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and Family Sunday
11 October
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Dear friends,
Welcome to our mid-winter edition of LMF News. It is another packed edition! There are just so many great articles and videos and podcasts out there I think we could release a newsletter every week (but don't worry, we won't be).
You will notice just to the left the buttons that connect to our Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Xt3 pages. If you know what those words mean, feel free to join us :)
I was trying to think about what articles to recommend but I recommend then all! You will also find a couple of videos, information on our upcoming Mass for Pregnant Women and a couple of opportunites to get involved in changing the world (just make sure you have a cup of tea with you). Oh, and don't forget the Far Side Cartoon. Be sure to have a look at the article links to the left which will take you where you want to go.
There is one thing I must mention and that is that this month is the one year anniversary of World Youth Day 2008! Amazing! I am sure those who were there still remember that beautiful Opening Mass out at Barangaroo, the Stations of the Cross and the glorious final Mass with the Holy Father...and of course the infectious joy of 200,000 young people filled with the Holy Spirit!
This month the Archdiocese of Sydney will host another very special event and that is SCENE - Sydney Congress Embracing the New Evangelisation. Like World Youth Day, there will be events all across the city, these are events however for youth, adults, children and families. Don't let this event pass you by, get familiar with the congress program and events, register and bring your family and friends to experience transformation in Christ. We will be one of 50 groups running a vocation stall in Martin Place during the Congress!
That is about all, we hope you enjoy this months newsletter and if you do, share the love...use the 'forward to a friend' button at the top. If you are new and want to catch up, you will also find  our past newsletters here.
It always helps to put a face to a name so here is a photo of our team for you to enjoy.
God Bless,
The Life, Marriage and Family Centre Team |
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The Spirtuality of Unrequited Love |
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If you have known the pain...
John Mallon - Unrequited love feels like death. In fact, there are times when death would seem preferable to the  unrelenting pain and frustration. There are those, even in the Church, who would seek to minimise or make light of this most unique agony: "Oh, don't worry about it! Women (or men) are like street cars, there's another one along any minute!" Like Hell.
I don't think there is any other pain quite like that of unrequited love, especially when rejection is involved, although that might even be preferable to being strung along with hopes raised and dashed with punishing regularity. "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a wish fulfilled is the tree of life." (Proverbs 13:12)
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Embracing the Cross of Infertility |
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Turning pain into blessing
There is no need to dwell on explaining the pain that can come to a couple when they have difficulty conceiving or discover they are not able to bear their own children.
The Church acknowledges this pain: "Couples who discover that they are sterile suffer greatly. 'What will you give me,' asks Abraham of God, 'for I continue childless?' And Rachel cries to her husband Jacob, 'Give me children, or I shall die!' ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 2374).
In the following interview, Marie and Joseph Meaney, who were married in 2000, speak of how they discovered and dealt with not being able to have children, and they way in which they turn their particular cross into a blessing for their marriage and for others.
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Praying for Your Children |
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Prayer is the heart of everything, because in prayer we raise our minds and hearts to God, knowing that we receive all good things from above. At it's very foundation, prayer is simply, conversation with God.
 St Thomas Aquinas said that it is not necessary for us to tell God what our needs and desires are, as he knows them all, but rather prayer reminds us, that in those particular areas we need God's assistance. Prayer can be simple and spoken freely, but it can also be beneficial to use the words of others and make them our own.
We need to pray for our families and our loved ones. We need to pray for our children and we need to pray to be parents after the heart of God. Here is just one prayer that you might like to print out and pray each day for your children. Stick it on your computer at work or pray it with your spouse each morning:
And here is a little verse that has been called 'A Parent's Creed'. It reminds us that children learn what they live, the persons they become stem from their experience of family. Pope John Paul wrote in Familiaris Consortio (The Family in the Modern World), that the family has "the mission to guard, reveal and communicate love...a living reflection of God's love."
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The Theology of the Body |
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What is it?
You may have heard of the 'Theology of the Body' (TOB); some of you may have not. The Catechesis of the Theology of the Body was the first major teaching project of Pope John Paul II in 1979. And while he began this series of 129 talks, 30 years ago this year, many people still have no idea what this revolutionary teaching is all about.
TOB is revolutionary because it is a whole new way of looking at sex, sexuality and the human person. TOB begins with the human experience, the desires we have for union with others and the struggles we have to live up to the ideals we have. It is a Theology that is about understanding ourselves and from that being able to see the way in which we can find the happiness we all long for.
It is a teaching that is picking up a massive groundswell among Catholic youth but it is transforming the lives or people of all ages and all vocations.
Christopher West is one of the key people who has helped bring this deep teaching of Pope John Paul to the lives of millions of catholics through his books, CDs and DVDs. Recently five short videos of Christopher's presentations were released onto YouTube and you can watch one of them by clicking on the image above. You will see his other related videos on that YouTube page.
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Marriage Tips |
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Something for Every Couple
~ In a growing marriage the little things are the big things. It's not only marrying the right person. It's BEING the right partner. How are you doing in the little things of your marriage?
 ~ If you're too busy to have a weekly date with your spouse, you may be too busy. Set aside several hours next weekend that you can devote just to each other. This week the wife plans what to do, next week it's the husband's turn.
~ Self nurturing hobbies are healthy but can bleed into selfishness when MY needs become more important than my spouse's. Do I put any deeply held values like faith, fidelity, or family responsibilities at risk to pursue recreation?
~ How do you feel about growing old with your spouse? Talk about your concerns regarding aging - even if you're young. Knowing that your love is unconditional and does not depend on a perfect body is a part of "for better or for worse."
~ "Love does not consist in gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction." (Antoine De Saint-Exupery) What is your most cherished common goal?
~ Love a child today. Even if you are not parents look for a way to care about a child today, especially one you don't have to love. The world needs its children and your love.
 ~ What sacrifice has your marriage called you to make for your beloved, i.e., moving, putting your life on hold, changing an annoying habit? Can you die (just a little) to your own needs today to give life to your spouse or children? Do it generously, not begrudgingly.
~ For some couples children come readily or even by surprise. Others painfully wait month after month hoping to become pregnant. Whatever your circumstance, pray for those who have a different struggle. Believe that they are praying for you.
For Your Marriage is an initiative of the United States Catholic Bishops Conference. You can also sign up for their e-newsletter from their home page.
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When Does Human Life Begin? |
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Keeping Informed
The matter of when human life begins has long occupied the thoughts of mankind. Ironically though, in this era, when we know more about the development of the human person than ever before, the question of the beginning of life is more crucial than ever.
As the role of the Life, Marriage and Family Centre is to extend the research and educational activities of the Church you will find on our website a whole series of facts sheets on various life issues. 'When does human life begin' is one of these papers and it looks at the question of the start of life from a medical, scientific and theological point of view. All of us need solid information to assist in understanding and explaining the issue of human life. You can read the paper here. 
Moment of Conception: The ovum surrounded by sperm in the fallopian tube (magnified x550)
Another resource of note is The Second Look Project. This website is a work of the US Bishops and presents basic facts regarding the development of life and the abortion issue. Abortion continues at a phenomenal rate but there is still a staggering degree of confusion and dismissiveness about the development of life and the reasons people have abortions.
A related and fascinating little webpage is this world clock which calculates, second by second, everything from spam emails to the population in India. If you select the 'Deaths' tab you will see the varied causes of death in the world, and in the bottom right corner you will see the number of worldwide abortions. The figure is greater than any other cause of death, but sadly a figure that is never counted in the total deaths of any nation. Abortion will hopefully one day be realised for the international tragedy that it is.
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Mass for Pregnant Women |
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Supporting Mothers, Fathers and Families
Are you expecting a baby or know someone who is?
Would you like to express your congratulations, prayers and support for pregnant women and their families?
The Life, Marriage and Family Centre is again hosting the annual Mass for Pregnant Women on Sunday 9th August at St Mary's Cathedral. His Eminence George Cardinal Pell will be the main celebrant.
Please join us...and spread the word among your family and friends - you should just send them this whole newsletter...use the 'forward to a friend' button at the top ;)
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Internet Pornography |
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Modern Threat to Marriage and Family
Gerald Korson - Henry seemed to have it all - a loving marriage, four young children, and a solid middle-management position with a local financial corporation. He and his family lived in a good suburban neighborhood and were active in their local parish, where Henry was involved in the music ministry. At 35, he was poised for a promotion to a more lucrative upper-management post.
He always worked long hours, both at the office and at home,  but in recent months he had shown signs of wearing down. To his wife and children, he seemed distant, irritable and gloomy, and he was spending longer and longer hours at the computer. He often missed out on family outings, saying he needed to work. Even his co-workers noticed a change for the worse in his mood, efficiency and productivity. He simply wasn't himself anymore. Everything came crashing down late one evening when Henry's 11-year-old daughter, Hannah, walked in on him as he watched an Internet video of men and women engaging in sexual acts. Horrified, Hannah ran and told her mother, and this now-disillusioned family suddenly had some very serious issues to face. Read the complete article here.
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A Little Laugh from the Far Side |
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R.I.S.E |
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Your Invitation to Make a Difference
In response to the deluge of advertising and media that belittles and abuses the sacredness and place of sex and sexuality, a new youth-generated movement has been born.
RISE - Restoring Integrity and Sexual Ethics - aims to challenge modern attitudes to sex and promote relationships of integrity  and truth especially among young people. Sexual integrity is vital for the health and well being of any society. A society that cheapens and sex and marriage is walking a self-destructive path.
The first event of this movement is the RISE Conference which will be held over two days in August at Parliament House in Canberra. The speakers are Dave Sloan (guest from the USA), and Jonathon and Karen Doyle who will talk on the lost art of dating and courtship.
If you are young and desire to reform the culture, consider the RISE Conference in August. Find details on their website. You can also join them on facebook.
Now, if you don't fall into the 'youth' category but wish to support the ideas of RISE, consider attending the National Marriage Day Breakfast on Thursday 13 August in the Great Hall of Parliament House in Canberra. This inaugural National Marriage Day celebration will  highlight the unique benefits of marriage and seek to lay the foundations for a renewed culture of marriage within our nation.
The Great Hall needs to be filled in support of the great vocation of marriage, so have a look at the details here and consider registering. You will also find on the site a petition that an annual 'National Marriage Day' be placed on Australia's calendar; you might like to print a copy and pass it around.
Edmund Burke famously said in the 18th Century, "All that is necessary for evil to triumph, is that good men do nothing." The phrase is more true than ever in the 21st Century.
Let us not stand idly by.
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Selling Sex...What's the Problem? |
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The Difference Between Sex and Love
Bernard Toutounji - "Want Longer Lasting Sex?"; "Want Longer Lasting... Censored"; "Bonk Longer". Like the plagues that were cast upon the Egyptians, the Advanced Medical Institute (AMI) with its "Nasal Delivery Technology" has descended upon  Australian billboards, newspapers, TV and radio, peddling an alleged cure for impotence. Founded in Australia 16 years ago by Ukrainian-born Jack Vaisman, AMI has recently expanded its operations into New Zealand, Japan, the UK and now the USA.
The AMI campaign, however, is not a medical campaign. Rather it is an attempt to reshape our understanding of the human person and the sexual act and to make a great deal of money in the process. From a commercial point of view it has been a phenomenal success. Read the complete article here.
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The Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia |
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The Life and Work of the Sisters
The Dominican Sisters of Saint Cecilia were founded in 1860 to educate youth. Today, over 240 Nashville Dominicans teach 12,000 students in over 34 schools from preschool to college, in 14 U.S. states and in Australia. In the spirit of St. Dominic, they continue to live a life that is traditional and yet dynamic. Since 2008 the Sisters have established a convent in Sydney.
The Sisters live a life of joy which is infectious and will very much be seen when you watch this video below.
Find out more about the Nashville Dominicans at their website.
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Marriage Deserves More Because it Gives More |
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The Necessity of Marriage in Society
The ongoing debate in Australia over the access of same-sex couples to social benefits and so-called entitlements is a  distraction from the real issue at hand. The real issue is not one concerning any infringement of rights. Rather, it is about what heterosexual marriage can offer society that other forms of relationships cannot.
Married heterosexual unions are not simply a legal invention with an associated bunch of benefits. Committed, enduring heterosexual unions have an intrinsic value which enables them to provide a number of reciprocal benefits to any society. It is the reason why flourishing societies have always acknowledged the importance of marriage and family and accorded it a level of preferential support. It is a vital part of the social estate. Read the complete article here.
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Youth Leaders Formation Course 2009 |
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Want to be Transformed...Read On
Since 2007 the Archdiocese of Sydney has conducted an annual Youth Leaders Formation Course (YLFC). This unique period of formation is held at the Benedict XVI Retreat Centre in Grose Vale. In 2008, 22 young adults aged between 18-32 years completed the course.
The YLFC is an opportunity for participants to immerse  themselves in spiritual, pastoral, intellectual and human formation for one month. The YLFC seeks to build leaders who are transformed by Christ and will serve the mission of the Church in Australia.
It is an amazing week and all who have participated speak of being changed completely. This is one way to build on the rich graces that were expereinced during WYD08.
If you are a young Catholic with a passion to be formed by Christ, or if you know of a young person like this, then be sure to have a look at this webpage where you can also download the flyer.
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More Events For You... |
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 There are a lot of different events coming up and here are a few that you should know about. If you are hosting an event that you think we should be promoting let us know!
Former American Baptist Minister turned Catholic apologist Tim Staples on his Sydney Speaking Tour 'The Bible Made Me Catholic'. Sun 5 to Sat 11 July. A week of free talks, open to all. Check out the details here.
A Night in His Presence. A special time of Eucharist Adoration with the Children of Hope ministry run by the Community of St John, in Australia for SCENE. Friday 10 July. Event details are here. Find out more about the Children of Hope here.
Dinners for Married Couples - This is a chance to meet with other couples, share a meal and grow together. Next dinner Saturday 11 July. Find the details here.
A Day for Familes. The Richness of the Marriage Bond: Communication. Mt Schoenstatt, Mulgoa. Sunday 12 July. Details here.
Congress of the Family will take place in Sydney on Sunday 19 July during the SCENE congress. This day will involve Mass, a family picnic and workshops for parents and children. Note down the details here.
Family Retreats run by the Alliance of the Two Hearts. National schedule through July and August. See here for details.
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The Life, Marriage and Family Centre is an agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney and has been established to extend the research, policy, educational and pastoral activities the Church undertakes with respect to life, marriage and family issues. Our website is http://lifemarriagefamily.org.au.
Thank you for taking time to read our newsletter, we hope it has been of interest. We welcome your comments and feedback at lmfnews@sydneycatholic.org. We hope we will be able to serve you in some capacity in 2009.
Yours in Christ,
The Life, Marriage and Family Centre Team
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