18th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia
18th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia
18th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia
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EASTERN LINK<br />
1908 <strong>20</strong>13<br />
JUNE<br />
The <strong>Catenians</strong><br />
Strengthening family life<br />
through friendship and faith<br />
EDITION<br />
NEWS & EVENTS OF…<br />
CATENIAN CIRCLES AND GROUPS OF<br />
PROVINCE 21 & VICTORIA AREA COUNCIL<br />
BROTHER PHIL RECEIVES THE AOM – SEE PAGE 24
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
IN THIS EDITION…<br />
JUNE Page 2 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
21<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE<br />
EASTERN LINK<br />
Volume 2 Issue no 18<br />
JUNE <strong>20</strong>13<br />
News from<br />
Circles and Groups<br />
Of <strong>Province</strong> 21<br />
& Victoria Area<br />
Council<br />
Please send all copy to<br />
Editor: Peter Cash<br />
3 Greenhaven Street<br />
Clifton Beach Qld 4879<br />
Telephone: 4055 3529<br />
Email: petercash@btinternet.com<br />
Contents:<br />
Pages 4-5….….………Provincial Director<br />
Brother Kevin Doherty<br />
Pages 6-8…………..Provincial President<br />
Brother John Tweedie<br />
Page 9………..Past Provincial President<br />
President Brother Paul Despoges<br />
Page 10…………..Grand Vice- President<br />
Brother Bob Butler<br />
Pages 11-14…………………...News from<br />
Provincial Council<br />
Pages 15-18……………………...Mission;<br />
One Heart Many Voices<br />
Pages 19-46………...News from Circles<br />
Pages 47-48……..Catenian Conference<br />
Pictures<br />
Pages 49-50..…...Victoria Area Council<br />
Pages 51-54………….….Miscellaneous<br />
Page 55-56..………………….Obituaries<br />
Pages 57-60…………….Miscellaneous<br />
*LATE NEWS…LATE NEWS…LATE<br />
NEWS…LATE NEWS…LATE NEWS*<br />
Congratulations to <strong>Province</strong> <strong>20</strong><br />
Director Brother Gerry Barton, first<br />
<strong>Australia</strong>n Catenian Brother is sit on<br />
Grand Council Executive, in the<br />
position <strong>of</strong> Chairman <strong>of</strong> AusCom.<br />
Dear Brothers.<br />
A warm and fraternal welcome to all my fellow<br />
Catenian Brothers.<br />
Congratulations to the many Brothers who helped at<br />
the Mission: one heart many voices Conference. Once<br />
again, our Catenian Brothers and their expertise is<br />
sourced again from other Catholic organisations. We<br />
cannot go any further without mentioning the<br />
marvellous devotion <strong>of</strong> our <strong>Province</strong> 21 President<br />
Brother John Tweedie and his family. Actions speak<br />
louder than words and this was magnificently<br />
demonstrated by John and his family at the<br />
Conference.<br />
I would like to welcome Grand Vice-President Robert<br />
Butler as a contributor to <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong>. Brother Bob<br />
will be vising us next year when he takes over the<br />
reigns as Grand President. He will be marrying his visit<br />
with our 4 th <strong>Australia</strong>n National Conference being held<br />
in Sydney.<br />
Very sadly, our Association has lost one <strong>of</strong> its longest<br />
serving City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle Brother’s; Greg Smyth<br />
RIP. He was such a devoted Catenian and committed<br />
Catholic. He was always making sure that I carried<br />
something about Mary’s Rosary Chain. I <strong>of</strong>ten spoke<br />
with him on the phone, but had never met him<br />
personally, my deepest sympathies to Colleen and his<br />
family. Such a loss to our Association. May he rest in<br />
peace. Amen.<br />
I would like to thank our very hardworking <strong>Province</strong> 21<br />
Secretary, Brother George Kazs. He is a tremendous<br />
asset to <strong>Province</strong> 21, thank-you George for all you help<br />
in providing our Catenian Brothers with so much<br />
information.<br />
Looking forward to receiving items for future<br />
publications.<br />
Sincerely & Fraternally,<br />
Peter<br />
Please be advised that the contributions in the newsletter are not<br />
necessarily those <strong>of</strong> the Catenian Association. The Editor reserves<br />
the right to amend any contribution.<br />
JUNE Page 3 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
FROM….<br />
PROVINCE 21 DIRECTOR<br />
BROTHER KEVIN DOHERTY<br />
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION<br />
Report from Brother Kevin<br />
on the Catenian UK annual Conference<br />
Held in London on May 17 th <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Introduction<br />
There were matters, which occurred before the Conference, which had a bearing on the outcome<br />
The retiring Grand Secretary, Jim Quinn, noting the disquiet amongst the membership regarding the decision<br />
to allow “irregular” Catholics to become members, commenced enquiries.<br />
He first communicated with Fr. Andrew Moss, the Canon Lawyer, who had given advice to the Chichester<br />
Circle. Fr Andrew made it quite clear that, in his opinion, a person in an irregular marriage cannot be a<br />
“Practising” Catholic and he wrote to the Grand President, John Mottram stating that since its rule change,<br />
the Association was operating outside the Magisterium <strong>of</strong> the Catholic Church.<br />
Brother Grand Secretary then wrote to Bishop John Arnold asking for advice and help. The Bishop <strong>of</strong>fered to<br />
raise the matter with the Bishop’s Conference <strong>of</strong> England and Wales at their next meeting. Subsequently<br />
Brother Grand Secretary, Jim, received a letter from Mgr. Marcus Stock, the general secretary <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Conference.<br />
There were several meetings following the receipt <strong>of</strong> that letter between senior members <strong>of</strong> Grand Council<br />
and Mgr. Stock. A report on those meetings was drawn up but could not be issued to other members <strong>of</strong><br />
Grand Council until Mgr. Stock had approved it. He was then in Rome. Once approved the information was<br />
distributed to members <strong>of</strong> Grand Council and then the Executive Committee <strong>of</strong> Grand Council met by<br />
teleconference and agreed that Manchester Circle should be informed <strong>of</strong> the developments and given the<br />
opportunity to withdraw the Conference Motion.<br />
Manchester Circle placed conditions on the motions withdrawal, which Grand Council did not accept, and as<br />
a result, the motion went ahead. (See the report on the conference below) The Grand Council Executive is<br />
now considering this matter.<br />
The Conference.<br />
Grand Presidents Opening Address<br />
The Conference opened with a keynote address by the Grand President, John Rayer; I am not going to<br />
repeat it here because it is published in the June edition <strong>of</strong> Catena, which you can access via their web site.<br />
If you cannot work out the new password then contact me and I will give it to you. /Continued on next page…<br />
JUNE Page 4 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Report from Brother Kevin<br />
on the Catenian UK annual Conference continued…<br />
I found it very interesting and I, like the editor <strong>of</strong> Catena would recommend that you read it. Brother Grand<br />
President, John is taking a different approach to his predecessors and will be looking to grow the<br />
membership <strong>of</strong> Association during his year in <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
Manchester proposal<br />
After the keynote address and other formalities, and before the Manchester motion was put, the attendees<br />
were informed <strong>of</strong> the information that Grand Council had received from Fr. Andrew Moss, Bishop John<br />
Arnold and Mgr. Marcus Stock.<br />
The motion was then put; there were about three speakers for and three against the motion before a brother<br />
from Eastbourne proposed that the motion be put. I cannot remember the exact numbers but the motion was<br />
defeated by an approximate ratio <strong>of</strong> two to one.<br />
Rules, Regulations Policies and Procedures<br />
The newly elected Vice President Brother Bob Butler had included his committee’s Green Paper on<br />
proposed changes in the conference papers. He stated that he was not proposing the changes at the<br />
conference but that he would like to get an indication on how the 450 or so members present felt about them.<br />
Each attendee had been issued with three coloured cards. They were required to show a green card if they<br />
agreed with the changes, Red if they were opposed to the change and yellow if they were undecided or<br />
wished to abstain.<br />
As each proposed change was read out, the brothers attending held al<strong>of</strong>t their cards and the results were<br />
counted. They were mostly in favour <strong>of</strong> the proposed changes. I do hope that the July issue <strong>of</strong> Catena will<br />
feature this part <strong>of</strong> the conference because if those brothers attending are indicative <strong>of</strong> <strong>Catenians</strong> in the UK<br />
then it is now obvious that the majority <strong>of</strong> Catenian Brothers want change and want the Association to move<br />
forward.<br />
Youth Matters<br />
Brother Provincial Director, David Rowley was the last speaker and he brought the conference up to date<br />
with what the Association in the UK is doing to support Catholic Youth in the UK Community. If you would<br />
like to know more about this then read Brother Grand President, John Rayer’s introduction in the members<br />
section <strong>of</strong> the Catenian Web Site. We in province 21 are behind our brothers in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> and far<br />
behind the UK in these matters. We do have Circles that conduct speaking competitions but we need to coordinate<br />
our efforts and get the news about the Bursary Fund out to the colleges, the parents and the<br />
schools alumni<br />
Summary<br />
The Grand Council Executive Committee are examining the letters concerning “Practising” Catholic. They<br />
may resurrect the Membership Eligibility Criteria Committee to examine the way forward and no doubt we will<br />
be informed as soon as a decision is reached.<br />
The Mass in Westminster Cathedral was awe-inspiring and the two choirs made the mass a truly spiritual<br />
happening. I do hope that Catena publish the Homily delivered by the Auxiliary Bishop <strong>of</strong> Westminster. He<br />
had certainly completed his homework on the Catenian Association. He gave us all his Blessing and hope for<br />
the future.<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21 Director Brother Kevin Doherty<br />
JUNE Page 5 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
From. . .<br />
Brother John Tweedie<br />
President <strong>Province</strong> 21<br />
The Catenian Association<br />
Dear Brothers,<br />
In this my first note to you as Provincial President, I would like to introduce myself to those <strong>of</strong> you who I<br />
haven’t yet met. As my aim is to visit all Circles during the year, I trust that by the end <strong>of</strong> my term I will have<br />
met most <strong>of</strong> you personally.<br />
I am John Tweedie, husband (to Pamela for 35 years in September); father (to Katherine); retiring lawyer (I<br />
basically finished work heading the superannuation legal team at Commonwealth Bank at the end <strong>of</strong><br />
December <strong>20</strong>12 – but it is hard to completely untie that knot); parishioner (formerly <strong>of</strong> Sacred Heart Parish<br />
Mosman, but with our main focus having moved to the Blue Mountains, now <strong>of</strong> Sacred Heart Parish<br />
Blackheath – the smallest and most westerly <strong>of</strong> the parishes in the Parramatta Diocese); convert to<br />
Catholicism (I am finding that quite a number <strong>of</strong> my Catenian Brothers in active positions in the Association<br />
have this in common with me) and committed Catenian (since <strong>20</strong>00 when I joined Mosman Circle).<br />
I believe that joining the Association was one <strong>of</strong> the more important decisions <strong>of</strong> this part <strong>of</strong> my life’s journey<br />
(I am now 60 but joined in my 40s). I have <strong>of</strong>ten related how I remember well the moment I set foot in my<br />
first Catenian gathering at Mosman, as the guest <strong>of</strong> a fellow parishioner. The very first person I saw was<br />
Brother Warwick Jones (joint member <strong>of</strong> Manly and Mosman). Warwick had been a senior lawyer in CBA,<br />
whom I had greatly respected but who retired some years before. As can happen when people retire, I had<br />
lost contact with him. But as a result I immediately felt completely at home in this gathering, and as my<br />
Catenian connections have grown over the years, I have never lost that feeling. Indeed, it has expanded.<br />
The trusting relationships that we can quickly develop because we are dealing with Catenian Brothers, have<br />
on more than one occasion been a catalyst in helping me determine a personal path to follow. Further, I<br />
have always enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere <strong>of</strong> our dinners, apart from being a great way to unwind, it<br />
allows for the serious discussion to develop on all manner <strong>of</strong> topics. We remain a grass roots organisation<br />
and our monthly meeting and dinner remain the bread and butter <strong>of</strong> who we are.<br />
Our participation in the Association is very much grounded on these regular meetings and our dinners,<br />
including those where we join with Brothers in other Circles. The meetings <strong>of</strong> course have some degree <strong>of</strong><br />
ritual, though this has been diminishing over the years.<br />
People express different views on the stage we have reached with the use <strong>of</strong> rituals and the regalia. This is<br />
certainly something that one <strong>of</strong> the Committees <strong>of</strong> Grand Council is looking at now, and all Brothers can<br />
contribute to the discussion over the next couple <strong>of</strong> months. Circle Secretaries will all have copies <strong>of</strong> the<br />
relevant “Green Paper” proposals, so please contact your Secretary if you haven’t seen this information and<br />
would like to comment.<br />
My personal view is that as with a sporting team, an employment relationship or any other organisation, one<br />
joins with a view to playing or participating under the rules as they exist. My place as a member <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Catenian Association is no different.<br />
Having said that, we need to have an eye for the future <strong>of</strong> the Association. We must be open to change, and<br />
in some cases we may need to strongly advocate for change, through the appropriate governance<br />
arrangements that exist within the Association. It is not just ritual and regalia that are relevant in this regard.<br />
Brother Provincial President John continues on the next page…<br />
JUNE Page 6 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Brother Provincial President John continues…<br />
There are many structural issues that the Association is in the process <strong>of</strong> addressing.<br />
The Association started out as a purely English entity in 1908 with a particular focus based on the then social<br />
order in England. It has retained its structure, despite the fact that is now an international entity with a sizable<br />
and growing minority <strong>of</strong> its members living outside the UK, and despite major changes in society and the<br />
Church. Much work has been, and continues to be, carried out to address this.<br />
When considering our future, an important issue is whether our Association has, and will continue to have, an<br />
identity which will be attractive to those <strong>Australia</strong>n Catholics who may be seen as essential to its long term<br />
viability. I have in mind younger Catholics and also Catholics <strong>of</strong> non-English speaking backgrounds born<br />
outside <strong>Australia</strong>. Both these groups are very important elements within the Diocese <strong>of</strong> Parramatta (and no<br />
doubt in many other <strong>Australia</strong>n dioceses).<br />
An even more basic identity issue is evidenced by the “practising Catholic” debate, that has exercised the<br />
minds <strong>of</strong> many Brothers over the past few years. <strong>Australia</strong>n Brothers, particularly those from <strong>Province</strong> 21,<br />
have maintained a keen interest in this debate. This issue appeared to have been resolved in a fairly flexible<br />
way by Grand Council in the guidance it issued in November <strong>20</strong>12. Though it seems the issue is still the<br />
subject <strong>of</strong> some further consideration by that body.<br />
Another matter concerns our pr<strong>of</strong>ile within the Catholic Church. Historically the pr<strong>of</strong>ile has been low. A<br />
number <strong>of</strong> us have had a few recent forays into a more pubic arena acting as volunteers at various events,<br />
such as the Proclaim <strong>20</strong>12 conference on the New Evangelisation and the more recent Mission: One Heart<br />
Many Voices Conference. Apart from the obvious benefits to the conference organisers in providing this<br />
simple but important form <strong>of</strong> service, we have in this way been able to publicise the Association to a broader<br />
Catholic audience. I would hope that brother <strong>Catenians</strong> see merit in continuing this type <strong>of</strong> activity. Apart<br />
from the other benefits, I find that actually working with my Catenian Brothers on projects like this, enhances<br />
our fraternal relationship. I am sure my fellow workers have felt the same.<br />
Our Provincial Council has recently developed a strategic plan to help with planning over the next five years.<br />
The aim is to consider the important issues for the Association, so that we can ensure a strong and vibrant<br />
future for the Association in <strong>Province</strong> 21 and, through our close relationships with <strong>Province</strong> <strong>20</strong> and the<br />
Victorian Area, within <strong>Australia</strong>. Provincial Council was helped greatly in giving substance to this plan, by the<br />
valuable discussion and input from Brothers attending the Provincial Workshop in early April.<br />
Because we are part <strong>of</strong> a single international body, our <strong>Province</strong> 21 Director Brother Kevin Doherty provides<br />
an important link to Grand Council and to what is happening with our brothers in the UK and worldwide.<br />
Brother Kevin recently attended the annual conference in London. The new Grand President Brother John<br />
Rayer made a very forward looking speech at the conference and a copy is available in the June edition <strong>of</strong><br />
Catena. Brother John lists a number <strong>of</strong> points in a vision for the future which shows that his agenda for the<br />
future is a very open one. He commented that the species that survives is “the one that is most adaptable to<br />
change”.<br />
If you do not receive Catena it is currently available free <strong>of</strong> charge on the public section <strong>of</strong> the UK website at<br />
http://www.thecatenians.co.uk/pages/members_services/catena_magazine/default.aspx . Alternatively<br />
Brother Peter Cash has sent a copy <strong>of</strong> the speech to all Circle Secretaries.<br />
Brother Provincial President John continues on the next page…<br />
JUNE Page 7 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Brother Provincial President John continues…<br />
I would like to conclude this now too long note with a some important thank-you’s and words <strong>of</strong> recognition.<br />
First to the outgoing President Brother Paul Despoges, thanks for your outstanding work during the past<br />
year as Provincial President and also for your personal support to me in my various activities. For anyone<br />
who has worked with Paul, you will agree that he is constantly on the job and looking to the best interests <strong>of</strong><br />
the Association and its members. Paul continues as the Provincial Membership Officer, so he will have an<br />
important ongoing involvement with the Council and the <strong>Province</strong>.<br />
To our outgoing Provincial Treasurer Brother Peter Gialouris, thanks for your assiduous attention to the<br />
detail <strong>of</strong> our financial position. To our departing Councillors Brothers Laurie de Ambrosis (Manly), Rob<br />
Haddad (Carlingford), Paul Moriarty (Parramatta), Ray Finnegan (Canberra Molonglo) and Tom Lyons (Gold<br />
Coast Tweed), thanks for you valuable contributions to the success <strong>of</strong> our Council and its meetings.<br />
A big welcome to our incoming Vice President Brother Michael Tan. Michael carried out valuable work<br />
some years back as the Provincial Membership Officer and has eagerly embraced his new role. Michael is<br />
seeking to organise a broad ranging group from <strong>Province</strong> 21 to attend the next annual <strong>Catenians</strong><br />
conference in Liverpool in the UK in May <strong>20</strong>14. I have indicated to Michael that I would like to join this<br />
group.<br />
Welcome also to our other new Council members – our new Treasurer Brother Paul Day and our incoming<br />
Councillors, Brothers Warren Clarke (Parramatta), Russel Cooper (Canberra Molonglo), Kevin Devine (Gold<br />
Coast Tweed), Laurence Lawlor (Manly) and John O’Grady (Carlingford). Congratulations also to Brother<br />
Robin Wells, whose role as Councillor for Canberra Circle has been expanded by his taking on the role <strong>of</strong><br />
Provincial Chamberlain.<br />
I would also like to recognise the efforts <strong>of</strong> Brother George Kazs as Provincial Secretary (another brother<br />
who seems constantly on the job), Brother Pat Moran as our ongoing membership records guru, Brother<br />
Peter Cash for the extraordinary effort he puts into ensuring we have readily available information in the<br />
form <strong>of</strong> <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong> and other special publications, Brother Chris Pitts for his work in ensuring our website<br />
is up to date and accessible and Brother Phil Davies as our supply <strong>of</strong>ficer.<br />
Our next provincial function is the Provincial Mass at St Joseph’s Conference and Retreat Centre at<br />
Baulkham Hills on Sunday 28 July at 12.30pm. This is the centrepiece <strong>of</strong> Provincial activities for the year<br />
and I would ask that you bring along as many family members as you can muster. It is a wonderful<br />
opportunity for us to share the Eucharist with our Catenian brothers and their families and to remember<br />
those brothers who have gone before us. Lunch is being arranged after the Mass and details will be<br />
provided shortly.<br />
Very best fraternal regards<br />
Brother John Tweedie<br />
Provincial President<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21<br />
JUNE Page 8 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
The Catenian Association<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21 – <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Australia</strong><br />
PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT PAUL’S FINAL REPORT<br />
AT AGM 25 - 29 TH APRIL <strong>20</strong>13<br />
We have witnessed a year <strong>of</strong> change and challenge at all levels <strong>of</strong> the Association, some planned and others<br />
unexpected. It is pleasing to report irrespective <strong>of</strong> the level <strong>of</strong> challenge; it has been met in the true Catenian<br />
spirit.<br />
We started our year with a workshop for all within <strong>Province</strong> 21, titled Challenge/Change/ Implementation. It<br />
could be debated, what was new with such an approach. Well I can report that each <strong>of</strong> the three components<br />
were actioned and progress was witnessed, so much so that we have concluded the Catenian year with<br />
another workshop, on this occasion it was focused on our strategy for the upcoming 5 years. Full report on<br />
this workshop will be circulated to all Circles and in a special edition <strong>of</strong> <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong>, due in the main to the<br />
efforts by our Provincial Secretary Br George Kazs.<br />
Within the Provincial Council, change has taken place with our management structure; we now have five<br />
committees formed to manage the operations <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Province</strong> with the desire to see a more proactive Council<br />
in operation. The respective Committees are - Executive; Membership & Strategic; Church Liaison & Social<br />
Events; Communications & Publicity and Finance & Budgets.<br />
It is pleasing to witness the immediate impact these committees have made, especially the Church Liaison &<br />
Social Events, under the leadership <strong>of</strong> Br John Tweedie we are now witnessing, <strong>Catenians</strong> been requested<br />
to assist at various Church functions at a State level e.g., Proclaim <strong>20</strong>12, Corpus Christie and currently<br />
Mission: one heart many voices. All committees have become very proactive in their own right, no doubt the<br />
year ahead will see more activity being implemented by each.<br />
The challenge, not only for <strong>Province</strong> 21, but for all <strong>Catenians</strong> in <strong>Australia</strong>, has been to see advancement with<br />
the implementation <strong>of</strong> the Restructure Commissions Report. This work is moving slowly, but with a positive<br />
approach and intention. We are most grateful to AusCom for its continual awareness programme conducted<br />
over the past 12 months within <strong>Australia</strong> and especially within the UK.<br />
Whilst mentioning AusCom’s work, it must be noted the success <strong>of</strong> the 3 rd <strong>Australia</strong>n Conference in<br />
Melbourne last September, in no small way due to the efforts <strong>of</strong> our Victorian Brothers. It was not only a<br />
great social weekend, but also a very productive Conference. Unfortunately within our own <strong>Province</strong> I am<br />
not able to report that we have expanded or witness growth within our ranks, sadly we have seen a decline<br />
in membership for the year and yet to see the opportunity to expand into new territory . This alone will<br />
become one <strong>of</strong> our biggest challenges within the immediate future. Sadly numbers attending the various<br />
Provincial activities have witness a decline, in particular the Provincial Mass.<br />
May I conclude with a special word <strong>of</strong> thanks to those Provincial Councillors who are standing down this year<br />
and to their successors, welcome. To our outgoing Treasurer Br Peter Gialouris, a special thank you for all<br />
your behind the scenes work, especially with the automation <strong>of</strong> the various financial processes, we wish you<br />
well in your new business. Finally to Br Peter Cash for all his efforts in publishing that first-class publication –<br />
<strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong>. To my Lieutenant – our Provincial Secretary, Br George Kazs, my sincere thanks for all <strong>of</strong> your<br />
untiring work, it has been more than appreciated (and to Elaine allowing us <strong>of</strong> his time). Let us not forget in<br />
our prayers our Brothers and family members <strong>of</strong> <strong>Catenians</strong> who have passed away over this past year.<br />
Brother Paul Despoges President, <strong>Province</strong> 21 29 April <strong>20</strong>13<br />
JUNE Page 9 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
From. . .<br />
Brother Robert Butler<br />
GRAND VICE-PRESIDENT<br />
The Catenian Association<br />
Kathy and I are very much looking forward to our first visit to <strong>Australia</strong> next year. In the<br />
meantime, there is much to be done to move our Association forward, and I am hoping for a<br />
considerable input from you all before September. The Rules Group <strong>of</strong> Grand Council were<br />
asked to review our Rules and Regulations, which we have done, but we also considered the<br />
conduct <strong>of</strong> meetings, admissions process, dress code, small Circles, and the status <strong>of</strong> Groups.<br />
In tackling these, we bore in mind several quite separate key points, and constantly referred<br />
back to them;<br />
1. The world and the Church will move on, with or without the Catenian Association.<br />
2. We must not become a curiosity, a dying relic <strong>of</strong> past times, irrelevant in the modern world.<br />
3. There is an irreducible minimum standard below which we cease to be the Catenian<br />
Association and become just a Lads’ Night Out.<br />
4. We must keep our identity, which marks us out as the Catenian Association.<br />
On the Catenian website under Downloading Information, you will see ‘Moving On’, which<br />
contains our discussion papers. We looked at who we are, what we do, and how we do it. The<br />
emphasis has moved from Grand Council to members and Circles. Our Circles will have more<br />
freedom to choose how they admit members, how they run their meetings, what they wear, and<br />
what insignia they use.<br />
In discussions with Kevin Doherty and others from <strong>Australia</strong>, I am encouraged by the way you<br />
look beyond the obvious, and see the potential <strong>of</strong> our Association for contributing to the future<br />
strength <strong>of</strong> the Church. In the England <strong>of</strong> 1908 the Church was strong and confident. We were<br />
a minority, but we were united in our unshakeable faith. In <strong>20</strong>13 the Church is marginalised,<br />
Mass attendances are falling, and the clergy do not have the aura <strong>of</strong> invincibility <strong>of</strong> previous<br />
years. The Catenian Association stands out as a potentially powerful body which can have an<br />
important role, as long as we are willing to engage with fellow Catholics. Instead <strong>of</strong> rejecting<br />
men whom we consider to be unworthy, we could try to encourage those who are clinging to<br />
their faith and <strong>of</strong>fer support and friendship. As my daughter tells me, “You only look down on<br />
someone when you are <strong>of</strong>fering your hand to help him up”.<br />
In <strong>Australia</strong> you do not have the weight <strong>of</strong> a century <strong>of</strong> Catenianism. Your oldest Circle dates<br />
from 1971, and many are <strong>of</strong> quite recent origin. Your nation looks to the future, and I am<br />
hoping that you will contribute to moving our Association into this century. You have much to<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer.<br />
JUNE Page 10 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
NEWS FROM<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
AUSTRALIA<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL<br />
Provincial President:<br />
John Tweedie<br />
Provincial<br />
Vice-President:<br />
Michael Tan<br />
Provincial<br />
Past President:<br />
Paul Despoges<br />
Provincial Secretary<br />
George Kazs<br />
Provincial Treasurer:<br />
Paul Day<br />
Provincial Chamberlain<br />
Robin Wells<br />
Provincial<br />
Membership Officer:<br />
Paul Despoges<br />
Provincial<br />
Publicity Officer:<br />
Peter Cash<br />
Provincial<br />
Record Officer:<br />
Pat Moran<br />
<strong>Province</strong> Director:<br />
Kevin Doherty<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT<br />
Provincial Council Meeting No 104 held at the <strong>of</strong>fices <strong>of</strong><br />
APICS – 111 Phillip Street Parramatta on Monday 29 April<br />
<strong>20</strong>13.<br />
Summary <strong>of</strong> outcomes<br />
Note that a separate report has already been published on<br />
the outcomes <strong>of</strong> the consideration <strong>of</strong> the strategic plan.<br />
Bro President installed Bro Warren Clarke as Provincial<br />
Councillor (Parramatta). He noted that because <strong>of</strong> their<br />
absences, Brothers John O’Grady (Carlingford), Russel Cooper<br />
(Canberra Molonglo) and Kevin Devine (Gold Coast Tweed)<br />
would need to be installed at a subsequent meeting. Following<br />
a Council resolution on certain appointments, Bro Paul<br />
Despoges then installed Bro John Tweedie as President <strong>of</strong><br />
Provincial Council and in turn Bro John Tweedie installed Bro<br />
Michael Tan as Vice President, Bro Paul Day as Treasurer, Bro<br />
Paul Despoges as Membership Officer and Bro Robin Wells as<br />
Chamberlain.<br />
Bro John Tweedie presented miniatures to Bro Paul Despoges<br />
(bar), Bro Peter Gialouris (Treasurer), Bro Peter Moriarty<br />
(Councillor, Parramatta); he would ensure Bro Laurie de<br />
Ambrosis received his miniature (Councillor, Manly) at a suitable<br />
occasion. Bro Peter Cash (Provincial Publicity Officer) had<br />
already been presented with his miniature at the recent<br />
workshop. Bro John Tweedie paid tribute to Bro Paul Despoges<br />
for his term as president, Bro Peter Gialouris as treasurer and to<br />
the retiring members <strong>of</strong> Council (Rob Haddad (Carlingford),<br />
Peter Moriarty (Parramatta), Laurie de Ambrosis (Manly) and<br />
Ray Finnegan (Canberra Molonglo)). He advised Council that<br />
the updated membership <strong>of</strong> Council’s committees for <strong>20</strong>13-14<br />
would need to be finalised to accommodate the new Councillors.<br />
He welcomed new Councillors and Officers to Council 1 .<br />
Confirmation <strong>of</strong> Minutes<br />
<strong>of</strong> the 24th Annual General Meeting held on 30 April <strong>20</strong>12<br />
Council resolved that the minutes <strong>of</strong> meeting 103, as circulated,<br />
be confirmed and signed as a true record <strong>of</strong> proceedings.<br />
1<br />
Now attached.<br />
/Continued on next page<br />
JUNE Page 11 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT CONT.<br />
Reports: Membership Officer<br />
Bro Pat Moran, Provincial Records Officer spoke to the reports as circulated. He noted that a data base <strong>of</strong><br />
members was now being maintained for each <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Province</strong>’s fourteen Circles. He undertook to liaise with<br />
Bro Chris Pitts concerning the security / privacy aspects <strong>of</strong> uploading these data onto the Provincial Website.<br />
In the meantime, Circle Secretaries could contact him if they wished to receive a copy <strong>of</strong> their Circle’s data<br />
base. The updated Provincial Directory was expected to be finalised by end May.<br />
Council noted that Bro Paul Despoges, as Provincial Membership Officer, would present the Friar Tuck trophy<br />
to Mosman Circle at a mutually convenient time and occasion. Bro Phil Davies would manage the updating <strong>of</strong><br />
the tankard’s plaque as appropriate each year.<br />
Reports: Director<br />
In Bro Kevin Doherty’s absence, there was no report.<br />
Reports: President<br />
(i)<br />
Strategic Development and Reform – update<br />
Bro John Tweedie drew Council’s attention to Grand Secretary’s newsletter No 37 and the outcomes <strong>of</strong> the<br />
consultation process in the UK. He suggested that the results <strong>of</strong> the consultation showed that many UK<br />
brothers appeared to have views consistent with those expressed by <strong>Australia</strong>n brothers on various aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
structural reform <strong>of</strong> the Association, particularly as it affects <strong>Australia</strong>.<br />
(ii)<br />
Executive Committee<br />
As there had been no meeting, there was no report.<br />
(iii)<br />
Strategic Plan <strong>20</strong>13-18 and Outcomes <strong>of</strong> Provincial Workshop<br />
Separate report published.<br />
Reports: Vice President<br />
Bro John Tweedie spoke to the report circulated. Council noted that Bro Peter Moriarty would manage<br />
arrangements for the Corpus Christi procession this year and that Council would negotiate suitable<br />
acknowledgement / sponsorship arrangements for next year. There were no other matters arising from the<br />
report.<br />
Council noted the following arrangements for hosting upcoming provincial events:<br />
• Provincial Mass Parramatta Sunday 28 July <strong>20</strong>13<br />
• O’Connell Cup Mosman 8 August <strong>20</strong>13<br />
• Truthful Jones Castle Hill 24 September <strong>20</strong>13<br />
• Little John Mug Mosman 13 February <strong>20</strong>14<br />
• Provincial Golf Day Muirfield March <strong>20</strong>14 (Paul Despoges and<br />
Malcolm Clow to confirm timing and arrangements)<br />
• Provincial Workshop Baulkham Hills April <strong>20</strong>13 (TBC)<br />
/Continued on next page<br />
JUNE Page 12 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT CONT.<br />
Reports: Secretary<br />
Council noted the Secretary’s correspondence report.<br />
Reports: Treasurer<br />
Council resolved to accept the Treasurer’s financial report as tabled at the recent AGM.<br />
handover arrangements should be completed by 11 May <strong>20</strong>13.<br />
Council noted that<br />
Reports: Public Relations Officer<br />
Council resolved to accept the report as circulated. Council also noted it was intended to publish a special<br />
report <strong>of</strong> <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong> integrating this meeting’s outcomes on the strategic plan with the outcomes <strong>of</strong> the<br />
recent provincial workshop. Council also noted that the Communications and Publicity Committee would<br />
review arrangements for disseminating <strong>Eastern</strong> <strong>Link</strong> and possibly incorporating it on a separate page on the<br />
website and publicising it accordingly. Council further noted that Bro Chris Pitts had advised that all Circle<br />
data on the website was now complete (except for some data for Parramatta and Canberra Molonglo) and<br />
that the new email arrangements for Carlingford and Ku Ring Gai were operating satisfactorily.<br />
Reports: Careers and Employment Officer<br />
Position not filled. No report received.<br />
Reports: Supply Officer<br />
Council noted that Bro Phil Davies would liaise with relevant Circles concerning their requirements for<br />
miniatures.<br />
Reports: Provincial Councillors<br />
Council noted the report as circulated.<br />
Other Business<br />
Council noted that Bro Michael Tan would liaise with Bro John Tweedie concerning the development <strong>of</strong> a<br />
visiting schedule for Circles to avoid duplication and overlap.<br />
Next Meeting: the next scheduled meetings for the year were agreed as follows<br />
Close:<br />
• Meeting No 105: Monday 1 July <strong>20</strong>13<br />
• Meeting No 106: Monday 16 September <strong>20</strong>13<br />
• Meeting No 107: Monday <strong>20</strong> January <strong>20</strong>14<br />
• Meeting No 108: Monday 28 April <strong>20</strong>14 (preceded by AGM)<br />
Bro John Tweedie thanked members for their contributions and closed the meeting with prayers at 10.30pm<br />
/Continued on next page<br />
JUNE Page 13 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT CONT.<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21 Corporate Governance: Committee Structure <strong>20</strong>13<br />
All committees are advisory and do not detract in any way from the responsibilities <strong>of</strong> Council <strong>of</strong>fice bearers.<br />
Executive Committee (i) To oversight the activities <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Association in <strong>Province</strong> 21 and to manage the<br />
affairs <strong>of</strong> Provincial Council between its meetings;<br />
(ii) To assist Provincial Council with the<br />
development and implementation <strong>of</strong> strategies for<br />
the good <strong>of</strong> the Association;<br />
President - JT<br />
Vice President- MT<br />
Secretary- GK<br />
Treasurer- PD<br />
Membership and<br />
Strategic Committee<br />
Church Liaison and<br />
Social Events Committee<br />
Communications and<br />
Publicity Committee<br />
Finance and Budgets<br />
Committee<br />
(i) To develop strategies for the growth and<br />
development <strong>of</strong> the Association in <strong>Province</strong> 21;<br />
(ii) To develop and maintain such information<br />
systems as may be appropriate for the efficient and<br />
effective management <strong>of</strong> membership records in<br />
the <strong>Province</strong>;<br />
(iii) To oversight and provide guidance on<br />
Circle procedure and strategies to enhance the<br />
membership experience;<br />
(i) To develop and oversight Church liaison<br />
and social events within the <strong>Province</strong> 1 ;<br />
(ii) To maintain established relationships and<br />
to identify potential new relationships with Church<br />
Ministries which <strong>Province</strong> Council may consider<br />
pursuing.<br />
(i) To develop and oversight suitable<br />
communications arrangements, including through<br />
the internet and Council web sites, which promote<br />
best practice in the <strong>Province</strong> and facilitate good<br />
communications among Circles;<br />
(ii) To develop and maintain the Council web<br />
site;<br />
(iii) To develop suitable strategies for<br />
enhancing the pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong> the Association in the<br />
broader social and Church community.<br />
(i) To assist Council with the development<br />
and oversight <strong>of</strong> its finances and budgets;<br />
Membership Officer - PD<br />
Provincial Records Officer - PM<br />
Chamberlain RW<br />
John O’Grady<br />
Peter Huby<br />
Alan Gorman<br />
Vice President MT<br />
Past President RD<br />
Kevin Devine<br />
Peter Tilbrook<br />
Warren Clarke<br />
Publicity Officer - PC<br />
Webmaster - CP<br />
Rob McLeod<br />
Treasurer- PD<br />
Pat Moran<br />
Noel Tobin<br />
Russel Cooper<br />
1 the role <strong>of</strong> the Committee in relation to current <strong>Province</strong> social events be as follows:<br />
• <strong>Province</strong> Mass – provide advice and practical assistance to the organising Circle, attend to matters <strong>of</strong> protocol; eg. Promotion,<br />
Mass Booklet, Vestments, Ciborium, Entrance Procession, Readers, Stipend etc.;<br />
• <strong>Province</strong> Contests and Golf Day – provide any practical assistance requested by organising Circle; Rules for Contest; arrange<br />
adjudicators for a contest;<br />
• Grand Presidential Tours –organise tour programme, accommodation, informal entertainment and Provincial events;<br />
• <strong>Australia</strong>n Conference - provide supplementary resources to AUSCOM when Conference venue is within <strong>Province</strong> 21,<br />
particularly in relation to associated social functions;<br />
JUNE Page 14 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Brothers Luke Keighery (Ku-Ring-Gai Circle) Graham Short (Mosman Circle), Mike McEvoy (Mosman Circle)<br />
John Tweedie (Mosman Circle) Paul Despoges (Castle Hill Circle)<br />
29 th April – 1 st May 2 0 1 3<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
JUNE Page 15 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
Brothers John Donnelly (Warringah Circle), John Tweedie (Mosman Circle), Jon Horan (Ku-Ring-Gai Circle)<br />
<strong>Catenians</strong> again provide<br />
Voluntary Service to<br />
the Church Community in <strong>Province</strong> 21…<br />
Following the successful involvement <strong>of</strong> brothers from <strong>Province</strong> 21 as volunteers at the Proclaim <strong>20</strong>12<br />
Conference last August, a number <strong>of</strong> Brothers volunteered for a similar role at the recent Mission:<br />
One Heart Many Voices Conference held on 29 April, 30 April and 1 May. The conference<br />
was organised jointly by Catholic Religious <strong>Australia</strong> and Catholic Mission and was held principally at<br />
the Salvation Army Congress Hall in Elizabeth Street Sydney, but with some workshops at the Polding<br />
Centre in Liverpool Street.<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
JUNE Page 16 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
The conference, had as its focus the sharing <strong>of</strong> visions <strong>of</strong> mission by those in leadership roles in<br />
dioceses, parishes, religious communities, lay organisations and church agencies. It attracted over<br />
350 delegates from all over <strong>Australia</strong> and was again a wonderful opportunity to obtain exposure for<br />
our Association among the broader Catholic community. At the same time it presented us with an<br />
opportunity to help cement the fraternal love that binds us as Catenian Brothers, by serving fellow<br />
Catholics (both religious and lay) who are themselves involved in service both in <strong>Australia</strong> and<br />
globally.<br />
In writing about the conference, one member <strong>of</strong> the organizing committee<br />
Fr Noel Connolly said that:<br />
“there was an energy and equality that only mission can bring. We are collaborating in<br />
something much larger than ourselves, God’s life and mission in the world. In recent<br />
decades the Church has spent considerable effort on developing its identity but identity<br />
alone is <strong>of</strong>ten seen in opposition to others and can divide. There is a much more vibrant<br />
sense <strong>of</strong> identity that comes from mission and service and I believe we had more than a<br />
glimpse <strong>of</strong> that during our three days together.”<br />
<br />
These sentiments were felt by us, even as volunteers. In particular we experienced a real sense <strong>of</strong><br />
identity with the delegates and presenters as fellow Catholics working to build the reign <strong>of</strong> God, as<br />
we helped them make their way to their presentations and workshops, assisted them with<br />
registration and with storing their luggage and carried out the many other functions that helped the<br />
conference run so smoothly. There was some complexity in the conference organisation as<br />
workshops were held concurrently in two different city buildings, two blocks apart. Our involvement<br />
was invaluable in ensuring that delegates reached their workshops safely and on time.<br />
A total <strong>of</strong> 13 Catenian Brothers and two family members carried out these many different functions<br />
during the three days <strong>of</strong> the conference. The <strong>Catenians</strong> were Br Ron Daly (City <strong>of</strong> Sydney), Br Pat<br />
Moran (Hornsby), Br Brendan O’Connell (Hornsby, Manly, Mosman), Br Paul Despoges (Castle Hill),<br />
Br Peter Huby (Castle Hill), Br Laurie de Ambrosis (Manly), Br Luke Keighery (Ku Ring Gai), Br Jon<br />
Horan (Ku-Ring-Gai), Br Albert Pinelli (Mosman), Br Graham Short (Mosman, Gold Coast Tweed), Br<br />
Mike McEvoy (Mosman), Br John Tweedie (Mosman) and Br John Donnelly (Warringah). Some<br />
brothers worked for one day, some for two and one for all three days. In addition Pamela and<br />
Katherine Tweedie (wife and daughter <strong>of</strong> Br John Tweedie) both assisted for one day each. Whilst<br />
we had some hectic moments, the whole experience was thoroughly enjoyable.<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
JUNE Page 17 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
One Heart Many Voices Catenian Help Continued…<br />
Our assistance was recognised not only by the organisers but also by many <strong>of</strong> the delegates who<br />
indicated their sincere appreciation to us on many occasions. As with the Proclaim <strong>20</strong>12 Conference<br />
we were again clearly recognisable by our signature blue polo shirts. We also had our Catenian<br />
banner on display and received publicity in the conference booklet. In addition each delegate<br />
received one <strong>of</strong> our pamphlets in their conference pack. We were <strong>of</strong>ten asked who exactly we were<br />
and had plenty <strong>of</strong> opportunity to spread the word about Catenianism among people who showed a<br />
real interest in us.<br />
There were many excellent presentations at the conference and these can be accessed through the<br />
conference website at www.mohmv.com.au. The keynote speaker was Fr Steve Bevans from<br />
Chicago and his presentation was particularly thought provoking.<br />
John Tweedie<br />
Mosman Circle No 330<br />
President <strong>Province</strong> 21<br />
Finally…<br />
The devotedness John Tweedie has shown to the brotherhood <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Catenians</strong> is a fine example <strong>of</strong><br />
what it means to be a leader. John not only made sure that there were enough brothers at cover all<br />
the days <strong>of</strong> the conference, he also made sure that all the positions were filled each day. Not<br />
satisfied with “she’ll be right on the day” every session’s need was covered. John leading by<br />
example also stood at doors, walked up and down the stairs (8 flights) numerous times to ensure<br />
that everything went smoothly.<br />
Why does this represent true brotherly love; because John was not seeking glory for himself but for<br />
God first and then the brotherhood in which we belong. This conference has among the delegates<br />
the clergy that can be influential in opening new areas to the <strong>Catenians</strong>. This has been a fine<br />
example <strong>of</strong> what the brotherhood can do and all brothers should feel that they are capable <strong>of</strong> doing<br />
the same.<br />
Brother Peter Huby, (Castle Hill Circle)<br />
JUNE Page 18 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
AN INVITATION FROM…<br />
PROVINCIAL VICE-PRESIDENT<br />
BROTHER MICHAEL TAN<br />
Dear Brother,<br />
Proposed <strong>Province</strong> 21 Visit to UK Catenian Conference in <strong>20</strong>14<br />
As the Vice-President <strong>of</strong> Provincial Council, I would like to invite you to join me in<br />
attending the <strong>20</strong>14 Catenian Conference in Liverpool from 9 h -11 th May, <strong>20</strong>14. The<br />
Conference promises to be a great time for meeting new friends, and also to get to know<br />
other brothers from <strong>Province</strong> 21 better. I think that it would also be good if we had a<br />
brother from every Circle in <strong>Province</strong> 21 represented in the delegation visiting the<br />
Liverpool Conference, as this would show our UK brothers real evidence <strong>of</strong> the spirit that<br />
animates our brotherhood in <strong>Australia</strong>.<br />
Please consider whether you would be interested in attending the Conference, and feel free<br />
to ask any questions, and let your Provincial Councillor know your interest. Could all<br />
Provincial Councillors please let me know your Circle's interest by the time <strong>of</strong> our next<br />
meeting?<br />
Fraternally,<br />
Brother Michael Tan<br />
Provincial Vice-President<br />
21 May <strong>20</strong>13<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION<br />
AUSTRALIA<br />
JUNE Page 19 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
POPE FRANCIS I…<br />
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL PICTURE...<br />
POPE FRANCIS WAS WAVING AT THE PEOPLE AT SAINT PETER'S<br />
SQUARE<br />
AT HIS WEDNESDAY GENERAL AUDIENCE WHEN<br />
INCREDIBLY, A DOVE PERCHED ON HIS HAND!<br />
MAKES YOU THINK... DOESN'T IT?<br />
Sent in by Brother Kevin Doherty<br />
VIVA LA PAPA POPE FRANCIS!!!<br />
JUNE Page <strong>20</strong> <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
P<br />
R<br />
O<br />
V<br />
I<br />
N<br />
C<br />
I<br />
A<br />
L<br />
M<br />
A<br />
S<br />
S<br />
2<br />
0<br />
1<br />
3<br />
provincial mass<br />
at<br />
St Joseph’s Centre at Baulkham Hills<br />
ON<br />
on Sunday 28 th July <strong>20</strong>13 at 12.30pm<br />
Fr John McSweeney, Dean <strong>of</strong> St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Parramatta<br />
Singing will be lead by Bro Phil Murray – Canberra Circle 331<br />
Followed by lunch at 1.15pm<br />
Circle Secretaries should RSVP Bro Michael Tan by 6 July <strong>20</strong>13<br />
at parrasecretary@yahoo.com.au<br />
All Brothers and their Families are invited to join in this annual celebration <strong>of</strong> the Eucharist by <strong>Province</strong> 21.<br />
Prayers will be said for all our deceased Brothers<br />
Our brotherhood stems from the practice <strong>of</strong> perfect charity. Our spirituality is uniqely Catenian<br />
JUNE Page 21 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
MOSMAN CIRCLE<br />
is pleased to announce that the<br />
O’CONNELL CUP <strong>20</strong>13<br />
will be held on<br />
THURSDAY, 8TH AUGUST, <strong>20</strong>13<br />
at MOSMAN COMMUNITY CENTRE,<br />
CNR VISTA ST AND ART GALLERY WAY, MOSMAN<br />
Meeting at 6.45 pm for 7.15 pm<br />
Join us to see which Circle will win this coveted trophy in <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Dinner cost is $60 per person<br />
RSVP Brother Mike McEvoy 0418 489 703 or<br />
mmcevoy@bigpond.net.au<br />
By no later than Monday 5th August <strong>20</strong>13<br />
JUNE Page 22 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
21<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE<br />
CITY OF SYDNEY CIRCLE 263<br />
FOUNDATION DINNER<br />
TO COMMEMORATE<br />
THE INAUGURATION<br />
OF THE CITY OF<br />
SYDNEY CIRCLE 263<br />
ON THE 22 ND JULY<br />
1971 WE ARE<br />
AGAIN HOLDING OUR<br />
FOUNDATION<br />
DINNER. THIS IS<br />
HELD ANNUALLY ON<br />
THE FIRST<br />
WEDNESDAY IN<br />
JULY. CITY OF<br />
SYDNEY CIRCLE 263<br />
WAS THE<br />
FOUNDATION CIRCLE<br />
OF THE CATENIAN<br />
ASSOCIATION IN<br />
AUSTRALIA!<br />
You are cordially invited to a ladies night on Thursday 3 rd July <strong>20</strong>13<br />
on the 1 st floor <strong>of</strong> the Occidental Hotel at corner <strong>of</strong> York and Erskine Streets Sydney<br />
Please contact Br. Ian Milne by Thursday 27th June phone 9929 4423<br />
or Email milneiank@gmail.com if you are attending.<br />
JUNE Page 23 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta Circle…<br />
CONGRATULATIONS BROTHER PHIL…<br />
Brother Phil, wife Margaret their son & daughter<br />
Brother Phil Russo, a Foundation<br />
Brother <strong>of</strong> the City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta<br />
Circle, and Past-Circle President, was<br />
recently presented with the Order <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Australia</strong> by the Governor-General <strong>of</strong><br />
New South Wales, Marie Bashir, for<br />
services to the local community <strong>of</strong><br />
Parramatta. In particular, Brother Phil<br />
has worked tirelessly to promote<br />
reconciliation between the indigenous<br />
communities <strong>of</strong> Parramatta, and the<br />
rest <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Australia</strong>n community. We<br />
congratulate Brother Phil on his<br />
award, and wish him and his wife,<br />
Margaret all the best on this joyous<br />
occasion.<br />
/Brother Michael Tan<br />
JUNE Page 24 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Gold Coast Tweed Circle 357…<br />
31st meeting <strong>of</strong> the Gold Coast Tweed Circle 357<br />
held on 16 th April, <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Formal Meeting: 6:30 p.m. opened by retiring President, Brother Kevin Devine who according to<br />
set procedure installed Brother Peter Cossins as President for the <strong>20</strong>13/<strong>20</strong>14 term.<br />
The following brothers were installed by the new President for the ensuing year:<br />
Brother Andrew Denny: Vice-President<br />
Brother Tom Lyons: Secretary<br />
Brother John Brown: Treasurer<br />
Brother Paul Bellhouse: Membership Officer<br />
Brother Don McLellan: Chamberlain<br />
Brother Keith Furniss: Marshall<br />
Brother Stewart Meek: Registrar<br />
Brother Errol Daranjo: Assistant Secretary<br />
Brother Alex Lever: Assistant Registrar<br />
A special welcome was accorded to Brother Paul Despoges from Castle Hill Circle. Brother Paul<br />
Despoges spoke briefly about the Grand President’s tour <strong>of</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> next year and the planned<br />
Restructure <strong>of</strong> the Catenian Association which when finalised will mean reduced costs and more<br />
independence for the countries concerned.<br />
During dinner, Lt Col (retired) Brian Vickery, gave members a very interesting insight into his work<br />
with the Gurkha regiment while he was in active service. His presentation was much appreciated<br />
by all present. The new President; Brother Peter Cossins gave a vote <strong>of</strong> thanks to Brian.<br />
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION<br />
Gold Coast Tweed Circle 357<br />
Meetings: 6:00pm 3rd Tuesday <strong>of</strong> month (EST)<br />
St Monica’s Parish Centre, 485 Golden Four Drive, Tugun<br />
JUNE Page 25 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Father Greg Bourke OFM Guest Speaker at Manly May meeting<br />
NEWS FROM MANLY<br />
CIRCLE…<br />
Father Greg Bourke was educated by<br />
the Franciscans and was ordained as<br />
a priest <strong>of</strong> the order in 1964.<br />
He always had only one aim and<br />
vocation in life – that was to serve as<br />
a Franciscan missionary in Papua<br />
New Guinea.<br />
In 1965 he was sent to New Guinea<br />
as a missionary and has remained<br />
serving as a missionary up to the<br />
present day. On his arrival in New<br />
Guinea in 1965 he was attached to<br />
the Aitape diocese where he was<br />
posted to the remote missions.<br />
These missions were such that his<br />
only contact with the outside world<br />
was a radio by which he was able to<br />
keep abreast with the current news.<br />
During this time he was engaged in bringing the message <strong>of</strong> Christ to local people – and at<br />
the same time setting up for the first time in their villages - schools, clinics and churches. Fr<br />
Greg continued with these activities for a period <strong>of</strong> 10 years.<br />
In 1975 he was appointed head <strong>of</strong> the Franciscan Order in New Guinea at which time there<br />
were about 30 missionaries in the province.<br />
For the next 10 years Greg was involved in running the Order and working with and training<br />
the seminarians in the province.<br />
In 1990 Greg was appointed Vicar General <strong>of</strong> the diocese a post which he still holds till this<br />
day.<br />
He and Manly President Brother John Kiely (both pictured above) started school together in<br />
country NSW. After coming back to Sydney to get some health issues “sorted.” Father Greg<br />
expects to return to PNG soon.<br />
/Brother Terry Hayes<br />
JUNE Page 26 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
CITY OF PARRAMATTA<br />
CIRCLE<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
You are invited to attend…<br />
CITY OF PARRAMATTA<br />
CIRCLE’s<br />
150 TH MEETING<br />
On<br />
Thursday 26th September <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Commence time is 6.45 p.m. for a 7.15 p.m. start<br />
At<br />
Lachlans Restaurant<br />
Old Government House, Parramatta<br />
Guest Speaker:<br />
June Barrett, diocesan Archivist, who will speak on<br />
“The History <strong>of</strong> the Catholic Church in Parramatta”<br />
Please contact:<br />
John Green on 02 96307094<br />
THIS IS A LADIES NIGHT<br />
JUNE Page 27 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Pittwater Circle…<br />
“humorous and entertaining”…<br />
From left; Mrs McLean, Brother Don and Past Circle President’s wife Cheryl Maynard<br />
The March meeting <strong>of</strong> Pittwater Circle had the pleasure <strong>of</strong> hosting a visit <strong>of</strong> Brother Don<br />
McLean, a member <strong>of</strong> Solihull Circle in the U.K. He is a pr<strong>of</strong>essional comedian and also a<br />
Papal Knight.<br />
He gave the attending <strong>Catenians</strong> and their ladies a very humorous and entertaining<br />
demonstration <strong>of</strong> his comedic talents, and has been among the most popular <strong>of</strong> our dinner<br />
speakers.<br />
THE CATENIANS<br />
strengthening family life<br />
through friendship & faith<br />
JUNE Page 28 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More news from Pittwater Circle…<br />
OLD AND NEW OFFICER’S AT<br />
PITTWATTER CIRLE…<br />
Brother Gavin & Brother Ken<br />
Brother Ken & Brother Mike<br />
Brother Ken & Brother Paul<br />
Brothers Barry, Peter & Kevin<br />
Pittwater Circle held its changeover meeting on April 10, at Long Reef Golf Clubhouse. The following Brothers<br />
were honoured by incoming President Brother Ken Halliday-:<br />
• Outgoing President Brother Mike Maynard for superb leadership accompanied by provision <strong>of</strong> prizes for<br />
raffles and very tasty refreshments at council meetings.<br />
• Retiring Secretary Brother Gavin Williamson for untiring work for the circle over many years.<br />
• Treasurer Brother Paul Day, who has served in this role for nine years and done a great job. He has now<br />
added the role <strong>of</strong> Provincial Treasurer to his duties.<br />
Brothers Barry McNamara and Kevin Doherty who assisted Brothers Peter McDonald and Ian Currie in winning<br />
the provincial golf trophy at the recent competition and which Brother. Peter is holding. Brother Peter had the<br />
best score on the day.<br />
/Brother Peter McGoldrick<br />
JUNE Page 29 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle…<br />
INCOMING – OUTGOING AT KU-RING-GAI…<br />
New Officers for the coming year for Ku-Ring-Gai<br />
Circle are; left to right: Stim Robinson (Treasurer),<br />
Justin Gardener (Vice-President), Martin Stebbings<br />
(Registrar) and Garry McIntosh (President)<br />
Alain La Touche addressed members and spoke <strong>of</strong> his<br />
background as a French Mauritian who lived a time in<br />
South Africa where he met his wife. He learnt English<br />
at the University <strong>of</strong> Johannesburg and went on to<br />
become an accountant. He has two children and is a<br />
member <strong>of</strong> Corpus Christi St Ives and rates football as<br />
his favourite sport.<br />
New member for Ku-Ring-Gai Circle is John<br />
Holdsworth. Married with two children he lives in<br />
Pymble. He has an Ag Chem degree from the<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Sydney and spent some time in the<br />
wine making industry and is now in plastics. A keen<br />
golfer and rugby follower and is also a scout leader.<br />
At Ku-Ring-Gai's April Circle meeting the following<br />
outgoing Officers received their miniatures for<br />
service to the Circle; left to right: Malcolm McEwen<br />
(President), Martin Dando ( Registrar) and Charlie<br />
Murton (Treasurer)<br />
JUNE Page 30 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta Circle…<br />
WELCOME STEPHEN…<br />
The brothers <strong>of</strong> the City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta circle were delighted to enrol Stephen Moran as a new<br />
brother at our last meeting. Stephen is the son <strong>of</strong> Brother Vic Moran, a founding brother <strong>of</strong><br />
the City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta Circle, and our Circle Treasurer. Stephen is married to Virginia and to<br />
complete the family have a six-year-old daughter Natasha. Stephen is a Senior Constable in<br />
Parramatta district <strong>of</strong> Sydney. Pictured are Stephen in the middle, flanked by Circle President<br />
Xavier Lim and his father, Vic Moran. Naturally, as Circle Treasurer, Brother Vic ensured that<br />
Stephen had paid his fees prior to enrolment!<br />
/Brother Michael Tan<br />
SNIPPET FROM PARRAMATTA CIRCLE;<br />
Our Guest Speaker in April<br />
We hosted Br. Bernard Buffin as our guest speaker in April. Br. Bernard works as a Chaplain at Parklea Prison,<br />
and he gave a very informative sharing <strong>of</strong> his work with the prisoners there. Thank-you, Br. Bernard, for your<br />
sharing, which was both informative and educational.<br />
It was interesting that we had in the audience a Police Officer, a Solicitor and a Doctor, who all have<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional involvement in one way or other with these prisoners.<br />
It would be interesting to see if we can have a follow up on how best to look after these <strong>of</strong>fenders, as our faith<br />
calls us to love the sinner while hating the sin … we must be compassionate without being naïve, at the same<br />
time as tempering justice with the mercy <strong>of</strong> God.<br />
/Brother Michael Tan<br />
JUNE Page 31 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
More News from Sydney Circle…<br />
“Cherry Blossom Tour” <strong>of</strong> Japan…<br />
Brother Peter and Lorelie O’Reilly have returned safely after a wonderful “Cherry Blossom<br />
Tour” <strong>of</strong> Japan. It was a small group <strong>of</strong> 14 “seniors” with a most pleasant, knowledgeable<br />
and organised guide, Saeko Yashita who looked after us like a mother hen. We were<br />
fortunate to see heaps <strong>of</strong> cherry blossoms on the trees in varying shades <strong>of</strong> pink through to<br />
white.<br />
All the party were impressed with the courtesy <strong>of</strong> the Japanese people, the cleanliness <strong>of</strong><br />
every area visited, the speed and punctuality <strong>of</strong> the trains, the sea <strong>of</strong> black suits in Tokyo and<br />
the very moving atomic peace park and museum in Hiroshima.<br />
Our party visited Tokyo, Kyoto Hiroshima, Kanazawa and mountain villages.<br />
In all a most memorable holiday!<br />
JUNE Page 32 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More news from City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle…<br />
Congratulations John…<br />
Our meeting in May <strong>20</strong>13 had an attendance <strong>of</strong> 19 brothers (50%) with 16 apologies and three non-apologies.<br />
Brother President Tom Boyce (pictured left) presented Brother V/President John Crawford with his Treasurer’s<br />
miniature for his dedicated service over the past 7 years to keep our Circle solvent.<br />
MESSAGE FROM BROTHER PLUNKETT SWEENEY…<br />
Bro Plunkett Sweeney our founder president in 1971 is home from<br />
hospital and has said to me that his “passage to greener pastures”<br />
has been delayed! The investigations in hospital showed that he had<br />
severe diverticulitis but no cancerous growths. I spoke to him today<br />
(9587 7746) and he was in good spirits. Plunkett and his wife Joyce<br />
are from Ireland via Brighton (Hove Circle) in England but are very<br />
much Aussies except for their accents! He apologised that he could<br />
not attend the meetings but follows the Circle and brothers via the<br />
newsletters and Catena. Plunkett was born 9/02/1921 and is still a<br />
prolific reader! He is devotee <strong>of</strong> Cardinal Newman and quotes his<br />
teachings at “the drop <strong>of</strong> a hat”.<br />
/Brother Peter O’Reilly<br />
JUNE Page 33 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
SYDNEY CIRCLE BROTHER MIKE<br />
VISITS POOLE CIRCLE…<br />
From left; Mike being greeted by Acting President Mike Garnish with far right, Brother Mike’s Brother Bernard<br />
Visitor to Poole Circle from<br />
City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle, Brother<br />
Mike Tighe presented Acting<br />
President Mike Garnish with a<br />
Provincial Tie from <strong>Province</strong><br />
21. Poole Circle has a longstanding<br />
connection to<br />
<strong>Australia</strong> through being<br />
twinned with Cairns, through<br />
Peter Cash who was<br />
previously a Brother <strong>of</strong> Poole<br />
Circle. Accompanying Brother<br />
Mike on his visit to Poole<br />
Circle was his brother Bernard,<br />
who is a Brother <strong>of</strong><br />
neighbouring Bournemouth<br />
Circle. Brother Erik Johnson<br />
Pictured left; Brother Mike presenting<br />
Poole Circle's Acting President<br />
Brother Mike Garnish with the<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21 Provincial tie<br />
JUNE Page 34 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from City <strong>of</strong> Cairns Circle…<br />
From Left; Brother Michael, President Joe and newly enrolled Brother Mike<br />
June’s meeting was an outstanding one!!! In a unique ceremony, Brother President Joe<br />
enrolled Michael Schramm Senior into the Circle. (Now known as Brother Mike). It is normally<br />
the other way around, fathers normally enrol sons!!! Brother Mike has seen his son Brother<br />
Michael, attending Catenian Meetings <strong>of</strong> the City <strong>of</strong> Cairns Circle and decided to come along<br />
and see what it is all about. Mike is married to Glenys and used to be in the electrical retail<br />
industry before retirement, and managed a local electrical retail store for 45 years before<br />
retiring about 10 years ago. During this time he also was appointed as a director to national<br />
electrical buying group which he served for many years. Mike is also one <strong>of</strong> the few people<br />
who live in Cairns who was actually born here. Mike who retired has just taken delivery <strong>of</strong> a<br />
new Motor Caravan and he and Glenys is looking forward to spending time touring around<br />
<strong>Australia</strong>. Mike has been married to Glenys for nearly 48 years. They have four children -<br />
Michael, Julie Barry & Peter and 11 grandchildren ranging from 23 to 2 years <strong>of</strong> age.<br />
JUNE Page 35 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More news from City <strong>of</strong> Cairn Circle’s…<br />
TWO GUEST SPEAKERS AT OUR JUNE MEETING!!!<br />
From left; Brothers Peter, Joe, Simon, Father Neil, Brother Tony, Andrew McKenzie, Brother Gary,<br />
Paul Hough, & Brothers Mike, Matthew, Michael<br />
City <strong>of</strong> Cairns Circle had two Guest<br />
Speakers at their June meeting; Brother<br />
Paul Hough, Executive Director, Catholic<br />
Educational Services and Andrew McKenzie,<br />
Business Services Manager, Catholic<br />
Educational Service.<br />
Both did a brilliant insight to the current<br />
projects being employed by the Catholic<br />
Educational Services at the moment.<br />
Brother President Joe thanked them both for<br />
attending our dinner and their<br />
presentations.<br />
Brother Paul Hough may be familiar to some<br />
<strong>of</strong> our Catenian Brothers and their families<br />
in the Sydney area.<br />
President Joe with right Brother Paul Hough<br />
Brother Paul was appointed Headmaster, St<br />
Gregory’s College, Campbelltown, NSW for<br />
nine years, then as Headmaster, St Joseph’s<br />
College, Hunters Hill, NSW until <strong>20</strong>06.<br />
JUNE Page 36 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Gold Coast Tweed Circle May Meeting…<br />
Brother Brian talks about St Vincent de Paul<br />
Society…<br />
Brother Brian gave an interesting insight into how the St Vincent de Paul Society operates in<br />
South Queensland. Brian – who is a Vincentian himself – spoke with great compassion about<br />
the Society and how it helps the less fortunate than ourselves. Brother President Peter<br />
thanked him for his very interesting, captivating talk.<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION<br />
JUNE Page 37 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Canberra Circle’s 331 & 340…<br />
A JOINT WEEKEND AT BATHURST…<br />
Group at Abercrombie House<br />
Brothers and wives <strong>of</strong> the two Canberra Circles (331 and 340) visited the regional city <strong>of</strong> Bathurst over<br />
the weekend 13-15 April. Both Circles have developed a tradition to have a joint weekend away once a<br />
year to develop our friendships and foster our fraternal love. The historic inland city <strong>of</strong> Bathurst (est<br />
1815) was the choice this year. Under the guidance <strong>of</strong> Bro Paul Scholtens (340), the program <strong>of</strong><br />
activity included such highlights as:<br />
• A tour <strong>of</strong> the old cathedral <strong>of</strong> St Michael and St John, followed by Mass<br />
• Dinner with Bishop Michael McKenna on Saturday night and some singing entertainment by<br />
Bro Phil Murray (331)<br />
• Breakfast and tour <strong>of</strong> Abercrombie House on Sunday, followed by<br />
• Tour <strong>of</strong> Ben Chifley’s home (<strong>Australia</strong>’s post war prime minister), St Stanislaus’ Catholic Boys<br />
College and the famed Mt Panorama Car racing circuit<br />
• Mt Piper power station on Monday completed the program.<br />
The party comprised some 35 brothers and wives who travelled to Bathurst by car though the regional<br />
towns <strong>of</strong> Cowra and Carcoar and home via Oberon and Goulburn. The weather was fantastically<br />
autumn and the company exceptionally fraternal. /Brother George Kazs<br />
/Cont.<br />
JUNE Page 38 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
A JOINT WEEKEND AT BATHURST<br />
Continued…<br />
Irene and Brother Paul Scholtens<br />
with Bishop Michael McKenna<br />
From left; Brother’s Jeff Cowley (President<br />
Circle 331), Frank Long (340) and Norm Russell<br />
and Robin Wells (Provincial Councillor 331)<br />
Welcome to Canberra 331 New<br />
President and Vice-President…<br />
Like other Circles <strong>of</strong> the Association, Canberra<br />
331 effected a changing <strong>of</strong> the guard at its<br />
April meeting. Brother John McWilliam<br />
(pictured right) assumes the Presidency while<br />
Brother Tom Davies (on the left) became Vice<br />
President. Congratulations from the Circle.<br />
Brothers look forward to an exciting year. The<br />
development <strong>of</strong> our membership enhancement<br />
strategy took another step forward with a good<br />
discussion <strong>of</strong> the draft at the April meeting<br />
lead by MO Brother Peter Polkinghorne.<br />
JUNE Page 39 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More news from Canberra 331 Newsletter…<br />
CANBERRERA 331 & CANBERRA 340 JUNE JOINT MEETING…<br />
From left; Shirley and Sue McWilliam<br />
The Circle celebrated its 172nd meeting jointly with Circle 340 in June. A ladies dinner<br />
followed with Mrs Shirley Sutton as guest speaker. Shirley spoke about the formation <strong>of</strong> her<br />
recently published centenary book entitled "the history <strong>of</strong> district and community health<br />
nursing in the ACT 1911 to <strong>20</strong>11 - 100 years”.<br />
The book is sub-titled “Caring for the Community - rain, hail or shine” and features a young<br />
Sue McWilliam on the cover - hence the cloak worn by Sue at the presentation.<br />
This was a real life “call the midwife” story.<br />
/Brother Art Ringer<br />
JUNE Page 40 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
News from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle…<br />
MAY CIRCLE MEETING<br />
Fr. Johnny Arattukulam (centre), Assistant Priest <strong>of</strong> Corpus Christi Parish St Ives<br />
with Brother Ric Camilleri (left) and new President Garry McIntosh at Ku-Ring-Gai's May Circle Meeting<br />
Phil Davies, former President Ku-Ring-Gai Circle receiving the Harold Wilmott Trophy awarded to a Brother who<br />
has given outstanding service during the year for the good <strong>of</strong> the Circle<br />
JUNE Page 41 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
MAY CIRCLE MEETING Continued…<br />
From left; Gerry Hoy, Alain La Touche & John Stone<br />
From left; Brothers Michael Burke & Charlie Thomson<br />
From left; Brothers Jack Garcia, Luke Keighery<br />
& Martin Stebbings<br />
Father Johnny Arattukulam selected himself in the<br />
name tag draw and receives a bottle <strong>of</strong> wine.<br />
JUNE Page 42 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More news from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle…<br />
JUNE CIRCLE MEETING<br />
Brother Phil Davies, former President Ku-Ring-Gai Circle<br />
lays down the rules for "Call My Bluff' at the June Ladies night.<br />
JUNE Page 43 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
JUNE CIRCLE MEETING Continued…<br />
Call My Bluff continued…<br />
Winning men’s team on the night were from (left to right) Brothers Claude Jugmans, Ken Anania<br />
and Patrick Raper who were presented their prizes by Brother Treasurer Stim Robinson<br />
Ladies team for Ku-Ring-Gai's "Call My Bluff" night were from (left to right) Catherine Wales<br />
Raylee Edwards and Belinda Camilleri.<br />
JUNE Page 44 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
JUNE CIRCLE MEETING Continued…<br />
Call My Bluff continued…<br />
Brother President Garry McIntosh and wife Carmel at the Ku-Ring-Gai Circle Ladies night<br />
enjoyed the game <strong>of</strong> "Call My Bluff".<br />
Ku-Ring-Gai's June Circle and Ladies night featured a game <strong>of</strong> "Call My Bluff" run by former<br />
President Brother Phil Davies featuring two teams, one ladies and one men’s.<br />
Each team was given three obscure words. Each team member had to give their version <strong>of</strong> the<br />
meaning <strong>of</strong> each word. Only one member <strong>of</strong> the panel is telling the truth for each word.<br />
One member <strong>of</strong> the opposing team declares which version he/she thinks is correct and explains<br />
why.<br />
The other team then says whether the answer was True or False. The process is then repeated<br />
with the other team giving definitions for another word. There were six rounds in all. It was very<br />
funny – all the panel members did a great job.<br />
/Brother John White<br />
JUNE Page 45 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
More News from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle June Meeting…<br />
WELCOME PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT BROTHER JOHN & PAMELA…<br />
At our June meeting, we were honoured to have present the newly installed <strong>Province</strong> 21 President,<br />
Brother John Tweedie and his wife Pamela. John’s visit to Ku-Ring-Gai Circle is the first <strong>of</strong> his planned<br />
visits to all <strong>of</strong> the Circles in the <strong>Province</strong>. John and Pam are here seen with KRG Provincial Councillor<br />
Brother Chris Pitts.<br />
COMING EVENTS AT KU-RING-GAI…<br />
Saturday 6 July: Ku-Ring-Gai Catenian Circle Mass for Vocations at Corpus Christi, St Ives to be celebrated by<br />
Father Greg Homeming. Mass at 6:00pm will be followed by Dinner to be arranged at a nearby restaurant.<br />
Brothers and families are encouraged to attend the mass in company with other members <strong>of</strong> the Circle and<br />
should let Brother Phil Davies know if they are able to join in dinner afterwards.<br />
Monday 8 July: Circle meeting at Checkers, “Coast to Coast in the UK.” A talk by Brother Jim Phelan about his<br />
recent trip to the UK and his experiences on the Wainwright Walk.<br />
JUNE Page 46 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
Brothers and families attending the Catenian Mass at Westminster Cathedral<br />
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION<br />
Strengthening family life<br />
through friendship and faith<br />
JUNE Page 47 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
City <strong>of</strong> Parramatta and Mosman Circle’s Brother Ed van Riet and Joanne, recently attended the<br />
Conference Mass at Westminster Cathedral. It was a special Mass especially for the <strong>Catenians</strong>.<br />
Brother Ed and Joanne are on a European tour and were in London on Ascension Day, 11 th May.<br />
JUNE Page 48 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
V.A.C.<br />
CITY OF MELBOURNE CIRCLE<br />
WELCOME UK BROTHER DAMIAN…<br />
Damian (seated) with President Brother Greg Lynch, Vice-President Brother Adam Trajer and<br />
Brother Joe Brick enjoying the shade at President’s Sunday. Damian purchased a pair <strong>of</strong> shorts not<br />
long after!!!<br />
City <strong>of</strong> Melbourne’s President’s Sunday had an extra guest this year, Damian Butler, Morpeth<br />
Circle had arrived in Melbourne the week prior. Damian was given an especially warm welcome as<br />
Melbourne was setting a record for the warmest February on record with 10 consecutive days over<br />
30 degrees ! He is spending eight weeks based in Melbourne with his company and besides<br />
attending President’s Sunday he has managed to attend to Circle meetings and has enjoyed<br />
Catenian hospitality down under.<br />
JUNE Page 49 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
V.A.C.<br />
ANOTHER NEW BROTHER JOINS<br />
CITY OF MELBOURNE E CIRCLE…<br />
The new and the long serving: Pat O’Haire (centre) City <strong>of</strong> Melbourne’s newest Brother, Con Lilley<br />
(right) a founding Brother and President Greg Lynch (left) on the celebration <strong>of</strong> Melbourne’s 350 th<br />
celebration<br />
In February, the City <strong>of</strong> Melbourne celebrated its 350 th meeting by hosting the Visitors Decanter for the<br />
third time. Area President Will Kininmonth proposed the toast to Circle congratulating its Brothers on<br />
achieving this milestone and wishing all continued growth for years to come. It was therefore<br />
appropriate for the latest Brother, Pat O’Haire to be enrolled on the meeting. Pat’s waiting period for<br />
enrolment was longer than most as upon deciding to join he took a role in the mining industry based in<br />
<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>. Working on a rotational shift pattern it took eight months for Pat to be in Melbourne<br />
on a scheduled Circle meeting.<br />
Pat, born in Castlebar, Co. Mayo Ireland, emigrated to <strong>Australia</strong> with his wife Connie in 1994 originally<br />
settling in Sydney before settling in Melbourne in <strong>20</strong>00. Pat and Connie met when they both worked on<br />
the construction <strong>of</strong> the English Tunnel. Pat & Connie are members <strong>of</strong> the Parish <strong>of</strong> Nazareth, Rickett’s<br />
Point and have two children, Eilis and Will who are both at University in Melbourne.<br />
The Circle is guaranteed an interesting evening when Pat gets to speak about his lifestyle <strong>of</strong> flying to<br />
work every month for 21 days <strong>of</strong> consecutive work in temperatures generally above 40 degrees.<br />
/Brother Greg Lynch<br />
JUNE Page 50 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK<br />
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
PROVINCE 21<br />
Brothers who are seeking employment are invited to post their details below. Replies will be passed<br />
onto the concerned Brother discreetly through the Editor. They will only be identifiable on the page<br />
through a code number which only the Editor and the Brother concerned knows.<br />
CATENIAN SEEKS…<br />
Experienced General Manager looking for employment in an administration role in sales, marketing, or<br />
general administration in wholesale sales, manufacturing, logistics or warehousing environment.<br />
More than thirty years senior management experience in a wholesale sales environment working with<br />
overseas manufacturers.<br />
Experience includes sales management (up to 40 staff), marketing, inventory planning and procurement,<br />
warehousing, financial budgeting and reporting, debtor’s management, and general business<br />
administration.<br />
Qualifications in Quality Assurance and General Business administration including MBA (University <strong>of</strong> Hull<br />
GB)<br />
DAUGHTER OF CATENIAN…<br />
YOUR DETAILS COULD BE HERE FOR<br />
POTENIAL EMPLOYERS TO SEE…<br />
SON OF CATENIAN…<br />
YOUR DETAILS COULD BE HERE FOR<br />
POTENIAL EMPLOYERS TO SEE…<br />
Prospective Employers; please contact me by telephone or email, if you would like to get in touch with<br />
any <strong>of</strong> the above Brothers/Families who are actively seeking employment. Everything will be handled<br />
in a discreet manner. A reminder <strong>of</strong> my telephone no’s:- Home: 0740553529 – Mobile: 0415846565 –<br />
Email: petercash@btinternet.com<br />
JUNE Page 51 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Mary’s Rosary Chain is a Rosary Devotion to<br />
Our Blessed Mother, where people are<br />
invited and encouraged to pray one decade<br />
<strong>of</strong> (10 Hail Mary’s) each day in communion<br />
with other participants in this great powerful<br />
chain <strong>of</strong> prayer. The great benefit <strong>of</strong> praying<br />
(one decade) <strong>of</strong> the Rosary each day in<br />
union with tens <strong>of</strong> thousands <strong>of</strong> other<br />
participants around the world is the<br />
abundant fold Grace <strong>of</strong> Combined Prayers<br />
together with the Daily Prayers <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Pauline Order for the needs and intentions<br />
<strong>of</strong> the participants.<br />
All participants are invited to enrol their<br />
Names on a list and have their Names<br />
permanently placed under the Blessed<br />
Sacrament in a Monastery <strong>of</strong> St Paul the<br />
First Hermit, “Shrine <strong>of</strong> Our Lady <strong>of</strong> Mercy”,<br />
Penrose Park, NSW or “Our Lady Help <strong>of</strong><br />
Christians”, Marian Valley, Canungra, QLD,<br />
where the Order will pray daily for their<br />
intentions, also, Holy Mass is celebrated for<br />
all the participants every Saturday.<br />
The Order <strong>of</strong> St Paul the First Hermit have<br />
warmly welcomed this Devotion and have<br />
given their full support and blessing for the<br />
inspiring Rosary Cards to be distributed and<br />
promoted wherever possible to encourage<br />
the people <strong>of</strong> God and especially children<br />
and youth to pray through the intercession<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Mother <strong>of</strong> God for the many urgent<br />
needs <strong>of</strong> the Holy Church and the world in<br />
general.<br />
Further information can be obtained from:-<br />
Mary’s Rosary Chain Inc. P.O. Box 3127, St.<br />
Mary’s South, NSW 2760 Please Telephone<br />
Jeffrey Vassallo on 0288077888/0424032<strong>20</strong>0<br />
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EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
St Mary <strong>of</strong> the Cross MacKillop Prayer…<br />
Ever generous God,<br />
You inspired Saint Mary MacKillop<br />
To live her life faithful to the Gospel <strong>of</strong><br />
Jesus Christ and constant in bringing hope and Encouragement to those who were disheartened,<br />
lonely or needy.<br />
With confidence in your generous providence and through the intercession <strong>of</strong> Saint Mary MacKillop.<br />
We ask that you grant our request……………….<br />
We ask that our faith and hope be fired afresh by the Holy Spirit so that we too, like Mary MacKillop,<br />
may live with courage, trust and openness.<br />
Ever generous God hear our prayer.<br />
We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.<br />
Do you know Any Catholic men In the Adelaide area???<br />
And you think they could be Potential Catenian Brothers<br />
Please contact Brother Michael P Cogman, Joondalup Circle No 339<br />
Telephone (08) 8278 1443<br />
Brother Michael is trying to start a new Group in Adelaide<br />
and needs to find Potential Brothers<br />
PROVINCE 21 WEBSITE…<br />
Brother Chris Pitts has upgraded the <strong>Province</strong> 21 website<br />
please visit it at:-<br />
http://www.thecatenianassociation.org.au/<br />
Plenty to see there with numerous links to other Catenian websites<br />
JUNE Page 53 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
WHAT DOES THE YEAR OF GRACE ASK OF US?<br />
The Catholic Bishops <strong>of</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>) invite you to walk this journey with them in hope. We commit<br />
ourselves to:<br />
Pray daily seeking the mind and heart <strong>of</strong> Jesus Christ<br />
Repent for the areas in which we have failed individually and together<br />
Pursue the path <strong>of</strong> holiness cultivating the gifts <strong>of</strong> the Spirit and seeking to grow as disciples <strong>of</strong><br />
Jesus<br />
Seek the guidance <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit so that the Church <strong>of</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> will be transformed by the<br />
power <strong>of</strong> Christ’s resurrection in our lives.<br />
(Excerpt from the Year <strong>of</strong> Grace Pastoral letter <strong>of</strong> Archbishop Wilson on behalf <strong>of</strong> the Catholic Bishops<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> <strong>20</strong> November <strong>20</strong>11.)<br />
All Brothers are encouraged to visit other Circles. If the opportunity<br />
arises please contact the appropriate Catering Officer listed below.<br />
CITY OF CAIRNS 3 rd Thu<br />
Peter Cash 07 4055 3529 – petercash@btinternet.com<br />
CANBERRA 3rd Thu.<br />
Russell Sweeney 6291 4604<br />
CANBERRA/MOLONGLO 1st Wed.<br />
Julian Flynn, 6255 1579<br />
CARLINGFORD 3rd Tue.<br />
Stan Burgin 9871 2449<br />
CASTLE HILL 4th Tue<br />
Paul Despoges 8850 0956<br />
GOLD COAST TWEED GROUP 3 rd Tues<br />
Errol Daranjo 07 5576-0019<br />
HORNSBY 1st Thu<br />
Peter Andersen 0412 669 462<br />
KU-RING-GAI 2nd Mon<br />
Phil Davies 9440 4299<br />
MANLY 3rd Wed<br />
Michael van Ommen 9452 5282.<br />
MOSMAN 2nd Thu<br />
Mike McEvoy 9968 1777<br />
PARAMATTA 4 th Thu<br />
John Green on 02 96307094<br />
PITTWATER 2nd Wed<br />
Rex Harding 9944 0886 – rexharding@optusnet.com.au<br />
CITY OF SYDNEY 1st Wed<br />
John Crawford 9240 4975<br />
WARRINGAH 4th Wed<br />
Bill Carney on 9451 2144<br />
VICTORIAN CIRCLES<br />
CITY OF MELBOURNE 4th Mon<br />
Adam Trajer 03 9584 1134<br />
WAVERLEY 1st Tue<br />
George Little 03 9803 7907<br />
MAROONDAH 3rd Wed<br />
Paul McCulloch 03 9802 0725<br />
PENINSULA 2nd Fri<br />
Peter Christie 03 5985 7515<br />
BOROONDARA 4 th Wed<br />
Tibor Puhl 03 9890 0474<br />
JESUS<br />
YEAR OF GRACE<br />
PRAYER…<br />
Invite Jesus to walk with you this day<br />
as you pray.<br />
Jesus as I contemplate<br />
your face: let me experience<br />
your great love for me.<br />
Reveal your saving<br />
grace and give me<br />
a grateful heart.<br />
Heal me <strong>of</strong> my weaknesses<br />
and sin and fill me with<br />
compassion for others.<br />
Gift me with the wisdom <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Spirit and encourage me to be a<br />
Faithful witness to the Gospel.<br />
I ask this through Christ our Lord.<br />
Amen.<br />
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EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
OBITUARIES…<br />
BROTHER GREG SMYTH RIP<br />
Late <strong>of</strong> City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle<br />
Peacefully passed to eternal life on 16 th June <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Please remember Colleen and Family in your prayers<br />
May he rest in peace Amen.<br />
Brother Gregory Patrick Smyth passed to his Maker at 1:00am on Sunday 16 th June at Sutherland Hospital.<br />
Greg has had an incredibly tough two years in and out <strong>of</strong> Saint Vincent’s Hospital.<br />
He was a foundation brother when the City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle was inaugurated on 22 nd July 1971, was<br />
treasurer for two years, Vice President in 1989 and President in 1990. On his buying trips to China he visited<br />
the Hong Kong Circle and was always warmly welcomed.<br />
Greg was a class mate <strong>of</strong> Brother Joe McGuinness and two past brothers Tony Tynan and Bob McLaughlin<br />
(all City <strong>of</strong> Sydney) and this quartet have remained close mates for over 50 years. He was a very proud exstudent<br />
<strong>of</strong> Marist Brothers High School at Kogarah from where many <strong>of</strong> our City <strong>of</strong> Sydney brothers received<br />
their education and Catholic faith.<br />
Bob McLaughlin spoke in his eulogy <strong>of</strong> their days at school in the army cadets when they were placed in<br />
charge <strong>of</strong> the quartermaster’s store. A delivery <strong>of</strong> Enfield 303 rifles was made complete with bolts. A few<br />
rounds <strong>of</strong> ammunition were found, loaded and accidentally discharged with the ricochet hitting one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
boys, fortunately not a serious injury! Greg then had a reputation at the school <strong>of</strong> “don’t argue” with him, he<br />
shoots you! He was also in the football team and tennis squad.<br />
Bob also spoke <strong>of</strong> Greg’s ability to make friends easily and keep contact with them; many <strong>of</strong> these 60 year<br />
friends are in the congregation today. His telephone was in constant use ringing his many friends and just<br />
“keeping in touch”<br />
Greg’s prized possession was a collection <strong>of</strong> Penfold’s Grange Hermitage. He had Bob McLaughlin to<br />
dinner one evening, opened and savoured one bottle <strong>of</strong> “Grange”, uncorked a second which was not<br />
finished and put aside. Next evening Greg looked for the half bottle <strong>of</strong> his “sacred red” only to find Colleen<br />
had used it to make some jelly!!!!. This must go down in history as the first and the last “Grange Jelly”.<br />
The C.Y.O. (Catholic Youth Organisation) was in full swing in the 1950-60’s. Greg and his mates were very<br />
regular attendees at the meetings and social events because all the good looking Catholic girls were there!<br />
At one <strong>of</strong> these functions he was captivated with a tall, beautiful brunette. He married his devoted wife<br />
Colleen Veness at Saint Finbar’s Sans Souci in 1962. They were blessed with one son, Greg Junior, their<br />
daughter-in-law Susan and two grandchildren Georgia & Victoria. With their family they celebrated their<br />
Golden Wedding in <strong>20</strong>12.<br />
/Continued on next page…<br />
JUNE Page 55 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
BROTHER GREG SMYTH RIP<br />
Late <strong>of</strong> City <strong>of</strong> Sydney Circle<br />
Peacefully passed to eternal life on 16 th June <strong>20</strong>13<br />
Please remember Colleen and Family in your prayers<br />
May he rest in peace Amen.<br />
Greg studied accountancy and commenced his first employment with the <strong>Australia</strong>n Tax Office. He saw that<br />
great opportunity existed outside <strong>of</strong> the Public Service so he resigned and with Colleen ran a successful<br />
fishing and sporting goods importing business.<br />
He was a committed Rotarian, attending regularly and assisting in all their community activities and fund<br />
raising.<br />
Greg had a wonderful devotion to Our Lady and tirelessly promoted the reciting <strong>of</strong> her special prayer “The<br />
Rosary”. He and Colleen organised the unique one decade rosary beads to be distributed to <strong>Catenians</strong>, First<br />
communicants in St. Joseph’s Parish, Lweza, Uganda, Africa and school children and adults in <strong>Australia</strong>.<br />
The intentions <strong>of</strong> these people were placed on the altar <strong>of</strong> the Pauline Fathers in Sutton Forest.<br />
You can be certain the World is a better place because <strong>of</strong> the thousands <strong>of</strong> prayers for the Blessed Virgin’s<br />
intercession that Greg, Colleen and their helpers have been able to organise.<br />
Brother Greg’s funeral was held with an overflowing church at “Our Lady <strong>of</strong> the Way” Sylvania on Thursday<br />
<strong>20</strong> th June <strong>20</strong>13 at 11am. The Requiem Mass was concelebrated by Father Simon Kitimbo from Uganda and<br />
Msgr. Brian Rayner.<br />
/Brother Peter O’Reilly<br />
Greg RIP pictured with visiting Grand President Tony Godden October <strong>20</strong>11<br />
JUNE Page 56 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Please pray for the soul <strong>of</strong><br />
Sheelagh Scahill<br />
wife <strong>of</strong> Brother Greg Scahill<br />
passed away on Thursday <strong>20</strong> June <strong>20</strong>13.<br />
Please pray for Greg and his family in their time <strong>of</strong> grief<br />
PLEASE PRAY FOR THE RECENTLY DECEASED…<br />
God <strong>of</strong> faithfulness, in Your wisdom You have called Your servants out <strong>of</strong> this<br />
world; release them from the bonds <strong>of</strong> sin, and welcome them into Your<br />
Presence, so the they may enjoy eternal light and peace and be raised up in glory<br />
with all Your saints. AMEN.<br />
ANNIVERSARIES:<br />
Your prayers are requested for the repose <strong>of</strong> the souls <strong>of</strong> our deceased<br />
Catenian Brothers and <strong>of</strong> all our relatives and friends, especially those<br />
whose anniversaries occur at this time.<br />
God our Father,<br />
Your power brings us to birth,<br />
Your providence guides our lives,<br />
and by Your command we return to dust.<br />
Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,<br />
their lives change but do not end.<br />
We pray in hope for our families,<br />
relatives and friends,<br />
and for all the dead known to You alone.<br />
In company with Christ,<br />
Who died and now lives,<br />
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,<br />
where all our tears are wiped away.<br />
Unite us together again in one family,<br />
to sing Your praise forever and ever.<br />
Amen.<br />
JUNE Page 57 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
Late news in from Mosman Circle…<br />
From left: Past President Mosman Circle; Brother Peter Finn<br />
<strong>Province</strong> 21 Membership Officer; Brother Paul Despoges<br />
Mosman Circle President; Brother Robert Van Aalst<br />
& Mosman Circle Membership Officer; Brother Graham Short<br />
Mosman Circle triumphed this year and have won the Friar Tuck Cup for <strong>20</strong>13. The Circle<br />
recently conducted a membership drive, with blessing <strong>of</strong> the local Parish Priest, at all<br />
weekend masses at the three Churches <strong>of</strong> Our Lady <strong>of</strong> the Way Parish North Sydney and<br />
recorded a massive 60 registrations <strong>of</strong> interest.<br />
/Brother Graham Short<br />
JUNE Page 58 <strong>20</strong>13
EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21<br />
PRAYER<br />
FOR PEACE<br />
IN THE<br />
MIDDLE EAST…<br />
God <strong>of</strong> Mercy & Compassion, <strong>of</strong> Grace and reconciliation,<br />
Pour your spirit on all your children<br />
in the Middle East.<br />
Jews, Muslims and Christians,<br />
Let hatred be turned into Love, fear to Trust,<br />
Despair to hope,<br />
Oppression to Freedom and occupation to Liberation,<br />
May Peace & Justice be shared by all.<br />
Lord Hear Us!<br />
JUNE Page 59 <strong>20</strong>13
The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith<br />
EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21<br />
FINALLY, LET’S HAVE A LAUGH. . . . . .<br />
A farmer named Muldoon lived alone in the countryside with a wee dog that he loved and doted on.<br />
After many long years <strong>of</strong> faithful companionship, the dog finally died, so Muldoon went to the parish<br />
priest:<br />
"Father, my dear old dog is dead. Could you be saying a Mass for him?"<br />
Father Patrick replied, "I am so very sorry to hear about your dog's death. But, unfortunately, I can't say<br />
Mass for the poor creature..."<br />
Muldoon said, "I understand, Father, I do. I guess I'll go to this new denomination down the road; no<br />
tellin' what they believe... Do you think $500 is enough to donate for the service?"<br />
Father Patrick: "Why didn't you tell me your wee dog was Catholic?!"<br />
Late one night, a burglar broke into a house he thought was empty. He tiptoed through the living room<br />
but suddenly he froze in his tracks when he heard a loud voice say: "Jesus is watching you!"<br />
Silence returned to the house, so the burglar crept forward again. "Jesus is watching you," the voice<br />
boomed again. The burglar stopped dead again. He was frightened. Frantically, he looked all around. In<br />
a dark corner, he spotted a bird cage and in the cage was a parrot. He asked the parrot:<br />
"Was that you who said Jesus is watching me?" "Yes," said the parrot. The burglar breathed a sigh <strong>of</strong><br />
relief and asked the parrot: "What's your name?" "Clarence," said the bird.<br />
"That's a dumb name for a parrot," sneered the burglar. "What idiot named you Clarence?" The parrot<br />
said, "The same idiot who named the Doberman Jesus."<br />
Lost on a rainy Friday night, a priest stumbles into a monastery and requests shelter there. Fortunately,<br />
he's just in time for dinner and was treated to the best fish and chips he's ever had.<br />
After dinner, he goes into the kitchen to thank the chefs. He is met by two brothers, "Hello, I'm Brother<br />
Michael, and this is Brother Francis."<br />
"I'm very pleased to meet you. I just wanted to thank you for a wonderful dinner. The fish and chips<br />
were the best I've ever tasted. Out <strong>of</strong> curiosity, who cooked what?"<br />
Brother Charles replied, "Well, I'm the fish friar."<br />
Father turns to the other brother and says, "Then you must be...."<br />
"Yes, I'm afraid I'm the chip monk..."<br />
Not so very long ago, an old German man was feeling guilty about something he had done, so he<br />
decided to go to Confession.<br />
He said, "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. I feel terrible because during World War II I hid a refugee<br />
in my attic."<br />
The priest said, "But that's not a sin! I wouldn't feel bad about that if I were you!"<br />
"But I made him agree to pay me 50 Marks for every week he stayed."<br />
The priest said, "Well, I admit that certainly wasn't the most noble thing to do, charging the man to save<br />
his life -- but you did save his life, after all, and that is a good thing. Don't worry about it too much; God<br />
forgives."<br />
The man said, "Oh thank you, Father, that eases my mind. I have only one more question to ask you --<br />
Do I have to tell him the war is over?"<br />
After the Baptism <strong>of</strong> his baby brother in church, little Johnny sobbed all the way home in the back seat<br />
<strong>of</strong> the car. His father asked him three times what was wrong. Finally, the boy replied, "That priest said<br />
he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, but I want to stay with you guys."<br />
Catholic boy and a Jewish boy were talking and the Catholic boy said, "My priest knows more than your<br />
rabbi." The Jewish boy said, "Of course he does, you tell him everything."<br />
JUNE Page 60 <strong>20</strong>13