A Focus on VolunteersEvery year on Good Friday we refl ect on the role given to Simon of Cyrene. He is forced to lend assistance to Jesus who is struggling under the weight of the cross. It is the only time that Simon is mentioned in the Scriptures. We are not told if Simon’s life was changed because of that moment of being so close to Jesus. It could be said that Simon took the place of all the male disciples who had abandoned Jesus. Certainly he relieved Jesus of some of the agony of the hour. Our imagination prompts us to consider Simon of Cyrene as being the patron saint of all volunteers.

Our nation and our church are blessed by the contribution of the many people who carry the title of being volunteers. The success of the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000 and more recently of the Commonwealth Games has been attributed to the generosity and to the enthusiasm of the many who gave freely of their time and their talents. Earlier this year, we admired the response of the hundreds of women and men who without any recompense fought the horrifi c bushfi res.

As can be seen in this issue of Our Diocesan Community, the spirit of service and voluntary participation in the life of school, parish and the wider community is very strong. Also, it is true to say that the parishes and the schools of our Diocese would grind to a halt were it not for the willingness of those many volunteers who carry out all kinds of service with good will and humour day after day and year after year. Like Simon of Cyrene, they too are walking very close to Christ and are bearers of the Good News. Let us salute them and thank God for their willingness to live in accord with the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love.For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen

Bishop Peter Connors

OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY

news and views from around the Diocese No. 17. Winter 2006

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITYCATHOLICDIOCESE

ofBALLARAT

We are the Catholic Church in the Ballarat Diocese.We gather in the name of Jesus from the Murray to the Sea

in interwoven faith communities.Spirit-filled - we celebrate and share our journey

reaching out to nurture all God’s people. Draft Vision Statement for the Diocese 2005

Our Diocesan Community - June 20062 Our Diocesan Community - June 20062

ON BEING A VOLUNTEER!This year, we have seen volunteering reach new heights in Victoria with the advent of the hugely successful Commonwealth Games, in which some 15,000 volunteers willingly gave of their time and talents in over 400 different roles, to ensure that everything went smoothly and effi ciently. Participation varied from just one shift at Games time, to involvement over a two year period in the lead up to what was the largest sporting and cultural festival this State has ever seen, surpassing even the 1956 Olympic Games, during which I was Accountant at the Athletes’ Village in the former PMG Training School in Gillies Street, Wendouree.

In my case, I was involved as a volunteer with the Commonwealth Games from December 2004 until the completion of the Games, initially in the Volunteer Centre, helping to recruit other volunteers, then working for the Workforce Manager as a Team Leader at the Uniform and Accreditation Centre (UAC), and fi nally in my Games-time role as a Fleet Mini Bus Driver based at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre (EXC). I also had the great honour bestowed on me in March, 2005 of being selected as Offi cial Volunteer No. 1.

Now that the Games are over, it is probably an appropriate time to refl ect on what motivated me to devote many hundreds of hours of my time, not to mention considerable expense, to participate in this major event. The major factors which motivated me were -

1. I am now sixty-seven years of age, and in the happy position of being retired and of independent means. I therefore had the time and resources available to do it.2. My community has been very good to me over the years, and I consider that it is appropriate to share

whatever talents and abilities I may have with that community.3. I believe that in my retirement it is of the utmost importance to stay connected with that community, rather

than just sitting around at home ‘twiddling my thumbs’ in my latter years.4. A health scare in 2005 caused me to refl ect upon my whole life and future. 5. Throughout my adult life I have frequently been a volunteer, having been involved with Mount Clear Primary

School, Wendouree Apex Club, Ballarat Y’s Men’s Club and Probus. In addition to my Commonwealth Games commitments, I am also currently a volunteer at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Ballarat Light Opera Company, Royal South Street Society and Deloraine Rotary Club’s Tasmanian Craft Fair.

Volunteering has given me a purpose in my retirement, as I feel I have a lifetime of experience to share with others. Working at the Games was a fantastic experience, and one I will never forget as long as I live, as I was able to meet many wonderful people, including not only other volunteers, but athletes, team offi cials and technical offi cials, as well as paid staff and spectators. I enjoyed every second of it, despite the long hours (up to 13 hours a day), extensive travelling and hard work. The Mini Bus Drivers were a very small group of just 30 or so people out of a total workforce of about 1,700 Drivers, and we became a very close knit, cohesive group with a tremendous camaraderie, to the point where we even have developed our own web site in order to keep in touch with one another.

I certainly couldn’t have done it without the wholehearted support of my wife, Kathy and our three children and their partners, with whom I stayed in Melbourne during the whole of March 2006. Should a similar opportunity arise in the future, I would have no hesitation in doing it all again. Peter Pollard

FORUM FOR LEADERSOn Sunday 30th April, forty eight people gathered at St Mary’s School in Sea Lake to attend a forum for leaders of Sunday Assemblies of the Word and Communion. The following Sunday, 7th May, twenty six people came together at St. Michael’s and St John’s Parish Centre for the same reason. The members of communities from Ouyen, Sea Lake, Nandaly, Culgoa, Quambatook, Nullawil, Hopetoun, Warracknabeal, Apsley, Edenhope, Beaufort, Banyena, Dimboola, Lake Bolac, Natimuk, Minyip and Beulah were led through a process of refl ection on and preparation for Sunday liturgies celebrated without a priest. The groups shared their own experiences of preparing and leading Sunday Liturgies, and attended workshops on scripture, music and preparation approaches led by Fr Kevin Lenehan, Sr. Patricia Day, Fr John McKinnon and Sue Crowe. A meal was shared during the day and the gathering ended with Evening Prayer of the Church. It is hoped to repeat these gatherings annually. Sue Crowe – Diocesan Liturgical Commission

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 3Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 3

A Visit to RomeMy name is Claire Bruty. I recently represented the Ballarat Diocese in Rome as part of the Australian Delegation sent to receive the Cross and Icon for the next World Youth Day which is to be held in Sydney in 2008. World Youth Day is a signifi cant event for Catholic Youth worldwide which is held internationally every 2-3 years.

The WYD cross and icon have been present at each International WYD since Pope JP2 started the initiative in 1986 in his desire to bring Catholic Youth together from around the world. The WYD cross is made of wood and stands 3.2m high. The WYD icon is a portrait of our Lady holding the baby Jesus. handed over during the At the Palm Sunday mass celebrated by His Holiness, Pope Benedict 16th, at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome the Icon and the Cross were handed on from the German Youth who hosted WYD last year (in 2005) to us, the Australian Youth, who will be hosting WYD in 2008. This signifi cant event marked the beginning of preparations for the 2008 WYD in Australia. It is hoped that the Sydney WYD will spark a new light in Australia, bringing Youth back to the Church and enabling them to be part of this amazing, life changing, spiritual experience.

Rome is a spiritual city which holds such signifi cance in the history of our faith. During my time in Rome I was fortunate enough to attend masses celebrated by His Holiness, Cardinal Pell and by Bishop Anthony Fisher from Sydney. I was able to visit the major Basilicas in Rome and was also given ample opportunity for prayer and refl ection. One special memory for me was celebrating Good Friday in ‘Santa Croce of Jerusalem’. Santa Croce holds the relics of the cross on which Jesus

was crucifi ed. I was able to kneel on the ‘Holy Stairs’ which have been built over the wooden stairs Jesus’ walked up to Pilate after he was scourged. The stairs were moved to where they sit in Rome today from their original location, and actually hold a trace of the blood of our Lord. Amongst other sites I visited were the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museum and Pope JP2’s tomb. I was fortunate enough to celebrate the Easter Vigil with His Holiness in St Peter’s Basilica and was within arms reach of him as he walked up the aisle.

This experience has further strengthened my faith and has rekindled my love for Christ. It has inspired me to want to reach out more to Youth in our Diocese, to bring Catholic Youth together and to deepen our faith. It has made me realise just how important faith is, how much Jesus loved us to die for us and to save us. He calls us to set an example as Christians and his Disciples and to spread the Good News to others. As Pope Benedict 16th said in concluding his homilies at the Palm Sunday Mass “…let us pray that…he will open our hearts so that, following the (WYD) cross, we become messengers of his love and peace.”

In the lead-up to WYD 2008, the WYD Cross and Icon will visit our Diocese in 2007. Other events for Catholic Youth to become involved with will also be held as WYD 2008 draws closer, so look out for these during the next couple of years and contact me if you have input, enquiries or ideas to assist youth ministry throughout our Diocese. Bishop Connors has my number.

Claire Bruty

calls us to set an example as Christians and his Disciples and to spread

Something to Pray For . . . Forty years ago Pope John reminded the world of the Four Pillars of Peace. They are the basis of right order in our world.

It is an order that is founded on TRUTH, built up on JUSTICE, nurtured and ani-mated by CHARITY and brought into ef-fect under the auspices of FREEDOM

Pope John Paul 2nd refl ected on Blessed John 23rd’s Four Pillars of Peace in this way:

TRUTH will build peace if every individual sincerely acknowledges not only his rights, but also his own duties towards others JUSTICE will build peace if in practice everyone respects the rights of others and actually fulfi ls his duties towards them. LOVE will build peace if people feel the needs of others as their own and share what they have with others. FREEDOM will build peace and make it thrive if, in the choice of the means to that end, people act according to reason and assume responsibility for their own actions.

At this time of PENTECOST we might express our hope for our world, that we may re-establish the divine order in our own hearts and in our world. As we long for peace we remember our brothers and sisters of all faiths - and none - who share our longings and this is whay we pray:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;where there is darkness, light;

and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek

to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand;

to be loved as to love.For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to

eternal life. Amen

4 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

A Parish without a Resident PriestThe parish of Birchip has been without a resident parish priest for a number of years. Parishioner Maureen Donnellon shares this refl ection on the developments and diffi culties since that time.

In 1995 our complacency was shattered in Birchip when we found ourselves without a resident Parish Priest. Luckily, Fr. Les Sheahan from Wycheproof and Fr. Pat Flanagan from Donald re-arranged their schedules over the years to see that we still had Sunday Mass and one weekday Mass and for some years one Sunday per month was a Sunday Assembly of Word and Communion until Fr. Marcello Colasante from Donald was appointed our Parish Priest this year. We now alternate with Donald for 8.30 and 10.30 am Masses. Fortunately, we have had a parish liturgy group since the 1960‘s which has continued to function, helping to organise readers, Easter and Christmas liturgies, and rosters and other events in the parish liturgical calendar.

The parish was prepared in 1995 for the celebration of Lay-led liturgies to meet the possible loss of regular Sunday Mass. Initially we wondered about the reaction of older parishioners to this innovation, but they were people who had grown up with Mass once a month or even less frequently, and were very accepting. Generally, people wanted to come together to pray in their own parish rather than scatter as they felt it would be hard to get people back if things changed again. And so Sunday Assemblies of Word and Communion became a regular part of the Sunday worship in our parish. Being part of a lay-led team is one of the best ways I know for learning about the readings, the messages behind them, and realising how much the Mass really means to us.

In 1996, two Sisters of Mercy, Srs. Pat Ryan and Sheila Belleville were appointed to take up residence in the parish and they encouraged us to continue the Sunday Assemblies after they arrived. A lot of extra work was done by the school when we were fi rst without a priest, and people were always ringing to have items put on the Bulletin, check times for Mass, enquire about baptisms etc. The school secretaries did a lot of this work. Several meetings of the Parish Council were held to arrange for Srs. Sheila and Pat to take up residence. There was the worry that two people would cost more than one, and that there would not be enough for them to do. Both Sisters were from different Mercy Congregations so it was a new move all around. How wrong we were to worry. Both Sisters were a tower of strength, and lived cheaper than one! Sheila and Pat brought a wealth of wisdom to the Parish Council, School Board, Regional Catholic Community, St. Vincent de Paul, and Liturgy Group, as well as I.H.O.M. Parents and Friends, and the wider Birchip community. Sheila was appointed Parish Administrator as well as Canonical Administrator of I.H.O.M. School from 1996 to 2001. She prepared the church bulletins, liturgy meetings, prepared couples for marriage, organised baptisms and helped in the sacramental preparation at Watchupga. She and Pat also organised all the day to day things to keep the Church going. When Sr. Pat retired to Mildura in 2003, Sr. Sheila took on Pat’s extra roles which included hospital visitation almost every day, liturgies at Wirrim Lodge, meals-on-wheels rosters, community housing, offi ciating at funeral, preparing funeral liturgies, and after the school closed in 2001 she organised the Sacramental program with parent helpers. She facilitated Lenten and Liturgical discussion groups, as well as joining St. Vincent de Paul, and C.W.L. and continuing to do the books and all the other tasks such as the gardening, and dealing with the everlasting phone calls and enquiries. Sheila realised that she wouldn’t be around forever so she began organising all the resources and tasks down to the last detail so that the parish could run smoothly when there was to be a change. Of course both Sisters had taken on too many tasks, and we had let them, so the ball has rolled back on our court now.

We have come full circle in some ways, but we do now have a Parish Priest again following Sr. Sheila’s retirement. Fr. Marcello has taken a much more “hands on” role than Fr. Flanagan needed to, with Sheila as Administrator. The Parish Council continues as usual and St. Vincent de Paul members visit the hospital more than ever and organize the service at Wirrim Lodge sometimes. They also assist with funeral preparation. The Liturgy Group now has only three members, and we have already begun to understand how much Sr. Sheila did for us. Preparing the Easter ceremonies and fi nding all the readers, special ministers etc. needed for Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Saturday Vigil is indeed a big task. Our parish is smaller, with many of our regular ministers having left Birchip, or now on the Heavenly roster, and since the school closed, several families have faded from the scene although still in Birchip. All who are on rosters now take more turns than before. The Sacramental program has been successful and the school buildings are still used for R.E., Playgroup, Bodyball and P-12 school exams, amongst other things.

We have two organists and we are training some young people to use the overhead projector. We also are very lucky to have several young families who are very good with readings, Prayers of the Faithful, and running the Sacramental program, so we are not relying entirely on older parishioners. One of the younger mums has taken on organising the Sunday rosters, an organist does the weekly bulletin, and the Liturgy group has a lot more to do. Sheila always had a spare set of Prayers of the Faithful in her pocket! One of us does now. We have the Baptismal programme on our Liturgy Group lists, promotion of Project Compassion, Lenten groups, keeping an eye on things inside the Church such as linen, brass, posters, candles, and items which may need maintenance. We have a choir of all ages practising for Easter. I had to make the ashes this year, and I think Father was not as impressed as he could have been, as they were very black! I think he said “What did you do to them”? We have run out of wine before Mass, nearly run out consecrated hosts, and read the wrong readings. There will be a lot more slip-ups in the future, I expect, but we will soldier on.

It is sad to see our parish house used only for meetings and overnight stays by Fr. Marcello. There isn’t very often a welcoming face at the door when we arrive. There is a room full of labelled drawers and shelves full of resources to help, but no one to help us with them in residence. With such small populations, it’s not easy being on a committee in either Birchip, Watchem or Watchupga, but that’s the way it is. However I’m sure the sharing of our experiences would be of benefi t to many congregations. I worry about our future. It concerns me that city parishes still have several Masses, seemingly many helpers, and priests in residence. I wonder if they know how tough it is in the country. My personal view is that we need to have some kind of system in place for the future as we don’t seem to be over-loaded with priests down the track and participation in Sunday Assemblies would ease the problem of “supply” priest which can only increase in the future.

Maureen Donnellan (Adapted from the Donald parish “Grapevine”)

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Our VolunteersAt Our Lady Help of Christians School in East Warrnambool we are fortunate to have a large number of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, and I am not just including our parent community. We have a quite a large number of parishioners who freely give of their time on a regular basis to help in a variety of ways at school. Philomena, Helen, Sonia, Genevieve, Anne, Geraldine to name a few, with no direct connection to the school, turn up week in, week out to lend a hand in the classroom, with sporting activities, on excursions etc. These parishioners are much loved by the children that they work with regularly and provide another avenue for a caring relationship to develop. The staff at OLHC is greatly indebted to these volunteers and appreciative of the interest shown by parishioners in our school.

Eugene Dalton – OLHC East Warrnambool

Youth Week in Robinvale

During Youth Week, April 3rd – 7th, 2006 at St Mary’s School in Robinvale, many activities took place. Some of the activities involved a “RADIO STATION” over the school PA system which was called “LIVE 8s” at 92.1 mix FM. Some of the programming on the radio station were interviews with some of the staff about their youth, also the latest music and roving interviewers. At lunchtime on Thursday, Jonathan Davoli, Matthew Davoli, Albert Gorman and George Contis (7/8 students) cooked a barbeque for all the staff and visitors. We had sausages, tomatoes, onions and chillies with sauce. At lunchtime on Friday, the last day of Youth Week, there was a carnival atmosphere. We had Monica Gill, Laura Parker and Laura Camera (students) that dressed up as clowns. We also had bocce, quoits, skipping and chalk drawing and an outside broadcast of “LIVE 8s” radio show. The main attraction of the day was the ice cream stall, which was run by the Year 8 girls. Youth Week was indeed a great success. The End

Created by Jonathan Davoli and Fabian Cardin

HELPING OUTEarlier this year, our Year 9 students travelled to the fi re affected areas near Moyston and Pomonal to assist in the big clean up. The group worked enthusiastically all day demolishing fences and assisting in the general clean-up. They did a great job, felt really good about themselves and came home FILTHY.

It was a very memorable day for all concerned as seen in some of the comments from the students:

“It was a good experience.” “It was good to help out people who had lost property due to the fi res.” “It was really rewarding and I had a lot of fun.” “It felt good helping people affected by the fi re.”

Many thanks to the teaching staff who facilitated the day and to the students who participated.

Bill Slatter – Marian College, Ararat

Clowns next to radio

presenters Live 8’s.

Three clowns-Monica Gill,

Laura Camera, Laura Parker.

5

Our Diocesan Community - June 20066 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Silver Jubilee CelebrationThe Linton Sports Stadium was packed on Sunday, May 14 as the community gathered to mark the Silver Jubilee of Fr. John Keane’s Ordination to the Priesthood. Parishioners from the Catholic Parish of Linton, which includes St. Peter’s, Linton, St. John’s, Skipton, St. Mary’s, Smythesdale, St. Brigid’s, Snake Valley and St. Patrick’s, Springdallah, gathered at the Stadium for Mass, followed by light refreshments. Fr. Keane described the parish as “a great inter-mixing community’ and expressed his thanks to all.

[Acknowledgement: Text & photo – The Ballarat Courier]

FR. JACK O’BRIEN R.I.P.

After a long life of service to the people of the Diocese, Fr. Jack O’Brien died in Melbourne at the age of 89 years. Fr. O’Brien was born in Camperdown and was ordained for the Diocese on July 25, 1943. He served as Assistant Priest in the parishes of Ballarat East, Colac, Koroit, Inglewood, Charlton, Terang and Warrnambool and was Parish Priest of Sea Lake from 1960 – 1990. Concelebrated Requiem Mass for the late Father Jack O’Brien was celebrated in Saint Patrick’s Church, Camperdown on Thursday, 27 April at 11.00a.m. and the burial took place at the conclusion of Mass in the Camperdown Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

FR. JACK O’BRIENAfter a long life of service to the people of the Diocese, Fr. Jack O’Brien died in Melbourne at the age of 89 years. Fr. O’Brien was born in Camperdown and was ordained for the Diocese on July 25, 1943. He served as Assistant Priest in the parishes of Ballarat East, Colac, Koroit, Inglewood, Charlton, Terang and Warrnambool and was Parish Priest of Sea Lake from 1960 – 1990. Concelebrated Requiem Mass for the late Father Jack O’Brien was celebrated in Saint Patrick’s Church, Camperdown on Thursday, 27 April at 11.00a.m. and the burial took place at the conclusion of Mass in the Camperdown Cemetery.

Meet Fr. Matthew ThomasOn the Feast of St Patrick, Friday, March 17th, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ballarat was fi lled with clergy, family, parishioners and friends for the Ordination of Matthew Thomas as a priest for the Diocese of Ballarat.

Matthew Thomas is the eldest of four children of Margaret and Kevin Thomas and has two brothers Sean and Ben and a sister Kate. Matthew was born and raised in Geelong, educated in the local Parish Primary School Christ the King in Newcomb at St Joseph’s Christian Brothers College, Newtown. Matthew entered Corpus Christi College Seminary in 1998. During 2001 Matthew was at Sacred Heart Parish, Kew for a pastoral placement. In 2003 he changed dioceses from the Archdiocese of Melbourne to the Diocese of Ballarat and during that year completed his Bachelor of Theology with a Graduate Diploma in Theology the following year. At the end of 2004 Matthew was asked by Bishop Peter Connors to move to St Joseph’s Parish, Warrnambool for further pastoral experience. On Friday the 30th September, 2005, Matthew was ordained as a Deacon at St Joseph’s Warrnambool.

Matthew’s Ordination was attended by clergy, family and friends from all across Victoria and was a wonderful celebration for Matthew and his family, the Parish and the Diocese. Currently he is working in St Patrick’s Cathedral parish. Please pray for Matthew as he starts his life as a priest of the Diocese.

A Meeting with a Difference!Recently the Parish of Ararat had a meeting with a difference! At the request of a parishioner, we had a gathering of any people in the Parish who had become Catholics as adults over the years.

We shared our stories and memories and listened to, and identifi ed with, each person’s experiences. There was a marvellous spirit of companionship and admiration and great hilarity at times, as various episodes were shared. The spirit of welcome, support and opportunity for involvement given by priests and parishioners were affi rmed with gratitude.

One of the points raised at this meeting was that people always have questions but not always a forum to express them. Practical suggestions emerged to cater for this, so we will now strive to continue the momentum and keep sharing and learning together.

Annette Slatter

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 7

Centenary of Church & School, Mildura - March 2006Many local parishioners, visitors from afar, past students of schools in the area converged on Mildura for the long weekend in March to celebrate three signifi cant occasions. It was a hundred years since the parish of Sacred Heart became a parish in its own right instead of being a mission outpost of Charlton, the Sisters of Mercy arrived in the area from Wentworth and Catholic Education commenced in Sunraysia. Several important events were planned to facilitate the celebration of these happenings. Festivities commenced with Registration at St Joseph’s College Stadium on Friday evening 10th March 2006 and it was heart warming to see two ladies who had not met for sixty three years to greet each other. A pleasant evening was spent meeting and greeting friends and acquaintances, and enjoying some nibbles and sampling the Centenary Wines which were bottled by Trentham Estate Winery. The exhibition of artistic works of many past pupils was admired by many.

Saturday morning, 11th March saw many Sisters of Mercy, past students, relatives and friends of the Sisters gather at the Cemetery in Nichols Point for a Remembrance Service for the pioneer Sisters of Mercy who lie buried there. From 1pm on Saturday, 11th March, past students fl ocked to Sacred Heart School and St Joseph’s College for School reunions organised in Decades. Of special interest and attraction were displays of memorabilia of the various decades, the highlight being tours of the former Convent which is now refurbished as the Mercy Centre. During the course of the afternoon a bronze memorial depicting the history of the Sisters in Mildura and the current educational experiences of students at St Joseph’s College, today, was unveiled and blessed by Bishop Christopher Toohey of Wilcannia Forbes as it was from this Diocese that the Sisters came to Mildura. This inspiring piece of sculpture is the work of Sr Gael O’Leary, a talented Sister of Mercy from New Zealand.

An enjoyable time was had by those who attended the Centenary Gala dinner at the Da Vinci Club on Saturday evening. Among the invited guests were Bishop Peter Connors, Bishop of Ballarat, Bishop Christopher Toohey of Wilcannia Forbes, Monsignor Les Tomlinson, (former pupil of St Joseph’s College) and current Vicar general of the Archdiocese of Melbourne as well as Sr Kathleen Tierney, (another former pupil) and now Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Mercy and approximately thirty other Sisters who have at some time worked in the Sunraysia area. Features of the dinner included memories and trivia from the life of the parish, Sacred Heart School, St Joseph’s College and the lives of the Sisters. James Haenen (former pupil) shared many memories of his father John and his relationship with the Sisters as he worked in and cared for the Convent garden for fi fty years. Sr Sylvia Williams, current principal of St Joseph’s College launched a CD and a DVD, compiled by Camilla Elliot, which is a “potted” history of various elements of Sacred Heart Parish, the Sisters of Mercy and the fi ve schools they commenced here in Sunraysia. Father Tom Brophy PP, launched the book “Our Priests” an early parish history compiled by Regina Fitzpatrick. Regina was assisted in this work by Raylee Schultz.

The highlight of the weekend for many was the Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday morning, where in an inclusive liturgy, recognising the gifts and talents of many, and of the different ethnic groups in the Parish, all present gave thanks to God for the blessings of the last one hundred years, and prayed for the grace to remain faithful to the Gospel in the future. New, colourful, stained glass windows depicting life in Sunraysia and the importance of faith in our lives designed and executed by Mr David Davies were also blessed as part of this liturgy. This was followed by a lunch in Sacred Heart Hall where sharing and reminiscing continued unabated. The centenary cake was cut by two very senior parishioners, Mrs Eileen Hillman and Mr Michael Smith (both 92 years of age).

Of special interest to the Fitzpatrick family was the rededication of the original Catholic Church now that it has been placed in the grounds of St Paul’s School and refurbished. Members of the Fitzpatrick family were instrumental in organising the construction of this Church originally built in Pine Avenue in1896. The building has served in many capacities as part of the Convent and boarding school, as a venue for ‘pleasant Sunday afternoons’ for fund raising efforts as well as being used as an Religious Education Centre, for wood work lessons, as a drama centre and as a temporary library. People are delighted that it has been restored to its former use and it will once again serve as a haven for those requiring time and space for prayer and refl ection. Gratitude was also expressed for the foresight of Monsignor Frank McKenzie who more than thirty-four years ago envisaged a church among the trees (Mac’s Patch) he planted and watered most faithfully.

On Monday 13th March, the parishioners gathered again in Sacred Heart Church to ask God blessing on all the priests who have served them over the years. All were inspired by the homily preached by our senior priest in the area Father Frank Monaghan who urged us to remember the past with gratitude, to look forward to the future with confi dence but above all not to neglect the present “now” which is where God works through each of us. This Centenary celebration has been a time of many mixed emotions, inspiration and gratitude for many people and the parishioners are very happy that so many came to share this wonderful weekend with them.

history compiled by Regina Fitzpatrick. Regina was assisted in this work by Raylee Schultz.

very senior parishioners, Mrs Eileen Hillman and Mr Michael Smith (both 92 years of age).

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

To Serve is to LoveStudents at Trinity College Colac have taken their 2006 school theme ‘To Serve is to Love” to heart this year and have already volunteered in many ways as a school community.

Year 10 students have assisted the local ‘Do Care’ group by going once a week to help elderly people with their shopping. A mini-bus picks up the three students rostered on for that week and takes them with the elderly people to the supermarket. Year 10 Coordinator, Mr Jon Hubbard, says “The students assist the elderly by reaching the high shelves, reading price tags and pushing around the sometimes unwieldy trolleys”.

Trinity College’s leading musical group ‘Sophisticated Swing’ were the support act to The Victoria Police Showband at an inaugural Black Tie Gala Evening / Fundraiser which was held in early April with 400 guests being entertained in a marquee on the Colac Cricket Ground. Guests were also served very professionally by the Yr 11 VET Hospitality class. Proceeds from the evening will assist with the purchase of furniture, fi xtures and fi ttings for the new Colac 75 bed Residential Aged Care facility, currently under construction.

The Student Representative Council has also held sausage sizzles, a pancake day and casual day where funds raised are sent off to charities as well as a very successful Coin Line for Caritas Funds during Lent. Many students also volunteer in their own time with sport coaching, umpiring, visiting elderly and similar practical expressions of service. The theme for the year is being lived out in a most positive way.

Mary Day – Trinity College

STREET MINISTRY RETREATSAs two groups of year 11 students from St. Brigid’s College Horsham ventured to Melbourne to participate in a STREET MINISTRY RETREAT there were many questions and feelings present.Feelings of apprehension and anxiety, questions and statements such as ‘will I get stabbed’? ‘what if someone attacks me?’ ‘I don’t want to do this!’ ‘will you come with me Mr. Clonan?’ Amberley Retreat team offer these retreats to senior secondary students to allow them to fi rst hand experience something of the work that volunteers undertake as they contribute to those who experience homelessness and other issues that impact on their lives.

Students who were able to go out to Soup Vans visiting people in rooming houses and in parks were met with great welcome on the Wednesday night. We soon forgot our fears mingling with the homeless and lonely people of the streets. The soup vans offer more than food and nourishment - “it opened up my eyes a lot”. Rosie’s tea and coffee van provided a sense of community for people in the city - “it was interesting to hear the homeless people’s stories and about their life and why they were there”. The number of young volunteers present was inspiring to see. These volunteers have committed themselves weekly for many months and even years.

Students ventured out to their placements on Thursday morning including Sacred Heart Mission, St. Kilda - “loved it had, a great fun time, enjoyed helping and talking to other people”; St. Paul’s Special School - “challenging”; Belmore Special School - “confronting but not a lot you could actually do”, ; Coolibah Drop in Centre - “as good as it gets”; Corpus Christ Community Home for Alcoholic Men - “it was fun and it was awesome chatting to the men there, it was a friendly atmosphere” and Nazareth House Aged Care facility - “good fun, enjoyed it”. An hour or two of ‘Retail Therapy’ late

Thursday afternoon helped students to wind down from their new and unique experiences. Following another new experience of eating a Turkish meal, our trip over to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre was a welcome relief. Back to South Yarra for a movie and a well earned sleep. Friday involved some refl ection and

activities together with guest speakers who shared their experience of volunteer work around Melbourne.

The STREET MINISTRY RETREAT was thoroughly enjoyed by all and many students expressed an appreciation of ‘just how lucky some of us are’. We can all make a difference to our world by being simply human and making a response to others basic needs. Well done to our students who made the effort to make that difference.

John Clonan

Thursday afternoon Thursday afternoon helped students helped students to wind down from to wind down from their new and unique their new and unique experiences. experiences. Following another Following another new experience of new experience of eating a Turkish eating a Turkish meal, our trip over to meal, our trip over to the Melbourne Sports the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and Aquatic Centre was a welcome relief. was a welcome relief. Back to South Yarra Back to South Yarra for a movie and a for a movie and a well earned sleep. well earned sleep.

Tehan White outside the St. Vinnies Soup Van near Flinders Street Station

Kate Martin, Julie Ross & Raquel Spicer at the Community in Greenvale

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Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

MERBEIN CHURCH CELEBRATES

On Palm Sunday, April 9th, 2006, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, Merbein celebrated the 50th anniversary of the opening and blessing of their church on April 8th, 1956. Prior to this, Mass had been said in the church-school which opened in 1927. Present and past parishioners, along with many visitors, gathered at the school for the blessing of the palms before processing over to the church for a Celebration Mass said by Bishop Peter Connors and co-celebrated by Frs. Frank and John Monaghan. Fr Frank Monaghan was Parish Priest at Merbein from 1974 to 1980, and as Assistant Priest at Mildura, was present at the original blessing and opening of the church on April 8th, 1956, by Bishop J. P. O’Collins of Ballarat.

The attending crowd of 400 overfl owed to the lawns outside where chairs and speakers had been set up in sunshine and shade so everyone could be involved in the celebration of the Mass. Both the Merbein Anglican and Uniting Churches cancelled their Sunday services to enable their parishioners to attend the Celebration Mass. Sr. Marion McDonald, Parish Leader, ensured that all parish groups were involved in the liturgy, along with many family members who were descendants of the early parishioners who were deeply involved with the building and fi nancing of the church.

Children from the Parish School performed a reverential, liturgical dance and an historical outline of the Church’s history from 1927 to present times was delivered by parishioner, Bernadette Wells. At the end of Mass, two 50th anniversary commemoration plaques were blessed by Bishop Connors, having been unveiled by Peg and Nancy McCarthy and Joan Edwards and Raylee Schultz. Therese Power unveiled a picture of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and Michael Murphy and George Gerstenmayer unveiled a Credence Table, also blessed by Bishop Peter. These items were crafted by George and Stephen Gerstenmayer and incorporated some wood from the original E. J. Kenny Memorial Altar. In 1927, early parishioners had dedicated this altar in memory of Kenny who worked hard to secure suitable land for the church before dying, suddenly, in 1925.

A book, compiled by Bernadette Wells and titled, ‘The 50th Anniversary of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Merbein 1956-2006 Historical Snippets, Images and Recollections’ was launched by Barry Bishop, MLC, at the school after the Mass. The anniversary cake was cut by past parishioners, Patricia Adams and Carmel Chapman. An historical display caused a lot of interest and Councillor Vernon Knight, a parishioner, delivered a vote of thanks before a barbecue family lunch was enjoyed by all. The celebration has sparked a renewal of faith and pride in the Parish.

Ballarat North & VolunteersWednesday is a day of volunteering at St Columba’s School, Ballarat North. When we added up the parents and grandparents who helped us last Wednesday, we totalled nineteen marvellous grownups. There were six parents working in the Literacy classrooms, nine parents helping small groups in the Perceptual skills program and four amazing grandparents teaching the grade 2 and 3 children to knit. What a wonderfully busy day each week this term.

Then, in St. Columba’s Parish, volunteers are found in many places. I was looking at the Church ministries roster in last week’s Parish newsletter. Between the two Masses celebrated at our Church I counted between 24 and 30 separate individuals participating in active ministry in the Mass. The next week only the choir was repeated as a ministry. This roster did not refl ect the people who are on the leadership team, the people behind the scenes ensuring that the fl owers are on the altar, the brass is shiny, the altar linen is laundered, the church is clean, the heaters turned off, and the money counted. With the roster for Reading the Word, there is a ten week repeat cycle.If I added up all the volunteers involved in active ministry in the Parish in a month it would be well in excess of a hundred people - young, middle aged, senior, male and female. I wonder how well we celebrate that level of involvement.

Fiona Tonkin

Sr. Marion McDonald (Parish Leader) and Bishop Peter Connors moving to the back of the church for the blessing of the 50th anniversary

commemoration plaques.

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Our Diocesan Community - June 200610 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Exodus Community - Two yearsThe Wendouree West Exodus Community is celebrating its second birthday. The Community began its live – in phase on March 3 2004. In that time, the Exodus Community:

• has established contact with 110 households and visits the sick, elderly and disadvantaged;• conducts drop-ins each Saturday at 8 Primrose St with soup, food and cuppas;• has an Open House where there is a constant fl ow of people;• ministers to the local youth;• participates in the R.C.I.A.;• celebrates the Sacraments, funerals, and memorial services;• ministers to people with disabilities;• accompanies people to court, medical appointments and agencies;• has conducted a three day camp for 43 people;• deals with crisis situations;• has three teams of people who share in its ministry - the House Team, the Visitation team and the Support Team

(which keeps Exodus afl oat in a material sense);• takes up justice issues, especially those relating to poverty;• facilitates grass roots community and leadership.

The Exodus Community functions within Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Wendouree. The Parish provides very signifi cant material and spiritual support. Exodus has received considerable support also from O.L.H.C Parish Primary School, Damascus College, St. Pat’s College and Loreto College. Exodus has also had signifi cant contact with the parishes of Ballarat North, Sebastopol, Redan and Beaufort. The Wendouree Conference of St. Vincent de Paul has been most supportive as have been the Pathology and Radiology Departments of St. John of God Hospital. In fact Exodus feels very much part of the Ballarat Diocese.

Exodus also has an ecumenical dimension. One of its founding members (Susan Nelson) was a Quaker. We have met with the Ballarat Heads of Churches, the Victoria Rural Council of Churches and the Ballarat Council of Churches. The Ballarat Church of God regularly donates food and Kevin does youth work with the Wendouree Baptist Church. Exodus networks regularly with the Wendouree West Community House, Wendouree West Community Renewal, Ballarat City Council and Mayor David Vendy, Government and Non-Government agencies (eg Centacare)

Exodus’ current live-in members are: Kevin Waugh (Co-ordinator), Robyn Waugh and Frank Smith C.S.S.R. Helen Feely also spent over a year with Exodus as a non live-in member.

The live-in component of the Exodus Community:• meets one morning per week for Eucharist, formation, business and pastoral refl ection and lunch;• meets for two days three times yearly for refl ection and prayer;• celebrates Eucharist on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 8.30 am. - this Eucharist is open to all and is followed

by a shared breakfast;• join the Heidelberg West Exodus Community for an annual retreat;• encourages members to take a day off per week and each member has three weeks of annual holiday;• shares most of its main meals.

Exodus rejoices at its second birthday and thanks all who have made Exodus a reality, especially the Redemptorist Congregation and the Redemptorist Lay Community. The Redemptorists make very signifi cant fi nancial contributions and last November Provincial Michael Gilbert donated a Nissan Pulsar to Exodus. Exodus in many ways has a Redemptorist fl avour: “He sent me to preach the Good News to the poor”.

Fr. Frank Smith

A request . . .St. Patrick’s Church, Amphitheatre, where they have Mass approximately once a month on a Friday evening will be celebrating it’s Centenary on Sunday, 17th September, 2006 with Mass at 12 noon celebrated by Bishop Peter Connors. Mary Dridan (03) 5466 2252 would like to hear from any past parishioners or others who may be able to supply information or loan memorabilia, photographs, etc., to assist with the preparation of a brief history of the church in preparation for the big occasion. Information call also be sent by email to tonyoshea@iinet.net.au

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 11

From LoretoBeing in Year 12, students have the opportunity to choose the type of Religious Education Program that they would like to participate in. Rebecca Lowry and Amelia Tobias have chosen to be part of the ‘Religion in Action’ program and have become involved with The Exodus House Community in Wendouree West. This is a part of greater Ballarat that is known for its low cost government housing and its low socio-economic status. The Exodus House Community has been set up by Father Frank, Kevin and Robyn as a welcoming place where you will always fi nd a friendly face.

Amelia, Olga, Robyn, Clarrie & Rebecca (in front)

Rebecca and Amelia had as their original charter to do some cooking and this was later extended to home visitation. This has now become the important part. They regularly visit an older couple, who haven’t any signifi cant contact with their family. They have only recently moved into the area so have as yet not been able to build meaningful relationships. For them, it means that someone actually cares because someone in the community actually wants to listen to them. Continuing with their ministry, they visit Exodus House on Saturdays and are part of a worthwhile activity. Young and old pack into a small room to have lunch together, laughing, sharing stories and most importantly, not judging each other by their appearances or how much money they have.

Thanks to Father Frank, Kevin and Robyn, the Exodus House has made such a difference in the community over the last two years. It has provided a place for locals to build friendships and to feel appreciated and supported. And for Amelia and Rebecca, it has been something special. It has given them the opportunity make a difference.

Peter Rix – Loreto College, Ballarat

Remembering the Pioneers

Sunday 26th March 2006 was St. John’s Day in the Parish of Sacred Heart Casterton. On that day the parish celebrated the Pioneer Parishioners and Priests who started the parish at St. John’s Sandford. Built about 1866, it was the founding church of present day Sacred Heart Parish and remained so until the present church of Sacred Heart was built in Casterton in 1886.

When the Parish was canonically erected in 1875, the parish priest lived in Casterton as did other Catholics who would either ride a horse or go by buggy and trap, or as lots less fortunate did, walked the 5kms there and back. Sandford, at the time of 1866 was the hub of the area, even the local Glenelg Shire Council started there and later transferred to Casterton. The reason why the priest lived in Casterton, the presbytery wasn’t built till around 1880, is not known. Maybe given foresight of the area of Casterton with the commerce and business activity happening there, it could have been a shrewd decision.

However to the present. 26th March 2006 was set aside as St. John’s Day. The church had been sold some 18 months previously so having a Mass there was not possible. Our present parish priest Fr. Andrew Hayes, only 10 weeks into his Pastorate in the area, declared that he was going to honour the Pioneer Priest and Parishioners of St. John’s who walked to Mass there and challenged his parishioners “to come walk with me”, only that 5kms journey was in reverse. Some 30 people, young and old and even toddlers in pushers, took up

the challenge and all set forth in joy and happiness, a wonderful journey affi rming their Faith. The group made its way along the highway, causing curiosity in other road travellers as they came up along the highway to Shiels Terrace and into Robertson St. As the group entered the church grounds the church bell of Sacred Heart Casterton peeled out a warm welcome to the pilgrim group as they came to rest in the church. During Mass, a photo of St. John’s Church Sandford bearing the inscription St. John’s Catholic Church, Sandford - Founding Church of the present day Sacred Heart Parish was blessed and placed at the foot of the altar for the rest of Mass. During the sermon Father Andrew paid tribute to the pioneer priests and parishioners who paved the way for today’s parish. The photo of St. John’s depicting fi ve different aspects of this humble church now hangs in Sacred Heart Church as a reminder to all who come in years ahead of the Pioneer Parishioners and Priests who paved the way.

Annual Life WalkCharles H. Bignold, a Redan parishioner, wishes to thank all those who contributed to his participation in the Annual Life Walk from Maffra to Melbourne on 2nd April to 9th April. The Walk is to raise awareness of the abortion issue and raise money for the Pregnancy Support Centres and Charles would like to acknowledge the number of young people who supported the walk.

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Teddy Bears PicnicThe GodStart Program encourages Parishes to provide opportunities for parents and children to come together and meet up when their children reach the ages of three and four years old. The aim of these gatherings is to strengthen the Parish community in a relaxed and friendly environment. One such gathering has taken place in St. Aloysius’ Parish, Redan. Approximately thirty children aged three and four attended this wonderful fun day held in the Activity Room of Lumen Christi Primary School. When the Prep class heard of the planned event, they offered to help. They busily set to work and not only coloured the invitations, but also baked lots of honey joys for the party. Beautiful party hats were created by the Preps from St Aloysius’ Primary School and the Grade 6 class at Lumen Christi blew up loads of balloons. The weather was perfect and when the children and their parents arrived, they were greeted by lots of teddies peeping

through the fence. It was great to have members of the Parish Youth Group helping out with games and waiting on the children. The food depicting teddies in various ways was prepared and served by some generous ladies from the Parish: Sandra, Clare, Maureen, Anne and Phyllis. The children were treated to a lovely story read by Lumen Christi’s librarian, Maria Grace. Father Gerry had a great time with his teddy securely placed in his shirt pocket. The Preps were delighted to polish off the left over food! There will be many happy memories for lots of people.

Carmel Densley – Diocesan GodStart Coordinator

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Renovating at St. AlipiusThe people of St Alipius’ Church, Ballarat East are now in the midst of the long awaited restoration and refurbishment of their parish church. Parish secretary Jim Moran said he had seen an “enormous change” since work to the exterior of the building began about 12 months ago. “Literally, the walls were just falling apart,” Mr. Moran said. The foundation stone of the church was laid in March 1873 by the bishop of Melbourne Bishop James Alipius Goold and the church was offi cially opened in

December 1874.

Phase one of the renovations has seen the near completion of works done to the exterior of the church. Phase two will see renovations to the interior of the church. All work is being carried out under the supervision of Richard Falkinger of Falkinger Andronas Architects and Heritage Consultants. Mr. Falkinger, who has overseen the restoration of about 50 churches, said he felt a strong affi nity with the buildings. “History is something that you live,” Mr. Falkinger said. “A church is a living monument and the history it produces is that of its people.” Exterior work on the church included repairs to the roof, the masonry and to the windows. The interior renovation will see restoration of fabrics and the

decayed plaster, and new carpets. Most importantly, said Mr. Falkinger, a new sanctuary will be constructed. The new sanctuary area will provide more room for celebrations of weddings, baptisms and funerals. A new marble altar will also be constructed. The works should be fi nished by the end of July.

St. Alipius parish priest Father Adrian McInerney said there would defi nitely be some celebrating when the restorations were fi nished. Fr. McInerney said that with the Feat of St. Alipius on Thursday, August 18, it would be an ideal time to celebrate. “It would be lovely to have a big feast on the Friday night,” Fr. McInerney said. “We’ll get Bishop Peter Connors to consecrate the new altar and we’ll have a big celebration in the hall afterwards.”

Prudent savings over the years for this project has meant that the almost half of the total cost ($625,252.00) has been met from parish funds. A public appeal was launched on May 2nd to assist in meeting the remaining cost. The Appeal target is $343,252.00. Further inquiries to St. Alipius’ Presbytery ph: 5332 6611 email: stalipius@ncable.net.au

[Acknowledgement: Text & photo – The Ballarat Courier]

Heritage Consultants. Mr. Falkinger, who has overseen the restoration Heritage Consultants. Mr. Falkinger, who has overseen the restoration

Architect Richard Falkinger

Building Committee - Leo Hayes, Fr. McInerney, Richard Falkinger, Jack Donne, Neil Andrews, Jean Lewis, Jim Moran.

12

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

13

Introducing Sister Veronica QuinnSister Veronica Quinn is a Good Samaritan sister who has been appointed this year to work in the Diocesan Religious Education Centre.

I’ve been working now in the Ballarat Diocese as a resource person for Catechists and Sacramental Teams for about four months and this is probably an opportune time to introduce myself.My background has been mainly in catholic education in a number of different dioceses and states. This has included some time working with the schools in the northern area of the Ballarat Diocese as a curriculum advisor. During this time I certainly developed an awareness of the size and distance involved in working in our diocese. This awareness was further broadened years later when I became a principal in the Southern zone of the Diocese at the parish school of Coragulac/Pirron Yallock. I also loved my experience of outback life living at Mt Magnet in the Geraldton Diocese of West Australia and then enjoyed a number of years working in schools in Far North Queensland as a school principal in the Townsville Diocese. I seem destined to work in extraordinarily large rural dioceses so it’s just as well I love driving and exploring new areas! During these fi rst few months in Ballarat I have taken a number of opportunities to visit catechists and sacramental teams as they meet to prepare for the work of the year or as they have actually worked with children. I have been constantly astounded at the dedication, the commitment and the fi delity with which our catechists and our sacramental teams approach their ministry of passing on their faith to so many children throughout our Diocese. A hidden treasure!My priority this year is to visit as many of the catechetical and sacramental teams as possible and to listen to their experiences and to try and identify how I can help. In my short time in the Diocese I have already become very aware of how many of our groups are working in very challenging circumstances, particularly in those areas where there are no catholic schools or no resident priests, and of how they need the support of all of us. I’m looking forward to meeting many of you over the next few months.

A SPECIAL GATHERINGOn Monday, April 24, the Diocesan Pastoral Associates group met at Bishop Connors’ house for a most enjoyable gathering. Bishop Peter’s hospitality and culinary skills are much appreciated by each of us and all agreed that the meal was delicious and nutritious and the company entertaining and enlivening. This is an annual event we value for many reasons particularly as it gives an opportunity to share and be supported in our experiences of ministry around the Diocese.

Sr. Barbara May - Maryborough

Br. Dermot (Warrnambool), Sr. Veronica, (Horsham), Sr. Noreen (Sebastopol) & Sr. Margaret Mary (Ballarat North)

Debutante BallOn April 29, 2006, the Highland Society in Maryborough was the venue for a most successful and enjoyable St. Augustine’s Parish Debutante Ball with the theme “Secret Garden”.

Fourteen debs and their partners were presented to Father Gerry Prunty and the offi cial party as the highlight of this event. Following the presentation of the Debs and their partners, 308 people danced the night away to music provided by the Impalas. It was a fantastic celebration and all agreed that the debs danced to perfection and made this a memorable occasion for many in the parish and beyond.

Our Diocesan Community - June 200614 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006

Christian Personal Development

The focus of this issue of Our Diocesan Community on Volunteering fi nds an echo in the Christian Personal Development Award (CPDA) of Damascus College, Ballarat.

The CPDA is an initiative of Damascus College to address a perceived need in the lives of young people in the fi nal years of their secondary education. The various academic and vocational orientated programs offered by the College provide a signifi cant component of the experience of school life for students.

As well as these regular, timetabled programs however, there is a wider aspect to college and community life that is often named co-curricular or extra-curricular but is in fact a serious part of the core business of the College. This includes community service, action for social justice, sporting commitments, performing arts connections, oratory competitions, Christian youth ministry associations and all other manner of cultural pursuits. It was felt that students needed to be recognised for their efforts in these areas. It was also recognised that there would need to be a comprehensive recording system to maintain the data associated with student activities and hours of participation. Further it was realised that a process of induction into the program was needed. And so the Christian Personal Development Award was born.

The CPDA helps students to see the need to be proactive about personal development. Through a Certifi cate presented to the student at the end of Year 12, students are able to have a record of their participation in the many personal development opportunities open to them through the CPDA.

The students are introduced to the Award at Year 10 level with through an Introductory Program which encompasses:

The Retreat: At the heart of the retreat is the scriptural text concerning mercy found in Matthew’ Gospel (25:32 ff.);Melbourne Day: Students learn the reality of city life as seen through the eyes of students in Secondary Colleges in Melbourne.

Recreational Activities: Volunteers from the many clubs in Ballarat and District come into the College to share their passion with the students;Physical Awareness: Students perform physical talent identifi cation assessments under the watchful eye of the students from Ballarat University School of Human Movement;Volunteering: Students gain an insight into the world of volunteering by participating in a day of community service and land care.

Following the Introductory Program in Year 10 students are encouraged to complete personal development activities toward achieving the Award. To achieve the Award, students must complete a minimum of 30 hours in each of the four categories within the Award: • Action for Mercy and Justice / Community Service• Physical Recreation Pursuits • Spiritual Development• Other Personal Development Activities

The CPDA has proved an important initiative in the life of Damascus College and for the students as they approach a new stage in their life journey.

Tony Haintz – Damascus College

INVEST IN THE FUTUREFor more information please contact:

Catholic Development Fund‘Free Post’ PO Box 576, Ballarat 3353

Phone: 1800 134 100Email: cdf@ballarat.catholic.org.au

Our Diocesan Community - June 2006Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 Our Diocesan Community - June 2006 15

LATEST BOOKS AND VIDEOS FOR LOAN FROM THE DIOCESAN RESOURCE CENTRE……………

Abbott, Margie. (2001). Sparks of the cosmos : rituals for seasonal use. (Unley, SA: MediaCom.)

A book of 80 rituals, divided into four parts (earth, air, water, fire) representing the four pathways of Creation Centred Spirituality. Each part has its own introduction, a theological reflection and 20 rituals. Original poetry is placed at the beginning of each section. School staffs, leadership teams, religious congregations, prayer groups, those preparing for conferences and many others will find this resource valuable.

Heffernan, John. (2003). Two summers. (Lindfield, SA: Scholastic)

Rick comes to stay on the farm again, but this summer it is in drought so things are different. Shortlisted for CBCA Awards 2004

Walker, Vicki. (2004). Knowing home : a reflection of personal spirituality by a woman from the river country. (East Melbourne: Albert Street Productions.) VIDEO

Indigenous leader, Vicki Walker shares her life journey and spirituality. In the film, Vicki, the Coordinator of Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) speaks of the importance of her family connection and relationship to country that is central to her spirituality.

Hamma, Robert M. (1999). Landscapes of the soul : a spirituality of place. (Notre Dame, IN: Ave Maria Press.)

The author Invites readers to see ordinary places anew--to appreciate fully the way in which place nurtures their spiritual lives. Draws upon scripture, psychology, and theology to lay out the framework for a comprehensive spirituality of place. From the vast expanses of the cosmos to their own backyards, Hamma reminds readers that God is a God who cares about and becomes present in the places that they inhabit.

For Loans please contact Jenny at:5 Lyons Street South, (P.O. Box 576), Ballarat 3353Ph: 5337 7149 Fax: 5333 5048Email: jkingston@ceo.balrt.catholic.edu.au Web Site: http://www.ceo.balrt.catholic.edu.au/library

SOMETHING TO PONDER?In the days when the National Catholic Rural Movement was at its peak, the late Monsignor McMahon, ex naval chaplain, was stationed at St. Joseph’s in Warrnambool and responsible for Sunday Mass at St. Columba’s Church, Winslow. He saw the workers bus making a return trip daily, Woolsthorpe– Warrnambool and picking up people along the way. The bus was idle on Sunday, so arrangements came to fruition and the Catholics in the Woolsthorpe area came to Mass in Winslow each Sunday by bus. The scheme was a great success and continued until affluence allowed the purchase of cars and the bus became no longer viable. Could it be possible that in this day and age, when school buses are everywhere that some outlying communities could be glad of a bus to take Catholics to a Mass centre?Something else to think about – would it be possible to implement an annual Rural Sunday in the Ballarat Diocese? This diocese is very largely dependent on rural enterprises and the above suggestion could be a way of identifying our faith with our way of life in a focused way. It is interesting that in this area we have had a Rural Mass celebrated each year and it is safe to say since its inception over twenty years ago that we have not had a bad season. Some have been uncertain but have finished out well over the twelve months. Perhaps even a National Rural Sunday?

Tom Tobin - Winslow

OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY

A joint publication of the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat and the Catholic Education Office of Ballarat.

The Editorial Committee of OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY wishes to thank the many people who have contributed to this issue. We also acknowledge the support through sponsorship of the Catholic Superannuation Fund, Catholic Church Insurances and the Ballarat Diocesan Provident Fund.

EDITORIAL BOARDFr. Gerry Baldock, Sr Anne McMillan, Mr Allen

Moloney, Sr Geraldine Mugavin, Mr Peter Schreenan, Mrs Carla Woodruff.

During 2006, ODC will be published quarterly, March, June, September and December. All contributions to ODC may be forwarded to:OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY, PO Box 576,

Ballarat 3353Phone: (03) 5337 7159 Fax: (03) 5333 5148

Email: odc@ballarat.catholic.org.au

Our Diocesan Community - June 200616

Congratulations Shayne Reese!

Damascus College, Ballarat recently welcomed back Shayne Reese, a past student of the college, to congratulate her on her Gold medal win in the Commonwealth Games swimming team in Melbourne. Shayne spoke to the students at an assembly at the Victoria Street campus. She was interviewed by two of the students and gave an inspiring outline of the path she has followed and the commitment that she has made to bring her to world standard success in her swimming. The College is very proud of Shayne and wish her every success as she continues in her chosen fi eld.

Marie Davey – Damascus College

The Message Stick RelayWhen Pope John Paul was in Australia twenty years ago, he met with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Alice Springs. He said to them, “the Church herself in Australia will not be fully the Church that Jesus wants her to be until you have made your contribution to her life and until that contribution has been joyfully received by others”. To keep this dream alive, the Catholic Indigenous People have begun around Australia a relay with a Message Stick. At the end of the Relay around Australia, the Message Stick will arrive in Alice Springs in October, 2006, where the Relay will culminate in a celebration of the Twentieth Anniversary of the Pope’s speech.

The Message Stick was received by St Joseph’s Parish in Warrnambool on Saturday 29th April during the Vigil Mass. The Message Stick is a call from the Church to come together united in friendship, fellowship, spirituality and respect. AS the Message Stick was presented to Fr John Fitzgerald the Gunditjmara Karween (Dance Group) performed a traditional dance and smoking ceremony. Nick Haynes, the leader of the group, addressed the congregation and explained his role at the Gunditjmara Co-op. He acknowledged the problems his people face and he asked our community for help in guiding young indigenous people into ways which will ensure their future will be one of hope and not despair.

Mary Lancaster - Warrnambool

REMEMBERING SCHOOL DAYSThere was a great spirit in the air when over 300 people gathered to celebrate the 75 Year reunion of St. Joseph’s School, Noorat. Many travelled from as far as Paris, Queensland, Perth and New South Wales. The guest speakers for the occasion were all past pupils - Pat Sargeant, John Vogels, Leo O’Keeffe, Ted O’Sullivan, Brendan Carlin, Coleman Moloney and Paul Stanhope with Fr Coley McKenzie and Fr Gleeson travelling to celebrate the Mass with Fr Barry Ryan. The scene was set with ‘Sisters’ Bernadette Moloney and Rene Kenna arriving in an old FJ Holden, much to the enjoyment of the crowd. Annette Clifford completed the scene dressed up in the old school uniform. A great day was had by all.

John Vogles MLC and the ‘Sisters’.