religious Life (Perfectae caritatis), published on October 28, 1965;
The Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People (Apostolicam actuositatem), published on November 18, 1965;
The Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests (Presbyterorum ordinis), published on December 7, 1965;
The Decree on the Church's Missionary Activity (Ad gentes divinitus), published on December 7, 1965;
The Declaration on Christian Education (Gravissimum educationis), published on October 28, 1965;
The Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-christian Religions (Nostra aetate), published on October 28, 1965; and
The Declation on Religious Liberty (Dignitatis humanae), published on December 7, 1965.

Adjournamento

2008-10-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

The party's over!

All the meetings have come to an end, and the delegates to the 2008 National Assembly of the NFPC are on the way back to their respective dioceses, cities, towns, villages and parishes, but not before at least a few of us take time to enjoy some of the local sights and sounds of Victoria.

One of the sights worth seeing is the home of the late Robert Dunsmuir and his family. Mr. Dunsmuir amassed his fortune by building one of the most formidable coal empires in Western Canada. With business interests which spread from Victoria to Nanaimo and from California to New York, he was what we might call a 'success' - at least in terms of those who call earthy wealth a hallmark to be heeded.

Mr. Dunsmuir built his home on an estate which originally covered 28 acres of land. Known as Craigdarroch Castle, it has served as a private home for the Dunsmuir family; as the site of the Craigdarroch Military Hospital; as Victoria College; provided offices for the Victoria School Board; as the Victoria Conservatory of Music; and finally as Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum.

If one wants to, it's possible to spend quite a bit of time in this historic mansion, viewing and appreciating all the nooks and crannies. No expense was spared when it was built, and there's a movement afoot now to restore it to its original granduer - not an easy task, and one which will surely take quite some time to complete.

While some of our brethren are taking advantage of the next few days to tour some of the riches and resources of Victoria Island, it seems that only hours after the meetings concluded, most of us were aboard various modes of transportation and headed for home. For some, that's a short hop on a ferry bound for Vancouver, and for others ... well ... trudging through airports comes to mind, but all is done with joy and thanksgiving for many blessings received this week, and for having met God along the way.

In the coming days, these blog entries will find their way onto the website of the National Federation of Presbyteral Councils, and other useful information and resources we uncovered this week will also be listed there. Stay tuned ...

Where do we meet God?

2008-10-24T23:52:00.000-07:00

As the week of meetings came to a close this morning, it was time for us to practice what we've been preaching all week.

Having heard the words of wisdom offered to us by His Excellency, John Corriveau, OFM Cap, and having listened to the counsel of one of only a very few Canadian Council Fathers, and having taken a fair amount of time to consider the possible Jericho's - places where the NFPC might consider investing our energies in the coming months and years, we took a moment to reflect on the blessings that we ourselves have experienced during this week.

The theme of our week - Honouring our Priesthood: Where we meet God has led us to consider the wisdom of the Saints and to remember that each of us is ordained to be a 'little word' which models the redemptive love of God. Ours is a long history and we have a rich tradition from which to draw our wisdom. Throughout this history, and even today, God is present to us in many and varied ways. All we need to do is to have eyes to see, ears to hear, hearts to welcome and spirits willing to celebrate this presence.

We are grateful for the presence of our liaison bishops - John Corriveau, OFM Cap, and Richard Grecco - at our meetings this week. Unfortunately, His Excellency, Martin Currie, our liaison bishop from Eastern Canada could not be physically with us, but we know that he is with us in spirit. We look forward to continued collaboration with these and all the bishops of Canada as we continue our work in service to the priests who exercise their presbyteral ministry in this country.

Fire in the belly

2008-10-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

This day began with a rare opportunity indeed. After the customary ablutions had all been observed, and once we had taken time to thank God for the gift of another day, we were ushered into what has become our conference room (at least while this illustrious event is taking place), for a two-hour meeting with one of only two living Canadian bishops who were present for the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, which took place from 1962-1965 in Rome.

BTW, the two I have in mind are of course His Excellency, Remi DeRoo, the Bishop-emeritus of Victoria (BC) and His Excellency, James Hayes, Bishop-emeritus of the Archdiocese of Halifax. Interestingly enough, these two remaining Council Fathers live at opposite ends of the country.

Rare are the opportunities for priests and the general public to hear the stories of what actually took place during those meetings in Rome which formed the Church as we know it today. That's what makes this opportunity so special. We sat and listened as this octogenarian spoke for the better part of two hours about the necessity for all those who are involved in the ministry of ordained priesthood to have 'fire in the belly'.

The passion which was lit in the hearts of those who sat in the Basilica of Saint Peter for the deliberations, was more than evident in this man. Would that we priests who are busy about the Father's business would have a fraction of the enthusiasm he portrayed. We would have more than enough energy to continue the work of plowing the vineyard, inspiring the people of God, and modeling the life of a disciple.

If one wants to find the fuel to ignite the fire that burns deep within, Bishop DeRoo is convinced that all we need to do is return to the documents of Vatican II. Here are a few insights that may be helpful:

According to Bishop DeRoo, much about the mind of the Church at the time, especially in terms of the rights of workers, the place of women in the Church and the Church's mission of creating level playing fields for nations of differing fortunes was outlined in John XXIII's encyclical Pacem in terris
The Council also spoke about the fact that only in Christ do we discover the full meaning of what human beings are meant to be. The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et spes) speaks to this very subject:

22. The truth is that only in the mystery of the incarnate Word does the mystery of man take on light. For Adam, the first man, was a figure of Him Who was to come,(20) namely Christ the Lord. Christ, the final Adam, by the revelation of the mystery of the Father and His love, fully reveals man to man himself and makes his supreme calling clear. It is not surprising, then, that in Him all the aforementioned truths find their root and attain their crown.

He Who is "the image of the invisible God" (Col. 1:15),(21) is Himself the perfect man. To the sons of Adam He restores the divine likeness which had been disfigured from the first sin onward. Since human nature as He assumed it was not annulled,(22) by that very fact it has been raised up to a divine dignity in our respect too. For by His incarnation the Son of God has united Himself in some fashion with every man. He worked with human hands, He thought with a human mind, acted by human choice(23) and loved with a human heart. Born of the Virgin Mary, He has truly been made one of us, like us in all things except sin.(24)

As an innocent lamb He merited for us life by the free shedding of His own blood. In Him God reconciled us(25) to Himself and among ourselves; from bondage to the devil and sin He delivered us, so that each one of us can say with the Apostle: The Son of God "loved me and gave Himself up for me" (Gal. 2:20). By suffering for us He not only provided us with an example for our imitation,(26) He blazed a trail, and if we follow it, life and death are made holy and take on a new meaning.

The Christian man, conformed to the likeness of that Son Who is the firstborn of many brothers,(27) received "the first-fruits of the Spirit" (Rom. 8:23) by which he becomes capable of discharging the new law of love.(28) Through this Spirit, who is "the pledge of our inheritance" (Eph. 1:14), the whole man is renewed from within, even to the achievement of "the redemption of the body" (Rom. 8:23): "If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the death dwells in you, then he who raised Jesus Christ from the dead will also bring to life your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who dwells in you" (Rom. 8:11).(29) Pressing upon the Christian to be sure, are the need and the duty to battle against evil through manifold tribulations and even to suffer death. But, linked with the paschal mystery and patterned on the dying Christ, he will hasten forward to resurrection in the strength which comes from hope.(30)

All this holds true not only for Christians, but for all men of good will in whose hearts grace works in an unseen way.(31) For, since Christ died for all men,(32) and since the ultimate vocation of man is in fact one, and divine, we ought to believe that the Holy Spirit in a manner known only to God offers to every man the possibility of being associated with this paschal mystery.

Such is the mystery of man, and it is a great one, as seen by believers in the light of Christian revelation. Through Christ and in Christ, the riddles of sorrow and death grow meaningful. Apart from His Gospel, they overwhelm us. Christ has risen, destroying death by His death; He has lavished life upon us(33) so that, as sons in the Son, we can cry out in the Spirit; Abba, Father.(34)

Specifically regarding priests, the Council's Decree on the Ministry and Life of the Priest (Presbyterorum ordinis) has this to say about the charism of celibacy which priests in the Western Church (and some of the priests in the Eastern Church as well) are called to live:

16. (Celibacy is to be embraced and esteemed as a gift). Perfect and perpetual continence for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven, commended by Christ the Lord(33) and through the course of time as well as in our own days freely accepted and observed in a praiseworthy manner by many of the faithful, is held by the Church to be of great value in a special manner for the priestly life. It is at the same time a sign and a stimulus for pastoral charity and a special source of spiritual fecundity in the world.(34) Indeed, it is not demanded by the very nature of the priesthood, as is apparent from the practice of the early Church(35) and from the traditions of the Eastern Churches. where, besides those who with all the bishops, by a gift of grace, choose to observe celibacy, there are also married priests of highest merit. This holy synod, while it commends ecclesiastical celibacy, in no way intends to alter that different discipline which legitimately flourishes in the Eastern Churches. It permanently exhorts all those who have received the priesthood and marriage to persevere in their holy vocation so that they may fully and generously continue to expend themselves for the sake of the flock commended to them.(36)

Indeed, celibacy has a many-faceted suitability for the priesthood. For the whole priestly mission is dedicated to the service of a new humanity which Christ, the victor over death, has aroused through his Spirit in the world and which has its origin "not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man but of God (Jn 1:13). Through virginity, then, or celibacy observed for the Kingdom of Heaven,(37) priests are consecrated to Christ by a new and exceptional reason. They adhere to him more easily with an undivided heart,(38) they dedicate themselves more freely in him and through him to the service of God and men, and they more expeditiously minister to his Kingdom and the work of heavenly regeneration, and thus they are apt to accept, in a broad sense, paternity in Christ. In this way they profess themselves before men as willing to be dedicated to the office committed to them-namely, to commit themselves faithfully to one man and to show themselves as a chaste virgin for Christ(39) and thus to evoke the mysterious marriage established by Christ, and fully to be manifested in the future, in which the Church has Christ as her only Spouse.(40) They give, moreover, a living sign of the world to come, by a faith and charity already made present, in which the children of the resurrection neither marry nor take wives.(41)

For these reasons, based on the mystery of Christ and his mission, celibacy, which first was recommended to priests, later in the Latin Church was imposed upon all who were to be promoted to sacred orders. This legislation, pertaining to those who are destined for the priesthood, this holy synod again approves and confirms, fully trusting this gift of the Spirit so fitting for the priesthood of the New Testament, freely given by the Father, provided that those who participate in the priesthood of Christ through the sacrament of Orders-and also the whole Church-humbly and fervently pray for it. This sacred synod also exhorts all priests who, in following the example of Christ, freely receive sacred celibacy as a grace of God, that they magnanimously and wholeheartedly adhere to it, and that persevering faithfully in it, they may acknowledge this outstanding gift of the Father which is so openly praised and extolled by the Lord.(42) Let them keep before their eyes the great mysteries signified by it and fulfilled in it. Insofar as perfect continence is thought by many men to be impossible in our times, to that extent priests should all the more humbly and steadfastly pray with the Church for that grace of fidelity, which is never denied those who seek it, and use all the supernatural and natural aids available. They should especially seek, lest they omit them, the ascetical norms which have been proved by the experience of the Church and which are scarcely less necessary in the contemporary world. This holy synod asks not only priests but all the faithful that they might receive this precious gift of priestly celibacy in their hearts and ask of God that he will always bestow this gift upon his Church.

Further references which may be helpful to augment this reflection will be published soon.

Reflections on the theme of priesthood

2008-10-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of this week, I mentioned that among our illustrious group here in Victoria, we count not one but two of our three liaison bishops.

On Monday evening, His Excellency, the Most Reverend John Corriveau, OFM Cap., currently the Bishop of Nelson (BC) was invited to address the gathered assembly.

Since the theme of this year's gathering is Honouring our Priesthood: Where we meet God, we invited Bishop Corriveau to share some thoughts on the subject of priesthood today. Having served for many years as the Superior General of his Order, we were sure that he would have some good advise, and we were not wrong.

His Excellency has generously allowed us to reprint the text of his reflections, so here, in its entirety is the text of what he shared with us on Monday night:

Oh, by the way, his address is entitled 'Priesthood':

To celebrate the institution of the ministerial priesthood on Holy Thursday, the Church chooses the Trinitarian hymn from chapter one of the Book of Revelations:

“Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, who has made us into a kingdom, priests for his God and Father, to him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen.”

St. Bonaventure reminds us that God is a mystery of humble, self-diffusive goodness. Why humble? Because the turning of the Father toward the Son is the Father’s humility. Humility is not a quality of God, rather, humility is the essence of God as love According to Bonaventure, the one and same embrace of the Father which reaches out to the Son, reaches out to us as well. Even more, God bends low to embrace all of creation in humility. In Bonaventure’s view, the incarnation occurred not because of sin, but because of the overflowing, abundant and humble love of God. Trinitarian relationship breaks into time and history through the Incarnation and the Cross to become part of our human experience, and humility is its principle characteristic.

St. Francis saw with great spiritual clarity that the Feast of the Annunciation is not primarily about the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Feast of Christmas is not primarily about Jesus, but both celebrate the humble love of God, our Father. Francis writes that in the womb of the Virgin Mary, “this Word of the Father ... received the flesh of our human frailty.” [2LtF, 4 (Armstrong, I, p. 46)] In the incarnation, God reaches beyond divinity to embrace us in love.

Embracing the cross, Jesus mirrors the total self-giving love of the Father. As the Father bends low to embrace humanity in the incarnation – on the cross, Jesus reaches to embrace the Father in total, self-giving faith and love: “Father, into your hands I recommend my spirit.” (Lk 24:46) On the cross, Jesus reaches out in humble love to embrace our humanity even in the depths of sinfulness and alienation, he embraces our humanity caught up in the web of violence and betrayed and broken relationships. The cross is the infallible sign planted in history which indicates that no expression of our humanity is alien or separated from God’s redeeming love. An ancient icon of the Church shows Jesus rising to the Father holding Eve by one hand and Adam by the other. Jesus does not return to the Father alone, he bears all of humanity in his redeeming embrace. This total, self-giving love creates the Church. “(He) who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood ... has made us into a kingdom, priests for his God and Father.”

We are accustomed to the images of “the kingdom” to describe the Church, but Revelations adds the qualifier, “priests for his God and Father.” This qualifier takes deeper significance in the other readings of the Chrism Mass. The first reading of the Chrism Mass is Isaiah 61: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; He has sent me to bring glad tidings to the lowly.” (Is. 61: 1) Scripture commentaries point out that when Isaiah speaks of his mission to “the oppressed ... the brokenhearted ...captives ... prisoners”, he is not speaking about a social class! Rather, he is speaking about a religious group, those who are faithful and, because of their faithfulness, have been pushed to the margins of their society. Isaiah 61 signals a dramatic shift in the history of salvation: It is not the temple, it is not the sociological nation of Israel, but it is this faithful remnant of believers who will receive the presence of the Lord God and reveal that presence to the nations.

The gospel for the Chrism Mass is Jesus’ visit to the synagogue in Nazareth in Luke 4: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.” (Lk 4: 18). It is obvious that the church wishes us to interpret Luke 4 in light of Isaiah 61. Jesus mission to the poor is not that of a social reformer. He does not take the role of a zealot, marching at the head of an army of the disadvantaged demanding justice and vindication. Rather, He appealed to the deep yearning for God in all whom he met: Nicodemus, the rich young man, woman at Jacob’s well, the apostles and disciples, Zacchaeus and the woman who washes his feet. Jesus continues to reach out even when his appeal is met by hostility – scribes, pharisees – or cynical indifference – Pilate. His miracles touched the same yearning for God in the human heart – think of the woman suffering from haemorrhage: “If only I can touch his cloak, I shall get well” (Mt 9:21) – the Samaritan leper who returns to thank him – Bartimaeus, the blind beggar. Jesus assumes Isaiah’s mission to form a new people. Through his saving death and resurrection this scattered band of persons is transformed into a new people, his Church, “priests for his God and Father,” that is, signs of his healing, redeeming love for humanity, a hymn of praise for “his God and Father,” a ferment of change, a leaven capable of transforming a world of alienation and division:

“Peace be with you. ... As the Father has sent me, so I send you. ... If you forgive men’s sins, they are forgiven them; if you hold them bound, they are held bound.” (Jn 20: 21 - 23)

In the gospel of John, details are important. “He showed them his hands and his side.” (Jn 20: 20). Why does the glorified body of the resurrected Christ keep the ugly signs of the passion? Our world spends billions to wipe away physical imperfections! “He showed them his hands and his side” because they are signs and proof of his divinity! We see this at the beginning of chapter 20 of John. Peter and John run to the tomb. Peter enters first, he sees all of the signs that the resurrection of Jesus was not an improvised event! “He observed the wrappings on the ground and saw the piece of cloth which had covered the head ... rolled up in a place by itself.” (Jn 20:6-7). John very pointedly says nothing of Peter’s reaction. Why? Because Peter does not believe! When John enters, “He saw and believed.” (Jn 20: 8) Why did John believe while Peter did not? Because John stood beneath the cross. He witnessed the awesome redeeming love of the cross. It gave sense to the empty tomb. Only God loves like that. He showed them his hands and his side and then, “He breathed on them and said: Receive the Holy Spirit.” (Jn 20: 22). Through the Holy Spirit he entrusted to his Church the transforming power of his cross, that love which overcomes death itself. Again, details are important. “He breathed on them.” Scripture scholars refer us back to Genesis 2: “The Lord God formed man out of the clay of the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and so man became a living being.” (Gen 2:7). The Church, “priests for his God and Father” mediating the power of the Cross, bears within itself the power of bringing about a new creation.

According to Bonaventure, the one and same embrace of the Father which reaches out to the Son, reaches out to us as well. Therefore, just as Jesus is the “Word of the Father” made flesh, Bonaventure speaks of the human person as the “little word” of the Father. When that “little word” is spoken in and through our lives, God is made visible in the world. Does not the imagery of Bonaventure help us to understand our priesthood? Jesus is the one high priest, anointed to bring good news to the poor, to form a new people, “priests for his God and Father.” But we, too, have been anointed in our priestly ordination. In our priestly ordination, Jesus breathed on us and imparted to us his Holy Spirit, the power of his cross for the transformation of the world. To insert ourselves again into the imagery of Bonaventure, we are God’s “little words” anointed to form a new people, “priests for his God and Father”, through the power of the cross.

We return again to the Holy Thursday readings. It is significant that the Church turns to Chapter 13 of the gospel of John to commemorate the Mass of the Lord’s Supper because John, better than all other gospels, brings together Eucharist and Priesthood. The first 12 chapters of John’s Gospel highlight two important images: life and light. From Chapter 13 onward, love dominates. Two symbols bring love alive: the cross and the washing of feet. Commentaries tell us that these symbols are really one. In the washing of feet, John is teaching the Church how to bring the saving power of the cross to the world. The cross is saving power. By washing feet, the Church releases this saving power to the world. The meaning is all the more clear as Peter says to Jesus: “You will never wash my feet,” to which Jesus replies: “Unless I wash you, you have no share with me” (Jn 13:8). If the Church does not wash the feet of the world, the world will never understand the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross is understood and experienced through service. The Gospel of John (13:13) presents Jesus as the head, “the Lord and Master,” who bends low to wash the feet of others. As Jesus himself indicates in the Gospel of John, he was never more head of the Church than when he was washing feet. The priest is never more “other Christ” than in his acts of service and love. The mandatum has to be more than a liturgical gesture.

In John’s Gospel, imagery is very important. Jesus rises from the table and takes off his outer robe. This act symbolizes the stripping away of all signs of privilege and dominating power. In the same way, we must strip ourselves of every vestige of clerical privilege and domination in order to present the face of priestly service to the world. There is little need for us today to “take off the outer robe” of clerical privilege! That has already been done for us by the secular society in which we live. The secular world in which we live places full trust in its technologies as the principle instruments of human liberation. Technologies – products of our own human genius – contain within themselves all that is necessary to realize full human autonomy. God is not necessary. We are “omnipotent”! Religion is relegated to the realm of personal myth. Our world seeks to build a new humanism with no reference to God. The events of recent weeks expose the achilles heel of secularism. In secularism, the economy ultimately guarantees its goal, namely, full human autonomy. But our secular society is founded on an economy of greed which is far from egalitarian! The events of recent weeks confirm anew that the demon sin continues to confound the towers of Babel which our arrogance has sought to construct from the time of Genesis. In order to form his kingdom, “priests for his God and Father”, in this world, w e do not have to take off the outer robe of priestly privilege. However, we must constantly confront the desire to dominate which is endemic to the world in which we live. Paul reminds us, “Your attitude must be that of Christ (who) ... humbled himself, obediently accepting even ...death on a cross.” (Phil. 2: 5-6, 8) Contemplating Jesus in the mystery of the Eucharist and the Cross, our life and service becomes the “little word” which reaches out to those emarginated by the consumerism and greed of our world, those seeking the experience of God which only the selfless love of the cross can reveal. A priesthood modelled on the humble Christ builds a kingdom, “priests for his God and Father”, in our secular world. For only a humble Church can impart salvation to an arrogant world.

Healing presence

2008-10-22T23:52:00.000-07:00

Today's schedule began with the celebration of Mass. The scripture readings for today proved to be extremely providential for the time that would lay before us during this day.

His Excellency, Richard Grecco, Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto presided at the Mass this morning, and provided a wonderful reflection on the scripture readings proper to this day. In particular, he focused on the fact that the word 'mystery' is mentioned repeatedly during the first reading from the letter to the Ephesians. From here, he invited us to reflect upon the reality that who we are as priests, and the work we do in living out the gift of our priesthood is not at all about earthly measures of success, but rather the living out of a mystery which is revealed to us as a gift from God himself. All we can do is to participate in this mystery - a reality which calls us to serve generously and at the same time challenges us to be rooted in faith and the truth of the gospel as we call God's people to follow in the footsteps of the Master.

Today was a day for looking backward and forward, and for giving thanks. As it turned out, today was about effecting healing, but more about that later in this post.

The mid-week day follows a somewhat different schedule from the rest of our normal pace during the NFPC National Assembly. Following the completion of the Mass, we moved into a working session during which Father Brennan (the same speaker who led yesterday's reflections) facilitated a discussion among the gathered representatives aimed at evaluating our present mandate. This morning was about asking the question, 'are we truly responding to the needs of the Church in Canada today?'

For the past number of years, the NFPC has continued to do some very good work, particularly in the field of providing resources to assist in the well-being of priests. There comes a time in the life of all healthy organizations when we must revisit the aims and purposes for our existence and honestly ask ourselves if we are responding to the original expectations or whether the perceived needs have changed due to other factors in the modern-day situation.

We therefore began the session by prayerfully considering the words of the NFPC's vision statement, and asking ourselves if we are still comfortable with this wording in the light of the realities faced by the priests in Canada today. Then we reviewed the 'blessed history', the story of our beginnings as well as the major twists and turns along the road of faith that has brought us to this moment. This latter exercise was helpful both for newcomers (a fair number of the delegates who are here in Victoria have only been involved with the NFPC for a very short time) and for veterans alike.

Having reviewed both our lived history and the wording of the vision statement, we then spent a considerable amount of time revisiting the effectiveness of our work and asking the necessary questions so that we might begin to assess our own effectiveness in terms of reaching the goals set forth in the vision statement.

This is hard work, and it needs time to mature and percolate in the minds and hearts of our members so that the truth about where we need to concentrate our efforts in the coming days, weeks and months will be made clear.

Thankfully, we had only scheduled a morning of work on this topic for the day - each of us needed to unwind after this intensive but necessary exercise. It was therefore a blessing that the schedule permitted an afternoon and evening off from the regular routine of the week. Many of us took advantage of the afternoon (and some the evening as well) to enjoy the sights and sounds of this charming city.

As fate (or provindence) would allow, a few of us found our way to a well-known local eatery tonight which has existed for more years than many of us would like to count. In addition to the neighbourhood feel of the restaurant - one not unlike what I picture the fictitious Cheers bar must have been like - we were also treated to a soul-filled concert of music which made our hearts sing.

The Jewish tradition believes strongly in the principle of mitzvah, that is the understanding that often without knowing or realizing it, we partake in doing good or providing a healing experience for someone else. The fact that someone participates in a mitzvah also becomes a blessing for the one who unknowingly participates.

All we wanted to do tonight was visit a local eatery and enjoy a wonderful evening. As it turns out, we were to participate in a mitzvah which was meant to heal the souls of those who had this morning taken part in a very difficult moment in our history, revisiting some key reasons for the existence of the NFPC. We also were thanked for providing a blessing to the unknowing participants who were present tonight to provide live entertainment for the restaurant patrons.

One of the things I cherish about my involvement with the NFPC is the fact that those who sit at our table are keenly aware of the joys and struggles of the clergy in this country, and our thirst for healing, both in our own lives and in the lives of those we serve. Tonight was a living example of healing lived out for the benefit of those who had experienced a day filled with challenges and many blessings, and the best part of it is that in the end, unknowingly, our 'elder brothers in faith' played a part in the healing process. If only such moments were more abundant, perhaps we would be that much further along the path of dialogue with others, benefiting from their wisdom, and sharing our own.

For the gift of being able to participate in the mystery of God which constantly surrounds us, we stand in awe and give thanks.

God moments

2008-10-21T22:48:00.000-07:00

On the first full day of meetings, the NFPC diocesan representatives were invited to reflect on the meaning of our theme - Honouring our Priesthood: Where We Meet God. We are grateful to Father Bill Brennan, a priest of the Diocese of Saint John (NB) for accepting our invitation to help us unpack this theme and begin to reflect on the 'God moments' in our lives.

Bill is well known to many of those who have worked with the NFPC for the past number of years. He currently resides in Woodstock (NB) and is pastor of Saint Gertrude's parish in that locale. Having devoted many years to the discipline of spiritual direction and specifically to spirituality of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Bill is well suited to address the challenge of finding God in the ordinary and sometimes not so ordinary moments of our day.

With his characteristic practicality and with both feet firmly planted on the ground, Bill spoke his personal truth of struggling at times to name the moments in his life when he is privileged to know that God is indeed very present. These moments are different for each priest, indeed for every person, but the truth is that sometimes we are so caught up in the fast pace of life that we miss the moment and must take time to allow these grace moments to catch up with the rest of our bodies, souls and psyches.

Using a series of scriptural references, he invited those present to explore the various seasons of the liturgical year as particular moments when we might be especially sensitive to the presence of God, and the many various ways that this divine presence is made known to us.

We often can find God in the very ordinary, sometimes mundane routines of our lives, if we have the eyes to see and the willingness to look. God is present to us in the anticipatory moments (Advent) as well as the birthing experiences (Christmas) of our lives. We can often identify the hand of God as being present in the sufferings (Lent) and joys (Easter) of our ministry, and we can even find God in the regular routines (Ordinary Time) of our lives. Like the treasure which is hidden in a field, God waits for us to discover the treasure which is beyond all price, the treasure which we are willing to sacrifice everything in order to obtain.

***
Conscious of the need to care for our environment, participants at this year's NFPC National Assembly are going green. Each delegate received a coffee mug, a gift from the Island Catholic Schools, which we are encouraged to use during our stay here in Victoria. This is only one of a number of details which have definitely not been overlooked in an effort to make all of us most welcome here on Canada's West coast.

***
One of the highlights of this afternoon's activities included the presentation of the NFPC's newest publication. Having published Reflections on Priesthood (2001) and Priestly Wellness (2004), the NFPC now adds the third publication to the public domain. This newest work is entitled The Priest as Servant Leader: Developing Values for Priestly Ministry.

All diocesan delegates who are present here in Victoria received copies of this document today. In the days, weeks and months following their return home at the end of this week, they will be invited to share this publication with the bishops, Presbyteral Councils and priests of their particular dioceses and eparchies.

Priestly Values has been four years in the making. If the sales of Priestly Wellness are any indication, this document too is destined to be on the best seller list of resources meant to help priests to reflect and understand our roles as servants called to model the life of faith for God's holy people.

Stay tuned ... more updates are coming soon.

From near and far

2008-10-20T22:46:00.000-07:00

Priests from English-speaking dioceses across Canada are in Victoria (BC) this week for their annual National Assembly, fondly dubbed VANFPCBO 2008 (that's Victoria's Annual National Federation of Presbyteral Councils Blow Out 2008).

Some of the participants have been here for a few days now, but many of them arrived overnight or through the hours of today, lugging baggage behind them, but eager to be here nonetheless. New friends and old are rekindling relationships and beginning to share with one another the stories which are often told when people who don't often get the chance to spend time together actually get to spend time together.

There are quite a few new participants at this gathering, and therefore a brief orientation session was held in order to familiarize our newest members with some of the nuts and bolts about how the Federation is organized, our objectives and how each diocesan representative fits into the big picture.

The NFPC is made up of one delegate from each English-speaking or bilingual diocese and eparchy across the country. These representatives are chosen by their bishops from among the membership of the Presbyteral Council, a consultative body which exists in all dioceses and eparchies. Members meet face to face on two separate occasions each year: at the National Assembly, typically held in the autumn, and at regional gatherings, usually conducted in the spring.

This week, we will do some very worthwhile work, but we will also take time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the amazing hospitality which is typical of this part of our country. Enthusiasm and hospitality have already made their mark, including the eco-friendly mugs which were presented to each participant upon our arrival, and individually decorated goodie bags which were prepared for us courtesy of some Grade 2 students.

Following the orientation sessions, the entire assembly got right down to work. The first order of business was a series of regional meetings which allow us to begin discussions of regional concerns, the things which often seem insignificant at first glance, but which can often help the Federation to discover the joys and struggles of priests today in a very personal way.

The theme for this year's National Assembly is Honouring our Preisthood: Where We Meet God. In the first of a series of input sessions, held this evening, His Excellency, John Corriveau, OFM Cap., the current Bishop of Nelson (BC) shared with us some of his wisdom about where priests today meet God. Drawing upon the wisdom of his Franciscan heritage, Bishop Corriveau invited us to reflect on the call for the Church to dare to be counter-cultural.

'The Church needs to be present in the world,' he says, 'always ready to imitate Jesus in washing the feet of those who we meet, but the world will not understand the significance of having feet washed unless they are also encouraged to gather at the foot of the cross and experience the truth of Jesus' redemptive act'. The Church needs to speak boldly to a society which defines itself in terms of technological advancements, calling it to learn anew how to spend time caring for each other. In most cases, we must do this one person at a time, but only in caring for one another will we be able to model the life of commitment that Jesus calls us to live.

The NFPC National Assembly continues until Friday of this week. Other updates will be posted here throughout the week.

Inheritance

2008-10-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

For the time being, all those participating in Lectio Divina should follow the process outlined just a few days ago. I'll post new passages for you to pray with, and leave it up to you to share the fruit of your reflection if you wish.

For today, look up Ephesians 1:11-14.

Ask Saint Ignatius of Antioch to pray with you, and spend some time pondering in God's presence about the inheritance that He has bequeathed for each of us.

Writing to the saints

2008-10-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is the first scriptural reference which may be used for Lectio Divina. Remember to set the scene by choosing a suitable place for your prayer, putting out a bible, and perhaps a candle, and finding a comfortable place to be seated.

Find the letter of Paul to the Ephesians 1:1-10

To make it easy, I've included an on-line version of this scripture passage, but feel free to use a bible if you have one handy. Follow the steps outlined in the blog article from yesterday, and try these questions to help you understand and situate the passage.

Paul addresses this passage to saints. Can I see myself as one of the saints to whom these words are spoken?

This passage speaks of God's plan for his people; a plan to redeem me, to forgive me and to shower grace upon me. How does this make me feel?

After you have completed the process, what were the highlights of this moment of prayer? What insights have been gained? For what are you thankful?

It's official

2008-10-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

How do you like this one ...

The practice of Lectio divina was discussed in the Vatican this past week as part of the Synod of Bishops which is currently taking place there. In fact, it was the Auxiliary Bishop of Valparaiso, Chile who made a very concrete presentation of this type of prayer to the Synod participants.

So in short, here's how it works, at least according to the Chilean experience:

1. Begin by preparing the environment where the prayer will take place. Specifically, an open Bible can be placed on a table and then prepare your heart, quieting yourself before God.

2. Next, call upon the Holy Spirit so that "as the Word was made a book," as in the experience of the first Christian community, so now "the book becomes Word".

3. Afterward, read a Bible passage and use prepared reflection questions to go deeper in the understanding of the text.

4. The fourth step involves actually reading the text. If there is a group of people present, one of them proclaims the Biblical text. Following the proclamation it is fitting to observe a moment of silence so that each participant can personally reflect.

Participants would then be encouraged to annotate the passage, using, for example, question marks beside passages that seem more difficult to understand and underlining verses they consider particularly important.

Thus, each person can discover the key points of the passage, or aids for understanding the passage can be offered.

Then read the passage again, marking it this time with exclamation points beside those verses that invite certain actions or changes of attitudes.

With an asterisk, mark those passages that help you to pray.

5. Then move on to meditation, following the exclamation points. As an aid, ask questions that apply to your life.

6. Next, begin to pray, using the asterisks -- to pray from and with the word of God and what has been lived in the encounter with the Word, that is, with Christ.

7. Finally, take time for contemplation, aided by silence or music. What is important, is that "Jesus takes hold of me, looks at me and I at him, an exchange of gazes."

Thus, the participants move to the last stage, "action," writing a word (for example, dialogue or help) that indicates to them the path to follow and share.

Based on this format, I'll start posting some scriptural references tomorrow, and invite readers to take the time to follow these simple steps, either alone or with a group of people. It will be interesting to see what the fruits might be. Stay tuned.

Making it easy

2008-10-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I received an unexpected phone call. Now, let's be clear, most phone calls these days are 'unexpected' in one way or another, but this one truly held a surprise. On the other end of the line was a lady from Saint Francis Xavier University in Sydney, NS.

She had received my name from someone who lived in these parts, and who obviously thought enough of me to recommend that I might be able to help with the Continuing and Distance Education program at St.FX. 'Would I consider,' she wanted to know, 'acting as a local contact for students who are enrolled in the Diploma in Ministry program'.

Shortly after that conversation, I received a book entitled The Shack, and was told that it would be a REALLY good read. Right, I read it in a matter of days, something which, considering the fact that I seldom get enough time to sit tranquilly with a book these days, is saying something about how well written this book is.

If you've ever pondered questions like, 'How can I understand the Trinity', this book is for you. It explains in one of the most simple fashions such mysteries as building community, loving one another and teamwork.

Find a copy and have a read. It's worth it.

Getting to the point

2008-10-12T05:58:00.000-07:00

In the coming days ... and weeks, there will be two national elections held on this continent. This indeed is a rare occasion, and it has provided more than its fair share of fodder for the likes of the local and national media types.

Amid all the fuss and bother of rhetoric that is flying freely between the candidates for various ridings in Canada, and between the candidates for the office of President and Vice-President in the USA, it seems difficult at times, if not downright impossible to find the truth about what is really going on or what the real issues are.

What's really at stake? Why do we need to take our civic responsiblility seriously? What role does faith play in all this? Thanks to the folks at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Wilmington, Delaware, some answers to these questions are available, perhaps for a limited time, on their website. They have created a short video which is quite thought-provoking. Have a look, and please feel free to share your comments.

Speak and it shall appear

2008-09-19T12:08:00.001-07:00

In yesterday's post, I presented some of the recent goings-on in the world of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops who have recently applauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Sciences with regard to the conciences of health-care workers who are sometimes faced with decisions which can infringe on their sense of morality.

Call it fate, or even the hand of providence, but low and behold, I found an article in today's local paper which speaks to this very situation. The article is published by the Canadian Press and is entitled Keep religion out of practice, doctors warned. Here's a short exerpt:

The College of Physicians and Surgeons says doctors who bring their religious and moral beliefs into their medical practice will have to think twice about potential repercussions. The body that governs the province's doctors unanimously voted (yesterday) in favour of a policy that wil limit the right of doctors to refuse to provide medical treatment if it infringes on their
belief system.

Canada often refers to the United States of America as 'our neighbour to the south'. If this most recent development is any indication, at least in some aspects, these neighbours are gearing up for a difference of opinion.

When conscience matters

2008-09-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a press release this week, commending the work of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

“We strongly commend the Secretary (of the HHS) for publishing these proposed regulations,” the USCCB wrote. “For over three decades…, Congress has sought to ensure that health care institutions and professionals will not have to choose between abandoning medicine and violating their conscience…. The proposed regulations would implement these longstanding federal statutory protections, and thus help guarantee that health care institutions and professionals are not pushed into this Hobson’s choice,” where one is forced to go against one’s conscience or leave the practice of medicine.

The HHS issued the regulations to protect the right of conscience for those involved in the health care field as of August 21 of this year, and the bishops of the United States were quick to publish their praise for the guidelines.

Prior to the August date, while the issue of rights of conscience for medical care workers was being debated in the U.S. Congress, Justin Cardinal Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Chair of the USCCB Committee for Pro-Life Activities addressed his concerns to the members of the Congress.

What of the situation in other countries?

Pensés about Paris ... and points beyond

2008-09-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

The Holy Father returned from his apostolic visit to France just a few days ago. This morning, during the weekly General Audience, he reflected in a spirit of gratitude with the pilgrims who were gathered in Saint Peter's Square about his voyage and about the faith he encountered while he was there.

Here's a snippet from the text of his speech from this morning:

Our encounter today gives me the opportunity to retrace the
steps of my recent Pastoral Visit to France. After a warm welcome in Paris, I
met with men and women from the world of culture, with whom I reflected on the
monastic ideal of seeking God—quaerere Deum—as the bedrock of European culture. I wished to emphasize that meditation on the Scriptures opens our minds and hearts to the Logos, God’s Creative Reason in the flesh. In the magnificent
Cathedral of Notre-Dame, I gathered with bishops, priests, religious and
seminarians, sharing with them the treasures of the Holy Spirit and the Cross.
My brief stop at the Institut de France was followed by the joyful Eucharistic
celebration on the Esplanade des Invalides. I then made my way to Lourdes to
join thousands of pilgrims in this Jubilee year commemorating the apparitions of
Our Lady to Saint Bernadette. The Holy Mass near the Grotto of Massabielle
providentially coincided with the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, the
perennial sign of the "mystery of death and of glory". The Cross demonstrates
that God so loved the world that he gave us his only Son. It teaches us that
there is no genuine love without suffering, and no gift of life without pain.
Lourdes is thus a school of faith and hope because it is a school of charity and
service. I am deeply grateful to God and to all who made this trip a blessed,
memorable success. Thank you!

In case you're interested, an entire list of the texts of the Holy Father's speeches and greetings during his voyage in France is also available. Happy reading!

Reading scripture online

2008-09-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

Call this the week for me to catch up with what's going on around town, or in the internet society, around this part of the world.

A few weeks ago, the CCCB re-issued one of it's most popular resources entitled The Word of God in Scripture. The first issue of this resource was published in 1999, and stocks have now been depleated. This 20-page guide which helps Catholics to read and interpret the bible has been reissued but this time it's available on-line so the user can print his-her own copy right from the comfort of home.

The Word of God in Scripture begins by showing the importance and place of the written Word of God in the whole of Christian life. It presents the conditions for fruitful reading of the Bible, suggests a plan to follow, and offers a list of tools for deeper study. Finally, the guide offers some criteria for interpreting the Bible. 'The words of the Bible are indivisibly both the Word of God and human words that are directed toward faith, and are to be understood in the community of the living Church,' the guide indicates.

More information about this guide is available on the website of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Discernment at the heart

2008-09-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago, the Prime Minister of Canada visited the Governor General, asking her to disolve the sitting federal parliament, and effectively kicking off the campaign which will lead Canadians to the polls on October 14 of this year.

For many years now, the bishops of Canada have issued documents at times such as these which they hope will act as guides to make people aware of the issues at hand, and sharpen our awareness of how to ask the proper questions. The guidance given by the bishops is not aimed at persuading individual voters to elect particular individuals but rather at making Catholics aware of the questions that need to be asked and to encourage Catholics to voice their concerns with political candidates.

The Federal Election 2008 Guide lists some basic moral principles from Catholic moral teaching to help voters examine and evaluate public policy and programs.

More information can be found on the website of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Visiting anew

2008-09-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Holy Father left Rome yesterday and travelled to France where he will be present for four days to mark the 150th Anniversary of the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin at Lourdes. This apostolic journey is his first to France so he met with government dignitaries upon his arrival yesterday. In addition, he met with young people last night in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Today, his visits will include the Institut de France, Mass at the Esplanade des Invalides (Paris) and a torchlight procession in Rosary Square in Lourdes.

A full list of the various meetings and encounters during the Holy Father's visit to France is posted on the Vatican website.

Love and young couples

2008-09-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

What can young committed couples do that will best enhance their love for one another? In a culture where many are turning away from the tradition of Marriage, the Theology Commission of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has recently published a pastoral message entitled What Does Marriage Add to Your Love which encourages couples to re-examine the Sacrament of Marriage as a viable option.

'We wish to encourage and support you in your search to fulfill your deepest
desires and find happiness. We suggest some thoughts for your reflection,
and share some insights on Christian marriage that have been offered by other
couples engaged on the same journey'.

The bishops of Canada have thus continued to teach about this very important subject, especially considering that many in some parts of Canada have been steadily drawn away from the teachings of the Church over the past number of decades. The work of evangelization in such a culture is increasingly challenging, but there is still evidence of hope, especially among those who seek answers to the questions of life. They may not always look to the Church for guidance, but indirectly, they can be referred to the beauty of our tradition, a story that is still alive and available to us.

Sydney to Synod

2008-09-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

In October of this year, there will be a gathering of the Synod of Bishops in Rome to discuss The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church. In anticipation of this gathering, a working document has been distributed to all Conferences of Bishops throughout the world, and through them to all participating bishops.

Today in Rome, the Holy Father appointed Sydney (Australia) Archbishop George Pell as president delegate of the Twelfth Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. As such, Cardinal Pell will preside in the Holy Father's name over the proceedings of the Synod which will take place next month.

In the Latin Church, Synods are periodic gatherings of bishops called together to meet in Rome to confer on some major subject of importance to the life of the Church. It is perhaps fitting that during the Year of Saint Paul which we are currently observing, the Synod should focus on the Word of God.

I'm sure there will be more to talk about in this respect before long.

50 days later

2008-09-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Many innovations were introduced during the recent celebration of World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia including an online community known as XT3 (which stands for Christ in the third millennium). This communication tool is enjoying great success, providing a very efficient way to keep contacts up to date with one another long after the memories of the international festival held down under have begun to fade.

Today, as part of the celebrations of the Feast of Mary's birthday, the Holy Father himself sent a message to all registered users of the XT3 system. The Vatican has long been known for it's advanced knowledge of various communication media, and Benedict XVI is certainly making great strides to keep up with the technological era.

As the Church celebrates major feasts, it is somewhat customary that the 50th day following some of these feasts like Christmas and Easter are marked by other related feasts. Today marks 50 days since the conclusion of the World Youth Day festivities which were held in Sydney in July of this year. The Holy Father's message to youth calls for them to remember the gathering down under, but also asks them to pray for the success of his upcoming travel to France. Here, have a read and see what you think:

Dear Friends,

Fifty days ago we were together for the celebration of Mass.
Today I greet you on the birthday of Mary, Mother of the Church.
Empowered by the Spirit and courageous like Mary, your pilgrimage of faith
fills the Church with life!
Soon I am to visit France.
I ask you all to join me in praying for the young people of France.
May we all be rejuvenated in hope!

BXVI

Some of the participants in Sydney were only teenagers. Imagine what a boost to their faith it must be to receive a message from the Holy Father, inviting them to pray for other youth who are also seeking truth and guidance in their faith. Cudos to you B16!

Coming soon

2008-09-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

As has become the custom over the past number of weeks, months and years, the texts of my homilies are published each week for the convenience of those who would rather read them than listen to them, or for those who for one reason or another cannot be present when these reflections are spoken at the Sunday liturgies.

After more than a year of posting the podcasts of these homilies as well as the texts, there was a technical glitch that stopped me from posting any new recordings of homilies, but I'm happy to tell you that finally this stumbling block seems to have been resolved. In the coming days, the weekly homilies will be available once again for your listening pleasure. I trust that many will be able to tune in, that this additional service will bear much fruit, and that the word of God will thus be spread far beyond the limits of the walls, pews and space of the venerable building where they are spoken live each week.

Remembering Mother

2008-09-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

September 5th marks the day of remembrance in honor of one of the modern-day heros. Millions of people knew her, and the work she did seemingly tirelessly in the streets of India and throughout the world. Untold stories are recounted of her gentle but persistent nature and the unrelenting spirit that kept her going each day.

'Who is this miracle worker', you may ask; none other than Blessed Teresa of Calcutta. 'Mother' as she was known to the Sisters of Charity, found her strength in the hour of prayer she observed every morning, in the pre-dawn darkness. From first light, she moved untiringly through the streets of Calcutta seeking out the poorest of the poor, always seeking to provide them with at least a modicum of dignity and respect.

I'm not the only one to write about Mother Teresa today. In fact I wouldn't be surprised at all that there would be more than a little ink spilled in remembrance of her example of incarnating gospel values which continues to inspire so many today.

Setting out

2008-09-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

The theme of new beginnings seems to be all round us. Not only children are starting new routines this week, but their parents also have to reaquaint themselves with the process of waking little ones, preparing them for the day ahead, getting them to their intended destinations ... and so much more.

This is also a time for discussion and vision about priorities that need to be set. Whether this happens around a table, in a boardroom, in a car while we frantically race from one place to another, or on the shores of a nearby lake as we soak in the summer weather which we know won't be around for too much longer, all of us need to take a moment to set course.

How fitting that the gospel passage proposed for today should speak of setting out into the deep. In the early days of this millenium, the Holy Father, John Paul II encouraged us all, with the words of today's gospel, to go into deep water. The Apostolic Letter which was published on the Feast of the Epiphany 2001 was entitled Novo Millenio Ineunte (At the beginning of the new millenium). Characteristic of his pastoral style, he called all faithful to accept this new beginning with abandon, to embrace it as a gift from the Lord, and to discover the riches that Jesus revealed to the fishermen on the shore of the Sea of Geneseret when he called them to 'put out into the deep'.

All is new again

2008-09-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

Tradition in the northern hemisphere says that school starts during the week after Labour Day. Here we are. In most school boards across the province, yesterday was actually the first day of classes for elementary and high school students, and university lectures also begin this week. Students in the Sudbury Catholic District School Board hit the books this morning. Having attended a Professional Activity day yesterday, teachers and support staff welcome their new recruits and returning children today.

Thus begins what will be a series of months of learning for all involved. What wisdom will be discovered? What experiences will be lived? Who will be there to inspire these youngsters? Who will walk beside them, helping them to overcome challenges and take advantage of opportunities that are yet to be discovered.

Just a few weeks ago, I offered some other musings on the subject of teachers and students. Check them out; they may inspire just a bit of fun, imagination and who knows what other surprises.

South of the border

2008-08-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

Saint Augustine, whose feast day was celebrated yesterday believed that while we are all citizens of various countries on this earth, all christians, all people of faith and hope are citizens of the City of God. As such, we are people who can hope when hope seems the furthest from the truth dictated by all other logic.

People who are citizens of the City of God must live in our respective countries on earth, conscious of what's going on around us, but must also be brave enough to see the doings and mis-doings of this world through the eyes of faith. As such, we need to be aware of things like political campaigns and not be afraid to venture into the arena of questioning the promises that are made.

As most people in the global village are now aware, there is a race going on south of the Canadian border even as we speak. The prize is a coveted place on Pensylvania Avenue, and an awesome responsibility for the care of the people who call the United States of America their country of residence, their country of citizenship, their home. Even for those who are not part of the immediate fabric of that social network, it would be naive to ignore the drama that is unfolding: promises as well as challenges.

All through this week, the Democratic National Convention has been underway in Denver. After major speeches delivered by such high profile people as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, President Bill Clinton and former rival Senator Hillary Roddam-Clinton, it was Barack Obama himself who came to the podium to deliver his acceptance speech. On the anniversary of the famous 'I had a dream' speech delivered by Martin Luther King, Mr. Obama dared to invite the American public to dream a different kind of dream.

For those who are interested, here's the video coverage of the entire speech.

Oh, and for those who prefer to read the text, here's the printed word:

To Chairman Dean and my great friend Dick Durbin; and to all my fellow
citizens of this great nation;
With profound gratitude and great humility, I accept your nomination for the presidency of the United States.
Let me express my thanks to the historic slate of candidates who accompanied me on this journey, and especially the one who traveled the farthest - a champion for
working Americans and an inspiration to my daughters and to yours -- Hillary
Rodham Clinton. To President Clinton, who last night made the case for change as
only he can make it; to Ted Kennedy, who embodies the spirit of service; and to
the next Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden, I thank you. I am
grateful to finish this journey with one of the finest statesmen of our time, a
man at ease with everyone from world leaders to the conductors on the Amtrak
train he still takes home every night.
To the love of my life, our next First Lady, Michelle Obama, and to Sasha and Malia - I love you so much, and I'm so proud of all of you.
Four years ago, I stood before you and told you my story - of the brief union between a young man from Kenya and a young woman from Kansas who weren't well-off or well-known, but shared a belief that in America, their son could achieve whatever he put his mind to.
It is that promise that has always set this country apart - that through hard work and sacrifice, each of us can pursue our individual dreams but still come together as one American family, to ensure that the next generation can pursue their dreams as well.
That's why I stand here tonight. Because for two hundred and thirty two
years, at each moment when that promise was in jeopardy, ordinary men and women - students and soldiers, farmers and teachers, nurses and janitors -- found the courage to keep it alive.
We meet at one of those defining moments - a moment when our nation is at war, our economy is in turmoil, and the American promise has been threatened once more.
Tonight, more Americans are out of work and more are working harder for less. More of you have lost your homes and even more are watching your home values plummet. More of you have cars you can't afford to drive, credit card bills you can't afford to pay, and tuition that's beyond your reach.
These challenges are not all of government's making. But the failure to respond is a direct result of a broken politics in Washington and the failed policies of George W. Bush.
America, we are better than these last eight years. We are a better country than this. This country is more decent than one where a woman in Ohio, on the brink of retirement, finds herself one illness away from disaster after a lifetime of hard work. This country is more generous than one where a man in Indiana has to pack up the equipment he's worked on for twenty years and watch it shipped off to China, and then chokes up as he explains how he felt like a failure when he went home to tell his family the news.
We are more compassionate than a government that lets veterans sleep on our streets and families slide into poverty; that sits on its hands while a major American city drowns before our eyes.
Tonight, I say to the American people, to Democrats and Republicans and Independents across this great land - enough! This moment - this election - is our chance to keep, in the 21st century, the American promise alive. Because next week, in Minnesota, the same party that brought you two terms of George Bush and Dick Cheney will ask this country for a third. And we are here because we love this country too much to let the next four years look like the last eight. On November 4th, we must stand up and say: "Eight is enough."
Now let there be no doubt. The Republican nominee, John McCain, has worn the uniform of our country with bravery and distinction, and for that we owe him our gratitude and respect. And next week, we'll also hear about those occasions when he's broken with his party as evidence that he can deliver the change that we need. But the record's clear: John McCain has voted with George Bush ninety percent of the time. Senator McCain likes to talk about judgment, but really, what does it say about your judgment when you think George Bush has been right more than ninety percent of the time? I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to take a ten percent chance on change.
The truth is, on issue after issue that would make a difference in your lives - on health care and education and the economy - Senator McCain has been anything but independent. He said that our economy has made "great progress" under this President. He said that the fundamentals of the economy are strong. And when one of his chief advisors - the man who wrote his economic plan - was talking about the anxiety Americans are feeling, he said that we were just suffering from a "mental recession," and that we've become, and I quote, "a nation of whiners."
A nation of whiners? Tell that to the proud auto workers at a Michigan plant who, after they found out it was closing, kept showing up every day and working as hard as ever, because they knew there were people who counted on the brakes that they made. Tell that to the military families who shoulder their burdens silently as they watch their loved ones leave for their third or fourth or fifth tour of duty. These are not whiners.
They work hard and give back and keep going without complaint. These are the
Americans that I know.
Now, I don't believe that Senator McCain doesn't care what's going on in the lives of Americans. I just think he doesn't know. Why else would he define middle-class as someone making under five million dollars a year? How else could he propose hundreds of billions in tax breaks for big corporations and oil companies but not one penny of tax relief to more than one hundred million Americans? How else could he offer a health care plan that would actually tax people's benefits, or an education plan that would do nothing to help families pay for college, or a plan that would privatize Social Security and gamble your retirement?
It's not because John McCain doesn't care. It's because John McCain doesn't get it.
For over two decades, he's subscribed to that old, discredited Republican philosophy - give more and more to those with the most and hope that prosperity trickles down to everyone else. In Washington, they call this the Ownership Society, but what it really means is - you're on your own. Out of work? Tough luck. No health care? The market will fix it. Born into poverty? Pull yourself up by your own bootstraps - even if you don't have boots. You're on your own.
Well it's time for them to own their failure.
It's time for us to change America.
You see, we Democrats have a very different measure of what constitutes progress in this country. We measure progress by how many people can find a job that pays the mortgage; whether you can put a little extra money away at the end of each month so you can someday watch your child receive her college diploma. We measure progress in the 23 million new jobs that were created when Bill Clinton was President - when the average American family saw its income go up $7,500 instead of down $2,000 like it has under George Bush.
We measure the strength of our economy not by the number of billionaires we have or the profits of the Fortune 500, but by whether someone with a good idea can take a risk and start a new business, or whether the waitress who lives on tips can take a day off to look after a sick kid without losing her job - an economy that honors the dignity of work.
The fundamentals we use to measure economic strength are whether we are living up to that fundamental promise that has made this country great - a promise that is the only reason I am standing here tonight.
Because in the faces of those young veterans who come back from Iraq and Afghanistan, I see my grandfather, who signed up after Pearl Harbor, marched in Patton's Army, and was rewarded by a grateful nation with the chance to go to college on the GI Bill.
In the face of that young student who sleeps just three hours before working the night shift, I think about my mom, who raised my sister and me on her own while she worked and earned her degree; who once turned to food stamps but was still able to send us to the best schools in the country with the help of student loans and
scholarships.
When I listen to another worker tell me that his factory has shut down, I remember all those men and women on the South Side of Chicago who I stood by and fought for two decades ago after the local steel plant closed.
And when I hear a woman talk about the difficulties of starting her own business, I think about my grandmother, who worked her way up from the secretarial pool to middle-management, despite years of being passed over for promotions because she was a woman. She's the one who taught me about hard work. She's the one who put off buying a new car or a new dress for herself so that I could have a better life. She poured everything she had into me. And although she can no longer travel, I know that she's watching tonight, and that tonight is her night as well.
I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine. These are my heroes. Theirs are the stories that shaped me. And it is on their behalf that I intend to win this election and keep our promise alive as President of the United States.
What is that promise?
It's a promise that says each of us has the freedom to make of our own lives what we will, but that we also have the obligation to treat each other with dignity and respect.
It's a promise that says the market should reward drive and innovation and generate growth, but that businesses should live up to their responsibilities to create American jobs, look out for American workers, and play by the rules of the road.
Ours is a promise that says government cannot solve all our problems, but what it should do is that which we cannot do for ourselves - protect us from harm and provide every child a decent education; keep our water clean and our toys safe; invest in new schools and new roads and new science and technology.
Our government should work for us, not against us. It should help us, not hurt us. It should ensure opportunity not just for those with the most money and influence, but for every American who's willing to work.
That's the promise of America - the idea that we are responsible for ourselves, but that we also rise or fall as one nation; the fundamental belief that I am my brother's keeper; I am my sister's keeper.
That's the promise we need to keep. That's the change we need right now. So let me spell out exactly what that change would mean if I am President. Change means a tax code that doesn't reward the lobbyists who wrote it, but the American workers and small businesses who deserve it.
Unlike John McCain, I will stop giving tax breaks to corporations that ship jobs overseas, and I will start giving them to companies that create good jobs right here in America.
I will eliminate capital gains taxes for the small businesses and the start-ups that will create the high-wage, high-tech jobs of tomorrow.
I will cut taxes - cut taxes - for 95% of all working families. Because in an
economy like this, the last thing we should do is raise taxes on the middle-class.
And for the sake of our economy, our security, and the future of our planet, I will set a clear goal as President: in ten years, we will finally end our dependence on oil from the Middle East.

Washington's been talking about our oil addiction for the last thirty years, and John McCain has been there for twenty-six of them. In that time, he's said no to higher fuel-efficiency standards for cars, no to investments in renewable energy, no to renewable fuels. And today, we import triple the amount of oil as the day that Senator McCain took office.
Now is the time to end this addiction, and to understand that drilling is a stop-gap measure, not a long-term solution. Not even close.
As President, I will tap our natural gas reserves, invest in clean coal technology, and find ways to safely harness nuclear power. I'll help our auto companies re-tool, so that the fuel-efficient cars of the future are built right here in America. I'll make it easier for the American people to afford these new cars. And I'll invest 150 billion dollars over the next decade in affordable, renewable sources of energy - wind power and solar power and the next generation of biofuels; an investment that will lead to new industries and five million new jobs that pay well and can't ever be outsourced.
America, now is not the time for small plans.
Now is the time to finally meet our moral obligation to provide every child a world-class education, because it will take nothing less to compete in the global economy.
Michelle and I are only here tonight because we were given a chance at an
education. And I will not settle for an America where some kids don't have that
chance. I'll invest in early childhood education. I'll recruit an army of new
teachers, and pay them higher salaries and give them more support. And in
exchange, I'll ask for higher standards and more accountability. And we will
keep our promise to every young American - if you commit to serving your
community or your country, we will make sure you can afford a college education.
Now is the time to finally keep the promise of affordable, accessible health
care for every single American. If you have health care, my plan will lower your
premiums. If you don't, you'll be able to get the same kind of coverage that
members of Congress give themselves. And as someone who watched my mother argue with insurance companies while she lay in bed dying of cancer, I will make
certain those companies stop discriminating against those who are sick and need
care the most.
Now is the time to help families with paid sick days and better family leave, because nobody in America should have to choose between keeping their jobs and caring for a sick child or ailing parent.
Now is the time to change our bankruptcy laws, so that your pensions are rotected ahead of CEO bonuses; and the time to protect Social Security for future generations.
And now is the time to keep the promise of equal pay for an equal day's work, because I want my daughters to have exactly the same opportunities as your
sons.
Now, many of these plans will cost money, which is why I've laid out how I'll pay for every dime - by closing corporate loopholes and tax havens that don't help America grow. But I will also go through the federal budget, line by line, eliminating programs that no longer work and making the ones we do need
work better and cost less - because we cannot meet twenty-first century
challenges with a twentieth century bureaucracy.
And Democrats, we must also admit that fulfilling America's promise will require more than just money. It will require a renewed sense of responsibility from each of us to recover what John F. Kennedy called our "intellectual and moral strength." Yes, government must lead on energy independence, but each of us must do our part to make our homes and businesses more efficient. Yes, we must provide more ladders to success for young men who fall into lives of crime and despair. But we must also admit that programs alone can't replace parents; that government can't turn off the television and make a child do her homework; that fathers must take more responsibility for providing the love and guidance their children need.
Individual responsibility and mutual responsibility - that's the essence of
America's promise.
And just as we keep our keep our promise to the next generation here at home, so must we keep America's promise abroad. If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament, and judgment, to serve as the next Commander-in-Chief, that's a debate I'm ready to have.
For while Senator McCain was turning his sights to Iraq just days after 9/11, I
stood up and opposed this war, knowing that it would distract us from the real
threats we face. When John McCain said we could just "muddle through" in
Afghanistan, I argued for more resources and more troops to finish the fight
against the terrorists who actually attacked us on 9/11, and made clear that we
must take out Osama bin Laden and his lieutenants if we have them in our sights.
John McCain likes to say that he'll follow bin Laden to the Gates of Hell - but
he won't even go to the cave where he lives.
And today, as my call for a time frame to remove our troops from Iraq has been echoed by the Iraqi government and even the Bush Administration, even after we learned that Iraq has a $79 billion surplus while we're wallowing in deficits, John McCain stands alone in his stubborn refusal to end a misguided war.
That's not the judgment we need. That won't keep America safe. We need a President who can face the threats of the future, not keep grasping at the ideas of the past.
You don't defeat a terrorist network that operates in eighty countries by occupying Iraq. You don't protect Israel and deter Iran just by talking tough in
Washington. You can't truly stand up for Georgia when you've strained our oldest
alliances. If John McCain wants to follow George Bush with more tough talk and
bad strategy, that is his choice - but it is not the change we need.
We are the party of Roosevelt. We are the party of Kennedy. So don't tell me that
Democrats won't defend this country. Don't tell me that Democrats won't keep us
safe. The Bush-McCain foreign policy has squandered the legacy that generations
of Americans -- Democrats and Republicans - have built, and we are here to
restore that legacy.
As Commander-in-Chief, I will never hesitate to defend this nation, but I will only send our troops into harm's way with a clear mission and a sacred commitment to give them the equipment they need in battle and the care and benefits they deserve when they come home.
I will end this war in Iraq responsibly, and finish the fight against al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. I will rebuild our military to meet future conflicts. But I will also renew the tough, direct diplomacy that can prevent Iran from obtaining
nuclear weapons and curb Russian aggression. I will build new partnerships to
defeat the threats of the 21st century: terrorism and nuclear proliferation;
poverty and genocide; climate change and disease. And I will restore our moral
standing, so that America is once again that last, best hope for all who are
called to the cause of freedom, who long for lives of peace, and who yearn for a
better future.
These are the policies I will pursue. And in the weeks ahead, I look forward to debating them with John McCain. But what I will not do is suggest that the Senator takes his positions for political purposes. Because one of the things that we have to change in our politics is the idea that people cannot disagree without challenging each other's character and patriotism.
The times are too serious, the stakes are too high for this same partisan playbook. So let us agree that patriotism has no party. I love this country, and so do you, and so does John McCain. The men and women who serve in our battlefields may be Democrats and Republicans and Independents, but they have fought together and bled together and some died together under the same proud flag. They have not served a Red America or a Blue America - they have served the United States of America.
So I've got news for you, John McCain. We all put our country first.
America, our work will not be easy. The challenges we face require tough choices, and Democrats as well as Republicans will need to cast off the worn-out ideas and politics of the past. For part of what has been lost these past eight years can't just be measured by lost wages or bigger trade deficits. What has also been lost is our sense of common purpose - our sense of higher purpose. And that's what we have to restore.
We may not agree on abortion, but surely we can agree on reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies in this country. The reality of gun ownership may be different for hunters in rural Ohio than for those plagued by gang-violence in Cleveland, but don't tell me we can't uphold the Second Amendment while keeping AK-47s out of the hands of criminals. I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination. Passions fly on immigration, but I don't know anyone who benefits when a mother is separated from her infant child or an employer undercuts American wages by hiring illegal workers. This too is part of America's promise - the promise of a democracy where we can find the strength and grace to bridge divides and unite in common effort.
I know there are those who dismiss such beliefs as happy talk. They claim that our insistence on something larger, something firmer and more honest in our public life is just a Trojan Horse for higher taxes and the abandonment of traditional values. And that's to be expected. Because if you don't have any fresh ideas, then you use stale tactics to scare the voters. If you don't have a record to run on, then you paint your opponent as someone people should run from.
You make a big election about small things.
And you know what - it's worked before. Because it feeds into the cynicism we all have about government. When Washington doesn't work, all its promises seem empty. If your hopes have been dashed again and again, then it's best to stop hoping, and settle for what you already know.
I get it. I realize that I am not the likeliest candidate for this office. I don't fit the typical pedigree, and I haven't spent my career in the halls of Washington.
But I stand before you tonight because all across America something is stirring. What the nay-sayers don't understand is that this election has never been about me. It's been about you.
For eighteen long months, you have stood up, one by one, and said enough to the politics of the past. You understand that in this election, the greatest risk we can take is to try the same old politics with the same old players and expect a different result. You have shown what history teaches us - that at defining moments like this one, the change we need doesn't come from Washington. Change comes to Washington. Change happens because the American people demand it - because they rise up and insist on new ideas and new leadership, a new politics for a new time.
America, this is one of those moments.
I believe that as hard as it will be, the change we need is coming. Because I've seen it. Because I've lived it. I've seen it in Illinois, when we provided health care to more children and moved more families from welfare to work. I've seen it in Washington, when we worked across party lines to open up government and hold lobbyists more accountable, to give better care for our veterans and keep nuclear weapons out of terrorist hands. And I've seen it in this campaign. In the young people who voted for the first time, and in those who got involved again after a very long time. In the Republicans who never thought they'd pick up a Democratic ballot, but did. I've seen it in the workers who would rather cut their hours back a day than see their friends lose their jobs, in the soldiers who re-enlist after losing a limb, in the good neighbors who take a stranger in when a hurricane strikes and the floodwaters rise.
This country of ours has more wealth than any nation, but that's not what makes us rich. We have the most powerful military on Earth, but that's not what makes us strong. Our universities and our culture are the envy of the world, but that's not what keeps the world coming to our shores.
Instead, it is that American spirit - that American promise - that pushes us forward even when the path is uncertain; that binds us together in spite of our differences; that makes us fix our eye not on what is seen, but what is unseen, that better place around the bend.
That promise is our greatest inheritance. It's a promise I make to my daughters when I tuck them in at night, and a promise that you make to yours - a promise that has led immigrants to cross oceans and pioneers to travel west; a promise that led workers to picket lines, and women to reach for the ballot.
And it is that promise that forty five years ago today, brought Americans from every corner of this land to stand together on a Mall in Washington, before Lincoln's Memorial, and hear a young preacher from Georgia speak of his dream.
The men and women who gathered there could've heard many things. They could've heard words of anger and discord. They could've been told to succumb to the fear and frustration of so many dreams deferred.
But what the people heard instead - people of every creed and color, from every walk of life - is that in America, our destiny is inextricably linked. That together,
our dreams can be one.
"We cannot walk alone," the preacher cried. "And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back." America, we cannot turn back. Not with so much work to be done. Not with so many children to educate, and so many veterans to care for. Not with an economy to fix and cities to rebuild and farms to save. Not with so many families to protect and so many lives to mend. America, we cannot turn back. We cannot walk alone. At this moment, in this election, we must pledge once more to march into the future. Let us keep that promise - that American promise - and in the words of Scripture hold firmly, without wavering, to the hope that we confess.
Thank you, God Bless you, and God Bless the United States of America.

Planning ahead

2008-08-22T08:46:00.001-07:00

August is almost over, so plans are getting into high gear for the months ahead. Actually I've not thought much about the routines of school visits and other facets which will no doubt come about at an alarming pace in the coming weeks. What I've been busy about is planning for some of the other events which will take place in September and October.

One of the things that has found its way into my calendar is the Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance of Canada (CDPAC) conference which will take place in late November. A few months ago, I submitted an abstract, proposing a presentation on the subject of the Beech Street Community Kitchen, and it was accepted.

The preliminary planning for this presentation took place this week, so in the coming weeks, I'll be working on the presentation which will be given during the conference. The third national CDPAC conference is scheduled to take place in Ottawa from November 24-26, 2008. The organizers are still working out all the details but there's a preliminary programme already available and those who wish to participate can register on-line using the CDPAC website.

This will be yet another first for me, and will provide an opportunity to spread the word about our parish outreach project to a much wider audience. The results of the first year have been absolutely wonderful. I can't wait to see what the next year will bring.

A pope at the closing ceremonies?

2008-08-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

While we're on the topic of the Olympics, on Wednesday of this week, His Excellency Giuseppe Li Shan, Archbishop of Beijing (China). While consideration of a papal visit to China is yet a bit premature, the director of the Vatican press office said today that the invitation is encouraging.

There has been more than a bit of discussion about the attendance of various heads of state at the Olympics, and just a whee bit of wondering about whether their presence in China might signal a hope for cultivating ties of friendship with the world's most populous country, but the Vatican has definite protocols in place for answering an invitation such as that which was issued during the interview that Archbishop Li Chan did this week with Italian public television.

The willingness of the Chinese authorities to welcome the pope would certainly signal progress toward his dream for the Chinese people, expressed in his recent letter to Catholics of that country. Whether such a visit will eventually come to pass is a matter of time, planning and lots of work yet to be done behind the scenes. Stay tuned.

Who's that girl ?

2008-08-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

One day after she tore up the track in Beijing, Pricilla sat with Ron McLean to speak about her experience of running the 110 m Women's Hurdles race yesterday. The person he met in the studio almost didn't resemble the one he saw on the track yesterday - at least from the point of view of intensity and concentration, but then again that's Priscilla.

After explaining her take on the experience of running in the final, she paid homage to her family and friends, and to her long-time coach for all the dedication and support she has received.

Coverage today in the local Toronto papers placed her on the front page, and rightly so. This is the first time since 1996 that Canada has won an Olympic medal in Track and Field, and this is the first time ever that Canada has won a medal in womens 110 m Hurdles.

It's a bronze

2008-08-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

It's been about a month since the World Youth Day festivities came to a close, and since that time I've been taking a hiatus from writing. Sometimes you need a shove to get back to the routines, and what better prodding than a bronze medal in the Olympics to get the mo-jo flowing?

Permit me to explain ...

More than ten years ago, my cousin Priscilla began participating in track and field meets at her high school in Whitby (Ontario, Canada). At the time, she wasn't sure whether she really could run hurdles, but with a bit of cajoling, she tried it and has never looked back.

Family and friends can tell you that she has developed quite a passion for hurdles. We all know her as 'the track star'. From the very humblest of beginnings - she ran her first track meet in regular tennis shoes because she didn't own cleats - she's continued to move up the proverbial ladder.

In 2004, she qualified to represent Canada at the Olympic Games held in Athens. Even though she didn't make it past the heats at the time, the experience was still a most invaluable one for her. Since that time, she's continued the hard work and this year she qualified to join the Canadian Olympic team in Beijing.

For years now, she's been the underdog, relatively unknown on the international stage, but the events of the past few days have changed all that in a heartbeat. On Sunday evening (7:00 pm Beijing time) she ran in Heat 2 of the qualifying rounds for the 100 m hurdles, and placed second behind Vonnette Dixon of Jamaica in a time of 12.75 seconds. This guaranteed her a spot in the semi-finals which were run on Monday evening.

In the first of two semi-final rounds, she placed third behind Lolo Jones of the USA and Delloreen Ennis-London of Jamaica in a time of 12.68 and therefore qualified to run in the finals which were held on Tuesday evening.

While her husband and coach watched from an off-track location within the Bird's Nest Stadium, family and friends watched the race unfold back home. Priscilla had told everyone that she was ready to shine, but no one was more elated than she herself to find that after a photo finish and almost five minutes of deliberations about the results, she had placed third and earned the 13th medal for Canada at the Beijing Olympics.

Here, see for yourself.

In 12.64 seconds, Priscilla went from a relative unknown to a national track star. Canada has not won a medal on the track since 1996 and has never won a medal in women's 100 m hurdles. Back home, no one was more proud of Priscilla than her parents and family who watched from their Whitby home as the race unfolded.

On the podium, after receiving her bronze medal, Priscilla jumped for joy ... WAY TO GO. Congratulations Priscilla.

Thanks for the memories

2008-07-21T00:31:00.000-07:00

This morning at 9:00 am local time, the Holy Father met with volunteers who had worked throughout this past week to facilitate the WYD activities. During his meeting his spoke words of thanks to all those who played a part in bringing the World Youth Day activities to fruition.

This meeting took place at the Domain, a property located not far from Saint Mary's Cathedral where the Holy Father has stayed for the past five days.

Texts of the Holy Father's parting greetings will be published in the coming days on the Vatican website

Following his meeting with the ecclesial authorities and the volunteers, his motorcade made its way to the airport where he met with civil authorities to speak words of thanks to all those who played a part in supporting World Youth Day before boarding the Qantas Airlines flight which is now bearing him and the 27 other members of his party, in company with about 50 journalists on their way back to Rome. The flight will make a stop in Darwin for refueling and then continue directly to Italy.

In the coming days, weeks, months and years, the fruits of this WYD gathering will become known in the lives of pilgrims who listened to the words and teachings of the Holy Father and other bishops who provided catechetical leadership; who participated in the various liturgies which were windows unto the sacred throughout this week; who met new friends, and discovered the call of Christ to pay heed to the presence of the Holy Spirit which empowers us all to live as his disciples.

We give thanks for all the blessings received in the words of the WYD2008 theme song: Alleluia, receive the power of the Holy Spirit; receive the power to be a light unto the world!

And finally

2008-07-20T23:05:00.000-07:00

For the past week, pilgrims from all parts of the globe have been in Sydney for the celebration of World Youth Day. Throughout this week, they have been learning about faith, celebrating with friends old and new, and catching glimpses of the Holy Father as he arrived on a boat in Sydney Harbour and travelled the streets of the CBD in the popemobile.

Having witnessed the Stations of the Cross on Friday afternoon, and walked the pilgrimage on Saturday, they spent the night sleeping in the Randwick Racecourse property. This morning, as the first rays of dawn chased the darkness away, a colourful array of sleeping bags began slowly to come to life, revealing the more than 200,000 pilgrims who were wrapped within them, protected from the chill of the night air. By 7:30 am, morning rituals and movements of the masses were in full swing. Priests moved through a myriad of baricades and pathways toward their assigned places for the concelebration of the papal Mass, and preparations for Morning Prayer were being finalized.

At 8:00 am, the recitation of Morning Prayer was led by a group of Australian seminarians, and it wasn't long after this that the helicoper bearing the Holy Father arrived in the skies above Randwick. In the meanwhile, Sydneysiders who had also arrived in the early morning hours swelled the group to approximately 300,000 for the much-awaited closing Mass.

After circling above the crowd, the Holy Father touched down just outside the racecourse and boarded the waiting popemobile which then bore him, accompanied by his private secretary and the Cardinal Archbishop of Sydney, through the waiting crowd. They made two complete rounds of the stadium before arriving in the sacristy and the Mass began (right on schedule) a few moments after 10:00 am. Within the context of this mass which focused on the theme of the Holy Spirit, twenty-four youngsters from all parts of the world were confirmed by the Successor of Saint Peter himself.

Homily of the Holy Father at the closing Mass

Other highlights of this liturgy included a number of polynesians who presented the Book of Gospels and a variety of pilgrims from various countries who proclaimed the Prayers of the Faithful. This international liturgical gathering was concluded with the recitatation of the Angelus, before which the Holy Father presented a brief catechesis about invoking the prayer of the Mother of God.

In the closing moments of this celebration, the Holy Father announced that the next international gathering of World Youth Day pilgrims will take place in 2011 in Madrid, Spain.

Greeting of the Holy Father after the recitation of the Angelus

Following the completion of the Mass, the procession of young people moved away from Randwick. Having completed the formal events of this WYD gathering, this procession now speaks of the youth who will retun in the next days to their respective homes, continuing the procession of their lives, and discovering anew the seven-fold gifts of the Holy Spirit which call us each day to a deeper understanding of the power of Christ alive in our hearts.

Walking on water

2008-07-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

This morning we made our way to North Sydney and then began the two hour pilgrimage that would see us arrive at Randwick Racecourse. The Saturday pilgrimage is an integral part of the experience of World Youth Day, and this year's walk was among the most picturesque ever.

Only on exceptional occasions is the Sydney Harbour Bridge closed to traffic, but this morning, the ebb of pilgrims began at 5:30 am. Even before the sun had risen, the parade of pilgrims had begun, and by 11:00 am when we joined them, there was a constant stream of humanity traversing the Sydney Harbour. Pilgrims traveling in groups would stop from time to time to take pictures of themselves standing above the harbour, overlooking the Opera House and Darling Harbour.

Once across the bridge, the procession continued into Darling Harbour and then through the streets of the Central Business District to the Randwick Racecourse. At Randwick, we then had to find our way into our designated gates and then to our designated pod. By 2:30 pm, the pilgrimage was complete and we found ourselves ready for a well-deserved rest. At one point, lying on the grass, we opened our eyes to discover that the area around us, which was all but deserted when we had first arrived, had been transformed into a sea of tents, their inhabitants part of a larger group of pilgrims from Italy.

It wasn't long before every square metre of grass was occupied. Throughout the remainder of the afternoon, we spoke with some of our neighbours, rested, and kept drinking liquid. The Australian sun can often be deceiving - even in the dead of winter, the sun can be scorching and dehydration becomes a very serious problem, combined with the risk of sunburns. The funny thing is that once the sun sets - approximately at 5:00 pm these days - the temperatures plummet, and the warmth of the sun is replaced by the frigidness of winds and cool night air.

This night was to be different because as the sun set, the undulation of voices and movements of people continued, and the presenters began the evening program which included various musical performances, highlighted by the arrival of the Holy Father himself who presided at the evening vigil.

World Youth Day vigils are typically moments of deep prayer for some and certainly moments of conversion for others. They are usually built around a certain theme, and since the theme of this years encounter was You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses (Acts 1:8) the evening vigil included a series of testimonies from youth in various languages, and the presentation of twenty-four (24) candidates for Confirmation who would be confirmed by the Holy Father during the closing Mass on Sunday evening.

Address of His Holiness at Randwick Racecourse (Sydney) during the evening vigil, Saturday, July 19, 2008

The Vigil, a spectacular moment of prayer which saw young people at prayer in the light of thousands of candles, and included profound moments of silence as they were invited to pray before the Blessed Sacrament, came to an end around 9:00 pm local time. From that moment, a series of musical performances continued until 10:00 before the pilgrims were invited to bed down for the night.

In former years, WYD festivities traditionally take place in the height of summer. July and August nights in the Northern Hemisphere are usually warm and pleasant, but July in Australia is the depth of winter, so the ambient temperature at night can fall to only 5 degrees celsius. Needless to say, there was much movement afoot and the young people continued to sing and dance - sometimes more as a way to keep warm - until they were utterly exhausted and crawled into their sleeping bags for the night, wearing all the clothes they had brought with them.

Even though on a practical note, some pilgrims were treated for hypothermia, for the most part, those gathered were well prepared for the 'naturally air conditioned' situation.

Celebrating with the local flock

2008-07-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

The procession of WYD pilgrims across the Sydney Harbour bridge began at 5:30 this morning and will continue throughout the day. Having prayed the Stations of the Cross yesterday afternoon in venues throughout the CBD, the youth of the world become today visibile and living signs of the love of Christ as we continue our pilgrimage through the city of Sydney toward the place where we will celebrate the closing Mass tomorrow morning in presence of the Holy Father and the assembled Church.

In the meanwhile, the Holy Father is in Saint Mary's Cathedral this morning to celebrate a Mass with the priests of the Archdiocese of Sydney, the Religious and invided members of each parish of the Archdiocese.

During this liturgy, the Holy Father will consecrate the newly-installed permanent altar which will adorn the sanctuary of Saint Mary's from now on. A copy of the Holy Father's homily for this special celebration with the Church of Sydney will be available on the Vatican website once the celebration is complete.

Blessing landmarks

2008-07-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

In 2002, the Stations of the Cross celebrated at WYD in Toronto changed forever the imagry of one of the major downtown streets of that city. University Avenue, which is famous as part of the business district of one of the world's busiest cities, was transformed into the route for the celebration of the Way of the Cross, and since that time, places such as Osgoode Hall, Sick Children's Hospital, Queens Park and the Royal Ontario Museum will always be associated in the minds of some with the major moments in the passion, suffering and death of Christ.

This ultimate gesture of self-giving was re-enacted this afternoon in the heart of the Central Business District of Sydney, half a world away. Like Toronto, some of the major sites of the downtown area of this city will from this day forward also carry different implications and memories for those who were present for the Via crucis which was enacted here this afternoon.

Shortly after 3:00 pm local time, the Holy Father himself began the Stations of the Cross with a prayer which he uttered on the front stairs of Saint Mary's Cathedral. In the fore-court of the Cathedral, the first station - Jesus celebrating the Last Supper with his disciples was enacted. From there, the procession moved to the adjacent park known as the Domain for the second station: The Agony in the Garden, and then to the steps of the NSW Art Gallery for the enactment of Jesus before the Sanhedrin.

Other sites in the CBD which hosted the stations of the cross include the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo, the waterfront property which has recently been transfromed from a series of warehouses to an open park.

Innovations added this year included transporting Jesus with the cross by boat through the harbour from the Sydney Opera House to Darling Harbour, passing beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge. In a real sense, the Bridge which spans the harbour will now be associated with the divine healing offered by Jesus as he walked and suffered along the Via crucis. Like him, it stretches its arms from one bank to the other, as a sign of love and welcome for all visitors, and as a sign of mercy and forgiveness that we are all called to live.

After the completion of WYD, Barangaroo will be transformed into a series of urban condominiums, but no matter what shape they take, this area will always be remembered by some as the place where the final hours of Jesus' life were enacted for all the world to see.

The dramatic enactments of World Youth Day invite the youth of the world to realize that Jesus' suffering was not a fable which belongs in books, but rather that it is a living reality that is lived each day of our lives. Having completed the catechetical sessions, and witnessed the Way of the Cross, the youth will partake tomorrow in a pilgrimage which will assemble them for a special vigil tomorrow night, and for the final Mass which will be celebrated by His Holiness at Randwick Racecourse.

Meeting with others

2008-07-18T02:07:00.000-07:00

This morning, while the WYD pilgrims were participating in their third and final catechesis session this morning, the Holy Father held a series of meetings with representatives of other Christian churches and with representatives of other faiths who live here in Australia.

During his meetings today, the Holy Father urged members of all faiths to unite against 'indiscriminate violence' in the name of religion. These meetings with members of other churches and with those who follow other faith traditions have become a trademark of the outreach gestures that the Holy Father initiates.

The texts of the Holy Father's speeches during the Eccumenical meeting held in the crypt of Saint Mary's Cathedral this morning and of his speech with representatives of other religions, held in the Chapter House of the Cathedral detail his gestures of reconciliation tendered today.

Welcoming the Pope

2008-07-17T04:42:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, one of the key moments in the celebration of World Youth Day finally came to pass. More than 150,000 youth gathered in Sydney have been looking forward to welcoming the Holy Father who is here to share some moments of prayer with us.

The Papal Welcoming ceremony took place this afternoon on Sydney Harbour as Benedict XVI participated in a boat-er-cade including 13 ships which travelled through the harbour to the cheers of youth who lined the seaside in the Botanic Gardens, at the Sydney Opera House, along Circular Quay and at Barangaroo in Darling Harbour. Disembarking at Barangaroo, the pope a moment to greet the youth who were gathered there to welcome him to Sydney.

Once the official greetings had been spoken, he then boarded the Pope-mobile for the motorcade ride through the downtown business district of Sydney. The motorcade travelled through the streets of downtown Sydney to the cheers of pilgrims and Sydneysiders alike. After winding its way through the Botanic Gardens and the Domain, the popemobile made its way to Saint Mary's Cathedral where the pope will spend the evening.

The meeting with the WYD pilgrims was a perfect end to a busy day of activities for the Holy Father. He visited today with the Governor General of Australia where he exchanged greetings before signing the official guest book, and then paid a short visit to the tomb of Blessed Mary MacKillop located in North Sydney before making his way to the harbour to join the boat-er-cade.

In the end, the papal motorcade raced through the streets of downtown Sydney because of time restrictions and because of the high level of security that is being afforded the Head of State from the Vatican. Many spectators who had waited for up to four hours to catch a glimpse of the pope got just that - a passing glimpse.

Tomorrow, the pope will meet with representatives of other christian religions and with representatives of other religions before reciting a prayer at the beginning of the Stations of the Cross at 3:00 pm tomorrow. Tomorrow evening, he is scheduled to meet with a group of disadvantaged youth in the church of the Sacred Heart (Sydney). In the meanwhile, untold miracles continue to occur among the pilgrims who are gathered here. Only in time will some of these conversion expereinces come to light.

No instant coffee in heaven

2008-07-17T04:16:00.000-07:00

Last week, my companion and I were visiting in New Zealand and met some of the young pilgrims from that country who were on their way to Sydney for the WYD. Today, we made our way to the church of Saint Declan in Penshurst (Sydney) in order to catch up with these young Kiwis. We wanted to see how they were doing, and to take advantage of yet another experience of the catechetical sessions that are being offered throughout Sydney for the participants who have gathered here from all points of the globe.

This morning, youngsters who gathered in Penshurst were treated to a presentation on the subject of the Holy Spirit and the Church. The presenter was the Most Reverend Séamus Freeman, SAC, Bishop of Ossory, Ireland. Using his gifts of humor and frank discussion, he spoke of the Church and our belonging to it as we belong to a family.

While admitting that the ideal is not always the reality, he explained that the Church is like a family which should always make room at the 'kitchen table' for every one of us. Like families who gather in our kitchens to share the story of our lives, our struggles and our triumphs, the Church should always invite dialogue, true dialogue which expects that every contributor will be listened to and every hearer will listen intently to the words, ideas and thoughts that are shared.

Asked by the youth who were gathered there what he thought of various religious groups which try to tell the world that they have the truth about the future, about today's world and about how we should relate to them, he used the alegory of seeking help from an experienced Catholic or Christian to seek answers to the myriad options that are sometimes presented to us.

In his words, living faith today can be hard work. Admittedly, it requires us to be committed to our faith, and to be courageous enough to stand up for what we believe in. This is not always an easy choice. Getting to heaven therefore requires us to work, to commit ourselves to living according to our faith. In other words, there is no instant coffee in heaven ... we need to start with the beans, grind them to the right consistency and then make the coffee which can and will be enjoyed.

The youth invasion

2008-07-16T00:45:00.000-07:00

What happens when the normal routine of life is turned absolutely upside down? For some people, change is just part of life, but for others, it can be upsetting ... downright catastrophic.

What happens when the population of a city is swelled by more than 300,000 young people complete with their energy, their questions, their dreams and their sense of adventure? For most of the day-to-day Sydneysiders, the presence of the World Youth Day pilgrims may well remain a part of the evening news, but for at least some of those who live and work in this metropolis, this week will be nothing short of a life-changing experience.

From the outer suburbs where some of the youth have been lodged in billeted homes to more than 200 Catholic churches throughout this Archdiocese, signs of life are abundant during this week. Sure, the Cardinal Archbishop of Sydney reminded the young people that come next week, those who have come from all points of the globe will be on their way home, and at least a semblance of calm will return to the surface of the water (if our lives may be briefly compared to shallow lakes). However, it is not so much the visible changes which may be most worth our attention this week, but rather the spirit's movements in the hearts of pilgrims young and old which may be beginning during these days, or being deepened by this encounter.

Youngsters travelling in groups throughout the city streets are quick to burst into song or to greet one another in any multitude of languages. A stroll through Sydney's famous Botanic Gardens this afternoon revealed many groups who were sitting on the grass or strolling through the many pathways. In some cases, they were deepening their understanding of faith, in others, they were singing together.

In Hyde Park, thousands of young people gathered today to sing, to visit the WYD on HYDE makeshift store where souvenirs can be found in great abundance, or to prepare for their visit to the Cathedral of Saint Mary which is located on the Eastern edge of Hyde Park. Within this edifice which has stood as a sanctuary of faith for Catholics of this country for more than two centuries, young people are invited to meet some of the saints of today and yesterday, and to touch the sacred which is oh so close to us, but which we often ignore or forget because they cannot 'plug in' to the voice of God which calls to us with a promise of love, peace and joy.

For his part, the Holy Father, Benedict XVI is completing his three-day retreat at Kenthurst on the North-western edge of Sydney. This evening, he is travelling into the city of Sydney along with the other 26 members of the papal party. For the next five nights, he will stay at Saint Mary's Cathedral from where he will hold a series of private meetings, and will participate in the long-awaited papal welcoming ceremony which will take place tomorrow afternoon.

Copies of the speeches to be shared during the Holy Father's visit at Government House where he will meet the Australian Governor General and other civil authorities, and the greeting he will share with World Youth Day pilgrims and indeed all other official texts of the pope's presentations during his official visit down under will be available after they have been delivered on the Vatican's website.

Catechesis: the heart of World Youth Day

2008-07-16T00:06:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning in Sydney saw the next phase of the World Youth Day activities take flight. In more than 200 sites throughout this city, the pilgrims, who by now number upward of 150,000 were separated into linguistic groups to take part in Catechesis sessions which are led by the world's bishops and cardinals who are present.

Following the theme of the 23rd World Youth Day: You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses (Acts 1:8), the young people will be invited to explore the role of the Holy Spirit in their faith lives today.

At the church of Saint Joan of Arc in Habberfield, a predominantly Italian neighbourhood of Sydney, pilgrims gathered today to listen to an animated catechesis led by an Italian diocese which is famous in Church circles, for it counts among its sons Saint John of Capistrano. Like all newcomers to the life of faith, these pilgrims were invited to consider some basic truths about life:

just as babies must learn language and customs first by observation and then by trial and error, we too must first learn the ways of faith by hearing about them and then by struggling with them so that we can appropriate them for ourselves;

we learn faith from the examples of saints as well as from those who bring us to the source of faith - Jesus Christ;

throughout salvation history, the process of growing in faith has continued from the time of creation when we first experienced the love of the Father; to the incarnation; when God sent his son as the ultimate sign of his love; to the arrival of the Holy Spirit, gift of God for the life of the Church;

the Holy Spirit has been in existence since the beginning of time - it breathed over the waters at the time of creation; it was present to breathe life into the reconstructed bones of Ezekiel's prophecy; it was present at the moment of the Immaculate Conception; it was present throughout the life of Jesus; it was present at the time of Pentecost when the Church was born; and it is present today to guide us as we live and love today;

some parts of our world are in trouble today because we have forgotten how to listen to the voice of God that calls to us from the day of our baptism. This is the time for us to waken from the slumber of daily life, to waken to the voice of God, to listen attentively as He calls us to deepen our knowledge of his love, and to listen also for his voice that calls us all to live life to the fullest.

Catechetical sessions take place every morning until Friday of this week. This afternoon and this evening, a series of youth festival events are being offered throughout the city of Sydney, including a vocation pavillion which invites the worlds youth to ask questions about the possibility that Christ might be calling them to follow in his footsteps.

One of the long-lasting fruits of the World Youth Days is the number of young men and women who have answered the call of God to follow him as priests and as religious. In addition, many have chosen the married state because they have been encouraged to ask deep questions about life and to listen attentively to God's voice which calls them to make a difference in the world by being faithful to the gospel call which was given to us all on the day of our baptism. This is a call which leads some to proclaim God's mercy in the celebration of sacraments, others to celebrate God's loving gift of creation in married life and the birth of children, and others to celebrate God's love as witnesses of prayer and joy to all they meet.

World Youth Day festivities continue down under until Sunday.

G'day mates

2008-07-15T04:37:00.000-07:00

For the past year, an electronic clock outside Saint Mary's Cathedral here in Sydney has been counting down the days until the World Youth Day festivities would begin. Finally this morning, the clock struck G'day as Sydneysiders (as the locals refer to themselves around here) saw 200,000 young people converge on the downtown area, including the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, the famous Rocks neighbourhood and the East Darling Harbour development which has been dubbed as Barangaroo.

The city of Sydney has been tranformed over these past few days. The business district, which like most other cosmopolitan cities is known for highrises, rushing pedestrians and seemingly unending traffic now has an added element of foreign youth to contend with. Sydney is no stranger to visitors; only eight years ago, they hosted the summer Olympics, but the WYD festival will make the Olympic organizational efforts pale by comparison.

Priests and pilgrims alike who arrived from all points of the globe, by aircraft, by bus, by boat or by any other means had to complete the registration and accreditation process this morning, then make their way to Barangaroo, located just west of the famous Rocks neighbourhood, on the southern shores of Sydney harbour. There, the outdoor site of the opening Mass had been constructed on a piece of land that apparently will be completely overhauled in the coming months to make room for some refurbished condominiums, perfect for the yuppie crowd.

At 1:00 pm, pilgrims began arriving at Barangaroo, and by 2:30, theare was teaming with life. Flags of almost every nation on earth were flying in the wind while sounds of laughter, song and youthful energy combined to create the traditional gathering which stretches across international borders, language barriers and deep into the hearts of the most fearful to invite all participants to follow Christ.

From 3:30 pm until just after 4:00 pm, a series of young Australians who had attended various WYD experiences since the inception of this pastoral outreach were invited to share some of the ways that this youth festival has changed their lives. Video presentations of images from the various WYD encounters also helped to recall all the miracles which have taken place, and the many thousands of lives which have been affected so profoundly by the WYD experience.

At roughly 4:15 pm, a group of aboriginals from various parts of Australia were invited to prepare the gathered pilgrims for the celebration of this opening liturgy. Singing a traditional song of welcome and with a variety of dances, they added a very unique flavor to this celebration down under.

The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Kevin Rudd, presented greetings and welcomed all the pilgrims, explaining that they are signs of spring within the Australian winter. He wished them all a week of fruitful encounter and a warm Sydneysider welcome.

Various interesting elements were added including a combined presentation of the book of gospels by an aglo-saxon Australian and by one of the Aussie aboriginals who processed together, holding the book until they reached the deacon who accepted it at the foot of the sanctuary and proceeded to the pulpit for the proclamation of the gospel.

In his homily, George Cardinal Pell reminded the gathered pilgrims that although many of them might have come to Australia feeling as though their faith was nothing but dry bones (Ez 37:1-14), Christ the good shepherd never leaves his flock untended. In fact he comes after the lost, seeking us out and bringing us back to himself (Psalm 22). With the power of the Holy Spirit's gifts to help us (Gal 5:16-17, 22-25), we can all find hope in the promise of the Lord who sows the seed of his word in our hearts (Lk 8:4-18) and who has the power to deepen our faith at times despite our own efforts. He then encouraged the young people to take advatage of this week to open their hearts to the love of God who awaits us all and who wants to bring us closer to himself.

At the conclusion of the Opening Mass, pilgrims were invited to remain at Barangaroo for the Opening concert which featured various local talent. The concert concluded at 10:00 pm local time with an amazing display of pyrotechnics over the Sydney harbour.

Beginning tomorrow morning, pilgrims will be invited to gather in various locations throughout the city for catechesis sessions (9:00 am to 12:00 noon) and then to participate in a variety of Youth Festival events which will continue each evening until 10:00 pm. The Vocation pavillion located in Hyde Park and the various locations for the celebration of Reconciliation with the WYD pilgrims will also be important places for some of most profound God moments this week.

Youth at prayer

2008-07-15T00:46:00.000-07:00

The theme of the 23rd World Youth Day, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses." (Acts 1:8) is already coming true.

The activities for WYD have already begun. On Monday afternoon while we were walking around the downtown area of Sydney, there were already signs that Taize prayer sessions had begun in some of the local parishes.

Throughout the evening hours, pilgrims arriving from various parts of Australia and overseas were being welcomed in various locations, including parishes in the Sydney area and the Olympic Village where the largest delegation - some 450 pilgrims in one group - will be spending their nights.

There was also a prayer vigil in Saint Mary's Cathedral where 700 young people gathered to pray in the presesence of the mortal remains of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frasatti, one of the World Youth Day patrons. Father Thomas Rosica, CSB who facilitated this prayer vigil said that it was a very moving experience of prayer.

Later today, all the pilgrims who are here will gather on the shores of the Sydney harbour for the celebration of the official opening liturgy. It promises to be a wonderful celebration of hope.

Live coverage of the main events of WYD are being broadcast on the WYD website at http://www.wyd2008.org/.

Getting ready for WYD

2008-07-14T05:14:00.000-07:00

Today was the first full day of Pope Benedict's stay in Australia. While he took today to rest and to welcome the Archbishop of Sydney for a luncheon meeting, the pilgrims continue to arrive in Sydney by plane, by bus, by car, on foot ... by any means of transportation that is possible.

The World Youth Day cross, which has been travelling through 400 communities across Australia in anticipation of the WYD celebration, finally arrived today by boat and in procession through the downtown area of Sydney. It was accompanied by the WYD icon which also was confided to the care of the world's youth by the late Pope John Paul II. This year, these two travelling items were also accompanied for the first time by an aboriginal talking stick.

Today was the last full day for registration of new pilgrims and for the priests who are here to complete their registration and accreditation before the beginning of official activities tomorrow. Today, my companion and I began our day at 1 Grafton Street, Chippendale - the address we had been instructed to visit in order to complete the registration for WYD, and to pick up the accreditation which will allow us to concelebrate the opening Mass tomorrow and the closing Mass on Sunday morning.

Within minutes of our arrival at 1 Grafton Street, where there were not only priests, but a long line of volunteers and other group leaders waiting to complete their registration, we were instructed by some of the volunteers that all priests had been asked to go to the famous Sydney Opera House in order to complete their accreditation. Normally, priests accompany groups of pilgrims but are not the group leaders, so the volunteers immediately instructed us to go to the Opera House, without picking up our pilgrim packs first.

Once we had finally located the room in the Opera House where the accreditation was being completed for priests, we then had to wait for more than two hours before arriving at the head of the line and getting our prized nametags which will be displayed all through the week in order to gain us access to the areas reserved for clergy this week. Only after we had procured our accreditation could we return once again to 1 Grafton Street to pick up our pilgrim packages. Thankfully, by the time we had returned, although the lines of people had not diminished, we did not have to wait too long before we got our pilgrim packs.

In all, we spent the better part of six hours travelling from one part of the city to another, and waiting - as patiently as possible - for the process of accreditation and registration to be complete. We were actually among the lucky ones; given the number of priests who have arrived and who are still arriving from all parts of the world, the waiting game has only just begun.

Tomorrow's opening Mass begins at 4:30 pm local time on the shores of the Sydney Harbour in the newly-named Barangaroo park not far from Sydney's Darling Harbour.

When all is said and done, the process of registration is constantly being improved from one experience of WYD to another. This is not an easy process, and those who are resposible for making it happen have quite a difficult task to accomplish. Given the fact that there are more than 200,000 pilgrims expected, it seems that everything can appear to be under control at least when it comes to planning the process, but when the human element is added, there are more than a few opportunities for confusion to occur, and the entire experience of WYD becomes one of patience, elasticity and realizing that this is truly a pilgrimage, the moving of people from one significant meeting of our hearts with the heart of Jesus, to another.

Within the next few days, this most recent meeting of hearts will unfold. I'm convinced that there will be miracles this week, and there will be moments to truly stand in awe of God who accomplishes the impossible with the feeble gifts of human beings who seek to follow Him.

Verso l'alto

2008-07-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Australia today, and although he is scheduled to take a few days' rest before officially saying 'G'day' to the pilgrims who are gathering here in Sydney for the World Youth Day celebrations, there is already mounting excitement evident in the streets of this down under city.

This morning, we attended the celebration of Mass at the church of Saint Columba and the Holy Souls in Leichhardt, and heard about the plans being made there to welcome some of the pilgrims who will be arriving tomorrow. Some of the parishioners from this church will also be boarding buses early in the morning next Sunday to make their way to the Randwick Racecourse for the closing Mass which will be celebrated by the Holy Father.

This afternoon, we travelled into the city to visit some of the sites which are being transformed for the WYD festivities. Sydney's famous Opera House, along with the Botanic Gardens and the section just west of the Rocks known as Barangaroo will be closed off to public traffic beginning tomorrow evening until Friday night so that the WYD Youth Festival can take place there.

One of the stops along our visit this afternoon was the Cathedral of Saint Mary here in Sydney, where preparations are in high gear for the WYD celebrations. A new painting of Our Lady of the Southern Cross now graces the walls of the Cathedral. It is a very life-like rendition of the Madonna and Child commissioned especially for the WYD2008 celebration. In addition, parts of the Cathedral have been transformed to display special exhibits of Blessed Mary MacKillop, Australia's own servant to the poor whose tomb can be found in North Sydney; and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frasatti, whose body was transported to Sydney and is now on display for the next week within the Cathedral.

On Tuesday afternoon at 4:30 pm, Cardinal George Pell will preside at the official opening Mass which is scheduled to take place at Barangaroo. In anticipation of this celebration, pilgrims who have begun arriving in Sydney since last week are gathering in Hyde Park and around Saint Mary's Cathedral, effectively filling the city with the beginnings of contageous joy, music and laughter. I'm sure that the natives in this city aren't sure what's about to hit them.

In anticipation of his arrival in Australia, the Holy Father issued a special message yesterday which he has addressed to the people of this country, thanking them for all the work they have done to prepare for WYD. He has dubbed Australia the 'great southern land of the Holy Spirit' and has invited young people from all points of the globe to join him for this celebration.

Stay tuned for more information about this awesome pilgrimage ...

Crossing the ditch

2008-07-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

I would never have believed it just a few days ago, but these Canadian guests have actually brought a great deal of joy to my life. Sparring with them makes me feel just like they're part of the family. Well, after a few days, their visit with us came to an end today. I made sure to knock at their door early this morning - they had to be awake by 2:15 am local time so that they could leave by 3:00 am. Their flight from Auckland left this morning at 7:00 am and it's at least a 2 hour drive from here to the airport. I went back to sleep after I'd made sure they were awake (figured they'd get things sorted out, and besides, at my age, I need to get my sleep).

We received word later today to tell us that they had indeed made the flight this morning and have now crossed the ditch and met up with their Aussie hosts. I can just imagine the fun they will be having with that lot. They say that there is a party being organized tonight with some of their host's friends, and tomorrow they are invited to go to dinner with the extended family.

By Monday morning they will be right into final preparations for the World Youth Day festivities. They have received instructions about picking up their identification and registration packets and I'm sure the week will unfold, filled with all manner of other surprises. I can't wait to hear all about it.

Lunch at nan and pop's house

2008-07-11T00:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my sister and I met the two Canadian visitors. They were in a coffee shop in town with nan and we were there with our mum. Nan told us that they are priests, but we didn't believe her at first. These men were sitting with us and actually seemed interested in the life of kids here in New Zealand.

They told me yesterday that they remember meeting me when I was still a whee tot. I don't remember ever meeting them, but they tell stories of mum preparing vegetables for me. She'd boil them and mash them and then put them in ice cube trays so they could be frozen and kept in portions for me. My sister and I still come to nan and pop's farm once in a while, and nan always has vegetable soup and other delicious things for us. I don't really like the soup, but I do like to prepare my own sanwiches and I especially enjoy nan's carrot cake and biscuits (the Canadians tell me that they call biscuits cookies - how strange!).

As we arrived at the farm today, two older cousins and one of my aunties were preparing to leave. They had been here for a visit earlier this morning, and had enjoyed lunch with the Canadians, nan and pop. The two cousins will be leaving on Sunday for Sydney to take part in the World Youth Day festivities. The Canadians were chatting with them and promised to visit with them at some point next week while they are all in Australia. I've heard that Sydney is a big city, much bigger than Putaruru where we live. I wonder if they'll be able to find one another.

One of the cousins who is going to Sydney also lives in Canada. His parents, his sister and he moved to Canada seven years ago, and they left a few boxes with nan and pop until they get back. I hear that the Canadians were re-arranging the boxes today, uncovering lots of dust and the odd spiderweb (and even a rat who had eaten through a blanket). I peeped into the garage to check on the progress of their work. They've rearranged the boxes and other furniture so that nan and pop can still park their cars in the garage. It looks all neat and tidy. I'm sure that nan is very happy about this, but I'm not sure that pop really realizes what's happened there.

My sister and I are both happy to have met these Canadians. They say that they too want to come back and visit soon. I hope they do come back before long. In the meanwhile, they have promised to send letters once they get back to Canada. I'll have to look in an atlas to find out where Canada is. It would be great to visit there sometime. I've heard that it can be really cold there. Maybe if I get the chance to go, I'll have to pack all the clothes I own so I can keep warm.

Nan says that the Canadians need to go to bed early tonight, but they might still have a chance to visit (for a short while) with my two uncles. They have to leave very early in the morning so they can get to the airport in Auckland. Their flight for Sydney leaves at 7:00 am. Since we're on holidays from school this week and next, they will probably be already in the air over the Tasmin sea before my sister and I wake up tomorrow.

Creating a fuss in the thriving metropolis

2008-07-10T00:19:00.000-07:00

Our hosts still live on the farm, although they have really retired from the fuss and bother of early morning milkings and shifting herds from one paddock to another these days. Retirement is treating them well though, and these two pilgrims are having great fun visiting. While yesterday we were content to walk the roads and marvel at the vistas of rolling hills and lush pastures complete with the fresh country air, today our hosts treated us to a different pace of life.

After travelling across the Arapuni dam, we wound our way into the great metropolis of Putaruru to explore the shops and to meet up with some more family members. Little did we know that our arrival in town would be not unlike a stone falling into a tranquil pool, the ripples moving in ever-widening circles and causing more than just a bit of fuss.

First we stopped in at a local wool shop and spent the better part of an hour delightfully watching the charming woman who welcomed us as she flitted from one skein of wool to another. The varieties of colour and textures kept us all mesmorized for quite some time but we finally settled on a few different brands, colours and types of wool, including the highly prized Marino, then it was on to choosing the right patterns for the sweaters which will be made in the coming days, weeks, months ...

Having literally exhausted ourselves shopping this morning, we had to stop in to one of the local coffee shops to have a spot of tea, one of the specialty coffees or a chocolate milkshake along with Nola's daugher Theresa and her two delightful children. When the proprietors heard that these two pilgrims were from Canada, they promply went on a shopping spree of their own: to find a guest book so we could imortalize our stay, brief as it was in this little oasis.

This is our second visit to New Zealand. The first was ten years ago, and to our absolute delight, we discovered that we had still kept some paper money from our first visit here. There is only a small problem - the paper money in New Zealand has all been changed now and the currency we had is no longer being accepted in many establishments. An easy solution to this dillema is to go to one of the local banks and ask them to exchange our out-dated money - so we thought. We asked the lady at the bank wicket if it was possible to exchange the currency, and although she was sure that there would be no problem, she wanted to check it out with some of her associates. This took another half hour of consultations and phone calls, but in the end there was no problem. Apparently, had we waited another five years or so, we may have had major problems, since the coins have already been out of circulation for some time, and the paper money is also being phased out. Weren't we lucky that we came back to visit when we did.

As if all this was not enough, we next stopped in at a jeweler's shop so Nola could have some small medals added to some rosaries that she wants to offer to her grandsons. Once the lady in the shop heard that my companion and I are priests, she was quick to tell us that she too has a rosary which she brought back from Lourdes. For the next several minutes, she ran around the store in quite a tizzy searching in all knooks and crannies for the illusive beads. In the end, she couldn't locate them, but vowed that she would continue the search at home.

Back home on the farm, it's time to relax with afternoon tea. For some of us, this means that we're not actually having a cuppa but rather a cool beer or a glass of wine. This has become quite a ritual of its own, and will be followed tonight with a delicious lamb dinner thanks to the culinary talents of our hosts. In all, this will be a tranquil end to what has turned out to be quite an adventurous day.

Adventures of an Aryshire

2008-07-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

Some new visitors arrived yesterday, only hours after a group of Japanese youngsters left the farm, supposedly to return home. These newest arrivals look rather interesting. They toured around our fields and paddocks with dad yesterday afternoon, and got their first glimpse of the fields that we call home.

Dad and mom say that these newcomers were actually here to visit about 10 years ago, but since that time, much has changed around here. For one thing, dad and mom have moved from the big house which they sold to one of their sons and are now located in another part of the farm. We like this new location though because the grass is very sweet, and the humans who care for us have even planted a vegetable they call sweeds and choumolia to suplement our diet when the grass isn't growing as quickly as it has. The early part of this year was very difficult for us because there was very little rain so the pastures didn't regenerate very quickly. As a result, all of us who are about the calve in the next month or so are having a rather difficult time of it.

People usually say that we look as though we're taking life easy, but in fact we spend the vast majority of our day eating grass or chewing our cuds. Come to think of it, these two Canadian pilgrims have spent the vast majority of today just sitting around relaxing. Do humans chew their cuds too when their just watching the world go by?

I hope they've had enough rest today, because I've heard that tomorrow they will be off and running again. It's been quite some time since mom has knitted, and she's excited about the possibility of making some new sweaters (or jersies as we call them over here). I think she wants to take the priests shopping tomorrow to find the wool, and then she'll be off to the races.

As for dad, he's enjoying having these two around as well. He's usually very quiet, but he's spent all his life with us bovines so he's the best one to tell the priests about what life is like for us here on the farm. At one point there used to be as many as 425 of us to share these pastures, but these days there's only about half that number. Still, there's great wisdom to be learned from the simple things in life, and humans could probably benefit too if they'd just slow down every now and then, and take notice of the way we do things.

New visitors on the farm

2008-07-08T22:11:00.000-07:00

Early this morning, before the sun had come up on the South Island of New Zealand, we were already at the airport waiting for our transfer flight to Hamilton (NZ). In fact, the flight aboard an ATR-72 was quite comfortable and before we knew it we were standing in the Hamilton airport, having arrived 20 minutes ahead of schedule.

Our host for the next few days was actually sitting in the airport, waiting for the flight, but hadn't realized that we had arrived ahead of schedule. Needless to say we were just on the verge of calling her husband (who would truly have enjoyed the joke) when she found us and wisked us out to the waiting car.

It's been about ten years since we last visited with Nola and Bill. At the time of our last visit, they were in the midst of building a new home, and selling the dairy farm to their son. In the coming days, we will have time to visit with these friends, to meet some more of their family and to become aquainted with life at a very different pace.

Some of our hosts' grandchildren are also heading over to Sydney next week for WYD. This will be their first experience of the international youth festival. Hopefully in the next few days we'll have a chance to chat with them, to witness their growing excitement and who knows, perhaps even the opportunity to meet up with them while they are in the big city.

Tune in tomorrow for the newest developments in our journey. I may even find some more guest columnists to contribute their wisdom.

Exploring the garden city

2008-07-07T01:45:00.000-07:00

Since our arrival on the South Island last week, we have had a wonderful experience of meeting new friends and being absolutely spoiled by the hospitality which I'm told is characteristic in this country. The humans aren't the only ones who have outdone themselves. In fact, I've asked Abby, our hosts' black poodle to provide the report for today. Here goes:

Two Canadian priests arrived last week. Much to my chagrin, I've had to share some space with these strangers, but they've done well at listening as I've made sure to tell them whose boss around here. This morning, my mom and dad both left shortly before 9:00 am local time, and left me with THEM (the guests) ! Despite my constant calling for them, they never did show up, and eventually even the guests left.

I had to spend the best part of an hour alone, and with all the coming and going around here, the Canadian guests didn't return until almost 5:00 pm. They told stories of exploring Christchurch today, including places of this city I've not even seen, despite the fact that I've lived here all my life. I hope that my masters will one day show me some of the sights I've heard of today: Christchurch Cathedral, the Anglican Cathedral that dominates Cathedral Square, riding the tram around the downtown area, complete with narration about the various sights, and what about all those other adventures that a dog like me could enjoy so well?

Someday I too will get the chance to go punting on the Avon or to visit the museum in downtown Christchurch. The guests say that there are wonderful displays about the Mauri people and their history in this part of the South Island, as well as some of the prehistoric animals and birds that once were found in such abundance around here, but are now extinct.

Christchurch is well known for their botanical displays. Even in the dead of winter, like we are now, there are beautiful flowers to be seen in the beds around the city, and in the many yards that are so well manicured. There's even an Art Gallery in downtown Christchurch that displays some wonderful artwork from some of New Zealand's most well-known artists. The Canadians say that they enjoyed this part too.

I'm told that these guests are leaving tomorrow and flying off to the North Island. My masters have been happy to meet them, and I too must admit that I've enjoyed being spoiled by them, but I'll be glad when they're gone to have my place back to myself ... no, truly they can call anytime. Even though my mummy might not remember them, I will always remember their contageous laughter and friendly greetings.

From the other alps

2008-07-06T01:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry folk, it's been a while since I was able to post any information, but this doesn't mean that I've been sitting still.

The flights across the world went well. By the time we had finished blazing up the skies, we were in Christchurch (south island, New Zealand). We had travelled for a total of almost 26 hours but actually missed Wednesday altogether. Havingmet our first hosts here in Christchurch, we discovered immediately the great hospitality for which the Garden City of this south isle is so well known.

It wasn't long before Friday morning had arrived. We boarded the Trans Alpine Train and within four hours, we had crossed through the magnificent Southern Alps and found our way to Greymouth - on the Tasmin Sea. Sights not to be missed on the West coast of New Zealand's south island include the famous pancake rocks and of course the Fox Glacier.

On Saturday, we spent the day visiting the famous Fox, one of two glaciers most well known on the South Island. The weather cooperated ... bright sunshine was ours to enjoy even though all around us there was so much snow falling that many of the mountain passes were closed.

Today we met with some pilgrims from the Christchurch diocese who will be attending World Youth Day in Sydney. There are currently a number of delegates from various countries, including Canada, visiting in various places throughout New Zealand and Australia prior to making their way to Sydney next week.

As of this writing, my companion and I have returned to Christchurch, and after a day of touring tomorrow, we will head back to the North Island. More info about this unique 'days in the diocese' experience of touring New Zealand will be published in the near future, including some of the (200) photos that have now been taken.

The pilgrimage begins

2008-07-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

As early as the 4th century A.D., there is evidence that people have travelled on pilgrimages. One of the first names of those who made these voyages of faith was Egeria. Under the protection of her prayers, the organizing committee for World Youth Day 2008 has been hard at work preparing to welcome pilgrims from all points of the world who will be arriving in Sydney next week for this now-well-established youth festival.

Very early this morning, before the sun had begun to scatter the first rays of light, a companion and I began our most recent pilgrimage. Following the example of Egeria, we have now set out for some well-deserved rest, a chance to meet some new people, and an opportunity to renew old friendships.

Throughout the next three weeks, we are on pilgrimage to the land down under. As of this writing, we have left our homes in Northern Ontario (Canada) and are in Toronto enjoying some hospitality thanks to family who are here.

We've already had an adventure of sorts. Before leaving Sudbury, the airline staff kindly checked our bags all the way to Auckland. That means that when we arrived in Toronto, we had to claim our bags and then clear US customs, but we wanted to stop in Toronto to visit here for a few hours first. Thanks to the kindness of some of the agents who were helping travellers to find their way, we are indeed home for a few hours, but first we needed to clear Canadian customs (since we were sequestered in an area of the airport considered as US territory).

We're now awaiting the next flight which will take us to San Franciso, California (USA), but before we board that flight, we'll need to clear US customs here in Toronto. I wonder what other adventures that will entail!

From San Franciso, we will cross the Pacific and land in Auckland early in the morning on Thursday of this week and then transfer to Christchurch, the capital of New Zealand.

The next few days will pass with a blur so you will excuse me if I do not have the chance to recount much about what will take place. I promise that as soon as I can, I'll continue to tell the tales of the good work God is doing in our lives and in the lives of others.

Faith and conviction

2008-06-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

There is great pomp and pageantry in Rome this weekend. Every year on June 29th, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, newly appointed Archbishops throughout the world travel to Rome to be invested with the pallium, a woollen scarf that is worn over the liturgical vestiture as a sign of their union with the Bishop of Rome.

Forty-three pallia will be distributed this year by the pope, and there are two Canadian Archbishops counted among those who will receive them. To a casual onlooker, this liturgy appears to be an extravaganza, but the truths it speaks of tell a different tale. From the earliest times of the Church, Christians have made pilgrimages to the tombs of the apostles, and this is what the Archbishops are doing. They go to Rome to pray at the tombs of the great apostles Peter and Paul, and to express their unity with Peter’s successor.

In truth, the pallium is a symbol of service. Jesus himself appointed Peter as ‘chief among the apostles’ based on his profession of faith, spoken of in the gospel we heard today, ‘you are the Christ, the Son of the living God’ (Mt 16:16). This conviction could never have been arrived at if Peter had not first had the opportunity to know Jesus, to live with him, to hear his words, to struggle with the truths he spoke about the kingdom. Peter was a Jew, living under Roman occupation. He was well aware of the oppression with which the Empire ruled. He also knew that Jesus spoke of a different kind of power, born out of service to others, and strengthened not by force or might, but rather by love and forgiveness.

Even the possibility of imprisonment (Acts 12:1-4) did not stop Peter from speaking about Christianity. He boldly called other Jews to believe in a new way of living. Despite the threats of Herod and his army, he called friends and strangers alike to believe that every human being is sacred, that every one of us is loved and that each of us has a place in the eternal home called heaven.

The power and conviction of our faith also caused Saul of Tarsus to change his ways. The book of Acts recounts the fact that he was one of the early Church’s fiercest enemies, but after a dramatic conversion, he became one of the most prolific defenders of Christianity. Paul, a Roman by birth, became a messenger to the gentiles, traveling unceasingly for more than ten years to many parts of the known world. Because of his belief in the power of Christ, the Church also has a rich treasury of his writings contained in the Sacred Scriptures (2 Tim 4:6-8, 17-18).

Beginning today, the entire Church throughout the world will observe a Pauline Year in honour of the bimillenium of the birth of Saint Paul. This year of special observance will conclude with the celebration of the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul next year. Throughout this coming year, it would be fitting that we each take some time to deepen our knowledge and appreciation for the place Saint Paul has played in our faith history. We can do this by reading and studying the letters he wrote to various Christian communities, and asking for his intercession so that we too can develop the fervour of spirit that allowed him to preach to the gentiles and that enflamed both Paul and Peter with the conviction that lives on in the call to proclaim the value of mercy and divine love, a call given to each of us who call ourselves disciples of the living God.

See no evil

2008-06-24T19:36:00.000-07:00

Remember the old saying, 'See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil'? There are some who would venture to say that in an effort to uphold this truism, some have preferred a conspiracy of silence when it comes to some truths.

Agreed, there is a time for speaking the truth, for bringing it to light, and there is a time for keeping some truths in the shadows. Evidence the work published in August 2007 by Geoffrey Robinson, Auxiliary Bishop emeritus of Sydney (Australia). Coauthored with Rev. Donald Cozzens, the work entitled Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church has caused no end of shock waves to reverberate in the world of scholars and of course the Roman Catholic Church in the United States of America.

Until recently, Fr. Cozzens has been widely respected for his work in the area of priestly spirituality. His numerous publications speak frankly of the challenges facing priests today and of the love, compassion and creativity needed in some cases to continue as signs of God's love for the world today. However, the publicity that has surrounded this newest work has curiously won him a certain amount of disfavor from those who have previously regarded him so highly.

Bishop Robinson was very highly regarded among his Aussie brothers for his work within the Church down under, especially with regard to taking a proactive role in devising processes within the Church for the prevention of sexual abuse. His work on Confronting Power is a courageous step toward helping the wounded individuals in the Church to begin the healing process which is so badly needed.

Unfortunately, the publication of Confronting Power has not done either of its authors any favors. It has however attracted a certain amount of attention since the truths it speaks of are among those which until now many who are in the know would much rather classify in the category of the fabled monkeys and their proverbial wisdom.

Will this work and others like it be swept under the rug with the hope that they will fade gracefully into that still dark night or will they prove to be catalysts for discussion and healing? Only time will tell.

Celebrating 400 years

2008-06-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

The city of Quebec is abuz this week. People from all continents have converged there to participate in the International Eucharistic Congress. Although these International Congresses have been in existence for quite some time, they have rarely taken place in Canada, so this is truly a rare occasion.

Not only have participants come from all parts of the globe, but the presenters themselves have also come from various parts of Europe, from South America, from the United States of America, and points beyond.

This is also an opportunity for the Church to breathe with her two lungs, since both the Eastern and the Western Church are present, benefiting from the wisdom that we share with one another, and the vast experience which enriches us. Some of the Divine Liturgy has been recorded and is available for public viewing, including the Prokeimenon, the Cherubic hymn 'Let us who mystically represent the Cherubim', and the Gregorian song in preparation for the proclamation of the gospel:

In addition, various conferences and catechesis sessions have been recorded. Speakers include the Cardinal Archbishops of Lyon (France), Krakow (Poland), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Washington (USA) and Detroit (USA). In addition, other presentations have been made on the subject of the Eucharist and the Family, and the Eucharist as Communion between peoples.

The IEC concludes on Sunday of this week. More coverage will be posted as it becomes available.

Lessons in humility

2008-06-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

Do you pray? If so, who taught you to pray? What is your undersanding of prayer and how does it influence your image of God (or whatever higher power you recognize)?

How we relate to one another can often reflect in the manner after which we relate to God. If someone has grown up in a household where there was much bullying or control then there very well may be a relationship of fear created between that person and God. By contrast, if life comes easily then we may be tempted to expect that God will acquiesce to our every desire.

To be truly wise is to understand that no matter how much power and influence we may have in some spheres, there are always others in which we are perpetual students, and one of these areas is that of faith. We can never presume to have arrived at the pinacle of knowledge when it comes to faith because faith is about relationships, with ourselves, with others and with God. If our conversation with God is genuine, we will be drawn ever deeper into the realization of this truth, and the fact that each of us really plays a very small part in the grand scheme of things.

There has been much discussion and debate about using the Lord's Prayer in various settings as a recognition of faith and not all the details have been flattering for either proponents or antagonists, but it is by no accident that Jesus taught his followers to pray using this precise formula.

Despite our deepest darkest desires, none of us is God, and we do well to acknowledge the fact that we all need to rely on a source other than ourselves for guidance through life. Meanwhile, we are all pilgrims on a journey toward our ultimate destiny, our final abode. From time to time, we do get glimpses of this destination even as we continue on the way, and these are indeed moments to be savoured.

Like a loving parent, God gives us all the food we need so that we can be nourished and strengthened. He never gives us too much of this special food, but just enough to tide us over to the next encounter. Between the moments of our lives when we encounter the sacred, we too are on a journey. We learn, we practice and we teach the lessons of forgiveness, of acceptance and of unbridled love.

Make time for prayer in your life. You might be surprised at the outcome.

Do good

2008-06-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stopped to consider the motivation for what you do?

Busy people know that in order to get through all the tasks set before us, it is sometimes necessary to just function on auto-pilot, but to do this for any but a controlled length of time leaves the door wide open to the possibility that the do-gooder will eventually fall victim to his-her own desire to do, and forget how to be.

The true philanthropist does good work simply with the aim of making someone else happy. There's an immeasurable amount of reward in the doing if the aim is to truly make a difference in someone's life (usually someone other than oneself). Could it be that truth be known, it happens at least on occasion that people do good so that they themselves will somehow be assuaged from the guilt of too much success, or too much abundance? The problem with this attitude is that no matter how much good we do, guilt is never completely expunged.

By contrast, goodness breeds goodness, so acts of kindness which are motivated by love and genuine concern are infectious and often lead the beneficiaries of benevolence to themselves do small acts of kindness. The old saying holds true, 'tis better to light one candle than to curse the darkness'.

Where is there darkness in our lives today? Are there opportunities for us to spread even a little light in such places, bringing joy to the sorrowful and hope to the despairing? Every little bit counts.

One step closer

2008-06-17T06:18:00.000-07:00

The Vatican undersecretary for Relations with States, Monsignor Pietro Parolin returned this week from a three-day meeting with high ranking officials in Vietnam, including Foreign Minister Pham Gia Kiem. The purpose of this meeting was to continue the process of negotiations toward the eventual establishment of diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Vietnam. There is still lots of work to do on that front, but at least there is an agreement now that discussions from this point onward will be frank, open and constructive.

Catholics in Vietnam only count for about 7% of the total population but Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung did visit the pope in the Vatican in January 2007, so there is at least a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Establishing diplomatic relations is a long and tedious process, and it often takes many years of vigilence and fine tuning.

This meeting is part of the ongoing efforts by the Vatican to strengthen relations with countries where there are only limited agreements and to attempt collaboration with those who progress in good will toward the possibility of lasting peace for the good of all people.

Knowing at least the highlights of some of the behind-the-scenes work that continues at the Vatican can help those of us who struggle at times to keep the peace within our own little worlds to appreciate the delicate balance that must be maintained especially when relations on the world stage are still at the very fledgling stages.

Considering the potential outcome of botched diplomatic negotiations, one wonders whether some nuclear families, people in the business world and those who fight for the rights of workers would not do well to practice the finer points of this balet. Of course, the same lessons also apply to the world of establishing and maintaining friendships and acquaintances.

Celebrating 400 years, day 1

2008-06-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

The festival has begun. After more than four years of preparation, the city of Quebec came to life today with the beginning of the 49th International Eucharistic Congress.

More than 10,000 pilgrims are converging on the city this weekend:

The festivities began with a celebration of life:

and the procession of the Blessed Sacrament which was brought into the worship space along with the Ark of the New Covenant which has been traveling across Canada in preparation for the Eucharistic Congress:

The opening ceremonies were a wash of colour and pagentry:

More will be published in the coming days. Stay tuned.

A compassionate look

2008-06-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I visited with some very good friends. The meeting was brief but the significance was profound. I've known this family for almost 20 years and it was very good to see them all gathered together. There are some new additions which fill the air with laughter and the promise of life, and this is very good.

The purpose of our visit was to celebrate life, the life of a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather who together with his wife had instilled in their children and consequently in further generations the faith that animates them even to this day. He taught them the simple truths about love, about family about welcoming strangers and making them feel at home, about building bridges and celebrating life.

Great nono as he is known to the younger generations was reunited with our creator a number of months ago, but even to his final day in this world, he continued to teach the lessons of life. As we interred his ashes yesterday, memories came flooding back about these very valuable lessons, and about his wife who he now sees face to face for all eternity. Great nono taught many lessons, including the value of compassion. None of us can live honest and truthful lives if we are not first willing to truly learn the lesson of compassion. How else would we be able to walk beside the humble, struggling with them to understand that ultimately only He can determine the length of our days, the struggles and the joys that we will encounter, and the most valuable gifts of all ... openness of heart to accept our part in the continual unfolding of the mystery we call God.

When great nona died a number of years ago, I could not be present at her parting. Instead I remember music being the key to my spiritual union with all those who bid her farewell in trust and love. This time, I am grateful to have played a very small part in the human rituals of sending great nono on his way home.

Compassion is key to living a life of faith. Without it, we can never hope to be genuine in our quest to follow in the Master's footsteps. Further reflections on this theme might very properly include a look at the special gift of the Eucharist, given for the life of the world, and the ways in which we are called to use this gift for the building up of the family of God.

Facebook for Catholics

2008-06-12T19:40:00.001-07:00

Many people may be aware of the popular networking internet page called FACEBOOK. For years, this site has offered young and older internet gurus the possibility to interact with their friends in cyberspace. Now there's another option open to Catholics who want to network with friends in a specifically Catholic environment.

George Cardinal Pell, the Archbishop of Sydney launched xt3.com today. This site which is part of the social networking that has been developed as part of the preparation for next month's World Youth Day celebrations promises to bring yet another new level of communication to life for those who will attend the WYD celebrations, as well as those who cannot physically be present, but who want to interact with other young people who are asking questions about faith, and looking for ways to find people of faith to chat with or to socialize with.

Cardinal Pell himself has reportedly joined this online community, although he professes his lack of knowledge about the online world, and he has invited 100 other young people to join him as the earliest members of this cyberspace community.

The organizing committee for the 2008 WYD gathering have introduced a number of innovations including an online registration system which allows the organizing team to maintain contact with group leaders as well as individual participants through email. Considering the fact that they are expecting approximately 250,000 participants, this is a mammoth undertaking, but so far it seems to be meeting with great success. Group leaders receive periodic updates providing information about tourism in Australia as well as reminders to make sure that their group members are properly prepared for the one-week experience which will take place in just less than 35 days' time.

The countdown is on. By now final arrangements are well underway for those who will soon be visiting down under, and the WYD gang appear to be well on their way to preparing the terrain for what promises to be one of Australia's largest gatherings ever. Throughout the history of the World Youth Days, the international gatherings have had a positive effect on stimulating interest and growth among the local Catholic populations. If the preparations which have taken place so far are any indication of the extent to which the Aussies will go to make sure that foreign visitors encounter Christ during their stay, this WYD promises to be a special encounter not only for the WYD participants, but for the local population as well.

33 days to go.

The apology

2008-06-11T18:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a very long time in coming, but finally this afternoon at 3:00 pm EDT the Prime Minister of Canada stood in the House of Commons to deliver a formal apology to the First Nations people of this country who suffered abuse during their stay at government sponsored residential schools from British Columbia to Newfoundland.

Today's apology voiced in the Canadian parliament comes only four months after a similar apology was spoken by the Prime Minister of Australia. The close proximity of these two events speaks volumes about the fact that both countries have been conscious of the betrayal that aboriginal people have had to endure during the past centuries, and the common errors which have been made throughout history by those who were involved in introducing European culture to the new world.

Surrounded by other Members of Parliament, the Prime Minister spoke to eleven aboriginal leaders who had been invited to sit in the House of Commons. They represented the various First Nations people who are found throughout the country, and whose people were forced to attend the residential schools in Canada for a period of more than 100 years, ending only in the late 1990s.

Initial reports, which have been flooding the airwaves all afternoon, speak of gratitude for the words of apology which have been so long in coming. This milestone represents a major development in the long battle for the acceptance of blame for having forced thousands of Canada's First Nations people to be re-programmed, effectively denouncing the validity of their traditional customs and beliefs.

Reactions to the apology are mixed. While some accept the Prime Minister's words with grateful hearts, others will need to test the honesty of that which has been said, and this will take place in the coming weeks and months as the fallout from this day comes to light.

The road to recovery is long, and often has many twists and turns which must be negotiated. Each person who was effected by the residential school experience, and all of their descendants will eventually have to travel that road. In the meanwhile, efforts at promoting reconciliation are well under way in many parts of Canada and are meeting with various levels of success. Now that the apology has been spoken the proverbial ball has been thrown into the courts of those who must either accept it or not.

Truth be known, this day represents a great development in the process of reconciliation. What happens next remains to be seen.

Righting the wrongs

2008-06-11T04:30:00.000-07:00

Today is a momentous day in the parliament of Canada. The Prime Minister is going to offer a former apology on behalf of the government to the First Nations people who were forced into residential schools in this country during the period from 1840 to 1996.

The official speech will be covered on CBC Radio and Television beginning at 3:00 pm EDT. In the meanwhile, there has been more than a little time devoted to spreading the news that this milestone in the recovery of so many who suffered at the hands of those responsible for the residential schools has finally arrived.

In anticipation of the apology being delivered, parliament hill is all abuzz because the procedure being put in place for the speech does not allow for public interventions on the part of any of the aboriginal leaders who will be in attendance in the House of Commons.

Over the past few years, various procedures have been put into place in an effort to bring some resolution or restitution to the alleged abuse or other harm suffered by students at residential schools in various parts of Canada. The schools were commissioned by the Federal Government and entrusted to the care of various church groups, including various Roman Catholic religious orders and the United Church of Canada.

Aside from the long-awaited apology from the Federal Government, there has been some measure of success with more informal meetings between former students in the residential schools and those who are facilitating some manner of healing. Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission has not always had an easy road to travel, but the work of making peace is proceeding albeit slowly.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, the national association of Bishops in this country greeted the formation of the TRC favorably. In fact, much work in this regard has been accomplished due to the continuing efforts put forth by various church groups. The process of reconciliation is never easy, and is most often ongoing for quite some time, however some very good signs are present: signs of peacemaking that has been a long time coming.

More on this issue to come, once the official apology has been spoken, and the fallout begins to shed its own shade of light.

FOCUS on health

2008-06-10T08:54:00.000-07:00

What happens when teachers, health care workers, members of the local police force and other interested individuals get together? The answer is, 'some pretty interesting stuff'. There were about fifteen people present as participants shared a healthy lunch and then listened to the buzz about recent happenings in the area.

The particular focus of this meeting is the health of the community, specifically various means to promote healthy living among the local population. There are many facets to promoting health including helping individuals who are food insecure to find sustainable sources of healthy meals, assisting those with chemical and drug dependencies to face the truths from which they may be hiding, and creating environments where strangers can feel welcome.

From the very beginning of the discussion, I could tell that those who were there had a keen interest in what they were doing, and that they are all devoted to promoting healthy living within their own spheres of influence. Various activities including drug awareness among youth, especially as many high school students are preparing for graduation ceremonies; planting and caring for a traditional medicine garden, using the sacred medicines known and revered by the anishanabec people; and training in adictions councelling continue to chip away at the ever-present danger of falling victim to wayward lifestyles.

In truth, it's all about providing the tools so that people can be the best at what they do and at who they are, for if we have truly learned the lessons of life, we never stop marveling at life.

Hope springs eternal

2008-06-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

In the early spring, the Canadian Cancer Society holds a major fundraising effort during which they sell dafodils. A little later in the summer, usually in June, the Cancer Society holds its annual Relay for Life.

For many years now, I have heard of the Relay which is an occasion for cancer survivors and their family and friends to commemorate those who have lost their battle with this disease, and to do something concrete to personify the hope that is always present for those who must so often watch from the sidelines while those we love suffer.

This past Friday, the annual Relay for Life was held here in Sudbury, and in most parts of Ontario. For the first time, I was able to participate. I was absolutely blown away to see the magnitude of this gathering. There was a sea of tents where some of the participants would spend the night. Fruit and water for the walkers was provided courtesy of some of the generous donors.

I arrived just in time to witness the victory lap. The overnight Relay begins with cancer survivors, adorned in yellow t-shirts, each carrying a brightly coloured balloon. Accompanied by their family and friends, the survivors walk one lap around the track and then release their balloons which float away in an explosion of colour. Participants walk laps of the track all through the night, ending at 7:00 am the next day. In the meanwhile, there is a variety of musical acts, and activities for children.

Perhaps most striking of all are the luminaries, candles which encircle the track and which are lit at dusk. The luminaries burn throughout the night as tributes to those who have lost their battle with cancer, or as tributes to those who are cancer survivors. In the case of the Sudbury Relay, luminaries were also placed in the stands overlooking the university track, spelling out the word HOPE in English, French and Ojibway.

Nestled among the tents which encircled the track, there was even a TeePee, a quiet but valuable reminder of the Ojibway First Nations who joined their prayer with ours as we all remembered loved ones who have battled cancer.

My experience of the Relay was so poignant that I reflected upon it in my weekly homily. Although I recognize that it may be very difficult for some cancer survivors to participate in the Relay, for various reasons, the truth is that this is one of the most poignant expressions of hope that I have seen because there is room for survivors, mourners and 'innocent' bystanders to participate in a physical activity while uniting their efforts and prayers for the suffering as well as for the repose of the souls of those who have died. Prayers are also offered on that night, as always, for the family and friends who must stand and watch as their loved ones battle for their lives.

What a tribute to life! What a tribute to love! What a tribute to all those who discover the true strength of love, the strength to overcome all adversity.

An attitude of gratitude

2008-06-06T04:36:00.000-07:00

There are a few cracks in the walls that are beginning to show, and if we don't do something about them, they will only continue to worsen. Don't worry, at least for the moment, they probably won't fall down, but there's not much time to consider how to fix the problem.

The metaphor of which I speak is the real problem of world hunger. For many years, some proponents have been crying the wind about the ever-present problem of world hunger, but only in recent months does it seem that hunger has become a concern on the world stage. At least there are signs that some conversation is taking place about how to address the shortage of basic staples for our ever-growing population.

One of the theories that has been advanced is that the growing concerns for bio-fuels, in an effort to be more conscious about the long-term effects of basing our entire economy on non-renewable resources, has some inherent danger built in. The efforts to grow crops for the sole use of the production of bio-fuels has resulted at least in some cases with a decreased amount of arable land that can be used for the growing of food.

Admittedly, the problem is much greater than just the issue of bio-fuels. Over the past number of years, there have been steady decreases in the subsidies offered to farmers and since the prices of grains and other commodities on the world markets have also declined, it is not economically feasible in many cases for food to be grown in vast quantities.

We can continue to debate the issue. The UN Food and Agricultural Organization's summit, which wrapped up in Rome yesterday, might actually have come up with some real solutions, but the challenge is not to identify the solutions; it's putting them into practice. In the meanwhile, the bigger picture is just beginning to emerge and the long-term effects are rather daunting.

Hunger due to rising prices is already a force to be dealt with in places such as China, India and Vietnam but there is news from Nigeria that a seminary which currently houses more than 500 priests-in-the-making may have to be closed in the coming weeks because there just isn't enough food to go around.

Some very few of us have the means and the power to make things happen on this front. For the vast majority though, we may hear the news and we may even experience it personally, but when all is said and done, there is very little that we can do other than to pray for those who are suffering. I for one have a renewed awareness of the abundance that surrounds me, and pray every day for an attitude of gratitude for all that we have been given.

The Church in the modern world

2008-06-05T04:06:00.000-07:00

Almost 43 years ago, the council fathers, gathered in Rome for the Second Vatican Council published the Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the modern world (Gaudium et Spes, literatlly translated as 'The joys and the hopes'). One of the last documents to be published before the conclusion of the Council, it outlines the pastoral plan of how the Church should move ahead, reflecting the joys that are to be recognized and celebrated and the hopes of God's people.

Since the conclusion of the Vatican Council, we have continued to struggle in various ways as we try to implement the wisdom that was discussed, gleaned and hoped for during that four-year period (the Council began in 1962 and ended in 1965). Perhaps the struggle that we have faced is not so different from that which many individuals face when we dream of the person we want to be, the person that God has in mind for us. Even if we have a good idea about who we want to be, developing the traits of that person are not always easy. There are always bumps and grinds along the way. There are often twists and turns in the road that were never anticipated, but from which we learn some valuable lessons.

In the past forty-some years, our world has evolved as well, at an ever-increasing pace. We sometimes struggle to keep up to all the changes. Technological advances and the tools at our disposal are one thing, but finding the words to speak to today's generations about the joys and hopes of today can sometimes be a much more difficult task.

Although society in general seems to be ignoring the voice of the Church in some situations, all in the name of multi-cultural inclusion, there are still many who look to the Church for guidance, and we must be willing and able to provide the inspiration; otherwise we run the serious risk of being branded as 'lukewarm'.

In just two weeks time, the 49th International Eucharistic Congress will take place in Quebec City. His Eminence, Marc Cardinal Ouellet, Archbishop of Quebec City recently voiced his own joys and hopes about the Congress. It is his fervent dream that the Congress would "draw the attention of the Catholic and secular media, so that people will realize that the Church is very much involved at the heart of the world bringing hope, love and strength to people committed to peace."

Let's all make some space in our lives for sharing good news with our world.

Enough for everyone

2008-06-04T04:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever known the pain of hunger? Has your stomach ever growled at a most inopportune time, leaving you at least somewhat embarrassed and hurrying to finish the business at hand so that you could tend to the pressing need to fill the void that is causing your digestive juices to do a dance?

Count yourself extremely lucky.

It seems strange that in today's world where some of us are surrounded by such abundance, there is still a problem of hunger in our world. Adults and children alike in places far and near just don't have enough to eat, and it's not because they choose this plight.

They say that pictures say a thousand words. One of the most graphic illustrations of the imbalance of power that exists, at least as far as access to food is concerned, can be seen in an on-line presentation entitled One Week's Worth of Food Around our Planet. Not only does this illustrate how much food we consume, but it also gives the average cost of food per week in various parts of the world. Prices are stated in local currencies and in US$ (for the sake of comparison). What I find most poignant is the disparity between the relative opulence of some tables and the stark reality that some of us have so very little. It sure makes you think, and give thanks.

The problem of world hunger is also the topic of discussion at a summit taking place in Rome this week. Representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization are there to discuss the challenges that climate change and bioenergy place on the world's food supply. As the three-day conference began yesterday, the Vatican's Secretary of State, Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone read a prepared statement on behalf of the Holy Father.

"Hunger and malnutrition are unacceptable in a world which has, in fact, levels of production, resources and knowledge sufficient to put an end to such dramas and their consequences," the Pope said. "The great challenge of today is to 'globalize,' not just economic and commercial interests, but also the call for solidarity, while respecting and taking advantage of the contribution of all components of society."

The pope called on the delegates to take action in order to guarantee a right to food for all people. He told them that it is a matter of justice that we concern ourselves with feeding all those who hunger. To do otherwise would be to deny that the primary right to food is intrinsically linked to the safeguarding and defense of human life.

The FAO summit concludes tomorrow.

On the move

2008-06-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday of this past week, the Vatican Press Office published the itinerary of the Holy Father's apostolic journey to Australia. A number of months ago, the plan to attend the 23rd World Youth Day celebrations in Sydney were confirmed, but the details of his travels have only now been made public.

Besides attending the official welcoming ceremonies on Thursday, July 17, during which he will meet more than 250,000 youth who will be on the shores of Darling Harbour in Sydney, and the overnight vigil which will take place at Randwick Racecourse on Saturday evening, he will preside at the closing liturgy which will take place at Randwick on Sunday morning, July 20.

In addition to his activities with young people, the Holy Father will benefit from his visit to Oceania to pay courtesy visits to the Governor General of Australia and to meet with representatives of other religious traditions in Sydney. He will also visit with bishops, priests and seminarians and novices from various dioceses throughout Australia.

The details of his visit in Australia are in some ways similar to his recent visit to Washington, DC and New York, when he paid visits to various representatives of other religious traditions as well as seminarians, priests, bishops and civil authorities. In truth, the pastoral visit to Australia is a continuation of the pontiff's pastoral responsibility to care for all the souls who are united in faith. Benedict XVI is continuing the commitment begun by his predecessor John Paul II toward the promotion of World Youth Day, a special international gathering of youth, but is also taking advantage of these voyages to visit with others and to build relationships with representatives of other Christian and non-Christian traditions.

Just to be clear

2008-05-31T08:08:00.000-07:00

Those who are in the media business know that you get more bang for your buck if you can time the release of a news article with some other related incident. Evidence a new release which appeared courtesy of Associated Press yesterday.

On the day when the Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests, the Vatican Press Office also issued a new statement reiterating the long-standing position of the Church on the subject of the ordination of women.

In recent years, there has been more than just a little ink spilled over the subject of women expressing their desire to be ordained as Roman Catholic priests, but the Church has never wavered from it's teaching that only baptized males can be admitted to the Order of Presbyter (Canon 1024).

In March of this year, the archbishop of St. Louis excommunicated three women - two Americans and a South African - for participating in a woman's ordination. They were part of the Roman Catholic Womenpriests movement, which began in 2002. Those who have been excommunicated cannot participate in the sacramental life of the Church unless they sincerely repent of their schismatic action and are reconciled with the Church.

Excommunication is a last-resort discipline which is only exercised in extreme situations. All attempts possible are made to reconcile the contrary views which might separate individuals or groups from union with the Church prior to the imposition of an excommunication.

Photo: William Cardinal Levada, Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith which issued the statement on Friday.

Pray for priests

2008-05-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Many years ago, I remember my grandmother displaying a picture of the Sacred Heart in her house, and making sure that we did the same. 'If we display the Sacred Heart,' she said, 'the Heart of Jesus will always keep us safe, and love will always be part of our home'. OK, maybe the wording has been modified over the years, but the sentiment remains.

Catholics celebrate the love of God today, a love which is unbounded, unbridled and dispensed freely to all of us. If we truly understood the depth of Christ's love, all other earthly beauty would pale by comparison.

For some years now, the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus has also been designated as the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests. Each year, the Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy, the Vatican Office which promotes the life and ministry of priests, publishes a letter addressed to priests. It is meant to be a reflection for priests on the effectiveness of our ministry, and perhaps a help to facilitate a kind of evaluation of what we do.

Prior to the establishment of the World Day for the Sanctification of Priests, Pope John Paul II used to publish an annual Letter to Preists which he sent on Holy Thursday, the day which has traditionally been observed as the moment when Jesus instituted the priesthood.

Today, all the faithful are called to pray for our priests. Let us ask the Lord to draw all his presbyters closer to his loving heart, and to fill us with the infinite love which allows us to act in his name.

Teaching and learning

2008-05-29T04:45:00.000-07:00

I don't remember exactly where I was or what the circumstance was, but I do recall somehow 'hearing' the advise (perhaps it was from the depths of prayer), 'Don't be afraid to show your weakness'.

At first, I must admit that I was somewhat bemused by these few words, but as the day wore on I couldn't help wondering whether there is truly some wisdom to be gleaned from them. Many of us learned from our earliest days of childhood that success and wisdom are judged by how much we know, about the world around us, about how to interpret the signs of the times, about how to make sense of stuff. Unfortunately, this world does not look kindly on those who might actually admit that we don't always have the answers to every question. To do so would indeed be a demonstration of weakness, a sure sign of failure in some people's minds.

This theory has been proven though to be somewhat inconsistent, and that's a good thing. A number of years ago, I remember once having an extraordinary opportunity to listen in person to the wisdom of Jean Vanier. Mr. Vanier, the son of the former Canadian Governor General is well known as a spiritual guru of sorts. His experience with physically and mentally challenged persons, and his own personal mediations about the value of the human person have perhaps helped many to grasp the gospel truth that all people have value in the eyes of God.

Why then is it so difficult at times for us to recognize our own weaknesses ... to see them as opportunities for grace ... to see them as doorways to the sacred truth that at times our weaknesses may actually lead us to our greatest strengths? Before we can actually learn this lesson though, we need to admit our shortcomings. We need to be humbled by our own humanity. We need to let go of our own need to succeed. This can be a very difficult road because it means that we must admit that we are weak, and we must come to grips with the fact that we don't always have all the answers.

Perhaps those of us who are called to teach the lessons of life would do well to pause now and then to reflect on the words we speak. At times, we may be wise to listen to ourselves and to dare to learn from the wisdom that is sometimes spoken as a true gift from God. Then perhaps we will begin to discover the true strength that comes from belief and faith.

Protecting the value

2008-05-28T04:46:00.000-07:00

Losing a loved one is an extremely traumatic experience. Psychologists say that there is no more devastating experience, and for the person who mourns, learning how to live with the emptiness that is left behind often takes the rest of his or her life.

One of the ways some people try to deal with this pain is to visit the graves of those who have died. Inhumation, the process of burying the dead in the earth is practiced in some parts of the world, while cultural norms also call for the use of mausolea in other places. In recent years, the practice of cremation has become more popular as an option for disposal of human remains, at least in this part of the world, but cremation has been de rigeur in parts of the Orient for centuries.

In ancient Roman times, necropoli (cities of the dead) were accorded great honor, and in some cases were decorated quite lavishly. Even today, the city of Rome is dotted with a number of these burial places. They have become tourist attractions in many cases, even within Vatican City.

A report published yesterday tells of some elaborate restoration work that has recently been completed below Saint Peter's Basilica. The object of attention in this case is the Valerii Mausoleum, a crypt which is located under the Basilica, not far from the spot where it is believed that Saint Peter's mortal remains are found. Due to the fact that there are a number of springs and other water sources flowing beneath the Basilica, the work of preserving these ancient burial sites, either for their historical or artistic value, is a constant concern to historians and property managers at the Vatican alike.

As for those who live in other parts of the world, whether the structures we create to honor and remember our deceased are permanent works of art or simply bronze plaques with simple engraving, the place where we are laid to rest should always be treated with respect, for we who live need things like physical space, designated places to focus our grief. Necropoli and burial grounds are places where the souls of the living who visit from time to time can await the resurrection of the dead.

Different, but the same

2008-05-27T14:03:00.001-07:00

In various parts of the world, people have developed different customs and practices to celebrate major milestones in our lives. In the North American society, we celebrate anniversaries of marriage, ordination or other significant life-changing moments. We also celebrate birthdays of family and friends. The established protocol in this part of the world is that friends or family members organize a party or other means of celebration to mark someone's birthday or anniversary.

By contrast, if we were born or raised in some parts of Europe, the party would be arranged by the one who is being fetted. Another major difference is that rather than celebrating birthdays, many European countries celebrate name day, the Feastday of the patron saint for whom a person was named.

In some cases, when people from these two cultures have the invaluable opportunity to learn from one another, we get that much closer to understanding one another, and to observing and celebrating according to each other's established norms.

Celebrate the significant moments in life, in your life, and in the lives of those who are dear to you. If possible, do so in person: there's no greater gift that you can give to some people than to share some of your time with them. If not, at least call, send an email or some other greeting to show how much you value the relationship.

We all have different ways of observing the moments of life. What is important is that we never lose sight of the importance of learning from the lessons life brings us. When we stop learning, life is over; if we continue to grow from these opportunities, the possibilities are endless.

Canada's newest shepherd

2008-05-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

The people at the Vatican Congregation for Bishops have been hard at work these days, and the fruit of their labour was published earlier today.

His Holiness, Benedict XVI finally accepted the resignation from pastoral governance submitted by His Excellency, Blaise Morand, who until yesterday served as Bishop of Prince Albert, SK. Bishop Morand celebrated his 75th birthday on September 12, 2007 and in accordance with the prescriptions of the Code of Canon Law (Canon 401, 1), he submitted a letter of resignation, but that letter was not officially accepted until now.

In his place, the pope has named Father Albert Thévenot, M. Afr., a Missionary of Africa or White Father who has until now served as Provincial Superior of this Order, to head the Northern-Saskatchewan diocese.

Official announcement of the appointment of the new Shepherd of the Church of Prince Albert, posted by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops

Details about the Episcopal ordination of Bishop-elect Thévenot will be announced shortly.

With this appointment, only one Canadian diocese remains vacant, although for reasons of pastoral governance, the Diocese of Yarmouth, NS is currently under the administration of the Archbishop of Halifax, His Excellency, Anthony Mancini.

Holistic healing

2008-05-23T05:42:00.000-07:00

It's been almost five years since I moved to Sudbury. For many years now, I have heard tell of the Northestern Ontario Cancer Treatment Centre and specifically about the compassion and care with which the staff treat the patients who come from near and far for the latest in treatment regimes.

I've often heard and even remarked that we don't take time to appreciate the treasures we have in our own backyards, unless we either have visitors from out of town, or in the case of the NOCTC, that we know of a person who must avail him-herself of the services there.

Physically, the building is filled with signs of attention to detail. If someone has to enter the doors for treatment, the reality of a diagnosis is enough to cause questions, worry and concern, so the building includes lots of windows, sunlight and even real plants. The staff are extremely knowledgeable but they do their work with a distinct flare for compassion, understanding and just a touch of humor. Patients who are there have enough on their minds. It's important not to ignore the science of the disease, but at the same time, a positive attitude does wonders for the spirit and gives the body unbelievable ability to face the battle.

Young children, teenagers, adults of all ages ... are all present at various times throughout the day at the NOCTC, but the spirit of tenderness, concern and love is also definitely there in abundance. We could all learn great lessons about life by spending a bit of time in a place like that. When you consider the struggles that some others must face on a daily basis, our own struggles take on a whole new meaning, and often pale in comparison, being replaced by a spirit of thankfulness for all that we have been given.

Up close and personal

2008-05-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

Last Fall, after returning from a summer vacation in Poland, I heard about a new book written by Stanislaw Cardinal Dziwisz, the former personal secretary to Pope John Paul II who is now Archbishop of Krakow. It wasn't long before I called a local book store and placed an order for the book, but little did I realize that I would have to wait more than 6 months for delivery.

The original text of the book, entitled A Life with Karol was published in Italian in 2007 so it's understandable that it took some time to do the translations into other languages. It wasn't until earlier this year that the English text was published, thus the reason for the long wait. In the end, not only did I receive two copies of the printed book, but I also received an audio copy of the same book (ordered from two different bookstores).

I'm still reading but already I know that this is a very special opportunity to glimpse the heart of the man who was called to be the successor of Peter and the Shepherd of the universal Church for more than 26 years. Cardinal Dziwisz served as personal secretary to Karol Cardinal Wojtyla for more than 40 years, so who but he would be better suited to introduce us to the heart of this most beloved pope, or to show us a very privileged glimpse at who this man was?

From the day of his election as pope, John Paul II called all the faithful to open wide the doors of our hearts to welcome the love of God. He called out to those who were oppressed because of their faith and to those who were furthest from the ideal of believing in the promise of life that had been proclaimed by Christ himself. He did so in his own personal and charismatic way, choosing to take this message of love to the ends of the world. Never afraid to allow his pastoral heart to guide his decisions and teachings, he taught by word and example about the truth of God's infinite love for each one of his beloved.

During his pontificate, John Paul was renound for his teachings. He is among the most well-published authors and promoted more individuals to the altar of sanctity than any other pope before him. His writings are currently being studied as his own cause for canonization was opened shortly after his death, but a definitive date for his beatification cannot be determined until the study of the postulator's report is complete.

Perspective

2008-05-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

University psychology majors would have a field day with some people if they really were allowed to delve below the surface and see the personalities that lie just a few fathoms below the ripples. On the outside, some people have all but mastered the art of putting on the brave face, but for a significant proportion of the population in these parts, the hidden battles rage on to find a self image that is acceptable and even pleasing.

The struggle to feel comfortable in one's own skin can lead to all kinds of other dangers: eating disorders, lack of proper exercise, vulnerability to relationships that prove to be more destructive than enhancing ... in short, the picture gets more and more cloudy the further we allow ourselves to travel down that road.

Images of physically fit and happy, healthy individuals are famous in various media, but attempts to live up to this image of perfection have led too many people into the spirals of anorexia, bulimia and other such dangers, all in the name of 'looking good' or 'fitting in' to an image that is perpetuated by the advertising world.

By contrast, the Church has always emphasized the dignity of the human person, taking the focus off such worldly dimensions as physical beauty and focusing rather on the value of each human life. Pope John Paul II was one of the most recent promoters of this teaching as was evidenced in his first encyclical letter published on March 4, 1979.

Something unique

2008-05-18T06:10:00.000-07:00

In this country, the third weekend of May, traditionally referred to as Victoria Day weekend, is the unofficial start of the summer season. Highways and byways are clogged with all manner of automobiles as people burst from the places of hybernation that have kept them confined for the better part of the winter months.

For many, the May long weekend is the official start to the camping and outdoor season, so the pews in some churches may be a little more lightly populated today. Nonetheless, there are people still coming and for this we give thanks. For this reason, we must also continue feeding with a special food that only God can give, to keep our minds focused on the true reason for our existence.

Today is Trinity Sunday. Now the whole idea of the Trinity is something foreign to people of the Jewish faith, and the Muslims would have a thing or two to say about this too. In a world where we're trying to make little steps toward understanding one another and learning to co-exist, any talk of the Trinity runs a risk of driving a wedge, but the fact is that belief in a Trinitarian God (three persons in one God) has always been central to our belief system.

Some may say that I'm taking a leap of faith, but the Church teaches that in Christian marriage, there are three individuals: the bride, the groom and Christ. If faith plays a part in moulding the person we become, then we must believe that Christ is an integral part of any relationships we may cultivate.

Do I dare postulate the possibility that married couples today can be signs to the rest of us of the Trinity alive and well in our midst? Some may argue against this theory, but if we manage to open the door and start the conversation then perhaps the work has been at least begun, and God will bring it to completion.

For more on this subject, check out the text of my homily for this weekend. The podcast people seem to be asleep these days. Since last Sunday, I've been unable to post the audio versions of homilies, but we're working on that glitch. As soon as it's rectified, you'll have more than enough to listen to.

Help for families

2008-05-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

Canada is not the only country where the traditional fabric of the nuclear family has been threatened in recent times. It seems that the number of lasting marriages in today's society is becoming more and more a dream, but what's surprising is that at least in some places, many are still celebrating this sacrament. Over the past three summers, the number of weddings celebrated in this parish have been constantly on the upswing.

The old saying is true, 'it takes an entire village to raise a child' ... and to nurture young couples who are venturing out in the first stages of married life. Like all new beginnings, young married couples naturally look to parents, friends and mentors for assistance as they gain their 'sea legs' in the early years of their life together.

Although they were greeted with very different welcomes, and at different periods in the life of the Church, the documents Humanae Vitae and the Charter of the Rights of the Family are both intended to assist newlyweds and established families to grow in their understanding and appreciation of the special call which has been entrusted to them, and the role that they play in proclaiming God's presence in the world.

The Holy Father himself quoted both these documents in his recent speech to the Forum of Family Associations and the European Federation of Catholic Family Associations who are participating in the Alliance for the Family in Europe, Associations in the Leading Role conference.

Families are only one of the threads in the fabric of society which the Church continues to proclaim as integral to the survival of the human race as we know it. They provide stability for spouses, guidance for children and teenagers, and sources of joy, celebration and support for all those who seek answers to life's questions.

Eucharist linked to marriage