MARIST MISSIONARIES IN TASMANIA

New Zealand Tablet, 25 May 1911, Page 977

MARIST MISSIONARIES IN TASMANIA

Under the heading, 'Patriotism,' a Tasmanian paper, the Examiner, had recently the following reference to the Marist missionaries, Rev. Fathers O'Connell and McCarthy: • —-'We have at present in our midst two clergymen who intend conducting a series of missions at all the principal coastal centres. To other than Catholics this may be of little interest, but the rev. gentlemen, who are natives of New Zealand, are a credit to their country in so far that they regard the Dominion as an example to other parts of Australasia. It is not done in an egotistical spirit, only by way of encouragement, and then only in matters pertaining to the Church. Notwithstanding this, the congregation or those who follow closely the preachers' remarks, cannot fail to be struck with the patriotic spirit of our visitors. ~As one gentleman remarked, they never seem to lose an opportunity of referring in complimentary terms to their native land." This is quite true, and their attitude in this respect is one worthy of adoption by Tasmaniaus to a man. In this island we have resources and possibilities equal to those of New Zealand, though, unfortunately, not quite so extensive. It should be the duty, then, of every one of us to praise our own State. Quite enough discredit comes from outsiders, and it is to be regretted that Tasmania is condemned by several of her own residents, and by men who should' know better. Love of country does not exist in the hearts of these particular individuals, as is the case of our New Zealand friends. No matter how varied opinions m?v be in politics and other important questions/ we should all be united in endeavoring to uphold the prestige of the State, which, after all is said and done, is our home. No man will go into the street and scatter broadcast anv little shortcomings that may exist in his home. The same disposition should be observed in regard to the State, because if we refuse to speak well of our possessions we cannot expect strangers to do so. Apart from spiritual education, the New Zealand priests referred to are setting an example which unpatriotic Tasmanians would do well do adopt.'