The CATHOLIC THING: A new era in Jewish-Christian Relations
It is often said that the Second Vatican Council, the great Council of reform of the 1960s inaugurated by Pope John XXIII, was a watershed moment in the history of Jewish-Christian relations. Teresa Pirola asks, What did Vatican II say that was so groundbreaking?
An Extraordinary Ordinary Process
When it comes to Synod Assemblies, the “Ordinary” is probably more significant than the “Extraordinary”. The Extraordinary Synod Assembly on the Family happened last October. In October this year the Ordinary Synod Assembly will take place at the Vatican.
No half measures for centenarian Mavis
Recently I had the privilege of attending Mass in the intimate little church of St Laurence O’Toole at Broadmeadow, amidst a tight-knit, loving community of people who had gathered to honour the 100th birthday of one of their own. Mavis Sheedy had done everything in the church, from preparing the altar, serving at the altar, cleaning the church, serving on the Pastoral Council and the Finance Committee and everything in between.
Take the leap of faith and say Geronimo!
When I lost it,
Yeah you held my hand,
But I tossed it,
Didn't understand...
Bringing light to the darkness
The Taizé style of prayer is often promoted in Aurora. Organiser Anna Hill explains her commitment to this practice.
The CATHOLIC THING: What ‘on earth’ are Catholics doing at Sunday Mass?
I am what people call a ‘cradle Catholic’. Twelve days after I was born, my parents took me to St Columba’s, Adamstown, where I was baptised by Fr Doran. Since then, Sunday Mass has been a regular part of my life.
The CATHOLIC THING: Bothering about "the church"
"The Church: Why bother?" That question is the topic of an essay in "The Church", a course I’m currently teaching.
Cold Case: The mystery of the missing chalice
The year is 1941 and the Clyne family, including Mum, Dad and eight other siblings, farewell Patrick – son, brother, uncle, relative – as he goes off to war at 25, as did so many other young Australian men who answered the call to fight for their country. He was sent to Singapore, but never returned.