catholic observer magazine

Volume 47, No 1April 2012 $2.00

Lord of lifeYou defeated deathTo demonstrate a love that isBeyond our understanding;That reaches out even to me.

Saving Grace to all who hear…Christ the Lord is risen to-day

Alleluia!

Easter 2012

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - APRIL EDITION - PAGE 2

Bishop’s Message

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Years 7 to 12MacKillop College Gormans Hill Road

PO Box 691 Bathurst NSW 2795P: (02) 6338 2200 E: [email protected]: www.mackillopcollege.com.au

‘Be A Light To The World’

When I was in Vietnam last Janu-ary, I had the privilege of presid-ing at the funeral Mass for a man

named Peter who had died at the age of 101. He was the last surviving brother of my old friend, the late Bishop Hap. His family and parish community gathered in great numbers to farewell him. He had lived through times of war, reli-gious persecution and the scattering of his people. After the clergy and religious had been sent away, imprisoned and killed, after the seminaries had been closed, his parish went for decades without a resi-dent priest.During that time, Peter, a farmer, had been the village catechist. He had

opened the church every day, gather-ing the people for prayer and teaching the children. Sometimes, a priest might be able to come and bring the hungry flock the nourishment of Word and Sacrament. In between those visits, Peter and his fel-low catechists kept that little community of the Church together, and the flame of faith alive. They persevered day by day in what they believed God was calling them to do, on that day. They had no idea how things would develop, no certainty of success-ful outcomes in this life. But they had Christ risen and amongst them. In that presence, they walked on in hope of the ultimate victory of God over evil and death.

This is always the way, whatever the circumstances, for God’s faithful peo-ple. And we cel-ebrate Easter, not as spectators at a marvelous event, but filled with life released, as people for whom the new creation has already be-gun.In the words of Gerard Manley Hopkins, Let him easter in us, be a dayspring to the dimness of us…

+ Michael McKennaBishop of Bathurst

Easter 2012

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Reynold Glenn Jaboneta was ordained to the Diaconate on Friday 16th March 2012 in the

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John, Bathurst by Bishop Michael McKenna.41 year old Reynold came to Bathurst from the Philippines last year at the invitation of Bishop McKenna. He has been studying and working in parishes, gaining important pastoral experience since then. He was admitted as a Candidate for Ordination by the Bishop on 14th June 2011.The diaconate is an ancient order of the Church, re-instituted as a permanent office by Pope Paul VI following Vatican II. Every priest is ordained a deacon as a necessary step towards ordination to the priesthood (transitional deacons). It is a consecration by the laying on of hands that comes to us from the apostles. Like baptism and confirmation, it cannot be repeated, because it is for life.The role of the deacon is to be a helper of the bishop and priests and to proclaim, by his life, the Church’s call to serve the needs of others. Ordination confers on men important functions in the ministry of the Word, divine worship, pastoral responsibility and the service of charity. Family and friends travelled from near and far joining the Diocesan family to support Reynold as he received this Sacrament of Holy Orders. Please keep Reynold in your prayers as he now continues his journey towards his Ordination to the Priesthood on 4th September this year.

You shall go to all to whom I send you...

Holy Orders for Reynold


Four young men in the Diocese have begun studies for the Priesthood.

After spending time discerning their future with Bishop McKenna and Priests of the Diocese, Karl Sinclair, Andrew Van, Anthony Diep and Paul Dong commenced their seminary studies at the Good Shepherd Seminary at Homebush in February.

The men have become well known throughout the Diocese, with Andrew, Anthony and Paul spending time in various parishes since arriving in Bathurst last year and Karl having been a valued member of the Resident Boarding House Staff at St. Stanislaus’ College, Bathurst.

When a man enters the seminary, he submits himself to seven years formation, including four key areas – human, spiritual, pastoral and academic formation.

The first year of the seminary formation is a spiritual year. This is a unique time for the seminarian to be with Christ in preparation for the journey ahead. He receives input from the seminary staff on the Creed, Sacraments, Moral Life and Prayer. He is encouraged to read and meditate on Christ present in these four aspects of the Catholic faith and life.

The spiritual year begins with a three-day retreat. First years then do an eight-day retreat in the middle of the year. The year finishes with a 30 day silent retreat, according to the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius. At the end of the year, staff and seminarian evaluate the progress that has been made.

During their studies, the men will be supported by our Diocesan Vocations team headed by Father Pat O’Regan (Episcopal Vicar for Clergy), assisted by Father Greg Bellamy. Vocations information is available from our Vocations website at www.bathurstvocations.org.au.

On their journey, these men join our other Seminarian, Reynold Glenn Jaboneta, who has just been ordained a Deacon. Reynold spent time in the Lithgow Parish last year and is currently engaged in pastoral work in Dubbo.

The road ahead for these men will include constant challenges. Please do what you can to help them, by keeping them in your daily prayer.

New seminarians for Diocese

New Seminarians Diep, Dong, Van and Karl with newly ordained Deacon Reynold Jaboneta and Bishop McKenna

Dates to RememberHoly Places Collection Good Friday 6th April

Good Shepherd Sunday 29th April

World Communications Day 13th May

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 20th – 27th May

Launch of the Year of Grace 27th May

World Day of Prayer for Vocations 29th May

Pentecost ~ Pentecost

27th May 2012 to 19th May 2013

Contemplation • Communion • Mission

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It is no secret that the Anglican and Catholic Dioceses of Bathurst have, for many years, enjoyed a warm and

co-operative relationship. Since his Installation as eighth Bishop of Bathurst, Bishop Michael McKenna has worked in a spirit of friendship with Anglican Bishop Richard Hurford (due to retire this year) to foster the relationship nurtured by his predecessor, the late Bishop Patrick Dougherty. Just over a year ago, a working group was established with the aim of focusing the restoration and growth of relationships between the two communions in a more formal way, by the signing of a Covenant.That group, commissioned by both bishops, consists of Canon Frank Hetherington of Holy Trinity Church Orange, Dean Anne Wentzel of All Saints Cathedral Bathurst, Father Tim Cahill, Parish Priest of Blayney and Jenny Bremner, a parishioner from Wellington.During the establishment of the working group, Bishop McKenna, while acknowledging the differences and

challenges, said “……it is always better to light a candle than curse the darkness; and the human bonds between us and, more, the communion that we already share in Christ, must urge us towards the unity for which he prayed”.The Covenant will encompass a commitment to an annual ecumenical service, a biennial joint clergy day, local services to enliven common witness to our Baptism in Jesus Christ, exploration of possibilities for sharing of church plant,

co-operation in preparation for Christian marriage and Christian education of the young, as well as an openness to fellowship with other ecclesial communities.The Covenant will be signed during a joint Clergy Day on 24th May. The liturgy will be in three stages: beginning in the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John; then, a pilgrim walk to All Saints Cathedral; and finally, the signing of the Covenant in All Saints.

Covenant to be signedJenny Bremner and Reverends Cahill, Hetherington and Wentzel

CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUMMER EDITION - PAGE CATHOLIC OBSERVER - APRIL EDITION - PAGE 6

Celebrate Christmas

Children from Yr 1 and Yr 2 at Perthville Public School dressed up in Nativity costumes and sang

“Tell me the Story about Christmas” at their Christmas Assembly which was held on Tuesday December 13th last year. The children were trained by their Scripture teacher, Miss Beverley Bryce. Each class performed a Christmas item for the Assembly and Rev Michael Pailthorpe, the Anglican Youth Minister for Bathurst, was the guest speaker on the day.

S.R.E. at Burraga

Every second Friday, Lee Meyers travels 140kms to teach Scripture to the nine children at Burraga

Public School. She is always made to feel welcome by the Principal Mr Paul Carpenter and was warmly welcomed by the previous Principal Mrs Fiona Proctor.

Lee said that the children from Burraga School are full of love. “They make my day”, said Lee.

Lee feels that this is where God wants her to be every second Friday and that if she wasn’t there, these children might never know how much God loves them and that they are special in His eyes.

SRE Classes around the Diocese

o In 2012 we will need SRE Scripture Teachers & Assistants. More men who have flexible working hours would be especially welcome!

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On Wednesday November 30th last year the Bathurst S.R.E. teachers gathered for a Christmas luncheon. The get together was held at the Cathedral Parish Centre and

the day was organised by Mr Steve Howes, one of our Bathurst S.RE. Co-ordinators.

Steve Blackwell from the Baptist Christian Life Centre and a member of the Bathurst Ministers’ Association addressed the group of 15-20 people. He acknowledged the work of the S.R.E. teachers and spoke of the importance of S.R.E. in our State Schools.

Helen Ryan, the Director of C.C.D., Country Representative on the ICCOREIS Committee and the Chairperson for the Western Inter-Church Committee for Special Religious Education, spoke about the Media Release on “Strengthening Special Religious Education”, dated 11th November 2011, by David Bold.

Helen stated the following from the Media Release:

NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli has announced plans to strengthen the teaching of Special Religious Education in NSW Government schools.

“At the recent Director-General Consultative Committee on Special Religious Education, the Inter-Church Commission on Religious Education in Schools NSW, or ICCOREIS, made a strong case for Special Religious Education.

The Committee resolved that the guidelines and policy for delivering Special Religious Education need to be strengthened.

This will include a minimum time of 30 minutes of meaningful teaching time per week in primary schools, and a minimum of one period of meaningful teaching time per week in secondary schools for Special Religious Education.

As school days have become busier, the provision of a “maximum” period of time has led to other activities encroaching on the delivery of Special Religious Education”.

Mr Piccoli also said he has committed to providing an annual Celebration of Special Religious Education to recognise the efforts of Special Religious Education teachers who have provided long years of service.

The day concluded after lunch and a brief discussion about our Training Morning for 2012 on February 1st. Many thanks to Steve for organising a great day.

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Disclosure: The Catholic Development Fund Diocese of Bathurst (CDF) is not subject to the provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. Deposits with CDF are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a company established by the Austra-lian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. We welcome your investment with the CDF rather than with a profit oriented commercial organisation as a conscious commitment by you to support the Charitable, Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church. CDF, nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Bathurst are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority; contributions to CDF do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; CDF is designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of CDF.

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Bishop McKenna last year appointed Sister Maureen Sanderson as the new Director of Caritas Australia

for the Diocese of Bathurst and she has been busy over past weeks with Caritas’ annual Lenten Appeal - Project Compassion - well underway in the Diocese.

Sister Maureen, who has been Parish Secretary at Coonabarabran for the past 12 years, takes over from Sister Kathleen Luchetti. Sister Kath was Director of Caritas for the last six years and has now moved from Perthville to Kandos.

The people of our Diocese have always been great supporters of Project Compassion and Sister Maureen hopes this year will be no different. You can send your Lenten Project Compassion donation to Caritas at GPO Box 983, Sydney NSW 2001, or give it to your parish office.

Pictured: Sister Kath and Sister Maureen

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Vicar General Farewelled

St. Brigid’s Parish - Dubbo

Father Aeneas (Hugh) Delaney retired as Vicar General of the Diocese in December 2011 at

the age of 85.

He was appointed Vicar General in October 1992, and took up his full time position in January 1993, continuing in this role until the retirement of Bishop Patrick Dougherty in November 2008. Father Delaney was reinstated as Vicar General in July 2009, following the installation of Bishop McKenna as the eighth Bishop of Bathurst.

Though now retired, Father Delaney continues to serve as a Trustee of the Diocese.

‘Father D’ - as he is fondly known - has been a big part of the Chancery/CDF family for many years and the staff was happy to be able to enjoy a luncheon with him just before Christmas. It was an opportunity for everyone to express their gratitude to Father - not only for his contribution to the Diocese, but also to their own personal lives, and to wish him well in his retirement.

Bishop McKenna presents Father Delaney with a gift during the luncheon

The Christmas story was brought to life for and by the children of St. Brigid’s Parish in Dubbo. Parish

Priest, Father James Cutcliffe, is holding ‘baby Jesus’ Isabelle Graham.

Photo - Pauline Walkom


Last November, a very committed and enthusiastic group of lay and religious

women gathered at the Wellington Caves complex to explore the topic “Quest for the Living God”.

The reflection day was led by Sister Ann Gilroy, a Sister of St. Joseph from Sydney. Sister Ann introduced the topic with the three statements: The search goes on because God is unspeakably OTHER; The search goes on because the human heart is insatiable; The search goes on because of the changing history of human cultures.

All agreed the day gave us new insights into the mystery of God and left us wanting to know more.

Sister Helen Saunders, rsj

The Oberon branch of the Catholic Women’s League celebrated a wonderful

milestone with its Golden Jubilee in November last year.

Celebrations began with Mass celebrated by Father Brian Murphy. Members of the State and Bathurst Diocesan Executive, as well as members from Bathurst, Blayney and Lithgow, joined the Oberon ladies for lunch which was prepared by their daughters, nieces and friends. Several past members from Wagga, Duramana, Bathurst and Oberon

were present also.

Oberon resident, Joy Hogan has been a member since the beginning and was presented with Life Membership in recognition of her 50 years of service in the League.

Pictured right:

State President Carolyn Metcalf, Bathurst Diocesan President Dawn Frazier and Oberon’s new Life Member, Joy Hogan (centre) cutting the cake

Pastoral Associates and friends gather

A league of their own

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Bishop Max Davis leads a very special Diocese – that of the Military Ordinariate. It is different from other dioceses in that it does not have geographic boundaries, rather

it is charged with the pastoral care of the uniformed members of Australia’s Navy, Army and Air Force, their families and the civilians employed by the Department of Defence. Bishop Max tells us a little about his Diocese……

History of the Military OrdinariateFrom the very beginning of Federation, the civil and military authorities recognised that when citizens join the armed services, they would be called upon to become involved in the defence of our nation. This service will often place them in great danger and in situations that are chaotic and very distressing. Of course, we readily accept that they must be supported by the community in every way possible. From the very beginning, it was recognised that one of the areas that must be addressed is their religious and spiritual welfare. Arrangements were entered into between the civil authorities and the Churches so that this care could be given. Churches were invited to supply clergy who could provide this care to the Services. The Bishops of the Catholic Church in Australia designated one of their number to be responsible for the armed services and, because of the location of the Department of Defence and the Service Offices in Melbourne at the time, this responsibility was originally exercised by the Archbishop of Melbourne. The Bishops of Australia agreed to make Chaplains available to him for allocation to the armed forces.In 1969, the Holy See elected to put in place a more formal arrangement - with the consent of the Bishops - by establishing a Military Vicariate in most countries. The Bishop was to be appointed as a Military Vicar - being the vicar of the Holy Father - and a common set of principles and relationships that could apply throughout the world was drawn up. The responsibility for the provision of Priests to be military chaplains remained with the Bishops of the country who would loan them to the Military Vicar for a period of service.

During the Second Vatican Council, the whole question of military service was addressed by the Council Fathers at different times and in different aspects. One of the documents - the Pastoral Constitution on the Church (Gaudium et Spes) - made a very significant statement: “Those who are pledged to the service of their country as members of its armed forces should regard themselves as agents of security and freedom on behalf of their people. As long as they fulfil this role properly, they are making a genuine contribution to the establishment of peace”. This certainly elevated the place of members of the armed services to being people who had a positive contribution to make to the life of the Church. They were now identified formally as being ministers of security and freedom and as being peacemakers. In the Decree on the Pastoral Office of Bishops, the Council said: “Because of the special conditions of the way of life of military personnel, their spiritual care requires extraordinary consideration. ... Both the military vicar and the chaplains should devote themselves unsparingly to this difficult work ... Diocesan bishops should release to the military vicar, a sufficient number of priests who are qualified for this serious work. At the same time, they should promote all enterprises on behalf of improving the spiritual welfare of military personnel”. In the Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests, the Council Fathers identified that particular needs of people might be best served by the establishment of ‘special dioceses’ for the good of the Church.With these principles in mind, in 1985, the Blessed Pope John Paul II issued an Apostolic Constitution which dealt especially with the spiritual care of members of the armed services and their families. This document formally established the Military Ordinariates (in each country) as one of those ‘special dioceses’. So now the Military Bishop was no longer a vicar of the Holy Father, but a Bishop in his own right, with his own diocese and responsibilities.

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like the Parish Priests of our parishes. Even though the military ‘parish’ differs from the usual parish in some ways, the role and function of the priest is exactly the same: the Celebration of the Mass, the administration of the Sacraments, the pastoral care of the sick and bereaved, education and instruction in the faith, counselling and advice, etc. Above all, the priest is the visible presence of the Lord Jesus in the midst of His people and seeks to do what Jesus was sent to do - to draw all into the knowledge and experience of the Father’s love and to embrace the needs and circumstances of the faithful in worship, petition, thanksgiving and praise. The military Chaplain spends his life in

service with his parishioners - sharing their living circumstances, their environment, their dangers and concerns. He is there to administer reconciliation and comfort, to encourage hope, to give guidance and reassurance, to provide spiritual direction, and to be a vital link between the faithful and their Church community. The Chaplain also has a special relationship with the military authorities and is often called upon to provide insight and assessment concerning the lives of the people under command.

The need is greatWe are desperately short of Catholic Chaplains in the Australian Defence Force. The Australian Defence Force has places for about 100 full-time duty Chaplains. According to the ratio defined in the Defence policy, 33 of these should be Catholic Chaplains. Ideally, these should all be Priests. At present, we have

16 (11 Priests, three Deacons, and two Pastoral Associates). Of the priests, four are on loan from the Archdiocese of Melbourne, and one each from the Archdioceses of Sydney and Perth and the Dioceses of Ballarat and Wollongong. The other three are Priests who belong to the Military Diocese as do the Deacons and the Pastoral Associates. It must be recognised that many dioceses have shortages of Priests and that makes it difficult for them to provide them for military service. It must also be recognised that, because of the special circumstances and the particular lifestyle of the armed services, not all Priests are able to become Chaplains.

+ Max DavisBishop of the Australian Defence Force

Military Ordinariate

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The opening of our new school buildings and convent refurbishments took place on 24th October 2011.

The Hon Dr Craig Emerson, representing the Federal Government, opened the building; Dr Emerson is an ex-student of St. John’s. Other official guests were Sister Therese McGarry - Congregational Leader of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Sisters Clare Hopper, Madeline Breen, Mary Schiemer and Maureen Sanderson. Mr Mark Coulton MP, Mayor Mr Peter Shinton, Mr Brian Morrissey - then Acting Executive Director of Education, and Fathers Laurie Beath and Greg Kennedy.It was an enjoyable event for our community and the many visitors who came to celebrate with us.A dinner on the Sunday evening was hosted by the staff in appreciation of those who helped with the success of our BER project and to members of the public who wished to join us for the evening. The following morning saw the official opening, followed by morning tea in the School grounds and tours of the facilities. Our students represented their School with pride and the most wonderful School spirit. We were all so very proud of you. Your contribution to the Opening Ceremony touched the hearts of many.We also had other important guests who were part of the building project. Brother Michael Fitzgerald - who designed the etched glass window of “The Convent”, Mr Charles de Beer - the Building Designer, Mr Gerry Lynch - Building Supervisor from the CEO, Mr Mark Rogers - our builder and other people involved in the construction and furnishings.We are very proud and grateful for what we have. The Building the Education Revolution funding from the Federal Government has given us facilities that we would never have been able to fund.

Raleen Mason

St. John’s School BaradineNew and old come to life

Former students Anne Tassell, Tony Purdy and Hon Dr Craig Emerson with

Sister Therese McGarry

Sisters Clair Hooper, Maureen Sanderson, Therese McGarry, Mary Schiemer and Madeline Breen

St. John’s Principal, Annette Cooney, with Dr Emerson


Instead of winding down in the final weeks of Term 4 last year, students at MacKillop College were extremely

busy learning some very important lessons designed to prepare them for the future. Girls from Y7, Y8 and Y9 took part in Project Based Learning activities over three days. This cross-curricular project involved staff from all faculties co-ordinating their considerable knowledge, resources and time. Y7, under the guidance of Mrs Rochelle Mutton, learned the value of recycling and reusing a variety of materials. Ms Cathy Galvin assisted Y8 to discover the importance of sustainable living, while Y9, with Mrs Annette Welch, were challenged with designing a sustainable island that would keep several generations alive.In preparation for their activities the girls visited a variety of venues including Bathurst’s Sustainable House, Rahamim Country Care, Mr Tim Cox’s straw house on Eleven Mile Drive, the Waste Management Centre, and the Waterworks. Here the girls were informed of the importance of preparing for their future and the many ways they could help to reduce their own carbon footprint. Mrs Annette Welch, co-ordinator of the PBL activities, was both exhausted by and thrilled with the learning that occurred over the three days. “The breadth of learning was amazing. We occasionally underestimate their ability. When they were left in charge, we saw girls who are not normally high achievers produce work of a tremendously high standard. That the vast majority of students attended school, showed clearly the degree of interest and engagement felt by the girls”.

Linda Aldwinkle

MacKillop College BathurstSustaining efforts

The girls listening to Mr Tim Cox in his straw house

Year 8 girls Erika Dwyer, Amelia Logan and Tyra Pedersen building their sustainable house

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St. Lawrence’s CoonabarabranOpening School Mass

The usual Parish Mass on Sunday 19th February, was also the Opening School Mass for St. Lawrence’s Primary School

with students, parents and parishioners worshipping together. 2012 School Captains, Lucy Redden and Jackson Sulter, were presented with their official School blazer and their badges were blessed. Kinder and new students were then presented with a prayer book and rosary beads. Each classroom teacher received a candle to be used on classroom prayer tables. Following Mass, a delicious morning tea was held at the School. This year, once again, promises to be another great one at St. Lawrence’s.

School Captains Jackson Sulter and Lucy Redden

It’s all about smiles and enjoying time with schoolmates after the Opening School Mass


It is with much humility and great joy that I assume my role as Executive Director of Schools in the Diocese of Bathurst and I am very conscious of the privileged

opportunity I have to follow in the path of those educators and leaders who have shaped the mission and vision of the Diocese.

In most recent times, the wide-ranging initiatives implemented by Mr Peter Hill and consolidated by Mr Brian Morrissey, provide a clear and focused direction for our diocesan system of schools. At a time when the education of our young people is high on the national agenda, our strategic direction as a diocese strongly aligns with the renewed emphasis on teacher quality, high expectations, addressing the individual needs of students and building a culture of continuous improvement. In our schools, this occurs within the context of our faith-filled learning environments as we respond to our call to provide high quality Catholic education with Jesus as our inspiration and guide.

In these initial weeks an essential priority for me has been to begin the process of travelling to schools to meet students, staff and parents and the priests of the parishes they serve. As a newcomer to the Diocese and a city girl at that, it is vitally important for me to understand as quickly as possible the unique context of each school community.

From my first day in the Diocese, the wonderful atmosphere of welcome and hospitality has been most evident, highlighting that community and relationships are at the heart of Christ’s teachings.

One of the key elements within the Catholic Education Office’s Strategic Leadership Plan, is to ensure that our system of schools clearly articulates Catholic purpose, identity and culture. As I become more familiar with each school, I am keen to discover how each community lives and shapes its Catholic identity and what their dreams and plans are; how they see this continuing to deepen and unfold as they undertake their evangelising mission within the Church.

It was wonderful to experience on my vis-it to the newly formed Catherine McAu-ley Catholic Primary School in Orange, the ease with which the charism of Catherine McAuley was be-ing embedded, giv-ing life to this newly formed school com-munity. The Year of Grace and the Year of Faith will provide further impetus for all schools and their communities this year to reinvigorate their Catholic identity.

As we commence our year, we do so with the release of the Australian Government’s response to the Gonski Review into Funding for Schooling. At this stage, it provides a theoretical framework, with the Government announcing a further consultation phase which will then help in defining a concrete funding model. The National Catholic Education Commission will be strongly supporting the Review’s call for an additional five billion dollars in funding for all schools and ensuring that the model does not place any additional pressure on families in regard to school fees. The Catholic community can remain fully informed about the issue through accessing www.fundinginfo.catholic.edu.au

As I continue to undertake my role, I will be guided by the words of Pope John Paul II, in Novo Millennio Ineunte, “remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm and look forward to the future with confidence”.

Mrs Jenny Allen

Executive Director of Schools

A Message from the Executive Director of Schools

4 Lewis St Mudgee 6372 1742 www.stmattsmudgee.nsw.edu.au


Portland

What a pleasure and a privilege recently to spend the afternoon with K-1-2 and Mrs Simone Taylor at St. Joseph’s in Portland! Simone has 29 students across

the three grades that constitute Early Stage 1 and Stage 1 and, at the end of this fourth week of Term 1, her students are happy, settled ‘little vegemites’, comfortable and confident with their school routines. An impressive feat in an extremely impressive small school environment, ably led by Mrs Sue Kearns.

Small School - HUGE Hearts!Small Schools? Big hearts providing Quality Catholic Education as well as being the ‘face of the Church’ in their communities!........

Mrs Taylor and some of her students

Manildra

Likewise, the annual School Swimming Carnival at St. Joseph’s Manildra was a lesson in community participation with St. Joseph’s and the local Public

School sharing the day - and the load - competing with and against each other.

The glorious weather added to the success of the day, although Father Fllby was feeling the heat despite his hat and the shade sails!

Matthew French is to be congratulated on taking up his role as Acting Principal in the absence of our much-loved Mrs Jocelyn Farr.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her during this difficult period.

Janine Kearney CEO Dubbo

Father Filby at St. Joseph’s Manildra

231-233 George St Bathurst 2795Phone 6331 1078 Fax 6337 6552Easy Parking - near the cinema

Winter uniform for all Bathurst Schools including Stannies & MKC• All crests locally embroidered

• Large range of trackpants

• Flexibanded trousers for Stannies Jnr, Scots and All Saints

• Hard wearing Parkas

• $7.00 hems on uniform bought at Marietta’s

• Thick warm cotton blend tights

• Layby welcome

• Home of Combined Catholic Uniform Pool

Canowindra

And what a wonderful evening of celebration it was at St. Edward’s Canowindra at the end of last year, in acknowledgement of Sister Patricia Ryan’s contribution

to this school community over the past 16 years. The evening was full of laughs and entertainment and the students shone as they combined talent, entertainment and tribute to farewell this wonderful Sister of St. Joseph from their community. Ken McNamara, his staff, students and community made the evening an appropriate acknowledgment and celebration of thanks to Sister Patricia.

Janine KearneyCEO Dubbo


Holy Family Primary School Kelso

Sr Patricia’s Farewell in Canowindra

Baradine

Congratulations also go to St. John’s Primary Baradine for presenting the most amazing Christmas concert to finish the 2011 school year.

This truly was a major feat, with a remarkable and extremely humorous and contextual script, musical variety, professional sound and unbelievable costumes.

What made this a truly memorable evening however, was the presence and interest of the majority of the Baradine township - and Fathers Greg Kennedy and Laurie Beath – not to mention the delicious meal provided on the school grounds after a wonderful Eucharistic Celebration and prior to the entertainment. Thanks to Annette and staff. You are incredible!


St. John’s Baradine Christmas Concert

Catholic Education Quality Education

(02) 6331 3279www.holyfamilykelso.catholic.edu.au


From little things big things grow! And that’s exactly how our Dubbo schools were able to provide a home-grown welcome to Mrs Jenny Allen, our new Executive Director

of Schools.

It began with an invitation from Kerry Morris (Principal of St. John’s College) to a whole school assembly. Not to let an opportunity go by, our primary schools opted to be introduced to Jenny within their own school contexts to enable staff and students to meet, greet and make that introductory connection.

The Principals, Warren Frew and myself shared a relaxing and enjoyable meal with Jenny the evening before, so that her time in the four Primary schools could be centred on those school communities. We were all very impressed with Mrs Allen’s warmth and sincerity and I certainly appreciated her skills of observation and ability to connect and respond to each school environment.

I’m sure Jenny is looking forward to similar visits to our other wonderful school communities as she takes up the geographic challenge of navigating our Diocese.

Janine Kearney CEO Dubbo

Mrs Jenny Allen with Principal and Executive at St. Laurence’s Dubbo

Teachers in the Diocese recently had the opportunity to attend Professional Development sessions to build their skill levels on the use of Interactive Whiteboards in the

classroom. The benefits of using interactive whiteboards include catering for students with different learning styles, as information can be presented both visually and verbally; and with interactive resources, students are required to move, to help cater for those who are kinaesthetic learners as well.

Learning sessions were held in both Bathurst and Dubbo to ensure equal access to professional learning and attendees were from both Primary and Secondary Schools. Teachers spent their time learning the ‘tricks of the trade’ with the newest software for creating interactive resources spanning a variety of learning areas. They learnt to annotate over resources; create ‘rub and reveal’ activities and animated visual resources to make the teaching and learning an engaging experience for students in their classrooms.

Many attendees will take their new skills back to their schools to support their colleagues’ learning and to update their interactive whiteboard knowledge.

Teachers from Dubbo, Coolah, Eugowra and Yeoval with presenter Matthew Gillard

Dubbo welcomes New Executive Director

Bathurst teachers stay up to date with technology


Principals in the Diocese gathered at Rydges, Mount Panorama in Bathurst last month. Two new Principals, Sister Margaret Flood from St. Michael’s

Dunedoo and Ms Jane Scahill from St. Brigid’s in Coonamble, were welcomed by the group, as was Mr Matthew French, Acting Principal of St. Joseph’s Manildra.

The first session was led by Professor Rev Dr van Thanh Nguyen, a renowned biblical scholar from the Divine Word Missionaries, who placed the Letters of St. Paul within the context of Imperial Rome and challenged those present to recognise their own imperial systems and step outside their complacency. Professor Nguyen’s visit was co-ordinated by Mr Michael Deasey, Director of Catholic Mission for the Diocese and Father Henry Adler, from the Divine Word Missionaries.

Eucharist was celebrated in the Cathedral with Father Joshy Kaithakulangara CMI, before the Principals and CEO staff gathered again for dinner at Rydges.

Day Two began with our new Executive Director of Schools,

Mrs Jenny Allen. Mrs Allen outlined her career in education, explained her educational philosophy and sought feedback from Principals on priorities in the Diocese. Father Paul Devitt, Episcopal Vicar for Education and Mr Paul Crennan, Chair of the Diocesan Catholic Education Council, then explained the role of the Council and asked for expressions of interest from Principals for its RE and Finance sub-committees.

Learning and Teaching dominated the rest of the agenda with Ms Lyndal Harrison introducing Reading to Learn, Sara Murray and Jane Mitchell from CSU outlining some fascinating findings of the student effort study in our schools and Sarah McDonagh explaining the work with DIBELS (Dynamic Indicator of Basic Early Literacy Skills).

Finally, the CEO Chief Financial Officer, Mrs Jo Chirgwin, outlined the budget and the changes to the clerical assistance for schools. Because of the floods, there was an early finish to accommodate safe travel home.

Gene Smith

Principals meet in Bathurst

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“Christ is My Light”

Professor Rev Dr van Thanh Nguyen


‘Management is efficiency in climbing the ladder of success; leadership determines whether the ladder is leaning against the right wall’ (Stephen Covey)

We welcome two new Principals to our Diocese in 2012 - Sister Margaret Flood at St. Michael’s in Dunedoo and Jane Scahill at St. Brigid’s in Coonamble.

Sister Margaret hails from Sacred Heart in Orange where she was Assistant Principal. She has also held leadership roles in various schools in our Diocese, including Primary Co-ordinator at St. Joseph’s Central School in Oberon and Principal at St. Joseph’s in Molong. St. Michael’s Dunedoo is certainly pleased to be welcoming a Sister of St. Joseph back into the school, parish and wider community. Likewise, Jane is a huge asset to the St. Brigid’s community. This is the school which launched her teaching career and she has strong family connections in the district. Jane has held various positions both within and outside our Diocese and has come to St. Brigid’s from her role as “the backbone” at St. Mary’s Central School in Wellington. Congratulations and welcome ladies! Your ladders are indeed ‘resting’ in the right places!


New Northern Leadership

HSC and School Certificate 2011HSC Achievements

Ms Jane Scahill (Conamble) and Sister Margaret Flood (Dunedoo)

In 2011, 388 students sat for the Higher School Certificate in the four high schools in the Bathurst Diocese: La Salle Academy Lithgow, MacKillop

College Bathurst, James Sheahan Orange and St. John’s College Dubbo. Courses were offered in 60 subjects and included extension courses in English, Mathematics, Music and History. In addition to the written examinations, students had to produce major works in Music, Drama, Design and Technology, Visual Arts, Dance, Textiles and Industrial Technology and sit for oral examinations in French and Japanese. Students were also provided with avenues for external study in a variety of vocational and academic courses.

Schools performed very well with many excellent individual and whole school results. There were 164 Band 6 results awarded to 80 students in the four high schools. Band 6 is the highest achievement and was awarded in many courses across the curriculum. Three Premiers’ Awards were presented to students who had achieved Band 6 in all of their subjects. Emily Barlow (MacKillop College), Emily Heffernan (MacKillop College), Madelaine Clifford (James Sheahan) received these very prestigious awards.

The recent Bathurst Diocesan Awards Ceremony in Orange recognised the outstanding results achieved by the students. Students from MacKillop College led

a moving prayer and James Sheahan Concert Band and St. John’s College String ensemble entertained the audience.

Mrs Jenny Allen, the newly appointed Executive Director of Schools for the Diocese, welcomed students, parents and teachers and wished students well in their future careers. She encouraged them to persevere in whatever they undertook, a lesson echoed strongly in the presentation from the guest speaker, Mrs Lisa Benton, ex student and dux of SJC and owner of the Orana Pharmacy in Dubbo which won the Australian Pharmacy of the Year in 2011. Lisa’s message of working hard and making the most of every opportunity provided, allowed her to achieve her goals. The recipients of the special awards for their achievement in the HSC were: Emily Barlow (MKC) 99.2 (CDF Scholarship for Highest Diocesan ATAR); Emily Heffernan (MKC) 48/50 Studies of Religion I (Highest Diocesan Mark 2011); Ayla Manwaring (JSh)95/100 Studies of Religion II (Highest Diocesan Mark 2011).

Certificates were also presented to those students who have achieved Honour Listings in their chosen courses of study for the Higher School Certificate.

Congratulations to the HSC class of 2011 and best wishes in your future careers.


The School Certificate tests were held in November and nearly 600 students in eight schools across the Diocese sat for this. Students from the four high schools and

the four K-10 schools, St. Matthew’s Mudgee, St. Mary’s Wellington, St. Raphael’s Cowra and St. Joseph’s Oberon again achieved excellent results. These tests review skills in English, Mathematics, Science, History and Geography and Computing. In addition to these tests the students must study Religion, a variety of courses in Mathematics and Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), a Language other than English, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Creative Arts and Technology and Applied Studies for the School Certificate. The study of Information and Communication Technology is embedded in all Key Learning Areas.

Three of the schools - St. Mary’s Wellington, St. Matthew’s Mudgee and MacKillop College Bathurst - had every subject above the NSW State mean.

At the Awards Night in Orange, the CDF Scholarship for School Certificate Academic Excellence was awarded to the following students who achieved a top band in every subject in the six School Certificate tests: Julia O’Shea, MacKillop College Bathurst; Matthew Doohan and Catherine Joseph, St. John’s College; Makaela Bowman and Ashley Cunial, James Sheahan Catholic High School Orange.

Congratulations to the students, their families and their teachers on these excellent results.

School Certificate Success

Guests were entertained by musical performances from the St. John’s College Dubbo Senior Strings Ensemble and the James Sheahan Concert Band. (Photo: members of the St. John’s College Dubbo Senior Strings Ensemble)

One of the five Year 10 students who received awards this year, Ashleigh Cunial, Year 10 student from James Sheahan Catholic High School, accepts her Scholarship award and Diocesan medal from Mr Tony Eviston, Manager of the Catholic Development Fund

Emily Barlow, Year 12 student from MacKillop College Bathurst, achieved the highest Diocesan ATAR score and received an education scholarship and medal from the Catholic Development Fund Manager, Mr Tony Eviston


About 1,500 Sisters of Mercy, their friends, families and ministry colleagues gathered at St. Mary’s

Cathedral in Sydney on Sunday, 18th December 2011, for the foundation Eucharist of the newly established Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG).This historic occasion, also attended by members of other religious congregations and many bishops and priests from dioceses throughout Australia and PNG, heralded the beginning of a new era for the Sisters of Mercy.Just six days earlier on December 12th, the 180th anniversary of the founding of the Order of Mercy in Ireland by Venerable Catherine McAuley, 14 of the 17 Australian Mercy congregations, along with their sisters from the Autonomous Region of PNG, came together as one new institute for their first Chapter.During this inaugural chapter, held at Baulkham Hills in Sydney, 60 representatives of the 930-strong group of sisters elected a new leadership group, comprising Sisters Berneice Loch (Institute Leader), Annette Schneider (Vicar), Theresia Tina (Councillor), Barbara Bolster (Councillor) and Sally Bradley (Councillor).Speaking to those gathered at St. Mary’s Cathedral, newly elected leader, Sister Berneice Loch said there was a “deep concern” among sisters gathered at the chapter about the “vast extent of displacement in our world: displacement within individuals who have suffered various forms of trauma; the far more obvious ways of displaced people – economic and political refugees among them; displacement experienced in environmental devastation and change”.

Sister Berneice added: “Making a response calls for local action and always will, but to make a difference we need also to work for change at national and international levels.For many years, the 17 Australian congregations and the Autonomous Region of PNG, who were federated in the Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia in 1981, have been searching for the best way to nurture their unity and to strengthen their capacity for engaging in God’s mission of mercy in this 21st century.On July 20th this year, the Holy See approved the petition for the new Institute to take effect at the commencement of its first chapter on December 12th. On that day, each of the 15 groups ceased to be a separate canonical and legal entity

and its sisters became members of the new Institute.The 15 uniting groups, comprising some 930 sisters, are Adelaide, Ballarat East, Bathurst, Cairns, Goulburn, Grafton, Gunnedah, Melbourne, Papua New Guinea, Perth, Rockhampton, Singleton, Townsville, West Perth and Wilcannia-Forbes.While three of the existing 17 congregations - Brisbane, North Sydney and Parramatta - will remain independent, they and the Sisters in the Institute are anticipating ways of continuing to collaborate and share their common Mercy heritage and their love of their founder Catherine McAuley.Former Congregational Leader of the Bathurst Mercies, Sister Gabriella Gresz, said “The Eucharist on the 18th December was a wonderful celebration of God’s gifts to the Mercy Order as well as an expression of deep trust in and gratitude for God’s abiding care and guidance in bringing the 14 former Mercy congregations to this point. As St. Mary’s Cathedral was filled with the voices of the Papua New Guinea sisters when they moved up the central aisle in the Offertory Procession, the sense of new life was evoked.A considerable number of the sisters of the former Bathurst Congregation were able to be present at the Mass, together with many relatives, friends, co-workers and associates. The Congregations engaged in the process of reconfiguring their structures in order that our engagement in Mission may be more effective. We look forward to taking up this challenge in trust and hope knowing that: From God’s fullness We have all received, Grace upon grace (Jn 1: 16)”.

Mercies Unite

The Papua New Guinea Sisters during the Offertory Procession - Photos courtesy Beth Doherty

Bathurst Leader, Sister Gabriella Gresz (left), at the Mass


Dong Nguyen, a pre-seminarian who had been having parish experience in Dunedoo,

Coolah, Elong and Mendooran since September, was farewelled by each of the communities in January.Dong had contributed to parish

worship through playing the organ for Sunday Masses in Dunedoo and training altar servers in Coolah. He also showed his gifts as a Vietnamese chef, driver for the parish priest, vegie grower, handyman on farms and in the presbytery, as well as playing soccer

and spending time with the students in the two parish schools. The parishioners wished him well for his studies at Good Shepherd Seminary, Homebush, which began in February.

Father Carl Mackander

On 2nd June this year, MacKillop College - formerly the Diocesan Catholic Girls’ High School - will

celebrate its 45th year.

A whole school reunion is planned for alumni, both staff and students, from the Dio, MacKillop and St. Josephs College Perthville.

Celebrations will be held over the weekend of 2nd - 3rd June 2012. The activities for the weekend include tours of the School and St. Joseph’s, Perthville, Mass at the Cathedral on Saturday evening, followed by the reunion dinner at Panthers, Piper St, Bathurst .

If your class is celebrating a particular milestone this year, you are very welcome to have your celebration as part of the general reunion.

For more information contact Kathy Ashley at MacKillop College on 02 6338 2200 or by email at diomkc.reunion @ gmail.com.

Pictured Right: MacKillop College Reunion Committee Beth Pratley, Simone Carroll, Kathy Ashley, Lee Prendergast and Helen Howard

Sharon Schoenmaker

Dong’s Parish Farewells

Dong with Robert Gauci, Sam O’Leary and Rory O’Donnell at St. Therese’s Church, Elong

Dong with the parishioners after Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Coolah

MacKillop to celebrate 45 years


Manna Fest 2012 had several aspects which will mark it in the memory for

some time to come; a great venue change, mud footy, floods which meant missing friends, moving liturgies and presentations, a good ole bush dance, goodbyes and fantastic MCs!

With the Central West roads being cut left, right and centre on the Friday of Manna Fest, there was no way to know who would make it; sadly the Cowra mob couldn’t, but all who made it had a wonderful time.

Indeed it was wonderful to be there, on the top of a mountain, with the gospel of the transfiguration our guide for the weekend.

Stand by Me was the theme for the weekend; just as Moses and Elijah stood by Jesus revealing his true self we explored what it truly means to stand by Jesus and for Jesus to stand by us.

Thank you to all who made the weekend possible, from leaders and adults to our fantastic participants. Remember you are called to be a messenger of God.

Stand by me.

STAND BY ME


MANNA FEST 2012Friends,

I have now finished in my role as Ministry Coordinator for the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst and started working for the Australian Bishops Conference as Youth Ministry Projects Officer. It is a role full of exciting opportunities to continue supporting youth ministry in Australia. I am fortunate that I do not have to uproot my family and I will have office space in the Chancery in Bathurst in which to be based.

I have had the honour and privilege of ministering with young people for almost seven years on a diocesan level, which I could not have done without the love and support of my family. My ministry is very much my husband Patrick’s also.

It has been an amazing part of my life, with some enormous highs and many challenges along the way. Not only have I watched and been part of the lives of some beautiful young people, and seen their faith grow, but their witness has been an inspiring and renewing element for my own faith journey.

Manna Fest 2012 was a very rewarding way to finish up, being amongst young people; with both new and old faces. It was quite emotional; I had to often avoid eye contact with several people, lest I be overwhelmed.

At its conclusion, Bishop Michael asked everyone to let him know their thoughts on how the next phase in youth ministry might look, asking them and others to share their ideas and hopes. It is certainly my hope that the desire to continue the mission of engaging our young people speaks to the hearts of many and the Bishop is overwhelmed with ideas or at least support. I will lend my recommendations to the pile; I hope you do too.

I have been blessed over and over by my encounters with young people and those who support them in their local communities. Manna Fest and BLAST don’t happen without the support and the passion of people in the parishes ... I thank you all for your part in that......sharing that passion gives young people the opportunity to see that they belong to a faith community that reaches beyond boarders of parish, diocese and country. If things like Manna Fest give you one thing, I hope that it is that...You are not alone.

My greatest wish is that everyone comes to know they are truly loved, in our crazy brokenness and within our contradictions. God loves you and wants you to share that love with everyone you encounter so that they too may know how much they are loved. Imagine for a moment what your immediate circle of family and friends would be like if they all knew - really, truly, knew - that they were loved, and they had nothing to prove. I know it is hard to imagine, but wouldn’t it be amazing! You can be part of what opens their eyes to this.

I have met, worked with and laughed with many of you over the last seven years. I have formed friendships that will certainly not fade. I look forward to seeing the next phase and helping out as a member of the Diocesan community. I have given youth ministry in Bathurst my whole heart over these years; thank you for sharing the journey with me.

Gabrielle


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Cowra Parish Priest - Father Laurie Beath, Sister Robyn McNamara, Helen Ryan and Catechists from St. Raphael’s Parish celebrated lunch at the Japanese

Gardens Café recently, in honour of Jann Whitty who has resigned as SRE Co-ordinator after 16 years.Jann was thanked for her assistance and presented with flowers on behalf of past and present Catechists. During our lunch, we also celebrated Bernie Sheehy’s birthday. Jann will continue to teach Year 6 students, while Annie Meyers has now taken on the position of SRE Co-ordinator.

Helen Ryan

Thanks Jann!

Bernie Sheehy (left) celebrates her birthday with Jann Whitty

Annie Meyers presenting Jann Whitty with flowersFather Laurie, Sister Robyn McNamara, Helen Ryan and Catechists celebrate lunch for Jann Whitty


ZoosnooZ

To end a fantastic 2011, our wonderful P & F funded an awesome excursion to Taronga Western Plains Zoo for a ‘ZoosnooZ’ experience for both teachers and students. We

made our way to the Zoo for the night time activities which everyone agreed was truly a unique experience; what we saw and did that night will not be forgotten. We saw rhinos, camels, hippos and giraffes up very, very close as they settled down for the night and saw a completely different side to the Zoo. Once again we saw what beautiful students we have here as

our senior students guided some very tired little legs back to camp and bed. Our guides were hugely complimentary and said they had never had a school as polite, well mannered and as genuinely friendly. Thank you again to our parent body for giving us this special memory.

Welcome to new families

A huge welcome to Jack Hayes, Leslie Rouse, Jack Deutscher, Isabelle Stanford, Olivia Inder, Ella Xuereb and Natalie Williams and their families to St. Michael’s. We are

sure you will enjoy your time with us, The Kinders have started their first year of school with confidence and enjoyment. This was helped along by their buddies in Year 6. At St. Michael’s each Kinder child has a Y6 student who helps them with their transition in the first few weeks. They are there to do up shoe laces, help them find things, play games and

generally assist, if needed. Thank you to our Y6 for their continuous guidance of little people.

New year begins well

St. Michael’s celebrated our opening School Mass and Carnival in February. Our small school spirit and sense of family was prevalent throughout the day and a relaxed

atmosphere made for a very enjoyable day for everyone.At our Mass, we awarded the Ministers their badges for their different areas of responsibility and some proud parents were the ones to put their badges on. Ally Bogie received our first ‘Aussie of the Week’ award, for being someone who is always kind to others, with a big smile. Sister Margaret Flood, rsj

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About 60 relatives and friends joined Maurice Sullivan at St. Michael’s Church, Dunedoo in

January for one of his Golden Jubilee of Ordination celebrations. After the 10.00am parish Mass, they adjourned to the home of Chris and Therese Sullivan, an original Sullivan house in Dunedoo, for a meal. Sister Helen Sullivan rsj, a cousin of Maurice, prayed the Grace and also made a congratulatory speech on behalf of the family. He was thanked for being the one in the extended Sullivan clan who was always there to listen and encourage when challenges and troubles were being experienced. Maurice’s brother Dan, of Dubbo, also spoke in support of the good wishes for the Jubilarian and proposed the toast.Maurice entered the Vincentian Seminary in 1955 and pursued studies in Philosophy and Theology and was ordained by Bishop Norton at St. Stanislaus’ College on 10th February 1962.His priestly life has been a varied and interesting one which included time at two Vincentian Colleges in Bathurst and Bendigo. He also carried out overseas catechetical studies in the Philippines and on his return to Australia, was involved in ministry concerning the promotion of vocations.

He was also Parish Priest of Vincentian parishes at Marsfield and Ashfield in Sydney, Kwinana in Western Australia and Malvern in Melbourne. There was also a time as Spiritual Director at the Diocesan Seminary in Adelaide. In 1997, Maurice became Provincial of the Australian Province, which includes Fiji. At the conclusion of his six year term, he was asked to become part time Secretary

of the Asian-Pacific Visitors’ Conference and to combine that with the position of President at St. Stanislaus’ College.Maurice suffered a health setback when he experienced a stroke as he was about to perform a family wedding at Kincumber in 2004. After rehabilitation, he took up his present ministry as Chaplain at Marist College four days a week.

Father Carl Mackander

Golden Jubilee of Ordination for Father Maurice Sullivan cm

Father Maurice Sullivan cm with some of his relatives and friends after his Golden Jubilee Mass at St. Michael’s Church Dunedoo


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Farewell to Year 10At the end of each year St.

Raphael’s School in Cowra celebrates and farewells Year 10

students as they begin the next phase of their life journey. It is always with some sadness that we celebrate Graduation Day as these students have been a very important part of the school community. It is also with joy and anticipation that the School sends these young people on their way, wishing them every joy and blessing for the future. In 2011, 32 graduates experienced their final school assembly followed by the Graduation Mass and Dinner in the evening with the graduates being joined by their families for the evening’s festivities. Susan Whiteley

Silver Jubilee CelebrationsOn 20th November 2011, the

parishioners of Orange gathered at the 9.30am Mass at St. Mary’s

church to celebrate with Parish Priest, Father Paul Devitt. Father Paul returned to Orange in January last year and the parish was honoured to be able to mark the important milestone of 25 years in priestly ministry. Members of his family were present and this added to the joyful atmosphere. After Mass parishioners enjoyed a sausage sizzle in the grounds and the cutting and sharing of the cake, appropriately decorated in the colours of the “Raiders”.

Sister Helen Saunders, rsj Father Paul cuts his cake


MSC Mission OfficePO Box 177, NSW 1465Ph: 02 9697 0983 / 9662 7188Email: [email protected]

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A work from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart for helping families, young people, schools and religious formation.

MSC development projects seek to improve the conditions of communities in a sustainable way. It is based on work-ing with communities, rather than for or on behalf of communities. The MSC Mission Office relies on benefactors to support the Outreach activities for Water projects, Disadvantaged Youth, HIV/AIds, Relief & Formation.

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The MSC Mission Office is a work of the Australian Province of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and while we try to love the world, the work of the MSC Mission Office has concentrated its energies. We have restricted ourselves to three main areas for financial assistance.

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AUSTRALIA $ 49,600BURKINA FASO $ 8,650CAMEROON $ 62,500D.R.CONGO $ 81,500EL SALVADOR $ 7,500FIJI $ 120,850HAITI $ 10,000INDIA $ 110,375INDONESIA $ 56,550KIRIBATI $ 18,500MARSHALL ISLANDS $ 7,000NAMIBIA $ 14,000NEW ZEALAND $ 2,000PHILIPPINES $ 61,000PNG $ 200,290SENEGAL $ 15,300SOUTH AFRICA $ 42,000SOUTH SUDAN $ 42,000TIMOR LESTE $ 2,000VANUATU $ 14,600VIETNAM $ 96,400TOTAL FUNDING ALL PROJECTCATEGORIES 2011 $ 1,022,615

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Born at Porters Retreat in the Oberon Parish in 1915 and professed at Perthville in 1932, Sister. Mary Maloney

was a great lady who made a wonderful contribution to the story of the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Catholic Church in the Bathurst Diocese. Her lifelong love and commitment to God over 82 years of living in the Congregation can only be admired, valued and copied with heartfelt gratitude to God for all that it was. Mary was the youngest in a family of 10, with six brothers and three sisters, all of whom predeceased her. Her mother died when she was five years old, her father when she was 12. He had stated in his will that Mary was to stay at school until she was 15. By that time, she had decided that she “just wanted to be a nun”. Some of her family raised objections, but she took no notice of them and entered the Novitiate in May 1930. The events of Mary’s life parallel in many ways the changes and events in the growth of the Congregation and changes in society. Mary lived in the new Novitiate building and was in the first group to study under Dr Thompson’s system of teacher training, the Perthville Training School having been registered in 1932. She began her teaching in 1933 in Cumnock and taught in many parish schools

throughout the Diocese. From 1953 onwards she was often Superior of the convent too. In Mary’s records, there is a one line entry which covers 15 years of her ministry to the Congregation. It reads simply: Perthville - administration! The achievements of this era are landmarks in the history of the Perthville Josephites. Elected Bursar General of the Congregation in 1960, she held this important position during an intense phase of building and consolidation with extensions to the kitchen and College, erection of the Chapel, building and foundation of St. Anne’s aged-care facility and the setting up of the Convent at Crows Nest to provide accommodation for Sisters studying. As first Superior of St. Anne’s, Mary established a beautiful spirit among the Sisters there and she

considered its establishment her life’s main work. She loved looking after the older Sisters, taking them places in the car and making St. Anne’s a home. The spirit of homeliness and community she fostered endures today.In 1965, Mary was elected First Assistant to the Congregational Leader, a position she held for the next 10 years, a time of great change in Religious Life following the Vatican Council. Along with Sister. June Cleary, she worked with leaders from other diocesan Josephites in taking the first formal steps towards Federation and was involved in establishing our mission foundation in Papua New Guinea. The twinkle in Mary‘s blue eyes bespoke her keen sense of humour and resourcefulness was always her great attribute. She was determined not to let any obstacle get in the way of what needed to be done. When recalling her many gifts, one remembers her quiet unassuming nature, compassion and loyalty. She was a steadfast friend, a confidante, a risk taker with a sense of adventure. She had deep trust in the providence of her God. May Sister Mary Maloney rest in the Lord from her many labours and may her good deeds go with her. May her gentle soul rest in peace.(Contributed by Sister Mary Schiemer rsj)

Catherine was born in Bathurst on 7th March 1922 and was the 10th child in a family of 13. Her parents were

Catherine and William Ryan of O’Connell who were pupils at the O’Connell Convent School, between 1880-90. Catherine spent some time at the same school and at a State School at Bloom Hill. At the age of 14 her father died and Catherine did domestic work for neighbours as well as working with her family on their family farm. Still feeling the need for further education she was tutored by Sister Antonio at O’Connell for the Nurses Entrance which she passed. There was also an awakening of a call to Religious life. However, because of her brother Matt’s illness and her mother’s need for her at home, Catherine delayed any plans until a Mission in O’Connell when she spoke to Father Rohan about her future. She kept in contact with this priest who encouraged her to join ‘the locals’.In March 1943, her brother Arthur, home on leave from the Middle East, took Catherine to Perthville in their horse and sulky and she entered the Sisters of St. Joseph. She was received on 24th Sept 1943, professed on 3rd Oct 1945 and made life Vows on 3rd Oct. 1951. In her earlier years she was known as “Sister Aloysius”.Over many years Catherine taught infants

to primary classes in Manildra, Gilgandra, Gulgong, Coolah, Baradine, Portland, Canowindra, Oberon, Assumption and from 1974-79 she was appointed to the Motor Mission and worked in the State Schools of Dunedoo, Coolah, Mendooran and Gulgong. She was particularly happy in this ministry. In 1981 she moved to St. Joseph’s, Blayney as Religious Education Co-Ordinator where she made a significant contribution especially in the Secondary department.She was a gentle person to live with but there was an absolute strength of mind. Catherine could talk her way through situations and she usually came out in charge.From 1985-86 Catherine was secretary at St. Joseph’s College, Perthville, followed by a time in Molong, before she moved

back to Perthville to provide pastoral care for the Rockley/Burraga area. She had a great rapport with parishioners, and those in the local community wherever she lived. She was interested in people’s lives, their plans, their sorrows and joys and had time for everyone.A very special part of Catherine’s life was her immediate and extended family. There was much happiness but also sadness as she faced illness, sorrow and death of family members. Regular family contact through letters, phone calls and visits were important to Catherine, as was regular communication with her many friends.Catherine’s relationship with God was very deep and personal. Two special times for her were a year of Renewal at the National Pastoral Institute in Melbourne in 1980 and in 1985 she was accepted to do the Carmelite School of Prayer at Minto and after that she made several directed retreats. Catherine had a love of Scripture, Prayer of the Church and the writings of the mystics. Her life was grounded in Eucharist and she lived out her baptismal commitment and Josephite calling with trust, simplicity, humility, compassion, hospitality and joy in her everyday life while coping with physical weakness. May she rest in peace.

(Contributed by Sr Therese Patterson rsj)

Sister Mary Maloney (known as Sr Mary Edward) 1915 ~ 2012

Sister Catherine Ryan rsj 1922 ~ 2011


James (Jim) McGuinn was born on 12th September 1917 in Dubbo, the third son of Denis and Rosa Mary McGuinn (nee Guigni). His grandparents were Irish immigrants Luke and Susan McGuinn. He was educated by the Sisters of Mercy and the De La Salle Brothers in Dubbo and later St. Columba’s College in Springwood and St. Patrick’s College in Manly. His Great Uncle was Father Luke McGuinn, who ministered in SA and NSW in the mid to late 1800s.Jim did not walk until he was six years old because of rheumatic fever (we think). His mother wheeled Jim to Mass every morning at St. Brigid’s in Dubbo in a special pram, asking Our Lady of Lourdes to intervene. His mother claimed it was a miracle when at six, he just stood up and walked. (Many years later while on sabbatical in Europe, he visited the Shrine of Our Lady at Lourdes to thank her for his healing). During the time in the pram, he had a wonderful Mecano and train set; thus began his great curiosity for investigating ‘how things work’.He was ordained on 25th July 1944 in St. Brigid’s Dubbo by Bishop John Norton and then followed appointments in Orange, Coonabarabran, Bathurst, Bowenfels, Wellington and Molong in various roles of Assistant Priest, Parish Priest and Administrator. He was also Chaplain at Bloomfield Hospital and Bathurst Correctional Centre as well as Diocesan Chancellor.A great lover of family and the next

generations, Jim officiated at most family weddings, baptisms and 21st birthdays. He loved parties and the young people of the family. Not long after Jim and brother Frank were made Monsignors, they turned up in full regalia to officiate at the marriage of his niece - one of the few times we saw Jim in his biretta, as he was a humble man. Jim was generous - many of us experienced that generosity and many more never saw the way he was Eucharist for others through his charitable and generous offerings.Jim was a man of prayer and devotion but he wasn¹t pious. Being in the presence of God was often a dry, dark experience for him, yet he remained faithful to the daily Prayer of the Church and visits to the Blessed Sacrament. He remained young by associating with younger priests, whom he would say led him astray. One of the contrasts in Jim was his being young in outlook and friendships, yet remaining very traditional

in his theology and liturgical opinions. He had been trained as a pre-Vatican II priest, yet was gifted in being able to connect with contemporary society and its younger members.Jim retired on 1st April 1989 and lived in Orange until his move to St. Catherine’s Hostel in Bathurst last year.In his homily at the Mass of Christian Burial, Bishop McKenna said, “Jim McGuinn persevered, in the face of great obstacles, to follow his vocation to become a priest of the Diocese of Bathurst. One of his great allies in that was the late Father Cecil Loneragan. Bishop Norton, who had to be persuaded to accept Jim, said at Loneragan’s funeral: With an imperturbability that could only have come from great faith, he waited for the end. I would apply those very words to Jim in these past few weeks. On the last morning of his life on earth, Jim took a turn for the worse just before Mass began at St. Catherine’s. Monsignor Peter Shannon was called to anoint him. God works among us in his own ways, often unseen. But in the sacraments his action is made visible. I am sure that Jim was ready for death, but this final anointing was a gift and comfort to all of us who mourn him and who pray for the faith which will lead us to follow him rejoicing to the House of the Lord”.May he rest in peace.

(extract from Eulogy given by Fr Garry McKeown)

Margaret Press, who died in Bathurst on 12th December 2011, was a significant figure

not just for the Bathurst Diocese but the wider Australian Church.Known then as Sister Michael, Margaret was professed as a Perthville Josephite in 1943 and taught in schools across the Diocese including Portland, Canowindra, Perthville and Bathurst where she was an original staff member of what is now known as MacKillop College. She went on to become the second Principal of MacKillop.Her significant contribution to education resulted in a request to join the staff of the Catholic Teachers’ College in North Sydney; following this she joined the staff of the seminary - St. Patrick’s Manly - teaching Latin and English literature. Margaret made a significant contribution to the history of the Sisters of St. Joseph with the publication of the life of Fr Julian Tenison Woods, the co-founder of the

Order. From this followed an invitation to write the history of the Church in South Australia which resulted in a number of published works.Returning from Adelaide to Sydney, Margaret resumed teaching at the seminary and freelance writing and lecturing. Amid all this, there was also an ongoing focus in Margaret’s life to the needs of the disadvantaged and she volunteered her time with numerous organisations - the Asylum Seekers Centre, the Josephite East Timor project, the Jesuit Refugee

Service, among others. Margaret retained over her many years, simplicity of life and a gift for friendship. She had a great love of, and loyalty to, her Josephite sisters and maintained significant friendships with those she encountered over her long and varied life. All of that was grounded in her faithfulness to prayer and her devotion to the Mass. A resident at Macquarie Care in her last months, Margaret still managed to attend Mass on a regular basis; a week before her death she was at the Sunday Eucharist in the Cathedral where she had made her first communion 82 years earlier.On 17th December 2011, Bishop Michael McKenna was the principal celebrant of the Eucharist where Margaret was farewelled by a large congregation of her many friends.

(Contributed by Sister Kathleen Luchetti rsj)

Monsignor James McGuinn 1917 ~ 2012

Sister Margaret Press rsj 1922 ~ 2011


The Catholic Observer is published by the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst (Diocesan Publications)

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The Catholic Observer is a member of the Australasian Catholic Press Association and the Australasian Religious Press Association.

15th - Mass in Saint Joseph’s Mt. Canonical Interrogation of Novices for Profession. Cool change in the evening & COOL NIGHT, Deo Gratias.16th - Mass in Oratory. Cool morning. Some showers. Conducted Canonical Interrogation of Novices.17th - Mass in Oratory. Cool day.18th - Mass at 8.30 Saint Joseph’s Mt. [in South Bathurst, Novitiate of the Sisters of Mercy]. Professed Sisters Brendan [Hayes], Fedelma, Thomas and Francis [Gleeson], and received Sister Felicitas. [Several of these were an integral part of my own education!]. Cool morning. Fr Gleeson ofm preached [Sr Francis’ brother, I believe]. Good numbers of clergy. Father [James] Nolan back from his holiday, in good form, most entertaining regarding what he saw in USA en route.19th - Mass in [Bishop’s House] Oratory.

Visited [St. Joseph’s Girls’] Orphanage, work on new wing almost complete. [I lived in this, the ‘Convent’ wing of the old Orphanage, as a newly-ordained priest in the 1980s – by then it was the Cathedral Presbytery]. Fr [John] Cass had tonsils out. Saw him in the evening. [Ironically Fr Cass retired to the same wing just after I arrived, in January 1986!]

BISHOP NORTON’S DIARY – 1939Edited by Fr Tim Cahill

The opening ceremony for the new Infant de Prague Centre was held on 18th November 2011. St. Mary’s was delighted to welcome Senator Matt Thistlethwaite who gave a warm address and unveiled the plaque.Mr Brian Morrissey (then Acting Executive Director of Schools) and Mr Simon Price (Principal of St. Mary’s) addressed the

gathering and Parish Priest Father Tony Hennessy blessed the new building.Another highlight was the School Band performing ‘Stadium Rock’. Many community members attended and the P & F provided a lovely morning tea.

Jennifer Simpson

St. Mary’s ~ Wellington

Mr Simon Price, Senator Matt Thistlethwaite and Architect Mr Peter Ferguson


The students of St. Joseph’s School in Portland enjoyed beautiful weather as they participated in their Annual

Swimming Carnival in February.

The Infants and Primary students joined for lunch and all students concluded the day by relaxing in the pool with family and friends.

The children received their ribbons and were congratulated on the day for their fine efforts and positive attitude towards competition. Mrs Kearns thanks the children’s parents, carers and teachers for their contributions toward the running of the carnival.

St. Joseph’s School Portland would like to thank the Portland Pool Committee for the lovely lunch and assisting with the setup of the pool.

Also in February, a team of students progressed onto the Bathurst/ Eastern Region Carnival. The students must be congratulated for their team effort and excellent sportsmanship on the day. St. Joseph’s School would also like to thank parents and families for transporting and supporting our students on the day.

Shireen Sheehan

The Lagoon

The tiny rural hamlet of The Lagoon lies south east of Bathurst. The Lagoon was mentioned in 1854 as

a part of the large Bathurst mission, but by 1881 it had been passed to Rockley Parish before returning to Bathurst in the 1930s. In 1879 Bishop Quinn called a meeting to discuss putting up a church and in due course a tin church was erected in the village.

In 1955 it was replaced by this attractive brick church. After several decades of faithful service, the church was closed. Less priests and more effective modes of transport had made it easier for parishioners to attend the Cathedral, though the church continued to witness occasional services.

Today this simple little church stands alone and silent, a witness to an earlier age when local community and church went hand in hand.

David Billington

St. Joseph’s PortlandIn the Swim

Our Lost Churches Bishop’s HouseMajor maintenance and renovation works have commenced at the Bishop’s House in Bathurst. Apart from some roofing and other minor repairs, no such work has been done on the property for over 30 years.The late Bishop Dougherty continued living in the House after his retirement, but it has been vacant since his death in 2010.Bishop McKenna sought advice from the Diocesan Finance Council and the Catholic Development Fund as to whether it would be more economically advisable to sell the property, or to restore it and use it. The weight of advice led him to decide that it was better to keep this valuable diocesan asset and invest in its improvement. The funding required will be a charge on the Diocese of Bathurst, not on the Cathedral Parish.The House is to be not only a residence for the Bishop, but a place where he can hold meetings and receptions and offer accommodation and hospitality for priests and others assisting in his work for the Diocese.


Around the world, the Church is under attack from atheistic regimes, militant Islam, sects and basic ignorance of the Faith. The international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) is able to counter these attacks by supplying Child’s Bibles to children and families who simply cannot afford them, in countries where the Church is poor or persecuted. Since its launch in 1979, ACN has printed and distributed 48 million copies of God Speaks to His Children in 167 languages. It is the Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s bible ever! This inspiring book can also teach the Faith here in Australia: with your family, godchildren, or in your parish or school. The Child’s Bible is a perfect gift for children, grandchildren, nephews and nieces, especially to mark a First Holy Communion. The

Bible complements the catechism and children’s rosary booklet also published by ACN and available via our website. Beautifully illustrated by Spanish nun, Miren Sorne, this delightful Child’s bible is available for a donation of $7.00.

Rosary from the Holy LandSimple in design and yet profound in its symbolic significance, the olivewood rosary, handmade in Bethlehem by Christian families struggling for survival, are also available for a donation of $7.00. All proceeds will go towards the work of Aid to the Church in Need for the poor and persecuted Church worldwide.

Child’s Bible - ‘God Speaks to His Children’The Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s Bible ever!

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Students from St. Joseph’s in Molong raised $306 by busking which they donated to their local Vinnies

Conference.Orange Regional President, Allen Murphy and President of the Holy Family Conference, Allen Johnston, said thank

you to the students at a School Assembly recently. Allen Murphy presented Certificates of Appreciation to Matthew Beuziville, Abby Crouch, Jacob Davis, Rebekeh Livermore, Thomas Livermore, Liam McLean and Llara Milne for their fundraising efforts last Christmas

Certificates were also presented to Benjamin Guimelli and Annalise Livermore at the James Sheahan Catholic High School – Year 7 assembly. These two students were part of the busking group, but now attend James Sheahan.

St. Joseph’s MolongFundraising for Vinnies

Allen Murphy, Barbara Howell (Principal) and Allen Johnston

Allen Murphy with Benjamin Guimelli and Annalise Livermore


December 2011 marked the fourth year the Wallerawang Saint Vincent de Paul

Conference has provided gifts for the residents of Bob McLoughlin’s Home in Wallerawang.

Students from La Salle Academy wrap the presents and write warm Christmas greetings in the cards for each resident.

A group consisting of students and staff from La Salle, Saint Vincent

de Paul Conference members and members from Lithgow and Portland parishes, delivered the gifts in person.

It was a wonderful afternoon with everyone enjoying opening their presents, singing and generally having a good time.

The residents are proud to show off their collection of photos covering the walls of the dining hall. The photos are from their holidays around Australia taken every second year. These trips

were made possible by the purchase of a full size coach which seats all residents and enables them to travel together to many wonderful locations.

Each year we are inspired by these amazing people who work hard to give the residents not just a roof over their heads, but a home full of family and friends. We look forward to more visits in 2012.

Lorna Nicholson

BATHURST CENTRAL COUNCIL - SOCIETY OF ST VINCENT DE PAUL27-31 McNamara Street Orange NSW 2800 Phone: 02 6362 2565 Fax: 02 6362 2830

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Helping people to help themselves by giving a “hand up” not a “hand out”. To make a donation to the Society, Visit your local St Vincent de Paul Centre or complete the following for cheque/money order/credit card donation

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Please make cheques payable to the Society of St Vincent de Paul and send to PO BOX 8317, ORANGE NSW 2800

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Bob’s Place

Servicing the people of Orange and District Community

“Offering helpful advice and care”

Proudly and Locally owned by John and Cath Murphy1 Cameron Place, Orange NSW 2800

Phone: 02 6360 1199 Fax: 02 6360 2999www.orangefuneral.com.au


The Wollar Reunion was held on 25th February 2012 in the Village of Wollar with a large number of former residents and their families present for the occasion. Folk began arriving

early, some even came the night before. Most of these people set up camp on common land adjacent to the Village Hall. By Saturday mid-day the Village was packed with cars, tents and motor homes crammed into every available space. The official proceedings began with a friendly church service held in St. Laurence’s Catholic Church and led by Father Garry McKeown, assisted by Reverend Max Wood from the Anglican Church. The day was full of mixed emotions. Everyone was happy to be there again, reminiscing as they strolled through the Village catching up with old friends. However deep down, for some there was sadness, knowing and seeing how much Wollar has declined since the mines had come there. The church service helped to lift everyone’s spirits, for even those who aren’t regular church goers enjoyed the service and found comfort in it. Afterwards, some lingered at the Church, whilst others made their way up to the school where they could wander through, looking at the old photographs and other items from earlier times.

Refreshment was provided by the Cooyal Bush Fire Brigade and by late afternoon most had gathered at the Hall to eat, and then remained chatting or wandered around making sure they had not missed greeting an old friend. Later, the entertainment began, led by Mick Fletch from Newcastle who has family associations with Wollar. Bruce and Ross Kurtz played all the old bush favourites, supported by their band, and Kevin Pye’s poem about the Wollar reunion was read. As the evening wore on and darkness descended, the dancing began, and people made merry well into the night. The Wollar reunion was a great success which was enjoyed by all.

Joy Hibberd

The Wollar Reunion

One special guest was Mr Leo Robinson, the eldest living past resident of the Catholic Wollar community (Leo turns 104 this year). Leo is pictured with his daughter Maree

Gilbert and Thelma Pilley at the service in St. Lawrence’s.

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