Social Justice Thought For The Week

"We have a lot of work to do. Every time we reach out and assuage someone's hunger, and do that in memory of Jesus, a sense of Eucharist will bring to consciousness the Spirit and the real presence of Jesus - in us, through us, among us. That Spirit alone is capable of transforming the world and us." Miriam Therese Winter, MMS

DOW Youth eNews May 2009

News for Young People in the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong Welcome to our May 2009 edition of the Youth eNewsletter. It has been almost four months since I began in the role of Diocesan Youth and Young Adult Coordinator, taking over the reigns from Christy Honeysett. In those few months I have been spending time visiting schools, parishes and Youth Groups - and there are still so many more to to see.  As most Youth Groups meet on a Friday night it is taking time to pop in on all the groups, it would be so handy to have about four Fridays a week!  If I haven't caught up with your group yet, give me a buzz and arrange a time - I'd love to visit and meet you all.  It is exciting to be able to tell you that since the start of the year we have 3 new Youth Groups; Dapto, Shellharbour and Ruse and Port Kembla is almost ready to kick off! Welcome guys, it's great to have you on board! Some of you would have been at our World Youth Day'09/Palm Sunday celebrations at the Wollongong Cathedral and despite the internet gremlins that prevented us from crossing live to the Handover of the WYD Cross and Icon, we still managed to celebrate together as we turned our focus towards Madrid 2011.  Also, on that night the new members of the Wollongong Diocesan Council for Young People were commissioned by Bishop Peter. This Council is already hard at work and are busy making plans for the future of Youth Ministry in our Diocese. Listed below are a smorgasbord of things to get involved in and there are lots more on the drawing board, so keep your eyes peeled!  Hint: Keep August 21-22 free! :) If you would like to contact me at any stage please feel absolutely welcome to do so, I'm here to help.  You can call me on 4253 0809 or email me at youth@dow.org.au or find me on Facebook - I'd love to hear from you! Peace, Loretta Brinkman FREE TICKETS TO SEE MATT MAHER LIVE! Matt Maher is returning to Sydney to celebrate the 1st anniversary of WYD'08. Matt uses his music and the witness of his faith to encourage young people to deepen their relationship with God and follow God's call in their life. Wollongong Diocese has some complimentary tickets for his Sydney concerts, so if you'd like to come along (Friday, 3 July: 6:30-9:00pm @ Ashfield) or have any other questions, contact Loretta on 4253 0809 or email youth@dow.org.au.  Buses are also being organised (for a small fee) and will depart from Albion Park and Campbelltown. ANCHOR CAMP - THE EDGE Looking for something to do the first week of the holidays? Do you wnat to hang out with other cool teenagers like you? Want to get out of the house during your time away from school? Then we have the answer! Anchor Camp is run by the Wollongong Youth Mission Team with loads of fun, sport, talks, prayer, food, games and tonnes more! Where: TheVENUE Conference Centre, Cawley Street, Bellambi When: 10-12 July 2009 For more info. and to register: wollongong@ymt.com.au or call Trish on 0433 636 359 The first 10 registrations receive a free ticket to the Matt Maher Experience 6 June BIBLICAL SPIRITUALITY - LIVING A LIFE OF FAITH TODAY Author and scripture scholar, Barbara Bowe rscj, joins us from the United States to share her insights in a reflective day at St Mary's Star of the Sea College in the Library. 10.00am to 3.00pm. Contact Richard McMahon on 4253 0976.   30 June YEAR OF ST PAUL NATIONAL E-CONFERENCE The Bishops' Commission for Mission and Faith Formation in conjunction with The Broken Bay Institute present St Paul - The Man, his mission and message today! Presenters - Brendan Byrne SJ, Michelle Connolly RSJ and Richard Leonard SJ. The conference is live streamed and will be presented at Catholic Church Offices, 86-88 Market Street, Wollongong and Magdalene College, Smeaton Grange Road, Narellan. 10.00am - 4.00pm. Contact Richard McMahon on 4253 0976.   2 - 3 July NATIONAL STEWARDSHIP CONFERENCE - LIVING OUR CALL TO DISCIPLESHIP International guest speaker, Leisa Anslinger, offers participants insights and formation into how to live as a Christian in today's world. She is joined with Australian diocesan and parish representatives who share how stewardship is enriching our faith communities. Stewardship has been recognised as a way of life for many people around the world who want a simple and meaningful way of following Jesus Christ.   There is both an introductory and advanced stream offered at the Campbelltown Catholic Club venue. Cost: $250 (excludes $50 conference dinner). Accommodation, if required, offered at discounted rate. For more information contact Helen Bennett on 4253 0934 or helen.bennett@woll.catholic.org.au.   4 July VATICAN II SEMINAR FORMING GENEROUS HEARTS Leisa Anslinger, our international guest, explores principles of parish life that lead to living discipleship and stewardship. Drawing upon the vision of Sacred Scripture and Church documents, we look at effective pastoral practices that contribute to forming generous hearts in individuals and the community of faith. Experience the the beautiful grounds and hospitality of Chevalier College, Bowral. 10.00am to 3.00pm.   BEGINNING THEOLOGY For those seeking to deepen their understanding of their faith, Beginning Theology offers a strong foundation. You require no formal theological background. There are four easy to follow modules and is designed for home study but with regular meetings of participants in small groups with a mentor. Accreditation is offered at Certificate III level. The course is used nationally and facilitated via the Institute of Faith Education in Brisbane. Interested people should contact Richard McMahon on 4253 0976 to find out more about course fees, locations and additional information.

 

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, defend the rights of those who have nothing. Speak up and judge fairly, and defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31:8-9)

Alpha Continues This Sunday

Alpha continues this Sunday night 24th May at 6pm in the Hall.

This week: Why Did Jesus Die? How Can I Be Sure of My Faith?

Cardinal George Pell's Media Release on 21 May 2009

Statement on the report of the Commission into Child Abuse in Ireland

By + Cardinal George Pell
Archbishop of Sydney
21 May 2009

I have only read the Executive Summary (and a few other sections) of the Irish report of the Commission into Child Abuse which deals mainly with physical cruelty, sexual abuse, neglect and emotional abuse in institutions for children from 1936 -1970 perpetrated by priests, brothers and nuns.

It is grim reading. Sexual and physical abuses are crimes. I was deeply moved by the brutality and cruelty suffered by the children.  The only way forward is to acknowledge the wrongs that have been, to institute just procedures to process the complaints (where this has not been done), to offer help to healing and compensation. Sincere apologies have to be offered.

Please God this will be the beginning of the end of a sad and shameful period in the Catholic Church in Ireland.  The Irish Church leadership is facing up to the past and they now face the difficult task of working towards the future.

The report will be examined thoroughly by us for any links to clergy or members of religious orders in Australia, and whatever needs to be done in the Sydney Archdiocese, and indeed more widely in Australia, will be done to bring justice to victims.

Ireland is not Australia.  In 1996 Catholic bishops and religious orders in Australia established the Towards Healing protocol to investigate allegations of sexual abuse in the Church, and to provide support, pastoral care and justice to victims.  This work continues.

The Catholic Church in Australia will continue to accept its responsibilities toward victims of sexual abuse, and I encourage anyone who may have been abused by a Catholic priest or a member of a religious order to contact the police or the Towards Healing contact line (1300 369 977).

---

To view archived Addresses, Homilies, Media Releases and Sunday Telegraph Columns of Cardinal George Pell, please visit www.sydney.catholic.org.au


Catholic Communications
Level 15, 133 Liverpool St
Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: (02) 9390 5300
Fax: (02) 9390 5306

BEGINNING THEOLOGY INFORMATION SESSIONS

Thursday, 21 May

BEGINNING THEOLOGY INFORMATION SESSIONS

Do you want to study your faith at a deeper level? This certificate level course requires no 
previous theological background. Find out more at information sessions held on
Thursday, 21 May 2009 at Albion Park, St Paul's Parish meeting room, 10.30am – 12.30pm
and Campbelltown, St John the Evangelist Parish hall, 7.30pm – 9.00pm. 
Contact Jane Edwards on 4253 0900.

More details in the attached brochure

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Let us love one another, because love comes from God." (1 John 4:7)

FAITH & LIFE EVENTS - REMINDER

Dear Friend in Faith

I offer a reminder of some of the special events coming up in our diocese over the next couple of months.

I hope you may be able to attend some of these offerings.

Please RSVP as it assists with catering and set up.

We also depend on you to communicate these offerings to others in your own network.

Thank you for your support.

Peace

Richard McMahon
Director of Parish Services, Office of the Bishop
Catholic Diocese of Wollongong

Thursday, 21 May
BEGINNING THEOLOGY INFORMATION SESSIONS
Do you want to study your faith at a deeper level? This certificate level course requires no
previous theological background. Find out more at information sessions held on
Thursday, 21 May 2009 at Albion Park, St Paul's Parish meeting room, 10.30am – 12.30pm
and Campbelltown, St John the Evangelist Parish hall, 7.30pm – 9.00pm. 
Contact Jane Edwards on 4253 0900.

 Saturday, 23 May
Justice, Peace, Ecology and Faith Gathering
"To act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8 
What are the issues affecting our diocese and wider world in the areas of justice, peace and ecology?  How are we called to respond in faith as individuals and communities? What support is available?  Gather with our Diocesan Justice, Ecology and Peace Council to share our wisdom and consider the way forward.  3 Bond Street, Bellambi, 23 May, 10.00am – 12.30pm with morning tea.
RSVP to Jane Edwards on 4253 0900 or jane.edwards@woll.catholic.org.au

Saturday, 6 June
BIBLICAL SPIRITUALITY, LIVING A LIFE OF FAITH TODAY
Presented by international guest speaker Barbara Bowe rscj, Professor of Biblical Studies, Boston College. Saturday, 6 June 2009, St Mary Star of the Sea College Library, Wollongong.  10.00am – 3.00pm.   Gold coin donation.  Please bring own lunch.  RSVP jane.edwards@woll.catholic.org.au or 4253 0900.

Tuesday, 30 June
YEAR OF ST PAUL NATIONAL E-CONFERENCE
The Man, his mission and message today presented by Brendan Byrne SJ, Michelle Connolly RSJ and Richard Leonard SJ. 10.00am – 4.00pm. 
TWO VENUES: Catholic Church Offices, 86-88 Market St, Wollongong
RSVP jane.edwards@woll.catholic.org.au OR
Magdalene Catholic High School (Library), Smeaton Grange Road, Narellan
RSVP jane.mcdonald@ceowoll.catholic.edu.au .  Please bring your own lunch.
Gold coin donation.

Thursday 2 & Friday 3 July
STEWARDSHIP – TWO DAY CONFERENCE
Stewardship continues to inspire people across Australia in their life of faith.
It offers a down to earth way of responding to God in our everyday life.
The two day conference at Campbelltown Catholic Club offers two streams,
one to those starting the stewardship journey, the other for those who are already
living stewardship as a way of life. This national event draws upon the international
experience of Leisa Anslinger, as well as experienced presenters from our Australian context.
Cost $250.00 excluding accommodation.
Contact Helen Bennett on 4253 0934 for more information.

Saturday, 4 July
FORMING GENEROUS HEARTS – IN THE SPIRIT OF VATICAN II
Presented by international guest speaker, Leisa Anslinger who will explore principles of parish life that lead to living discipleship and stewardship and look at effective pastoral practices that contribute to forming generous hearts in individuals and the community of faith. This day continues our seminars in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. All welcome at Chevalier College, Bowral, 10.00am – 3.00pm.  $30.00/$15.00 or by donation.  Morning tea and lunch included. 
RSVP ESSENTIAL – contact Jane Edwards on 4253 0900 or email jane.edwards@woll.catholic.org.au

CONTACT DETAILS
Catholic Diocese of Wollongong
Marian Centre, 86-88 Market Street, Wollongong
PO Box 1239, Wollongong NSW 2500
http://www.dow.org.au
Tel: +61 2 4253 0900
Email: info@dow.org.au

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same". Nelson Mandela

The Cardinal Newman Society Update - Video Message from Fr. Corapi

Notre Dame ora pro nobis! May 7, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As May 17 approches, it is now almost certain that the University of Notre Dame will violate the Bishops' clear prohibition against honoring pro-abortion leaders at Catholic institutions - ignoring the pleas of nearly 70 Catholic bishops and more than 350,000 of you! So what are we to do?  Right now, as Bishop Wenski, of Orlando said in his Mass of reparation, "I am not going to send upset Catholics to storm Notre Dame with pitchforks, I am going to tell them to pray." In that same spirit let us pray for the graduating seniors, Notre Dame and the renewal of faithful Catholic higher education in our country. If you are near South Bend, graduates of Notre Dame who oppose the commencement honor have invited others to join them in adoration, Mass and prayer at Notre Dame's Campus.  For details please visit their website: NDResponse.com With gratitude for your witness of the Catholic faith, Fr. John Corapi has taped the following message about what the scandal at Notre Dame means for our faith and the importance of not giving up the fight. CLICK HERE for the Video Message from Fr. John Corapi Please forward this to your friends and remember to pray for Notre Dame.  For ongoing updates or if you are unable to view the video in this message please go to NotreDameScandal.com In Christ, Patrick J. Reilly President The Cardinal Newman Society   PS: Please help us in our 16 year fight to renew Catholic higher education by making a donation and becoming a member here.

Who is Jesus

Who is Jesus? - Alpha

- Video presentation by Nicky Gumbel

- Discussion Groups

- Suitable for all Christians

- Supper

Where: St John's Hall

            Cordeux St, Campbelltown

When:  Sunday, 10th May

             6pm-8pm

Brought to you by FaithworX

Who is Jesus

Parish Bulletin 3 May 2009

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST PARISH CAMPBELLTOWN

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

PARISH TIMETABLE THIS WEEK

MONDAY           9:30 am Mass 

           

TUESDAY  9:30 am Mass  

         

WEDNESDAY     9:30 am Mass

         

THURSDAY        9:30 pm Mass  

FRIDAY             8:30am  Mass 

SATURDAY    8:00am Mass 

SACRAMENT OF  RECONCILIATION    11:30am – 12:30pm             5:00pm –   5:30pm

    

                           FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER 

VIGIL     Saturday 6:00pm

SUNDAY     Masses at 7:30am; 9:00am, 10:30am & 5pm

CHILDREN’S LITURGY 9.00 am Mass 1^st, 2^nd & 3^rd Sundays

  

 

PROPAGATION OF THE FAITH SUNDAY

 

TUESDAY ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT: Please note there will be NO Adoration THIS Tuesday 5 May. Adoration will resume on Tuesday 12 May at 1pm.

 

CATHOLIC WOMENS LEAGUE monthly meeting THIS Wednesday 6 May at 7:30pm in the Parish Hall.  ALL WELCOME 

PARISH HISTORY:  A history of St. John the Evangelist Church is being compiled and we need your help.  If you have any memorabilia that relates to  the Church you can leave photos, newspaper clippings, pamphlets or other interesting things at the Presbytery, where a copy will be made and the original returned.  For details contact Anthony Edwards on 4626 2413. 

 CATHOLIC WOMENS LEAGUE will be holding their Annual Mothers Day Raffle THIS WEEKEND at all Masses.

 FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2009 – A Parent Night for those children who received their First Reconciliation last year and will be receiving their First 

 Holy Communion this year will be held on Tuesday 12 May at 7:30pm in the Church. This will be the ONLY meeting held for this purpose and at least one

 Parent  MUST be present.

 CALLING ALL YOUNG ADULTS:  The CYC is a group of 16 to 25 year old Catholics who share friendship and grow together.  You are urged to

 join this exciting group.  We meet TONIGHT (Sunday) at 6pm in the Parish Hall.  Enquiries to Erin Byrnes 0431 238 119. 

 PLEASE PRAY FOR: FRANK XUEREB; JOHN PUTHENEKEL;  who died recently and for JOAN MORTIMER; MARIAN DUNN; KYMM CLARKE;          SAMUEL & SADIE MIR; NORMAN MIR  whose anniversaries occur at this time. 

 SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM:  We welcome and pray for CHARLES  ALBERT BUTLER; COOPER JAMES GILBANG; JACOB PRAVIN KEDARI; DANIEL JAMES SANCHEZ-YOUNG;  who were baptized in our Parish recently.

FaithWorX is continuing the short Alpha course Sunday 10 Mayl at 6:30pm  in the Parish Hall.  This is a thought provoking look at how Christ is relevant today. Nibbles are served from 6pm.  

SOCIAL JUSTICE THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

     “Now the strongest bond of true friendship is charity, and the exercise of good charity is the practice of good works.”  Blessed Frederic Ozanam,Principal Co-Founder of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

PARISH TRIVIA NIGHT, organised by the Parish Council, on the Eve of  Pentecost, 30 May, 7pm – 10:30pm  in the Hall.  There will be music, fun and game, food, tea, coffee. All ages welcome. Please fill in your details on form in Church Porch. For catering purposes and more information please contact Del Edwards (02) 4626 2413.

JOIN OUR PARISH WEBSITE TEAM:  We need people with the skills to increase our Website profile.   Ring the Presbytery – 4625 8044.

PATRICIAN BROTHERS’ COLLEGE, FAIRFIELD: Old Boys’ Reunion, Friday 29 May at 7pm at Fairfield R.S.L.  Ring Bob (4655 9028) or Leah (9728 4488)

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Now the strongest bond of true friendship is charity, and the exercise of good charity is the practice of good works."
Blessed Frederic Ozanam, Principal Co-Founder of the St Vincent de Paul Society