Friday, March 22 nd 2013 Established 1905 Georgetown, Guyana Forty Dollars ($40) Year 108, No. 11 222 South & Wellington Sts., Georgetown, Guyana Telephone: 226-2195 email: [email protected]Diocesan website: www.rcdiocesegy.org Our Easter Triduum is that very special time in which we solemnly celebrate the core mysteries of our Faith. I exhort all to participate in the celebrations prayerfully and with hearts open to these mysteries. It is a special time for our Elect as during these days they will make the final steps of their journey into full communion in the faith. As we accompany them in this Year of Faith may our own steps be ones of renewing our Baptism, our discipleship and our witness of those mysteries. Sunday 24th March 07:30 hrs Blessing of Palms at Cathedral and Procession to Bourda grounds fol- lowed by Mass at Bourda Tuesday 26th March 17:00 hrs Chrism Mass at Cathedral Thursday 28th March Beginning of Sacred Triduum 17:00 hrs Mass of the Lord's Supper Friday 29th March Good Friday 09:00 hrs Stations of the Cross at Cathedral 15:00 hrs Commemoration of the Lord's Passion Saturday 30th March 23:00 hrs Easter Vigil at Cathedral Sunday 31st March 17:00 hrs Solemn High Mass at Cathedral Francis Alleyne, OSB Bishop’s Engagements Holy Week Editorial: Frequency free-for-all - p2 Letters to the Editor - p2 Young leaders learn about empowerment - p3 Berbice Parishes in Pilgrimage to BPP- p3 Triduum & Easter Mass Schedule - p4 Catholic Magazine Programme Schedule- p4 Sunday Mass Readings - p5 Holy Week: A time set apart for Renewal - p5 Stewardship Reflection - p5 Children’s Page - p6 Family Page: Writing Little Notes & Letters- p7 The Life in the Spirit Seminars Part 2- p8 Viewpoint: The Youths - p9 The Servant of the Servants of God - p10 INSIDE VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis formally began his ministry as bishop of Rome and as pope by pledging to protect the Catholic Church, the dignity of each person and the beauty of creation. "To protect creation, to protect every man and every woman, to look upon them with tenderness and love is to open up a horizon of hope," he told between 150,000 and 200,000 people gathered under sunny skies in St. Peter's Square and the nearby streets. With representatives of other Christian churches and communities, delegations from 132 countries, Jewish and Muslim leaders as well as Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains present, Pope Francis preached the Gospel, but insisted the values it espouses are essentially human, "involving everyone." The rites and rituals of the inauguration of his ministry as pope took place immedi- ately before the Mass. The new pope stood at a lectern to read his homily, sticking to the text he had prepared in advance. He punctuated with clenched fists his remarks about the strength required to be tender and compassionate to others. "In the Gospels," he said, "St. Joseph appears as a strong and courageous man, a working man, yet in his (please turn to back page ) Pope Francis pledges to protect church, human dignity The East Coast Parishes took part in a Lenten Pilgrimage last Sunday March 17 th . The picture shows the procession of pilgrims arriving at St. Peter's church B/V. After the procession there was a period of devotions before the exposed Blessed Sacrament followed by group discussions. After lunch there was the presentation of reports from the six communities on the lower East Coast. A period of hymn sing- ing followed by Stations of the Cross. The day ended with Mass concelebrated by Msgr. Terrence Montrose, Fathers. Anil Tirkey, SJ and Tony De Souza SJ. The theme for the day was "Faith that unites us". East Coast Parishes Pilgrimage Easter Issue Next Week Next week, prior to going on an Easter break, the Catholic Standard will produce its Easter Issue. It will have 16 pages and you are asked to pay just $80 per copy. In striving to motivate our Catholic broth- ers and sisters to learn, live and spread the Word of God in everyday life, plans are moving ahead for a gathering of represen- tatives of parishes throughout the Diocese, together with the clergy, to be held from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th October at St. Paul’s Retreat Centre. Requested by our bishop, Francis Alleyne OSB, the Assembly will provide a forum for sharing understanding of the faith, high- lighting everyday challenges and planning the way forward. Guidelines for discus- sions on key topics in preparation for the Assembly have already been sent to parishes where it is expected that group sessions will be held. Diocesan Assembly for October
Transcript
Friday, March 22nd 2013 Established 1905 Georgetown, Guyana Forty Dollars ($40) Year 108, No. 11
Our Easter Triduum is that very special time in which we solemnly celebrate the core mysteries of our Faith. I exhort all to participate in the celebrations prayerfully and with hearts open to these mysteries. It is a special time for our Elect as during these days they will make the final steps of their journey into full communion in the faith. As we accompany them in this Year of Faith may our own steps be ones of renewing our Baptism, our discipleship and our witness of those mysteries. Sunday 24th March 07:30 hrs Blessing of Palms at Cathedral and Procession to Bourda grounds fol-lowed by Mass at Bourda Tuesday 26th March 17:00 hrs Chrism Mass at Cathedral Thursday 28th March Beginning of Sacred Triduum 17:00 hrs Mass of the Lord's Supper Friday 29th March Good Friday 09:00 hrs Stations of the Cross at Cathedral 15:00 hrs Commemoration of the Lord's Passion Saturday 30th March 23:00 hrs Easter Vigil at Cathedral Sunday 31st March 17:00 hrs Solemn High Mass at Cathedral
Francis Alleyne, OSB
Bishop’s Engagements
Holy Week
Editorial: Frequency free-for-all - p2
Letters to the Editor - p2
Young leaders learn about empowerment - p3
Berbice Parishes in Pilgrimage to BPP- p3
Triduum & Easter Mass Schedule - p4
Catholic Magazine Programme Schedule- p4
Sunday Mass Readings - p5
Holy Week: A time set apart for Renewal - p5
Stewardship Reflection - p5
Children’s Page - p6
Family Page: Writing Little Notes & Letters-p7
The Life in the Spirit Seminars Part 2- p8
Viewpoint: The Youths - p9
The Servant of the Servants of God - p10
INSIDE
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis formally began his ministry as bishop of Rome and as pope by pledging to protect the Catholic Church, the dignity of each person and the beauty of creation. "To protect creation, to protect every man and every woman, to look upon them with tenderness and love is to open up a horizon of hope," he told between 150,000 and 200,000 people gathered under sunny skies in St. Peter's Square and the nearby streets. With representatives of other Christian churches and communities, delegations from 132 countries, Jewish and Muslim leaders as well as Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs
and Jains present, Pope Francis preached the Gospel, but insisted the values it espouses are essentially human, "involving everyone." The rites and rituals of the inauguration of his ministry as pope took place immedi-ately before the Mass. The new pope stood at a lectern to read his homily, sticking to the text he had prepared in advance. He punctuated with clenched fists his remarks about the strength required to be tender and compassionate to others. "In the Gospels," he said, "St. Joseph appears as a strong and courageous man, a working man, yet in his (please turn to back page)
Pope Francis pledges to protect church, human dignity
The East Coast Parishes took part in a Lenten Pilgrimage last Sunday March 17th. The picture shows the procession of pilgrims arriving at St. Peter's church B/V. After the procession there was a period of devotions before the exposed Blessed Sacrament followed by group discussions. After lunch there was the presentation of
reports from the six communities on the lower East Coast. A period of hymn sing-ing followed by Stations of the Cross. The day ended with Mass concelebrated by Msgr. Terrence Montrose, Fathers. Anil Tirkey, SJ and Tony De Souza SJ. The theme for the day was "Faith that unites us".
East Coast Parishes Pilgrimage
Easter Issue Next Week Next week, prior to going on an Easter break, the Catholic Standard will produce its Easter Issue. It will have 16 pages and you are asked to pay just $80 per copy.
In striving to motivate our Catholic broth-ers and sisters to learn, live and spread the Word of God in everyday life, plans are moving ahead for a gathering of represen-tatives of parishes throughout the Diocese, together with the clergy, to be held from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th October at St. Paul’s Retreat Centre.
Requested by our bishop, Francis Alleyne OSB, the Assembly will provide a forum for sharing understanding of the faith, high-lighting everyday challenges and planning the way forward. Guidelines for discus-sions on key topics in preparation for the Assembly have already been sent to parishes where it is expected that group sessions will be held.
Diocesan Assembly for October
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013
Frequency free-for-all
Page 2
The recent revelations about the issuing of television and cable licenses is both scandal-ous and dangerous. Indeed it is significant that it was only after a question is asked in the National Assembly that the public gets this important informa-tion about a decision made over one year ago. Was there a fear in some quarters that the decision would have been frowned on even by supporters of the ruling party? However there is much that seems to be wrong with this frequency free-for-all even on the surface. The sheer number of frequencies granted at one time is simply far too many. The support, monitoring and other mechanisms needed to be in place for their proper and efficient functioning are just not there. More importantly, the nepotism, bias and favouritism running through the way in which the frequencies were allocated are crystal clear. The media are disseminators of particularly sensitive commodities namely information, ideas, opinions. The concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few staunch supporters of the ruling party is akin to almost complete state control over informa-tion, ideas and opinions in direct and indirect ways. This is a severe blow to political freedom in any country. Ownership has an impact on content and it has an impact on people's perception of the reality. In a de-mocratic society where people are expected to make fundamental, free, informed choices no one should have such excessive power. It is also not unlikely that given the econom-ics of scale here there could eventually be convergence of these outlets into one or two giant conglomerates putting them at a clearly unfair advantage. This is a propaganda giant waiting to emerge. If there is a feeling that certain papers and news organizations are biased now imagine what would happen when they are under one roof. The allocation also raises questions about why this was done as one of the final acts of largesse of the outgoing President. In a country as small as Guyana no person or entity should be allowed to operate more than one channel and steps should be taken to ensure that even at this stage some princi-ple of fairness and equivalency must be applied. A political party giving itself and its supporters a number of television channels is creating a dangerously uneven playing field. The Catholic Church has said much about the proper use of the social communications media. (please turn to page 9)
EDITORIAL Dear Editor, When our Bishop Francis was conse-crated as our bishop a little over nine years ago, I wrote an article in the Catholic Standard which had the headline "From Bishop Benedict to Benedictine Bishop", pointing out that our Bishop emeritus Benedict Singh was succeeded by Benedictine Bishop, Francis Dean Alleyne, OSB. Over the past eight years, I have said from time to time, that had Bishop Singh not retired at that time, but was our bishop for a few more years, then we would have had the distinction of having both our Holy Father and our Bishop with the same name; Benedict. When our new Pope was announced I jumped for joy, not necessarily because my first name is Francis, but because what Guyana missed out on eight years
ago, with having both a serving Pope and a serving Bishop with the same name, has now happened; Pope Francis as well as Bishop Francis. So for the unforsee-able future, we will pray at Mass for "Francis our Pope" as well as for "Francis our Bishop". My good friend and Church historian Francis Canzius is most likely as excited as myself to have the 266th Pope adopt the name Francis. There are other things about this new Holy Father which we need to bear in mind; he is from our continent - South America. He is an environmentalist. And probably most surprising, he is a Jesuit - a member of the Society of Jesus; a Priestly Order which was supposedly never to have one of their members become Pope.
Francis Farrier
New Pope, Bishop share the Same Name
Dear Editor, On March 24th 2013, El Salvador will commemorate the 33rd anniversary of the assassination of Archbishop Oscar Romero who was killed during the armed conflict in that county while celebrating Mass. In recognition of the anniversary of Archbishop Romero’s martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI in 2007 declared March 24th to be a day of fast-ing and prayer for all missionaries who have given their lives for the faith. Pope Francis, who was elected during this anniversary month, was a young 44 year-old priest, serving as the rector of Colegio Maximo and as a theology teacher at the time of Archbishop Romero’s assassination. Archbishop Romero was appointed as Archbishop of El Salvador in 1977, and was seen as a ‘safe’ option, as he was seen as someone who would maintain the status quo. However, this changed within weeks of his appointment with the murder of Father Rutilio Grande, a close friend and a “fine priest” in Aguilares on March 12th of that year. Pope Francis, who has previously distanced himself from the philosophy of Liberation Theology may also be viewed as a ‘safe’ Latin American option. His Italian heritage may have also been a factor among the 61 European cardinals who voted in the recently concluded conclave. Like Archbishop Romero, Pope Francis has a profound enthusiasm for the less fortunate. His decision to be called Francis, and the many examples from his own life, as seen on television over the
past few days, boldly demonstrates his affection and empathy. Archbishop Romero defended the “preferential option for the poor”, meaning that the poor should always be considered in decisions of policy making and the like. In one of his homilies he said that “the mission of the Church is to identify itself with the poor” this he said is the way in which the church will find its own salvation. Card. Bergoglio by his life, and more recently as Pope, demon-strates his Romeroian affinity to “identifying…with the poor”, both verbally and through his many gestures. It is probably this identification with the poor, among many other similarities with Archbishop Romero, which prompted then Card. Bergoglio, who was quoted by an article in El Salvador’s La Prensa Gráfica newspaper in 2007 as saying, that “If I had been pope, the very first thing I would have done is order the beatification of Monsignor Romero.” This statement was reportedly made to Msgr. Jesus Delogado of the Romero Foundation, after he finished second in the conclave that elected Card. Joseph Ratzinger. As the world looks forward with great anticipation towards the stewardship of Pope Francis, and many are hoping his tenure will be a transformative one, we pray that the example of Archbishop Romero and the light of the Holy Spirit guides his steps in the service of the poor, both in body and spirit. In his final sermon just minutes before his death, Archbishop Romero reminded us of the (please turn to page 9)
Will Pope Francis follow in the path of Archbishop Oscar Romero?
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 3
The Seminar held at the Arthur Lok Graduate School of Business, University of the West Indies-Guyana, under the theme “Empowering a Generation of Young Leaders” was a whole-‐somely refreshing experience last Saturday evening, March 16. It was attended by some twenty persons within youth ministries from the parishes of Georgetown, along with Fr. Justin Prabhu sj and Fr. Cristavo Primo sj. Renowned inspirational writer, Dr. Jules Ferdinand, of St. Vincent and lecturer in Strategy and Innovation at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, UWI-Guyana, enthused his audience with various facets of Communication in Leadership. Applying personal experiences the audience could relate to and the need to change bad habits in our communication which often break down the level of our leadership roles. Ms. Abigail Primo, Roteract Past President and International MBA Student and Global Young Leader Ambassador of the host University brought forth her extensive leadership experience to present the foundation and synergies of leadership. Her presen-tation highlighted thoughts of several leadership gurus and covered a wide platform of characteristics required in young leaders. Professionalism, not the usual clichéd topic, was a thought-provoking and captivating presentation done by Ms. Samanthani Singh. As Chartered Business Administrator and Administration
of the host University, her presentation captured the meaning, code of ethics and reason for professionalism in leadership. Her presentation touched on Personal Identity and Project Manage-ment as drivers in young leaders. The successful seminar organized by Catholic Television and coordinated by Samanthani Singh concluded at 8:00p.m. with feedback and refreshments. The participants requested more seminars of such nature in the future and Catholic Television will be organising similar information and educational workshops and seminars in the year ahead.
Young leaders learn about empowerment
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From Leon Suseran Catholics from across the East Berbice parishes made their annual pilgrimage to Holy Name Roman Catholic Church at Mibikuri, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne last Sunday. The pilgrims from New Am-sterdam, Port Mourant, Black Bush and Springlands - which had the largest con-tingent - moved along the Mibikuri Public Road. They sang hymns, recited prayers, re- enacted the Stations of the Cross and recited the Rosary as they journeyed along. The pilgrims braved the hot morning sun although some had umbrellas. They carried a huge wooden cross, some also had banners with slogans pertaining to the Year of Faith. They reached the church for a mid- morning Mass which was con-celebrated by Fathers Joachim de Mello, K. J. Jose and Mohan Joseph. After a lovely Eucharistic celebration some of the pilgrims shared in a lunch provided by the Mibikuri community, while others opted to partake in their picnic baskets which they brought with them from their respective parishes. Special mention must be made of Springland’s Sts. Joachim and Anne parish. They arrived in an estate truck which was jam-packed with pilgrims. They had the largest continent and were well- prepared with their banners and placards. Their exuberance was noted by all and special thanks must be given to them. Being a small parish community way up the Corentyne, sometimes it is easy to
forget that they exist, but they do and were especially prominent last Sunday as the stars — so to speak — of the Annual Black Bush Lenten Pilgrimage. The choir from the Church of the Ascen-sion must be given special praise for their excellent singing. The Black Bush Holy Name community also deserves kudos for the excellent planning and coordination of the activity.
It shows that activities of this magnitude are not only possible in Georgetown par-ishes. Berbice Catholics have demon-strated their commitment and brother-hood during this sacred time of Lent by truly witnessing for Jesus, doing penance by walking in the hot sun for a long dis-tance and spending an entire day with each other and the Lord in the far - flung farming community of Black Bush Polder.
Berbice parishes in pilgrim journey to Black Bush Polder
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 4
NOTE: * Cathedral: Tuesday, March 26: Chrism Mass - 05:00 p.m ; Easter Sunday, March 31: Pontifical High Mass - 5:00 p.m. ** SS Peter & Paul, St. Joseph, Kaunterbally and Kuru Kururu will be part of the Meadow Bank celebration of Holy Thursday and
Easter Vigil and Mass *** St. Jerome will be part of the Meadow Bank celebration of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Vigil and Mass
Place Holy Thursday March 28
Good Friday March 29
March 30
March 31
Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Stations of the Cross
Service Easter Vigil Mass
Mass of the Resurrection
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - Brickdam * 05:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m.
Triduum and Easter 2013 Schedule of Masses/Services for the Pastoral Area
Title TV Stations Date Time
Palm Sunday
NCN Channel 11 Monday, March 25 7.30pm
DTV (New Amsterdam) Sunday, March 24 6.00pm
RCA Channel 8 (Charity) Sunday, March 24 7.30pm
TTS Channel 5 (Bartica) Wed., March 20 5.30pm
BTV Channel 2 Sunday, March 24 6.00pm
Stations of the Cross
NCN Channel 11 Friday, March 29 9.00pm
TTS Channel 5 (Bartica) Wed., March 27 5.30pm
RCA Channel 8(Charity) Friday, March 29 6:00pm
NCN Channel 11 Sunday, March 31 2.00pm Easter Sunday DTV (New Amsterdam) Sunday, March 31 6.00pm
RCA Channel 8(Charity ) Sunday, March 31 7.30pm
BTV Channel 2 Sunday, March 31 6.00pm
TTS Channel 5 (Bartica) Wed., April 3 5.30pm
Catholic Magazine Programme Schedule
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 5
[From: http://www.thecatholicsteward.com ]
This Palm Sunday represents one of the great liturgical dichotomies. We begin the liturgy with a procession of celebration,
and we continue to the reading of the Pas-sion, which reaches its zenith with the Lord calling out, “ ‘Father, into your hands I commend my spirit’; and when he had said this he breathed his last.” It is as if we move from joy and celebration to utter defeat and emptiness. However, that is the essence of our entire Lenten journey, and our beginning of Holy Week, which is today. One of the important aspects of our sense of stewardship is gaining an un-derstanding of our Faith, some of the de-tails relating to what we do and why we do it. The steward understands that she/he travels with the Lord every step of the way, from the highs to the lows, from triumph to evident disaster. Like Peter,
nonetheless, we may become reluctant. What are we really following and what are we really believing and practicing? We may proclaim Jesus as our Lord and Sav-ior. Throughout Lent we have been striv-ing to deepen our relationship with Him. Nevertheless, when it comes right down to it, we may resist His invitation to us because it can mean pain, sacrifice, and suffering. That is why we must experience Lent. That is why we must experience His Passion. And that is why next week on Easter Sunday we will arise with the Lord in triumph, joy, and celebration. Truly, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”
By: The Diocesan Stewardship Council of Guyana
Visit us on Facebook
http://tinyurl.com/guyanastewardship
FIRST READING Isaiah 50:4-7
I did not cover my face against insult - I know I shall not be shamed.
The Lord has given me a disciples tongue. So that I may know how to reply to the wearied he provides me with speech. Each morning he wakes me to hear, to listen like a disciple. The Lord has opened my ear. For my part, I made no resistance, neither did I turn away. I offered my back to those who struck me, my cheeks to those who tore at my beard; I did not cover my face against insult and spittle. The Lord comes to my help, so that I am untouched by the insults. So, too, I set my face like flint; I know I shall not be shamed. RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 21
Response: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? 1. All who see me deride me. They curl their lips, they toss their heads. “He trusted in the Lord, let him save him; let him release him if this is his friend.” R/ 2. Many dogs have surrounded me, a band of the wicked beset me. They tear holes in my hands and my feet I can count every one of my bones. R/ 3. They divide my clothing among them. They cast lots for my robe. O Lord, do not leave me alone, my strength, make haste to help me! R/ 4. I will tell of your name to my brethren and praise you where they are assembled. “You who fear the Lord give him praise; all sons of Jacob, give him glory. Revere him, Israel’s children.” R/
SECOND READING Philippians 2:6-11
He humbled himself, but God raised him high.
His state was divine, yet Christ Jesus did not cling to his equality with God but emptied himself to assume the condition of a slave, and became as men are, and being as all men are, he was humbler yet, even to accepting death, death on a cross. But God raised him high and gave him the name which is above all other names so that all beings in the heavens, on earth and in the under-world, should bend the knee at the name of Jesus and that every tongue should acclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, to the glory of God the Father. GOSPEL Luke 22: 14-23, 56 The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke.
‘Jesus breathed his last.’ Matthew 50:27 Good News Bible
A Time set apart for Renewal Holy Week (March 24 - March 31 2013) is a time that is set apart in our Church’s liturgical year for our spiritual renewal. In fact, the word holy refers to anything that is set apart for God’s purposes. Holy Week is holy precisely because it is time that is set apart for us to focus on how we are spiritually renewed through the suf-fering, death, and Resurrection of Jesus. The Symbols of Holy Week The liturgies of Holy Week are filled with some of the richest and most ancient symbols of the Catholic faith. The waving of palms on Passion (Palm) Sunday reminds us that we are called to be followers of Jesus, not just fans who cheer from a distance. The washing of feet on Holy Thursday speaks to us of the selfless love that we are called to practice in imitation of Jesus. The veneration of the cross on Good Friday reminds us that, as Christians, we believe that Jesus can overcome anything, even death. The lighting of the Easter fire in a darkened church and the celebration of baptisms on Holy Saturday speak to us of the new life that is ours because of Jesus’ triumph over the darkness of sin and death through his resurrection. [From: http://www.loyolapress.com/holy-week-a-
time-apart-for-renewal.htm ]
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 6
[Sources: http://www.sdc.me.uk , http://www.sermons4kids.com & Catholic Standard March 30 2012 ]
Dear Boys and Girls,
Today the Church celebrates the kingship of Jesus with the observance of Palm (Passion) Sunday, the start of Holy Week.
We remember that happy day when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and the people welcomed him by waving palm branches; others spread their coats on the ground. They praised him: “Hossanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”
Jesus is indeed a special person. He is a king. However, in the midst of that joyous celebra-tion, Jesus knew he had enemies and that he would be crucified on Good Friday.
Today blessed palm branches are distributed in churches in memory of the love shown to Jesus.
Please hang your palms in a special place in your room to remind you that Christ is your king.
Sing Hosanna!
Children’s Page
Join Jesus on the road to Jerusalem.
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013
In the early years of our marriage, on one of our Marriage Encounter Weekends, we learnt how writing little notes and letters to each other occasionally could help to enhance our communication, and enrich our relationship. Since then we have been putting our thoughts and feelings in little notes and giving it to each other. Sometimes we just hand it over in the privacy of our room and other times we place it in a conspicuous spot for the other to discover. Now, after all these years we still eagerly look forward to finding a "love note" at least once a week.
We have also tried it with our children with positive results. They are all grown up now but we still all look forward to receiving e-mail and blackberry messages from each other.
We have found that one of the best ways of parents communicating with their chil-dren, apart from directly talking with them, is to write a little note or letter.
Children have a difficult time with their friends or at school, they go away on summer camps, they develop Behaviour or emotional problems, and they need to know that we care about them. and we love them.
Parents, if you take the time to put your loving thoughts down on paper and give these little notes to your sons and daugh-ters, it can make a huge difference in the welfare of your children.
Before we go on, let us say that negative thoughts and feelings should not be writ-ten down. If you have a problem, or an argument, with your child, use calm words to explain your feelings. On no occasion should you write negative stuff down, this may tend to widen the rift between you.
Begin your writings by putting loving notes in lunch kits for school age chil-dren. Then continue writing to them even as they grow older. You will find
that your family life will be greatly enriched by these little acts of caring.
Notes can also praise accomplish-ments. Some examples of these could be - ‘Thanks for helping your little sister to dress this morning’ - ‘I’m proud of the way you cleaned up your room’ - ‘I love the way you helped grandma with the cooking.’
Notes can also be about personal caring - ‘I love the way your eyes sparkle when you smile’ - ‘You look so handsome in your blue jersey’ - ‘Your new haircut makes you look more beautiful.’
We have heard from another couple who have made letter writing an important part of their parenting. They tell us that their children’s school grades have im-‐proved, behaviour has also taken a turn for the better, they get more cooperation with the household chores, and good feelings radiate in the home.
We are told that these loving notes from mom and dad are saved for a very long time. They are placed inside books, in dresser draws and under bed pil-lows. The parents tell us that they read these loving notes over and over again, and when they read them while their chil-dren are at school, or at camps, they feel the close loving presence of their children although they are far away. That’s good parenting.
They tell us that their eldest son is now married and no longer living in their home. But they still send and receive little love notes via e-mail, although they live nearby and they see each other regu-larly every week. It is so much fun to check on their mail to see if there is a letter.
Do you, the parent or grandparent, have any notes that came from your par-ents? Did they ever write to you? If they did not, do you now wish that they did?
We believe that these ideas can help fam-ily life. Hugs, kisses, smiles, a pat on the shoulder, kind words and notes help to enrich and keep love in a family. And it is this family love that keeps us all closer to Our Lord.
Writing Little Notes and Letters
Mind Puzzler Corner Our last Brain Teaser was: I am a 5 letter word. You eat me. If you remove my 1st letter, I be-come a crime. If you remove my 1st 2 letters, I be-come an animal. If you remove my 1st and last letter, I become a form of music. What am I???
The answer is: Grape
Now here’s this week’s Brain Teaser:
Hit me hard and I will crack but you'll never stop me from staring back. What am I? Look for the answer next week.
Page 7
This Week’s Reflection:
Palm Sunday’s Gospel is a rather long one. We hear a story that begins with triumph that soon turns to pain, suffering and death. We come face to face with the cross, and on that cross we see suffering and death. Jesus willingly and knowingly accepts suffering as part of his mission on earth. He is merciful and forgiving even to those who executed him. He gives us a reason for hope and peace in a world that can be harsh and lonely. God Bless You! Have a Great Week! This Week’s Bible Question: Q. How did Jesus say we should conduct ourselves when we fast?
This Week’s Teaser: Q: Why did the Pope cross the road?
Answer to Bible Question: Act as if you were not fasting - See Mat-thew 6: 16-18
And when you fast, do not put on a sad face as the hypocrites do. They neglect their appearance so that everyone will see that they are fasting. I assure you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, wash your face and comb your hair, so that others cannot know that you are fasting, but only your Father who is un-seen will know; and your Father who sees what you do in private will reward you.
Today’s Bible Verse: Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. - Rom 10: 17
Humour: While looking through a magazine mom showed Little Johnny a picture of Kaieteur Falls and told him that she had once been there. "Was I there with you?" asked Johnny. "Yes" mom replied "You were kind of there. You were in my tummy." "Mom, could we go back please" pleaded Johnny "Because I couldn’t see."
A Card Hallmark Would Never Print:
I’m not saying you’re stupid - I’m just say-‐ing you’re bad luck when it comes to thinking. Answer to Teaser: He crosses everything.
Spiritual Titbits
By Chris & Noelma Lam
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CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 8
By Kent N. Vincent, Coordinator CCR with Extracts taken from the Life in the Spirit Seminars Leaders Manual) What is the “Greater Outpouring” of the Holy Spirit? This for Catholics can simply mean a “release” of the charismatic gifts of the Holy Spirit (1Cor. 12: 4-11) already present in us by way of the Sacraments of Bap-tism, Eucharist and Confirmation. Many experience great joy, a new capacity and desire to read the Bible, and a new, renewed or deeper prayer life. For many it is a life changing experience. Questions and Answers Q: I have heard that what the Catholic Charismatic Renewal does is not Catholic. Is this true? A: Nothing could be further from the truth than this statement. Members of CCR have a deep love for the Church, the Mass, the Sacraments, the Bible, Our Lady
and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and constantly promote these. Members follow the teachings of the Church, the Pope and the Magisterium and are com-mitted to working with our Bishop and priests in carrying out the mission of the Church. Although labelled “charismatic” most CCR members are traditional at heart. Q: Are these Seminars Catholic and who prepared them? A:The Life in the Spirit Seminars are fully Catholic having been prepared by Sr. Myriam Duggan O.S.F and Fr. Jim Bermingham S.P.S via the International Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office (ICCRO) in Vatican City Rome. The fore-word was written by Fr. Robert Faricy S.J. Q: What is a Catholic Charismatic Prayer Meeting? A: A CCR prayer meeting is where a group of members gather to praise God, sing,
pray, and share testimonies and the Word of God in an informal setting. There are at times use of the charismatic gifts. Q: Do I have to raise my hands, clap or dance? A: No one is required to do those things although some express their joy in these ways. Q: Am I required to pray in “tongues”? A: No one is required to pray in “tongues”. However the Holy Spirit does give this gift to some as He wills. Q. When do these Seminars begin and who do I contact? A: The Life in the Spirit Seminars commence at the St. Pius X Church on Wednesday April 3, 2013 at 6.30pm and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Concep-tion, Brickdam on Monday April 8, 2013 at 6.pm. You can contact any leader of the prayer groups. You are very welcome!
The Life in the Spirit Seminars (part 2)
Catholic Magazine produces a new DVD on Holy Week 2013
This new DVD is a collection of Holy Week talks brought to you by Catho-lic Television in Georgetown, Guy-ana. Holy week is a profound time of confronting our weaknesses out of love for Jesus. It is a time that we are invited to partake in Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection. In view of assisting the Catholics pray and re-flect on the Holy Week, we bring you a collection of 8 short talks. They cover Palm Sunday, Easter Triduum, Maundy Thursday, Holy Friday and Easter Proclamation. The themes are: 1. Easter Triduum: Fr Tim Curtis SJ 2. A thought on Holy Week: Fr Anil
“Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s long-‐ing for itself. They come through you but not from you, and thought they are with you yet they belong not to you. You may give them your love but not your thoughts, for they have their own thoughts. You may house their bodies but not their souls, for their souls dwell in the house of tomor-row, which you cannot visit, not even your dreams. You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday. You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth. The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and he bend you with his might that his arrows may go swift and far. Let your bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness; for even as he loves the arrow that flies, so he loves also the bow that is stable.” So wrote Khalil Gibran on the subject of Children. In Guyana, as is the situation in many countries there are serious concerns about the values and attitudes of young people who with the passing of time will be the leaders of the future. Sociologists have examined some of the fundamental factors which include the environmental influences as well as defi-ciencies in terms of relationships in the home. Hence the perceived roles of par-ents as well as their attitudes, interactions and expectations must be taken into ac-count. The complex issue of the fears frustra-tions, hopes and aspirations of young peo-ple and their sometimes unrecognized cries for love and understanding, certainly demand objective analysis. In Guyana, it is recognized that parents generally strive to do their best for their children. The aim to secure a better edu-cation and a better way of life for their children and are prepared to make the necessary sacrifices. In that process they set goals and as parents, they have their expectations. They would expect love, loyalty, appreciation and intelligent deci-sions. In that scenario lies potential heart-breaks and hurt. Typical problems include the choice of a spouse which may provoke division. Breaking away from the family tradition may rupture what was once a harmonious family relationship.
The question thus arises as to-how can the conflict situations be minimized? Experience has shown that selfless sacri-fice alone is not enough. Parents have to also share with children in a manner which gives their children self esteem and develop and strengthen a relationship built on mutual respect. The cultivated values of children must embrace love and be strengthened with religious values to withstand the onslaught of the times. The pressures of young people sometimes unwittingly in the home environment and especially the external influences can be severe. The result is sometimes escapism. This is manifested in forms of abandon-ment, over-reacting, consciously being controversial and provocative in a pro-gramme of self destruction. This is evidenced in the use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, teenage pregnancy and sadly even to cases of suicide. In many parts of our country there are limited, if any, facilities for gainful occupa-tion of young people. The medium of tele-vision with its negative influences create further problems. The challenges today is great for parents, guardians, religious bodies, social workers and the Government in dealing with and developing the Youths. Responsible parenting would certainly contribute positively to the situation. Children must be encouraged at an early age to make logical decisions. Even when the decision may be considered wrong, the love and understanding of parents must always be steadfast. There must be respect for dissenting views. Growing up – childhood to adolescent is an evolving process and the anchor is the parents” love. The ability to communicate and discuss issues is important. But in this delicate balance the children need also to avoid certain pitfalls. There is the ten-dency to believe that by virtue of a better academic attainment, they are now supe-rior to parents and can do without their advice or counseling much more criticism. This attitude is to be condemned, as the child’s achievement is also a reflection of the vision and wisdom of parents’ love. The ability to communicate and discuss issues is important. But in this delicate balance the children need also to avoid certain pitfalls. There is the tendency to believe that by virtue of a better academic attainment, they are now superior to par-ents and can do without their advice or counseling much more criticism. This atti-tude is to be condemned, as the child’s achievement is also a reflection of the vision and wisdom of parents. There is great knowledge and a lot of un-derstanding which come from the school of life which may not be explained in equations or read in text books.
The children of today in discussing prob-lems with parents need to be reminded that they will be the parents of tomorrow. Whatever the changes in science and technology the parental concerns will ba-sically remain the same. Writing on Youth, Joel Hawes an American Clergy contended: “Every period of life has its peculiar temp-‐tations and dangers. But youth is the time when we are the most likely to be en-snared. This, pre-eminently, is the form-ing, fixing period, the spring season of disposition and habit; and it is during this season, more than any other, that the character assumes its permanent shape and colour, and the young are wont to take their course for time and for eternity.” Today even more so, there is need for positive approaches to give our youths and our country hope for tomorrow. We need to listen to their cries of frustration and greater expectation and to positively motivate and stimulate them to face the future.
THE YOUTHS Viewpoint
by Vibert Parvatan
parable of the wheat, he said that “Those who surrender to the ser-‐vice of the poor through love of Christ, will live like the grains of wheat that dies. It only apparently dies. If it were not to die, it would remain a solitary grain.” May we all follow the example of Archbishop Romero and Pope Francis so that our church will produce a bountiful harvest through service to the poor.
Serafin Gonsalves
Letters · Letters · Letters
In Memoriam
In loving and cherished memory of our beloved mother
Winifred Ernestine France who passed away on March 22,
2012. The Lord is my Shepherd, I’ll not want He makes me down to lie In pastures green he leadeth me The quiet waters by. Prayerfully missed by her children, grandchildren, son-in-law, brother, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Sleep on Mom sleep on.
PALM SUNDAY Following the processions from the parishes to the Georgetown Cricket Club Ground, Bourda, the Palm Sunday celebration for the Pastoral Area will begin at 9:00 am on Sunday March 24th. For those who are unable to attend the morning observances, Mass will be cele-brated at 5:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam.
In the USA in the past decade it was one of many strong voices against several moves by the FCC to loosen rules in virtually all areas of media ownership which would create even bigger media empires. Our regulations for allocating frequencies were not followed. Worse still the questionable grant-ing of these cable and television licenses has the potential to become yet another highly-charged issue adding to the growing number of simmer-ing pockets of discontent all around the country. We urge the authorities to revoke them.
Frequency free-for-all (From Page 2)
CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, March 22nd, 2013 Page 10
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heart we see great tenderness, which is not the virtue of the weak, but rather a sign of strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for genuine openness to others, for love." "We must not be afraid of goodness, of tender-ness," Pope Francis said. St. Joseph responded to his call to be a protector "by being constantly attentive to God, open to the signs of God's pres-ence and receptive to God's plans, and not simply his own," the pope said. Fidelity to God's word and God's plan for individuals and for all of creation makes the difference, he said, calling on every-one to be sensitive and loving toward those in their care, especially toward children, the aged, the poor and the sick. "In the end, everything has been en-trusted to our protection, and all of us are responsible for it," he said. "Be protectors of God's gifts." When people fail to respect creation, when they ignore "God's plan inscribed in nature," or when they treat each other with disrespect, he said, "the way is opened to destruction, and hearts are hardened." "Tragically, in every period of history there are 'Herods' who plot death, wreak havoc and mar the counte-nance of men and women," he said. Pope Francis asked the government lead-ers present and all those with responsi-bility in the field of economics, politics and social life to stand firm when destruction and death threaten human dignity, human life and the environment. He met with the heads of the govern-ment delegations after the Mass.
Pope Francis... (From Front Page)
By Mike James The list of the official titles of the Pope runs as follows: “Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City...” The official list ends with this final title “Servant of the Servants of God”. All of the People of God, Catholics, Christians, all believers are the “Servants of God”. In addition to all the lofty things that he is, The Pope is officially, “The Servant of all those who Serve God.” An Archbishop of the Antilles Episcopal Conference once asked a congregation, “Do you think of the Pope as a servant?” Both the congregation and the Archbishop himself had to agree that “Servant” was not the first term that came to mind when they thought of main role of the Pope. Pope Francis, in the short week since his election, has given to the Church and to the world quite a special, even stunning and shocking example, in word and in deed of what it can mean to be the “Servant of Servants.” It began with his Choice of Francis as his Papal Name, the saint of poverty, real poverty, simplicity, service, peace, love of nature, the rich young man who left every-thing behind to follow and serve Christ in others; the saint who walked, defence-lessly through a Crusade in 1219 to hum-bly seek peace with the Muslim Sultan of Egypt; the saint who inspired a movement with thousands of priests, religious and lay people but who declined to be ordained a priest himself because he felt unworthy of that high office. In his very first public act after his election, Pope Francis stunned Rome and the world by first asking the assembled tens of
thousands in St. Peter’s Square to pray from him and bless him, before he gave them his Papal Blessing. The Cardinal who stooped to kiss the Papal ring was shocked to have his own hand and ring kissed in turn by Pope Francis. The receptionist at the Jesuit Headquarters was dumbfounded when two days after the Papal election a person called the switchboard, “This is Pope Francis, may I speak to Fr. General?” When it was estab-‐lished that this was not a hoax call and the consternation had subsided the call was put through. One of Pope’s Francis’s requests to the Jesuit Superior was "We shall meet as soon as we can. I will phone you and we can fix a date." This indeed is a Pope who, consistent with his previous lifestyle of using public transport in Buenos Aires, living simply, and close to the poor, paid his own hotel bill after his papal election, and boarded the bus with the other cardinals to go the post election celebratory supper. He is taking very seriously that Papal Title. Should we be amazed, shocked? Only as we are amazed that the all powerful and all loving God whom he serves, chose to send his own Son as a servant to humanity to lead us by service, love, peace and humil-ity. And if Pope Francis can take so seriously this title of Servant of the Servants of God, what then of us who are merely Servants of God?
The Servant of the Servants of God
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