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FROM JUNE 7th, 2026 SAINT VINCENT’S CHURCH -SURFERS PARADISE - WILL PERMANENTLY CHANGE MASSES TO 9 AM & 11 AM SUNDAYS - PLEASE LET EVERYONE KNOW WHO WOULD BENEFIT
PASTOR’S POST -
This weekend’s gospel invites us to a mission that starts where society often overlooks: Galilee. In Scripture, Galilee is not a glamorous hub but a marginalised, near-pagan region. Yet it is from this very place that Jesus begins his proclamation. The choice is intentional. It tells us that the good news is for the poor, the overlooked, and the everyday places we might call “ordinary.” Our starting point today remains the same: go to the places others ignore, and share God’s love with everyone, without exception. And we do this with the firm confidence that the Lord is with us always, as promised in Matthew 28:20.
A powerful reflection on Christ’s Ascension helps illuminate how Jesus remains present beyond time and space. He is not far away in a single moment or place; his presence is now everywhere, guiding and energising our efforts to heal, feed, and care for others. This is not theory but a call to active, personal response: God invites us to join in his work of transforming the world, to answer the needs we see, and to do so with compassion and practicality.
Stories and cartoons remind us of the heart of God’s invitation: God did something about hunger and need by calling us to participate. The question remains for each of us: how seriously do I take Jesus’ command to help create the world as God intended? The answer begins in Galilee—where the gospel starts—and continues wherever we live and work today.
Fr Paul Kelly
MASS TIMES CHANGES AT SAINT VINCENT’S SURFERS
As we assess the future viability of masses in our parish and acknowledge that we may not always have the regular assistance of our much appreciated retired priests, it is time to future-proof our masses. Our goal is to enable the two permanently appointed priests of the parish, (currently Fr Paul and Fr Bradley), to celebrate most of the parish masses, when needed, if our wonderful supply priests are not available.
We still intend to roster our current priests within the parish for as long as they feel able and are available. However, in situations where they are not—for various reasons—we can now cover the masses with our full-time priest staff of two.
From the first weekend of June 2026, St Vincent’s Church in Hamilton Avenue will operate on a new timetable. Masses will be at 9:00 am and 11:00 am on Sundays from 7 June onwards.
Reason for the change:
Increasingly, a priest who might celebrate the 7:00 am Stella Mass may have to rush to celebrate an 8:00 am Mass. This is not really feasible or safe, and is rushed and stressful.
In the past, we had a vocalist and organist who regularly used to rush from playing at the 7:00 am Mass to playing at the 8:00 am Mass, which was not sustainable or safe, and we raised these logistical difficulties several times.
Benefits of the new roster.
The new roster could allow one musician to play at several masses without being unacceptably pressured to arrive and be ready for the next Mass.
It enables roster changes without excessive stress, even with events that occur suddenly or with little notice.
This rostering approach aims to be flexible and practical, ensuring smooth Mass operations and reducing strain on staff and volunteers.
Fr Paul
Important Announcement:
Please do not use the parking spaces of the Inspiring Choices HQ (the former Centacare Building Office) - Their management will take necessary action of towing vehicles - at vehicle owner’s expense - not authorised to park in the reserved parking spaces for their patients and staff. Thank you.
Donations Please
NEEDED - WOOL OR ACRYLIC YARN
Sr Lis Keane and Mary Lepp are seeking donations of 8 ply wool or acrylic yarn to assist the ladies at Numinbah Prison who are crocheting rugs to go with Br Ollies Wheelchairs for Disabled Children in disadvantaged countries. Your assistance with either yarn (note: there are no colour restrictions), or small cash donations ($20 - $25.00 ) would be very gratefully received and can be left at Sacred Heart Church or Office under either of our names. Our prayers and grateful thanks for your help.
Sr Lis Keane and Mary Lepp.
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A BIOGRAPHY OF FR WARREN KINNE - Book Launch
Mass at Sacred Heart with Fr Warren 24th May 9am followed by the book launch at the Parish Hospitality Centre 🙏
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For more information on Catholic Mission’s work- please visit https://www.catholicmission.org.au/see-our-work-in-action/myanmar
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Caritas Australia Lebanon Emergency Appeal
Lebanon is facing one of its most severe humanitarian crises in years, as a sudden surge in violence and mass evacuation orders force families to flee with nothing.
Within 24 hours, Caritas Lebanon reported 667,831 newly displaced people seeking safety. Despite the volatile environment, Caritas Lebanon teams are operating across seven governorates, delivering food, essential items, healthcare, psychosocial support, water and hygiene assistance, and protection services.
Let us stand in solidarity with our partners in Lebanon.
Learn more or make a donation today at www.caritas.org.au/lebanon
Urgent Attention
Please do not park across the footpath at St Vincent’s church. You will likely be issued with a parking fine. Parking past the gate also prevents pedestrians from being able to use the footpath.
A letter in the style of Jane Austen:
If one may venture to imagine a weekend sermon as though it were a chapter from a novel by Miss Austen herself, the scene would be thus: the Gospel, in its most decorous modesty, invites us to a mission that begins where society most readily leaves off its notice—in Galilee. Not a Salon of elegance, nor a bustling metropolis, but a marginal cradle of humanity, a province lightly touched by the coin of glamour. And yet, from this very nook of the map, where the hems are frayed and the names not much spoken aloud, does Our Lord set forth his proclamation. The choice is deliberate, one might say almost a tactic of benevolence: the good news, cherished as a treasure, is directed to the poor, to the overlooked, to the ordinary, the sort of people one might pass by with an air of indifference as one would pass by a modest bonnet on a shop counter.
Let us adopt as our starting-point the same resolve we find enshrined in the text: repair to the places others forget, and there extend the gift of God’s love to all, without exception. And we undertake this with a firmness of confidence most fortunate, for the Lord, who has pledged his companionship in the charge to us all, remains with us, even unto the close of the age, as is so graciously promised in Matthew 28:20.
To contemplate with steadiness the Ascension of Christ is to discern a lesson of great practicality wrapped in celestial gravity. He is not a transient guest who tarrieth only for a single moment or locale; rather, his presence is now, and everywhere present, a guide and an energy to our weak but well-meant efforts to heal the hurts of the world, to feed the hungry of spirit and body, and to care for those whom fortune has slighted. This is no mere fancy of pious minds; it is a summons to activity, a call to set upon one’s own door-step the business of transformation, to answer with compassion that is both sincere and most sensible.
And then, as if to remind us of the very heart of the matter, there arrive in our recollection stories and cartoons—humble instruments, as it were—bearing witness to God’s invitation that He did not stand apart from need but acted upon it, summoning us to participate in his work. The question that presses upon every reader and every hearer is this: how earnestly do I comport myself with respect to Jesus’ command to fashion the world according to God’s gracious intention? The reply is to be sought first in Galilee—the very cradle of the gospel—then carried forth into the parlours, workshops, and libraries of our daily lives.
Thus we are invited to continue the narrative where it began: in Galilee, and thence to every hamlet and heart in which we chance to reside. For if the Gospel starts there, it must flourish wherever our own days are spent, whether at home or in the sphere of labour and concern. In such a spirit, let us go forth, with wit tempered by charity and resolve steadied by faith, to what the world most needs, secure in the Lord’s enduring companionship and the quiet certainty that our ordinary deeds may, indeed, become steps toward that design which God has cherished for all humanity.
{JA & PK}
ART FROM THE HOLY LANDS
A LITTLE PIECE OF BETHLEHEM IN THE FORM OF ART
We are very aware of how terrible the situation is in the Holy Lands. So much uncertainty and destruction.
Usually the Holy Lands are a very busy place for pilgrimages - but with the violence and destruction -the people in the region are isolated and have very few pilgrims or visitors. From time to time I have obtained various holy objects from the Holy Lands, particularly Bethlehem, for their spiritual significance and as an assistance to prayer and contemplation. It also happens to help the Christian artists and families and religious supplies people who are doing it extremely tough spiritually, economically and physically.
I thought it might be nice to present some stunning items of religious significance for your consideration. These are mosaics, made by local artists there from small coloured rocks and placed into frames. We have a few such items in the Sacred Heart Church already, (purchased through private funds), namely Jesus the Good Shepherd, and also Saint Michael the Archangel in the parish office foyer.
Here are some items from Bethlehem artists. If anyone wanted to purchase an item for their own use or for donation to the church, it could add great inspiration to people’s prayer life and also help struggling artists in the Holy Lands. These pictures are very large, and printed below (not to scale).
Palm Sunday 1.2 metres x 1.6metres (stone mosaic, framed) - USD$9,000 (frame and shipping included)
The Holy Family = USD$7,500 1mx1.4m (shipping included)
Jesus Washes the disciples’ feet= USD$6,000. 1.2m x 1.2m (shipping included)
The Miraculous catch of fish= USD $11,000 - very large - 2m x 1.6 m
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CATHOLIC LEADER NEWSPAPER SUBSCRIPTION
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details or more information.
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Bishops seek focus on cost-of-living crisis
Australia’s Catholic bishops have urged courage and tenderness in addressing the nation’s cost-of-living crisis. “As disciples of Jesus, we cannot turn away from these realities. The Gospel calls us to see Christ in those who suffer and to walk alongside them with compassion. The statement and related resources can be found at Social Justice Statements
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THE JUBILEE YEAR OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI (2026)
800TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI.
HIS ADMONITIONS, and RULES.
26. That the Servants of God should honor Clerics.
Blessed is the servant of God who exhibits confidence in clerics who live uprightly according to the form of the holy Roman Church. And woe to those who despise them: for even though they [the clerics] may be sinners, nevertheless no one ought to judge them, because the Lord Himself reserves to Himself alone the right of judging them. For as the administration with which they are charged, to wit, of the most holy Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which they receive and which they alone administer to others—is greater than all others, even so the sin of those who offend against them is greater than any against all the other men in this world.
27. Of the Virtues putting Vices to flight.
Where there is charity and wisdom there is neither fear nor ignorance. Where there is patience and humility there is neither anger nor worry. 1 Where there is poverty and joy there is neither cupidity nor avarice. Where there is quiet and meditation there is neither solicitude nor dissipation. Where there is the fear of the Lord to guard the house the enemy cannot find a way to enter. Where there is mercy and discretion there is neither superfluity nor hard-heartedness.
28. Of hiding Good lest it be lost.
Blessed is the servant who treasures up in heaven the good things which the Lord shows him and who does not wish to manifest them to men through the hope of reward, for the Most High will Himself manifest his works to whomsoever He may please. Blessed is the servant who keeps the secrets of the Lord in his heart.
[Giotto di Bondone (1266-1337)– Frescoes in the crossing vault - “The Apotheosis of St Francis”, The crossing vault of the Lower Church of San Francesco in Assisi, located directly above St. Francis's tomb and the high altar]
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PILGRIMAGE - SAINTS OF ITALY Pilgrimage (8th - 20th June 2026)
Fr. Franco Filipetto from St. Mary’s Parish in Warwick warmly invites you to join a spiritually enriching pilgrimage to Italy, visiting Milan, Padua, Florence, Assisi, Rotondo, and Rome, walking in the footsteps of the saints, and drawing inspiration from their lives, witness, and enduring legacy in the very places where they lived and served.
This all-inclusive pilgrimage is priced at $9,290 (30+ pilgrims). The fare includes return economy airfares, local transfers in deluxe coaches, accommodation in 4-star premium hotels, daily meals, English-speaking professional guides, entrance fees as per the itinerary, and more. We would be delighted for you to join us on this unforgettable journey of faith. For inquiries & bookings call 03 8839 6615 or email us pilgrimage@magiholidays.com.au
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THE BIBLE TIMELINE – THE STORY OF SALVATION
ADULT FAITH FORMATION BIBLE STUDY
CONTINUES on LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 2026
Next gathering Sunday 31st May 2026
Session 19 Messianic Fulfillment Part 11
What an enormous effort by those who have participated - only 5 sessions left.
Session 20 - Messianic Fulfillment - Part 111 - 28th June 2026
Session 21 - The Church - Part 1- 26th July 2026
Session 22 - The Church Part 11 - 30th August 2026
Session 23 - The Church Part 111 - 27th September 2026
In the Parish Hospitality Centre - (next to Sacred Heart Church), 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland 4226, on the Last Sunday of the month 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 - ask the office if we have any still on hand first. The Study Set will contain The Bible Timeline Study Book, Chart and Bookmark - https://ascensionpress.com/ https://garrattpublishing.com.au/
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Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish
Youth Group
- Ignis Dei (Fire of God)
Next gathering Sunday 17th of May
7pm to 9pm in the Parish Hospitality Centre,
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters
Come along as we have a bite to eat, and journey through and discuss a video series on the Mass presented by Emeritus Archbishop, Mark Coleridge! Finalising the night with Adoration and Night Prayer
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Fr Bradley and the parish youth team look forward to our teenagers and young adults joining us for these upcoming events!!!
(Please contact the parish office if you need assistance with rego fees. We don’t want that to be the reason you miss out!!!)
Ignite Launch - Saturday 16 May, 2026 @ Dreamworld
This is an extremely fun day of riding roller coasters and meeting other teens who are exploring/deepening their Catholic faith. This is especially appropriate for those who are testing the waters and new to the faith. If you are looking to find out more in a fun and relaxed environment, please join our youth on 16 May 2026.
After the park closes, we will enjoy dinner and a dance party, hearing from special guest speaker, Fr Rob Galea, who has an incredible story about how he got away from a life of gangs to living freely in the faith.
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More details coming soon
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FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Friday June 5th 2026. At Sacred Heart Catholic Church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. 4226. From 7 pm
FIRST SATURDAY MASS -
Saturday 6th June, 2026. 9am Sacred Heart Church. First Saturday schedule for Mass, Adoration and Benediction on the First Saturday of each month.
Anointing Mass – Mass of Healing FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (February-November Inclusive)
Tuesday 2nd June 2026. At 10 am followed by a cuppa and refreshments. Sacred Heart Catholic Church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. 4226.
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Saint Vincent de Paul Society Reflections
For more details on the conference's activities, please contact Conference President Wendy Webb at wendy.webb@svdpqld.org.au
Ascension of the Lord – A (note) - Sunday, May 17, 2026
THIS WEEK...
“We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen apart, and to bring home those who have lost their way.” Saint Francis of Assisi
PRAYER
Lord make us into the salt of the earth and the leaven that sanctifies the world from within.
MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS
Acts 1:1-11
Eph 1:17-23
Mt 28:16-20
Our patron St Vincent de Paul was watching the waves rolling against the ship carrying him back to France, when he noticed the shadow of another ship on the horizon. As the ship drew closer, he recognised Turkish pirates preparing to attack with the sole intention of capturing and selling all passengers on board the ship as slaves in Tunis. Over the next two years, Vincent was trafficked as a slave and endured gruelling labour, malnutrition and pressure to apostatise. During this time, Vincent did not cease to share his faith with his fellow slaves and masters in a nation that was dangerously hostile to it. So much so, that his last master, so moved by Vincent’s words and example, reclaimed his Catholic faith and escaped with Vincent back to France where they could practice their faith without persecution.
Prior to ascending body and soul to Heaven to sit in glory at the right hand of the Father, Jesus gave his disciples a powerful commission: ‘Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations’ (Matthew 28:19). The Greek word for disciple in the New Testament is μαθητής (mathētḗs) meaning learner, pupil, or student. Jesus therefore commanded his followers to make all nations students of the gospel. As lay Catholics, we too are invited to share in this commission to evangelise. ‘This evangelisation, that is, this announcing of Christ by a living testimony as well as by the spoken word, takes on a specific quality and a special force in that it is carried out in the ordinary surroundings of the world’ (Lumen Gentium, 35). As laity we are in the privileged position to share the gospel in spaces where the clergy cannot, allowing the church to truly become the salt of the earth.
In our work within conferences, we are called to be the salt in the lives of the people we assist. ‘Vincentians serve in hope. They rejoice in discovering the spirit of prayer in the poor, for in the silence, the poor can perceive God’s Plan for every person.’(Vincentian Rule 1.1). Our greatest gift to the poor isn’t the material assistance we provide but rather the witness to the unconditional love of our Saviour Jesus who tells them ‘for surely I know the plans I have for you…plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope’ (Jeremiah 29:11). (Reflection by Nirmal Nanayakkara)
How is Jesus calling you to make disciples of all nations?
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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 are now available on the new devices.
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 promptly address pastoral needs across the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes in this Deanery practice that the first call for emergencies goes 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: the first priest to call is from the parish where the Nursing Home is located. Please help us serve the region effectively and prevent response delays by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5558 0120
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
CHILDHOOD SACRAMENTS - 2026
Baptism
Who: Birth to 7 years (older children may need extra preparation)
Enrolment & booking: Online
(STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 BAPTISM ENQUIRY)
Eligible - Children aged from birth to 7:
Email Merla Nario: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Children aged 8+ years: email - sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au to start prep
When: Most Sundays, 10:30 am, Sacred Heart Church
Administrative fee: $130
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > Baptism)
Confirmation 2026 Rehearsals: 11 or 12 August, 5:30 pm
Confirmation: 21 August 2026, 5:00 or 7:00 pm
Preparation: Preparation Program (parents + children)
Administrative fee: $150 total for Confirmation & Eucharist prep
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > Confirmation)
Enrol: STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 ENROL
For more info: sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Eucharist (First Holy Communion) 2026
(this group has begun and is closed except for those presently completing it)
Who: Year 4+; Baptised & Confirmed (approx 9 to ten years of age)
When (sequence): all elements are required.
Reconciliations: Tuesday 19 May, 5:30 pm (parent and child attend)
Rehearsals: Tuesday 26 or Wed 27 May, 5:30 pm (parent and child attend)
First Communions: 31 May, 11:00 am or 7 June, 11:00 am (parent and child attend)
Administrative fee: $120 preparation (excludes Confirmation)
Notes:
If the child was confirmed in 2025, auto-included for 2026 prep; no extra fee if already paid in 2025
If confirmed in another parish, follow the First Communion enrolment steps
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > First Holy Communion)
Enrol: STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 ENROL
For more info: sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
General
All sacraments at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, Qld 4226
Enrolment status or information requests: via parish site links or Sacramental Team emails above.
IN OUR PRAYERS (Please let us know when to remove a name from the list).
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Please also pray for the following, who are ill. (Alphabetical)
Liz Marie Alcaza, Lindsay Allan, Robert Andreas, Joseph Antony, Milroy Antony, Ellen Ball, Tricia Baumann, Phil Bawden, Gregory Bechly, Nellie Bellinger, Mary and Leon Brosnan, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Gerard Carroll, Danielle Cavielli, Nadia Ceh, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Jamie Creed, Shirley Croft, Christopher Cunningham, Mary Curmi, Bernie Delaney, Lenore Dobbie, Christopher Eid, Dawn Evered, Judi Farrow, John Fletcher, John Fox, Lorraine Gallagher, Maralyn Gow, Eleanor (Nelly) Graham, Jenny Haines, Denise Hales, Betty Hannon, Gary Haywood, Jenny Johnson, Kevin & Francis Junee, Leona Kelly, Robyn Kennedy, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Robert Lahey, Dallas Laine, Dannielle Therese Larney, Thi Le, Alvin Lee, Nathan Lepp, Maureen Lloyd, Ann Loder, Veronica Lubomski, Victoria MacDonald, Fr John Maher, Jim Mathews, l. McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Leonie McMahon, Anthea McMullin, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Eileen O’Mara, John O’Neill, Margaret Orme, Tommy Osborne, Kevin Owen, Jamie Paterson, Susan Paterson, Sarah Pawley, Janina Pazek, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Paul Picone, Rachel Raines, Gus Reeves, Melba Rentoul, Fabian Restaino, Sally Rickard, Alan Robinson, Bob Rogers, Joan Cecilia Rudd, Jens Ryan-Raison, Marnia Ryan-Raison, Alf Schembri, Vilma Sudonallo, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonie and Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Lynette Wyer.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Grace Lim, Nunziata (Nancy) Tognini, Mr Julio Costa Da Conceição, Susan Quirk..
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH:
This week’s Anniversaries (Alphabetical) (Sunday, May 17, 2026-Saturday, 23 May 2026)
Norma Jean Ancrum, Donald Hope Atkinson, Douglas Pierce Bates, Benjamin Gary Bayes, Margaret Bell Boyle, Lilian Elizabeth Cheetham, Daniel Clancy, Rosemarie Ann Cocks, Patricia Connaghan, Leonor Corazon, June Valeen Deane, Nancy Denaro, Helen Dunn, David John Falvey, Irmgard (Joan) Graz, Ross Patrick Hickey, Thomas Hirst, Deris Howell, Jack Arthur Hurley, Marina Innocenti, Adoracion Santos Lapitan, Clarita Lopez, Debra Love, Distony Lunandi, Andreas Gandjar Lunandi, Fr Carmello Micallef, Fr Michael Murphy, Angel Dee Nipperess, Brian Nolan, Judith Anne O'Connor, Ronald Stanley Perry, Jean Georges Rabbath, Geoffrey John Rapp, Mansour Soueidan, Karen Ann Tansey, Roy Thain, Maria Lucia Zervos, John Zervos.
Last Week’s anniversaries of Death: (Sunday, May 10, 2026-Saturday, 16 May 2026)
Charles Adrian Airo-Farulla, Alma Anderson, Robert Brian Butler, John Joseph Chappell, John Egan, Desmond Douglas Fox, Hans Gerhard Gringel, Anthony George Howard, Janina Kraus, Maria Louisa (Mary) Leggiere, Elena Letizia, Leo Joseph Ah Lo, Milka Marusic, John McGrath, Calogero Misuraca, Fr John O'Connell, Daphne Gabriel Paice, John Rawlings, Joseph Salim, Michael Schons, Josephine Tansey, Sr Mary Teresa, Heather Lorraine Williams.
HOLY GROUNDS CAFE -
The Café - “Sacred Grounds” is Located at the Former Atrium Building near the Sacred Heart Church.
Dmitri, Svetlana and Demid Schodin, are the operators of Sacred Grounds Cafe on the grounds of the parish. They are a very friendly, lovely, young family. The cafe's food is delicious, and the atmosphere is vibrant and warm. Come and make them feel welcome and support a local business! The Sacred Grounds will be open from 7 am to 4 pm each day. They specialise in Coffee, breakfasts, lunches, and a takeaway menu, and they even bake on premises!
The café near the Sacred Heart Church is a wonderful gathering place for parishioners, school parents, staff, and
the wider public. The café is in the old Atrium building.
This allows 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.
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Open before and after the weekend Masses
Children’s Bibles suitable for Sacramental Gift giving. Many different titles available.
As requested a new supply of mantillas/head scarves have arrived in the shops.
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 own 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-
Sacred Heart Bridge Club - Join Our Bridge Club! - Meet, Play, and Enjoy the Game of Bridge. Looking for a fun, social, and stimulating activity? Whether you're a returning player or a Beginner wanting to learn, our Bridge Club welcomes players of all levels!
Where: Hospitality Room
When: Monday and Wednesday from 1.00 pm
Contact: Cheryl on 0417 772 701
✔ Friendly Atmosphere ✔ Lessons for Beginners ✔ Weekly Games ✔ Tea, Coffee & Good Company! Come for the cards, stay for the camaraderie!
WCCM - WORLD COMMUNITY FOR CHRISTIAN MEDITATION
This meditation group meets each Tuesday in the Morris Prayer Room located at 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. Meditation starts from 10am until 10.30am. If you are new to meditation, we will assist you in learning about WCCM and the practice of Christian Meditation. For more information, please contact Pam Egberts at 0493 742 670.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray The Stations of the Cross, The Divine Mercy and The Rosary each day at 8:00 am at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
MARIAN VALLEY - SHRINE PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Shrine for Our Lady of Fatima’s Feast on Wednesday the 13th of May 2026, and on Saturday the 23rd of May 2026 Main Celebration of Our Lady of Help of Christian, Patroness of Australia and Shrine of Marian Valley. Bus leaves sharp at 8.15am on both days, from No. 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. The cost of the bus fare return per person for each trip is $35.00. You can secure your seat for both days with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260 and Medeleine 5529 1573. If you need further info, please call Xavier 0404 843 260.
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 while gaining greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness, and concentration, while increasing your breath support and overall well-being. Ruth is an IYTA-accredited instructor with extensive experience and offers a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session for $10 (new attendees, please arrive by 10:30 a.m. to prepare adequately for class). For more information, please email surfers@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 would like her in your home and to say the Rosary, please contact Maxine or Pat. For more information, please email: psela@bigpond.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
11/5/26 Maxine and Pat Sela
18/5/26 Maxine and Pat Sela
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 or call 07 5671 7388.
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Friday from 5 pm-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church
(40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise).
Join us for a read/study break and open The Word weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesús de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate on the 2nd Saturday of each 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 -
SACRED HEART CHURCH PARKING
A special notice - when parking, please leave the emergency and taxi pickup “yellow painted area” clear for ambulance or brief taxi drop off and pickup and the disabled parking areas are only for disability permit persons - thanks for your assistance in ensuring this important compliance]
PARISH PODCAST
To tune in to Our parish Podcast of the Mass for Sundays and Solemnities, 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
A VOCATION VIEW:
Through His death, resurrection and ascension, Christ showed us the path to eternal life. Know that the Lord is with you always, through your struggles and triumphs, and that he will hear your prayers.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - “I am praying for them…”JOHN 17:9
Prayer is the foundation of our Faith and Stewardship. Prayer is always the first best option in any situation - not just our last resort. Pray for friends and family, especially those who don’t treat you very well. Pray to give praise, thanks, and ask God for help. Pray to see what God wants you to do with the gifts He has given you. Teach others how to pray. It has been said that teaching someone how to pray is the best gift you can give someone.
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
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TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Consume media with care
He couldn't have foreseen the technological advances the 21st century would bring. Yet in 1967, Pope Saint Paul VI appreciated the need for a World Communications Day. He established the Sunday before Pentecost as an annual reflection on the opportunities and challenges of presenting the gospel message to a global society. The press, movies, radio, and television all commanded great attention in his generation. The internet and cell phones have exponentially increased the range today. What are we saying and absorbing through all these media? Be a discerning steward of words and images. "The words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them." (John 17:6-12).
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
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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.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL
-To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, including the Easter Mass - please visit this link:
Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL - MISSION AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
The disciples receive their mission in Galilee, a marginalised region, close to the pagan world and, as a result, an area viewed with contempt by the practising Jews of Judea where Jerusalem is located. The proclamation of the gospel starts from an insignificant and despised land. This is not just a matter of geography; it is highly significant. It serves as an example. For us today, Galilee is the world of the poor and the marginalised. This is our starting place to proclaim the gospel to everyone without exception. We will do that with the conviction that the Lord will always be with us (Mt 28:20).-
“The Ascension of Christ is his liberation from all restrictions of time and space. It does not represent his removal from earth, but his constant presence everywhere on earth.” (William Temple).[i] That is, Christ is now present and active in the world in a new and even more effective way-- freed from the limitations of being merely in a particular place at a particular time only. (ii)
There is a cartoon that I found (below):
I feel that this cartoon really sums up the heart of God’s invitation to us all; an invitation for us to participate fully in his life and in his love.(*) I remember a similar cartoon from the Charles Shultz series, The Peanuts Gang” (from many years ago)… I think it was Linus and Lucy sitting on a hill looking at the sunset… and Lucy asks. “Why did God allow people to be hungry and poor? Why doesn’t he do something about it?” To which Linus replies.. “he DID do something about it. He asked US to go and help them, and we didn't" !!!
And similarly, this story: … “A woman saw a little girl in the street playing in the midst of filthy rubbish. The child was poorly dressed and ill-nourished. The woman became angry and said to God: "Why do you let things like that happen in the world you created? Why don't you do something about it?"
- To this question, God replied gently but firmly: "I did do something about it; I created you."
That story invites me to ask myself: How seriously do I take Jesus' command to transform our world into the kind of place God created it to be?”[iii]
In this gospel we have heard today….. it is Galilee which is the main setting of Jesus' preaching, a subtle touch seeking to emphasise the identity between the historical Jesus and the risen Christ. The encounter is very simple. There are no dramatic elements to make this moment spectacular. It is our Lord and master, continuing to teach and instruct.[iv] (The message of Christ and his gospel is spectacular enough in itself).
The disciples receive their mission in Galilee, a marginalised region close to the pagan world and, as a result, an area viewed with contempt by the practising Jews of Judea, where Jerusalem is located. The proclamation of the gospel starts from an insignificant and despised land. This is not just a matter of geography; it is highly significant. It serves as an example. For us today, Galilee is the world of the poor and the marginalised. This is our starting place to proclaim the gospel to everyone without exception. We will do that with the conviction that the Lord will always be with us (Mt 28:20).[v]
REFERENCES: Fr Paul W. Kelly; [i] VISION – PRAYING SCRIPTURE IN A CONTEMPORARY WAY. YEAR A. BY MARK LINK S.J. P.154; [ii] Cartoon by the late Joel Kauffmann: https://anabaptistworld.org/tag/pontius-puddle/ ; [iii] VISION – PRAYING SCRIPTURE IN A CONTEMPORARY WAY. YEAR A. BY MARK LINK S.J. P.154; [iv] SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ. p.107; [v] SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ.p. 108
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 148013489 - VIENNA - JULY 27: Fresco of Ascension of the Lord in the nave of Altlerchenfelder church from 19. cent. on July 27, 2013, in Vienna. -Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
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To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this
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.
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THE WISDOM OF THE SAINTS:
(Sunday, May 17, 2026 -Saturday, 23 May 2026)
St John 1
(c. 470 – May 18, 526) is believed to have been born in Siena.
Saint John I’s Story: Pope John I inherited the Arian heresy, which denied the divinity of Christ. Italy had been ruled for 30 years by an emperor who espoused the heresy, though he treated the empire’s Catholics with toleration. His policy changed at about the time the young John was elected pope.
When the eastern emperor began imposing severe measures on the Arians of his area, the western emperor forced John to head a delegation to the East to soften the measures against the heretics. Little is known of the manner or outcome of the negotiations—designed to secure continued toleration of Catholics in the West.
On his way home, John was imprisoned at Ravenna because the emperor had begun to suspect that John’s friendship with his eastern rival might lead to a conspiracy against his throne. Shortly after his imprisonment, John died, apparently, from the treatment he received in prison.
John’s body was transported to Rome and he was buried in the Basilica of St. Peter.
We cannot choose the issues for which we have to suffer and perhaps die.
Pope Saint John the First suffered because of a power-conscious emperor. Jesus suffered because of the suspicions of those who were threatened by his freedom, openness, and powerlessness. “If you find that the world hates you, know it has hated me before you” (John 15:18).
St Bernadine of Siena
“Whenever the divine favour chooses someone to receive a special grace or to accept a lofty vocation, God adorns the person chosen with all the gifts of the Spirit needed to fulfil the task at hand.”
“The name of Jesus, is in fact, the great foundation of the faith that turns people into children of God. The Catholic Faith indeed, consists in the news of Jesus Christ, as the light of the soul, gate of life and foundation of eternal salvation.”
“The Name of Jesus is the glory of preachers because the shining splendour of that Name causes His word to be proclaimed and heard. And how do you think such an immense, sudden and dazzling light of faith came into the world, if not because Jesus was preached? Was it not through the brilliance and sweet savour of this Name that God called us into His marvellous light?”
“The last degree of love is when He gave Himself to us to be our Food; because He gave Himself to be united with us in every way.”
“Let Mary never be far from your lips and from your heart. Following her, you will never lose your way. Praying to her, you will never sink into despair. Contemplating her, you will never go wrong.”
St Christopher Magallanes, Priest, and companions, Martyrs. 21 May
Born in 1869. Died on 25 May 1927 at Colotitlan (Mexico). Parish priest, Christobal Magallanes, founder of a clandestine seminary at Totatiche, is commemorated with 21 other diocesan priests and three laymen. Martyred in Mexico, mostly in 1926-1928, during a fierce religious persecution that outlawed the celebration of the sacraments. They are remembered for their courageous faith, for forgiving their executioners, and for their final cry, Viva Christo Rey!
His last words are recorded as, “I am innocent and die innocent. I absolve with all my heart those who seek my death and ask God that my blood bring peace to a divided Mexico.” Father Agustín Caloca Cortés, Father Magallanes' assistant, was arrested on the same day as Father Magallanes and imprisoned with him.
“We live for God, and for Him we die!” (Father Agustín Caloca Cortés).
The twenty-five saints we honour today died at the hands of the Mexican government during a time of anti-Catholic turmoil. One died in 1915, and the remaining twenty-four were killed between 1926 and 1928. Of the three laymen and the twenty-two diocesan priests, two were hanged in the public square, and the rest were shot to death, most by firing squad without a trial. Each priest’s only crime was secretly ministering to the people’s needs. The three laymen were members of a Catholic action group that opposed the oppression of the Church and encouraged fellow Catholics to remain strong in their faith.
After Spanish Franciscans brought the faith to Mexico in the 1500s, the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe aided efforts to share the Gospel. By the turn of the nineteenth century, some political rulers resented the Church’s influence and sought to eradicate it, beginning with a new Mexican constitution in 1857. The government confiscated Church property, and the state and Church began to separate. After a period of relative peace, a new Mexican president began enforcing anti-Catholic laws in 1926. He eliminated the Catholic education of youth, expelled all foreign priests, banned celibacy and religious vows, and confiscated all remaining Church property. The devastation was immense. At the beginning of the century, 4,500 mostly foreign-born priests served in Mexico. By 1934, only 334 state-licensed native priests remained for approximately fifteen million Catholics.
Today’s memorial mentions one martyr by the name of Saint Christopher Magallanes. Cristobal Magallanes Jara was born in Totatiche, Jalisco, Mexico, to devout parents who were farmers. As a child, Christopher worked the land and tended the sheep. In 1888, Christopher entered the seminary at nineteen and was ordained a priest eleven years later. He began his ministry as a teacher in Guadalajara but soon became a parish priest in his hometown, serving for over twenty years.
Father Magallanes served his parishioners’ spiritual needs and evangelised the indigenous people. He also founded schools and opened a carpentry shop to employ the locals and build the town’s infrastructure. In 1915, after the government closed the seminary in Guadalajara, Father Christopher operated a secret seminary for seventeen seminarians in his own home.
Though Father Magallanes did not support armed rebellion, he was arrested for supporting the Christeros, peasants who opposed the government’s anti-Catholic oppression. Four days after his arrest, on May 21, 1927, he was shot to death without receiving a trial. His last words are recorded as, “I am innocent and die innocent. I absolve with all my heart those who seek my death and ask God that my blood bring peace to a divided Mexico.”
Father Agustín Caloca Cortés, Father Magallanes’ assistant, was arrested on the same day as Father Magallanes and imprisoned with him. Since Father Cortés was only twenty-nine years old, the officers offered to set him free. He refused unless Father Magallanes was set free, which the guards refused to do. Father Cortés’ last words were, “For God we lived, and for Him we die.”
Saint Christopher Magallanes and Companions, you valued the Catholic faith over your own lives. Please pray that I will have your courage so that I can give witness to my love of God, even to the shedding of my blood. Saint Christopher Magallanes and Companions, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.
St Rita of Cascia, Religious. 22 May. Optional Memorial
Born in 1381 at Rocca Porena (Italy). Died on this day in 1457 at Cascia. Obedient to the will of elderly parents, she accepted an abusive husband and remained faithful for eighteen years until his violent death. When her two sons died soon after, she became an Augustinian nun. Remembered for her life of penance and her suffering in union with Christ crucified.
“There is nothing impossible to God.”
“Most Holy Sacred Heart of Jesus, help my heart to preserve in all that is holy.”
“Let me, my Jesus, share in Thy suffering, at least one of Thy thorns.”
Poem inscribed on her casket: “Blessed by God, you were a light in darkness through your steadfast courage when you had to suffer such agony upon your cross. You turned aside from this vale of tears to seek wholeness for your hidden wounds in the great passion of Christ. . . . You were not content with less than perfect healing, and so endured the thorn for fifteen years before you entered into the joy of your Lord.
love God above all this. His goodness being infinite and his beauty without comparison, you should always keep before your mind the great love he has for you as Father, Spouse, and Master.
PAPAL REFLECTION
Image Credit- Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 2285846983 - The Pope AND the Catholic Church and the mercy of God. Vector Contributor: doom.ko
Source: https://x.com/Pontifex
The Church interprets history through the lens of the Gospel and speaks decisively against all evil, as the pilgrim People of God. At the same time, she acknowledges the need for continual conversion so she may properly fulfill her mission. As members of the same Body, we are called to renewal. #GeneralAudience - Pope Leo XIV
@Pontifex
May 4
Practical assistance offered to the disadvantaged allows them to experience God’s love, and opens a path for them to enter into a lasting relationship with God. At the same time, it enables us to come into contact with the flesh of Christ by seeking to see and serve Him in our neighbour.
May 3
Today, we celebrate World Press Freedom Day, sponsored by UNESCO. Unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes flagrantly, sometimes in hidden ways. Let us remember the many journalists and reporters who are victims of war and violence.
May 3
“Have faith,” Jesus tells us in the #GospelOfTheDay (Jn 14:1). That is the secret! It is precisely this faith that frees our hearts from the anxiety of possessing and acquiring, and from the illusion that we must pursue a position of prestige to have worth.
Apr 30
Let us #PrayTogether that everyone, from large producers to small consumers, be committed to avoid wasting food, and to ensure that everyone has access to quality food. #PrayerIntention
Apr 29
From the beginning of my pontificate, I have thought about a journey in #Africa. I thank the Lord for granting me the opportunity to undertake it, as Shepherd, in order to encounter and encourage the people of God, as well as to offer a message of peace and hope. #Peace at a time in history
Apr 29
For the people of Africa, the Pope’s visit was a chance to make their voices heard, to express the joy of being God’s people and the hope for a better future, of dignity for each and every person. I am happy to have given them this opportunity. Pope Leo ·
Apr 28
Our mission calls us to be “bridges” and “channels” of #Peace, even before trying to build it with our limited human efforts, especially in the face of those who do not seek it as a gift from God. May the grace that comes from heaven find its way through the folds of history.
Apr 27
While our suffering world greatly needs the #peace of Christ, the divisions among Christians weakens our capacity to be effective bearers of that peace. If the world is to take our preaching to heart, we must, therefore, be constant in our prayers and efforts to remove any obstacles to peace.
Apr 26
Today marks the 40th anniversary of the tragic Chernobyl incident, which left a lasting mark on the conscience of humanity. It serves as a warning about the inherent risks in the use of increasingly powerful technologies. We entrust those who died and all who still suffer from the effects to God.
Apr 26
The Holy Spirit unites people and vocations in freedom, so that no one may live only for themselves any longer. Each Sunday calls us out of the “tomb” of isolation and seclusion, so that we may meet in the garden of communion where the Risen One watches over us.
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Receiving Holy Communion: A Gentle Reminder
The reception of Holy Communion is one of the most sacred moments of our Catholic life. To assist both communicants and communion ministers, it is helpful that our actions are clear, reverent, and consistent.
The Australian Catholic Bishops have asked that we observe common practices so that Communion may be received smoothly and prayerfully.
Preparing as You Approach
As you come forward in the procession, please be ready and clear about how you intend to receive Communion. Avoid last‑second changes or unclear gestures, as these can be confusing for the minister.
Those not receiving Communion should approach with arms crossed over the chest in a clear, dignified manner so the minister understands that a blessing is being requested.
Those receiving Communion should show their intention clearly, and well before reaching the minister.
Receiving Communion in the Hand
If you receive the Host in the hand:
Place your dominant hand underneath your other hand. Lift your hands up to a comfortable height, flat and steady, well before it is your turn.
Once in front of the minister, please stand as still as possible. Your head and body should be still.
Hold your hands clearly so the minister can see and reach your uplifted hands easily.
The Priest or minister will say “The Body of Christ” and you reply “AMEN”.
Once the Host is placed onto your hand, you then reverently pick up the host with your dominant hand which has been underneath the upper hand and please consume the host immediately, before walking away.
Unless there is a medical reason, the host is to be received, not taken.
the host is placed on the flat open hand of the recipient, with the person's dominant hand underneath this hand. Once the host is placed in your hand, you bring your dominant hand from underneath the upper hand and pick up the host and place it in your mouth. When the communion is presented to you, please never grab or clutch at the host. The host is always received, not taken. The host is placed on the hand of the recipient who then takes and consumes it reverently.
Please do not put only one hand forward - (unless there is a medical reason). Please use both hands: one open and flattened hand is resting upon the other flattened and open hand.
Please do not have your hands side by side to each other, but one hand above the other. Presenting two hands side by side is greatly confusing for the communion minister as they have to needlessly decide which hand to place the host upon, and the host could accidentally fall through the two hands as the recipient separates their hands to consume the host. Ministers present large numbers of people with hosts, so confusing hand positions cause delays and can lead to hosts falling.
Please see below the correct and incorrect positions - shown by either a tick or a cross.
Some people choose to Receive Communion on the Tongue
If you receive Communion on the tongue:
Approach the minister with hands together in a prayer‑like position. 🙏
When you reach the minister, stand as still as possible. Extend your tongue clearly and prominently, allowing the priest or minister to place the Host securely and reverently. Please do NOT merely open your teeth a fraction, as one cannot expect the minister to put the host in like a postal slot.
Merely opening the mouth without extending the tongue outside the mouth is not acceptable.
here is the correct way …
Below are some incorrect ways..:
Avoid movement of your head or body at the moment the Host is being given.
Please do not put your head back, as that makes the mouth even further away from the minister and would also require the minister to drop the host into a person's mouth, which is extremely awkward and also could cause choking.
Receiving the Chalice
It is encouraged to receive communion under both species- that is, the host and the chalice. It is a more full sign of the Last Supper where Jesus said “take and eat” as well as “take and drink”
having said this, it is not compulsory to receive both the host and chalice but it is encouraged.
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus is truly received in his Body and Blood in the host and also in the Precious Blood of the chalice. If someone only receives the Host, they receive Jesus in his Body and Blood. If someone only receives the chalice they receive Jesus in his Body and Blood. Those who receive both receive Jesus in his Body and Blood but in a more full sign.
The Chalice, when it is offered, is handed to the recipient. Please receive the chalice with your two hands, but be careful to take the chalice in a place other than where the minister is holding it.
From the picture above, notice that the minister is holding the chalice in the middle and the person receiving the chalice is taking it reverently with two hands, and safely holding the chalice at a different position, namely at the bottom and near the top.
As an example of an incorrect situation: If the recipient took the chalice at the same place where the minister was holding it, the minister would not be able to release their grip of the chalice and it would cause much confusion and could even cause the chalice to be dropped. This seems like an obvious trap to avoid, but we personally have had the situation several times when someone has taken the chalice at the same position that I was holding it and I have had to politely ask them to “please could you let go of my hand, as I am stuck.” It is an astounding thing to happen and a worrying moment.
It is completely forbidden to take the chalice by trying to sip the chalice while the minister is still holding the chalice. The chalice must be taken gently into the two hands of the person receiving it and firmly into the hands of the recipient who then raises the chalice to their own lips and takes a small, reverent sip and carefully hands the chalice back to the minister.
The ministers of communion will hold up the host and say “the body of Christ” -
and the minister of the chalice will hold it up and say “the Blood of Christ” as the situation applies. The recipient says in a clear voice: “Amen.” The proper answer is not “yes” or “thanks” or “it is” or “we are” or “cheers” or anything else other than “Amen”.
Communion ministers are not meant to overpersonalise communion by saying “the body of Christ, Jenny” or “the body of Christ, Ted” - In communion we are all one body in Christ coming together, collectively as the body of Christ. Distinctions at that holy moment are unnecessary and unhelpful. In any case, unless one knows the names of every single person in the whole church, including visitors and people who are coming in late, or strangers, then naming some people but not others is exclusionary.
Therefore there is great wisdom in following the exact wording of the ritual, which is for the communion minister to simply say “the Body of Christ”, or “the Blood of Christ.”
The universal answer to both statements is always simply a clear and audible “Amen”
The Common Gesture of Reverence
The Australian bishops have asked that all Catholics adopt a common posture of reverence before receiving Holy Communion.
In Australia, in place of genuflecting or kneeling before or as receiving in communion, the bishops ask that people, while the person in front of them is receiving communion, give a simple bow of the head and then come forward and receive communion without any further bows or kneeling or genuflecting.
The appropriate moment to bow the head is when the person in front of you is receiving Communion.
After bowing, walk fully upright towards the minister with your hands in position for receiving communion and receive Communion without further bowing.
Bowing while standing directly in front of the minister (as they are handing you the host or the chalice) can cause great practical difficulties, as the recipients hands and/or head moves just as the Host or chalice is being given to them.
For example, one often sees a minister handing the host to the communion recipient and trying to place the host onto their extended hands just as they bow their head, (which is too late and should have happened before this time); and their hand moves down and away from the minister just as they are trying to place it in their hand. It looks bad and doesn’t work.
Consuming the Host
It is vital that the Host be consumed immediately upon reception.
Please do not walk away holding the Host.
Ministers will become understandably concerned if someone moves off from the communion line without consuming the Host. This leads to unnecessary confusion or disruption. A person who walks away without consuming the host immediately will likely be asked to consume it immediately. People in line who take the host and look at it curiously and don’t consume the host immediately usually are a red-alert to the priest and the ministers that this person should not be receiving communion and does not appear to know what they are doing or what the meaning of communion is.
Parents and adult carers, please explain to younger children about the difference between receiving communion and receiving a blessing.
This includes ensuring that the children have their hands in the correct position.
Children who have not yet made their communion and who are walking in the communion line should to be reminded, before they come forward, that they need to have their hands in a cross formation across their chest as a sign that they seek a blessing and not communion.
“Receiving a blessing” or receiving communion” are mutually exclusive things, so sometimes a child will come forward for a blessing and then stand waiting to
also receive communion and that is a sign that they don’t fully understand what is meant to be happening. “It is one or the other, not both.”
A Final Note
Communion may be received either in the hand or on the tongue; People are encouraged to receive in the hand. Kneeling is not required. If someone desires to receive on the tongue they r kneel they can, but the bishops strongly recommend a common posture by all the community. They recommend a bow of the head whilst the person in front of you is receiving the host. What matters most is that our actions are reverent, clear, and considerate of those who minister the sacrament.
Thank you for helping ensure that the reception of Holy Communion remains a moment of prayer, dignity, and shared faith for all.
** The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 26”
An ancient medieval practice in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk on the annual Solemnity of the Epiphany. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
20 + C + M + B + 26 *
* “Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar” (the traditional names of the Three Wise Men)
And also representing the prayer: *Christus Mansionem Benedicat
May Christ bless this home.
This means that 2000 years ago, after Christ’s birth, the Wise Men visited, paid homage to the Lord, and were welcomed into the Holy Family’s hospitality. We dedicate the present year, ‘26, of this century to the protection of the Lord.
May the Lord bless this abode.
The letters C+M+B represent Caspar, Balthasar and Melchior, the three Wise Men. CMB is also the initials of the Latin prayer “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling place/ abode/ home.”
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SYNOD 24 - ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE - ACTION PLANS
For in-depth resources please visit the following link:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1taBpy2wR96rMslEbWHpiDI3jaDpS_rzYJ_iqYLQWygw/edit?usp=sharing
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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. ………………..
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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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For more details on safeguarding please visit here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ja2NmPbkoqk5Jw4bfDdZVRwWHAIPQfn7qU5uQZ3oYD8/edit?usp=sharing
Sacred Heart Church and Parish office - (directions and location)
50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. Queensland 4226
(The best entry is the southern entrance off Fairway Drive, nearest to Santa Cruz Boulevard).
map: -
Our parish office location is found here: Please see here for a map with details of the location of the parish office. Please see below for a photo of the Catholic Parish office ……(with the name “Glendalough - Parish Office” written on a sign over the door - Glendalough is pronounced “Glenda-lock” and is named after a famous Irish location where Catholic Saint Kevin lived- one of our schools in the parish is named St Kevin’s in honour that patron saint).
Below is a picture of the Sacred Heart church, which is located on the same grounds (to the left of the parish office)
