Bahama Catholic - December 2018

Follow us @archdioceseofnassau THE NEWSPAPER OF THE CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF NASSAU December 2018 Christmas Message from The Archbishop The Most Rev. Patrick C. Pinder, STD, CMG, (KC*HS) Our worship throughout the 2:10ff.) year is arranged around The birth of this savior is the source and foundation of all our hope. This good news is two great feasts. They are what keeps us firm when faced with the many shades and shadows of darkness which Easter and Christmas. Easter has its visit us. It may be in the form of painful disappointment in a personal relationship, a well-known Proclamation, the setback in physical health, the death of a loved one or financial calamity in business. Exultet. Christmas too has it own The great fifth century bishop, Augustine, knew this well. Thus he could write: unique, if less well-known, “Scripture does not say that He will not allow you to be tried, but that he will not allow Proclamation. It outlines, beautiful- you to be tried beyond your strength. Whatever the trial, he will see you through it safe- ly, all the great events in the history ly, and so enable you to endure…. You are like a piece of pottery, shaped by instruction, of salvation beginning with creation fired by tribulation. When you are put into the oven therefore, keep your thoughts on and leading up to the birth of Christ. the time when you will be taken out again; for God is faithful, and He will guard both This is what it says: your going in and your coming out.” (Sermo 256, 1,2,3, PL38, 1191-1193) We too are the people who have walked in darkness and have seen a great light. The Some millions of years having good news announced by the angel is intended for us. The savior born in the city of past since the creation of the world, David is Christ and Lord for us too. So we rejoice at Christmas. when, in the beginning, God created heaven and earth. Some thousands This year Christmas falls on a Tuesday. For Catholics, the Sunday following Christmas is of years from the salvation of man the Feast of the Holy Family. We think of the Holy Family and we imagine Joseph, Mary when the family of Noah survived and the infant Jesus. We recall the many trials they may have had. The gospel gives us the flood; about nineteen centuries after the promise was given to Abraham, the father an example of their flight from Israel into Egypt and back. All this was to protect the of our faith, many ages after Moses brought the people from bondage in Egypt, a thou- child from the violence and harm present then and all too present in our world today sand years from the anointing of David as King over the chosen people; in fulfillment of still. the times years and months and days discerned by the vision of the prophets in the course of secular history; in the one hundred and ninety-third Olympiad; seven and one This time of year it is fitting to think of our own families. Thoughts of family evoke warm half centuries from the founding of the city of Rome; in the twentieth year of the reign memories of love and affection and commitment. They also evoke feelings of pride or of the Emperor Octavian Augustus, while the whole world enjoyed a span of peace; in anger or guilt or issues unresolved. Nevertheless we should think of our families at this the sixth and final age of human achievement … wishing to consecrate the whole world time. Father, mother, sister, brother; these are not just words. These are statements and all time by his blessed presence, Jesus Christ eternal God and Son of the eternal about relationships. Relationships are important in our lives. The most natural of our Father, conceived as man by the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit, after nine months of relationships is family. In the absence of adequate bonds with our biological family growth in the womb of his mother, was born of the Virgin Mary and for our salvation members, we tend to seek and to find meaningful substitute mothers and fathers and became man in Bethlehem of Judah. Now in our own times this marks the birthday of brothers and sisters. Christmas is a time to remember and to be with family. Our Lord Jesus Christ after the manner of all flesh. (Proclamation of Christmas) If there is a need for healing and renewal in family relationships there is no better time for it than Christmas. The Prophet Isaiah captures it all very simply, if symbolically, when he says: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of One of the images we associate with Christmas is that of angels. The Gospel of Luke gloom a light has shone.” (Isaiah 9:1) presents their song of praise at the birth of Christ thus: “Glory to God in the highest and The cycle of days and weeks and months has brought us to the celebration of Christmas on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” (Luke 2:14) once again. We celebrate the birth of Christ. We hold firmly that Christ is the “light” In our worship we sing this song of praise throughout the year in that great hymn of of which the prophet speaks when he says that “the people who walked in darkness have praise we call the “Gloria.” This is a solemn reminder to us that the spirit of hope and seen a great light.” joy and generosity which we associate with Christmas should be a staple feature of our lives all year round. Darkness can visit us in many forms as we know so well. It is always an uninvited guest. Yet it can make itself present unannounced and in an instant. Still we have reasons to be thankful. For one, we have been speared the destruction of hurricanes this year, Merry Christmas! thank God. Devotedly yours in Christ, The light which guides us through the darkness comes in the form of good news. The Most Reverend Patrick C. Pinder Gospel of Luke has an angel deliver the message in these words. “Do not be afraid; for Archbishop of Nassau behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.” (Luke

2 Looking Beyond Christmas: An Advent Reflection “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36 By Deacon William Fielding tives, these preparations should be overshadowed by our spiritual preparations. As we consider our preparation, We heard these words in our Gospel reading on we should focus on the second coming when we will need the First Sunday of Advent. This means that to “stand before the Son of God”. It then becomes clear Christmas is just around the corner - again. that what we undertake in terms of spiritual preparation Where has the year gone, we might ask? It seems like last in Advent, needs to be continued beyond the 25th week when we were taking down the advent wreath; now December because we have no date for the second com- we seem to be pressed for time to put it back up. ing. When we were younger, Christmas seemed to take forever know when He will return. Unlike Christmas, there is no When Luke uses the phrase “to stand”, it can remind us to come. We waited impatiently for our parents to put up date. We cannot put an entry in our phone calendar, of the crippled woman who could not stand straight the tree, for family members to gather for food and fellow- “Christ returns, 6pm Thursday”, and wait for the because she was bound by Satan (Lk. 13:11). We must ship. Although Christmas took so long to come, even so, reminders so that we are ready. For those of us who like make sure that we are not bound by Satan and sin when we knew it would, and so we could count down the days. to plan, this is all rather inconvenient. Our Gospel tells us Jesus comes again. One activity we can do to help loosen I wonder how many of us are prepared for Christmas this that with regard to the second coming, it must not be a the bonds of sin is to participate in the Sacrament of year? Some may say, “It will come whether I am ready or day that catches us by surprise, we must be vigilant at all Reconciliation during Advent. In a sense, this sacrament not”. While we cannot disagree with that reply, it seems times. So, we are being set an impossible task; to be ready will help to straighten our souls, brighten our spiritual life, rather disappointing. We know when Christmas is. We for an event when we do not know the date. and banish the gloom caused by our sin so that when know what Christmas is -- it is a celebration of the great Christ comes our hearts will be full of light. In the same in-breaking of God, physically, in human form, into histo- As a result, we are left with just one option. We need to be way we prepare our houses for Christmas, we need to ry. We plan for many things in our lives, so why not plan constantly ready, another inconvenience. Just as we are determine what changes we must make to our spiritual for Christmas? We can prepare, we have the date, it’s the reminded to be in a constant state of readiness for a hurri- lives so that we can better welcome Christ into our hearts. 25th December. Let’s face it, we seem to be ruled by the cane between June and November, we need to be pre- But in doing so, we need to look beyond the 25th and our calendar; we just have to think of our bill payment sched- pared. As Jesus says, “be vigilant at all times, and pray that preparation for Christmas and ask, “What do I need to do ule. We had better be prepared to pay our bills on time or you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are to be ready for that second coming?”; the date of which I else we shall be in big trouble. Just think of the reminders imminent and to stand before the Son of Man” at the sec- do not know. which appear on our smart phones -- 15 minutes, 10 min- ond coming. So, if we think of this in terms of our utes, 5 minutes -- before each and every event, so we have preparations for Christmas, it is a bit like preparing for We know that Christmas trees soon fade and turn brown. no excuse to be late. Christmas, but without knowing the date. If we did not Similarly, without constant care and attention our spiritual know the date of Christmas, we would need to have our life can, in a sense, fade and turn brown. To keep our- However, as well as our planning may work for our daily decorations out all the time. We would need to be vigilant, selves prepared for the second coming, what we do during living, for our spiritual lives this does not work so well. looking out for the notice as to when Christmas would Advent, we need to do regularly: confession, spiritual Our Gospel makes it clear that while we may be planning start. devotions, regular alms-giving - not just when the for Christmas using all the features of our smart phone, Archbishop asks, or when we hear a bell outside the shops, we are being asked to prepare spiritually not only for the While it is good to prepare our homes with Christmas dec- not just for Christmas. Will we make time for confession first coming of Christ at Christmas, but for his second orations and to anticipate fellowship with friends and rela- and extra prayers? Will we “Be vigilant at all times and coming as well. As others have reminded us, Advent is pray”? Our preparations for Christmas need to become not a season of the present, or the past, is a time for our daily, ordinary, preparations for the second coming, so preparing for the future; in fact, our whole life is an that we may be better able to stand, rather than be bowed “advent”. While the world is focused on getting ready to down by our sins, before Christ. buy presents, put up decorations, etc. L,uke is wanting us to look further, to plan further. We need to plan for that Therefore, as we enter our Advent season, let us focus on second coming of Christ. This does not take away from making our souls ready so that we are not only prepared the importance of the first coming, notwithstanding the for Christmas, but are prepared “to stand before the Son birth of Christ is historically a past event, but stresses the of Man”. importance of the present and future repercussions. We believe that the Son of Man will come again. Each Sunday we pray: “He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead.” The problem we have is that we do not

3 Christmas: God’s Surprise Christmas morning affirms the humanity of God By Fr. David Remy reduced them to a vessal state. What a surprise the first Christmas morning was for them and for us - Our Savior, the Son of the Loving God came to us without royal \"fanfare.\" Every year at this time, children around the world are thinking of the gifts they will He came to us in the silence of the night. His light had penetrated the darkness of the ask and receive from parents and friends. Some of these gifts will be a real sur- word. He has come as one of us - oh, what a surprise it was! prise but they will all be happy because they will have a gift. For us adults our minds are turned on the newborn babe laying in the manger in Bethlehem - this is one of At Christmas, as we contemplate the child in the manger, it will speak to us of the power the great nights in the history of salvation. of the incarnation; that is, the will of God to enter our world and become one of us. This child is the Son or the Most High, not an ordinary infant. Here is what the angel had Long time ago, Isaiah the prophet on the occasion of the birth of Hezekiah said, \"For a said to his mother Mary: \"... He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High and child is born to us, a Son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests.\" (Is 9:5) By this the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father. The Holy Spirit will come saying, Isaiah prophesied about the coming of the one and real King who would be a \"... upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you... The child to be born Wonderful Counselor, God-Hero, Father- forever, Prince of Peace\" (Is 9:56) This new will be called Holy, the Son of God.” (Lk 1:32-35) King would bring peace and liberation for the people, as a prophet Isaiah was speaking for the future. Christmas morning affirms the humanity of God. He who is the Word of God, the power behind everything that exists, has come to us in the simplicity of a birth. He was The prophecy of Isaiah is realized on the night that the heavenly messengers came to the born in a small village and the first witnesses of this great historical event were the shep- shepherds, who were keeping watch over their sheep, and announced to them this great herds. He came to us at a time when a national census was being taken. There is a chance event. \"Do not be afraid; for behold I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will that his birth could have been registered. He entered and left this world like everybody be for all the people. For today in the city of David, a Savior has been born for you who else through birth and death, respectively. He will grow up in the village of Nazareth like is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swad- everybody. He will work as a carpenter and will participate in all the activities of the com- dling clothes and lying in a manger\" (Lk 2:10) The shepherds responded quickly at this munity. announcement. \"Let us go to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to you.\" (Lk 2:156) Christmas tells us that Jesus, Son of Mary, is also the Son of God. By coming to us as a man, He showed his willingness to accept our human condition, except sin. St. John said This event is not only for the shepherds or for the Jewish people. This event is also for it: \"... The Word of God became flesh and dwells among us.\" This is indeed a very strong us because the heavenly messengers said: \"I proclaim to you good news of great joy that expression, \" to dwell\" means to make it your place, your habitation. It could mean also will be for all people.\" This word \"people\" is a reference to all the nations. This good that God had fallen in love with mankind, so that He decided to become part of it. \"He news was intended for all mankind since Isaiah had said long time ago: \"All flesh will see has pitched his tent.\" He built his house among us - God is at ease - He is at home. the saving power of God.\" (Is 40) When we meditate on this mystery of God become man, it reveals to us the depth of Therefore I invite you to come to the manger with me. Let it be to the manger in your God's love for his creation. This love is manifested in a gift. Again, St. John had captured church or in your house. While you are there, do not just stand there, but let your imagi- that truth when he said: \"God so love the world that He gave us His only Son, so that nation take you back 2000 plus to that first Christmas. What do you see? What comes to those who believe in Him may have eternal life.\" (John 3:16). In this pronouncement we mind? Whom do you have before the manger? These are some important questions we find the reason of the incarnation, which is the salvation of mankind. God had decided must ask ourselves that can help us in our reflections or meditations. to pitch his tent among us for no other reason than to save us from the slavery of sin and eternal death. This is the ultimate reason. In daily life we have the habit of searching for God in events that are spectacular - in mir- Our meditation on this mystery reveals to us that God never turns his back on us, his acles. \"A great prophet has risen among us and God has visited his people.\" (Lk 7:16) creation. He never ceases to love us in spite of our multiple failures in life. We are sinners Such was the exclamation of the people before one of the miracles of Jesus. We also and daily we continue to act against his will for us, but as a loving and forgiving father, search for God in big cathedra’s, miraculous shrines. No matter how far they are, people He continues to search for us, until He finds us in His Son Jesus who is the sacrament of travel thousands of miles to go to see religious persons for their spiritual charismas who God and man. When God comes to us as a man, He wants to tell us in no uncertain are manifestations of God's presence. Who would believe that the child in the manger is terms, that we are still His children. We are important. He values us so much that He did more than an ordinary child. This is the only Son of God. Yes, God has come into our not hesitate to give us His only begotten Son. world in a way that no one was expecting the Messiah to be a child or to be the Son of God. No one knew that God had a son. At the manger we are indeed facing the reality of the incarnation: God became man to save man. This is the beginning of the good news, namely the presence of God in to our The entry of a King into a city, the return of a victorious general after a war, the arrival world. Like the shepherds who returned with great joy, retelling the story to everyone in of a great visitor, are usually conducted with a very spectacular fanfare. With music in the village, let us open our arms and our hearts to accept the gift that God has given us. the street, popular dances, people congregate along the street to welcome the king, gener- After receiving Him, let us take Him to others, announcing to prisoners that their libera- al or the visitor. Months before that, the streets would be decorated, the public lights tion is at hand, to the sick that healing is forth coming. would be fixed. Everything would be done just to give an impression that everything is fine. Every valley should be filled in, every mountain and hill shall be made low; the May the Christ that you have received at Christmas continue to grow in you and may he rugged land shall be made plain, the rough country, a broad valley. Then the glory of the walk with you everyday of this coming New Year 2019. Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together...\" (Isaiah 40:5) The people of Israel, deprived and oppressed by the invaders, were looking for a redeemer promised long time ago. They were hoping that he would be a powerful warrior who would come with his heavenly army to free them from the military oppression which

4 AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE Archdiocese hosts first Liturgical Music Workshop Fr. Jeremy King, Archbishop Pinder and Vernice Russell. Liturgical musicians, including choir directors, organists from various parish- es, attended a workshop on Liturgical Music from November 27-30. Over one hundred participants from twelve parishes attended the nightly sessions led by Fr. Jeremy King, O.S.B, who served as Archabbey choirmaster of the Archabbey Liturgical Music Program programs at Saint Meinrad College and School of Theology. He is also a cantor and accompanist. The aim of the workshop was to provide the fundamentals of music in Catholic Worship, to review the Parts of the Mass and Liturgy of the Hours and how to choose Hymns and Music appropriate to the Liturgical Seasons and Special Feasts. Many of the participants expressed that they have experienced a new solemnity towards the Mass and that a deeper reverence and adoration was inevitable. A Reflection by BJ Percentie, choir director, On Wednesday night Father King highlighted the Francis Richardson from St. Francis Xavier Cathedral said, “there was a true rep- St. Thomas More Church parts of the Mass. He stated that the Eucharistic resentation of the Faith at the workshop. The liturgical Rubrics in celebrating the Prayer is the highlight of the Mass, and that when the Eucharistic were well explained and presented.” Richardson expressed sincere They came from all the various parishes, the bells ring, it is for all the Assembly to focus on the thanks and appreciation that we all were afforded to be exposed to some of the east, west, north and south eager to hear from altar, which is the ultimate sacrifice. Liturgical norms associated with the Catholic Eucharistic Liturgy and to other Father Jeremy King, OSB expound on the forms of Catholic Liturgy. Fundamentals of Music in Catholic Worship. It was The three Canticles, was one of the subjects Fr. King truly an “awesome and enlightening workshop.” spoke about. The Magnificat, which is the Song of For Benjamin Davis, a young organist and parishioner of St. Paul the Apostle Mary, the Benedictus, which is the Song of Zachariah Church, the workshop, teaching alternate tunes for the responsorial psalm was On the first night, Father King explained that, “when and the Nunc Dimittis, which is the Song of Simeon. one topic he found valuable. “I would love to have Fr. Jeremy come back again; I Christians gather in the name of Jesus to celebrate the Out of the three, I only knew two of them, so this believe we can all gain additional knowledge both in the Catholic faith and as it mysteries of their faith, their communal action, which was very interesting and informative for me. relates to being a church musician.” is called liturgy, is composed of certain symbolic ges- tures within which music and singing occupy a privi- On Thursday night, Father King talked about how to choose the appropriate hymns and music for the litur- Let us all individually and collectively gical seasons and special feasts. What I truly appreci- do our part to enhance our liturgy ated him saying, as a professional on music in liturgy, throughout this archipelago. Whether was how we are never to replace the Psalm with a we sing traditional, contemporary or hymn, which we sometimes do. The Eight Gregorian typically folk, let us use our gifts and Modes were another aspect of the workshop I truly talents and sing with zest and energy to enjoyed. Father truly went in depth having us sing the glory and honour of our God! from Mode 1 to Mode 8. I also appreciated how he explained each pair of melodies for 2 to 6- line stan- zas, which represents the various psalms. leged place.” He stated that, “the foremost reason for Overall the workshop was “off the chain.” Father Participants from St. Paul the Apostle Church. all song during the liturgy is to give praise and thanks King gave us a lot of food for thought to take to our to God.” He spoke about each song during the Mass parishes and we cannot thank him enough. from the entrance hymn, which is to foster unity of those who have gathered, and to the recessional So, as we step out of our comfort zones and go East, hymn. West, North and South, let us all try to embrace the variety of music styles and take what we have learnt over these three nights into our parish communities.

5 Fruits of the Spirit: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” PeaceBY HELEN G. CAMPBELL ~John 14:27 Over the last few weeks I have been thinking of this fruit of the Spirit “PEACE”. Then Jesus Christ”. ~Phil 4:6-7 God can certainly do wonders in our lives and grant us this peace I heard the song, “We got to have peace, To keep the world alive And war to cease.” “that surpasses all understanding”. There is only one condition. We cannot want this peace It must have been from an advertisement. That song reverberated in my head. I had while we continue to hold on to the problem. We have to let go unconditionally and let God do to do some research. I found out that this was a song done in 1971 by the singer Curtis Mayfield His work. We must surrender our will to Him. sung more than forty years ago. The 1970’s were troubled times. The United States of America was embroiled in the Vietnamese war! Lots of protests! In Trinidad & Tobago, the Black Power Prayer is at the root of it all: prayer with praise and thanksgiving. How grateful are we for anoth- Revolution! In The Bahamas, the thrust towards Independence!! It is obvious that Curtis er opportunity to commune with the Lord, to feel His healing power as He does His work! We Mayfield had sent out a cry on behalf of many others. need only fill our hearts with love and gratitude and we can begin to experience this fruit of the Holy Spirit. What a balm to our spirit it is to know that He is with us through every moment Peace is an elusive element which people have been searching for most of their lives. Where of the day! What blessed peace! The wondrous gift of Christ to the world! To achieve peace, does one go to find peace in this troubled world? Wars have been fought and are still being we need a right relationship with God and with others. It protects our hearts and minds from fought in the name of peace. How can that be? How can we justify the deaths of people, inno- worry, fear and anxiety in this troubled world. God is the God of peace whose presence in our cent people who are caught between two opposing factions? Can we escape the pressures of lives creates a quiet confidence. Pray the prayer of St Francis of Assisi, “Lord, make me an the day and simply go to find solace in a church? However, churches are now locked when they instrument of Your Peace…” are not in use! We can no longer sit in a church at any unappointed time and seek the solace with- in. No longer is the sanctity of the church recognized by certain elements of society. The beach? It is now for us to take a hard, long look at ourselves. How can we ensure and insure that we Some days, such a beautiful sight, especially on the days when the sea is so calm and looks like have inner peace? Forget what anyone else is doing. It lies within us. Are we doing and living glass. That deep cerulean blue that makes us appreciate the beauty of our home! Other days, right? Are we living a life of gratitude, kindness and sharing? How can we share that joy of the waves can come crashing into the road. Then the sea looks so angry. Like we feel? being at peace with others? Mother Teresa said that peace begins with a smile. Smile!! Help another to achieve the calm that God’s presence has given us. Share a comforting word. Be a Do we really have to physically go in search of peace? Do we recognize that this elusive peace joyful “peace-giver”! comes from within us? The peace that we seek is “God’s Peace”, and the end of the search rests with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He is the great Healer, our Shelter in every storm, our The Advent season provides a great opportunity for us to achieve our goal of finding peace. Light at the end of a dark tunnel. The Prince of Peace! Look to Him!! Know that peace can During this time we physically begin the yearly task of cleaning and decorating for Christmas. exist in your heart even while the storms are raging. However, it is so important to remember that Advent, the “Coming” is a period of spiritual preparation for His Arrival. Let us cleanse our hearts and minds! Let us rid ourselves of all the Peace begins with recognition and acceptance. We recognise the restlessness of our spirits. We “garbage” we have accumulated!! Let nothing interfere with our readiness for the celebration of accept that we are troubled. We go to the Lord in prayer and thankfulness. Even in the midst the birth of our Lord and Saviour, our Prince of Peace. “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Mend your of the turmoil of this life, the presence of God is what we need, the source from which we gath- ways, encourage one another, agree with one another, live in peace. And the God of love and er strength and the peace which we seek. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer peace will be with you.” ~2 Cor 13:11. As we walk humbly with God, this fruit of the Spirit is and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of ours to achieve. Follow God’s words, have faith to believe, ... and let the peace of God rule in God, which SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING, will guard your hearts and minds through our hearts... ~Col 3: 15 St. Francis Xavier (1505 - 1552) The Patron Saint of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral & our Archdiocese St. Francis Xavier is considered to be the greatest of the missionaries colonies. He began his ministry in Goa, India where he also established new since the apostles. Christian missions. Leaving the subcontinent, Xavier traveled extensively in the Far East, often under He is the saint in whose honor St. Francis Xavier Cathedral is named, and the most deplorable conditions, including extremes of heat and cold, and frequently the co-patron saint of the Archdiocese of Nassau. He is considered among on his bare feet. His ministry extended to the Island of Ceylon and to other the greatest missionaries since the apostles. Portuguese colonies in the East Indies. Known as the Apostle to the Far East, Xavier was born to an aristocratic His work, proselytizing native populations, opened his eyes to colonial abuses. In let- family in the Basque region of Spain in April 1506. He died on the Island of ters to his financial patron, King John of Portugal, he protested against the mistreat- Sancian near the coast of China in December 1552, before having reached ment of the natives by Portuguese settlers, and admonished against Portugal's part in the age of 47. the slave trade and in the plunder of colonies for their riches. Conquering the Japanese language, he introduced Christianity to Japan, and not with- After completing studies in Spain at age 19, Xavier was sent to study at the standing considerable opposition to his preaching by some of the Japanese leader- University of Paris. He read philosophy and theology for a career as a pro- ship, he established a number of Christian communities, which grew and survive to fessor. He met Ignatius Loyola in Paris and they developed a warm friend- this day. His plan to extend his missionary work to Mainland China was stopped by ship. In 1534 he joined Loyola and five of others in the formation of the his illness and subsequent death on the Island of Sancian, near the coast of China. Society of Jesus. Called healer, prophet and miracle worker, Francis Xavier is credited with teaching Xavier left Paris in 1536 to join Loyola in Venice, Italy, from where it was Catholic catechism to tens of thousands of people, particularly to the young; with intended that they would go to Palestine as missionaries. That trip never deepening and strengthening the understanding of the faith among Christian com- materialized. In Venice, Xavier engaged in charitable work among the sick. He was ordained in 1537 munities throughout the Far East; and with bringing thousands of people to and in the next year went to Rome where he participated in the conference, which led to the formal Christianity in India, Ceylen, the East Indies and Japan Francis Xavier was beatified in October recognition of the Society of Jesus by the Pope. 1619, canonized in March 1622 and proclaimed patron of all foreign missions on December 3rd of the same year. He his interred in the Basilica Bom Jesus in Goa, India. In 1542 he was sent to the Far East, becoming the first Jesuit missionary. His mission was to strengthen and deepen Christian faith among nascent Christian communities in the Portuguese Source: The Solemn Dedication of the New St. Francis Xavier Cathedral booklet (March 31, 2004)

6 News from Office of Family Life The Theology of the Body Study Programme: “Enlightening” MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE proposed a new vision for the building of a cul- ed to share it with others. This is one of the ture of human life where sexuality and love are most interesting and enlightening study semi- Sixteen couples successfully completed the experienced according to their true meaning. It nars I have attended in a long time. Therefore, Marriage Preparation Course held from is a call to relationship with Christ in and I urge as many parishioners as possible to reg- September 12 through November 14, 2018. through his body on earth, the Church, a call to ister for the next study group scheduled to Next session will begin on January 9, 2019. communion and, most especially, it is a vision begin in the new year. The Catholic Church is The classes are held at Emmaus Center. of what it means to be fully human. rich, not only in its liturgy and worship, but also Couples planning to marry by June 2019 in so many other areas. I encourage the faithful should enrol in this course. The registraton All participants were freely engaged in the lively to seek out its richness and discover what the fee is $100.00 per couple (includes text discussion and now look forward to sharing church has to offer. Let us all participate in the book and couple’s workbook.) this conversion experience with others. This evangelizing work of the church! At the conclusion of the program, atten- was just the beginning. dees were presented certificates of partic- Paticipant Julie Ritchie Bingham says the pro- ipation. Jeane Lundy (right) is pictured Co-facilitator, Heather Christie-Smith shares gram was engaging, thought-provoking, above with facilitator, Pasqualina Hoford her experience below: provocative. These would be a few words to (right). describe the introductory course of TOB. We I first came across St. John Paul II’s Theology have so many misconceptions regarding our The Archdiocesan Office of Family Life of The Body resource as I was searching for sexuality and for too long shied away from the , in association with Jeffrey and books on Catholicism written by catholic topic of sex in a religious setting and with TOB, Pasqualina Hoford and Heather Smith, authors, for my store. I came across books Pope St. John Paul II is inviting us to truly were pleased to facilitate the first group study authored by Christopher West. I learned that understand what God wants for us through our of the program called “An Introduction to the his books were based on the work and teach- sexuality. In this course, we truly only scratched Theology of the Body: Discovering the Master ings of St. John Paul II which he had given to the surface and I'm excited for the next level to Plan for your Life.” This refreshing 8- session his Wednesday audiences over a number of learn even more of God' plan for us. I invite series of video lectures and tutorials featuring years. Christopher West has brought these everyone to sign up for the next introductory Christopher West, is based on 129 Wednesday writings to a level of understanding for the course, so you too will truly start to know audiences delivered by Pope John Paul II who average lay person like me. Up to this time, God's plan for you! none of the lay people I spoke with had ever heard of this work. Stay tuned, more programmes are planned on this topic and we look forward to renewed I became intensely excited about this and want- interest in this and further programmes. Marriage Renewal – Take a Chance! SAVE THE DATE: FEBRUARY 8 -10, 2019 Are you look- examine their lives together – a time to share their feelings, How does a Renewal Weekend enhance a marriage? ing for a their hopes, disappointments, joys and frustrations – and to special do so openly and honestly in a face-to-face, heart-to-heart The renewal weekend teaches a communication technique weekend together? encounter with the one person they have chosen to live with which permits each couple to explore important areas of their A time to relax, for the rest of their life. The emphasis of Marriage Renewal relationship in a spirit of love and understanding. By contin- dream dreams and is on communication between husband and wife, who spend uing the newly acquired technique begun on the weekend, fall in love again? A a weekend together away from the distractions and the ten- husbands and wives continually grow closer together to live time to set aside the sions of everyday life to concentrate on each other. It’s not a more joyful and purposeful lives. cares of work, fami- retreat, nor a marriage clinic, nor group sensitivity. It’s a ly, long hours and unique approach aimed at revitalizing the Christian Marriage. Whom is it for? juggled schedules? A This is a time for you and your spouse to be alone together. time to get back in touch with each other? We ask you then This is a time to rediscover each other and together focus on Any married couple that desires a richer, fuller life together. A to experience the extraordinary beauty a Marriage Renewal your relationship for an entire weekend. Every marriage marriage can never be too good. Marriage Renewal is Weekend can bring to your relationship. deserves that kind of attention! designed to deepen and enrich the joys a couple shares togeth- er, whether they have been married for only a short time or A Marriage Renewal Weekend is designed for couples who What happens at a Marriage Renewal Weekend? many years. Marriage Renewal also provides support and have good marriages, not so perfect ones, and who yearn to encouragement to priests and religious persons who are ded- work on enhancing their marriage. The weekend begins on A series of presentations are given by a team of Catholic cou- icated to their vocation in life. Friday evening and ends late Sunday afternoon. ples and a Catholic priest. Each presentation allows you and your spouse a rare opportunity to look at yourselves as indi- FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Archdiocesan Marriage Renewal Program viduals, then to look at your marriage and your relationship to THE OFFICE OF FAMILY LIFE @ 322-8919 each another, and finally to look at your relationship to God, Our Blog post: https://faithfulunion.wordpress.com/ The Marriage Renewal program for the Archdiocese of the Church and the world. The weekend starts at 7:30 pm on Nassau is designed to give married couples the opportunity to Friday night and runs until 5:00 pm on Sunday.

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8 Catholic Board of Education (CBE) gears up for the Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ Run/Walk Ready.... set gooooo The official logo for the ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ The Catholic Board of Education (CBE) invites all CBE primary school students, who are encouraged to embrace & Groovin’ Run/Walk’; designed by Shane alumni, parents, former teachers and administrators, the culture of giving back, have taken the lead raising funds by Stewart, Art teacher, Xavier’s Lower School, friends of Catholic schools, teachers and students to participating in a fun-filled sponsorship challenge. CBE now echoes this truth with an imprint of a foot in come together and commemorate the rich history and influ- invites alumni and friends to join CBE students in supporting colours representing each of the present CBE ence of Catholic schools in The Bahamas. On February 2, Catholic schools. Registration for the event is $20.00. schools. With the cross as its focus the logo shows 2019, in New Providence, all feet will hit the pavement at the Participation in the Run/Walk is free for all New Providence how all the various components, representing the ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ Run/Walk’ to celebrate CBE primary school students. various schools and stakeholders, come together to the past, present and future of Catholic education. The form one body. event will take place on February 1 on the islands of Abaco “The Catholic church’s engagement in education is our largest and Grand Bahama. footprint in the social development of the country,” said The Most Reverend Patrick Pinder, Archbishop of Nassau. The The goal of the ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ official logo for the ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ Run/Walk’ is threefold: to bring together all CBE schools; to Run/Walk’; designed by Shane Stewart, Art teacher, Xavier’s reconnect with CBE alumni and to raise funds for CBE Lower School, beautifully demonstrates this statement with an schools. Over CBE’s 129 years, Catholic education has imprint of a foot in the colours of each CBE school. With touched the lives of thousands throughout the islands of the cross at the forefront, the logo illustrates how the various The Bahamas. The CBE system is presently the second schools and stakeholders come together in communion with largest educational system in The Bahamas and the largest pri- one another. vate school system in the country. Persons can get more information about and register online Proceeds from the ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ for the ‘Catholic Schools Movin' & Groovin' Run/Walk’ at Run/Walk’ will benefit the development of CBE schools. A http://cboe.cec.edu.bs/cboerunwalk2019/. CBE also invites quick analysis will show that CBE schools provide a high qual- alumni to log on the event’s Facebook page and/or Instagram ity of education at tuition rates competitive with other local page to participate in our CBE alumni social media campaign. private schools and regional Catholic schools. CBE remains Alumni are asked to submit their favourite song from the year committed to maintaining affordable fees to ensure Catholic they graduated. The Aquinas College Band will play the top education is accessible to as many persons as possible. songs along the route of the Run/Walk. Fundraising helps CBE provide an educational experience that exceeds what tuition fees and government subvention alone “In anticipation of the year 2019 I sing that old, familiar cannot. Aligning with a key tenet of Catholic education to Pointer Sisters’ tune, ‘I’m so excited and I just can’t hide it…’ commit oneself to service, part proceeds from the ‘Catholic because this will be another epic year for Catholic schools to Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ Run/Walk’ will be donated to the demonstrate in traditional and contemporary ways, our com- Persis Rodgers Home for the Aged (New Providence) and The mitment to learning, serving, leading and succeeding,” Abaco Cancer Society (Abaco). exclaimed Mrs. Claudette Rolle, Director of Catholic Education. She explained: - “At the end of January, we will cel- The ‘Catholic Schools Movin’ & Groovin’ Run/Walk’ will take ebrate the system’s tenth observance of Catholic Schools place during Catholic Schools Week. Next year CBE will cele- Week. This week is important to us because it gives us an brate its 10th Annual Catholic Schools Week. Catholic Schools opportunity to share the positive impact that Catholic educa- Week is an annual event during which Catholic schools tion has and continues to have on the lives of many of our cit- throughout the United States and other territories celebrate izens from humble and esteemed beginnings. Moreover, we’re Catholic education and recognize the contributions Catholic thrilled that we will be able to bring our partners, alumni and schools make to local communities. Next year it will be cele- present scholars together on the threshold of the 130th brated January 27 – February 2, 2019. CBE will celebrate 130 anniversary of Catholic education in The Bahamas through years of Catholic education November 2019. our Movin’ and Groovin’ Fun Run/Walk event taking place in Abaco, Grand Bahama and New Providence.”

9 SEMINARIAN SPOTLIGHT: Christopher Curry Hometown: Nassau Bahamas. Growing up had its many moments of doubt and, in those moments I always found peace and sense of home High School: in the church. Gradually, I fell in love with service and Aquinas College Roman Catholic High School. truly began to consider priesthood. Graduated in 2018. What do I like most about being seminarian: Seminary: The best part of living in seminary is the fraternity that St. John Vianney College, Miami, FL. my brothers and I share in Christ. As iron sharpens iron, so these men whom God has called here help What factors led you to the Seminary: form me to be the best I can be. There are men from There were many determining factors in my discernment all over the world who study at this school. It's truly to enter seminary to further the seed of priesthood in amazing that God’s love is so infinite to bring these all my heart. To begin, seeing the great examples of Fr. these young men here for one purpose -- to discern the Glen and Fr. Paschal, the way they were true shepherds will of God. I am learning so many different things to their flock and wanting to be like that someday. from these men and truly, there is never a dull moment! St. Francis de Sales students excel MVP of the team for scoring the most goals for the team. Praises rang out for Coach Sharlene Parchment and Elmer Bongon and their assistants along with the enthusiastic players for a job well done!! RELIGIOUS SPEECH COMPETITION St. Francis de Sale, basketball team placed second place in the 1st Kashmir Excellence continued its exhibition on Reckley Basketball Tournament. November 7 when Omari Mills, a fifth grade student, won the Religious Knowledge Speech Submitted by St. Francis de Sales Catholic School Competition. In second place was Ashely Smith of Central Abaco Primary School (CAPS), and Alicia Wilchcombe of Fox Town Primary School placed third. Green Turtle Cay was beaming with excitement as four junior basketball teams Omari represented the island of Abaco in the final com- arrived in the quaint community in October 26 and 27 to participate in the 1st petition in Nassau on November 23. The St. Francis Kashmir Reckley Basketball Tournament. family extended kudos to him, his parents Marvin and The aim of the tournament was to raise awareness about lupus and to garner Melverne Mills, and his coach, Ronan Sarmiento. funds to assist those who have Meanwhile, the officers of the Department of Omari Mills, winner this disease with their medical Education congratulated all of the winners and participants of the competi- of the Religious expenses. tion. Knowledge Speech Competition is pic- The four schools that participat- ROTARY CLUB OF NASSAU tured with District ed in the competition were: SUNRISE SPEECH Superintendent Freeport Bible Academy, Grand COMPETITION Dominique Russell, receiving his certifi- Cay All Age School, Maurice In celebration of World Literacy Day, the Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise pre- Moore Primary School, and St. sented its 1st National Speech Competition. After celebrating its Interactors cate. Francis de Sales Catholic School. throughout the week, the Rotary members thought it fitting to end with the At the end of the tournament, St. speech competition on November 9. Francis de Sales placed second, and Durante Cash was named Kathleen Mendoza placed third at the Rotary Speech Competition just behind Aljero Knowles of St. Andrew’s School in first place, and the Government Kathleen Mendoza placed third in High School contestant, who placed second. the Rotary Club of Nassau St. Francis de Sales Catholic School saluted Kathleen as the only Family Island Sunrise’s Speech Competition. student to place in the top three. A job well done!

10 2018Year in Review around the Archdiocese Archbishop Pinder invested as Knight of Chaplain of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem Archbishop was invested as a Knight Commander with Star The EOHSJ is a Roman Catholic chivalric order whose tinuing charity in support of the Christian communities in of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem members, apart from providing support for the charitable the Holy Land, and to maintain the true charitable commit- (EOHSJ) by the Grand Master of the Order, Edwin Cardinal work of the Order in the Holy Land, are expected to be per- ment of a Christian. Top photo shows from left to right: O’Brien in a ceremony at St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York sons committed to the work and witness of their local Davy Rolle, Maria Butler and Archbishop Pinder. City on September 30. At the same ceremony, Retired Church and service in the community. Admission into the Commodore Davy Rolle, a member of St Francis Xavier Order means taking on a commitment for life to be a wit- Parish and Maria Teresa Butler of St Thomas More Parish ness to the Faith, to lead an exemplary Christian life of con- were also invested as Knight and Lady, respectively, of the Order. Burton and Camille Hall, also of St. Francis Xavier Parish, and members of the Order since 2009, were promot- ed to the rank of Knight and Lady Commander, with a Star. As a residential archbishop, Archbishop Pinder, entered the Order at the second highest rank. As with all members of the clergy, he does not adopt the title of “Sir” (his ecclesiastical courtesy titles being normative). However, his status is reflected in the post-nominal letters which he is at liberty to add thus: His Grace, the Most Reverend Patrick C Pinder KC*HS, CMG, STD. Jay Cartwright ordained to the Sacred Priesthood On Wednesday, May 23, 2018 Jay Cartwright was ordained to the Order of Priesthood by The Most Rev. Archbishop Patrick C. Pinder, STD, CMG, Archbishop of Nassau at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, becoming a member of the first Bahamian brother- priest duo. His younger brother Father Richard was ordained in 2016. Fr. Cartwright presently serves as Pastoral Associate at Holy Family Parish.

11 Site of The New St. Thomas More Parish Complex Blessed Sunday, August 12, 2018 was a momentous day for the parishioners of St. Thomas More Parish. They gathered at the site for the new St. Thomas More Parish Complex, formerly Garfunkel Auditorium, to witness the historic ceremony – the blessing and laying of a cornerstone and time capsule on the structure. Pictured at left from left to right; Father Anselm Russell, administrator, St. Thomas More Parish, Archbishop Patrick Pinder, Fr. Junior Calixte, Resident Priest, and acolyte, Kyle Sharif. Top photo: parishioners were taken on a tour, led by Archbishop Pinder of the construction site of the new St. Thomas More Parish Complex, fol- lowing the blessings and laying of the corner stone. Left photo: A conceptual drawing of the new St. Thomas More Parish Complex. When completed the space will include: a new church (seating capacity 300), a Blessed Sacrament Chapel, a sacristy, a parish hall, the parish office, bathrooms, a covered gathering space (or narthex) and a bell tower. Fr. Remy David celebrates 50th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination & Retires Fr. Remy David’s 50th anniversary of priestly ordination was recognised with a Papal Blessing from the Holy Father, which was presented to him by Archbishop Patrick Pinder during a special Mass at Mary, Star of The Sea Church, Freeport, Grand Bahama on June 13. Also pictured on this happy occasion were the Clergy from Grand Bahama from left: Deacon Donald Duncombe, Deacon Jeffrey Hollingsworth, Fr. Oswald Ferguson and Fr. David Cooper. A Mass of Thanksgiving was held at Mary, Star of The Sea Church on June 13, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Fr. Remy’s ordination.

12 St. Paul the Apostle Parish Hall St. Paul the Apostle Parish Hall has been officially renamed Rev. Monsignor Paul J. McManus Parish Centre, in honor of Msgr. Paul McManus, on occasion of 50th renamed for Msgr. Paul McManus anniversary of the parish church, March 18, 2018. A special Mass celebrated by Archbishop Patrick Pinder, was held at the church before the unveiling and blessing of the plaque. The Archbishop told parishioners who gathered to witness the renaming that the parish center was a result of Msgr. McManus' vision and the generosity of many parishioners, and that the parish now has a center for activities, a place where parishioners can come to know one another and give witness to their faith. Msgr. McManus served as pastor of St. Paul the Apostle from 1988 to 1998. New Prioress Appointed St. Martin Monastery The Benedictine Sisters at St. Martin Monastery elected Sister Marva Coakley, as prioress for a four-year term, on May 19, 2018 during Evening vespers. Sister Kerry O’Reilly, president of the Federation of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, Minnesota presided. One of Sister Marva’s main objectives as prioress is to go out in the communities and reach out to young women and enlighten them on all aspects of religious life. Seventeen Australian pilgrims visit The Bahamas to “follow the footsteps of Msgr. John Hawes” A group of pilgrims from Western Australia visited The Bahamas in May 2018 to “follow the footsteps of Msgr. John Hawes.” The group is pictured above, accompanied by Bishop Emeritus Justin Bianchini of the Diocese of Geraldton (who is just to the left of Archbishop Pinder). St. Augustine’s and St. Martin’s monasteries, The Hermitage (Cat Island) and Sts. Peter & Paul Church (Long Island) were among the historic sites visited by the Pilgrims. John C. Hawes, then an Anglican priest, architect and builder first came to The Bahamas in 1909, spending two years restoring churches on Long Island. He later converted to the Catholic faith, returning to the country in 1939, continuing his work in building. Monsignor Hawes died in 1956.

13 New crucifix installed at St. Francis Xavier Chapel A beautiful 4 foot 8 mahogany Crucifix, built by Randolph Sands was placed above the altar of St. Francis Chapel recently. Painted by artist Neko Meicholas, the images on the Crucifix depict Christ’s crucifix- ion, Saint Francis Xavier and Saint Therese of Lisieux, the Patron Saints of our Archdiocese, as well as the Holy Spirit. The back of the crucifix bears Archbishop Pinder’s coat of arms. Blessing & Unveiling of the Plaque for the Fr. Attilio Klinger, SBD, Computer Labs at Aquinas College Dedication of new Sanctuary at Church of On January 30, 2018 as invited guests arrived for the special dedication, the Aquinas College choir sang the melodious hymn “Every Praise’’. The opening line of the song, the Resurrection Parish ‘Every praise is to our God’, was suited to the occasion. There are a myriad of reasons why people give, including personal connections, tax breaks, altruism. From a religious With the completion of context, true stewardship calls us to realize that each of us is called to give to others its sanctuary renovation as God has given to us. project, The Church of the Resurrection Parish Fifty computers were donated by Mr. Dominic Sturrup, Class of 1990 and Senior Vice celebrated another President of Business Development, Bahamas Striping Group of Companies. An addi- milestone. It was the tional eighteen computers were donated by other Aquinas College alumni and friends second and most signif- of Aquinas College, namely: Bernadette Johnson, Angie Ao Lee, the Freeport Alumni icant phase of the proj- group, Class of 1977, Class of 1980 and the Class of 1997. The generous donations of ect. The new sacristy, these individuals have resulted in a state- of -the- art computer lab giving Aquinas gathering space and College students the opportunity to work with and learn about computers and soft- restrooms were com- ware, keeping them up-to-date alongside their peers both internationally and locally. pleted in October 2017. Top photo: Students and Mr. Jose Cecil Mango, Information Technology teacher are And on Sunday, June 17, 2018, Archbishop Patrick Pinder consecrated the new altar excited to use the new computers donated to the school. and blessed the refurbished sanctuary during the 8:30 a.m. Mass. The new mahogany wood altar has the unique feature of 12 nodules, which represent the 12 apostles. Similarly, on the ambo there are four nodules in front, representing the four Gospels; on its sides are three nodules that represent the Holy Trinity. All the furniture for the sanctu- ary was custom-made by Mr. Randolph Sands and described by the Archbishop as “a work of beauty for the glory of God.”

14 Lenten Mission 2018: Theme: “Our Vocation to be Missionary Disciples” The Catholics from parishes throughtout the Archdiocese began their Lenten journey 2018, reminded by Archbishop Patrick Pinder that the mission is an opportunity to gath- er to encourage, to support, and to affirm each other as we begin the Lenten journey. “...to use this occasion to open our hearts to the Word, as we begin this process we call Lent leading up to Easter. Our task is to open our hearts to the word proclaimed, and to focus on the theme of our call to be missionary disciples,” the Archbishop Pinder said. The City-wide Lenten Mission was held on February 19-23, 2018 at Loyola Hall. This year’s guest preacher was Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon, Archbishop of Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. His plainspoken, straight up, style left faithful with many things to ponder, as he challenged them to grow in faith and to commit to deepening their decision to follow Jesus for missionary discipleship. With the theme, “Our Vocation to be Missionary Disciples” — Archbishop Gordon asked parishioners whether they had made the decision to follow Jesus. He said the decision should not be half-hearted and that they should not zig-zag along the way. Seven young people represent The Bahamas at AEC Youth Conference On July 11, 2018, seven eager youths and three adult leaders left The Bahamas to join hundreds of their Caribbean Catholic brothers and sisters in Martinique for the 6th AECYA conference under the theme: “Youth Transforming the Caribbean Family”. The conference was held on July 10-23, 2018. This conference forms part of its 5- year plan for the renewal of family life in the Caribbean and continues to build on the foundation set at the 2015 conference, which was held in Antigua. Each (Arch) diocese was asked to prepare a presentation based on Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation: Amoris Laetitia to be shared at the conference. The Archdiocese of Nassau was responsible for preparing Chapter Eight of “Amoris Laetitia,” which focused on how the Church “accom- panies” divorced and/or separated Catholics through their journey – during and after their divorce and/or separation. UPCOMING YOUTH EVENTS Wednesday, January 16 - Theology on Tap Topic: Health & Holiness: Eating Right...Praying Right, Presenter: Fr. Anselm Russell, OSB Friday, January 25 - Get on the Bus at Sacred Heart

15 Sisters celebrate 60 & 50th anniversary of Monastic Profession Archbishop Pinder joined the Sisters of St. Martin Monastery on October 11, 2018 for Liturgy of The Hours. It was also a celebration of Sister Clare Rolle’s 60th and Sister Janice Coakley’s 50th anniversaries of Monastic Profession. Archbishop is pictured with the Sisters and Fr. Richard Cartwright, In-Residence Chaplain. Christmas After December 25th For many people, and perhaps even for us, Christmas seems to end on December birth to a male-child was considered unclean for seven days. Moreover, she was to 26th. remain for three and thirty days \"in the blood of her purification\"; for a female-child the time which was even doubled. When the time (forty or eighty days) was over, the With the shopping frenzy of Boxing Day week, the plans for the New Year’s Eve mother was to \"bring to the temple a lamb for a holocaust and a young pigeon or tur- party and the new Valentine's Day themed decorations in the malls, the true tle dove for sin\"; if she was not able to offer a lamb, she was to take two turtle doves Christmas season and its meaning quickly dissipates into memory. For many, all that is or two pigeons; the priest prayed for her and so she was cleansed. (Leviticus 12:2-8) left come January is the irritable state of mind we find ourselves in as we struggle to keep our New Year's Resolutions that were made with such fervor, just days before. So forty days after the birth of Christ, Mary would have complied with this precept of the law. She redeemed her first-born from the temple (Numbers 18:15), and was What happened to the genuine joy of the Christmas message? Have we actually for- purified by the prayer of Simeon the just, in the presence of Anna the prophetess. gotten that Christmas lasts beyond December 25th? And we know very well the rest of the story as presented in the Gospel of Luke 2:22. Perhaps now is a good time to remember the fact that the Christmas season truly lasts This is the reason why many Catholics practice the tradition of keeping out the long after December 25th, and until February when we celebrate the Feast of the Nativity creche or other Christmas decorations until this great feast day. It also Presentation of the Lord. This day is also known as Candlemas Day, since the bless- reminds us that Christmas does not end on the December 25th, despite what our sec- ing and procession of candles is included in that day's liturgy. ular world seduces us to believe. Every year, the feast lands on February 2nd, a full forty days after the birth of Christ. Admittedly, it is a constant struggle post December 25th, during the grind of our According to the 1962 Missal of St. John XXIII the Extraordinary Form of the daily lives to consciously remember that the period leading up to Christmas day and Roman Rite, that feast day is also referred to as the 'Purification of Mary,' which is for 40 days after it is in fact the second most important period of our Catholic faith. also considered a 'Christmas Feast Day,' since it points back to the Solemnity of To remember, to honour and to live the Christmas spirit in the middle of everyday Christmas. life is a struggle, we all need to wrestle with, perhaps taking it one day at a time. Why forty days of observance? And what is significant about the 'Purification of Taken from Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation website Mary?' Consider this interesting fact. According to the Mosaic law, a mother who has given

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