PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:42)
It was a wonderful success. This financial appeal is critical for our parish Vinnies conference to assist those most in need urgently.
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
Best regards, SVDP Surfers Paradise ConferenceIt was a wonderful success. This financial appeal is critical for our parish Vinnies conference to assist those most in need urgently.
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
Best regards, SVDP Surfers Paradise Conference
CHRISTMAS MASSES IN THIS PARISH -
CHRISTMAS EVE TUESDAY 24TH DECEMBER 2024
STELLA MARIS CHURCH, BROADBEACH -
254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, QLD 4218
Christmas Eve: 5.00 PM VIGIL MASS. Fr Warren
ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE
40 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Christmas Eve: 5.00 PM VIGIL MASS. (SPECIAL CHRISTMAS MASS TIME ONLY) - Fr Paul
SACRED HEART CHURCH, CLEAR ISLAND WATERS
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, QLD 4226
Christmas Eve (vigil): 5.00 PM=FAMILY MASS with Children’s Nativity Play- Fr Anthony .
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8:00 PM SPECIAL MASS (Christmas Eve only).- Fr Paul
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CHRISTMAS DAY - WEDNESDAY 25TH DECEMBER 2024.
SACRED HEART CHURCH, CLEAR ISLAND WATERS
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, QLD 4226
Christmas Day:
9.00 AM - Fr Anthony
(No evening mass at SH)
ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE
40 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
Christmas Day: 8.00 AM & 10.00 AM - Fr Paul
Hispanic Mass 5:30 PM
STELLA MARIS CHURCH, BROADBEACH
254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, QLD 4218
Stella Maris. 254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, 4218
Christmas Day: 7.00 AM - Fr Bernie Gallagher
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PASTOR’S POST -
PASTOR’S POST ARTICLE
MAY YOU HAVE A HAPPY AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS!
This Christmas, let us remember that God chose a humble stable and marginalised shepherds to reveal His profound love, reminding us that grace thrives in our messiness. It’s a call to action: embrace Christ in our hearts and be the light of love and compassion in a broken world.
**the entrance into this world of God, as a vulnerable and needy baby is a profound statement to us…. God became one of us… God is all-powerful… he could have come to the world any way he wanted….. In glory… in might… in majesty…. But no…. He came humbly … as one of us… sharing our condition completely…. And as a vulnerable baby….
This baby Jesus shows us and invites us to enter into the truth of real unconditional love…..
**(1)(an insight into what babies teach us about true love, comes from British philosopher Alain de Botton who writes insightfully……. “Children teach us that love is, in its purest form, a kind of service. The word has grown freighted with negative
connotations. An individualistic, self-gratifying culture cannot easily equate contentment with being at someone else's call
We are used to loving others in return for what they can do for us, for their capacity to entertain, charm, or soothe us. Yet babies do precisely nothing. There is, as slightly older children sometimes conclude with serious discomfit, no point to them, AND that is precisely their point!
They teach us to give without expecting anything in return, simply because (they completely need our help, care and love to survive) - and we are in a position to provide that love and care.
We are inducted into a love based not on admiration for strength but on surprising compassion for weakness, a vulnerability common to every member of the species and on which has been and will eventually be, our own. Because it is always tempting to overemphasise autonomy and independence, these helpless creatures remind us that no one is, in the end, 'self-made’: we are all heavily in someone's debt. We realise that life depends, quite literally, on our capacity for love - (to give it, and to receive it graciously!).
We learn, too, that being another's servant is not humiliating - quite the opposite. It sets us free from the wearying responsibility of continuously catering to our (self-focused desires). We learn the relief and privilege of being granted something more important to live for than merely for ourselves. (p.110}
The child teaches the adult something else about love; that genuine love should· involve a constant attempt to interpret with maximum generosity what might be going on, at any time, beneath the surface of difficult and unappealing behaviour.
The parent has to constantly second-guess what the cry, the kick, the grief, or the anger is really about in a small child. And what marks out this project of interpretation - and makes it so different from what occurs in the average adult relationship - is its charity. Parents are apt to proceed from the assumption that their children, though they may be troubled or in pain, are fundamentally good. Once the pin jabbing them is correctly identified, they will be restored to native innocence. When children cry, we don't accuse them of being mean or self-pitying; we wonder what has upset them. When they scream out, we know they must be frightened or uncomfortable. We are alive to the endless effects that hunger, a tricky digestive tract, or a lack of sleep may have on mood.
Parents learn another thing about love: how much power we have over people who depend on us and, therefore, what responsibilities we have to tread carefully around those who have been placed at our mercy. We learn of an unexpected capacity to hurt without meaning to - to frighten through unpredictability, anxiety or momentary irritation. We must train ourselves to be as others need us to be rather than as our own first reflexes might dictate.
How kind we would be if we managed to import even a little of this instinct into adult relationships - if here, too, we could look past the grumpiness and the arbitrariness in adult life and recognise the fear, confusion, and exhaustion, hurt and so on, which almost invariably underlie them. This is what it would mean to gaze upon the human race with love
{ Alain de Botton. “The Course of Love -By: ISBN: 9781501134517 - Penguin Books: 20th June 2017. P112-113}
{This is what Our Lord did! - on that first Christmas eve… { and every day after that…….}. And it changed and saved the world!}
Fr Paul Kelly
Image - The Holy Family in Bethlehem - Nativity- Icon - in silver and gold, and paint.
We are having a Christmas - New Year break.
The Parish Office will close on
Tuesday 24th December and reopen Monday 6th January.
In cases of emergency
please phone the Parish Office
telephone number (07) 56 717388 and follow the prompts.
Fr Paul Kelly
To tune in to The Advent and Christmas Mass on audio Podcast, please visit regularly the following link:
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
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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 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.
NEW STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT SACRED HEART CHURCH
On the 19th of December parishioners has a beautiful surprise when they came to Mass at 9am. A new and beautiful set of Stations of the Cross have been installed for prayer and meditation. The Fourteen Stations are illuminated from light behind the image and they are really beautiful and emotional meditations on Our Lord’s saving journey to Calvary, for the salvation of the world. Thanks to Luke Feo for the installation of these stunning additions to the church’s prayer experience. The old stations, made of cloth will be combined to create a beautiful tapestry for a suitable place. God bless.
ENCOUNTER KIDS SUMMER HOLIDAY PROGRAM For children from Surfers Paradise Parish and children visiting Surfers Paradise in January 2025 - The Encounter Kids Summer Holiday Program is a 1 day event for primary school aged children (Prep - Grade 6) across 5 locations across the Archdiocese of Brisbane. With the theme Eyes of the Prize these days are filled with fun, games, activities and engaging messages and prayers designed to give children a positive and powerful experience of the Catholic faith. Find more information at encountercatholickids.com.au/summer-holiday-program
Nearest venue to Surfers Paradise is the Coomera venue - St Mary’s Catholic Parish, 185 Billinghurst Crescent, Upper Coomera.
9:00am - 3:00pm (Supervision 8:30 - 5:00pm)
Your free copy of Liturgy News - a Catholic Liturgy magazine from Brisbane, is now available for you to download here - https://www.liturgybrisbane.net.au/media/wtmpukzo/ln244-liturgy-news-december-summer-2024.pdf
Happy Christmas reading!
Vanuatu Earthquake Appeal
Vanuatu has experienced two earthquakes within 24 hours impacting over 116,000 people and causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The main hospital in Port Vila has sustained extensive damage and is overwhelmed by the mass causalities.
There are hundreds of people have been injured or trapped under rubble and at least 14 people deceased with the death toll expected to continue to rise. People remain fearful of further disaster, as Vanuatu is one of the most susceptible countries to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding, and tsunamis.
This appeal will provide support to our on the ground partners who are ready to respond to the humanitarian requirements by providing emergency shelter, food and other essentials, psychosocial support, and recovery efforts.
Please Donate today: http://www.caritas.org.au/vanuatu
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Rest in Peace, S.A. Francis Xavier (beloved Father of parishioner Louis Prabhi Xavier).
Rest In Peace - Joy Louise L’Huillier (14th April 1930 - 13th December 2024)
Joy’s Funeral Mass was held at Sacred Heart Thursday 19th December 2024.
God bless and keep her in His care forever.
Lay volunteers providing pastoral care to the sick in hospitals
are invaluable as part of holistic patient care. The foundation for this ministry lies in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Centacare provides accredited training for compassionate men and women who would like to explore if this ministry is where God is calling them to practical Christian action in their lives. The next training course will start in February 2025. To express your interest or to find out more about the course and the volunteer role please email judy.norris@bne.centacare.net.au or phone 3324 3193
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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.
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, 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.
{https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en/pellegrinaggio/calendario-giubileo.html}
A HAPPY AND SAFE CHRISTMAS!
Shutterstock Licensed Image: Stock Vector ID: 1552511834 -
People celebrating Christmas in summer partying on the beach and exchanging gifts - Vector Contributor: elenabsl
Jubilee 2025
Vatican issues clarification on Holy Doors during 2025 Jubilee:
The Vatican's Dicastery for Evangelization issues a clarifying note regarding the 2025 Jubilee, specifying that Holy Doors will only be open at the four Papal Basilicas in Rome and in one prison.
The opening dates for the Holy Doors during the 2025 Jubilee are:
St. Peter's Basilica: Opens on December 24, 2024 at 7 PM
Pope Francis will open a special Holy Door in Rome's Rebibbia prison on Dec. 26, the feast day of St. Stephen.
San Giovanni in Laterano: Opens on December 29, 2024
Santa Maria Maggiore: Opens on January 1, 2025
St Paul Outside the Walls: Opens on January 5, 2025
Fr Dan Ryan’s PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY IN THE 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
2025 - Holy Year Pilgrimage In Italy
Would 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 2025. 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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MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
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, 3/1/2025, 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 4/1/2025. Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
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, John Fox, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Mary Hirst, Andrew Janiec, Jenny Johnson, Kevin & Francis Junee, Sr Elisabeth Keane, Leona Kelly, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Dannielle Therese Larney, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, Ron McConnell,
l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Angela Micallef, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Frances Much, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Carmela Parente, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Karsten Rickert, Bob Rogers, Maureen Scott, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Daniel Ramos (USA), Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier, Eileen Edmonds, Waltraud Barbara Nagy, Barry Collins, Pauline Gates, Paul Douglas, Clare D'Arcy, Simon Cruickshank, Antonio Risotto, Angela D’Rozario, Brendan James Hill, Jill Margaret Gill, Vincent Comito, Baby Mila Annie Long, Isobel Mary Corvesor, Fred Downham, Patricia Sulzberger, Marie Dodsworth, Christine Jones, Peter Norris.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Dell Emma Bloomfield, Joan Sadie Brown, John-Paul Camilleri, Fr Vincent Carroll, Carmen de Celis, Joseph (Joe) Che, Mr Vivian David (Viv) Cogar, Mons Daniel Cremin, Fr Patrick Doyle, Caridad Duazo, Teresa Duffy , Dorothy “Dolly” Dyer, Johan (John) Egner, Percy Felsman, Maureen Fitzgerald, Paul Thomas Grennan, Herta Haselhorst, Fr Francis Hefferan, Sue Hewitt, Marian Howell, Trevor Jones, Ferdinand Paul (Paul) Kiely, Neil Davey Lawrence, Betty Lloyd, Bill Magno, John Brian McCabe, Patricia Nolan, Jack O'Brien, Fr Thomas O'Callaghan, Fr Daniel O'Hare, Fr Denis Power, Robert Henry Rathborne, Mons Cornelius Roberts, Imelda Mary Rundell, Mary Ann “Annie” Scicluna, Maria Sidic, Ernest Vincent (Vin) Smith, Stephen “Taity” Tait, Robert John (Bob) Thorburn, Penny Natalie Woodman
And Also: (Alphabetical):. Fr James Bolton, Margaret Borg, Ada Teresa Bradshaw, Joe Bugeja, Melita Bugeja, Fr William Cashman, Noel (Max) Patrick Christmas, Maria Consiglio, Tessie Craig, Barry Charles Day, Fr John Dobson, Josephine Elizabeth (Josie) Dowd, Konrad Zbigniew Dziurdziak, Elda Ferluga, William Fouad Gazal, Pat Foster, Denis Graham, Most Rev Joseph Angelo Grech, Fr Peter Grice, Murray James Hill, Fr Ron Illidge, Maureen Jobling, Stanley (Stan) Kassulke, Walter de Launey, Patricia Lazaro, Mary Jean Lenthall, ITaufau Ah Lo, Frankie Anne Mackedie, Anthony Malouf, John Peter Bartolomeo Mandile, Vera McCormick, Emidia Micallef, Gary John Moore, William Patrick, Henry Martin Prince, Henry Restall, Arthur 'John' Robinson, Abina Jean (Jean) Saalmann, Alfred Ernest (Alf) Symonds, Sybil Vos, Maria Vos, Fr Vincent Wheeler, Charlie Restall White, Grazyna Zyner.
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
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Columban calendars $10
Scroll calendars - Our Lady of Lourdes, Serenity Prayer and Holy Family $10
2025 “God’s Word” includes readings for every day of the year along with a reflection for the day. Excellent value at only $20 per copy, only a few copies left, secure yours this weekend.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Stations of the Cross, Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at 8:00a.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, 3/01/25, 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, 4/01/25. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP (Last session will be on 18th December - Resumes 29th
January 2025)
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- (Last session will be on 9th December - Resumes on 13th January)
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 - (Last session will be on 10th December - Resumes 14th January 2025)
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:
23/12/24 Merla & Rodney Nario 30/12/24 Merla & Rodney Nario
6/01/25 Maxine & Patrick Sela
13/01/25 Maxine & Patrick Sela
20/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
27/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
We are having a Christmas - New Year break.
The Parish Office will close on
Tuesday 24th December and reopen Monday 6th January.
In cases of emergency
please phone the Parish Office
telephone number (07) 56 717388 and follow the prompts.
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH - (Last session 10th December 2024 - Resumes 21st January 2025)
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. - (Last meeting will be on 18 December 2024 - Resumes 8th January 2025)
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 - Resumes 21st January 2025)
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
Vatican International Photography Contest
In the context of the Jubilee of Sport for the year 2025, the Dicastery for Culture and Education (Vatican) is promoting an international photography contest under the title:
'Sport in Motion'.
The contest includes five categories of photography:
- Sport and Hope (sport as a message of hope to society)
- Sport and Family (sport as a moment of family life)
- Sport and Disability (sport as a platform for inclusion
- Sport and Politics (sport as a resources accessible to all
- Sport and Ecology (the relationship of sport with the elements of nature)
The deadline for entries is 30 April 2025, and the winners will be announced at the
Jubilee of Sport (14-15 June, 2025).
The winners will be awarded a meeting with the Holy Father, a visit to the Vatican
Museums, a workshop in the Osservatore Romany newspaper and the international dissemination of the photos in the Holy See's media.
To enter, send your submissions to sportinmotion@dce.va . Further information about the contest can be found on the Dicastery's website via this link:
https://www.dce.va/it/news/2024/concorso-di-fotografia.html
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 19 January 2025.
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.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Mary trusted that the Lord’s words to her would be fulfilled. Step out in faith and God will be there to guide you. (Luke 1:39-45)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy.” (Luke 1:44)
When you hear the scripture readings and Gospel reading at Mass, do you “leap for joy?” If not, don’t blame the lecturer or priest, rather look inside yourself. What are you doing to grow in friendship with Jesus? How do you prepare for Mass each week? Do you just show up and expect to be entertained? As the Body of Christ, we are called to be active participants, not just passive observers.
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 -
In an affluent society, the sin rarely referred to is avarice. We redefine it as ambition, upward mobility, --------------------------------------
WORD OF THE WEEK
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Crèche \'kresh \
French for “crib”; popular name for the Nativity scene displayed in the Christmas season, typically with sculptural figures of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the manger, shepherds, Magi, and farm animals. This tradition began with Saint Francis of Assisi, who celebrated Christmas in a barn with animals, as Jesus did.
CONTEXT
Why does the Christmas crèche arouse such wonder and move us so deeply? First, because it shows God's tender love: the Creator of the universe lowered himself to take up our littleness. —Pope Francis
In the crèche, recognizable local characters peddle their wares, tend to livestock, and celebrate in the local tavern while angels fly overhead. —Elizabeth Dudgeon, Art Institute of Chicago
WHY IT MATTERS
Saint Francis viewed a barn with animals as the perfect site for Mass at Christmas. His original crèche didn't include Mary and Joseph. For him, the ox and ass of Isaiah's prophecy were far more instructive: "An ox knows its owner, and an ass, its master's manger; but Israel does not know, my people has not understood" (Isaiah 1:3). This messy manger prompts us to wonder whether we know who possesses us.
From Days of the Lord, Volume 1: “For the veneration of the faithful, [the Church of St. Mary Major] erected a manger out of five pieces of wood, thus making a connection between the wood of the crèche and wood of the cross. [And] Bethlehem and the manager were very soon related to the altar of the Eucharist.”
RELATED WORDS
Manger | Nativity | Homage | Devotion
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QUESTION OF THE WEEK
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Why don't all Christians celebrate Christmas on the same day?
The ancients told time in terms of rainfall. Dating also concerned the succession of the great sky clocks, sun and moon. Seasons were established according to the heavenly orbs and pattern rulers. Matthew tells us of a star announcing a new king's arrival, during the present reign of King Herod. Luke acknowledges Caesar Tiberias, Pontius Pilate, and high priests Annas and Caiaphas. Details we prefer—day of the week, date of the month, the month itself—aren't recorded. In addition, news traveled slowly in the ancient world. The winter solstice was already a significant observance and suited a celebration of the Light of the World. Jerusalem chose January 6 for the celebration of this Theophany, or Divine Manifestation. Western Christians called this same manifestation Epiphany, observing it in late December. In time, both traditions mingled to create a unified liturgical chain between Nativity and Epiphany.
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask
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REFLECTION OF THE WEEK
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SOLEMNITY OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD, CHRISTMAS (DECEMBER 25)
Warm reception
Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first Christmas crèche. What Francis did at midnight Mass in the tiny town of Grecio was assemble a few farm animals around an empty, straw-lined manger to feel the poverty and coldness of the world into which Love was born. Legend has it that in a vision Francis saw an infant in the hay who seemed lifeless until, moved with pity, Francis embraced the baby who then stirred, flush with life.
Readings: Isaiah 52:7-10; Hebrews 1:1-6; John 1:1-18 or 1:1-5, 9-14 (16: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122524-Day.cfm). “This life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness.”
FAITH IN ACTION
Christmas is coming face-to-face with the chill of human fear, pain, and sorrow. It is embracing one another until we, too, are flushed with warmth and hope.
HOMILY: GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/YfADCBmLQxU50eGDo2f5?ru=Paul-Evangelion
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Readings for Sunday, December 22, 2024 - Fourth Sunday of Advent. Year C - (Episode 510)
FIRST READING: Micah 5:2-5a
Psalm 80:1ab+2, 14-15, 17-18. "Lord make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved"
SECOND READING: Hebrews 10:5-10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 1:39-45). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the servant of the Lord. May his will for me be done.
GOSPEL: Luke 1:39-45
Homily: Fourth Sunday Advent. Year C - Sunday, 22 December 2024
*Prologue
"Yes, truly blessed is she who believed that the promise made to her by the Lord would be fulfilled" – And blessed are we, when we hope and trust and believe that the lord will be faithful to us and fulfil the promises he made to us.
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Mary and Elizabeth meet with an unspoken bond, born of their shared condition. They're each expecting a baby. They know they cannot face this alone.
And they also know that God has no intention of letting them face this alone. God is with them, really with them. This yes from these two ladies will need an ongoing commitment.
It will need care, time, and of course, God's sustaining grace. They know they are God's partners in bringing to birth hope and life in a very real way. This beautiful gospel today illustrates the importance of giving thanks and expressly naming our blessings.
I remember hearing a story about a man who would always write down the significant things that happened to him. He had two methods of writing these things that happened to him in his life. He said he would write in the sand, all the list of hurts that he had received.
But he also would carve in stone, all the blessings he received. When he was asked, why do you do this? And why do it differently? He said, I inscribed the hurts and wrongs in sand, so that the winds of forgiveness and love can eventually erase them after a time. But just as importantly, I remember to carve all my blessings and graces in stone, so that time, busyness, or even misfortune or circumstance will be unable to erase those memories.
Carving our blessings in stone. What a wonderful thing!
It serves as a constant reminder to all of us of the things for which we are eternally grateful and ought to remember always.
Why do I suspect that for many of us, including myself, we do things the other way around. We write the countless acts of kindness, love, generosity and grace and blessedness on shifting sands of memories, whilst carving in stone all the hurts and grudges and bad memories and misfortunes and the list of our own and others' sins and weaknesses. And that doesn't do us any good at all.
The Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Elizabeth are wonderful examples of faithful discipleship. They notice the graciousness of God happening all around them and within them. They both delight in praising God and in thanksgiving.
They make a deliberate and vocal decision to name those blessings of God and to give voice to the presence of God. It is truly an inspiring moment, a moment of true and abiding praise and thanksgiving. The other thing that strikes me about this well-known passage today is the importance of family, including extended family, our family of faith, our parish, our friends, our colleagues and the wider community as well.
The Virgin Mother must have been daunted and filled with awe by what she knew was happening to her and what her future would be. Not everyone would understand what God was doing in her life. Not everyone would be happy and certainly not everyone would have goodwill towards her and assume that the Holy Spirit was at work in this extraordinary event.
Mary went to visit Elizabeth. Together they meet in great joy and affection. They gain enormous support from each other.
How very important is the support and encouragement we give to one another in times of joy and also times of trial. This weekend, as Advent comes very quickly to a close, let's take some time to carve a few things in stone. Let's look back.
Who are some of the people we need to give thanks for from this past year and all past years for that matter? Let's recall in our hearts and minds every act of kindness and love that we could possibly think of. So many people have shown us these acts of kindness and love daily and let's remember the people, the many people, through whom we have experienced Christ's graced presence, his love, compassion and mercy, his kindness. Let us remember and give thanks for all these people and all the blessings in our hearts and minds and show this gratitude in our words and in our actions.
And let us take time to be aware that in the very midst of our busy preparations for the celebration of Christ's birth in ancient Bethlehem, Christ is reborn each year and each day in Bethlehem of our homes and our daily lives and in our hearts. Let us take time, slow down, be still, and be awake to the divine mystery that looks so common and so ordinary yet is so wonderfully present. Let's seek out people like Elizabeth and the Blessed Virgin Mary who have grateful, remembering hearts, who focus on the positives and show us the world in all its goodness for us to build our lives upon. People who don't dwell on negatives and who do not get us more and more upset or downcast by focusing on everything that is wrong.
Let's be attentive to the ways in which God is present to us, especially God's abiding presence in action in the people with whom we socialise, work and live.
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly
(A) Alice Camille, 2009: A Book of Grace-filled Days).
https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/YfADCBmLQxU50eGDo2f5?ru=Paul-Evangelion
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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
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.
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
Saint John of Kanty
"Fight all error but do it with good humour, patience, kindness and love. Harshness will damage your own soul and spoil the best cause."
"What kind of work can be nobler than to cultivate the minds of young people, guarding it carefully, so that the knowledge and love of God and His holy precepts go hand-in-hand with learning? To form young Christians and citizens-isn't this the most beautiful and noble-minded way to make use of life, of all one's talents and energy?"
"Going hand-in-hand with that true brand of humility one saw in him a great childlike humility. There was nothing deceitful or ambiguous in his actions and words. Whatever was in his heart he unhesitantly and honestly revealed. If he thought that his words, even when speaking the truth, could accidentally offend someone, he humbly asked for forgiveness before approaching the altar." Pope Clement X (In the Bull of Canonisation of St John of Kanty on 16 July 1767)
St Stephen. The First Martyr
Died in Jerusalem at about 35. The feast of Stephen has been celebrated on this day since the fourth century. A Greek-speaking Jew, one of seven appointed by the apostles for special service (Diakonia). He died confessing Christ and seeking divine mercy for those stoning him. Named in the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer I). Remembered for preaching with wisdom and the Spirit (Acts 6:10), as one "full of grace and power" who "did great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8).
St John the Apostle
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14
“God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”
“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God”
“Love one another as I have loved you.”
“Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus is with God’s people. Amen. (Revelation 22: 20-21)
Holy Innocents
“These then, whom Herod’s cruelty tore as sucklings from their mother’s bosom, are justly hailed as “infant martyr flowers”; they were the Church’s first blossoms, matured by the frost of persecution during the cold winter of unbelief.” St Augustine.
THE POPE - Continuing serialisation of Pope Francis’ new Encyclical on the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1261504183 - Vatican City, December - Children take Baby Jesus from their Nativity Scene (Tradition Bambinelli) to be blessed by Pope Francis during his Sunday. Angelus prayer in st. Peter's Square - Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor -AM113
Pope article:
CHAPTER THREE
THIS IS THE HEART THAT HAS LOVED SO GREATLY
48. Devotion to the heart of Christ is not the veneration of a single organ apart from the Person of Jesus.What we contemplate and adore is the whole Jesus Christ, the Son of God made man, represented by an image that accentuates his heart.That heart of flesh is seen as the privileged sign of the inmost being of the incarnate Son and his love, both divine and human.More than any other part of his body, the heart of Jesus is “the natural sign and symbol of his boundless love”.[28]
WORSHIPING CHRIST
49. It is essential to realize that our relationship to the Person of Jesus Christ is one of friendship and adoration, drawn by the love represented under the image of his heart.We venerate that image, yet our worship is directed solely to the living Christ, in his divinity and his plenary humanity, so that we may be embraced by his human and divine love.
50. Whatever the image employed, it is clear that the living heart of Christ – not its representation – is the object of our worship, for it is part of his holy risen body, which is inseparable from the Son of God who assumed that body forever.We worship it because it is “the heart of the Person of the Word, to whom it is inseparably united”.[29]Nor do we worship it for its own sake, but because with this heart the incarnate Son is alive, loves us and receives our love in return.Any act of love or worship of his heart is thus “really and truly given to Christ himself”,[30]since it spontaneously refers back to him and is “a symbol and a tender image of the infinite love of Jesus Christ”.[31]
51. For this reason, it should never be imagined that this devotion may distract or separate us from Jesus and his love.In a natural and direct way, it points us to him and to him alone, who calls us to a precious friendship marked by dialogue, affection, trust and adoration.The Christ we see depicted with a pierced and burning heart is the same Christ who, for love of us, was born in Bethlehem, passed through Galilee healing the sick, embracing sinners and showing mercy.The same Christ who loved us to the very end, opening wide his arms on the cross, who then rose from the dead and now lives among us in glory.
Full document found at [https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/20241024-enciclica-dilexit-nos.html]
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
SYNOD 24 - ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE - ACTION PLANS
BASED ON THE PLENARY COUNCIL DECREES
The Action Plans for the 8 Decrees that came out of the National Catholic Plenary Council initially, which we as a Parish participated in very enthusiastically, have now been through the process of SYNOD 24 for the Archdiocese of Brisbane and can be found by clicking on the link below or for those of us who are challenged in this area, we have also repeated below. We look forward to your respectful comments and meaningful discussion as to how we as a Parish go forward. Remembering we cannot do everything but can take one small step at a time. Once again we will call on the Holy Spirit to guide our decision making.
Synod24-Decrees-Document-web.pdf
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 1 - HEALING WOUNDS, RECEIVING GIFTS
The focus here is on the need for a new engagement of the Church with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, beginning with a new kind of listening in the belief that we all can and must learn from the first inhabitants of the land
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That, building on the Archdiocesan Reconciliation Action Plan, the Archdiocese develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander truth-telling, professional learning and formation plan that provides opportunities for all those within parishes, communities and agencies to come to a deeper recognition, appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures and spiritualities
** That the Archdiocese develop and distribute culturally appropriate resources to assist parishes, communities and agencies to include aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, traditions, spiritualities, ritual and symbol in prayers and liturgies
** That the Archdiocese develop culturally specific learning and formation opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 2 - CHOOSING REPENTANCE, SEEKING HEALING The focus here is on addressing sexual abuse in the Church, making amends for failures in the past and working to ensure that the Church is a safe place for all, but especially for the young and the vulnerable
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That in dialogue with survivors, the consequences of physical, sexual and spiritual abuse by Church personnel be addressed within the Archdiocese through truth-telling and story-telling sessions in safe spaces that may give survivors and their family members a voice to be heard and honoured, and support for research and programs related to trauma-informed spiritual care and the long-term impact of spiritual harm
** That a Sunday of the liturgical year be set aside within the Archdiocese to focus upon safeguarding and healing, with a reassessment of Safeguarding Sunday looking to rename, refocus and resituate it, with the preparation of appropriate ritual and resources, including an annual commissioning of local safeguarding people
** That the Archdiocese, in dialogue with survivors, implement processes that seek forgiveness for historical failings, recognising and addressing their needs. This could include a formal apology to survivors and their families, symbolic plaques and/or artwork in significant locations, theological reflection on sexual abuse within the Church which ought to be a place of refuge and safety, retreats and days of prayer that can foster healing, and the training of appropriately gifted people to undertake a ministry to survivors and their families.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 3 - CALLED BY CHRIST, SENT FORTH AS MISSIONARY DISCIPLES
The focus here is on the Church as a community of welcome for all, but especially for those who have been marginalised or excluded, listening to their stories and creating safe and hospitable spaces for them within the Church
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That an Archdiocesan family and intergenerational ministry working group be formed to develop and implement a holistic, intergenerational and inclusive approach to family faith-formation across educational and other Archdiocesan agencies in order to foster lifelong missionary discipleship
** That this working group explore ways of strengthening partnerships between parishes, schools, communities and agencies, develop and implement sacramental resources for children with diverse learning needs and disabilities, including training for sacramental coordinators and volunteers to use the resources, develop a safe and supportive network for parents and carers of children and young people who may need additional support to feel welcome, offer advice upon request at decision-making tables at all levels of Archdiocesan governance.
* That there be in self-nominated Mass centres the Eucharist and other liturgical celebrations catering for diverse needs within the community, provided with resourcing around mentorship, formation, training and succession-planning for self nominated clergy, religious and laity
*** That the Archdiocese provide facilitated listening sessions, workshops and forums for safe and supportive story-telling, truth-telling and dialogue, in order to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by those who are marginalised and disenfranchised
** That with the support and mentorship of the Archdiocesan Council for Ecumenism and Interreligious Relations, Queensland Churches Together and the Queensland Faith Communities Council, a co-responsible deanery approach to ecumenism and interreligious relations be developed and implemented, including short courses on ecumenism and interreligious relations, formation of individuals for work in ecumenical and interreligious relations, ecumenical retreats and pilgrimages, ecumenical and interreligious youth summits
*** That a strategic approach to mission in the digital environment be developed and implemented, focusing on the creation of digital media within a Catholic context, formation and training of people to work in the field, and including research into the possibilities and challenges of engaging the sacramental life of the Church through digital platforms such as live-streamed liturgies
** That the Archdiocese develop a pastoral ministry in sport, including formation and support programs and research into best practice and recommended qualifications, training and study pathways for sports chaplains.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 4 - WITNESSING TO THE EQUAL DIGNITY OF WOMEN AND MEN The focus here is on ensuring that the Church is a place where the equal dignity of women and men is respected and where the gifts of both women and men are identified and allowed to flourish for the sake of leadership within the Body of Christ
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
* That, if the universal law of the Church were modified to admit women to diaconal ordination, the Archdiocese examine how best to implement it in the context of the Church in Brisbane *** That a fulltime role of Executive Officer for Participation be established to design, implement and resource a plan for the full co-responsible participation of lay women and men in the life and mission of the Church ** That a reference group be established to explore options for the use of inclusive language in prayer, liturgy, scripture and all Archdiocesan communications * That a research project be established to explore the theological foundations of diverse understandings of women in the Church, leading to an assembly on co-responsibility of all the baptised in the life and mission of the Church *** That a pilot program be established to financially support the postgraduate education and formation of lay women and men in various areas of interest and importance to the Church, with the Archdiocese providing the initial funds with a view to establishing a foundation. A transparent application process would be overseen by the Archdiocesan Synod Council (see Action Plan 7) and approved finally by the Archbishop.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 5 - COMMUNION IN GRACE, SACRAMENT TO THE WORLD
The focus here is on the need to identify and foster the charisms given by God and to encourage new forms of ministry to supply the needs of the Church not only internally, for the sake of worship, but also externally, for the sake of mission
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
** That a ministry of front-of-house hospitality be developed and implemented for secretaries and other administrative staff in parishes and communities, recognising and formalising what is often happening, offering training and networking opportunities to those engaged in the ministry, devising processes of recruitment and care of those called to the ministry, and developing resources to help those engaged in the ministry
*** That the Archdiocese explore fully the possibilities of the ministries of catechist, lector and acolyte and consider what other ministries, open to all, instituted or not, might be needed to meet new needs
*** That the Archdiocese establish a Ministries Discernment Committee to oversee the recruitment, formation, commissioning, institution and continuing education of those preparing for or carrying out such ministries
** That the Archdiocese support and provide resources for lay-led liturgies where appropriate, particularly for parishes and communities without regular access to clergy
** That the Archdiocese give permission for lay people to preside at Catholic funerals and baptisms, indicating the circumstances in which this would be permitted and providing both discernment process and training programs for those involved in this ministry
** That the Archdiocese give permission for lay people to preside at Catholic weddings (in line with Chapter III of the Order of Celebrating Matrimony), indicating the circumstances in which this might occur and the process of delegation ** That the Archdiocese promote the participation of lay people in the ministry of preaching within the Sunday Mass and elsewhere, identifying the situations in which a lay person might offer a reflection during Mass, providing adequate training and support which would include sessions on how to run a Scripture study group, how to write and deliver a Lectionary-based reflection on the readings, how to make best use of the Directory for Masses with Children, drawing upon the resources of Archdiocesan agencies and organisations
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a project supporting the integration of families into parishes and communities in order to promote their sense of belonging and engagement in the life of the Church, providing resources to facilitate the incorporation of families into the community both before and after the sacraments of initiation and resources to support family catechesis when preparing children for the sacraments
** That the Archdiocese establish a network of groups working in marriage education and enrichment, including marriage preparation for engaged couples and ongoing accompaniment for married couples
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a formation strategy on the sacrament of penance and the many ways in which God’s mercy is experienced in Christian life and liturgy, providing resources and examples, such as ritual outlines for the celebration of the sacrament of penance, including the second rite, offering retreat opportunities for different age groups to enable them to experience the sacrament of penance, and revising the current sacramental policy on the provision of first penance for children.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 6 - FORMATION AND LEADERSHIP FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY
The focus here is on providing in a variety of ways the formation needed for ordained and non-ordained leadership in the Church, so that leaders will be properly equipped for the ministry to which they are called
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That the Archdiocese develop a plan for ministry and leadership formation, including a working group representing key people in formation and developing resources and programs on missional and synodal leadership such as podcasts, online modules and retreats, particularly for emerging leaders who have skills and qualifications equipping them for governance, leadership and other decision-making roles
* That the Archdiocese develop and implement opportunities for lay people to be engaged in ongoing spiritual growth beyond the liturgical context, including in small groups that meet regularly for prayer, bible study, reflection on Church documents, and spiritual accompaniment
* That parishes and deaneries offer formation events drawing upon experts to reflect on key topics such as prayer, scripture, sacraments, marriage and family, mission, care for our common home and inclusivity. SYNOD24
** That pathways for greater lay involvement in the ongoing formation of clergy and the formation of seminarians be identified, providing avenues for accompaniment of clergy by lay people and assisting pastors to work with a small group of lay people to provide regular feedback on homilies, based on an agreed criteria matrix
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a road-map for a mission focused Church that is synodal and co-responsible, including localised and ongoing conversations in the Spirit as a regular part of planning, decision-making, pastoral care and community-building
** That the Archdiocese teach simply and systematically the discipline and method of conversation in the Spirit as a way of discernment, attempting to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit in listening to each other.
* That the Archdiocese produce podcasts and digital media resources exploring what it means to read the signs of the times in the light of the Gospel
*** That the Archdiocese, at a time when the ethnic profile of the Catholic Church is changing both locally and globally, organise forums on interculturality in a missional, synodal and co-responsible Church.
*** That a SYNOD24 Formation and Implementation Plan be developed and implemented, providing opportunities for formation in all eight Action Plans and including resources and workshops in areas such as how to share faith with friends, how to engage with scripture, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island spirituality, integral ecology, sacraments and sacramentality, inclusive theology, the role of women in the Church, ecumenism and interreligious relations.
*** That the Archdiocese offers workshops and practical resources on how to implement the SYNOD24 Action Plans in parishes, communities and agencies across the Archdiocese.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 7 - AT THE SERVICE OF COMMUNION, PARTICIPATION AND MISSION: GOVERNANCE
The focus here is on the governance of the Church in a synodal key, looking to synods as a regular feature of Church life and to synodality as the characteristic of all aspects of Church governance for the sake of mission
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That the Archdiocese commit to celebrating Synods on a regular basis, so that this key element of synodality become a normal part of Archdiocesan life
*** That the Archdiocese establish a Synod Council which will meet regularly through the year between the Synods, members committing to formation in and practice of conversation in the Spirit as a key element of meetings and to formation in the nature and purpose of the Council
** That the Council commit to diverse representation including a mix of lay women and men, religious and the ordained.
** That the Archdiocese prepare Statutes for the Council ARCHDIOCESAN SUMMIT 2023 2 4 / ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE SYNOD24 Action Plans
** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a project to operate at deanery level to identify lay people who are women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, persons with a disability or from a cultural community, and who seem suitable to serve on councils and committees in the parish or the Archdiocese with the right kind of mentorship, accompaniment and formation, especially in the areas of synodality, co-responsibility and mission
** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a parish handover process that includes consultation with members of the parish, especially the Parish Pastoral Council, and the preparation of a statement of what the parish expects of a pastor.
* That there be in the Archdiocese regular performance reviews of pastors to identify areas of strength and areas for growth, with ongoing professional supervision to foster growth.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 8 - INTEGRAL ECOLOGY AND CONVERSION FOR THE SAKE OF OUR COMMON HOME
The focus here is on the need for ecological conversion in the life and mission of the Church, understanding that the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor are the one thing, and that ecological conversion must lead to action
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That an integral ecology formation strategy be developed and implemented for clergy, community leaders, agency staff and parishioners, to be revised every three years, helping them to grow in understanding of integral ecology and its impact on our behaviour and drawing where appropriate on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wisdom, and engaging with already existing eco-spirituality resources
* That all organisations, parishes and schools writing a Laudato Si Action Plan include a framework for measuring and reporting emission reduction that leads to a considered net zero pathway that includes commitment and timeframes.
* That, in addition to the emission reduction strategies, Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities be developed in the Archdiocese with a view to assisting all agencies, parishes and communities to embed measurable ESG outcomes into their future Laudato Si Action Plans. SANTA TERESA SPIRITUALITY CENTRE.
*** That an Ecological Ministry Strategic Plan be developed and implemented to support ecological ministry throughout the Archdiocese, recruiting deanery representatives to create hubs that support ecological ministers overseen by a coordinator employed by the Archdiocese to support action in parishes and communities
* That intergenerational and family initiatives be developed to promote the call to care for our common home
* That parishes, communities and agencies share their activities in the area of ecological engagement at events and through avenues of communication, and that cross-agency collaboration in this area be coordinated and encouraged throughout the Archdiocese.
*** That the Archdiocese produce guidelines and resources for parish clergy and liturgy coordinators indicating ways in which a commitment to integral ecology can be integrated into liturgical celebrations.
CLOSING REMARKS
Some of these action plans already have currency in one form or other in the Archdiocese, or at least in some parts of the Archdiocese. The task will be to give greater impetus and focus to those that already have currency, but also to set in motion the processes to which others look. Not all the action plans will be able to be implemented immediately, but none of them can be delayed indefinitely Therefore, priorities will have to be set in the hope that the action plans will have been implemented within five years. Budgeting will also need to be considered, as will the question of who has carriage of the various initiatives. There will need to be a group to oversee the implementation of the action plans, the Synod Council will also be charged with oversight of a broader kind, and the Archdiocesan Synods will monitor progress. Yet this is a document not just for some. It is for everyone; and I urge all parishes, communities, agencies and individuals to read and reflect upon the action plans and to be as creative as possible in implementing them. These action plans are comprehensive but not exhaustive. There are things not mentioned in this document which are important for the future of the Archdiocese of Brisbane. For instance, we will certainly need to consider restructuring our parishes and even our schools, looking not so much to amalgamation but more to building a “community of communities”. How to engage young people more energetically in the life of the Church is another question not prominent in these action plans but essential for the future of the Church. How to be more effective in teaching prayer as a way of life, the art of listening to God in prayer and the contemplative eye upon the world: this is another. The list could go on. This is another way of saying that these action plans should be read in conjunction with my own document “With Lamps Ablaze” which sets out a number of what I called apostolic priorities for the Archdiocese. These interweave with the action plans found here. I direct that these synodal declarations and decrees which I sign in accord with can. 466 be published to the entire community of the Archdiocese and that a copy be forwarded to the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference as required by can. 46 I thank all who have been part of the Synod journey, having heard the Lord’s promise to “make all things new” (Revelation 21:5). I commend these action plans to the grace of the Holy Spirit from whom this process has come forth and to the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, St Stephen and St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. May God who has begun the good work in us bring it to fulfilment (cf Philippians 1:6)
Mark
Archbishop of Brisbane
November 2024
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:
Talk to the police (Emergency: '000' Non-emergency: 131 444) or KidsHelpLine (1800 55 1800 or www.kidshelpline.com.au)
Through the anonymous STOPline (1300 304 550 or AOB@stopline.com.au)
talk to our Local Parish Safeguarding Representative
Fill out a Safeguarding Incident Report and send it to safeguarding@bne.catholic.net.au or GPO Box 282 Brisbane Qld 4001
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 >>
SEE ALSO
‘Police Check’ can now be completed online using InterCheck. Volunteers can do this via the Volunteer Portal, http://archbne.org/welcome, which will inform them whether they need a Police Check for their ministry.
Surfer's Paradise Parish Mission Statement.
We, the Catholic community of Surfers Paradise, guided by the Holy Spirit, strive to live the mission of Jesus through the spirituality of stewardship.
We are all brothers and sisters in the family of God, and we believe in the inherent dignity, reverence and sanctity of all humans as lovingly created children of God.
Centred in the Eucharist and nourished by word and sacrament, we proclaim by faith and action the love of God for all.
We seek in our daily lives and actions, and in our wider community participation, to live consistently and practically each day of the week, what we proclaim in worship of God on Sundays.
In the spirit of gratitude, we live out this mission by
· Committing to be prayerful disciples of Jesus Christ.
· Recognising and sharing our gifts and talents.
· Active involvement in the life of the parish, for the sole purpose of promoting the honour and glory of God, through our care and love of our neighbour
· Hospitality, charity, justice and compassion in practical ways.
· Nurturing our young people.
