Bahama Catholic - April/May 2012

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS Sunday, April 29th, 2012 PRAY FOR AN INCREASE OF VOCATIONS THE NEWSPAPER OF THE CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF NASSAUMarch/April 2012 www.archdioceseofnassau.org

PAGe 2 Archbishop Pinder travels to Cuba for Holy Father’s visit Pope Benedict XVI recently concluded a apostolic trip to Mexico and Cuba from March 23 to 29, marking the 200th anniversary of the independence of Mexico and the 400th anniversary of the discovery of the image of the “Virgen de la Caridad Del Cobre” . Pope Benedict XVI met with Cuban President Raul Castro, Mexican President Felipe Calderon and bishops and Catholics from the region. He began his three-day visit in Cuba with a call for greater freedom and human rights, including increased liberty for the Catholic Church to proclaim the Gospel and serve the Cuban people. In Mexico, he had a special meeting with children and vespers with bishops from Latin America.Archbishop Pinder is pictured with Florida Bishop delegates in Cuba. -photo by Tom Tracy EASTER: “is our call to awaken Archbishopthe most noble aspects of our nature”We arrive at Easter by way of a 40 day journey we call Lent. Easter his death? We were indeed buried with Lent and the call to live in Speaks is the center of our Liturgical cal- him through baptism into death, so that, the newness of life at the just as Christ was raised from the dead by start of the Easter seasonendar. The Celebration of Easter brings us the glory of the Father, we too might live in remind us who we areback to the foundation of our faith. It takes the newness of life.” (Romans 6: 3-4) and what we are to beus back to how it all began. It is essential Continuing that same thought, the second doing. Paul reminds usfor us to return to this Feast each year to that we are to be dead toremember what it is that we believe and reading for Easter Sunday which is taken sin and alive for God in Archbi shop Patri ck C. Pi nder, S TD, CMGwhy we believe it. We return to the very from Colossians says this: Christ Jesus. (Romanssource of the strength and the hope that is “If then you were raised with Christ, seek 6:11) where Christ is seated at God’s right hand.within us. what is above, where Christ is seated at the Think of what is above…” (Colossians 3:1- right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1) From time to time we all find ourselves on 4)From the liturgy of Easter Sunday we have intimate terms with sin in one form orwords from the Acts of Apostles where Living in the newness of life and seeking another. We need to remember that sin has Our task is to affect those around us for thePeter reports how: what is above indicates life in the light of personal consequences for us. More than good always. In that way we build our the resurrection. that, living in a community as we all do, community. In that way we make ourJesus “...went about doing good and heal- sin has social consequences as well. Our community better for us all. The founda-ing all those oppressed by the devil for Let us remember that at the selfishness, our dishonesty, our unfaithful- tion for our values our meanings our hopeGod was with him. .... They put him to beginning of Lent, in our preparation for ness and our prejudice all have conse- and our community building is our Easterdeath by hanging him on a tree. Yet.... Easter we were invited to undertake a jour- quences which reach beyond us. These faith.“God raised him on the third day....” consequences have effects within the com-(Acts10:37ff) ney of conversion. The words of the munity in which we live. Indeed they Easter continues our call to conversion. It Prophet Joel from Ash Wednesday were impact the quality of our life together. is our call to goodness. It is our call toThat is a basic, fundamental even primi- very striking and very instructive as well. When we steal someone has to pay for it. awaken the most noble aspects of ourtive expression of our Christian faith. It is It is well for us to keep them in mind. The If we are rude and disrespectful, someone nature. The Easter proclamation declares:the bedrock upon which we place all our Prophet says to us: is offended by it. Indeed, our sinful “Jesus Christ our King is risen!” With himhope. It is the foundation upon which we actions have effects beyond ourselves. rose all our hope. With him rose our desirebuild all our values. It is the cornerstone “Even now, says the Lord, return to carry on despite all the distractions andfor all the meaning and purpose and moti- to me with your whole heart, with fasting, Likewise, the good we do has effects disappointments and doubt which mayvation for good that is ours in this life. It is and weeping and mourning. Rend your beyond our selves. An act of kindness, a encircle us in the course of any given day.the source of the expectation we have for hearts, not your garments, and return to word of encouragement or challenge orthe fullness of life of which only hints and the Lord, your God. For gracious is he, even rebuke when necessary may each The Easter Season lasts for fifty days, untilshadows are ours in this mortal existence. slow to anger, rich in kindness and relent- have an effect beyond our expectations. the Feast of Pentecost. Easter is, above allAt Easter, we celebrate what Peter was ing in punishment. Perhaps he will again The bad and the good in us affect those else a joyful season.speaking about when he says “God raised relent and leave behind him a blessing.” around us.Him on the third day.” We celebrate the (Joel 2:12-14a) We are reminded on this very special feast To grasp that is to grasp what the gospelresurrection of Jesus from the dead. that: We were indeed buried with [Christ] refers to when it says that Christ our life “Rend your hearts, not your garments” though baptism in his death, so that, just as our light and our hope, rose from the dead.We share in that resurrection by our very says Joel. These words echo those of the Christ was raised from the dead by the May the newness of life which Easterown baptism. Sharing in the death and First Book of Samuel which says: “Not as glory of the Father, we too might live in the announces come to abide in our hearts andresurrection of Jesus Christ is the way we man sees does God see, because man sees newness of life.” (Romans 6:3-11) from there influence our lives, our commu-understand our baptism. As St Paul says: the appearance but the Lord looks into the nity and our world. heart.” (I Samuel 16:7)“Are you unaware that we who were bap- Again we are reminded: “If then you were Happy Easter!tized into Christ Jesus were baptized into The call to conversion at the beginning of raised with Christ, seek what is above,

PAGe 3AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESERite of Election welcomes Becoming Catholic is one of life’s most profound and joyful experiences. On February 26th,20 new members twelve catechumens and eight candidates gathered along with their godparents and family for The Rite of Election at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral where they affirmed their desire to enter the Church. The Rite of Election is celebrated on the first Sunday of Lent. Mrs. Floridell Adderley, co-coordina- tor of the RCIA programme read aloud the names of the catechumens who came forward, along with their godparents, and stood in the front of Archbishop, the main celebrant of the Rite of Election. The godparents were asked to affirm that the catechumens have listened to the Word of God, responded to it and have gathered in prayer with the Catholic Church. Then the twelve were then asked to approach the altar and sign the Book of Elect. Next, the eight candidates were called forward, with their sponsors. The sponsors also affirmed that they have been studying the Catholic faith and reflected upon it. They went on to become fully initiated members of the Church at the Easter Vigil on April 8th at their parish. Bernard Persaud was among this group. Persaud, who grew up in the Jehovah Witness faith says he credits his wife’s (a Catholic) faith, motivation and determination for this day. He added, “It was important for us to worship together as a family.’’ Noting that he often visited Church of the Resurrection parish and always felt welcomed, but a bit “incomplete” - I now know the meaning of the symbols, why we do certain things and the biblical meanings. More important- ly, what to do during the Mass.” However, the highlight of the Rite of Election was actually signing the Book of Elect, Persaud says, “I was so excited!” The following text is Archibshop’s Homily from the Rite of Election on February 26th, 2012 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Mark 1: 12-15 “Even now, says the Lord, Return to me with your whole heart, With fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, And return to the Lord your God.” (Joel 2: 12-13)Archbishop Pinder walk towards Baptismal font with Book of Elect. Darcy These words you recognize as words of the Prophet Joel. They form a part of the first reading forLewis is pictured at right. Ask Wednesday. “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1: 15) These are the words of Jesus drawn from the Gospel for this first Sunday of Lent -Continued on page 4Catechumens, Twana Lockhard-McPhee of St Anselm (left photo) sponsor Insa Frith and Bernard Persaud and Miss Jeanette Davis, sponsor of Church of TheResurrection signs Book of Elect at the Rite of Election.

PAGe 4Rite of Election welcomes It enables the discipline of end as we begin the Easter Triduum with Mass of the Christ to control the appetites Lord’s Supper, on the evening of Holy Thursday. of nature, weakened by orig-20 new members The Ashes with which we will begin these 40 days, remind inal sin, whose negative us that we are mortal. We will die. “Remember that you are effects impact the entire dust and to dust you shall return.” The Ashes also reminds human person. us that we are prepare for that days being fully aware that in Baptism we die with Christ to rise with him to the new-From page 3 The Holy Father seeks to ness of life, to the fullness of life. keep our enthusiasm in proper perspective and to ensure From now till Pentecost is the richest period of our Liturgical Calendar. As you continue to prepare for Easter, that we do not perform religious acts only to be seen. He along the way, in your parish, you will experience threeWith these words of Joel and Jesus to orient us, the church says that fasting is an aid to open our eyes to the conditions Scrutinies. You will also be presented with the Our Fatherinvites us to embrace this adventure we call lent. Lent is of others around us. It enables us to grow in the spirit of the and the Creed.cast as a journey of 40 days, a journey in the image of the Good Samaritan by embracing acts of self denial for theExodus. It is a journey of personal renewal which brings us good of those whose basic needs are so much greater than I urge you to be present, here in this Cathedral, for thecloser to God, deeper into holiness and further and further our own. Chrism Mass where I will bless the Holy Oils used in youraway from our own sinfulness. Baptism and Confirmation this Easter. Finally, before the So he brings together fasting and almsgiving which togeth- Easter Season concludes at the Feast of Pentecost, we willLent is also a period of preparation for Easter. The 40 days er with prayer complete the three aspect of our discipline of gather here once more for the Mass of the Neophytes.of Lent are seen as having their root in the 40 days Jesus penance. Again the Church invites us to embrace this jour-spent in the desert preparing for his public life and ulti- ney and adventure of Lent for our good and for our salva- As we continue our Lenten journey and adventure, I invitemately for his crucifixion and glorification. you to join the entire church in hearing those words of Joel tion. and those words of Jesus which are intended to orient usOn this journey and adventure of Lent, the Church advises Lent is most importantly a period of preparation for during these weeks of Lent before us. May this be a time ofus to use the traditional practices of penance, namely Baptism. In that regard we have gathered here today. In true spiritual renewal for us all.prayer, fasting and almsgiving. cathedrals around the world, on this First Sunday of Lent, In particular, Catechumens and Candidates, during thisSo during these weeks of Lent we are encouraged to put the faithful, including catechumens and candidates, gather Lenten season may you be granted the grace to arrive at thegreater emphasis on our prayer life. Many express this by around their bishop to celebrate the Rite of Election. font of Baptism and to receive the Oil of Chrism with heartincluding daily mass attendance as a part of their Lenten Catechumens join their communities each Sunday but only and mind enlightened and renewed.discipline. To that we may add daily, prayerful reading of for the Liturgy of the Word after which they withdraw toscriptures. It need not be more than ten minutes each day. pray and reflect on the words of scripture proclaimed. I take the liberty to repeat here the “Prayer Over theTake up and reflect on the readings of the day, each day, this When the time approaches for their full initiation into the People” which concluded today’s Mass:Lent and you will discover how for the first half of the life of the church, they are presented to the Bishop as you “May bountiful blessing, O lord, we pray,Lenten season, from now until Saturday of the third week are today. Come down upon your people,of Lent, the scriptures emphasize the need for conversion in That Hope may grow in tribulation, Virtue be strengthened in temptation,our lives. You will come and inscribe your names in the Book of the And eternal redemption be assured.After that the theme shifts to Mystery of Jesus Christ, Son Elect. What is the meaning of your the Book of the Elect? It To that end, may God bless you as we now continue thisof God, who is healer and life giver. He it is who gives life is your public declaration that you intend to live as one Rite of Election.through his confrontation with death. who follows Christ. You will now be referred to as the ElectThis then is the season to expand our prayer life, to increase and you will now enter the stage of your formation knownour daily mass attendance and to make time for and spend as the Period of Purification and Enrichment.time with the Lord in Sacred Scriptures.The Holy Father, Benedict XVI, explains how the discipline The whole church continues to pray for you. The churchof fasting has had its place in the entire history of salvation prays for both you the Elect and the Candidates who willfrom the creation, through the patriarchs and prophets, in also accompany you this Easter as they too complete theirthe life of Jesus and right down to our time. initiation into the Church.He says that fasting represents an important spiritual armto do battle against every possible sinful inclination of ours. The season of Lent which began with Ash Wednesday willThe Legion of Mary hosts Acies ceremonyThe Legion of Mary held its Acies on March 25 at St. Joseph’sChurch. Acies is a Church function, which is held annuallyabout the Feast of the Annunciation for the members to renewtheir consecration to Mary. Devotion to Mary is important inthe Legion system, and each year there is a consecration oflegionaries to Our Lady.The consecration, According to the Legion of Mary Handbook:– comprises both an individual and a collective consecration.The Acies is the great central annual function of the Legion, sothat it is necessary to stress the importance of attendance onthe part of every member. The essential idea of the Legion,upon which all else is built, is that of working in union withand in dependence on Mary, its Queen. Acies is the solemnexpression of that union and dependence, the renewal-indi-vidual and collective-of the legionary declaration of fealty. Members around The Legion of Mary Altar

PAGe 5WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS April 29th, 2012 (fourth Sunday of Easter) Theme: Vocations, the Gift of the Love of GodPope Paul VI instituted the World Day of Prayer for Vocations on the 11 April 1964 by saying:“O Jesus, divine Shepherd of the spirit, you have called the Apostles in order to make them fishermen of men,you still attract to you burning spirits and generous young people, in order to render them your followers andministers to us” (Pope Paul VI )In the years since, successive pontiffs have called on the Church to focus and pray for vocations. Prayer and pro-motion of vocations takes place on a daily basis here in Ireland but in a particular way on Vocations Sundaywhich this year falls on Sunday 29 April, the Fourth Sunday of Easter.The Pope issues a message for Vocations Sunday each year and the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for thisyear’s celebration is: Vocations, the Gift of the Love of God. In his message Pope Benedict says: “It is in this soilof self-offering and openness to the love of God, and as the fruit of that love, that all vocations are born andgrow. By drawing from this wellspring through prayer, constant recourse to God’s word and to the sacraments,especially the Eucharist, it becomes possible to live a life of love for our neighbours, in whom we come to per-ceive the face of Christ the Lord (cf. Mt 25:31-4)Vocation Prayer:Lord Jesus, you said to your disciples: “The harvest indeed is great but the labourersare few.” We ask that we may know and follow the vocation to which you have calledus. We pray for those called to serve: those whom you have called, those you are call-ing now, and those you will call in the future. May they be open and responsive to thecall of serving your people. Amen.

PAGe 6 A reflection on The Creed Pt. 2 Know YourFaith fering was but a make believe-when in reality they ential of those heresies was Marcionism. Marcion By Fr Kendrick Forbes themselves are make believers-then why am I in chains? insisted on a radial break with Judaism. He considered Pastor, St. Paul The Apostle Why do I even pray that I may fight with the beast? In matter to be evil and spirit good. For Marcion, there vain, then, do I die? My testimony is, after all, but a were 2 Gods, the evil God of the Old Testament whoINTRODUCTION lie about the Lord! Shun these wildlings, then, which formed the material world and Jesus, the spiritual God began but deadly fruit, and when one taste it, he is out- who liberated humanity from the bond of material exis-In the first article, I focused on the New Testament ori- right doomed to die. From Eucharist and prayer they tence. Justin strongly opposed this dualism of Marciongins of the creed. I highlighted the relationship between hold aloof, because they do not confess suffering for our and in his creedal statement rejects dualism. The onethe S hema and the creed and three titles that the New sins and which the Father in His loving-kindness raised God is “maker and fashioner.” Justin insisted that thereTestament accords to Jesus that are fundamental to from the dead. And so, those who question the gift of is not two gods, but one God who created all.understanding the creed. In this article, I will focus on God perish in their contentiousness. It would be betterseveral second and third century developments. for them to have love, so as to share in the resurrection. Hi ppol ytus of Rome It is proper, therefore, to avoid associating, with suchBy the turn of the second century there is evidence of the people and not to speak about them either in private or A final example of a creedal formula of the second cen-emergence of brief professions of faith. Although in public, but to study the prophets attentively and tury is found in Hippolytus’ short treatise against thediverse in their expression, these professions of faith especially the Gospel, in which the Passion is revealed heresy of Noetus, probably written between 200 andreveal a movement toward a standardize creed. Even to us and the Resurrection shown in its fulfillment 236. Noetus was among several proponents of the doc-though the professions of faith reflect diversity regarding (Quasten 65-66). trine referred to as Patripassian doctrines. These doc-local concerns, their areas of agreements center on key trines denied any distinction between God the Father andelements of Jesus’ story contained in the New The A pol ogy of Justi n Martyr God the Son (Christ). The key tenet of the doctrines isTestam ent. that it was God the Father who in the Incarnation was Another example of creedal formulas of the second cen- born, suffered, and died. Noetus claimed that the pro-My aim in this second article is to focus on second and tury is found in Justin Martyr’s Apology. Justin defend- logue of John’s gospel was purely allegorical. Thethird century developments that were critical steps ed Christianity to the Roman emperor. In doing so, he priests of Smyrna, who stressed the distinction betweentowards the development of the creed. Given the scope advanced a description of the manner of Christian bap- Father and Son, refuted Noetus’ blending of the Fatherof this project, I will limit my reflection to three creedal tism as practiced in the second century. He wrote: and Son: “We too know in truth one God. We knowformulas of the second century and a brief examination [Those who] “are persuaded and believe that what we Christ. We know that the son suffered even as he suf-of two influential theologians of the second century. teach and say is true, and undertake to live accordingly fered, and died even as he died, and rose again on the [receive baptism] in the name of God, the Father and third day, and is at the right hand of the Father, and comeWri ti ngs of Ignati us of Anti och Lord of the universe, and of our Savior Jesus Christ, and to judge the living and the dead. And these things we of the Holy Spirit.” The passage from Justin’s defense have learned we alleged.”An example of a creedal formula of the second century is important because it reveals the connection betweenis found in the writings of Ignatius of Antioch. On his the profession of faith and baptism. The classical Prel i mi nary Concl usi onway to martyrdom in Rome, Ignatius composed several Christian creed emerged out of the baptismal rites of theletters. Five of those letters were addressed to various early church. The aforementioned creedal formulas are diverse in formcommunities, Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Philadelphia and function. The common thread, however, is thatand Smyrna. All of Ignatius’ letters are of inestimable Another excerpt is an account of the trial of Justin and they developed in response to improper or deviant under-Christological value. Ignatius was a staunch defender his companions before the Roman Prefect. When ques- standings of the Christian narrative. The aim of the for-ofthe divinity and humanity of Christ. In his letter to tioned as to the nature of the doctrine he professed, mulas was to advance and defend a correct understandingthe community at Smyrna he wrote: Justin responded: of the faith.There is only one physician both carnal and spiritual, That according to which we worship the God of the The need to respond to deviant understandings of theborn and unborn, God become man, true life in death, Christians, whom we reckon to be one from the begin- Christian story would give rise to a more concertedsprung from Mary and from God, first subject to suffer ning, the maker and fashioner of the whole creation, push to create a norm by which to measure correct andand then incapable of it-Jesus Christ our Lord. He is visible and invisible; and the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son false doctrine. Two major factors toward the end of thereally of the line of David according to the flesh and the of God, who had also been preached beforehand by the second century and the beginning of the third centurySon of God by the will and power of God, was really prophets as about to be present with the race of men, would accelerate this process. The first was the need toborn of a virgin and baptized by John in order to com- the herald of salvation and teacher of good disciples.” create more uniformity and coherence amongply with every ordinance (Translation taken from Christianity’s many local communities. The secondPatrology by Johannes Quasten). At the time of Justin, debate between Judaism and was the increasing challenge of Gnosticism. Deep Christianity revolved around a correct understanding of internal divide regarding the very nature of salvationIgnatius targeted the heresy known as Docetism. the Old Testament prophets and whether the writings of intensified the push toward a norm to measure ortho-Docetists were those who denied the humanity of the prophets were a foreshadowing of Christ. Justin’s doxy.Christ. Their fundamental claim was that Jesus did not assertion is that God, the maker and fashioner of cre-share fully and physically in the human condition. In ation and Jesus Christ is one and the same: “The God Continued on page 7opposition to the Docetists Ignatius wrote: of the Christians whom we reckon to be one from the beginning.”But if as some atheists, that is unbelievers, say, his suf- By the middle of the second century, dualistic heresies began to emerge in Christianity. One of the more influ-

PAGe 7 from page 6 The Creed Pt. 2 THeOLOGIANS OF THe to him, and that he should pronounce a just judgment crucified, and on the third day rose again; being raised upon all and dismiss the spirits of wickedness and the to the heavens, He sat at the right hand of the Father; S eCOND AND THIRD CeNTURY angels who transgressed and became apostates, and the He sent in His place the power of the Holy Spirit to ungodly, unrighteous, lawless and profane, into ever- guide believers. He will come in glory to take theTheologians such as Ireneaus and Tertullian, among lasting fire, but in his graciousness should confer life saints to the enjoyment of life eternal and of the heav-others, would meet the challenge of Gnosticism. In and the reward of incorruption and eternal glory upon enly promises, and to condemn the wicked to everlast-the works of these two great theologians we see how those who have kept his commandments and have abid- ing fire, after the resurrection of both has taken placethe move towards the development of the creed takes ed in his love either from the beginning of their life or together with the restoration of their flesh (Quasten,shape. The impetus for such development was the since their repentance (Quasten, Volume I, 300). 324).challenge to the Christian narrative and identity pre-sented by heretical approaches to the faith. In this sec- Tertul l i an The close resemblance of both texts in content andtion of the project, we will examine two influential even wording suggests an underlying creed-like sum-theologians, Irenaeus and Tertullian. Another great theologian of the second century was the mary of the faith, which corresponds to earlier bap- North African teacher Tertullian. Tertullian was a tismal formulas. Towards the end of the second centu-Irenaeus native of Carthage and born around 155 A.D. The year ry and at the beginning of the third century a standard of Tertullian’s death is not certain but estimated to be form of the profession of faith emerges.Irenaeus is a prime example of the orthodox response around 220 A.D. He and Augustine were perhaps twoto Gnosticism. Around 180 CE (Common Era) of the most important Latin Church fathers. Tertullian Ori genIrenaeus wrote Against Heresies. This work was a produced a number of works. In several of them herefutation of Marcion and a number of Gnostic teach- makes reference to a Rule of Faith, Regula Fidei. The Any examination of influential second and third centu-ers. Irenaeus was perhaps the most important theolo- rule of faith was the canon by which genuine believers ry theologians would be incomplete without mentiongian of the second century. Only two of his many live and against which the heresies of false teachers of Origen of Alexandria. Origen was one ofworks, which were composed in his native Greek, are could be measured. According to Tertullian, The Rule Christianity’s early biblical interpreters and theolo-still in existence. Against Heresies or Adversus of Faith derived from the Apostles and was faithfully gians. His most famous work was On First Principle.Haereses is perhaps Irenaeus’ main work. The treatise handed down in the Church. We find a description of Origen is often associated with philosophical specula-comprises 2 sections. The first section deals with the the rule of faith in Tertullian’s work “Veiling of tion, and as a result some of his positions were con-refutation of Gnosticism and the second section contin- Virgins” (De virginibus velandis) and in De praescrip- demned as heretical. Like Tertullian, Origen makesues on that path while addressing issues like resurrec- tione haereticorum (The Prescription of Heretics). For reference to a rule of faith without employing the term.tion of the body and sayings of the Lord. Tertullian, the “creed” was a summation of the teach- He indicates that scripture and tradition are the sources ing of the Church and it was not only a rule of faith of Christian doctrine.Ireneaus’ great work begins with his assertion that but also a law of faith, lex fidei. In Veiling of Virginsonly the Church founded by the Apostles can be relied Tertullian describes it as follows: CONCLUS IONupon for the correct understanding of the faith. Heasserts that the teaching of the Apostles is the source The rule of faith, indeed, is altogether one, alone By examining several creedal formulas and theologiansand the norm of faith. It is the faith received from the immovable and irreformable; the rule, to wit, of my intent is to demonstrate that the creed did not sud-Apostles and their disciples that is the norm for ortho- believing in one only God omnipotent, the Creator of denly appear in history. The articles of the creed weredoxy. In Ireneaus’ description of the faith of the the universe, and His Son Jesus Christ, born of the present from the beginning. The creed would takeChurch we find similarities to the creedal formulas pre- Virgin Mary, crucified under Pontius Pilate, raised shape from the efforts to defend the faith and summa-viously mentioned. Ireneaus writes: again the third day from the dead, received in the heav- rize the Christian story. In speaking about the creed, ens, sitting now at the right hand of the Father, des- Luke Timothy Johnson wrote these words:The Church although scattered over the whole world tined to come to judge the living and the dead througheven to its extremities, received from the Apostles and the resurrection of the flesh (Quasten, 323). It has been there from the first moments of self-defini-their disciples the faith in one God, the Father tion, from the first impulse to articulate experience,Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, the seas and all A longer reference to the rule of faith is found in The from the first effort to defend against distortion, fromthat is in them, and in one Christ Jesus, the Son of Prescription of Heretics. the first attempt to summarize the story by which thisGod, who became incarnate for our salvation, and in new thing in the world claimed at once to be the peo-the Holy Spirit, who by the prophets proclaimed the Now the rule of faith is unquestionably that wherein ple of the one God, yet touched more profoundly anddispensation, the advent, the virgin birth, the passion our belief is affirmed that there is but one God, who is intimately by God than humans ever before imagined,and resurrection from the dead, the bodily ascension of none other than the Creator of the world; it is He who in the flesh of Jesus, in the Spirit of the risen Lord.the well-beloved Christ Jesus Our Lord into heaven, produced all things out of nothing through His Wordand his parousia (advent) from the heavens in the glory emitted before all things. This Word is called His Son. In the next article we will survey the immediate devel-of the Father to gather up all things in himself and to In the name of God He was seen under various forms opments that gave rise to the Nicene-raise the flesh of all mankind to life, in order that by the patriarchs, was ever heard in the prophets and Constantinopolitan Creed and begin a reflection on theeverything in heaven and in earth and under the earth lastly descended by the Spirit and Power of God the articles of the Creed.should bow the knee to Christ Jesus our Lord and God, Father into the Virgin Mary, became flesh in herour Savior and our King, according to the will of the womb, and being born of her, lived as Jesus Christ.invisible Father, and that every tongue should confess Then He preached a new law and the new promise of the kingdom of heaven. He performed miracles, was

PAGe 8 Youth Office hosts day of Renewal for confirmation studentsPictured are: (from left to right) Jay Cartwright; Lloydeka Minnis from Fresh Creek; Fr. Knurek; Sanchez Bowleg, Jay Cartwright, Director of Youth & YoungMakisha Cargill and Maquel Canter, all from Cargill Creek; Kirk Bain, from Mastic Point; Mrs. Virginia Tremblay and Adult Ministry for the Archdiocese, joined(kneeling) Deacon Frank Tremblay. Deacon Frank Tremblay and his wife Virginia for the second day-long program for the Catholic community on Central and North Andros. Building on the first session in the Fall, this session explored what becoming a disciple of Jesus means and how, as adult Catholics, the decisions we make show that we are Christians. Using games, videos, and discussion, Jay worked with Deacon Tremblay and Virginia to make this a special day for the teens. Joining the session in the afternoon, visiting priest Fr. Dennis Knurek heard confession and then said Mass at the Fr. Gabriel Roerig OSB, Parish Center in Calabash Bay. Pope to Youth: Be Missionaries of Joy!The following is a message of Holiness Pope Benedict XVI is a time of openness to the future and of great longing for if this does not seem immediately obvious. This is becausefor the twenty-seventh World Youth Day 2012. happiness, friendship, sharing and truth, a time when we God is a communion of eternal love, he is infinite joy that are moved by high ideals and make great plans. does not remain closed in on itself, but expands to embrace “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Phil 4:4) all whom God loves and who love him. God created us in Each day is filled with countless simple joys which are the his image out of love, in order to shower his love upon usDear young friends, Lord’s gift: the joy of living, the joy of seeing nature’s beau- and to fill us with his presence and grace. God wants us to ty, the joy of a job well done, the joy of helping others, the share in his own divine and eternal joy, and he helps us toI am happy to address you once more on the occasion of joy of sincere and pure love. If we look carefully, we can see see that the deepest meaning and value of our lives lie inthe 27th World Youth Day. The memory of our meeting in many other reasons to rejoice. There are the happy times in being accepted, welcomed and loved by him. Whereas weMadrid last August remains close to my heart. It was a time family life, shared friendship, the discovery of our talents, sometimes find it hard to accept others, God offers us anof extraordinary grace when God showered his blessings our successes, the compliments we receive from others, the unconditional acceptance which enables us to say: “I amon the young people gathered from all over the world. I ability to express ourselves and to know that we are under- loved; I have a place in the world and in history; I am per-give thanks to God for all the fruits which that event bore, stood, and the feeling of being of help to others. There is sonally loved by God. If God accepts me and loves me andfruits which will surely multiply for young people and also the excitement of learning new things, seeing new and I am sure of this, then I know clearly and with certaintytheir communities in the future. Now we are looking for- broader horizons open up through our travels and encoun- that it is a good thing that I am alive”.ward to our next meeting in Rio de Janeiro in 2013, whose ters, and realizing the possibilities we have for charting ourtheme will be: “Go and make disciples of all nations!” (cf. future. We might also mention the experience of reading a God’s infinite love for each of us is fully seen in JesusMt 28:19). great work of literature, of admiring a masterpiece of art, of Christ. The joy we are searching for is to be found in him.This year’s World Youth Day theme comes from Saint listening to or playing music, or of watching a film. All We see in the Gospel how the events at the beginning ofPaul’s exhortation in his Letter to the Philippians: “Rejoice these things can bring us real joy. Jesus’ life are marked by joy. When the Archangel Gabrielin the Lord always” (4:4). Joy is at the heart of Christian tells the Virgin Mary that she is to be the mother of theexperience. At each World Youth Day we experience Yet each day we also face any number of difficulties. Deep Saviour, his first word is “Rejoice!” (Lk 1:28). When Jesus isimmense joy, the joy of communion, the joy of being down we also worry about the future; we begin to wonder born, the angel of the Lord says to the shepherds: “Behold,Christian, the joy of faith. This is one of the marks of these if the full and lasting joy for which we long might be an I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for allgatherings. We can see the great attraction that joy exercis- illusion and an escape from reality. Many young people ask the people. For today in the city of David a Saviour hases. In a world of sorrow and anxiety, joy is an important themselves: is perfect joy really possible? The quest for joy been born for you, who is Messiah and Lord” (Lk 2:10-11).witness to the beauty and reliability of the Christian faith. can follow various paths, and some of these turn out to be When the Magi came in search of the child, “they were mistaken, if not dangerous. How can we distinguish things overjoyed at seeing the star” (Mt 2:10). The cause of all this1. Our hearts are made for joy that give real and lasting joy from immediate and illusory joy is the closeness of God who became one of us. This is pleasures? How can we find true joy in life, a joy that what Saint Paul means when he writes to the Philippians:A yearning for joy lurks within the heart of every man and endures and does not forsake us at moments of difficulty? “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!woman. Far more than immediate and fleeting feelings of Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near”satisfaction, our hearts seek a perfect, full and lasting joy 2. God is the source of true joy (Phil 4:4-5). Our first reason for joy is the closeness of thecapable of giving “flavour” to our existence. This is partic- Lord, who welcomes me and loves me.ularly true for you, because youth is a time of continuous Whatever brings us true joy, whether the small joys of eachdiscovery of life, of the world, of others and of ourselves. It day or the greatest joys in life, has its source in God, even - Continued on page 15

PAGe 9

PAGe10 ASH WEDNESDAY Lenten Mission - guest preacher, Dr. Philip Chircop, SJ, CHRISM gave a five night mission under the theme, “Near Occasion of Grace - amphora of we now interrupt our regular programming” . are also ble the adminis Bottom photo - Fr. Eugene Hensell, O.S.B, speaker at the annual mid- holy orders day Lenten reflections with Monsignor Preston Moss. This year’s trop- es, altars, c ic was “The Passion according to the Gospel of John”Ash Wednesday - ashes are imposed on the Palm Sundayforeheads of the faithfulI marking the beginning of six Young parishionersand a half weeks of repentance, fasting and absti- from St. Paul Thenence in preparation for Easter. Vanessa Miller is pic- Apostle Churchtured receiving ashes. after Palm Sunday Mass. Parishioners at The Cathedral choose palm leaves before the Mass. Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.

• LENT • EASTER PAGe11 MASS - Archbishop blows over anf Holy Oil at Chrism Mass. The oilsessed by the Archbisop and used instration of baptism, confirmation ands, and in the consecration of church-chalices and patens. STATIONS OF CROSS - Students of Mary Star, of The Sea School reenacted the Stations of the Cross during Holy Week. EASTER VIGIL - As darkness fell parishioners of St. Paul the Apostle Church gathered outside for the start of the Easter Vigil. The Easter Vigil begins with a Service of Light, which includes the blessing of the Easter fire and the Paschal Candle. Fr. Kendrick Forbes is pictured blessing the Easter fire. The Paschal candle will be used throughout the season of Easter, remaining in the sanctuary of the church or near the lectern, and throughout the coming year at baptisms and funerals, reminding all that Christ is \"light and life.\"

PAGe 12 Twenty women honoured by St. Francis Women’s AuxiliarySt. Francis Women’s Auxiliary recently The sodality made its first appearance at the hosted its second annual Festival of Annual May Procession where they wore all Tables luncheon honoring 20 devoted white.Catholic woman who have made outstanding The purpose of the group is to encouragecontributions in our community. Catholic Women to be of service to the Church, the community and to be witnesses ofThis year’s 20 honoree were: Sister Mary God and the Catholic faith. St. Francis XavierBenedict, OSB, Annie Thompson, Cecilia Auxiliary is the oldest group in the Diocese.Albury, Jacinta Neely, Floridell Adderley,Patricia Coakley, Elma Garraway, Patricia Nurse Monica Davis was the group'sEllix, Winfred Roberts, Eloise Archer, Wendy President who was assisted by the youngestCraigg, Mary Mortimer, Angela Fox, member of the group by the name BlancheBernadette Godet, Karen Lightbourne, Butler. Later the group changed its name fromAbagail Charlow, Sonia Cox, Pattie Sodality to the Ladies Guild, a name they car-Symonette, Marica Collie, Catherine Brown, ried for many years. It should be noted thatand Juanita Johnson. Nurse Monica Davis served the Guild for 32 years.“These women are truly role models for theyounger women of our society,” says Diane The group assisted in forming similar groupsDean, SFWA president . at sister parishes in Nassau. The guild attend- ed monthly masses, held regular meetings -The History of the Ladies Auxiliary Ministry - and assisted with taking care of the altar, church grounds and bazaars by hosting cakeThe motto of the Auxiliary is \"Women Serving sales, cook-outs, Lenten and other seasonalGod, the Church and the Community.\" In tea parties and fashion shows.1950, the late Amy Burnside (mother of RuthBurnside-Symonette) of Delancy Street visited The Ladies Guild creates yearly calendars forMiami, Florida where she was introduced to a church visitation and fellowship. Each monthgroup of Catholic Women who served the the Guild visits a sister Parish starting withchurch as their main function, assisting in the mother church St. Francis Xavier inevery area possible. January.Mrs. Burnside was so impressed that shebrought the idea home to her Cathedral Membership is open to females members ofParish of St. Francis Xavier. She formed a sim- the Parish who are eighteen years and older.ilar group which adopted the name sodality.

PAGe 13

PAGe 14 Chancery office host health education Seminar Members of the Clergy, Deacons, members of the Archdiocesan insurance committee and Chancery office staff recently attended a one-day health edu- cation seminar. Pictured at left is, Nutritionist, Patti Symonette chating during a break with Fr. Paschal Ukpeh, and Fr. Gabriel Gomerep . In her presentation, Dr. Symonette urged the group to take charge of their health and listen to our bodies. She also noted that food is the best medicine, its the least expensive, most effective and has the fewest side effects. Bottom photo: Mr. John Dunkley, (at podium), member of Insurance sub-committee, seated, Jeanine Lampkin, Gerald Strachan, Archbishop Pinder and Herbert Newbold.Chancery staff member, Sheniqua Adderley having her blood pres- “View your health as top priorty”sure taken. Bottom photo: Fr. Saju Vadakumpadan CMI, Steephen says, Dr. Kirkland Culmer, medicalKoola, CMI, and Deacon Patrick Darville took advantage of director for Bahama Health. Dr.health pamplets at resource table. Culmer also urged the group to take full advantage of annuals and regu- lar check-up. Bottom photo: Mrs. Anya Smith, Bahama Health repre- sentative spoke on the benefits and changes at Bahama Health.

PAGe 15Retired and Elderly Lenten Reflection DayTheme: “The Lord Is With Me,Like A Mighty Champion”The annual Lenten Reflection Day for the Retired and the Elderly was held on Friday, activity was Stations of the Cross led by team March 30, 2012 at Emmaus Centre, Fox Hill. members and participants. The Stations usedThe theme for this Family Life sponsored event were those prepared by Pope John Paul II inwas: “The Lord Is With Me, Like A Mighty 1991when he celebrated the Way of the Cross dur- ing Holy Week at the Coliseum in Rome.Champion” … Jeremiah 20:11. Nighty-two per-sons from a cross-section of New Providence The group then shared in a delicious meal.Parishes embraced the opportunity to reflect on Following this was soft singing, praying theJesus’ redeeming love for all of humanity. Rosary and Confessions. The day concluded with Mass celebrated by Fr. Noel Clarke. It was aThe day began with morning prayers and this peaceful and reflective day enjoyed by all whowas followed by an inspiring talk and reflective attended.discussion led by Mrs. Anna Smith. The next The Men’s Group program is ongoing. This 26 week treatment program is for men who abuse their partners. Please contact the Archdiocesan Office of Family Life for more information. Telephone- 322-8919 or 328-4310/2.Pope to Youth: Be Missionaries of Joy!From page 8 One and he will remain with us until the end of the world (cf. Mt God will never abandon you. Turn your eyes to him often. He 28:20). Evil does not have the last word in our lives; rather, faith in gave his life for you on the cross because he loves you.An encounter with Jesus always gives rise to immense inner joy. Christ the Saviour tells us that God’s love is victorious. Contemplation of this great love brings a hope and joy to ourWe can see this in many of the Gospel stories. We recall when Jesus hearts that nothing can destroy. Christians can never be sad, forvisited Zacchaeus, a dishonest tax collector and public sinner, he This deep joy is the fruit of the Holy Spirit who makes us God’s they have met Christ, who gave his life for them.said to him: “Today I must stay at your house”. Then, Saint Luke sons and daughters, capable of experiencing and savouring histells us, Zacchaeus “received him with joy” (Lk 19:5-6). This is the goodness, and calling him “Abba”, Father (cf. Rm 8:15). Joy is the The liturgy is a special place where the Church expresses the joyjoy of meeting the Lord. It is the joy of feeling God’s love, a love sign of God’s presence and action within us. which she receives from the Lord and transmits it to the world.that can transform our whole life and bring salvation. Zacchaeus 3. Preserving Christian joy in our hearts Each Sunday at Mass the Christian community celebrates the cen-decides to change his life and to give half of his possessions to the At this point we wonder: “How do we receive and maintain this tral mystery of salvation, which is the death and resurrection ofpoor. gift of deep, spiritual joy?” Christ. This is a very important moment for all the Lord’s disciples One of the Psalms tells us: “Find your delight in the Lord who will because his sacrifice of love is made present. Sunday is the dayAt the hour of Jesus’ passion, this love can be seen in all its power. give you your heart's desire” (Ps 37:4). Jesus told us that “the king- when we meet the risen Christ, listen to his word, and are nour-At the end of his earthly life, while at supper with his friends, dom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person ished by his body and blood. As we hear in one of the Psalms:Jesus said: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad”my love... I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and and buys that field” (Mt 13:44). The discovery and preservation of (Ps 118:24). At the Easter Vigil, the Church sings the Exultet, ayour joy may be complete” (Jn 15:9,11). Jesus wants to lead his dis- spiritual joy is the fruit of an encounter with the Lord. Jesus asks hymn of joy for the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death:ciples and each one of us into the fullness of joy that he shares with us to follow him and to stake our whole life on him. Dear young “Sing, choirs of angels! ... Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendour ...the Father, so that the Father’s love for him might abide in us (cf. people, do not be afraid to risk your lives by making space for Let this place resound with joy, echoing the mighty song of allJn 17:26). Christian joy consists in being open to God’s love and Jesus Christ and his Gospel. This is the way to find inner peace God’s people!” Christian joy is born of this awareness of beingbelonging to him. and true happiness. It is the way to live fully as children of God, loved by God who became man, gave his life for us and overcame created in his image and likeness. evil and death. It means living a life of love for him. As SaintThe Gospels recount that Mary Magdalene and other women went Seek joy in the Lord: for joy is the fruit of faith. It is being aware of Thérèse of the Child Jesus, a young Carmelite, wrote: “Jesus, myto visit the tomb where Jesus had been laid after his death. An his presence and friendship every day: “the Lord is near!” (Phil joy is loving you” (P 45, 21 January 1897).angel told them the astonishing news of Jesus’ resurrection. Then, 4:5). It is putting our trust in God, and growing in his knowledgethe Evangelist tells us, they ran from the sepulchre, “fearful yet and love. Shortly we shall begin the “Year of Faith”, and this will Conitnued on page 18overjoyed” to share the good news with the disciples. Jesus met help and encourage us. Dear friends, learn to see how God isthem on the way and said: “Peace!” (Mt 28:8-9). They were being working in your lives and discover him hidden within the eventsoffered the joy of salvation. Christ is the One who lives and who of daily life. Believe that he is always faithful to the covenantovercame evil, sin and death. He is present among us as the Risen which he made with you on the day of your Baptism. Know that

PAGe 16 AVAILABLE AT Nassau Catholic Bookstore (Located on St. Francis Xavier Cathedral grounds) Telephone: 242 • 325-4452

PAGe 17ST. JOSEPH’S MEN’S MINISTRY 2-DAY REUNION RETREAT “Come Let’s Make Our Ministry Vibrant Again” Come Let’s Make Our Ministry Vibrant Again”, was the theme of St Joseph’s Men’s Ministry two- day reunion retreat recently. According to president, Michael Neely, the main objective of the retreat was for men to come together in a quorum and to commit to each other, in an atmos- phere of fun and fellowshipping, while discussing and exploring ways to improve and reinforce the ministry. Day 1 of the retreat begun with the opening prayer, by Deacon Gregory Taylor, who also addressed the group and pointed out the importance of involvement in strengthening the men’s ministry. Deacon also added that both members and parishioners should make it their resolution to attend regular meetings and increase their level of participation within the group. He said in doing so, it will return the group to its vibrancy; he also reiterated that the greater the member- ship, the greater chances of the group conducting and completing more proj- ects within the church and throughout the parish community. Michael Neely officially welcomed the participants and addressed the group highlighting and expanding on the points Deacon Taylor made. He admitted that as a ministry, the necessary tools were not provided to foster brotherhood, in order to fulfill the mission as stated in the constitution. He reminded the group, that even though there may be personality differences and diverse views each individual deserves respect. The example of Jesus Christ should always be followed and God should be placed first in everything. The participants were then divided into four groups to discuss and explore ways to resolve issues within the ministry. The discussions revolve around four topics: • What we as men can do to make the group vibrant again? •What can be done to keep men involved in the ministry? • What role do men play in the development of the parish? • What does it mean to be men of grace? After the discussion session, Dr. Samuel Bain and Val Maura, did a presenta- tion on men’s health and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prolong and enrich one’s life. Under the theme song, “It’s not an easy road”, day two of the reunion retreat began with Michael Neely reading a survey that was conducted a year earlier by fellow parishioners. The survey consisted of concerns fellow male parish- ioners had pertaining to the role of the men’s ministry in the community, along with recommendations to address them. Following the survey, those present discussed matters arising from it. At one point, a parishioner made a com- pelling and candid statement, saying that the group wishes to thrive, mem- bers must maintain consistency. The retreated concluded with a benediction serve celebrated by Monsignor Alfred Culmer. Monsignor touched on a number of topics; mainly the lack of participation and involvement of men compared to the female parishioners of the parish. He emphasized that ministries should continuously reflect on the sacrificial sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and it should be the focal point of each ministry. The event concluded with food, drinks, games and fellowship in the Parish Center. – submitted by Guerry Caprice

PAGe 18 Pope to Youth: Be Missionaries of Joy!from page 15 is not by chance that Saint Paul’s exhorta- ness and to ask for God’s forgiveness. age you to be missionaries of joy. We cannot tion: “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Phil 4:4) Celebrate this sacrament regularly, with be happy if others are not. Joy has to be4. The joy of love is written in the plural, addressing the com- serenity and trust. The Lord will always shared. Go and tell other young people munity as a whole, rather than its individ- open his arms to you. He will purify you about your joy at finding the precious treas-Dear friends, joy is intimately linked to ual members. Only when we are together and bring you into his joy: for there is joy in ure which is Jesus himself. We cannot keeplove. They are inseparable gifts of the Holy in the communion of fellowship do we heaven even for one sinner who repents (cf. the joy of faith to ourselves. If we are toSpirit (cf. Gal 5:23). Love gives rise to joy, experience this joy. In the Acts of the Lk 15:7). keep it, we must give it away. Saint Johnand joy is a form of love. Blessed Teresa of Apostles, the first Christian community is said: “What we have seen and heard weCalcutta drew on Jesus’ words: “It is more described in these words: “Breaking bread 6. Joy at times of trial proclaim now to you, so that you too mayblessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35) in their homes, they ate their meals with have fellowship with us; we are writingwhen she said: “Joy is a net of love by exultation and sincerity of heart” (Acts In the end, though, we might still wonder this so that our joy may be complete” (1 Jnwhich you can catch souls; God loves a 2:46). I ask you to make every effort to help in our hearts whether it is really possible to 1:3-4).cheerful giver. Whoever gives with joy our Christian communities to be special live joyfully amid all life’s trials, especiallygives more”. As the Servant of God Paul VI places of sharing, attention and concern for those which are most tragic and mysteri- Christianity is sometimes depicted as awrote: “In God himself, all is joy because all one another. ous. We wonder whether following the way of life that stifles our freedom and goesis giving” (Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete Lord and putting our trust in him will against our desires for happiness and joy.in Domino, 9 May 1975). 5. The joy of conversion always bring happiness. But this is far from the truth. Christians are men and women who are truly happyIn every area of your life, you should know Dear friends, experiencing real joy also We can find an answer in some of the expe- because they know that they are not alone.that to love means to be steadfast, reliable means recognizing the temptations that riences of young people like yourselves They know that God is always holdingand faithful to commitments. This applies lead us away from it. Our present-day cul- who have found in Christ the light that can them in his hands. It is up to you, youngmost of all to friendship. Our friends expect ture often pressures us to seek immediate give strength and hope even in difficult sit- followers of Christ, to show the world thatus to be sincere, loyal and faithful because goals, achievements and pleasures. It fos- uations. Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901- faith brings happiness and a joy which istrue love perseveres even in times of diffi- ters fickleness more than perseverance, 1925) experienced many trials during his true, full and enduring. If the wayculty. The same thing can be said about hard work and fidelity to commitments. short life, including a romantic experience Christians live at times appears dull andyour work and studies and the services you The messages it sends push a consumerist that left him deeply hurt. In the midst of boring, you should be the first to show thecarry out. Fidelity and perseverance in mentality and promise false happiness. this situation he wrote to his sister: “You joyful and happy side of faith. The Gospeldoing good brings joy, even if not always Experience teaches us that possessions do ask me if I am happy. How could I not be? is the “good news” that God loves us andimmediately. not ensure happiness. How many people As long as faith gives me strength, I am that each of us is important to him. Show are surrounded by material possessions yet happy. A Catholic could not be other than the world that this is true!If we are to experience the joy of love, we their lives are filled with despair, sadness happy... The goal for which we were creat-must also be generous. We cannot be con- and emptiness! To have lasting joy we need ed involves a path which has its thorns, but Be enthusiastic witnesses of the new evan-tent to give the minimum. We need to be to live in love and truth. We need to live in it is not a sad path. It is joy, even when it gelization! Go to those who are sufferingfully committed in life and to pay particu- God. involves pain” (Letter to his sister Luciana, and those who are searching, and givelar attention to those in need. The world Turin, 14 February 1925). When Blessed them the joy that Jesus wants to bestow.needs men and women who are competent God wants us to be happy. That is why he John Paul II presented Blessed Pier Giorgio Bring it to your families, your schools andand generous, willing to be at the service of gave us specific directions for the journey as a model for young people, he described universities, and your workplaces and yourthe common good. Make every effort to of life: the commandments. If we observe him as “a young person with infectious joy, friends, wherever you live. You will seestudy conscientiously, to develop your tal- them, we will find the path to life and hap- the joy that overcame many difficulties in how it is contagious. You will receive aents and to put them at the service of others piness. At first glance, they might seem to his life” (Address to Young People, Turin, hundredfold: the joy of salvation for your-even now. Find ways to help make society be a list of prohibitions and an obstacle to 13 April 1980). selves, and the joy of seeing God’s mercy atmore just and humane wherever you hap- our freedom. But if we study them more work in the hearts of others. And when youpen to be. May your entire life be guided by closely, we see in the light of Christ’s mes- Closer to us in time is Chiara Badano (1971- go to meet the Lord on that last day, youa spirit of service and not by the pursuit of sage that the commandments are a set of 1990), who was recently beatified. She will hear him say: “Well done, my goodpower, material success and money. essential and valuable rules leading to a experienced how pain could be transfig- and faithful servant... Come, share your happy life in accordance with God’s plan. ured by love and mysteriously steeped in master’s joy” (Mt 25:21).Speaking of generosity, I would like to How often, on the other hand, do we see joy. At the age of eighteen, while sufferingmention one particular joy. It is the joy we that choosing to build our lives apart from greatly from cancer, Chiara prayed to the May the Blessed Virgin Mary accompanyfeel when we respond to the vocation to God and his will brings disappointment, Holy Spirit and interceded for the young you on this journey. She welcomed thegive our whole life to the Lord. Dear young sadness and a sense of failure. The experi- people of the movement to which she Lord within herself and proclaimed this inpeople, do not be afraid if Christ is calling ence of sin, which is the refusal to follow belonged. As well as praying for her own a song of praise and joy, the Magnificat:you to the religious, monastic or mission- God and an affront to his friendship, brings cure, she asked God to enlighten all those “My soul proclaims the greatness of theary life or to the priesthood. Be assured that gloom into our hearts. young people by his Spirit and to give them Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour”he fills with joy all those who respond to wisdom and light. “It was really a moment (Lk 1:46-47). Mary responded fully to God’shis invitation to leave everything to be with At times the path of the Christian life is not of God’s presence. I was suffering physical- love by devoting her life to him in humblehim and to devote themselves with undi- easy, and being faithful to the Lord’s love ly, but my soul was singing” (Letter to and complete service. She is invoked asvided heart to the service of others. In the presents obstacles; occasionally we fall. Yet Chiara Lubich, Sassello, 20 December “Cause of our Joy” because she gave ussame way, God gives great joy to men and God in his mercy never abandons us; he 1989). The key to her peace and joy was her Jesus. May she lead you to that joy whichwomen who give themselves totally to one always offers us the possibility of returning complete trust in the Lord and the accept- no one will ever be able to take away fromanother in marriage in order to build a fam- to him, being reconciled with him and ance of her illness as a mysterious expres- you!ily and to be signs of Christ’s love for the experiencing the joy of his love which for- sion of his will for her sake and that ofChurch. gives and welcomes us back. everyone. She often said: “Jesus, if you From the Vatican, 15 March 2012 desire it, then I desire it too”. BENEDICTUS PP. XVILet me remind you of a third element that Dear young people, have frequent recoursewill lead you to the joy of love. It is allow- to the sacrament of Penance and 7. Witnesses of joying fraternal love to grow in your lives and Reconciliation! It is the sacrament of joyin those of your communities. There is a rediscovered. Ask the Holy Spirit for the Dear friends, to conclude I would encour-close bond between communion and joy. It light needed to acknowledge your sinful-

PAGe 19Mary Star Stingrays give back “To everything there is a season, and a time to through the every purpose under the heaven” – sixth grade; the Ecclesiastes 3:1. Mary, Star of the Sea entire student body was involved in service Catholic School uses this approach to devel- projects. One of the projects was a food drive op holistic individuals. There is a time for for the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. The academics and a time for faith sharing; there Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic is a time for having fun and a time for giving organization which offers tangible assistance service. During the Catholic Schools to those in need on a person-to-person basis. Week/Spirit Week our students were Our students came out in full force to assist exposed to all the aspects of our theme: Faith, with canned goods to help persons in our Academics and Service. community who have fallen on hard times. One of the main facets was that of service. - Submitted by Joanne C. Edgecombe-Cooper From the Early Childhood DepartmentDonation to Kidney Centre - Mary Star, of the Sea family dug The sixth graders donned gloves anddeep into their pockets to contribute to the Grand Bahama work clothes and a-cleaning theyKidney Center. The Center is a staple on our island helping went. They cleaned the Marian Shrineindividuals in our community who cope with kidney disorders. on West Sunrise Highway, thePictured above are, student, Sherrad Russell, Mr. Nabb, the Catholic Retreat Center on Tamarindprincipal, presenting a cheque to Nurse Sherise Dawkins R.N. Street and Mary Star of the Sea(right). Sherrad is no stranger to the Kidney center, he has ben- Catholic Church. The 6th graders alsoefited from the facility and finds great pleasure in giving back volunteered at The Bahamas Redto it. Cross Headquarters, GB Humane Society, The Rand Nature Centre and The Freeport Veterinary Clinic.Church News Holy Father marks two milestones AROUND THE WORLD On the morning of Wednesday April 18th, in the Pauline Chapel of the Vatican Apostolic Palace, a Mass of thanksgiving was celebrated to mark two anniversaries of the Pope, his eighty-fifth birthday (April 16 ) and the seventh anniversary of his election (April 19). The Mass was attended by members of the College of Cardinals and by a group of bishops from the Pope's native region of Bavaria. In his homily the Pope recalled how on the day he was born and baptised the liturgy \"erected three signposts showing me where the road led and helping me find it\": the feast of St. Bernardette of Lourdes, the feast of St. Benedict Joseph Labre, and Easter Saturday which in the year of the Pope's birth fell on April16th. Pope Benedict XVI prays in front of a replica of the statue of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre at the seminary of St. Basil the Great in El Cobre, Cuba March 27. - photo by L'Osservatore Romano

AYP2012 Archdiocesan Youth Pilgrimage NEW PROVIDENCE Saturday, May 19th, 2012 6:30am – 5:00pmArchdiocese of NassauYouth & Young Adult Ministry Catholic Youth who have celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation, 15 to 18 years old, are invited to join Archbishop Patrick Pinder for an unforgettable pilgrimage right here in New Providence. Beginning and ending at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, the pilgrimage will include stops at parishes on New Providence, as well as many opportunities for prayer and reflection. MORE INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION FORMS AVAILABLE AT WWW.ARCHNASSAU.ORG/YOUTH OR AT YOUR PARISH OFFICE