Sister Feralia reporting after a long break...

To all Sisters, Hi!

As we gathered, singing Be Not Afraid, on the beach for the Festival I was reminded of the Immensity of Creation, and the role of the Great White Shark in that process.

The Blessing of the Sharks ceremony was conducted by Father Farzenheim of the Divine Wrath Fathers. I know that we have had our differences over the years, but his attendance will surely be part of a New Healing Process. We are grateful for Father's homily concerning God's Vengeance and the role of saltwater creatures in fulfilling the wrath of the divinity against those who wallow in the sun and water on Saturdays and Sundays instead of being on their knees in awe and trepidation of the End of Days.

I was reminded of the success of our Crocodile Festival long ago and how, apart from the loss of one of our Congregation, it gave a new dimension to the realm of Ecology and Faith.

Similarly, this year's Total Immersion Ceremony was another landmark. The disappearance of Sister Consumpta and her beloved dog, of course, was a matter of regret to all in the community. We have sent her family our regular Condolence Card which has proved frequently and immensely popular in the past. But we have to focus on the Bigger Picture.

Watching the fins of God's Aquatic Creation coursing through the sea and occasionally leaping into the air, showing their flashing teeth as a sign of Joy and Power, I was reminded of the fact that we are all minnows in the tide.

Father Farzenheim's refusal  to enter the water was a source of disputation, as was his refusal to don a lifesaver's cap as part of his liturgical dress. Attempts by the Neocatechumenate Choir to push some of our good Sisters into the water can be attributed to Youthful Enthusiasm. I was reminded of the Post-Vatican II Hymnal Riots of 1967. We must, however, continue in the Spirit of Sacrifice.

On the beach we displayed the guitar of Sister Francina, of Blessed Memory, as it was the anniversary of her passing in the mosh pit. Also on exhibition was her autographed picture of Harry Belafonte and her collection of vinyl records, including her favorite 'Dominique' by Sister Smile. We are unafraid of confrontation as on the occasion when Catholics United For An Aryan and Liberal Faith attended our Blue Mountains Kumbya Remembrance Festival. In rainforest or deep blue water, we are UNAFRAID. Be Not Afraid is our favourite hymn. However, I am not sure I agree with Father Farzenheim's constant message that 'What we need in our Church is a higher level of young testosterone'. How can we get him to get in touch with his Feminine Side like Father 'Leaper' Leppington?

Well, Sisters, we have seen what testosterone can do at a Sacred Music Festival. That's all I can say.

Until next time, Feralia

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©2009Cliff Baxter

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