PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
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Sunday, 17 November 2024 | Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B |
Readings for Sunday, 17 November 2024 - Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.Year B FIRST READING- Dan 12:1-3 Ps 16:5+8, 9-10, 11. “Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.” SECOND READING- Heb 10:11-14, 18 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 21:36). Alleluia, alleluia! Be watchful, pray constantly. That you may be worthy to stand before the Son of Man. GOSPEL- Mark 13:24-32 |
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Mark 13:31)
(Image: https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/3PHsKYpzn8crhf5CNs3a?ru=Paul-Evangelion
We congratulate the ANDERSON, PRATT, BLOOMFIELD, BLACKHURST and SCHULER families whose children, ADELAIDE, HENRY, HUDSON, HANNAH and KNOX will be baptised in our Parish this week. Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey. |
ST VINCENT DE PAUL CHRISTMAS PLANNING AND FUNDRAISING
SVDP Christmas Appeal Surfers Paradise Conference
As we all look towards the Advent season and prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, the Surfers Paradise St Vincent de Paul conference calls on all parishioners to help give hope to struggling local families.
On the weekend of 23rd & 24th November Vincentians will hand out scrolls with specific items you can contribute as a gift towards our Christmas hampers. Each year, this appeal allows for the distribution of hampers to companions and families in our community who are struggling due to financial difficulties. Please drop off donations no later than Wednesday 11th December as our Christmas hampers will be available for pick up or distribution on Sunday 15 th December 2024.
On the weekend of the 7 th and 8 th December, the SVDP Surfers Paradise conference annual Christmas appeal will take place with collections at the end of every Mass. This financial appeal is critical for our conference to urgently assist those in need.
The generosity of the parish does not go unnoticed in our local community. In the last 12 months local Vincentians have done 616 visits and assisted 1,311 people directly and indirectly. We have provided financial assistance of $63,477, in-kind assistance (furniture, Christmas hampers, food and Vinnie’s gift cards for clothing etc.) of $20,230.
We are seeing an increase in those facing homelessness, due to high cost of living and housing crisis. With your ongoing support, we can continue to provide comfort and tangible assistance to help people get back on their feet. Local Vincentians offer help in many forms, including food, clothing, furniture, rental assistance and other bills.
Your generous donation will help us continue these good works. Should you wish for more detail on the activities of the conference, or would like to become a member please contact Conference President Wendy Webb via email: wendy.webb@svdpqld.org.au
In case you miss out on a scroll… here is the list you can select from. Please provide one or more or the following items which will be put into the Vinnies Christmas hampers….
Christmas Scrolls for Parish Christmas Appeal :
Event Cinema Gift Card (Movie ticket)
Walkers Shortbread
Cadbury Chocolate Coated Almonds (280g)
Corinthians Cream Wafers Chocolate Style (350g)
Plumrose Ham leg (450g)
Fruit salad in juice (825g)
Fruit Mince Pies 2 x (pkt 6)
Pretzel Minis Entertainment Party Bag 2 x (225g)
Christmas Pudding (700g)
Nescafe Coffee Cappuccino sachet (10pkt)
Long life Custart 2 x (1 litre)
Lollies Party mix 2 x (100g)
PASTOR’S POST -
As the month of Holy Souls nears its end, our focus in the Liturgy turns to preparedness for the Lord in the many ways Our Lord comes to us in our daily lives and events. And to also be prepared for when we will face Our Lord at the end of our lives.
Timely thought in November. Let Your Loved Ones know your wishes for Catholic Funeral Rites.
Quite a while ago (more than thirteen years ago), I decided that around November, the month of Holy Souls, it would be a good time to share an annual thought on the centrality of a Christian funeral in the life and death of God’s cherished sons and daughters.
I chose November, the month of the HOLY SOULS, so that it would be a neutral time to share this thought – and to make it clear that this is something I raise around this time every year and the message is not directed at any particular cases but is a timely sharing of a universal principle. Some family members of regular Mass-attending Catholics may be unaware of the close bonds their loved ones have with fellow parishioners, friends and neighbours, who would dearly appreciate the opportunity to attend their Christian funeral when the time comes.
Over the years, I have been surprised on more than a few occasions, and so have other parishioners, when a long-term member of a Catholic community (who was a regular and devout Mass attendee and often a weekly Sunday communicant or even a daily communicant), is buried or cremated without any ceremony or a Catholic funeral rite because their immediate family were unaware of the centrality of a Catholic funeral for their loved one. It is vital that people let their families know of their desire for a Catholic funeral prayer service and make this wish known clearly and broadly (preferably in writing and kept with other important documents, readily accessible to those who will be responsible for carrying out the arrangements). I have heard of situations where a regular church-attending Catholic does not want to be any trouble to their children, so they do not insist on what we all know they would dearly have loved. If people attending are unfamiliar with the mass responses and are not regular participants in the Eucharist, a funeral prayer service might be more appropriate than a Mass. A Catholic prayer service at a funeral chapel is permissible where circumstances best permit it. A church should be the first and best consideration unless other factors prevent them. In short, I am asking everyone to prayerfully consider telling their loved ones quite emphatically that they desire a Catholic funeral service and leaving clear written instructions to that effect. It will save any confusion later. 
Another great idea is for people to consider pre-planning many of the elements of their funeral – we have a resource on our parish website - https://fs19.formsite.com/paulkelly/form7/index.html and also pre-preparation paperwork with a funeral director of your choice can also be of enormous assistance to loved ones if the unexpected happens. At times of bereavement, people have to plan funerals when they are naturally in the most distressed and stressed circumstances. Any prior preparation in these matters will help to ease any worries from loved ones about whether they are fulfilling your wishes regarding funeral arrangements.
God bless.
Fr Paul
(this is adapted from parts of an article I wrote in the parish newsletter in October 2017)
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the opening of Saint Augustine’s Catholic Church Coolangatta. A special mass and morning tea:
NOVEMBER MASS ENVELOPES AND THE BOOK OF LIFE REMEMBRANCES
When you place a request in a November Mass Envelope for a Mass to be offered for your deceased loved ones, the priests will take these Special Intentions to the Masses they preside over. Names from November Mass Envelopes are not read out individually in the Prayer of the Faithful or mentioned individually at Mass by the Presider. The names that are listed in the Book of Life Remembrances are remembered as a group in the Prayer of the Faithful. All Masses in all Churches for November will be offered with the Souls of the Departed as their Special Intentions.
November Mass Envelopes, along with the Book of Life Remembrances, can be found at the back of all the Churches. These envelopes enable you to add the names of your deceased loved ones and friends.
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ON THIS SUNDAY - IT IS ALSO “WORLD DAY OF THE POOR”
Pope Francis to have Sunday lunch with 1,300 guests on World Day of the Poor
Article by Kristina Millare
Pope Francis raises his glass at the start of a lunch with poor and economically disadvantaged people in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall on Nov. 19, 2023. | Credit: Daniel Ibanez/CNA
Pope Francis will have lunch on Sunday, Nov. 17, at the Vatican with 1,300 people “who hold a privileged place in God’s heart” as part of celebrations to mark the eighth World Day of the Poor.
This year’s lunch, organized by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity in collaboration with the Italian Red Cross, will be held inside the Paul VI Hall as a sign of the Holy Father’s desire to be close with “those who are most in need: the poor, the marginalized, the suffering, and the forgotten.”
In anticipation of the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, Pope Francis’ message for the eighth World Day of the Poor stressed the importance for the Catholic faithful to be aware of the presence and needs of the “poor whom we encounter daily.”
“As we journey toward the holy year, I urge everyone to become pilgrims of hope, setting tangible goals for a better future. Let us not forget to keep ‘the little details of love’ (Gaudete et Exsultate, 145): stopping, drawing near, giving a little attention, a smile, a caress, a word of comfort,” he wrote.
Since establishing the World Day of the Poor in 2016, which is celebrated each year one week before the solemn feast of Christ the King, the pope has held the annual tradition of welcoming Rome’s poor into the Vatican to dine with him and be served lunch.
Last year, the Dicastery for the Service of Charity worked alongside Hilton Hotels and the Community of Sant’Egidio to provide approximately 1,200 lunches — which included cannelloni, meatballs with tomato sauce, cauliflower purée, tiramisu, and small pastries — for refugees, the homeless, and men and women who are suffering economic disadvantage.
From Nov. 11–16, the Madre di Misericordia clinic offers those in need with emergency services, internal medicine, flu vaccines, blood tests, swabs, and dressings as well as specialized medical visits including dentistry, surgery, and cardiology.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s World Day of the Poor, “The Prayer of the Poor Rises Up to God (cf. Sir 21:5),” the Holy Father insisted that care for those in need must not stop at providing material aid only.
“We need to make the prayer of the poor our own and pray together with them,” he said. “The worst discrimination that the poor suffer is the lack of spiritual care.”
“The great majority of the poor have a special openness to the faith; they need God and we must not fail to offer them his friendship, his blessing, his word, the celebration of the sacraments and a journey of growth and maturity in the faith. Our preferential option for the poor must mainly translate into a privileged and preferential religious care,” he continued, citing his 2013 apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium.
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/260425/pope-francis-to-have-sunday-lunch-with-1300-guests-on-world-day-of-the-poor
Creative Christmas Market - (Hospitality Centre - 7/12/24)
Saturday, December 7th, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Art, craft, jewellery, plants, candles,
So much more from local artisans.
All works are done with meticulous art and love.
“Everything must be new.”
Place: Hospitality Centre, Sacred Heart, near the Sacred Heart—Sacred Grounds coffee shop, 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. Applicants interested in selling their creativity are welcome to apply.
Contact: Grace Greenhouse
0475 134 414 or 0410 006 484. Plants Boutique and Gifts
Children’s Nativity Play 2024
All parish children, and children visiting from parishes elsewhere, are invited to be part of our Children’s Nativity Play.
Our Children’s Nativity Play for 2024 will be part of our 5pm Christmas Vigil, Family Mass celebrated in Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, on Tuesday December 24.
We ask that children who are interested in being involved on the evening of the Christmas Vigil Mass attend three practices at Sacred Heart Church:
Practice 1 - Wednesday, December 18 beginning at 10:30am until midday
Practice 2 - Friday, December 20 beginning at 10:30am until midday
Practice 3 - Monday, December 23 beginning 10:30am until midday.
The practices will be led by our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson and assisted by Marylou Ayres who is a member of our Parish Sacramental Team. Throughout each practice, children attending must be accompanied by a parent or an adult designated by the parents of the child/ren.
You are most welcome to email Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au to indicate your child’s interest or you can simply turn up at the church on the day of the first practice.
FANS and DOORS in OUR CHURCHES
It's that time of year again. Please note that the church has a policy regarding fans, windows, and doors.
DURING CHURCH SERVICES - FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING the HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON PLEASE AND DOORS TO BE LEFT OPEN PLEASE FOR AIR CIRCULATION AND BREEZES! Please Don't Ask The Coordinator To Turn Them Off. And no one has permission to touch or switch the fan settings except our coordinators. Also, please do not close the doors (or windows) of the church,m as we need fresh air for the well-being of others. The same applies if it starts raining outside. Please do not shut doors and windows, as almost all of these are protected by balconies and verandahs, and there is virtually no chance of rain getting in. Even when it is raining, it can still be hot and humid, and closing things up and turning off fans worsens the situation. Coordinators are following Church Health and Safety directions. It may be necessary to relocate to another seat that suits your needs better or bring something warm to put on. As you can imagine, we cannot adjust these large spaces to meet everyone’s personal needs, so we need to set them for general conditions, and individuals can then bring whatever they require for their individual needs. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
AN INVITATION FROM TOM BLACKHURST AND FAMILY
We have booked our youngest, Hannah, in to be baptised on Sunday, 17 November 2024. at 10.30 am Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. Since the Parish and its members have become like family to us over the last 5 years, and there are so many, we'd like to invite them. We are very excited about Hannah's special day and can't wait to celebrate. Kind regards, Tom Blackhurst.
The Café - “Sacred Grounds” - Located at the Former Atrium Building near the Sacred Heart Church.
The café outside the Sacred Heart Church has been a wonderful gathering place for parishioners, school parents, staff, and the wider public. The feedback has been that the café is a great idea, but its location in the front of the church is not ideal. The café has now re-opened in the old Atrium building. This will allow community building whilst giving the church the space it needs for its Masses, Weddings, Baptisms and solemn Funerals. Please support this excellent continuation of the parish vision. Chris and his staff are delighted to welcome you. 
A SPECIAL VISIT AND REFLECTION AT THE DIVINE WILL CHAPLET MEETING
The local divine will chaplet hosted the Divine Will Sisters this past week. Mother Gabrielle Marie was a Poor Clare for 33 years before. Through divine inspiration and with an Italian bishop, the writings of the Divine Will started the order. There are now 24 sisters, and more joining.
There are four sisters who visited. Three from USA and one from Croatia. Two live in the main house in Italy, and Mother and young Sr Jacinta live in Tennessee USA.
The central point of Divine Will is to desire the fulfilment of the Our Father prayer.
Thy Kingdom come Thy Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Like the people desiring the messiah, our desire is for His Kingdom to be built on love, living and active in every soul on earth.
The sisters also sing like angels!
Fr Dan Ryan’s PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY IN THE 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
2025 - Holy Year Pilgrimage In Italyould you like to go to Italy with Fr Dan Ryan next May for the Holy Year?
Fr Dan Ryan has organised a Pilgrimage to Italy from May 9th to May 24th.
We will spend 4 nights in Assisi and 4 nights in Rome.
The Pilgrimage will go from Venice to Rome via Florence, Padua, Siena, and San Giovanni Rotonda (Padre Pio).
There will be brochures at the front of the church next week, or you can go to
https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/pv2569 - for more information. Or you can contact Harvest Journeys on 1800 819 156
Fr Dan Ryan.
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THE BIBLE TIMELINE – THE STORY OF SALVATION
ADULT FAITH FORMATION BIBLE STUDY
From One Holy Couple (Creation) to One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church (Today)
WHEN: On the last Sunday of the Month. The next Session No. 3 will be held on 24 November.
WHERE: in the Parish Hospitality Room - (next to Sacred Heart Church), 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters
Queensland 4226, on Sundays from 10 am – 12 pm.
There is no cost; however, to participate, you will need to purchase The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation Study Set, which can be obtained from Ascension Press or Garrett Publishing. The Study Set will contain The Bible Timeline Study Book, Chart and Bookmark - https://ascensionpress.com/ https://garrattpublishing.com.au/
Around seven years ago, we looked at Unlocking the Mysteries of the Bible. This study program is the complete study version, an In-depth Exploration of Salvation History, which will require considerable pre-reading monthly of various sections of the Bible, and that is why we will do it monthly to ensure we allow ourselves sufficient time to give this Study our full participation. This way, we will get the most from the sessions, and once we see the big picture of the Bible, we will be able to understand Scripture in a whole new way. The Mass readings will make more sense. You will see how our beliefs as Catholics are rooted in Scripture, your prayers will come to life, and you will know how you are part of this remarkable story.
The Bible Timeline® study program takes you on a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Using a unique colour-coded chart, you will learn the Bible's significant people, places, and events and discover how they all come together to reveal the remarkable story of our Faith. Bookings can be made by ringing the Parish Office (new): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 1 pm Mon-Fri). We’re excited to be able to present this resource, so please join us.
2024 Enrolments for the Childhood Sacraments (Sacrament of Confirmation, Sacrament of Eucharist [First Holy Communion] and the Sacrament of Penance [Reconciliation]) have closed. 2025 Enrolments for Childhood Sacramental Preparation are open. Dates for the Preparation and Celebration of Childhood Sacraments in Surfers Paradise Parish will be advertised in this newsletter from December this year. To enrol your child, please go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au and hover the mouse over the word Sacraments (top of page) to reveal the menu. Choose the Sacrament name that your child is eligible to prepare for; click on that sacrament name. (The information on each Sacrament page will tell you if your child is eligible for that particular sacrament.) On the sacrament page, click on the blue box with white writing - CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM. Complete the form and click on SUBMIT. The form will then come to our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator and you will receive an automated reply. Check the newsletter regularly for Sacramental updates and information. For example, the newsletter will tell you when in 2025, you should expect to receive an email form our coordinator to begin the program. |
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
Sacred Heart 50 Fairway Drive Clear Island Waters, 4226 | Saturday Night - 5 pm (Note: Reconciliations from 4-4.30 pm at Sacred Heart) *Note: First Saturday of the month, morning Mass, Adoration and Benediction: 9 am 7th December 2024 Sunday - 9 am and 6 pm Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 a.m. (Healing masses resume the First Tuesday in February). {First Friday Night of the Month - Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at Sacred Heart Church - First Fridays of the Month, from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch with Me for one hour?" Mt 26:40}. |
St Vincent’s 36 Hamilton Avenue. Surfers Paradise 4217 | Sunday - 8 am & 10 am (Hispanic Mass – 5.30 pm every Sunday)
Extra parking is available only metres from St Vincent’s Church, King’s Car Park, and entry via Beach Road. It is also available on Remembrance Drive opposite the church, next to the new Essence Building. |
Stella Maris 254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, 4218 | Saturday - 5 pm
Sunday - 7 am
|
Hispanic (Latino American) Mass: Fr. Syrilus Madin. 5:30 pm Mass - Every Sunday - St Vincent’s Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise. Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Polish Mass: Fr Jerzy Prucnal (Bowen Hills 3252 2200). 12:30 pm Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. Gold Coast Contact: George Syrek 0411 302 802 - Italian Mass: Sunday, Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. For further information about the Italian Mass on the Gold Coast, please contact Fr Luis Antonio Diaz Lamus (Scalabrinian Missionary) at ladl71@hotmail.com or Giovanna at gianna52@hotmail.com
Maronite Mass: Fr Fadi Salame 0421 790 996. The 6.30 pm Maronite Saturday Vigil is at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. |
GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, tap and other higher denominations now available on the new devices.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 6/12/24, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am Saturday 7/12/24. Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
IN OUR PRAYERS (Please contact us so we can keep these names up-to-date, and let us know when to remove the name from the list). |
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Please also pray for the following who are ill. (Alphabetical)
Lindsay Allan, Robert Andreas, Joseph Antony, Milroy Antony, Tricia Baumann, Nellie Bellinger, Graham Bousen, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Nadia Ceh, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Shirley Croft, Christopher Cunningham, Mary Curmi, Bernie Delaney, Christopher Eid, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Mary Hirst, Andrew Janiec, Jenny Johnson, Sr Elisabeth Keane, Leona Kelly, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Dannielle Therese Larney, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Carmela Parente, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Karsten Rickert, Bob Rogers, Betty Taylor, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Billy Webb.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Baby Mila Annie Long, Isobel Mary Corvesor, Fred Downham, Patricia Sulzberger, Marie Dodsworth, Christine Jones, Peter Norris, Geraldine Clissold, Des Stuckey, Giuseppe (Joe) Currenti, Alfonso Covino, John Carey, Tommy Harris, Rosa Maria Tassone, Antonius Bennik, Alexis McCoy, Brenda Stewart, Peter Kane, Helen Nugent, Olympia Georgiou, Caroline Moulden, Frank Anthony Armanasco, Ma. Cristina Cruzada Lenihan, Colleen Williams, Merle Maiden, Bill Brewer, Damian Mullins.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
All Holy Souls, including those in the Books of Remembrance. &
Eve Barry, John Bastable, Arthur Bocking, Fr Harold Buckley, Guiseppe (Joe) Canavo, Maurice Cook, Dora Crisante, Alfred Desira, Eileen and John Dougherty, Fr Patrick Flanagan, John David Foulds, Lindsay Horne, Ian Richard Garrick Kentley, Marko Mazic, Irene Bridget McPhie, Paul Louis France Melanie, (Birthday anniversary of the late beloved Shirley O’Brien, Wayne Allan Pearce, Garry Edward Pearse, Grahame Roberts, Sidney James Slater, Sandra Smart, Remedios Solatan, Kelly Marie Sutherland, Jameal Tooma, Elizabeth Anne Topalov, Dr Rodney "Michael" Tracey, Giacomo (Jack) Ulliana, Bridget Weston, Anne Weston.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
James Kenneth Ackroyd, Dorothy Briffa, Pauline Margaret Brooks, Bruce Barry Basil Buckley, Ronald George (Ron) Burnell, Fr Cornelius Cahalane, Ivan Victor Clark, Effie Elizabeth Clark, Elizabeth Margaret Coffey, June Marea Cogan, Pat Conway, Bridget Frances Dalton, Pauline Mary Dolan, Benjamin Gage, Fr Michael Gallagher, Fr Stan Griffith, Sim Bee Hiang, Giuseppe (Joe) Iulianetti, Halam & Amelia Japour, Phillip Aldur Kaljo, Mary Kirsch, John Bernard Landrigan, Agnes Kean Main McDermott, Stanley McQuee, Vere Menefy, Fr Stephan Miklos, Samir Moussa, Shirley Elizabeth O'Brien, Bob And Rose O’Sullivan, Mario Pase, Mary Catherine Reeves, Dulcie May Ricks, Elizabeth Mary Pauli Rose, Anne Ryan, John Reginald Slattery, Fr Edmond (Ted) Stapleton, Bob Sutcliffe, Westgate, Bruck, Woodgate & Wheeler families, Alan Whitbread, Phyllis (Phyl) Woodhead
HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY -
HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES' FIRST RESPONDERS TO NEEDS WITHIN THE HOSPITALS LISTED.
To efficiently and speedily deal with the pastoral needs around the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes within this Deanery have the practice of having the first call for emergencies go to the priests of the parish where the hospital is located. Here is a helpful guide to the hospitals and their attendant priests. A nursing home call also follows this procedure, where the first priest to call is a priest from the parish within which the Nursing Home is located. Please help us service the region effectively and help prevent delays in response by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5576 6466
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
NOTICES AND MESSAGES - Our new parish number is 5671 7388 |
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
The shops are well stocked for Christmas, with plentiful supplies of inexpensive Christmas gifts plus Christmas cards, Columban Calendars, and many new Christmas nativities.
A few copies of our Advent resource “HOPE REIGNS” still available at $5. per copy.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at 8:15 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 6/12/24, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, 9 a.m. Saturday, 7/12/24. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP
The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays from 9 am to 12 noon. Activities include
Art (watercolour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink drawing, etc.)
Various kinds of Craftwork (Knitting, Embroidery, Crocheting, Card making, Sewing, etc.)
Making Rosary Beads (later sent to the missions)
And any other activities that individuals may have an interest in, or you can bring in your ideas
A very relaxing and social environment - meet new friends! You are most welcome to join.
For further information, phone the Parish Office.
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB-
Meets at the Sacred Heart - Parish Hospitality Centre, Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters.
Playing Bridge keeps your brain active and increases your social network! So why not give us a try? Learn to play Bridge at “Our Friendly Club” - Free Lesson. “Introduction to Bridge” - It is Easy to learn the format. No previous card-playing experience is necessary. All are welcome. For more information and to enrol, please phone Cheryl at 5538 8821.
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE -
Join us for our social class in the Parish Hospitality Centre next to the Parish Office. Classes run every Tuesday at 10:45 a.m. Learn to relax yet gain greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness and concentration while increasing your breath support and general well-being. Ruth is an IYTA-accredited instructor with wide experience and runs a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session costing $10 (new attendees, please arrive by 10:30 a.m. to prepare adequately for class). For more information, please emailsurfers@bne.catholic.net.au.
OUR LADY’S STATUE -
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady’s Statue in the Parish -
Details of the Statue of Our Lady are going around the Parish.
If you want her in your home and say the Rosary,
Please contact Maxine or Pat. For more information, please email: psela@bigpond.com
or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Our Lady’s Statue details for the next several weeks are:
18/11/24 Luciana Lang & Family Robina
25/11/24 Suzanne Joseph Robina
2/12/24 Suzanne Joseph Robina
9/12/24 Julio & Eileen Camera Nerang
16/12/24 Julio & Eileen Camera Nerang
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
Join Rochelle for a fun, functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65’s. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Wednesday from 5-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church,
(40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise). Come along and read/study Break Open the Word
weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP (Last meeting will be on 10th December)
The meditation group meets in the Morris prayer room on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It would very much like to welcome new members. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesus de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate every 2nd Saturday of the month from 11 am to 2 pm. Place: Hospitality Room. Sacred Heart Church. “We praise, We praise, We grow spiritually from the Word of the Lord.” For more information, please contact Grace. For more information, please email:grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
MARIAN PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church 13.11.2024 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573, Chris Raynal 0451 302 674, all are welcome.
YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE
Prayer for the intercession of Saint Cecilia
Let us pray, O Eternal God, who gave us in the person of St. Cecilia, a powerful protectress, grant that after having faithfully passed our days like herself, in innocence and holiness, we may one day attain the land of beatitude, where in concert with her, we may praise you and bless you forevermore in eternity. Amen.
Source: https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=555
https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/year-of-prayer/
A VOCATION VIEW: Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time - B
‘As I keep the Lord ever in my sight ... my heart rejoices, my soul is glad ... You will show me the path of life, the fullness of joy in Your presence’. (Psalm 16) Let our vocation be to be one with God forever.
As Christians, our sole inheritance is Christ; everything else is temporal and fleeting. Let us rejoice in His calling, that we might have His strength in order to respond to the invitation to “Come! Follow me.”
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP - November 3, 2024 -31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
“And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory.” (MARK 13:26)
We will all have that day when we are standing before God and our life is played out like a movie. When this happens and God asks each of us, “What have you done with the gifts that I have given you?” How will you respond? The good news – it’s never too late to start living a grateful and generous lifestyle. The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous, and accountable for what each has been given.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Christ the light shine
It used to be that sensible people shrugged off most apocalyptic talk as a religious scare tactic. After all, only Chicken Little seriously believes the sky is falling and life as we know it is ending! Yet the present global situation makes apocalypse sound pertinent, even descriptive of the texture of our times. The light of hope can seem dimmer than ever; nonetheless, when fear begins to sound like the wisest course and paralysis the only option, hold fast to the Good News and its promise of light and life!
HOMILY: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.
This weekend, our Lord warns his disciples that there are tough times, stormy times ahead, not only for him but for his immediate followers and all who come after them.
But, in the midst of this, he offers hope. He says, don't be fooled. The end has not come. Witness to the truth of my message. I will be with you. I will be faithful to you, even if following me causes hardship.
In some ways, all this talk in the readings this weekend of end times and the last judgment and the day of the Lord and the like, is about saying all things come to an end, except the things that last forever. The things of abiding and eternal value last forever.
Only that which lasts should be sought after. And the one thing that endures forever is love. God is love and all who live in love abide in God forever.
One of the most unexpected and, in many ways, unwelcome things that has come about in the last few years is, by social media and new technologies, ones see the emergence of a countless number of self-proclaimed experts who claim to know the book of Revelation, and other apocalyptic passages like today's message from John, and the first reading. Thousands of people have suddenly awarded themselves doctorates in scripture, theology, and ecclesiology without reference to the authentic scholarship and interpretation from the church over thousands of years. So, large numbers of these “experts” have come out of the woodwork and are happily telling anyone who will listen, and some who'd rather not, what the true meaning of the books of the Bible is.
And as people have done so many times in the past, they're telling everyone that these passages are predicting what's happening right now. They'll even lecture lifelong scripture experts and preachers about the meaning. However, their information has been cobbled together from YouTube or fundamentalistic and often non-Catholic sources (which at other times have been unapologetically anti-Catholic). They use those same texts differently when it suits their argument to accuse the Catholic Church of being the enemy predicted in these same apocryphal texts, which we know is nonsense and grossly lacking in Christian charity.
We cannot say this strongly enough: do not listen to these prophets of doom and misinformation. Let us take our counsel and information from reliable sources, including the 2000 years of tradition, study, and teachings of the Catholic Church and its teachers, saints and scholars. Don't be fooled.
That is Jesus' own words of warning in the scriptures today, “do not be misled. The end has not yet come.” He also says quite clearly that we do not know the time or the hour. If even Jesus does not know the hour or the day, who are these other “experts” who claim to know better than the Lord?
How anyone could claim to predict the future with any clarity is beyond me.
There are so many things that we could be tempted to put our trust and energy into, things that we value but are not necessarily of abiding value, which we can try to wrap up and spend so much time protecting and storing away. But then, when we go to check on it, it's gone. It has slipped through our hands because it's only temporary.
In this weekend's gospel, Jesus is not merely warning us about the impending end of the world, which 2000 years later has still not come, despite countless predictions to the contrary in every century since. Rather, Christ is asking us, his disciples, to make sure our values and actions are directed to the coming of Christ's kingdom in every aspect of our lives, here and now.
And in the future, those Kingdom Values will indeed come to life in its fullness. That's why I love this quote. It's from John Henry Newman, who is now an official saint of the church.
He says, “I observed then, that though Christians throughout the centuries may have been mistaken in what they took to be the signs of Christ's imminent return in glory, the second coming, yet they were not wrong in their state of mind, and they were not mistaken in looking out for Christ and being ready to respond to Christ in their daily lives.”
As another scripture scholar points out, the late Gustavo Gutierrez, in the context of the whole chapter of this gospel passage, Jesus is speaking about the imminent destruction of the temple, which people, 2000 years ago, were taking as the be-all and end-all of religion and experience and achievement. Jesus is saying even with this unthinkable tragedy of the complete destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, this is definitely not the end. (Even if it feels like it).
Even when the temple is destroyed, still keep hoping. The kingdom is still coming. His good news is not about turning his word into a safe, secure, exclusive or privileged object for people to get complacent about.
His good news is about loving service and paying the price for the values that last. And it's about standing with those who are suffering. It is also about realising that this will come at an enormous cost, not just for our Lord, but for all who dare to follow his values and path.
But the most reassuring thing about this weekend's gospel is the line by Jesus: Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Jesus' words, Jesus' gospel, Jesus' values, and Jesus' kingdom will never, ever pass away. These are of eternal value.
So let us cling rightly to his word, which lasts forever. Let us nurture his word and values in our daily lives. Let us build on the permanent and strong foundations that our lives and priorities are based on the gospel values, the kingdom values, because these cannot be taken and cannot be destroyed.
And investing in any other values or priorities is pure folly and eventually will pass away. The Lord's word remains forever, including these words, where Jesus said,
“What good is it if you gain the whole world, and lost your soul?”
And these words too…
Love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you…
The greatest among you is the one who serves….
There is more joy in heaven over one repentant sinner than over 99 who did not need to repent…
…..Neither do I condemn you….
Seek first the Kingdom of God and all these other things will be given you…
The law was made for humanity and not humanity for the law…
What I desire is mercy and not sacrifice…
Is it against the law to do good or to do evil….
I tell you solemnly, this poor widow has put in more than all of the treasury…..
Unbind him… set him free...
Anyone who is not against us is for us….
Whatsoever you do to the least of these brothers and sisters of mine… you do it to me….
In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
He who is forgiven little loves little.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? ……. And if you greet only your brothers and sister, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me."
These words and so many more of Christ’s words, which we are so privileged to have preserved in the living word of the Scriptures…. will NEVER pass away.
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To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE |
https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires conducting working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people (0 - 18 years) or adults at risk. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for abusing children or adults at risk.
PARISH FINANCIAL SUPPORTYour support is needed to help our Parish continue valuable pastoral activities and ensure ongoing sustainability. You can give here to assist you in supporting the Parish. 
If you can continue to support us, we would be most grateful. We thank all those who have been making payments via credit card and those who have donated directly to the parish account. The pay-wave or tap-and-go machines on the timber stands in our Churches are also a safe and handy way to donate to the Parish. God bless you for your support. If you want confirmation of your donation or a receipt emailed, please contact me at man.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au. To join planned giving, please contact the Parish Office: (07) 56717388 (9 am–2 pm Mon-Fri). PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION AT THE PARISH OFFICE |
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
NOVEMBER 18 - m - The Dedication of the Basilicas of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Rome, Apostles
Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, built in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and Saint Paul's Basilica, built in the nineteenth century, both replaced older buildings erected by Constantine in the fourth century over the tombs of the apostles Peter and Paul. The dedications of these churches have been commemorated together on this day since the twelfth century. As on 29 June, the universal Church joins the Church of Rome in honouring its apostles.
The Presentation of The Blessed Virgin Mary
21 November. Memorial.
This memorial originally marked the dedication of a sixth-century church of the Virgin Mary near the Temple of Jerusalem. The East took it up as a celebration of Mary's presentation to God in the Temple at the age of three, a non-biblical story from the apocryphal gospel of James. Established in the West late in the Middle Ages, the feast was universally observed by the sixteenth century. It celebrates Mary in her grace-filled life, wholly given over to the Holy Spirit from the time of her conception.
St Cecilia:
“Death and hell combine to distract man with a thousand useless cares, and to engage his thoughts with a multitude of imaginary wants.”-St. Cecilia
“We pray you to please help us as His fair praise we sing! We lift our hearts in joyous song to honour Him this way.”-St. Cecilia
St Columban (543-615)
“We, indeed, are, as I have said, chained to the Chair of Saint Peter.”
“Be gentle to the weak, firm to the stubborn, steadfast to the proud, humble to the lowly.”
“Be helpful, when you are, at the bottom of the ladder and be the lowest, when you are in authority.”
“Be slow to anger, swift to learn, slow also to speak, as St James says, equally swift to hear.” “Be respectful to the worthy, merciful to the poor.” “Be mindful of favours, unmindful of wrongs.”
St Clement
Follow the saints, because those who follow them will become saints.
This world and the world to come are two enemies. We cannot, therefore, be friends to both; but we must decide which we will forsake and which we will enjoy.
We should let God be the One to praise us and not praise ourselves. For God detests those who commend themselves. Let others applaud our good deeds.
Charity unites us to God... There is nothing mean in charity, nothing arrogant. Charity knows no schism, does not rebel, does all things in concord. In charity, all the elect of God have been made perfect.
Who can describe the bond of God's love? Who is able to explain the majesty of its beauty? The height to which love leads is indescribable. ... In love the master received us, Jesus Christ our Lord, in accordance with God's will gave his blood for us, and his flesh for our flesh, and his life for our lives.
Filthy talk makes us feel comfortable with filthy action. But the one who knows how to control the tongue is prepared to resist the attacks of lust
... faithfully and strenuously you should resist the heretics in defence of the only true and life-giving faith, which the Church has received - the apostles and imparted to her sons. For the Lord of all gave to His apostles the power of the Gospel, through whom also we have known the truth, that is, the doctrine of the Son of God: to whom also did the Lord declare: 'He who hears you, hears Me; and he who despises you, despises Me, and Him who sent Me' (Lk. 10:16).
THE POPE
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1609497850 - Pope's Mass -Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor- Brickinfo Media
Pope article:
ENCYCLICAL LETTER
DILEXIT NOS
OF THE HOLY FATHER
FRANCIS
ON THE HUMAN AND DIVINE LOVE
OF THE HEART OF JESUS CHRIST
1. HE LOVED US”, Saint Paul says of Christ (cf.Rom8:37), in order to make us realize that nothing can ever “separate us” from that love (Rom8:39).Paul could say this with certainty because Jesus himself had told his disciples, “I have loved you” (Jn15:9, 12).Even now, the Lord says to us, “I have called you friends” (Jn15:15).His open heart has gone before us and waits for us, unconditionally, asking only to offer us his love and friendship.For “he loved us first” (cf.1 Jn4:10).Because of Jesus, “we have come to know and believe in the love that God has for us” (1 Jn4:16).
CHAPTER ONE
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HEART
2. The symbol of the heart has often been used to express the love of Jesus Christ.Some have questioned whether this symbol is still meaningful today.Yet living as we do in an age of superficiality, rushing frenetically from one thing to another without really knowing why, and ending up as insatiable consumers and slaves to the mechanisms of a market unconcerned about the deeper meaning of our lives, all of us need to rediscover the importance of the heart.[1]
WHAT DO WE MEAN BY “THE HEART”?
3. In classical Greek, the wordkardÃadenotes the inmost part of human beings, animals and plants.For Homer, it indicates not only the centre of the body, but also the human soul and spirit.In the Iliad, thoughts and feelings proceed from the heart and are closely bound one to another.[2]The heart appears as the locus of desire and the place where important decisions take shape.[3]In Plato, the heart serves, as it were, to unite the rational and instinctive aspects of the person, since the impulses of both the higher faculties and the passions were thought to pass through the veins that converge in the heart.[4]From ancient times, then, there has been an appreciation of the fact that human beings are not simply a sum of different skills, but a unity of body and soul with a coordinating centre that provides a backdrop of meaning and direction to all that a person experiences.
4. The Bible tells us that, “the Word of God is living and active... it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb4:12).In this way, it speaks to us of the heart as a core that lies hidden bene ath all outward appearances, even beneath the superficial thoughts that can lead us astray.The disciples of Emmaus, on their mysterious journey in the company of the risen Christ, experienced a moment of anguish, confusion, despair and disappointment.Yet, beyond and in spite of this, something was happening deep within them: “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road?” (Lk 24:32).
5. The heart is also the locus of sincerity, where deceit and disguise have no place.It usually indicates our true intentions, what we really think, believe and desire, the “secrets” that we tell no one: in a word, the naked truth about ourselves.It is the part of us that is neither appearance or illusion, but is instead authentic, real, entirely “who we are”.That is why Samson, who kept from Delilah the secret of his strength, was asked by her, “How can you say, ‘I love you’, when your heart is not with me?” (Judg16:15).Only when Samson opened his heart to her, did she realize “that he had told her his whole secret” (Judg16:18).
6. This interior reality of each person is frequently concealed behind a great deal of “foliage”, which makes it difficult for us not only to understand ourselves, but even more to know others: “The heart is devious above all else; it is perverse, who can understand it?” (Jer17:9).We can understand, then, the advice of the Book of Proverbs: “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life; put away from you crooked speech” (4:23-24).Mere appearances, dishonesty and deception harm and pervert the heart.Despite our every attempt to appear as something we are not, our heart is the ultimate judge, not of what we show or hide from others, but of who we truly are.It is the basis for any sound life project; nothing worthwhile can be undertaken apart from the heart.False appearances and untruths ultimately leave us empty-handed.
7. As an illustration of this, I would repeat a story I have already told on another occasion.“For the carnival, when we were children, my grandmother would make a pastry using a very thin batter.When she dropped the strips of batter into the oil, they would expand, but then, when we bit into them, they were empty inside.In the dialect we spoke, those cookies were called ‘lies’…My grandmother explained why: ‘Like lies, they look big, but are empty inside; they are false, unreal’”.[5]
8. Instead of running after superficial satisfactions and playing a role for the benefit of others, we would do better to think about the really important questions in life.Who am I, really?What am I looking for?What direction do I want to give to my life, my decisions and my actions?Why and for what purpose am I in this world?How do I want to look back on my life once it ends?What meaning do I want to give to all my experiences?Who do I want to be for others?Who am I for God?All these questions lead us back to the heart.
RETURNING TO THE HEART
9. In this “liquid” world of ours, we need to start speaking once more about the heart and thinking about this place where every person, of every class and condition, creates a synthesis, where they encounter the radical source of their strengths, convictions, passions and decisions.Yet, we find ourselves immersed in societies of serial consumers who live from day to day, dominated by the hectic pace and bombarded by technology, lacking in the patience needed to engage in the processes that an interior life by its very nature requires.In contemporary society, people “risk losing their centre, the centre of their very selves”.[6]“Indeed, the men and women of our time often find themselves confused and torn apart, almost bereft of an inner principle that can create unity and harmony in their lives and actions.Models of behaviour that, sadly, are now widespread exaggerate our rational-technological dimension or, on the contrary, that of our instincts”.[7]No room is left for the heart.
10. The issues raised by today’s liquid society are much discussed, but this depreciation of the deep core of our humanity – the heart – has a much longer history.We find it already present in Hellenic and pre-Christian rationalism, in post-Christian idealism and in materialism in its various guises.The heart has been ignored in anthropology, and the great philosophical tradition finds it a foreign notion, preferring other concepts such as reason, will or freedom.The very meaning of the term is imprecise and hard to situate within our human experience.Perhaps this is due to the difficulty of treating it as a “clear and distinct idea”, or because it entails the question of self-understanding, where the deepest part of us is also that which is least known.Even encountering others does not necessarily prove to be a way of encountering ourselves, inasmuch as our thought patterns are dominated by an unhealthy individualism.Many people feel safer constructing their systems of thought in the more readily controllable domain of intelligence and will.The failure to make room for the heart, as distinct from our human powers and passions viewed in isolation from one another, has resulted in a stunting of the idea of a personal centre, in which love, in the end, is the one reality that can unify all the others.
11. If we devalue the heart, we also devalue what it means to speak from the heart, to act with the heart, to cultivate and heal the heart.If we fail to appreciate the specificity of the heart, we miss the messages that the mind alone cannot communicate; we miss out on the richness of our encounters with others; we miss out on poetry.We also lose track of history and our own past, since our real personal history is built with the heart.At the end of our lives, that alone will matter.
12. It must be said, then, that we have a heart, a heart that coexists with other hearts that help to make it a “Thou”.Since we cannot develop this theme at length, we will take a character from one of Dostoevsky’s novels, Nikolai Stavrogin.[8]Romano Guardini argues that Stavrogin is the very embodiment of evil, because his chief trait is his heartlessness: “Stavrogin has no heart, hence his mind is cold and empty and his body sunken in bestial sloth and sensuality.He has no heart, hence he can draw close to no one and no one can ever truly draw close to him.For only the heart creates intimacy, true closeness between two persons.Only the heart is able to welcome and offer hospitality.Intimacy is the proper activity and the domain of the heart.Stavrogin is always infinitely distant, even from himself, because a man can enter into himself only with the heart, not with the mind.It is not in a man’s power to enter into his own interiority with the mind.Hence, if the heart is not alive, man remains a stranger to himself”.[9]
13. All our actions need to be put under the “political rule” of the heart.In this way, our aggressiveness and obsessive desires will find rest in the greater good that the heart proposes and in the power of the heart to resist evil.The mind and the will are put at the service of the greater good by sensing and savouring truths, rather than seeking to master them as the sciences tend to do.The will desires the greater good that the heart recognizes, while the imagination and emotions are themselves guided by the beating of the heart.
14. It could be said, then, that I am my heart, for my heart is what sets me apart, shapes my spiritual identity and puts me in communion with other people.The algorithms operating in the digital world show that our thoughts and will are much more “uniform” than we had previously thought.They are easily predictable and thus capable of being manipulated.That is not the case with the heart.
15. The word “heart” proves its value for philosophy and theology in their efforts to reach an integral synthesis.Nor can its meaning be exhausted by biology, psychology, anthropology or any other science.It is one of those primordial words that “describe realities belonging to man precisely in so far as he is one whole (as a corporeo-spiritual person)”.[10]It follows that biologists are not being more “realistic” when they discuss the heart, since they see only one aspect of it; the whole is not less real, but even more real.Nor can abstract language ever acquire the same concrete and integrative meaning.The word “heart” evokes the inmost core of our person, and thus it enables us to understand ourselves in our integrity and not merely under one isolated aspect.
16. This unique power of the heart also helps us to understand why, when we grasp a reality with our heart, we know it better and more fully.This inevitably leads us to the love of which the heart is capable, for “the inmost core of reality is love”.[11]For Heidegger, as interpreted by one contemporary thinker, philosophy does not begin with a simple concept or certainty, but with a shock: “Thought must be provoked before it begins to work with concepts or while it works with them.Without deep emotion, thought cannot begin.The first mental image would thus be goose bumps.What first stirs one to think and question is deep emotion.Philosophy always takes place in a basic mood (Stimmung)”.[12]That is where the heart comes in, since it “houses the states of mind and functions as a ‘keeper of the state of mind’.The ‘heart’ listens in a non-metaphoric way to ‘the silent voice’ of being, allowing itself to be tempered and determined by it”.[13]
Readings for next weekend- Sunday, 24 November 2024. (Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Year B) FIRST READING- Daniel 7:13-14 Psalm 93:1a, 1b-2, 5 – “The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.” SECOND READING- 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 4:18cd) “Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed is he who inherits the Kingdom of David our father. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” GOSPEL- Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21 |
Commitment to Child Safety and Adults at Risk. We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community. Please see the pages below for more information. ………………..
Acknowledgement of Country -
This is Kombumerri Country, the traditional custodian of this region.
We respectfully acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First People of this country. We pay our respects to the Kombumerri people, the traditional custodians of the land, waterways and seas upon which we live, work and socialise throughout this Catholic Parish of Surfers Paradise. We acknowledge Elders, past and present and emerging, as they hold our Indigenous people's memories, traditions, culture and hopes. We pay tribute to those who have contributed to the community's life in many ways. We affirm our commitment to justice, healing, and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. (See further: The Kombumerri People and https://kombumerritogetherproject.com/digital-resources/yugambeh-language/)
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** The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 24”
An ancient medieval practice that developed in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk at the yearly epiphany. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
This means that 2000 years ago, after Christ’s birth, Wise Men visited and gave homage to the Lord and were welcomed into the hospitality of the Holy Family’s abode. We dedicate the present year of this century, ‘24, to the protection of the Lord. May the Lord bless this abode.
The letters C+M+B represent Caspar, Bathasar and Melchior, the three Wise Men. CMB is also the initials of the Latin phrase “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling place.”
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ST VINCENTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL - PROUD AND TRUE DIRECTORY
Dear St Vincent’s Parents and Caregivers,
Get Onboard!
After fantastic responses over the last few years, we are preparing for the St Vincent's Primary Proud & True Business Directory 2025 Edition.
If you have a small business, work for a small business, are a tradie and thinking about your marketing plans for the 2024/2025 Financial Year, you may like to take up a special offer to advertise to our broader school community in our St Vincent’s business directory.
Whether it’s as a landscaper, accountant, solicitor, plumber, electrician, coffee shop owner… just to name a few – this could be for you.
In Australia 86% of people rely on word-of-mouth recommendations! This is all our community businesses packaged into a one stop word of mouth shop.
Our parents and members of our broader school community want to support each other and ensure we are spending our money locally and helping businesses continue to operate and grow. The Proud & True Business Directory will be distributed widely to all staff and families at St Vincent’s.
If you would like to advertise your business in this directory, please contact Ben Ryan on 0432545995 or email ben@advcollab.com.au
St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
Safeguarding Framework “The Church loves all her children like a loving mother, but cares for all and protects with a special affection those who are smallest and defenceless. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community.” – Apostolic Letter issued ‘motu proprio’ by the Supreme Pontiff Francis 4 June 2016
Purpose The purpose of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework is to promote a culture of safeguarding within the Archdiocese and reduce the risks of abuse and harm. Scope The Safeguarding Framework applies to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Brisbane.
The framework applies to all Archdiocesan workers. Framework National Catholic Safeguarding Standards The Archdiocese adopts and adheres to the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards. The Standards apply to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop. Commitment Statement The Archdiocese has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and is committed to safeguarding everyone involved in its activities, ministries, and services.
The safety and well-being of children and adults-at-risk is paramount. Safeguarding Principles The following principles guide safeguarding practice in the Archdiocese: Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Everyone who interacts with the Archdiocese is treated with dignity and respect. The protection and best interests of children and adults at risk are prioritised. Safe physical and online environments are provided. Safeguarding and abuse risks are actively identified and managed. Compliance with safeguarding standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines is monitored. Abuse concerns, suspicions, disclosures, allegations, reports and incidents are responded to promptly and effectively. All statutory obligations to report suspected abuse or harm are complied with. Safeguarding Governance -Monitoring and Compliance The Archdiocese of Brisbane is committed to continuous improvement of its safeguarding practice, and compliance with the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards is monitored through a program of internal and external auditing. Non-compliance with this framework, which seriously jeopardises the safety and wellbeing of others, will be reported to the Vicar General and may be grounds for disciplinary action resulting in dismissal or termination of employment and reporting to church and/or statutory authorities. Download a copy of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework For more information about the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework, contact the Office for Safeguarding Services at safeguarding@bne.catholic.net.au or on 07 3324 3752. https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/ - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility - See also this video on safeguarding - https://youtu.be/8AASkl-Sr1A?si=OF6XwqzagYt5fF9d Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility - https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/ Safeguarding Officer (relating to child safety and adults at risk) Robyn Hunt Safeguarding officer - contact lsr.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au Safeguarding (Children and adults-at-risk)- StopLine - The Archdiocese of Brisbane Whistleblower Hotline 1300 30 45 50 |
Each Parish in the Archdiocese of Brisbane has a Local Safeguarding Representative who is responsible for:
Making sure that the whole parish is aware of the importance of safeguarding children and adults at risk.
Promoting safe practices, including articulating for others what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, and
Assisting the Parish Priest and staff in the implementation of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Children and Adults-at-risk Policy in the Parish
The Archdiocesan Safeguarding Children & Adults-at-risk Prevention & Protection Policy can be found at: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/support/safeguard
WAYS TO REPORT A SAFEGUARDING INCIDENT OR CONCERN OR TO GIVE FEEDBACK REGARDING SAFEGUARDING
Here is how you can report an incident or concern, or contact someone to talk about a safeguarding matter or get more information:
VOLUNTEERS - Parish Ministries, Groups etc.
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has implemented standards of conduct for voluntary church workers to maintain a safe and healthy ministry environment. Our commitment to these standards requires that we have a record of your Blue Card and conduct background referencing for all who intend to engage in voluntary ministry, having direct and regular involvement with children, young people and adults at risk.
SAFEGUARDING TRAINING
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has the following safeguarding training packages, Safeguarding Induction, Applied Safeguarding Training and Training for Local Safeguarding Representatives, which can be viewed here: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/safeguarding-training
BLUE CARD - ‘No Card, No Start’
Individuals must have a valid blue card before starting paid work or volunteering. All cardholders must apply to renew their blue card before it expires to continue working/volunteering. If an individual lets their card expire, they must cease work until they obtain a new valid blue card. For further information about the Blue Card Application process, please click here >>
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