RADIO VATICANA REPORT/IMAGE: The Congregation for the
Doctrine of the Faith issued a Note today offering practical suggestions for
making the most of the upcoming Year of Faith.
The Note contains more than 3 dozen concrete proposals on all levels of the life of the Church, from the Universal, to the Bishops’ Conferences, to individual Dioceses, and within these, to Communities, Associations and Movements, involving initiatives aimed at fostering Christian unity, to faith formation and renewal, and especially evangelization.
Fr. Hermann Geissler is responsible for the Doctrinal Office at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
He says the purpose of the Note is threefold: the first is to help the faithful to rediscover the nucleus of the faith, the foundation of the faith, which is the personal encounter with Christ, the personal encounter with the Lord who loves us, sustains us, forgives us, encourages us and shows us a great future… The second is that of helping the faithful to rediscover the meaning, and the documents of the II Vatican Council. “Many people talk about Vatican II,” says Fr. Geissler, “but when we really begin to get into it, we discover that only a very few people are really familiar with the texts of this great and most recent Council.” Finally, the note has the purpose of helping the faithful throughout the whole year to rediscover the integrity of the faith in all its beauty. “For this,” says Fr. Greissler, “the Catechism of the Catholic Church can be of great help to us.”
In fact, the 20th anniversary of the completion of the Catechism and the 50th anniversary of the opening of the II Vatican Council are focal points of the Year of Faith, which begins a half-century to the day from the Council’s opening. Following the Holy Father’s Apostolic Letter Porta fidei with which he proclaimed the Year of Faith, the Note recalls that the Catechism is an authentic fruit of the Council and an integral part of the “renewal in continuity” with the Church’s ancient and changeless Tradition of which the Conciliar documents are a most authoritative expression.
The Note expresses the hopeful intention of making the Year of Faith a propitious occasion to make the II Vatican Council and the Catechism of the Catholic Church more widely and more deeply known.
http://www.radiovaticana.org/en1/Articolo.asp?c=552703
BENEDICT XVI NAMES TWENTY-TWO NEW CARDINALS
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - "It is with great joy that I announce my intention to hold a concistory on 18 February, in which I will appoint twenty-two new members of the College of Cardinals". With these words, addressed to faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray the Angelus, Benedict XVI today announced the fourth consistory of his pontificate.
"As is well known", he explained, "cardinals have the task of helping Peter's Successor carry out his mission to confirm people in the faith and to be the source and foundation of the Church's unity and communion". The new cardinals "come from various parts of the world and perform various ministries in the service of the Holy See, in direct contact with the faithful as fathers and pastors of particular Churches".
Eighteen of the new cardinals, being under the age of eighty, will be electors. Their names are:
- Archbishop Fernando Filoni, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples.
- Archbishop Manuel Monteiro de Castro, penitentiary major.
- Archbishop Santos Abril y Castello, archpriest of the papal basilica of St. Mary Major.
- Archbishop Antonio Maria Veglio, president of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant Peoples.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Bertello, president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and of the Governorate of Vatican City State.
- Archbishop Francesco Coccopalmerio, president of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts.
- Archbishop Joao Braz de Aviz, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
- Archbishop Edwin Frederick O'Brien, pro-grand master of the Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
- Archbishop Domenico Calcagno, president of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Versaldi, president of the Prefecture for the Economic Affairs of the Holy See.
- Major Archbishop George Alencherry of Ernakulam-Angamaly of the Syro-Malabars, India.
- Archbishop Thomas Christopher Collins of Toronto, Canada.
- Archbishop Dominik Jaroslav Duka, O.P. of Prague, Czech Republic.
- Archbishop Willem Jacobus Eijk of Utrecht, Holland.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Betori of Florence, Italy.
- Archbishop Timothy Michael Dolan of New York, U.S.A.
- Archbishop Rainer Maria Woelki of Berlin, Germany.
- Bishop John Tong Hon of Hong Kong, China.
The Holy Father also pronounced the names of four new cardinals who, being over the age of eighty, are ineligible to vote in a future conclave. "I have", the Pope said, "decided to elevate to the dignity of cardinal a venerable prelate who serves as pastor and father of a Church, and three worthy priests who have distinguished themselves for their dedication and service". They are:
- Major Archbishop Lucian Muresan of Fagaras and Alba Julia of the Romanians, Romania.
- Fr. Julien Ries, priest of the diocese of Namur and professor emeritus of religious history at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.
- Fr. Prosper Grech, O.S.A., professor emeritus of several Roman universities and consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
- Fr. Karl Josef Becker, S.J., professor emeritus of the Pontifical Gregorian University and for many years consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
In closing the Pope invited the faithful to pray for the new cardinals, "asking the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, to intercede that they may always bear courageous and dedicated witness of their love for Christ and His Church".
ANG/ VIS 20120107 (580)
BISHOPS MUST SHOW MERCY AND CHARITY TO THE POOR
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - In the Vatican Basilica at 10 a.m. today, the Pope presided at Mass for the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. During the ceremony he conferred episcopal ordination upon archbishops-elect Msgr. Charles John Brown, apostolic nuncio to Ireland, and Msgr. Marek Solczynski, apostolic nuncio to Georgia and Armenia. The Mass was concelebrated by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B.; Cardinal William Joseph Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the two new archbishops.
In his homily the Holy Father reflected on today's Gospel reading, the narrative of the Magi who came from the East to Bethlehem to adore the Baby Jesus, which he compared with the mission of bishops in the Church.
"The wise men from the East ... open up the path of the gentiles to Christ. During this holy Mass, I will ordain two priests to the episcopate, I will consecrate them as shepherds of God's people. According to the words of Jesus, part of a shepherd's task is to go ahead of the flock. So, allowing for all the differences in vocation and mission, we may well look to these figures, the first gentiles to find the pathway to Christ, for indications concerning the task of bishops".
The Magi "were, as we might say, men of science, but not simply in the sense that they were searching for a wide range of knowledge: they wanted something more. ... They were men with restless hearts, not satisfied with the superficial and the ordinary. They were men in search ... of God, ... watchful men, capable of reading God's signs, His soft and penetrating language. But they were also courageous, yet humble: we can imagine them having to endure a certain amount of mockery for setting off to find the King of the Jews, at the cost of so much effort. For them it mattered little what this or that person, what even influential and clever people thought and said about them. For them it was a question of truth itself, not human opinion. Hence they took upon themselves the sacrifices and the effort of a long and uncertain journey. Their humble courage was what enabled them to bend down before the child of poor people and to recognise in Him the promised King, the One they had set out, on both their outward and their inward journey, to seek and to know".
"How can we fail to recognise in all this certain essential elements of episcopal ministry? The bishop too must be a man of restless heart, not satisfied with the ordinary things of this world, but inwardly driven by his heart's unrest to draw ever closer to God, to seek His face, to recognise Him more and more, to be able to love Him more and more. The bishop too must be a man of watchful heart, who recognises the gentle language of God and understands how to distinguish truth from mere appearance. The bishop too must be filled with the courage of humility, not asking what prevailing opinion says about him, but following the criterion of God's truth and taking his stand accordingly. ... He must be able to go ahead and mark out the path, ... in the footsteps of Him who went ahead of us all because He is the true shepherd: ... Jesus Christ. And he must have the humility to bend down before the God Who made Himself so tangible and so simple that He contradicts our foolish pride in its reluctance to see God so close and so small.
"The liturgy of episcopal ordination interprets the essential features of this ministry in eight questions addressed to the candidates. ... These questions direct the will and mark out the path to be followed. Here I shall briefly cite just a few of the most important words of this presentation, where we find explicit mention of the elements we have just considered in connection with the wise men of today's feast. ... Preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, going ahead and leading, guarding the sacred heritage of our faith, showing mercy and charity to the needy and the poor, thus mirroring God's merciful love for us, and finally, praying without ceasing: these are the fundamental features of the episcopal ministry. Praying without ceasing means: never losing contact with God, letting ourselves be constantly touched by Him in the depths of our hearts. ... Only someone who actually knows God can lead others to God".
"Our heart is restless for God and remains so, even if every effort is made today, by means of most effective anaesthetising methods, to deliver people from this unrest. But not only are we restless for God: God's heart is restless for us. God is waiting for us. He is looking for us. He knows no rest either, until He finds us. ... That is why He set out on the path towards us, to Bethlehem, to Calvary, from Jerusalem to Galilee and on to the very ends of the earth. God ... looks out for people willing to 'catch' His unrest, His passion for us, people who carry within them the searching of their own hearts. ... This was the task of the Apostles: to receive God's unrest for man and then to bring God Himself to man. And this is your task as successors of the Apostles".
"The wise men followed the star. ... The wise men from the East, ... like all the saints, have themselves gradually become constellations of God that mark out the path. ... The saints are stars of God, by whom we let ourselves be led to Him for Whom our whole being longs. ... As you are ordained bishops, you too are called to be stars of God for men, leading them along the path towards the true light, towards Christ".
HML/ VIS 20120107 (1000)
CHURCH HAS NO TECHNICAL SOLUTION, BUT CAN GUIDE MANKIND
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - At midday today, Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, the Holy Father appeared at the window of his private study overlooking St. Peter's Square, to pray the Angelus with faithful gathered below. During his remarks he announced a forthcoming consistory, due to be held on 18 February, for the creation of twenty-two new cardinals.
Introducing the Marian prayer, Benedict XVI explained that the Epiphany "is an ancient feast, which ... highlights the mystery of Christ's manifestation to all peoples, represented by the Magi who came to adore the newborn King of the Jews in Bethlehem, as the Gospel of St. Matthew says".
"The entire period of Christmas and Epiphany is characterised by the theme of light", the Pope explained. "Jesus is the sun which rose on the horizon of humankind to illuminate the individual life of each one of us and guide us, all together, towards the goal of our pilgrimage, towards the land of freedom and peace in which we will forever live in full communion, with God and among ourselves".
The announcement of this mystery of salvation was entrusted by Christ to His Church. "The world, with all its resources, is unable to give humanity the light to guide it on its journey. This is clear also in our own day, when Western society seems to have lost direction and is feeling its way forward. Yet the Church, thanks to the Word of God, sees beyond these shadows. She does not possess technical solutions but she has her gaze turned to the final destination offering the light of the Gospel to all men and women of good will, of whatever nation or culture".
After the Angelus prayer, the Pope expressed his congratulations to the Eastern Churches which, in accordance with the Julian calendar, will celebrate Christmas tomorrow. "May each family and each community be filled with the light and peace of Christ the Saviour", he said.
He also recalled the fact that the Epiphany coincides with the Day of Missionary Children. "Dear children and young people", he said, "may your hearts, like the heart of Jesus, be open to the world. Yet also remain attentive to those who live near you and be ready to extend a hand to them".
Finally the Pope addressed greetings in a number of languages to the pilgrims gathered below his window. Speaking to Polish faithful he said: "To your prayers I entrust a countryman of yours [Marek Solczynski], a new nuncio who received episcopal ordination this morning".
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PASTORAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE YEAR OF FAITH
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - Made public today was a Note from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith containing pastoral recommendations for the Year of Faith. Summarised extracts of the English-language version are given below.
"With the Apostolic Letter of 11 October 2011, 'Porta fidei', Pope Benedict XVI declared a Year of Faith. This Year will begin on 11 October 2012, ... and will conclude on 24 November 2013, the Solemnity of our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King".
"The beginning of the Year of Faith coincides with the anniversaries of two great events which have marked the life of the Church in our days: the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, ... and the twentieth of the promulgation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church".
Recommendations for the Universal Church
- The main ecclesial event will be the thirteenth General Assembly of the Ordinary Synod of Bishops, on "The New Evangelisation for the Transmission of the Christian Faith" to be held in October. It is during the Synod that the Year of Faith will begin.
- Encouraging pilgrimages of the faithful to the See of Peter and to the Holy Land.
- Inviting the faithful to recognise the special role of Mary in the mystery of salvation, to love her and follow her as a model of faith and virtue.
- Holding symposia, conferences and large gatherings to encourage encounters with authentic witness to the faith and to promote understanding of the contents of Catholic doctrine, especially the teachings of Vatican Council II.
- Deepening knowledge of the primary documents of Vatican Council II and of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This is especially true for candidates for priesthood, novices in Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, as well as for those in a period of discernment for joining an Ecclesial Association or Movement.
- More attentive reception of the homilies, catechesis, addresses and other speeches and documents of the Holy Father.
- Planning ecumenical initiatives aimed at the restoration of unity among all Christians. In particular, there will be a solemn ecumenical celebration in which all of the baptised will reaffirm their faith in Christ.
- A Secretariat to coordinate all of the different initiatives of the Year of Faith will be established within the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation. The Secretariat will also open a dedicated website.
- At the conclusion of the Year, on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King, there will be a Eucharist celebrated by the Holy Father, in which a solemn renewal of the profession of faith will take place.
Recommendations for episcopal conferences
- Dedicating a day of study to the topic of faith, its personal witness and its transmission to new generations.
- Promoting the republication in paperback and economical editions of the documents of Vatican Council II, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and its Compendium, and their wider distribution using modern technologies.
- Translating the documents of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church into languages which lack a translation. Also, encouraging initiatives of charitable support to enable translations into the local languages of mission countries, where the local Churches cannot afford the expense.
- Promoting television and radio transmissions, films and publications focusing on the faith and on Vatican Council II. This should be done using the new styles of communication, especially on the popular level.
- Disseminating knowledge of local saints and blesseds, the authentic witnesses of the faith.
- Maximising the catechetical potential of local artistic patrimony, possibly with ecumenical cooperation.
- Educators in centres of theological studies, seminaries and Catholic universities should be encouraged to demonstrate the relevance within their various disciplines of the contents of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Preparing pamphlets and leaflets of an apologetic nature, with the help of theologians and authors, to help the faithful respond to the questions which arise in difficult contexts, including the challenge of sects and problems related to secularism.
- Examining local catechisms and various catechetical supplements in use in the particular Churches to ensure their complete conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and preparing new ones in case of need.
- Ensuring that the contents of the Catechism of the Catholic Church are present in the "Ratio" of formation for future priests, and in the curriculum of their theological studies.
Recommendations at the diocesan level
- It is hoped that each particular Church will celebrate the opening and the solemn conclusion of the Year of Faith.
- Organising a study day in each diocese on the Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly for priests, consecrated persons and catechists.
- Each bishop could devote a pastoral letter to the topic of faith, keeping in mind the specific pastoral circumstances of his faithful, reminding them of the importance of Vatican Council II and of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Organising catechetical events, especially for young people and those seeking the meaning of life, helping them to discover the beauty of ecclesial faith.
- Reviewing the reception of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the life and mission of dioceses, particularly in the realm of catechesis.
- Focusing the continuing education of the clergy on the documents of Vatican Council II and on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Organising penitential celebrations in which all can ask for God's forgiveness, especially for sins against faith.
- Renewing creative dialogue between faith and reason in the academic and artistic communities, through symposia, meetings and days of study, especially at Catholic universities.
- Promoting encounters with non-believers who sincerely search for the ultimate meaning and definitive truth of their lives and of the world, taking as an example the dialogues of the Courtyard of the Gentiles, sponsored by the Pontifical Council for Culture.
- Paying greater attention to Catholic schools, which are a perfect place to offer students a living witness to the Lord and to nurture their faith, using such instruments as the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and "Youcat".
Recommendations for parishes, communities, associations and movements
- All of the faithful are invited to read closely and meditate upon Pope Benedict XVI's Apostolic Letter, "Porta fidei".
- Intensifying the celebration of the faith in the liturgy, especially in the Eucharist, in which the faith of the Church is proclaimed, celebrated and strengthened. All of the faithful are invited to participate in the Eucharist actively, fruitfully and with awareness.
- Priests should devote greater attention to the study of the documents of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, apply this to their pastoral care and offer cycles of homilies on the faith or on certain specific aspects.
- Catechists should hold more firmly to the doctrinal richness of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and guide groups of faithful towards a deeper common understanding thereof.
- Parishes can help to distribute the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other resources appropriate for families - the primary setting for the transmission of the faith - for example, during the blessing of homes, the Baptism of adults, Confirmation and Marriage.
- Promoting missions and other popular programmes in parishes and in the workplace, to help the faithful rediscover the gift of baptismal faith and the task of giving witness.
- Members of Institutes of Consecrated Life and of Societies of Apostolic Life are asked to work towards the new evangelisation, each according to their proper charism.
- Contemplative communities should pray specifically for the renewal of the faith among the People of God, and for a new impulse for its transmission to the young.
- Associations and Ecclesial Movements are invited to promote specific initiatives, through the contribution of their proper charism.
- All of the faithful should try to communicate their own experience of faith and charity to their brothers and sisters of other religions, believers and non-believers. In this way, it is hoped that the entire Christian people will begin a kind of mission towards those with whom they live and work.
The Note concludes by stating that "the recommendations provided here have the goal of inviting all of the members of the Church to work so that this Year may be a special time in which we, as Christians, may share that which is most dear to us: Christ Jesus, the Redeemer of mankind".
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AUDIENCES
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in audience:
- Cardinal Agostino Vallini, His Holiness' vicar general for the diocese of Rome.
- Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches.
- Archbishop Charles John Brown, apostolic nuncio to Ireland, accompanied by members of his family.
- Archbishop Marek Solczynski, apostolic nuncio to Georgia and Armenia, accompanied by members of his family.
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OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - The Holy Father:
- Appointed Fr. Henry Aruna of the clergy of Kenema, Sierra Leone, secretary general of the Inter-territorial Catholic Bishops' Conference of The Gambia and Sierra Leone, as bishop of Makeni (area 36,100, population 1,800,000, Catholics 50,000, priests 59, religious 43), Sierra Leone. The bishop-elect was born in Kenema in 1964 and ordained a priest in 1993. He studied in Liberia, Rome and Sierra Leone and has worked in pastoral care and education. He succeeds Bishop George Biguzzi S.X., whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.
- Appointed Fr. John Oballa Owaa, rector and professor of the national major seminary of St. Thomas Aquinas in Nairobi, Kenya, as bishop of Ngong (area 47,000, population 1,011,000, Catholics 83,247, priests 53, religious 183), Kenya. The bishop-elect was born in Kisumu, Kenya in 1958 and ordained a priest in 1986. He studied in Kenya and in Rome where he also worked as an official of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care.
- Appointed Fr. Serge Thomas Bonino O.P., secretary general of the International Theological Commission, as a consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
The Note contains more than 3 dozen concrete proposals on all levels of the life of the Church, from the Universal, to the Bishops’ Conferences, to individual Dioceses, and within these, to Communities, Associations and Movements, involving initiatives aimed at fostering Christian unity, to faith formation and renewal, and especially evangelization.
Fr. Hermann Geissler is responsible for the Doctrinal Office at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
He says the purpose of the Note is threefold: the first is to help the faithful to rediscover the nucleus of the faith, the foundation of the faith, which is the personal encounter with Christ, the personal encounter with the Lord who loves us, sustains us, forgives us, encourages us and shows us a great future… The second is that of helping the faithful to rediscover the meaning, and the documents of the II Vatican Council. “Many people talk about Vatican II,” says Fr. Geissler, “but when we really begin to get into it, we discover that only a very few people are really familiar with the texts of this great and most recent Council.” Finally, the note has the purpose of helping the faithful throughout the whole year to rediscover the integrity of the faith in all its beauty. “For this,” says Fr. Greissler, “the Catechism of the Catholic Church can be of great help to us.”
In fact, the 20th anniversary of the completion of the Catechism and the 50th anniversary of the opening of the II Vatican Council are focal points of the Year of Faith, which begins a half-century to the day from the Council’s opening. Following the Holy Father’s Apostolic Letter Porta fidei with which he proclaimed the Year of Faith, the Note recalls that the Catechism is an authentic fruit of the Council and an integral part of the “renewal in continuity” with the Church’s ancient and changeless Tradition of which the Conciliar documents are a most authoritative expression.
The Note expresses the hopeful intention of making the Year of Faith a propitious occasion to make the II Vatican Council and the Catechism of the Catholic Church more widely and more deeply known.
http://www.radiovaticana.org/en1/Articolo.asp?c=552703
BENEDICT XVI NAMES TWENTY-TWO NEW CARDINALS
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - "It is with great joy that I announce my intention to hold a concistory on 18 February, in which I will appoint twenty-two new members of the College of Cardinals". With these words, addressed to faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square to pray the Angelus, Benedict XVI today announced the fourth consistory of his pontificate.
"As is well known", he explained, "cardinals have the task of helping Peter's Successor carry out his mission to confirm people in the faith and to be the source and foundation of the Church's unity and communion". The new cardinals "come from various parts of the world and perform various ministries in the service of the Holy See, in direct contact with the faithful as fathers and pastors of particular Churches".
Eighteen of the new cardinals, being under the age of eighty, will be electors. Their names are:
- Archbishop Fernando Filoni, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples.
- Archbishop Manuel Monteiro de Castro, penitentiary major.
- Archbishop Santos Abril y Castello, archpriest of the papal basilica of St. Mary Major.
- Archbishop Antonio Maria Veglio, president of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant Peoples.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Bertello, president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and of the Governorate of Vatican City State.
- Archbishop Francesco Coccopalmerio, president of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts.
- Archbishop Joao Braz de Aviz, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
- Archbishop Edwin Frederick O'Brien, pro-grand master of the Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
- Archbishop Domenico Calcagno, president of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Versaldi, president of the Prefecture for the Economic Affairs of the Holy See.
- Major Archbishop George Alencherry of Ernakulam-Angamaly of the Syro-Malabars, India.
- Archbishop Thomas Christopher Collins of Toronto, Canada.
- Archbishop Dominik Jaroslav Duka, O.P. of Prague, Czech Republic.
- Archbishop Willem Jacobus Eijk of Utrecht, Holland.
- Archbishop Giuseppe Betori of Florence, Italy.
- Archbishop Timothy Michael Dolan of New York, U.S.A.
- Archbishop Rainer Maria Woelki of Berlin, Germany.
- Bishop John Tong Hon of Hong Kong, China.
The Holy Father also pronounced the names of four new cardinals who, being over the age of eighty, are ineligible to vote in a future conclave. "I have", the Pope said, "decided to elevate to the dignity of cardinal a venerable prelate who serves as pastor and father of a Church, and three worthy priests who have distinguished themselves for their dedication and service". They are:
- Major Archbishop Lucian Muresan of Fagaras and Alba Julia of the Romanians, Romania.
- Fr. Julien Ries, priest of the diocese of Namur and professor emeritus of religious history at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.
- Fr. Prosper Grech, O.S.A., professor emeritus of several Roman universities and consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
- Fr. Karl Josef Becker, S.J., professor emeritus of the Pontifical Gregorian University and for many years consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
In closing the Pope invited the faithful to pray for the new cardinals, "asking the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, to intercede that they may always bear courageous and dedicated witness of their love for Christ and His Church".
ANG/ VIS 20120107 (580)
BISHOPS MUST SHOW MERCY AND CHARITY TO THE POOR
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - In the Vatican Basilica at 10 a.m. today, the Pope presided at Mass for the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. During the ceremony he conferred episcopal ordination upon archbishops-elect Msgr. Charles John Brown, apostolic nuncio to Ireland, and Msgr. Marek Solczynski, apostolic nuncio to Georgia and Armenia. The Mass was concelebrated by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B.; Cardinal William Joseph Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the two new archbishops.
In his homily the Holy Father reflected on today's Gospel reading, the narrative of the Magi who came from the East to Bethlehem to adore the Baby Jesus, which he compared with the mission of bishops in the Church.
"The wise men from the East ... open up the path of the gentiles to Christ. During this holy Mass, I will ordain two priests to the episcopate, I will consecrate them as shepherds of God's people. According to the words of Jesus, part of a shepherd's task is to go ahead of the flock. So, allowing for all the differences in vocation and mission, we may well look to these figures, the first gentiles to find the pathway to Christ, for indications concerning the task of bishops".
The Magi "were, as we might say, men of science, but not simply in the sense that they were searching for a wide range of knowledge: they wanted something more. ... They were men with restless hearts, not satisfied with the superficial and the ordinary. They were men in search ... of God, ... watchful men, capable of reading God's signs, His soft and penetrating language. But they were also courageous, yet humble: we can imagine them having to endure a certain amount of mockery for setting off to find the King of the Jews, at the cost of so much effort. For them it mattered little what this or that person, what even influential and clever people thought and said about them. For them it was a question of truth itself, not human opinion. Hence they took upon themselves the sacrifices and the effort of a long and uncertain journey. Their humble courage was what enabled them to bend down before the child of poor people and to recognise in Him the promised King, the One they had set out, on both their outward and their inward journey, to seek and to know".
"How can we fail to recognise in all this certain essential elements of episcopal ministry? The bishop too must be a man of restless heart, not satisfied with the ordinary things of this world, but inwardly driven by his heart's unrest to draw ever closer to God, to seek His face, to recognise Him more and more, to be able to love Him more and more. The bishop too must be a man of watchful heart, who recognises the gentle language of God and understands how to distinguish truth from mere appearance. The bishop too must be filled with the courage of humility, not asking what prevailing opinion says about him, but following the criterion of God's truth and taking his stand accordingly. ... He must be able to go ahead and mark out the path, ... in the footsteps of Him who went ahead of us all because He is the true shepherd: ... Jesus Christ. And he must have the humility to bend down before the God Who made Himself so tangible and so simple that He contradicts our foolish pride in its reluctance to see God so close and so small.
"The liturgy of episcopal ordination interprets the essential features of this ministry in eight questions addressed to the candidates. ... These questions direct the will and mark out the path to be followed. Here I shall briefly cite just a few of the most important words of this presentation, where we find explicit mention of the elements we have just considered in connection with the wise men of today's feast. ... Preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, going ahead and leading, guarding the sacred heritage of our faith, showing mercy and charity to the needy and the poor, thus mirroring God's merciful love for us, and finally, praying without ceasing: these are the fundamental features of the episcopal ministry. Praying without ceasing means: never losing contact with God, letting ourselves be constantly touched by Him in the depths of our hearts. ... Only someone who actually knows God can lead others to God".
"Our heart is restless for God and remains so, even if every effort is made today, by means of most effective anaesthetising methods, to deliver people from this unrest. But not only are we restless for God: God's heart is restless for us. God is waiting for us. He is looking for us. He knows no rest either, until He finds us. ... That is why He set out on the path towards us, to Bethlehem, to Calvary, from Jerusalem to Galilee and on to the very ends of the earth. God ... looks out for people willing to 'catch' His unrest, His passion for us, people who carry within them the searching of their own hearts. ... This was the task of the Apostles: to receive God's unrest for man and then to bring God Himself to man. And this is your task as successors of the Apostles".
"The wise men followed the star. ... The wise men from the East, ... like all the saints, have themselves gradually become constellations of God that mark out the path. ... The saints are stars of God, by whom we let ourselves be led to Him for Whom our whole being longs. ... As you are ordained bishops, you too are called to be stars of God for men, leading them along the path towards the true light, towards Christ".
HML/ VIS 20120107 (1000)
CHURCH HAS NO TECHNICAL SOLUTION, BUT CAN GUIDE MANKIND
VATICAN CITY, 6 JAN 2012 (VIS) - At midday today, Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, the Holy Father appeared at the window of his private study overlooking St. Peter's Square, to pray the Angelus with faithful gathered below. During his remarks he announced a forthcoming consistory, due to be held on 18 February, for the creation of twenty-two new cardinals.
Introducing the Marian prayer, Benedict XVI explained that the Epiphany "is an ancient feast, which ... highlights the mystery of Christ's manifestation to all peoples, represented by the Magi who came to adore the newborn King of the Jews in Bethlehem, as the Gospel of St. Matthew says".
"The entire period of Christmas and Epiphany is characterised by the theme of light", the Pope explained. "Jesus is the sun which rose on the horizon of humankind to illuminate the individual life of each one of us and guide us, all together, towards the goal of our pilgrimage, towards the land of freedom and peace in which we will forever live in full communion, with God and among ourselves".
The announcement of this mystery of salvation was entrusted by Christ to His Church. "The world, with all its resources, is unable to give humanity the light to guide it on its journey. This is clear also in our own day, when Western society seems to have lost direction and is feeling its way forward. Yet the Church, thanks to the Word of God, sees beyond these shadows. She does not possess technical solutions but she has her gaze turned to the final destination offering the light of the Gospel to all men and women of good will, of whatever nation or culture".
After the Angelus prayer, the Pope expressed his congratulations to the Eastern Churches which, in accordance with the Julian calendar, will celebrate Christmas tomorrow. "May each family and each community be filled with the light and peace of Christ the Saviour", he said.
He also recalled the fact that the Epiphany coincides with the Day of Missionary Children. "Dear children and young people", he said, "may your hearts, like the heart of Jesus, be open to the world. Yet also remain attentive to those who live near you and be ready to extend a hand to them".
Finally the Pope addressed greetings in a number of languages to the pilgrims gathered below his window. Speaking to Polish faithful he said: "To your prayers I entrust a countryman of yours [Marek Solczynski], a new nuncio who received episcopal ordination this morning".
ANG/ VIS 20120107 (440)
PASTORAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE YEAR OF FAITH
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - Made public today was a Note from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith containing pastoral recommendations for the Year of Faith. Summarised extracts of the English-language version are given below.
"With the Apostolic Letter of 11 October 2011, 'Porta fidei', Pope Benedict XVI declared a Year of Faith. This Year will begin on 11 October 2012, ... and will conclude on 24 November 2013, the Solemnity of our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King".
"The beginning of the Year of Faith coincides with the anniversaries of two great events which have marked the life of the Church in our days: the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, ... and the twentieth of the promulgation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church".
Recommendations for the Universal Church
- The main ecclesial event will be the thirteenth General Assembly of the Ordinary Synod of Bishops, on "The New Evangelisation for the Transmission of the Christian Faith" to be held in October. It is during the Synod that the Year of Faith will begin.
- Encouraging pilgrimages of the faithful to the See of Peter and to the Holy Land.
- Inviting the faithful to recognise the special role of Mary in the mystery of salvation, to love her and follow her as a model of faith and virtue.
- Holding symposia, conferences and large gatherings to encourage encounters with authentic witness to the faith and to promote understanding of the contents of Catholic doctrine, especially the teachings of Vatican Council II.
- Deepening knowledge of the primary documents of Vatican Council II and of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This is especially true for candidates for priesthood, novices in Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, as well as for those in a period of discernment for joining an Ecclesial Association or Movement.
- More attentive reception of the homilies, catechesis, addresses and other speeches and documents of the Holy Father.
- Planning ecumenical initiatives aimed at the restoration of unity among all Christians. In particular, there will be a solemn ecumenical celebration in which all of the baptised will reaffirm their faith in Christ.
- A Secretariat to coordinate all of the different initiatives of the Year of Faith will be established within the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation. The Secretariat will also open a dedicated website.
- At the conclusion of the Year, on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King, there will be a Eucharist celebrated by the Holy Father, in which a solemn renewal of the profession of faith will take place.
Recommendations for episcopal conferences
- Dedicating a day of study to the topic of faith, its personal witness and its transmission to new generations.
- Promoting the republication in paperback and economical editions of the documents of Vatican Council II, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and its Compendium, and their wider distribution using modern technologies.
- Translating the documents of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church into languages which lack a translation. Also, encouraging initiatives of charitable support to enable translations into the local languages of mission countries, where the local Churches cannot afford the expense.
- Promoting television and radio transmissions, films and publications focusing on the faith and on Vatican Council II. This should be done using the new styles of communication, especially on the popular level.
- Disseminating knowledge of local saints and blesseds, the authentic witnesses of the faith.
- Maximising the catechetical potential of local artistic patrimony, possibly with ecumenical cooperation.
- Educators in centres of theological studies, seminaries and Catholic universities should be encouraged to demonstrate the relevance within their various disciplines of the contents of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Preparing pamphlets and leaflets of an apologetic nature, with the help of theologians and authors, to help the faithful respond to the questions which arise in difficult contexts, including the challenge of sects and problems related to secularism.
- Examining local catechisms and various catechetical supplements in use in the particular Churches to ensure their complete conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and preparing new ones in case of need.
- Ensuring that the contents of the Catechism of the Catholic Church are present in the "Ratio" of formation for future priests, and in the curriculum of their theological studies.
Recommendations at the diocesan level
- It is hoped that each particular Church will celebrate the opening and the solemn conclusion of the Year of Faith.
- Organising a study day in each diocese on the Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly for priests, consecrated persons and catechists.
- Each bishop could devote a pastoral letter to the topic of faith, keeping in mind the specific pastoral circumstances of his faithful, reminding them of the importance of Vatican Council II and of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Organising catechetical events, especially for young people and those seeking the meaning of life, helping them to discover the beauty of ecclesial faith.
- Reviewing the reception of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the life and mission of dioceses, particularly in the realm of catechesis.
- Focusing the continuing education of the clergy on the documents of Vatican Council II and on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Organising penitential celebrations in which all can ask for God's forgiveness, especially for sins against faith.
- Renewing creative dialogue between faith and reason in the academic and artistic communities, through symposia, meetings and days of study, especially at Catholic universities.
- Promoting encounters with non-believers who sincerely search for the ultimate meaning and definitive truth of their lives and of the world, taking as an example the dialogues of the Courtyard of the Gentiles, sponsored by the Pontifical Council for Culture.
- Paying greater attention to Catholic schools, which are a perfect place to offer students a living witness to the Lord and to nurture their faith, using such instruments as the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and "Youcat".
Recommendations for parishes, communities, associations and movements
- All of the faithful are invited to read closely and meditate upon Pope Benedict XVI's Apostolic Letter, "Porta fidei".
- Intensifying the celebration of the faith in the liturgy, especially in the Eucharist, in which the faith of the Church is proclaimed, celebrated and strengthened. All of the faithful are invited to participate in the Eucharist actively, fruitfully and with awareness.
- Priests should devote greater attention to the study of the documents of Vatican Council II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, apply this to their pastoral care and offer cycles of homilies on the faith or on certain specific aspects.
- Catechists should hold more firmly to the doctrinal richness of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and guide groups of faithful towards a deeper common understanding thereof.
- Parishes can help to distribute the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other resources appropriate for families - the primary setting for the transmission of the faith - for example, during the blessing of homes, the Baptism of adults, Confirmation and Marriage.
- Promoting missions and other popular programmes in parishes and in the workplace, to help the faithful rediscover the gift of baptismal faith and the task of giving witness.
- Members of Institutes of Consecrated Life and of Societies of Apostolic Life are asked to work towards the new evangelisation, each according to their proper charism.
- Contemplative communities should pray specifically for the renewal of the faith among the People of God, and for a new impulse for its transmission to the young.
- Associations and Ecclesial Movements are invited to promote specific initiatives, through the contribution of their proper charism.
- All of the faithful should try to communicate their own experience of faith and charity to their brothers and sisters of other religions, believers and non-believers. In this way, it is hoped that the entire Christian people will begin a kind of mission towards those with whom they live and work.
The Note concludes by stating that "the recommendations provided here have the goal of inviting all of the members of the Church to work so that this Year may be a special time in which we, as Christians, may share that which is most dear to us: Christ Jesus, the Redeemer of mankind".
CDF/ VIS 20120107 (1430)
AUDIENCES
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - The Holy Father today received in audience:
- Cardinal Agostino Vallini, His Holiness' vicar general for the diocese of Rome.
- Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches.
- Archbishop Charles John Brown, apostolic nuncio to Ireland, accompanied by members of his family.
- Archbishop Marek Solczynski, apostolic nuncio to Georgia and Armenia, accompanied by members of his family.
AL/ VIS 20120107 (80)
OTHER PONTIFICAL ACTS
VATICAN CITY, 7 JAN 2012 (VIS) - The Holy Father:
- Appointed Fr. Henry Aruna of the clergy of Kenema, Sierra Leone, secretary general of the Inter-territorial Catholic Bishops' Conference of The Gambia and Sierra Leone, as bishop of Makeni (area 36,100, population 1,800,000, Catholics 50,000, priests 59, religious 43), Sierra Leone. The bishop-elect was born in Kenema in 1964 and ordained a priest in 1993. He studied in Liberia, Rome and Sierra Leone and has worked in pastoral care and education. He succeeds Bishop George Biguzzi S.X., whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same diocese the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.
- Appointed Fr. John Oballa Owaa, rector and professor of the national major seminary of St. Thomas Aquinas in Nairobi, Kenya, as bishop of Ngong (area 47,000, population 1,011,000, Catholics 83,247, priests 53, religious 183), Kenya. The bishop-elect was born in Kisumu, Kenya in 1958 and ordained a priest in 1986. He studied in Kenya and in Rome where he also worked as an official of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care.
- Appointed Fr. Serge Thomas Bonino O.P., secretary general of the International Theological Commission, as a consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
ASIA : CHINA : CARDINAL DESIGNATE FILONI AND HON
UCAN REPORT:
He and 21 others will receive their red hats during a papal consistory scheduled
for February 18
Bishop John Tong Hon holds the hair-relic of Blessed
John Paul late last year
Pope Benedict XVI today named Archbishop Fernando
Filoni and Bishop John Tong Hon of Hong Kong, both experts on China Church
affairs, as new cardinals during the Angelus in St Peter’s Square.
They were among 22 new cardinals who will receive red hats in the fourth consistory of Benedict’s pontificate on February 18.
Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun said there is generally only one cardinal in a diocese but since he will turn 80 on January 13, which means he will have no voting rights in a papal conclave, it is reasonable for the pope to name another cardinal for Hong Kong.
Noting that it is a personal choice of the pope, the retired bishop of Hong Kong said “it is to show his goodwill towards China.”
Bishop Tong, 72, will be the seventh Chinese cardinal in history.
Bishop Tong was born in 1939 and ordained a priest in 1966. He was appointed auxiliary bishop in 1996 and then coadjutor bishop in 2008. He was installed as the ordinary in 2009 after Cardinal Zen retired.
Besides teaching at the Holy Spirit Seminary College, Bishop Tong has served as director of the Holy Spirit Study Centre, a research center specializing in China Church affairs, since its inception in 1980.
In an interview with ucanews.com when he became the ordinary, Bishop Tong said his concern for the China Church will continue, but he will adhere to Church principles in dealing with the mainland.
However, he has adopted a different style from the outspoken Cardinal Zen in showing care for brothers and sisters in China. In his 2010 Christmas message, Bishop Tong asked his Catholics to fulfill their important responsibility of Bridge Church “in a prudent and low profile manner.”
Archbishop Filoni has served as prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples since May 2011.
Before that, he served as substitute for the General Affairs of the Secretariat of State, the third most important position at the Vatican.
The Italian archbishop was born in 1946 and ordained a priest in 1970. After entering the Holy See´s diplomatic service in 1981, he worked mostly in Asia.
Between 1992-2001, he was assigned to Hong Kong to head a “study mission,” during which he acted as the pope’s link with the Church in mainland China.
The two new cardinals are also members of the Vatican’s Commission for the Church in China.
http://www.ucanews.com/2012/01/06/pope-names-bishop-tong-as-cardinal/
They were among 22 new cardinals who will receive red hats in the fourth consistory of Benedict’s pontificate on February 18.
Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun said there is generally only one cardinal in a diocese but since he will turn 80 on January 13, which means he will have no voting rights in a papal conclave, it is reasonable for the pope to name another cardinal for Hong Kong.
Noting that it is a personal choice of the pope, the retired bishop of Hong Kong said “it is to show his goodwill towards China.”
Bishop Tong, 72, will be the seventh Chinese cardinal in history.
Bishop Tong was born in 1939 and ordained a priest in 1966. He was appointed auxiliary bishop in 1996 and then coadjutor bishop in 2008. He was installed as the ordinary in 2009 after Cardinal Zen retired.
Besides teaching at the Holy Spirit Seminary College, Bishop Tong has served as director of the Holy Spirit Study Centre, a research center specializing in China Church affairs, since its inception in 1980.
In an interview with ucanews.com when he became the ordinary, Bishop Tong said his concern for the China Church will continue, but he will adhere to Church principles in dealing with the mainland.
However, he has adopted a different style from the outspoken Cardinal Zen in showing care for brothers and sisters in China. In his 2010 Christmas message, Bishop Tong asked his Catholics to fulfill their important responsibility of Bridge Church “in a prudent and low profile manner.”
Archbishop Filoni has served as prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples since May 2011.
Before that, he served as substitute for the General Affairs of the Secretariat of State, the third most important position at the Vatican.
The Italian archbishop was born in 1946 and ordained a priest in 1970. After entering the Holy See´s diplomatic service in 1981, he worked mostly in Asia.
Between 1992-2001, he was assigned to Hong Kong to head a “study mission,” during which he acted as the pope’s link with the Church in mainland China.
The two new cardinals are also members of the Vatican’s Commission for the Church in China.
http://www.ucanews.com/2012/01/06/pope-names-bishop-tong-as-cardinal/
AMERICA : USA : CARDINAL DESIGNATE DOLAN AND O'BRIEN
aCardinal-designate Dolan
Cardinal-designate O'Brien
USCCB RELEASE:
WASHINGTON—Archbishop Joseph Kurtz,
vice-president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB),
congratulated Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, 61, and Archbishop Edwin
F. O’Brien of Baltimore, 72, on being named cardinals by Pope Benedict XVI,
January 6. They will be officially elevated to the College of Cardinals,
February 18, in Rome.“This is an honor for these outstanding church leaders as well as an honor for the Church in the United States,” Archbishop Kurtz of Louisville said.“As men of prayer, wisdom and dedication, they will bring many talents and graces to their new roles as advisors to the Holy Father.”
Archbishop Kurtz noted their generous service beyond their respective archdioceses.
“The entire USCCB has benefitted from their many abilities,” he said. “As president of the USCCB and as former president of Catholic Relief Services, Cardinal-designate Dolan has brought both energy and grace to international and domestic matters.”
He noted Cardinal-designate O’Brien’s unique contributions as well.
“Cardinal-designate O’Brien’s experience with the military has made him a valuable consultant on USCCB justice and peace efforts,” he said. “His seminary background has proven especially insightful in development of our priestly formation programs.”
The new appointments make the churchmen members of the College of Cardinals, where they can be called upon by the pope to serve as advisors at consistories on church affairs, and they will be among members of a conclave that elects successors of the pope. Cardinals can vote in a conclave until they reach the age of 80.
Cardinal-designate Dolan heads the Archdiocese of New York, which traditionally has been led by a cardinal. His predecessor in New York was Cardinal Edward M. Egan, who is 79.
Cardinal-designate O’Brien was named Pro-Grand Master of the Equestrian (Knights) Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher on August 29, 2011. The Rome-based position is usually held by a cardinal. Cardinal John P. Foley resigned from the position last February due to illness and died in Philadelphia, December 11, 2011. The order is a chivalric organization dedicated to promoting and defending Christianity in the Holy Land, supporting the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and responding to the needs of Catholics in the region. Cardinal-designate O’Brien also remains head of the Baltimore Archdiocese until Pope Benedict names his successor there.
Timothy Dolan was born in St. Louis and ordained a priest in 1976, for the St. Louis Archdiocese and then served in local parishes. Subsequent assignments included service at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, vice-rector at Kenrick Seminary in St. Louis, and rector at North American College in Rome. Pope John Paul II named him an auxiliary bishop of St, Louis in 2001, and archbishop of Milwaukee in 2002. Pope Benedict XVI named him archbishop of New York in 2009. He holds a doctorate in church history from The Catholic University of America.
Edwin O’Brien was born in New York and ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of New York in 1965. He served as a chaplain at the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York, and later as an Army chaplain in Vietnam. He served as secretary to New York’s Cardinal Terence Cooke and Cardinal John O’Connor and as rector at St. Joseph’s Seminary in New York and North American College, Rome. He holds a doctorate in sacred theology from the Angelicum University in Rome.
In 1996, he was named an auxiliary bishop of New York. In 1997, he was named coadjutor archbishop for the Archdiocese for Military Services USA, and became head of the military archdiocese later that year. He was named archbishop of Baltimore in 2007.
# # # # #
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sr. Mary Ann Walsh
O: 202-541-3200
M: 301-325-7935
AUSTRALIA : BUDGET MUST INCLUDE AGED CARE REFORM
ARCHDIOCESE
OF MELBOURNE RELEASE: CATHOLIC Health Australia has called on Treasurer Wayne
Swan to give aged care reform the attention it deserves as he begins the
difficult process of pulling together the Federal Budget for 2012-13. 
In its pre-Budget submission, CHA – the largest owner grouping of health and aged care services in Australia – said there has been a lot of positive talk from politicians about the need for an overhaul of the aged care system. The time for talk is now over.
“When the Government was seeking re-election for a second term in 2010, it made a commitment that aged care reform would be a priority during this term,” Catholic Health Australia chief executive Martin Laverty said.
“As we near the halfway mark in that three-year term, it is now time for the Government to put its money where its mouth is.”
Mr Laverty said the Government has invested a lot of time and money in preparing for this moment, most significantly in the Productivity Commission’s report Caring for Older Australians, released last August. It echoed the call of earlier reports that fundamental reform was needed in the aged care sector.
“The recommendations of that report have received widespread support from the industry, various peak bodies and consumer groups, so the Productivity Commission has really provided a blueprint for how the Government and the Parliament can proceed down the path of reform,” he said.
In its pre-Budget submission sent to the Treasurer just before Christmas, CHA acknowledged that the changes would amount to a fundamental restructuring of aged care in Australia, meaning it would take time to implement those changes.
“Having said that, though, we believe the Government needs to make concrete progress in this year’s Budget,” Mr Laverty said.
That should include a timetable for reform, the prioritising of the development of a system of care entitlements, initiation of a process to establish Seniors Gateway Centres and the expansion of community care places. Among other recommendations, CHA also called on the Government to support capital investment in residential care.
“A lot of these proposals will take time, and we recognise the Government’s desire for a Budget surplus, but announcing a timeline for implementation of these reforms would be a long stride in the right direction,” Mr Laverty said.
http://www.cam.org.au/news/2012-budget-must-provide-aged-care-reform-plan.html
In its pre-Budget submission, CHA – the largest owner grouping of health and aged care services in Australia – said there has been a lot of positive talk from politicians about the need for an overhaul of the aged care system. The time for talk is now over.
“When the Government was seeking re-election for a second term in 2010, it made a commitment that aged care reform would be a priority during this term,” Catholic Health Australia chief executive Martin Laverty said.
“As we near the halfway mark in that three-year term, it is now time for the Government to put its money where its mouth is.”
Mr Laverty said the Government has invested a lot of time and money in preparing for this moment, most significantly in the Productivity Commission’s report Caring for Older Australians, released last August. It echoed the call of earlier reports that fundamental reform was needed in the aged care sector.
“The recommendations of that report have received widespread support from the industry, various peak bodies and consumer groups, so the Productivity Commission has really provided a blueprint for how the Government and the Parliament can proceed down the path of reform,” he said.
In its pre-Budget submission sent to the Treasurer just before Christmas, CHA acknowledged that the changes would amount to a fundamental restructuring of aged care in Australia, meaning it would take time to implement those changes.
“Having said that, though, we believe the Government needs to make concrete progress in this year’s Budget,” Mr Laverty said.
That should include a timetable for reform, the prioritising of the development of a system of care entitlements, initiation of a process to establish Seniors Gateway Centres and the expansion of community care places. Among other recommendations, CHA also called on the Government to support capital investment in residential care.
“A lot of these proposals will take time, and we recognise the Government’s desire for a Budget surplus, but announcing a timeline for implementation of these reforms would be a long stride in the right direction,” Mr Laverty said.
http://www.cam.org.au/news/2012-budget-must-provide-aged-care-reform-plan.html
EUROPE : RUSSIA : PATRIARCH - CHRIST THE SUN THAT LIGHTS THE PATH
ASIA NEWS REPORT; by Nina Achmatova
Russian Orthodox Christmas in 60 countries around the world. Patriarch Kirill celebrates Divine Liturgy in the presence of Medvedev and 6 thousand faithful.
Moscow (AsiaNews) - It is Christmas for the Russian
Orthodox present in 60 countries worldwide. More than 6 thousand faithful
gathered last night at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow, where
Patriarch Kirill celebrated the Divine Liturgy. In the front row with President
Dmitry Medvedev, his wife Svetlana and many prominent figures from Russian
politics and civil society. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, however, welcomed the
Christmas in the Cathedral of the Transfiguration in St. Petersburg, where he
was baptized in 1952.
The Russian Orthodox celebrate Christmas according to the Julian calendar. This is "delayed" by 13 days compared to the Gregorian, which was adopted by Catholics, Protestants, some Orthodox - such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate - and the secular world. January 7, marks the end of abstinence from meat, sweets and alcohol, which began Nov. 28, and is a national holiday.
At the end of Divine Liturgy, Kirill urged all Christians in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus (the ancient Rus') to maintain their strong faith in God, looking to him as "the sun of divine truth, and in the light of this truth understand what is good and what evil, true and false salvation and death. " According to the Patriarch, many people in contemporary society "do not connect any light of truth to the cave of Bethlehem: they continue to worship idols and bind truth to strength and the power of humanity".
In his message for Christmas, Kirill had also reminded the faithful that "God became flesh in order to show the world his love and help those who want to listen to his word to find the fullness of life." As is tradition, the patriarch has also congratulated the Russian astronauts on the International Space Station, linking up live from his residence.
Many Russian politicians, however, starting with Medvedev, used Twitter to make their Christmas wishes. All but Putin, who continues to treat the web with contempt. According to a poll by the Levada independent center, 65% of Russians celebrate Christmas. The Moscow Patriarchate is the point of reference for circa 150 million faithful, 30 thousand churches and 800 monasteries in 60 countries around the world. On January 7, the Orthodox Christmas is celebrated in Georgia, Serbia, Jerusalem, the monks of Mount Athos and also the Greek-Catholics in Ukraine.
http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Christmas,-Kirill-to-Orthodox-Church:-Look-to-Christ-as-the-sun-that-lights-the-path-23633.html
Russian Orthodox Christmas in 60 countries around the world. Patriarch Kirill celebrates Divine Liturgy in the presence of Medvedev and 6 thousand faithful.
Moscow (AsiaNews) - It is Christmas for the Russian
Orthodox present in 60 countries worldwide. More than 6 thousand faithful
gathered last night at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow, where
Patriarch Kirill celebrated the Divine Liturgy. In the front row with President
Dmitry Medvedev, his wife Svetlana and many prominent figures from Russian
politics and civil society. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, however, welcomed the
Christmas in the Cathedral of the Transfiguration in St. Petersburg, where he
was baptized in 1952.The Russian Orthodox celebrate Christmas according to the Julian calendar. This is "delayed" by 13 days compared to the Gregorian, which was adopted by Catholics, Protestants, some Orthodox - such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate - and the secular world. January 7, marks the end of abstinence from meat, sweets and alcohol, which began Nov. 28, and is a national holiday.
At the end of Divine Liturgy, Kirill urged all Christians in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus (the ancient Rus') to maintain their strong faith in God, looking to him as "the sun of divine truth, and in the light of this truth understand what is good and what evil, true and false salvation and death. " According to the Patriarch, many people in contemporary society "do not connect any light of truth to the cave of Bethlehem: they continue to worship idols and bind truth to strength and the power of humanity".
In his message for Christmas, Kirill had also reminded the faithful that "God became flesh in order to show the world his love and help those who want to listen to his word to find the fullness of life." As is tradition, the patriarch has also congratulated the Russian astronauts on the International Space Station, linking up live from his residence.
Many Russian politicians, however, starting with Medvedev, used Twitter to make their Christmas wishes. All but Putin, who continues to treat the web with contempt. According to a poll by the Levada independent center, 65% of Russians celebrate Christmas. The Moscow Patriarchate is the point of reference for circa 150 million faithful, 30 thousand churches and 800 monasteries in 60 countries around the world. On January 7, the Orthodox Christmas is celebrated in Georgia, Serbia, Jerusalem, the monks of Mount Athos and also the Greek-Catholics in Ukraine.
http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Christmas,-Kirill-to-Orthodox-Church:-Look-to-Christ-as-the-sun-that-lights-the-path-23633.html
AFRICA : ANGOLA : ARCHBISHOP CALLS YOUTH TO PEACE
CISA REPORT: LUANDA, January 6,
2012 (CISA) -Archbishop Damião Franklin of Luanda in Angola, has called on
youth in his country to do more to promote justice and peace.
While speaking on Sunday to mark the World Day
for Peace 2012, he said that the youth must be educated on peace.
He added that it is the responsibility of everybody including teachers, parents, the media and religious leaders.
Archbishop Franklin also said that for education to be meaningful to young people, it should be guided by good example.
Angola emerged out of a 27-year civil war in 2002. The country is still experiencing the social, moral and economic consequences of that war.
He added that it is the responsibility of everybody including teachers, parents, the media and religious leaders.
Archbishop Franklin also said that for education to be meaningful to young people, it should be guided by good example.
Angola emerged out of a 27-year civil war in 2002. The country is still experiencing the social, moral and economic consequences of that war.
TODAY'S SAINT : JAN. 7 : ST. RAYMOND OF PENYAFORT
St. Raymond of Penyafort
PRIEST, RELIGIOUS
Feast: January 7
 Information:
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From the bull of his canonization, by Clement VIII in 1601,
and his life, written by several Spanish, Italian and French authors. See
Fleury, b. 78, n. 55, 64, and chiefly Touron Hommes Illustres de l'Ordre de S.
Domin. t. 1, p. I
The house of Pegnafort, or, as it is pronounced, Pennafort, was descended from the counts of Barcelona, and nearly allied to the kings of Aragon. Raymund was born in 1175, at Pennafort, a castle in Catalonia, which in the fifteenth century was changed into a convent of the order of St. Dominick. Such was his rapid progress in his studies, that at the age of twenty he taught philosophy at Barcelona, which he did gratis, and with so great reputation, that he began then to be consulted by the ablest masters. His principal care was to instil into his scholars the most perfect maxims of a solid piety and devotion, to compose all differences among the citizens, and to relieve the distressed. He was about thirty years of age when he went to Bologna, in Italy, to perfect himself in the study of the canon and civil law, commenced Doctor in that faculty, and taught with the same disinterestedness and charity as he had done in his own country. In 1219 Berengarius, bishop of Barcelona, who had been at Rome, took Raymund home with him, to the great regret of the university and senate of Bologna; and, not content with giving him a canonry in his church, made him his archdeacon, grand vicar, and official. He was a perfect model to the clergy, by his innocence, zeal, devotion, and boundless liberalities to the poor, whom he called his creditors. In 1222 he took the religious habit of St. Dominick at Barcelona, eight months after the death of the holy founder, and in the forty-seventh year of his age. No person was ever seen among the young novices more humble, more obedient, or more fervent. To imitate the obedience of a Man-God, who reduced himself to a state of subjection to his own creatures, to teach us the dangers and deep wound of self-will, and to point out to us the remedy, the saint would depend absolutely on the lights of his director in all things. And it was upon the most perfect self-denial that he laid the foundation of that high sanctity which he made the object of his most earnest desires. The grace of prayer perfected the work which mortification had begun. In a spirit of compunction he begged of his superiors that they would enjoin him some severe penance, to expiate the vain satisfaction and complacency which he said he had sometimes taken in teaching. They indeed imposed on him a penance, but not such a one as he expected. It was to write a collection of cases of conscience for the instruction and conveniency of confessors and moralists. This produced his Sum the first work of that kind. Had his method and decisions been better followed by some later authors of the like works, the holy maxims of Christian morality had been treated with more respect by some moderns than they have been, to our grief and confusion.
Raymund joined to the exercises of his solitude the
functions of an apostolical life, by laboring without intermission in preaching,
instructing, hearing confessions with wonderful fruit, and converting heretics,
Jews, and Moors Among his penitents were James, king of Aragon, and St. Peter
Nolasco, with whom he concerted the foundation of the Order of the B. Virgin of
mercy for the redemption of captives. James, the young king of Aragon had
married Eleonora of Castile within the prohibited degrees, without a
dispensation. A legate was sent by pope Gregory IX. to examine and judge the
case. In a council of bishops of the two kingdoms, held at Tar rayon, he
declared the marriage null, but that their son Don Alphonso should be reputed
lawfully born, and heir to his father's crown. The king had taken his confessor
with him to the council, and the cardinal legate was so charmed with his talents
and virtue, that he associated him in his legation and gave him a commission to
preach the holy war against the Moors. The servant of God acquitted himself of
that function with so much prudence, zeal, and charity, that he sowed the seeds
of the total overthrow of those infidels in Spain. His labors were no less
successful in the reformation of the manners of the Christians detained in
servitude under the Moors which were extremely corrupted by their long slavery
or commerce with these infidels. Raymund showed them, by words full of heavenly
unction and fire, that, to triumph over their bodily, they must first conquer
their spiritual enemies, and subdue sin in themselves, which made God their
enemy. Inculcating these and the like spiritual lessons, he ran over Catalonia,
Aragon, Castile, and other countries. So general a change was wrought hereby in
the manners of the people, as seemed incredible to all but those who were
witnesses of it. By their conversion the anger of God was appeased, and the arms
of the faithful became terrible to their enemies. The kings of Castile and Leon
freed many places from the Moorish yoke. Don James, king of Aragon, drove them
out of the islands of Majorca and Minorca, and soon after, in 1237, out of the
whole kingdom of Valentia. Pope Gregory IX. having called St. Raymund to Rome in
1230, nominated him his chaplain, (which was the title of the Auditor of the
causes of the apostolic palace,) as also grand penitentiary. He made him
likewise his own confessarius, and in difficult affairs came to no decision but
by his advice. The saint still reserved himself for the poor, and was so
solicitous for them that his Holiness called him their father. He enjoined the
pope, for a penance, to receive, hear, and expedite immediately all petitions
presented by them. The pope, who was well versed in the canon law, ordered the
saint to gather into one body all the scattered decree of popes and councils,
since the collection made by Gratian in 1150. Raymund compiled this work in
three years, in five books, commonly called the Decretals, which the same pope
Gregory confirmed in 1234. It is looked upon as the best finished part of the
body of the canon law; on which account the canonists have usually chosen it for
the texts of their comments. In 1235, the pope named St. Raymund to the
archbishopric of Tarragon, the capital of Aragon: the humble religious man was
not able to avert the storm, as he called it, by tears and entreaties; but at
length fell sick through anxiety and fear. To restore him to his health, his
Holiness was obliged to consent to excuse him, but required that he should
recommend a proper person. The saint named a pious and learned canon of Gironne.
He refused other dignities with the like constancy.
For the recovery of his health he returned to his native
country, and was received with as much joy as if the safety of the whole
kingdom. and of every particular person, had depended on his presence. Being
restored again to his dear solitude at Barcelona, he continued his former
exercises of contemplation, preaching, and administering the sacrament of
penance. Except on Sundays, he never took more than one very small refection in
the day. Amidst honors and applause he was ever little in his own eyes: he
appeared in the schools like a scholar, and in his convent begged the superior
to instruct him in the rules of religious perfection, with the humility and
docility of a novice. Whether he sung the divine praises with his brethren, or
prayed alone in his cell, or some corner of the church, ho poured forth an
abundance of tears; and often was not able to contain within himself the ardor
of his soul. His mildness and sweetness were unalterable. The incredible number
of conversions of which he was the instrument, is known only to Him who, by his
grace, was the author of them. He was employed frequently in most important
commissions, both by the holy see and by the king. But he was thunderstruck by
the arrival of four deputies from the general chapter of his order at Bologna,
in 1238, with the news that he was chosen third general, Jordan of Saxony being
lately dead. He wept and entreated, but at length acquiesced in obedience. He
made the visitation of his order on foot, without discontinuing any of his
penitential austerities, or rather exercises. He instilled into his spiritual
children a love of regularity, solitude, mortification, prayer, sacred studies,
and the apostolical functions, especially preaching. He reduced the
constitutions of his order into a clearer method, with notes on the doubtful
passages. This his code of rules was approved in three general chapters. In one
held at Paris in 1239, he procured the establishment of this regulation, that a
voluntary demission of a superior, founded upon just reasons, should be
accepted. This he contrived in his own favor; for, to the extreme regret of the
order, he in the year following resigned the generalship, which he had held only
two years. He alleged for his reason his age of sixty-five years. Rejoicing to
see himself again a private religious man, he applied himself with fresh vigor
to the exercises and functions of an apostolical life, especially the conversion
of the Saracens. Having this end in view he engaged St. Thomas to write his work
'Against the Gentiles;' procured the Arabic and Hebrew tongues to be taught in
several convents of his order; and erected convents, one at Tunis, and another
at Murcia, among the Moors. In 1256, he wrote to his general that ten thousand
Saracens had received baptism. King James took him into the island of Majorca.
The saint embraced that opportunity of cultivating that infant church. This
prince was an accomplished soldier and statesman, and a sincere lover of
religion, but his great qualities were sullied by a base passion for women. He
received the admonitions of the saint with respect, and promised amendment of
life, and a faithful compliance with the saint's injunctions in every
particular; but without effect. St. Raymund, upon discovering that he
entertained a lady at his court with whom he was suspected to have criminal
conversation, made the strongest instances to have her dismissed, which the king
promised should be done, but postponed the execution. The saint, dissatisfied
with the delay, begged leave to retire to his convent at Barcelona. The king not
only refused him leave, but threatened to punish with death any person that
should undertake to convey him out of the island. The saint, full of confidence
in God, said to his companion, "A king of the earth endeavors to deprive us of
the means of retiring; but the King of heaven will supply them." He then walked
boldly to the waters, spread his cloak upon them, tied up one corner of it to a
staff for a sail, and having made the sign of the cross, stepped upon it without
fear, while his timorous companion stood trembling and wondering on the shore.
On this new kind of vessel the saint was wafted with such rapidity, that in six
hours he reached the harbor of Barcelona, sixty leagues distant from Majorca.
Those who saw him arrive in this manner met him with acclamations. But he,
gathering up his cloak dry, put it on, stole through the crowd, and entered his
monastery. A chapel and a tower, built on the place where he landed, have
transmitted the memory of this miracle to posterity. This relation is taken from
the bull of his canonization, and the earliest historians of his life. The king
became a sincere convert, and governed his conscience, and even his kingdoms, by
the advice of St. Raymund from that time till the death of the saint. The holy
man prepared himself for his passage to eternity, by employing days and nights
in penance and prayer. During his last illness, Alphonsus, king of Castile, with
his queen, sons, and brother; and James, king of Aragon, with his court, visited
him, and received his last benediction. He armed himself with the last
sacraments; and, in languishing sighs of divine love, gave up his soul to God,
on the 6th of January, in the year 1275, and the hundredth of his age. The two
kings, with all the princes and princesses of their royal families, honored his
funeral with their presence: but his tomb was rendered far more illustrious by
miracles. Several are recorded in the bull of his canonization, published by
Clement VIII. in 1601. Bollandus has filled fifteen pages in folio with an
account of them. His office is fixed by Clement X. to the 23d of
January.
The saints first learned in solitude to die to the world and
themselves, to put on the spirit of Christ, and ground themselves in a habit of
recollection and a relish only for heavenly things, before they entered upon the
exterior functions even of a spiritual ministry. Amidst these weighty
employments, not content with reserving always the time and means of frequent
retirement for conversing with God and themselves, in their exterior functions
by raising their minds to heaven with holy sighs and desires, they made all
their actions in some measure an uninterrupted prayer and exercise of divine
love and praise. St. Bonaventure reckons it among the general exercises of every
religious or spiritual men, "that he keep his mind always raised, at least
virtually, to God: hence, whensoever a servant of God has been distracted from
attending to him for ever so short a space, he grieves and is afflicted, as if
he was fallen into some misfortune, by having been deprived of the presence of
such a friend who never forgets us. Seeing that our supreme felicity and glory
consists in the eternal vision of God, the constant remembrance of him is a kind
of imitation of that happy state: this the reward, that the virtue which
entitles us to it. Till we are admitted to his presence, let us in our exile
always bear him in mind: every one will behold him in heaven with so much the
greater joy, and so much the more perfectly, as he shall more assiduously and
more devoutly have remembered him on earth. Nor is it only in our repose, but
also in the midst of our employments, that we ought to have him present to our
minds, in imitation of the holy angels, who, when they are sent to attend on us,
so acquit themselves of the functions of this exterior ministry as never to be
drawn from their interior attention to God. As much as the heavens exceed the
earth, so much larger is the field of spiritual meditation than that of all
terrestrial concerns."
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SOURCE: http://www.ewtn.com/saintsHoly/saints/R/straymondofpenyafort.asp#ixzz1ioTmtnhW
TODAY'S GOSPEL AND MASS ONLINE : SAT. JAN. 7, 2012
| John
2: 1 - 11
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| 1 | On the third day there was a marriage at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; |
| 2 | Jesus also was invited to the marriage, with his disciples. |
| 3 | When the wine failed, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." |
| 4 | And Jesus said to her, "O woman, what have you to do with me? My hour has not yet come." |
| 5 | His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." |
| 6 | Now six stone jars were standing there, for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. |
| 7 | Jesus said to them, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. |
| 8 | He said to them, "Now draw some out, and take it to the steward of the feast." So they took it. |
| 9 | When the steward of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward of the feast called the bridegroom |
| 10 | and said to him, "Every man serves the good wine first; and when men have drunk freely, then the poor wine; but you have kept the good wine until now." |
| 11 | This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory; and his disciples believed in him. |
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