An Easter People - Intercom Magazine
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April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 18
Dr Orla Walsh
is Deputy Principal of
An E as ter Peo pl e Mount Sackville Secondary
School,
Sisters of Cluny,
Chapelizod, Dublin
W
set out upon the pathways
Photo: Editor
hen my mother brought home
wallpaper and paint, it meant of the world, yet a decisive
that we were preparing for moment in her taking shape
Easter. We didn’t ever prepare for was certainly the institution
Christmas the way we prepared for of the Eucharist in the
Easter. There was always a room to be Upper room. Her
decorated and curtains to be taken foundation and wellspring
down, hand-washed and pressed. We is the whole Triduum … but
were regularly reminded of her youth, this is as it were gathered
when the walls of her homeplace were up, foreshadowed and
‘whitewashed and the hedges clipped.’ “concentrated” forever in
One might suggest that Mammy was the gi of the Eucharist.’
doing the spring cleaning; however, she The last supper shared in
very openly attributed any and all of her the upper room is the
work to the risen Jesus. As children, ‘source and summit’ of the
Easter was a big event in our lives. Church. The individual
In my own family, there is a similar liturgies of Holy Thursday,
sense of preparation. Easter and the Good Friday, and the Easter
hope it embodies carries us forward as Vigil mark not isolated
events, but a single blessed
well as making sense of our past. Once,
event. The Mass of the
on the way to Holy Thursday Mass, our
Lord’s Supper on Holy
daughter was chatting to me about a
Thursday does not end with
primary school project entitled ‘Saint
a final blessing; rather, that
John Paul II’s visit to Ireland.’ I told her
blessing is given at the
about how amazing it was to be in the
conclusion of the Easter
Pope’s presence, the emotion I had
Vigil.
experienced when the popemobile drove
The Easter Triduum is
past us in the Phoenix park, and how the
what I can only describe as
Pope’s visit had been such a huge an annual retreat. Our own
national event. Later, during the Mass, family have prayed through
she leaned over to me and enquired: ‘Did primary school playground
Jesus ever visit Ireland?’ ‘Yes’, I replied, squabbles, adolescent
‘He visits all the time, and He is about to angst and anger, young
arrive on the altar right now; when you adulthood decisions and all
hear the bells ringing, you will know He that goes on in between. Most of all, we son, my parents, our community, and for
is here.’ I must admit tears sprung to my have prayed with and for each other. Each the love of God offered through faith.
eyes when I saw her wide-eyed with part of the Easter Triduum offers the Such powerful liturgy! Such a joy to look
wonder as the bells rang out louder and opportunity to be blessed and broken in forward to!
longer for the Holy Thursday Gloria. equal amounts. In 1976, Dr SM Lockridge, a Baptist
Easter is a blessed and holy time for With Holy Thursday comes the pastor, was asked to describe Jesus. He
any family. The brighter evenings and initiation of the sacrament of the replied that Jesus was his ‘King’. He was
rising temperature herald hope. Lambs Eucharist, a willing of the soul to ‘stay then asked to describe his ‘King’. A very
and snowdrops announce renewal. For awake’ and prepare for what has to come. famous explanation unfolded that
people of faith there is so much more. Good Friday breaks the human heart included the following:
Jesus broke through the barriers of sin open with sadness and loss, until the
and death. Jesus is present to everyone, ‘… Well, the Pharisees couldn’t stand
Easter Vigil showers hope with the joy of
not just the people who follow Him and Him,
the Risen Lord.
celebrate Him. Easter is a time of but they found out they couldn’t stop
A cherished memory is of Oisín ringing
rejoicing and jubilation at the Him.
the bells for the entire and beautifully
Pilate couldn’t find any fault in Him...
unconditional love poured out for all. sung Gloria during an Easter Vigil in Trim.
Herod couldn’t kill Him.
The Easter Triduum is an even more This precious ritual and symbolic action
Death couldn’t handle Him
intensive time of preparation, and brings filled my heart with a searing love of the
and the grave couldn’t hold Him.
Lent to its climax. Pope John Paul II Lord, along with endless gratitude for the
That’s my King …’
explained: ‘By the gi of the Holy Spirit faith that was gied to me. In those
at Pentecost, the Church was born and moments, I experienced gratitude for our Happy Easter!
18 Intercom • April 2020
April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 19
Book Review The Editor
AWESOME GLORY ‘profound
adoration before
Resurrection in Scripture, the epiphany of
Liturgy and Theology God that is about
Jeremy Driscoll OSB to take place in
this liturgy… In
Collegeville, Minnesota: Liturgical Press, 2019 this liturgy God
144 pp reveals what and
who God is. In the
‘T
he most important event of human history, indeed, the
most important event that has ever happened presence of this
anywhere in the created universe, is the death of Jesus unfathomable
Christ on the cross and his being raised from the dead by the form of revelation,
one whom he called God and Father.’ This is the opening we begin by lying
on our faces in
sentence of Abbot Jeremy Driscoll’s short book, a book that
silence before the
lives up to its title by showing how the ‘Awesome Glory’ spills
all-holy God.’ (p.
out into the liturgical, homiletic, spiritual and personal aspects
54).
of the Easter Triduum, and on into the Easter Season.
‘Those prayers
This book is an exercise in what the author calls ‘liturgical
were awful long,
exegesis’ – reading the biblical texts in the light of how they are
Father.’ No, not a
presented in the liturgy. This turns out to be a rich and
quotation from
rewarding approach, and all I can attempt to do here is convey a
the book, but
hint of what it has to offer.
from numerous
At the heart of this little book are three chapters, dealing
parishioners over the years, who found the General
with the ceremonies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the
Intercessions long to the point of tedium. Our author
Easter Vigil (there is more – Abbot Jeremy surveys the whole
comments masterfully on ‘the dimension of prayer that lasts
Easter Season, through to the Ascension and Pentecost). These too long. The death of Jesus also lasted too long. It was
chapters really are a string of pearls; let’s focus on one or two stretched out over six physically agonizing hours… Prayer is
pearls from each of the three great ceremonies. suffering. Prayer is dying for others.’ (p. 69).
On Holy Thursday night, the instructions for the Passover Rubrics are for liturgical obsessives – you’d never dream of
meal, given in the first reading, state: ‘You shall eat it hastily.’ preaching from them, right? Wrong. With reference to the
Applying this to our celebration, the author notes: ‘Our sharing Easter Vigil, Driscoll shows how the rubrics can ‘embody very
in the banquet of Jesus’ Body and Blood is not some cheerful condensed pieces of theology’ (p. 77) – and, one might add, of
sitting down to a party of like-minded friends who have no spirituality. For the paschal fire, the Missal’s rubric states: ‘A
worries or troubles. No, we receive the Lamb’s flesh and are blazing fire is prepared in a suitable place outside the church.’
protected by his blood while an enemy pursues us and is close That fire, Abbot Driscoll notes, ‘is to stand out – beautiful,
on our heels… Christians live in the world as those in flight.’ (p. dangerous, and impressive – against darkest night.’ Why?
39). Because Jesus, the risen Lord, ‘is beautiful, dangerous, and
I have never found it easy to recruit people for the foot- impressive.’ (p. 79). What a delightful invitation to ponder the
washing. Full confession: at one point I gave up trying, aer significance of the rubrics during this time!
issuing too many assurances that I wouldn’t be extracting toe- The author’s exposition of biblical passages read during the
nails. Our author’s wise and witty comments cast light on that Triduum is superb. Where the readings vary according to the
pastoral dilemma: ‘The priest is down on the floor, and the three-year cycle, he comments on each. In this year’s Easter
community feels some shock in seeing him in this position. Vigil Gospel (from Matthew), we read that the women ‘came
Those having their feet washed perhaps feel some quickly away from the tomb and ran to tell the disciples.’ The
embarrassment, some hesitation. Perhaps some who are comment reads: ‘This is how we too will meet Jesus the
watching from the congregation must struggle to check Crucified as the Risen One: by running away from the tomb of
thoughts in themselves that they are not pleased to see the feet sin and death, by believing the angel’s announcement, and in
washed of someone known by them to be a not entirely upright mission to carry this news to others… [Jesus] will come to us as
person.’ (p. 46). The embarrassment has a long pedigree, we hurry away from the tomb and run to share the news with
extending, as it does, back to the first Pope! others.’ (p. 97).
I found the comments on the prostration or kneeling with To conclude on that note, I would urge readers to run to this
which the Good Friday liturgy opens to be most arresting. The book. It stands only to bless and enrich our celebration of the
author makes it clear that those postures are not just about Easter ceremonies and our personal appropriation of what we
respect; they are the response to an epiphany. This, incidentally, celebrate.
is why prostration is more powerful than kneeling: it is an act of
Intercom • April 2020 19April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 20
National Association
Positive Developments in RE of Post-Primary
in the Junior Cycle Diocesan Advisors
T
he recent introduction of the new enthusiasm in acknowledging our
Specification for Religious Christian celebrations? Marking Advent,
Education into the new Junior making Lent meaningful, preparing for
Cycle Framework provides an exciting the celebration of Easter? Even with the
opportunity to look with fresh eyes at celebration of Christmas, the school
the place of RE in our post-primary ‘concert’ appears to be taking the place
schools. of a Carol Service or Nativity play; Christ,
The NCCA rationale for Religious it seems, is gradually being removed
Education states that RE ‘has a critical from Christmas.
role to play in the curriculum.’ It argues At this time, when the sacred is so
that RE ‘encourages respect and utterly challenged by the secular, it is
understanding of different beliefs, more important than ever that schools
perspectives and ways of living, mark the Liturgical Year. Catholic schools
including both the religious and non- are expected to do so, but the RE
religious response to human experience.’ specification actually gives other schools
(JCRE Specification, p. 6). encouragement to explore and celebrate
There are three ways of engaging with the Christian feasts which belong to the
the new JCRE; it may be taken as an exam faith background of so many of their
subject; students may follow the students.
programme, completing the two CBAs in With the new teaching
second and third year, but without methodologies encouraging a spiral
taking an examination, or the rather than linear approach to learning,
specification may be followed without there will no longer be a sense amongst
completing the CBAs. In each of these recently confirmed students, beginning
cases, students’ work can be recognised their post-primary education, that they
under Other Areas of Learning on their conscious move away from being already ‘know it all’ when it comes to
Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement associated with Catholic practice by state Christianity! They will be accustomed to
(JCPA). (See: Junior Cycle Religious schools, the introduction of the JCRE an approach which builds on knowledge
Education in the Catholic School. Council gives an opportunity to use the from year to year – and will be open to
for Catechetics of the Irish Episcopal curriculum to encourage deeper learning ongoing learning about their own faith,
Conference) about one’s own faith. to marking the stages of the Liturgical
It has oen been argued that where The contribution of Christianity to Year, as well as learning about the faiths
the state examination is taken, faith Ireland’s culture and heritage is an of others, and of non-religious
formation suffers. However, it is also the integral part of the new RE specification worldviews.
case that in many schools, where RE is for Junior Cycle. We should use that Religious Education provides ‘a space
not an exam subject, the timetable invitation to teach the central beliefs of like no other’; it supports students to ask
allocation may have been reduced. Christianity; to demonstrate that faith significant questions, prepares them to
Within the Junior Cycle Framework, RE practice is still alive and well in Ireland. make a contribution to their community,
retains its place as a ‘subject’ separate Students are expected to explore how the engages them in reflection and action,
from ‘Wellbeing’. If schools are to take religious teachings of a major world and develops a religious literacy which
the NCCA rationale seriously, the religion address an issue of concern for prepares them for life in a pluralist
essential nature of RE provision in any the world today. What a wonderful way society.
school is clear. How is it then that the to introduce Catholic Social Teaching to The format of the NCCA’s new JC RE
subject, which makes such a vital the classroom; to examine Laudato Si’ and specification offers a challenge which, if
contribution to the holistic education the call of Pope Francis to care for our undertaken, will enable our young
young people, is so oen seen to be the earth, and so forth. people to deepen their own faith; they
one subject area for which time Ireland is at a crossroads. Many will be encouraged to express their
allocation can be eroded? In many schools mark the religious celebrations of beliefs, explore questions and live their
schools, a period of RE is oen ‘shared’ other faiths in their school calendar, values. This is an opportunity not to be
with another subject, and, at senior facilitating and supporting Muslim missed.
cycle, the SPHE/RSE programme is students as they fast during Ramadan;
regularly delivered during those periods marking, for example, the Hindu festivals
timetabled for Religious Education. of Diwali and Holi, which celebrate the Margaret Farrell
In the current situation, where the victory of good over evil, acknowledging is Post-Primary
academic demands of the school year with their Buddhist students the Diocesan Advisor for
impinge on the faith practice of Catholic celebration of the Chinese New Year, Religious Education in the
schools, and the need to be seen to be preparing for the Jewish commemoration Diocese of Carlow
‘multi-denominational’ entails a of Hanukkah. However, is there the same
20 Intercom • April 2020April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 21
I N T ER C OM C R O SSWO R D
NO 2 2 3 BY GINGER
S P O N S O R E D B Y V E R I TA S
ACROSS
1 Terribly teased but calm (6)
4 Broadcasts journey from runway (8)
10 Craft that could bear forty when renovated (9)
11 Not inclined? (5)
12 We carry identification and it is broad (4)
13 He gives vital liquid assets to be put in circulation (5,5)
15 Go back to see about a poem (7)
16 Bronzed deputy receives girl (6)
19 Leapt around about a pole to see celestial body (6)
21 No longer living on main part of Jordan (4,3)
23 Friend in Dublin and another capital, 11 Ac for instance
(10)
25 Cleric gets confused in Aden (4)
27 Entertain a source of inspiration (5)
28 Name ten to undergo reform in expiation (9)
29 Uses pens creatively to express tension (8)
30 Terribly sad gastric upset (6)
DOWN
1 Computer program for waste recycling (8)
2 Challenge Satan with one who is recklessly brave (9)
3 Trifles with playthings (4)
5 I trot in and disrupt the opening hymn (7)
6 Aliens fled in disarray from Lenten practice (4-6)
7 Bird of prayer in Roscommon! (5)
8 Pretty worthless attempt to follow friend (6)
9 Cello I play for sheepdog (6)
14 Arrangement of generic DNA reveals relative (10)
17 Segregate seasonal treat in parts (6,3)
18 Attractive wizardry includes trap (8)
20 Menaces designed to shatter (7)
21 Plum from mother and child (6) Name ....................................................................................................
22 Uses a mister on flower arrangements (6)
24 The hour for boys to take a turn (5) Address ................................................................................................
26 Diocese takes on right prophet (4) ............................................................................................................
MARCH SOLUTION ............................................................................................................
Across: 1 Marksman, 5 Averts, 9 Goldfish, 10 Woeful, 12
Intervene, 13 Ingot, 14 Shoe, 16 Stipend, 19 Avignon, 21 Ants,
24 Tally, 25 Lip reader, 27 Cannon, 28 Passport, 29 Errand, 30
Stiletto. Down: 1 Magpie, 2 Relate, 3 Safer, 4 Austere, 6 Violinist, VERITAS GIFT TOKENS
7 Refugees, 8 Solitude, 11 Bees, 15 Honeymoon, 17 Canticle, FOR THE FIRST THREE CORRECT ENTRIES DRAWN
18 Milliner, 20 Nile, 21 Asphalt, 22 Adroit, 23 Grotto, 26 Easel.
Crossword to be returned by 10 April to April 2020 Crossword,
Intercom Editor, Catholic Communications Office, Columba Centre, Maynooth, Co Kildare.
One entry per person. Photocopies acceptable with a satisfactory explanation – at the Editor’s discretion.
Airmail subscribers may send by fax to Int + 353-1-6016401. Please give full postal address.
Correct solution in May 2020 Intercom. Winners announced in June 2020 edition.
Lower Abbey Street and
Blanchardstown Centre, Dublin
Cork • Derry • Letterkenny • NewryApril 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 22 22 Intercom • April 2020
April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 23
Emma Sisk
Evangelisation/Catechesis is pursuing her MA in Theology
and Christian Ministry,
specialising in catechetics, at
Leading a Small Group Franciscan University of
Steubenville, Ohio
I
n January, I joined using body
Photos: istockphoto.com
the ChristLife language to show
team at a local that one is listening
parish here in (open body stance,
Steubenville. eye contact, leaning
ChristLife is a three- forward slightly).
step evangelisation Affirm and support
series: Discovering participants in what
Christ, Following they share and in
Christ and Sharing their efforts to live
Christ. It is like the faith. If the
Alpha in that it is group is straying
primarily aimed at from the topic or the
those who are ill- questions, ask a
disposed, luke- question that brings
warm or fallen away the discussion back
from the Christian to the topic. When
faith. It differs from appropriate, invite
Alpha in that it is an the quieter
explicitly Catholic members of the
ministry. Each series runs for seven weeks group to share. If one person is talking
and each week addresses a different oen, remind the group that each
teaching of the Church. In our parish, the member needs to have the opportunity to
weekly meetings take place on Thursdays share before the group hears from the
from 6pm to 9pm. We begin by sharing a same person again.
meal together. This is followed by a 20-
minute video presentation, aer which Adult learning
we discuss the content of the video in Adults generally want to have their say
small groups. Participants are assigned to disposed to the faith, you must always and will be willing to contribute to the
a small group on the first night of the preserve their dignity and avoid making discussion. In fact, expect to run into the
series and remain in the same small group them feel insecure or stupid if they are problem where one member of the group
throughout the seven weeks. This helps struggling with a particular topic. The is oversharing! People do not want to
to cultivate friendship and community primary purpose of small groups is to just sit and listen, or they won’t keep
among the participants, which is what give adults a chance to talk about how coming. Adults do not grow in faith by
keeps them coming back each week! We they feel about each teaching. sharing concepts. They grow by relating
are approaching the final weeks of the Small group leaders should present topics with experience. Small group
Discovering Christ series, and it has been themselves as interesting and normal! communities are powerful vehicles for
amazing to witness the transformation Share with them what your hobbies are, adult faith formation because they
and growth that has taken place in our what your week has been like; tell them provide opportunities for learning,
group. I’ve learned some lessons along about upcoming events, about your prayer, mutual support and the shared
the way when it comes to facilitating a family. Think of things that would be experience of Christian living. Remember
small group, that I hope you might find interesting to them and talk about those that your role is to facilitate, not to
helpful for events in your parish or things. Never give the impression that teach. Hold the group to the agenda for
diocese. you know more than they do. For the evening but avoid preaching to them.
example, you could say things like ‘it took If doctrinal questions arise, or if a person
Your Role me a long time to figure this out myself,’ disagrees with a teaching of the Church,
The key responsibility of the small group or ‘you are all way ahead of me on this thank them for their question.
facilitator is to lead the discussion and one.’ Avoid talking theologically. Encourage them to speak to their priest,
create a welcoming atmosphere so that or perhaps the issue will be addressed or
every member feels free to share what Attending to small group dynamics become clearer towards the end of the
they think and feel about the teaching, Adult learning needs to be participative, series.
and to ask honest questions about the related to participants’ lived experience A small group leader should be a
faith. The leader of the small group is a and needs; it involves learning from one Catholic growing in relationship with the
facilitator of learning, not a teacher. It another. It is important to listen to each Lord, one who is good with people and
can be tempting to feel the need to person with total attentiveness and to who understands the importance of
answer every question and to present encourage others to do the same. being sensitive and non-judgmental
Church teaching at every given Effective listening is more than just towards those who are at varying stages
opportunity. With those who are ill- hearing what a person says. It involves of the journey of faith.
Intercom • April 2020 23April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 24
Reflections on a Creation
Spirituality Retreat
A
couple of years back, I participated revealing its treasures and its hidden reminding us that we share a common
in a retreat in Ibricken Lodge, beauty at the same moment in history home with all creatures, creatures who, in
Spanish Point, Co Clare. Outside, when we are doing those same species so their simplicity and diversity, have much
the Atlantic’s waves tumbled onto the much harm. to teach us: ‘Ask the animals and they will
shore, majestic and alluring. Inside, like a Former Archbishop of Canterbury, teach you, or the birds of the sky and they
group of budding scientists, we peered Dr Rowan Williams, speaking at Our will tell you. Or speak to the earth and it
through microscopes at tiny, delicate Lady’s Shrine in Walsingham, explored will teach you, or let the fish of the sea
wild flowers, which we had picked earlier, the meaning of the Magnificat. declare to you. Which of all these does
on a walk to the sea. It was a retreat with Acknowledging that the term to magnify not know that the hand of the Lord has
a difference, directed by Dr John Feehan is not one in common use, outside of the done this, in whose hand is the life of
and Fr Hugh O’Donnell SMA. We explored celebration of Evening Prayer, Dr Williams every creature and the breath of all the
the insights of the recent Papal wondered what the term could mean. To human race?’ (Job 12:7-10)
Encyclical, Laudato Si’, as we connected magnify, in a liturgical context, is to We are the beneficiaries of centuries
in a ‘hands on’ way with the environment. praise, and when we praise someone we of laborious, dedicated scientific
usually step back to allow them space, investigation; distant galaxies are
Magnify the Lord… and creation! space to shine, to be acknowledged and brought into view and microscopic life is
I was the youngest participant, but age is noticed. This is the only way we can exposed to us in startling detail. In a few
no obstacle to wonder and there was speak of magnifying the Lord, for we short days, Dr John Feehan had made
wonder a-plenty as we looked through cannot make God any greater than God eager botanists and amateur geologists
the microscopes to see the humble Daisy, is. Mary consciously steps back to make out of us all. His encyclopaedic
the Tued Vetch, the Great Hairy Willow the Lord greater in her soul. In this, she is knowledge was helping us to name and
Herb and the Scarlet Pimpernel in not diminished, but filled with joy and appreciate the rich flora and fauna which
magnified splendour. Indeed, I was wonder. This interpretation of the was all around us, while furnished with
inspired to see how many of the Magnificat came to me as I peered new insights into geology, astronomy
participants, who had retired from through the microscope in Spanish Point. and botany, we were compelled to
decades of ministry and apostolic work, Seeing the tiniest, humblest little flowers conceive of God as passionately
were quickly returned to giddy youthful magnified into colours and textures, interested in life, a God who delights in a
enthusiasm as they looked at nature patterns and symmetries should make us seemingly endless array of species, from
through the magnifying lens. Natura in step back in wonder, making space for the microscopic to the gigantic, a God
minima, maxime miranda (Nature is most these magnificent creatures which we who delights in diversity, adaptations and
to be marvelled at in its smallest walk on and walk by each day. Mary’s soul peculiarities. A brief reflection on the
examples). This was the insight of the magnified the Lord; the perfect human variety and diversity of nature through
scientists of the early modern age. response to grace. My eyes were the lens of 21st century science may
Having achieved the means to examine magnifying the Rag Wort and the Sea quickly convince you that your idea of
the tiniest creatures, flora and fauna, with Chamomile with the aid of a microscope, God is too small!
magnifying glasses and microscopes, and my reaction was one of wonder and The advance of the natural sciences
they marvelled at the variety, the humility. has given science and scientists an
diversity and the sheer beauty of the almost cultic character in modern
smallest and most unseen creatures. The Science helping us to wonder society. The phrase ‘science has shown’ is
centuries which have followed have For believers, that sense of wonder is enough to end any argument today. But
added to our knowledge, tens of accompanied with praise and what we call ‘science’ first stirred in the
thousands of new species have been thanksgiving to the Creator. Our Judeo- same environment of wonder and
discovered, many tens of thousands are Christian tradition speaks frequently intrigue which gave rise to philosophy
still unknown. Sadly, the creation is about the unity within God’s creation, and theology. Science began with
24 Intercom • April 2020April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 25
Photos: Editor
observations and puzzles advantage, I enter into a
about the world and how it new relationship with
functions. It began with created things. I learn to
inquisitive people like live simply, overcoming
Eratosthenes of the temptation to possess
Alexandria, the man who things, as though they
measured the were actually mine and not
circumference of the world the gi of God. Most
with a stick! Today, the importantly, perhaps, I
sciences claim that nature learn to wonder, notice
is the result not of a single and enjoy. Science can
system, but of many affirm that, even more
systems, e.g. the biosphere than St Francis realised, we
and ecosystems. Nature are ‘brother and sister’ to
also bears the effects of other creatures, sharing
history, culture, languages, genetic relationships,
human relations, etc. To connected in multiple
resolve current issues ways to creatures and
concerning nature, we systems which have
need to ask questions that evolved in a remarkable
not only concern the manner over millions of
environment in isolation; years. Earth is our common
we cannot afford a home and creation is a
piecemeal approach (cf. family. It is important to
Laudato Si’ 160). It is a listen to the voices in
characteristic of the science and in faith
sciences today that on the traditions which help us to
one hand they are clearly magnify, appreciate and
warning us of the delicate care for our cosmic family.
balance in nature, the risks In the Hassidic Jewish
to species and the requirements of Brother Sun, he may have been excused tradition, it was taught that when we
sustainability, while on the other hand, as an incurable romantic. Certainly, the meet God in the next life God will ask us
science, funded by multinationals, is 18th and 19th centuries tended to just one question: ‘Did you enjoy my
pushing forward the short term goals of characterise St Francis as just that – the creation?’
big business and economies. The religious equivalent of the romantic
sciences have the capacity to lead us into nature poet. But his intuition was far from
wonder and awe. The images from the sentiment or romance; it was deeply
Hubble telescope are beyond our theological. By magnifying the Lord of
capacity to describe; they invite wonder creation, and in turn magnifying his Liam O’Kelly OFM
and silent reflection, indeed prayer. brother and sister creatures, St Francis Franciscan Friary,
was capable of stepping back and Friary Lane,
Our Place in the Universe creating space for creation to be. In Athlone, Co Westmeath
When, back in 13th century Umbria, St allowing creation to be, without desiring
Francis of Assisi wrote the Canticle of to control and manipulate it to my
Intercom • April 2020 25April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:46 Page 26
m ile ston es • m i le st on e s • mi le s t o n e s
St Valentine’s Day – the Irish Connection
Photo: John McElroy
‘Valentine was a priest who lived in the time of the great
persecutor Claudius II. Claudius issued an edict prohibiting the
marriage of young people, on the basis that unmarried soldiers
fought better than married ones, who might fear for their wives
or families if they died in battle…
Valentine secretly married young couples. He was eventually
caught, imprisoned and tortured for performing these
clandestine marriages. The story is told that he cured the
daughter of one of the judges assigned to his case. The young girl
was blind. The judge, Asterius, became a believer as a result… the
last message Saint Valentine wrote before facing his executioner
was a note to this young girl, signed off, ‘from your Valentine.’
And so, today’s commercial business has been born out of that
note and out of this man we know as Saint Valentine.
[T]he relic arrived here in Dublin in 1836, because of a Carmelite
priest, Father John Spratt… On a visit to Rome, preaching at the
famous Jesuit Church, the Gesù, Pope Gregory XVI gied him with
the remains of Saint Valentine and a small vessel tinged with his
blood. Since then, couples have been coming here, to Our Lady of
Mount Carmel’s Church, to pray at his shrine.’
Bishop Denis Nulty, speaking at Whitefriar St Church on St Valentine’s Day Bishop Denis Nulty blessing an engaged couple, Michelle Connolly and
Jonathan Hanley, in Whitefriar Street Church on Valentine’s Day
Welcoming Querida Amazonia
Photo: the Editor
Natural, Human and
Photo: the Editor
Social Ecology
In the Amazon region, one better understands the words of
Benedict XVI when he said that, ‘alongside the ecology of
nature, there exists what can be called a “human” ecology ‘Despite the challenges we have here in Ireland with
which in turn demands a “social” ecology. All this means finding enough priests and religious to serve our parishes,
that humanity… must be increasingly conscious of the links we should not forget that Ireland has always been a
between natural ecology, or respect for nature, and human country which has responded to the Church’s call to
ecology.’ This insistence that ‘everything is connected’ is mission. I recently visited mission and development
particularly true of a territory like the Amazon region. If the projects in Ecuador, Peru and Nicaragua, and was
care of people and the care of humbled to see the immense contribution that Irish
ecosystems are inseparable, this missionaries, religious and Trócaire workers are making
becomes especially important there. It would be wonderful if some Irish priests,
in places where ‘the forest is religious and lay missionaries today were to consider
not a resource to be exploited; offering even a five-year period of ministry to the
it is a being, or various beings, Amazon. In calling us to hear the cry of the earth, and the
with which we have to relate.’ cry of the Amazon, Pope Francis opens our ears especially
Querida Amazonia 41,42 to the cry of the poor and the exploited in our world, and
in particular their cry for justice and hope that is found in
the Good News of Jesus Christ.’
Querida Amazonia is available from Archbishop Eamonn Martin, welcoming the publication of Pope
all Veritas stores and on veritas.ie Francis’ Querida Amazonia (Beloved Amazonia), 12 February 2019
26 Intercom • April 2020April 2020 part 1-final.qxp_Layout 1 10/03/2020 07:39 Page 27
mile ston es • m i le st on e s • mi le s t o n e s
Pope Francis appoints Father Paul Dempsey as the new
Bishop of Achonry
Photo: Brenda Drumm
On 27 January, Pope Francis appointed Father Paul Dempsey, PP
of Newbridge in the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin, as Bishop of
the Diocese of Achonry. Father Dempsey was born in Carlow
Town on 20 April 1971. He is the youngest in his family, having
one brother and two sisters. He was ordained to the
priesthood for the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin in the
Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow, by Bishop Laurence
Ryan, on 6 July 1997.
Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and
President of the Irish Bishops’ Conference, said, ‘I wish to
congratulate Bishop-elect Dempsey, whom Pope Francis has
appointed as the new Bishop of Achonry. His service to the
Church, particularly in the areas of youth ministry,
communications and on matters concerning faith and culture,
is well known and will provide a great foundation for his Fr Paul Dempsey (left), with Fr Dermot Meehan, Administrator of Achonry Diocese
pastoral leadership as a diocesan bishop.’
The Episcopal Ordination of the new Bishop of Achonry will take place on Sunday 19 April 2020.
The devastation wrought John Paul II Awards
Photo: John McElroy
by our drugs culture
Photo: istockphoto.com
[T]here has to be great
anger and even
sadness, great fear
and pain perhaps, at
the thought that we
live in a society where
certain people took
upon themselves to
‘play God’ […] What appalling wickedness and evil. God The recipients of the St John Paul II awards which were
alone is the Lord of Life – from its beginning to its end. held in St Paul’s Church Arran Quay, Dublin in February.
No-one can, under any circumstances, claim for himself, The awards are dedicated to the memory of St John Paul II,
the right to directly destroy another human being! who showed a great love and confidence in young people.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all whose hearts Christian leadership and service in the community are at
are broken. This great gi of life we have received from the heart of what the awards are about.
God our creator is a treasure. It is precious but it is fragile.
[…] Drugs have become extremely easy for young people
to obtain. Recently someone commented that ‘A lot of
people are now budgeting for their debs – as well as their
clothes and drink – they’re also budgeting now for
cocaine, and other drugs.’ It isn’t just communities with
deprived socio-economic backgrounds that are worse for
Crossword winners
illegal drug-taking, it has become ‘socially acceptable’ The winners of the February 2020 Crossword competition:
across the country among people from all backgrounds
[…] People who are taking drugs on a social basis have to 1. Mary Kenny, Shantalla, Galway,
realise that what they are doing is fuelling this situation 2. Sr Josephine Burke, Cluain Árd, Cobh, Co Cork
of violence. The problem arises from the ‘normalisation’
3. Maria Feeney, Carrington, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9
of a drugs culture here in Ireland.
Fr Phil Gaffney, at the funeral of Keane Mulready Woods.
Drogheda, 13 February 2020
Intercom • April 2020 27April 2020 part 2-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:41 Page 28
The Mission and Work of
Every Life Counts
Photo: istockphoto.com
Who We Are Because we have parents create a birth
Every Life Counts provides parents who walked this journey plan, offering
have received a life-limiting diagnosis for ourselves, we know suggestions from
their unborn baby with the vital support how frightening and experience that will
they need to let love shine through. We alone parents can feel. help Mum and Dad
were created in 2014, out of a need to We also learned what express their wishes
help families who find themselves in a parents most need. for care for both
situation where their baby may not live Our main focus is to mother and baby. We
for long aer birth. We offer families a provide support - also provide
network where they can feel supported, especially in the form anticipatory grief
loved and informed, as they say hello and of a peer-to-peer support network where support, since loss and grief are an
goodbye to their beautiful baby. families can be talk and meet with other inescapable part of this journey.
parents who have been given the same We send out care packages to Mum
At the darkest point in my life, Every Life diagnosis for their baby. Mums and Dads before the birth of her baby. Each care
Counts enabled me to see the light by say this is invaluable and critically package is unique to Mum, and the
helping me come to terms with the life- important in enabling parents to find the memory boxes, tiny booties and more,
limiting diagnosis of my daughter Freya, strength to make the most of their time are packed with love for both Mum and
who had anencephaly. Because of that I with baby, before and aer birth. baby. Our medically accurate and
was able to love and care for her just the Sometimes families need to talk and beautifully presented booklets help to
way I should have. Freya and I will be share, sometimes they need help getting inform and reassure parents who were all
forever grateful for the support we have counselling, sometimes Mum is on her too oen simply told to ‘go home and
received from Every Life Counts, and own and needs someone to go to google’ for information aer their baby
more importantly for the forever-friends hospital to be a support for was diagnosed.
we have made on our journey together. appointments, or aer baby is born. We Every Life Counts also provides a
ERIN O’HARA, MUM TO FREYA can give referrals to community website forum for parents of children
resources, where available. We help who were diagnosed with a terminal
28 Intercom • April 2020April 2020 part 2-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:41 Page 29
Provide Information and Increase
Photo: istockphoto.com
Awareness
Every Life Counts works with mainstream
and social media to increase awareness
about life-limiting conditions, such as
anencephaly and Trisomy 18. Our videos
sharing the experiences of parents have
received millions of views and have
helped many families to feel their baby’s
life was valued and recognised.
ELC have appeared on many national
and local TV and radio programmes and
our families’ stories have been widely
published and shared. Our mission in
regard to increasing awareness is to
ensure that more and more people
understand the needs of our families and
that they also understand that our babies
are precious and loved, and that every life
counts.
Hi. I saw your beautiful video on Every
Life Counts. I would just like to say
thank-you. I am 28 weeks pregnant with
a little boy who was diagnosed with
condition, to share their memories, their consultations to ensure parents and
Trisomy 18, and this was the best thing I
joy, their pain, and their love. Parents says babies are supported and valued. This
could have seen right now.
that sharing their stories through can be a heart-breaking time for parents,
SÍOFRA
individual, personalised web pages, and medics want to know how to best
means they feel their baby’s life was help families. Together, we can make the
Vicky from ELC rang me aer I
valued and recognised, and they also feel pain easier to bear, and ensure families
contacted her aer I got my son’s
they are helping others who may be in have time to love and make memories.
anencephaly diagnosis. I couldn’t speak
the same position. For the first Perinatal Care conference
with the lump in my throat! But she
in Dublin in 2016, we hosted some of the
knew that anyway, so I didn’t have to
If it wasn’t for ELC I would have been world’s leading experts in caring for very
say a word. She made me feel a little
lost, they were essential to my healing. I sick babies and their families, and we are
more relaxed & aer everything
am truly grateful for their help and planning a similar event in 2020.
happened, I understood. She kept in
support on this hard and lonely journey. Attended by doctors, nurses and
touch & was there when I needed her...
GEMMA COILEY, MUM TO BRENDAN, midwives, the conference heard from
and 9 months on she is still there. I got
WHO HAD POTTER’S SYNDROME experts in perinatal hospice care, the
the most beautiful locket for Rossa’s
management and treatment of complex
When I lost my baby boy Troy, back in memory – totally unexpected but truly
conditions for baby, including surgery for
January 2019, Vicky from ELC reached appreciated. ELC does an amazing job
baby in the womb, and best care when
out to me. She gave me great advice, she for us parents facing the biggest struggle
dealing with loss. The conference also
comforted me and still to this day of their lives. I’ve made a friend who I feel
heard from families who had lost their
contacts me to see how I’m doing. This is I can talk to about anything (even
babies to these conditions, a shared
what any bereaved parent needs: though we have never met). I don’t know
experience that all attendees greatly
‘someone to talk to,’ and ELC is perfect where I would be without ELC. True
valued. angels do exist on this earth. Thank you,
for this. They have been there for me We also produce fully-researched,
every step of the way. Thank you. Every Life Counts. If anyone deserves an
accurate and crucially important award for their hard work & emotional
LAUREN KAY-MCDOWELL information in booklet form, and on our presence it’s ELC. Just amazing! Xx.
website. We have provided maternity ROSE FOLEY, MUM TO BABY ROSSA
Work with Health Services hospitals with these booklets, and the
We work with healthcare providers, feedback from staff in the hospitals has
acting as a liaison and a conduit between very positive.
parents and medical and healthcare
professionals, to ensure the experiences I wish to extend my sincere gratitude for
of parents are shared and co-operation is all the wonderful information that you
achieved with the aim of improving sent. We will be eternally grateful for all Vicky Wall,
services for families. your support. The Maternity founder of
Every Life Counts has been pleased to Bereavement study day was a huge Every Life Counts
work with the Irish national health success and very positively received. www.everylifecounts.ie
service to improve bereavement care, and END OF LIFE CARE COORDINATOR,
we continue to participate in SLIGO HOSPITAL.
Intercom • April 2020 29April 2020 part 2-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:42 Page 30
Anticipating the Second Anniversary of
the Repeal of the Eighth Amendment
Photo: istockphoto.com
March for Choice 2012 – Dublin, 29 September 2012
T
he repeal of the eighth amendment The fact is that we lost. We lost the on the issue of abortion, it is not the case
in 2018 was, to many of us, a source argument, but more importantly, we lost that each and every one of those who
of deep grief. The margin of defeat, the culture. Barely a tenth of voters aged voted to repeal were enthusiasts for
however, was no less than shocking. 18 to 24 voted to keep the 8th. Clearly radical and extreme abortion laws. There
Talking to pro-life activists across the they have been failed, and generations is a wide continuum along which voters
country, I know that many woke on the before them likewise. Questions must be find themselves, from ‘only in the most
Sunday aer the referendum in what asked about this failure if we are to have restricted of circumstances,’ such as
seemed to them to be a different country. any chance of success in the future. threat to life or rape, all the way along to
Two thirds of the nation had voted to In the immediate aermath of the third trimester elective abortions.
legalise abortion in Ireland. The vote was referendum, we were told loudly and Many pro-life people are deeply
remarkably consistent, not just in large clearly that it was over, that our time had uncomfortable with supporting
towns and cities but in most rural areas passed, that we were on the wrong side of legislation that clearly permits abortion,
also. history. But remember, one third of the even if creating certain limits or
There are some tempting narratives electorate voted against repeal. Any boundaries. They feel that they are
which we must reject. One is that we did political party that managed to get that becoming in some sense complicit in the
not in fact lose, but that all arms of state vote would be the largest in the country. legitimisation of abortion, that their
and society colluded to steal the vote. We In our system of government, a party support is a tacit approval for limited
must completely reject this conspiracy which has a handful of TDs elected can abortion. Church leaders need to reassure
theory: it is a perfect excuse to surrender find itself in a position of great influence. them on this. Being purist on this is not
and to disengage totally from secular One third of the electorate is what might the way to save any lives, and it is
society, as there would be no point in be called absolutist on the life issue, and precisely (and tragically) the saving of
playing a rigged game. While not many the notion that they are powerless is lives that we must now be concerned
may believe the full-blown conspiracy nonsense. If they choose to compete for with.
theory, a large number of prolife people power, and seek influence rather than If we look to the United States, we see
are finding it hard to keep fighting in hide under the covers, they can put that it is by garnering the support of
what looks like a deeply hostile Ireland. themselves in a position to drive change. those least enthusiastic voters for repeal
What they need is encouragement, not While the majority of those who voted that we may become able either to stop
reasons to retire. against repeal were purists or absolutists expansion and liberalisation of the
30 Intercom • April 2020April 2020 part 2-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:42 Page 31
regime, or actually begin the push-back
Photos: istockphoto.com
process, by introducing more and clearer
limits to the law.
There are practical steps that
individuals and parishes can take, in
conjunction with a continuing public
advocacy campaign. There are a number
of voluntary organisations that are
prolife in ethic and whose charism is to
support mothers and fathers when faced
with an unplanned or challenging
pregnancy. The wonderful work of Every
Life Counts is descried by Vicky Wall in
this issue of Intercom. Whether by
volunteers, expertise, donations, or
whatever is needful, every parish can, in
some small way, help out these
important groups. Also, what they do,
who they help and how they can be Government Buildings (Dáil Éireann) on Kildare Street, Dublin
contacted should be advertised in word
and print. Women need to know there is parishes, give the life arguments, and learn about Catholic art, literature or
help available when they need it, and not help pastors and laity in the most philosophy? Some may say that that is pie
just kind words and good wishes. effective means of communication their in the sky, irrelevant to the ‘ordinary’
position and responding to the other people. But right now, Catholic families
side. Make use of these people. Bring are sending their children off to university,
One third of the electorate voted groups of parishes together if you don’t like shorn lambs into the biting wind,
have the numbers. Hold public talks from hoping and praying the same child comes
against repeal. Any political party invited guests to inform your home. Yet, if there is to be any hope for
that managed to get that vote parishioners and others from the wider the long term, it lies in those same young
would be the largest in the country. community. Anything which increases people. Given the resources and support,
knowledge and sharpens wits is both intellectual and spiritual, they can be
worthwhile doing. the influencers of their generation. To
The attack on the basic rights of the What I am talking about is a kind of effect change, you do not need to be in
most vulnerable has paused only briefly reactive, ad hoc, further education. the majority. Far from it. A few passionate,
to catch breath and gather energy for the Education is absolutely crucial. For the informed voices in the media, both new
next fight. Already in the last Dail, two last couple of years before the and traditional, can be the beginning of
private members bills were in preparation referendum, we fought against repeal. change.
to allow the introduction of euthanasia Inevitably, our thinking had to be short- We must, as I wrote before in these
into Ireland. This attack on the old and term and tactical. Now that we have lost, pages, take ourselves seriously. Long-
the sick is coming down the line. It will be and lost by such a margin, we need to be term change requires long-term thinking.
cloaked in the language of compassion strategic. Strategic thinking includes We are dealing in our country with what
and be feted as modern, decent, mature enquiring within: how is it that so many must be the greatest human rights issues
and respectful of personal choice, both in Irish men and women can complete all of this or any generation. This demands
the media and by many leaders of civil their schooling in Catholic schools, and of us both humility and honesty.
society. yet in certain crucial respects seem Something has failed, and if it is not our
In this article, I am not engaging in a untouched by the experience? ideas then perhaps it is us, what we have
rehearsal of the arguments against A question for all Catholics to reflect done and what we have failed to do.
euthanasia, but we would do well to look on is: What is the purpose and nature of
Anyone interested in organising workshops
to the experience and evolution of this an education that calls itself Catholic?
on communicating the life position, or
practice in Canada, Belgium and the Should an exposition of Catholic
looking for speakers on the issue, in invited
Netherlands. Also, I would recommend bioethics and Catholic anthropology not
to contact the author of this piece, at
reading the debate held in Westminster, be part of a curriculum designed to
michaeljdwyer.5@gmail.com
where a very high standard of analysis intellectually challenge eighteen-year-
was on display, and where, mirabile dictu, olds in the way their maths or history
euthanasia was rejected by a very large syllabus does?
majority. We must alert people that this is Aside from our schools, it seems that Michael Dwyer holds a
coming down the line; we must begin there is little or no thought given to the master’s degree in
ongoing education of adult Catholics in philosophy. His particular
this conversation with our people now,
interests include political
before others frame the terms of the the intellectual riches and traditions of
philosophy, the history of
discussion. their faith. I can easily find night classes in ideas and bioethics. He is
On the issues of euthanasia and conversational Cantonese, computer Director of the Edmund
abortion, there are supports available programming or double-entry Burke Institute,
from pro life groups who will come to bookkeeping, but where should one go to www.edmundburkeinstitute.ie.
Intercom • April 2020 31April 2020 part 2-final.qxp_Layout 1 05/03/2020 11:42 Page 32
This page can be reproduced in parish newsletters, or circulated for parish use. Please include the name of the writer and reference to this issue of Intercom.
Lectio Divina
When God Finally Responds (Job 38:1-4)
Lectio: What the Word says Lord does answer, that the
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
in itself Lord will respond.
At first glance, this short Aware of the manner in
passage may appear to have which Job has spoken to the
little to offer in terms of Lord, might we allow our
reflection and prayer. prayer to be likewise?
However, it is far from Perhaps, like Job, we might
inconsequential. Firstly, note address God openly and
the speaker: none less than honestly. Without fear of
God himself. This is not the being rejected by God, we
first time the Lord speaks in might voice our struggles
the book of Job. Earlier, two and our doubts. This, too, is
conversations with Satan prayer. If, like Job, you were to
resulted in the Lord allowing express your deepest feelings
Job to undergo tremendous to God, what might you say?
suffering and the loss of his What do you need to say to
children, his servants, his God?
livestock, and his health. Secondly, we might look to
As Job and three friends the Lord’s words. God, the
engage in a lengthy Creator, the one who ‘laid the
The Lord Answering Job out of the Whirlwind. From the Butts set.
discussion about Job’s foundation of the earth,’ is
situation and about God, the the one to whom we turn in
Lord remains silent. Despite an initial Noteworthy, too, is this account of prayer, the one we will encounter.
stoic piety – he blesses the Lord – Job is God’s appearance, this theophany. Contemplating God’s creation instils a
far from polite in what he says of God and Although the Lord approaches him, Job sense of wonder and awe regarding God,
to God. His words are highly censorious cannot see the Lord; God is hidden, as it that can move us to prayer beyond words.
and critical of God, at times bordering on were, in and by the whirlwind. The Lord
blasphemy. Over the course of his meets Job, not when Job demands it, but Contemplatio: Being transformed by the
speeches, the intensity of Job’s assault in the Lord’s own time. Furthermore, the Word
grows, as he increasingly loses faith in Lord answers in his way, sidestepping The Lord’s words here mark the
God’s character, justice, and judgement. Job’s questions to focus on creation and beginning of an encounter with the
Nevertheless, he does not forgo the Lord’s knowledge and control of its Creator that is, for Job, somehow
relationship with God but continues to majestic vastness and complexity. transformative. Like Job, allow yourself to
seek it, repeatedly calling on God to Notwithstanding this, God bridges the be changed by God’s words.
answer him. Yet only now, very late in the gap between them and relates to Job.
book, does the Lord respond. That God does so appears to satisfy Job, Actio: Putting the Word into Practice
What is the Lord’s response? The text even though no answer to his ‘why’ is Taken on a virtual tour of the universe,
relates that the Lord answers Job. In fact, forthcoming. Instead, Job is answered, in Job sees reality from the Lord’s point of
the Lord’s opening gambit is to pose a some sense, by his encounter with, and view. Look afresh at our world. Permit
question, make an accusation, and issue a experience of, the Lord. Job is led to the this to lead you to gratitude both for the
challenge. As the divine speech Answerer rather than to the answers. One world and for the invitation to
continues, the Lord will pose rhetorical might ask whether explanations would relationship with the God who made it.
question aer rhetorical question. be of help here. I suggest not, that they
would be of little benefit to Job. Similarly
Meditatio: What the Word says to me/us for ourselves, it is relationship with God,
What matters above all in this passage is the realisation that God is neither distant
nor uncaring, that helps us in difficult Sr Eileen O’Connell OP
that the Lord finally responds. As is the is a sister of the
case elsewhere in the Bible, this may have times, and to a greater extent than any
Congregation of
greater significance than what he will say. answers that God might offer to our
Dominican Sisters of Our
We meet the Lord who has heard Job’s anguished ‘why.’ Lady of the Rosary and
pleas and now responds.That the Lord Saint Catherine of Siena,
speaks is important. In so doing, he offers Oratio: What the Word leads me/us to Cabra. Currently, she is
a reply to Job who has repeatedly sought say one of two Chaplains
as much. We can imagine that the same is How might one pray with this passage of ministering in The
Scripture? To begin with, we might find Catholic Chaplaincy at Queen’s University,
true for us, that the Lord does hear and
encouragement in recognising that the Belfast.
will respond.
32 Intercom • April 2020You can also read
