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"Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?" (John 6:9)
(Shutterstock ID: stock vector ID: 1743892550 - Christianity, religion, Bible concept. Saturation feeding a crowd of five thousand people with two fish and five loaves by Jesus Christ son of God. New Testament biblical series cartoon illustration. By Drawlab19 )
THE PASTOR'S POST: LOOKING FORWARD, LOOKING BACK
God is speaking loudly to us in these last few years about our care for one another and making sure that we keep the person of Jesus close to us at all times. We are asked to discover new ways of being "church" even during those times we were not able to gather as a congregation.
Over this last year-and-a-half, many people have suffered isolation, or I prefer to call it 'solitude'. There is so much about our nature that is becoming clearer, particularly the way people are relating to one another and trying to reach out in support and finding new, creative ways to connect when the old familiar ways are removed.
We could do no better than to see how Jesus prepared his apostles for the "new world'' they were going to live and work in when he was no longer physically with them. Like us, they had to discover new ways for new times. So he reminded them that they are the ones who have already been instructed as to how best to cope. They had the lessons to help them manage, even though they may have had to let go of some of the securities that had become so familiar.
He said, "You are witnesses to this". Before leaving his disciples, Jesus commissioned them to preach the Gospel to the whole world. It was no longer just about them. They had graduated from his missionary school and are now asked to think beyond themselves and reach out beyond their immediate comforts. Those early days must have surely given the cause for concern. They no doubt felt as inadequate as we sometimes do. In order to help them carry out that mission, he promised to send them a new resource, a new insight, a new way of being disciples - the Holy Spirit. On Pentecost day, he would fulfil that promise.
The task of preaching the Gospel to the world now depends on us. We are Christ's witnesses. It is both a privilege and a daunting task. However, we are told we can rely on the help of the Holy Spirit. But how are we supposed to witness?
There is the witness of words: We witness by professing our faith, firstly to ourselves, reminding us what it is that we believe, particularly in times of uncertainty. This includes studying it, questioning it to see if it stands up to contradictions or contrary opinions, explaining it and, on occasion, being prepared to defend it. Have I ever implored the assistance of the Holy Spirit to guide me when I had no idea how and where to go?
There is the witness of deeds: We all know that actions speak louder than words. "Never recommend anything unless you can provide a sample", said Henry Thoreau, the 19th-century American philosopher. In other words, don't tell me how to cope in this time of the pandemic, show me. Do I add the stress of others' lives by speaking of life's problems, or do I bring light to the darkness of those problems?
There is the witness of one's life: The witness of the Christian life is more powerful than any argument. The witness that the world finds most compelling is that of concern for people and of charity towards the poor, the weak, and those who are suffering. The generosity underlying this attitude and these actions stands in marked contrast to human selfishness. It raises precise questions which lead to God and the Gospel. A commitment to peace, to justice, to human rights, is a witness to the Gospel.
Finally, there is the witness of one's death: This is not a witness asked of many, but the Church has been built on the blood of the martyrs. They are people whose strength of faith and conviction is truly inspiring. When forced to choose, which one of us could say with Thomas à Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury (d.1170) I am ready to die for my Lord that in my blood the Church may obtain liberty and peace.
Jesus has taken a great risk. He is relying on his disciples (and now us) to ensure that his Gospel is preached and lived. He needs us to witness his presence in the world, perhaps more now than ever before as the world asks questions about what is happening to us at this time. To do this we must, like the disciples, spend time in a community of faith and in prayer and be ready to respond to what the Holy Spirit is doing in our lives, and in our community.
Fr Peter Dillon PP.
CATHOLIC LEADER - MONTHLY NEWSPAPER - Print available $4.
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FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday, 6th August at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30pm. All Welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678.
PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES - AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION
Envelopes for the New Financial Year are available for collection from the back of the churches.
We thank all our Parishioners for their continuing support of the Planned Giving Program. Through this we are able to meet our Archdiocesan and Parish Budget commitments and also enable the maintenance and growth of our Parish's mission to ensure we can continue Mass liturgies, pastoral ministries, sacramental programs and various maintenance works.
Please contact the Parish Office via email 'surfers@bne.catholic.net.au' if you require a receipt for this year's contributions, we will email the receipt.
Of course, we have several other ways our parishioners can make their donations - Direct Debit/Credit Card Deduction is becoming more and more popular with our Parishioners as the contributions are paid electronically into the Parish account and the convenience to Pay Wave with their debit/credit card, is available at the entrance of our churches.
If you wish to donate directly into the Parish Planned Giving Account: BSB 064-786
Account 100 013 666 Reference: Your Name
You can also use the Parish Giving App. http:- parishgiving.brisbanecatholic.org.au
For further information, please contact the Parish Office.
In addition to regular giving to the parish, parishioners, when able, can also provide one off gifts in the form of Donations or Bequests. A gift in your will, no matter how big or small, is one way you can personally advance the work or the Parish.
CHECK IN TO MASS
Please check in by mandatory Check In Qld app. We are so pleased with how this is going with your continued cooperation.
Please show our volunteers at the door your before entering the church.
Ask for assistance from our volunteers if you are experiencing difficulty in getting the Qld App onto your phone. If by chance you are not able to get the App because your phone is too old or is not compatible or you don't have a mobile phone, only then are you required to write down your name and contact number please. Please remember that if you are experiencing any symptoms, get a COVID test and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result. Thank you for keeping our parish communities safe.
Masks must be worn again this weekend
THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION - CATHOLIC MENS' GROUP.
The Gold Coast Tweed Circle (357)of the Catenians are offering their Annual Mass for Vocations at St Vincent's Church, Surfers Paradise this Sunday, July 25th at 10AM. The Catenian Association is an international group of Catholic men, comprising 300 circles in 11 countries. Members will be available after Mass to answer any questions from interested members of the congregation. Their secretary Errol Daranjo can be contacted at 0755760019, or 0405728050.
Further information about the Catenians can be obtained online at:
https://www.thecatenians.org.au (for the organisation in Australia), and at https://www.thecatenians.com (for the head office in the UK).
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM
CONFIRMATION
There will be a second opportunity to celebrate Confirmation in October this year, please go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au and complete an online enrolment application to ensure that your child is included in the October group. Use the drop down menu under Sacraments. If your child has been baptised and you wish them to continue their journey of initiation by the celebration and receiving of further sacraments, click on Confirmation (under Sacraments), read the explanation of the sacrament and then scroll down to and click on CHILDREN'S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM (in the blue box). Complete the form and click on submit. Once you have submitted the form, you should receive an automated response to indicate that your application has been received by the parish team. The timing of a more personalised response to your application will vary depending on the sacrament for which you wish to prepare. The timing of responses to Confirmation, First Communion and Reconciliation requests vary according to the time of year. As the children prepare for these sacraments in groups, our Sacramental Coordinator will use the information provided on the completed online forms to email parents approximately two months prior to the celebration of the sacrament. If you feel that you enrolled some time ago and you have not received sufficient information through our parish or school newsletters, please email Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
RECONCILIATION
In the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Reconciliation follows the Sacraments of Initiation, that is, it follows Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion. The Sacramental Team's plan for Reconciliation is to prepare a program similar in style to the Confirmation and First Communion Preparation Programs. This will be a lengthy task so we are unable to provide an exact date for you to expect an email inviting your child to participate.
I do hope that you will hear from our Sacramental Team before the end of the year. In the meantime, please check the parish newsletter regularly (www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au then go to newsletter archives) for any updates. Thank you to all families who have patiently and regularly checked in with our team to find out about the timing of Reconciliation in Surfers Paradise Parish.
Whenever the Sacramental Team completes the work for the Reconciliation Preparation material, our Children's Sacramental Coordinator will email an invitation to participate, to the families of all children who received their First Communion in 2020 or 2021. If you have any further questions, please email our Children's Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY
The inaugural World Day for Grand-parents and the Elderly, which will be commemorated on July 25. Pope Francis announced earlier this year that the day will be marked each year around the feast of Sts Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus.
In his message for the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly, with the theme "I am with you always", Pope Francis said older people, even if "energy is running out", have a "renewed vocation".
"It makes no difference how old you are, whether you still work or not, whether you are alone or have a family, whether you became a grandmother or grandfather at a young age or later, whether you are still independent or need assistance," he wrote.
"Because there is no retirement age from the work of proclaiming the Gospel and handing down traditions to your grandchildren. You just need to set out and undertake something new."
Archbishop Peter A Comensoli, chair of the Bishops Commission for Life, Family and Public Engagement, said parishes, schools, aged care facilities and other Catholic ministries might consider how they can mark the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly.
"I know a lot of schools already have special days for grandparents. Might they be aligned with this global feast day this year, or in the future?" he asked.
"Parishes could celebrate a special Mass or have a special blessing at the end of Masses on the weekend of July 25 for older people. Schools or parishes might think about sending a group to visit a local aged care facility, honouring and acknowledging the immense value of our forebears."
Archbishop Comensoli said there is much that can be learned through such encounters.
"At a time of great challenges through this pandemic, we might look to our elders, neighbours and friends for their encouragement and wisdom in finding pathways through difficult times," he said.
"In honouring them, we honour their lives and journeys, and open up a richness of experience to draw from.
"The World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly gives the Church a chance to more deeply celebrate the role older people have played in forming us as people and as believers."
www.catholic.org.au/grandparents
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -
"There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?"
(John 6:9).
The miracle of the Loaves and Fishes carries two important messages. First, no matter how little we have, we always have enough to share. Second, Christ can take our humble gifts and do great things with them if we are just willing to let Him. Nothing is impossible with God. All of our gifts, big or small, were given to us for a reason. No gift is too small or insignificant!
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
We are in need of volunteers to man the library before and after mass during the weekends. If you are called to help in the library, we shall appreciate it if you can contact Esta Mostert by texting / WhatsApp her on
+61 410542427 or email her: esta@mostertfamily.com
Please text your name, WhatsApp or phone number and / or your email address to her as well as the times that you will be available. Alternatively, write your name on the Library Volunteer list at the back of the church which will be available from Saturday, the 17th July 2021. Ezekiel 2:9 Then I looked, and behold, a hand was extended to me; and lo, a scroll was in it. Source: https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Books
ADULT FAITH ENRICHMENT: REFLECTION & BIBLE STUDY
COMMENCING ON A SUNDAY MORNING AT 10AM
IN THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE
FIRST SESSION 22ND AUGUST 2021
A Journey through the history of Catholicism!
This exciting 20-part (20 hour) DVD series takes you through the major people, places and events that make up the history of the Catholic Church. You will see the glory of the Church founded by Christ and understand where you fit into this Epic story.
Order your Study Set by ringing the Parish Office (55 725 433) between 9am and 12pm weekdays and giving your details – the Study Set will cost $44.99 (no mark up - just the internet advertised cost - freight is on us) and includes everything you need to participate and complete the 20-part study.
Please organise to pay the Parish Office for the Study Set by a direct debit to the Parish account or by coming into the Parish Office to pay - either way arrange with the Parish Office please.
The Study Set will be handed out on the first night (22nd August). If anyone is desperate to be a part of this but cannot afford the $44.99 or able to just afford some of it - please DO NOT let this stop you from participating - we will find a way
This Study Set includes:
Epic Workbook
Epic Timeline Chart
Epic Timeline Bookmark
We, at the Parish, are excited to be able to bring this to you and look forward to both young and old (and in between) participating, as we want to hear you sharing your opinions, your stories, and your faith filled personal relationship with God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - we all learn and grow from each other's input, so looking forward to a diverse group of people from all walks of life.
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CONTINUING OUR JOURNEY WITH ST PAUL
FORTNIGHTLY ON A TUESDAY NIGHT
In the Footsteps of Paul - With Tony Moore
ALL WELCOME: Our next session will be on Tuesday 3rd August at 6pm in the Parish Hospitality Centre or if that is taken for the night then we are in the Parish Office Staff Room
The next video from the 20 Episode series is No 14: "Revivals & Riots at Ephesus" - Paul leaves Corinth and sails across to Ephesus and from there to Jerusalem but he kept thinking about Ephesus - he was anxious to see what had developed there following his preaching of the Good News that Jesus Christ was the Lord - Paul was on a mission - his path was leading him back to Ephesus
Prayer and Reflection on Letters - We have left Thessalonians behind and started on Corinthians -William Barclay, the author of The Letters to the Corinthians - The New Daily Study Bible, has one aim in his study series - 'to convey the results of scholarship to the ordinary reader (you and I) bringing God's word to readers in the language of their own time -the 21st century.
In those days, Corinth was a hotbed of vice, yet it was where some of Paul's greatest work was done, some of the mightiest triumphs of Christianity were won.' Other than Ephesus, Paul stayed longer in Corinth than in any other city, eighteen months. Corinth was the city of the Twin Harbours - on the western side the Gulf of Corinth and the eastern side, the Sardonic Gulf - merchants bringing their wares and goods from and to Asia Minor in the east and from and to Greece, Macedonia and Rome in the west. Paul was able to ply his trade there - making tents and sails for the ships that sailed in and out of these two ports. The isthmus that divided Corinth from Athens had a trackway made of rails of wood smeared with fat where goods and/or small ships were hauled from one harbour to the other (around 4 miles or 6.4 kilometers across but 320 kilometers to go around the dangerous horn). The Corinth Canal today cuts right through this isthmus - bringing together the Adriatic and Aegean Seas. Impressive man-made feat!
Paul's letters to the Corinthians were not collected together until around AD 90. In many churches they were on bits of papyrus and putting them together would have been a problem, so it seems that not all were discovered and some were not arranged in the right order - we're about to delve into a reconstruction of what happened and what letters are out or order - a summary of the letters from both 1 and 2 Corinthians. Don't know about you but this is exciting stuff which the majority of us had not heard of and eagerly await this revelation.
If you are wanting to start with us just give the Parish Office (55 725 433) your email address and turn up on the night. Blessings to all.
Your support is needed to help our Parish to continue valuable pastoral activities and to provide ongoing sustainability. To assist you to support the Parish, you can give via http:- parishgiving.brisbanecatholic.org.au
If you are able to continue to support us, we would be most grateful. For all those who have been making payments via credit card and those who have donated directly into the parish account, we thank you. The pay-wave or tap-and-go machines on the timber stands in our Churches are also a safe and handy way to donate to the Parish. God bless you for your support.
If you would like confirmation of your donation or a receipt emailed to you please contact me at man.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au. To join planned giving, please contact the Parish Office: (07) 5572 5433 (9am–12pm Mon-Fri).
INSPIRING QUOTES: (Some taken from - ..https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Charbel_Makhlouf; .https:- www.inspiringquotes.us /;Complete Quotes and Anecdotes - Tony Castle)
The wisdom of Saint Ignatius of Loyola
"Love is shown more in deeds than in words."
"Act as if everything depended on you; trust as if everything depended on God."
"Teach us to give and not to count the cost."
"If our church is not marked by caring for the poor, the oppressed, the hungry, we are guilty of heresy."
"I wish not merely to be called Christian, but also to be Christian."
"Spiritual infirmities such as tepidity are caused, not only by chills but also by fevers, that is, by excessive zeal."
The wisdom of Saint Charbel Makhlouf
A man who prays, lives out the mystery of existence, and a man who does not pray scarcely exists.
Success in life consists of standing without shame before God.
Their buildings rise, their morality sinks. Their worldly goods increase, their values diminish. Their speeches multiply, their prayers grow scarce.... An edifice based on man may well rise, but it ends up crushing him.
Persevere in prayer without ceasing.. to understand and live according to his will, not to change it.
The Father's will is always for your good.
By your prayers you can bring down the rain of mercy.
Pray in your beds.
Protect and keep your families through prayer and dialog, through mutual understanding and forgiveness, through honesty and faithfulness, and most importantly, through listening. Listen to one another with your ears, eyes, hearts, mouths and with open hands, and keep the roaring of the noise of the world away from your homes because it is like raging storms and violent waves; once it enters the home, it will sweep away everything and disperse everyone. Preserve the warmth of the family, because the warmth of the whole world cannot make up for it.
THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND: "Bread with Dignity"
Love, gentleness and dignity are at the heart of everything.
Our Lord's miracle with the loaves and the fishes is amazing enough. But, HOW he distributes the miraculous loaves and fishes is also PROFOUNDLY important. Our Lord could have had this huge and plentiful supply given out by saying something like: "Okay everyone, line up!! We will hand this out." That is to say, Our Lord could have insisted on handing out the bread and fish like the recipients were just beggars, recipients of charity…. People merely grabbing and clutching at the food. But no!! Our Lord respects each person's dignity. He asks that everyone sits down, in groups…. In little community groups. The food is brought to the people and they eat it, as equals and with all dignity. Truly a second miracle has occurred…..an equally needed miracle. Yes, we have people who are in physical need; and we also have people in our society who are crying out for a sense of dignity, for equality and who do not want to be treated just like a number. We have people still, who cry out for human and respectful interaction and an experience of real and nurturing community.
This weekend's first reading and Gospel are closely connected. They speak of God's compassionate feeding of the people in their times of need.
It is also a reminder of God's desire for us to offer our gifts, resources and talents for the good of others.
We offer these gifts to God, through our care for each other.
The gifts we have, we are given to share.
We are very mindful of the many areas in the world where there are huge numbers of people who do not even have enough of the basics of life: food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, safety and freedom. We are inspired to work to help them, through the caring help of missionary and charitable groups who meet these essential needs. And the ideal is those groups who follow the example of Christ and meet people on the ground, in their own situations.
In the Gospel, it has been noted that Our Lord is very careful to make it clear that his actions, (in feeding the crowd), are not meant to be any kind of "show of power and wonder" – these acts were not intended to win him popularity. In fact, Our Lord shuns popularity and swiftly leaves the scene after the extraordinary event, in order to prevent the popular enthusiasm of the crowd from rising up and avoid the unsavoury situation of people trying to make him an earthly King.
Our Lord' actions are motivated only by compassion and from concern for the real needs of his people. He calls on his disciples, (us too!), to do everything we can, to use all the resources we have available to be "real food for the hungry. And help for those most in need."
It is so reassuring to remember that God is the one who gives us what we need in due season. God has our concerns in his heart. God works to give us what we need, and he calls upon others to assist in the meeting of the real human needs of others. When we are tempted to lose hope or to question, then the words of the Scriptures remind us that God is completely faithful and desires that we are fed. God is generous, but God does not want us to waste this generosity even a crumb of the graces and blessings he gives us.
Our Lord calls us to give -- and keep giving, without counting the cost; without expectation of return. Our Lord promises to transform this heartfelt but humble offering of ours, into things of grace.
There is a beautiful reflection, attributed to Saint Teresa of Kolkata, (which I think was actually written by a man named Kent M. Keith and published in a 1968 College Pamphlet. However, a copy of this reflection was kept on the wall in Mother Teresa's children's home).
It goes like this:
"People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centred;
forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior
motives; be kind anyway.
If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you;
be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others may destroy overnight; create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous;
be happy anyway.
The good you do today will often be forgotten;
do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it may never be enough;
give your best anyway."
The Gospel does not make 'judgement' or 'self-justification' the common bond between us, but rather God makes 'love' and 'goodwill' and 'generosity' as the true bond that unites us. We recognize the presence, action and love of Christ in everyone around us, (so in that sense it is also between us and others) and ultimately it is between us and God. We "love our neighbour" precisely because God's presence is in everyone around us, whether the others recognise it in return, or whether (or not) they recognise the beauty of God's indwelling Spirit in themselves or in their own actions.
The second reading has Saint Paul imploring us, (pleading with us), to "live a life worthy of our vocation.... in humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love,"
I think it is fair to say that Saint Paul would not have needed to plead with us to "bear with each other" if it was already an easy thing to do. It is not easy to follow the way of Our Lord. It does not always come naturally to 'bear with one another in patience and love,' even if it is what we were made for, and destined for. Because, we are being called to live in communion with God and to allow God to transform our humanity into the shining image of God's Divine life and values.
Love, gentleness and dignity are at the heart of everything Our Lord does. Jesus never stops at half measures. Our Lord respects each person's dignity in the miracle of the loaves and fishes.
He asks that everyone sits down, in groups…. In little community groups. The food is brought to the people and they eat it, as equals and with great dignity. Not just handed out as if the recipients were mere beggars.
No one wants to be treated just like a number. Many people are crying out for human and respectful interaction and an experience of a real and nurturing community. Our Lord gives us both nourishment and dignity. Jesus never stops at half measures, and asks us to do the same.
To listen to the whole 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 {References: -Fr Paul W. Kelly; Kent M. Keith. "The Paradoxical Commandments: Finding Personal Meaning in a Crazy World." October 25, 2001." (ISBN-10: 1930722052); + Some ideas are taken from Gustavo Gutierrez, "sharing the word through the liturgical year"; Abbotts Homily, Monastery of Christ in the Desert}
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1497751724-Secovska Polianka, Slovakia. 2019/8/22. The Icon of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes – Feeding the Multitude. The church of Saint Elijah.-By Adam Jan Figel
POPE FRANCIS:
The Action of the Holy Spirit creates "disorder" that actually brings unity.
The Holy Spirit … never tires of being creative! Now, with the new forms of consecrated life, he is truly creative, with the charisms (of the Holy Spirit), it is interesting: he is the Author of diversity but at the same time the Creator of unity. This is the Holy Spirit. And with this diversity of charisms and many things, he makes the unity of the Body of Christ, and also the unity of consecrated life. And this too is a challenge. (Speech to participants in the International Convention of the Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Societies of Apostolic Life, May, 2018)
Let us ask ourselves today: Are we open to God's surprises? Or are we closed and fearful before the newness of the Holy Spirit? (Mass with ecclesial movements, Pentecost 2013)
The Holy Spirit would appear to create disorder in the Church, since he brings the diversity of charisms and gifts; yet all this, by his working, is a great source of wealth. (Mass with the ecclesial movements, Pentecost 2013)
Be open to the surprises of the Spirit. Have the grace of docility to the Spirit, to go along the path that the Lord Jesus wants for each one of us and for the entire Church. (Daily Mass in St. Martha chapel, April, 2016)
The Spirit is the wind pushing us forward, keeping us going, that makes us feel like pilgrims and foreigners and doesn't allow us to get comfortable and become sedentary. (General audience in preparation for Pentecost, May, 2017)
The world needs men and women who are not closed in on themselves, but filled with the Holy Spirit. Closing oneself off from the Holy Spirit means not only a lack of freedom; it is a sin. There are many ways one can close oneself off to the Holy Spirit: by selfishness for one's own gain; by rigid legalism – seen in the attitude of the doctors of the law to whom Jesus referred as 'hypocrites'; by neglect of what Jesus taught; by living the Christian life not as service to others but in the pursuit of personal interests; and in so many other ways. However, the world needs the courage, hope, faith, and perseverance of Christ's followers. The world needs the fruits, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as St. Paul lists them: 'love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.' The gift of the Holy Spirit has been bestowed upon the Church and upon each one of us, so that we may live lives of genuine faith and active charity, that we may sow the seeds of reconciliation and peace. (Pope Francis - Pentecost homily, 2015)
(source: https://www.praytellblog.com/index.php/2018/05/20/pentecost-the-holy-spirit-is-a-disaster-pope-francis)
(Image shutterstock licensed image ID: 1358932310 -Pope Francis,- By GYG Studio )
FAITH AND WORSHIP - What Is Being Clothed in Christ?
By Dr. Nicholas J. Schaser -(July 12, 2021)
In his letter to the Galatians, Paul states, "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have been clothed in Christ" (Galatians 3:27). Though readers might assume that being "clothed" (ἐνεδύσασθε; enedúsasthe) in the Messiah is just an elegant metaphor, the apostle has something more concrete in mind. The language draws on instances in Israel's Scriptures when people are "clothed" with the Spirit of the Lord and empowered to speak or act for God. According to Paul, being clothed in Christ produces power to live in accordance with heavenly purposes, and binds believers to God and each other.
When the ancient Israelites encountered God's Spirit, the biblical authors describe individuals being dressed in divine attire. In the time of the judges, for instance, God visits Gideon before he goes into battle: "The Spirit of the Lord clothed (לבשׁה; lavshah) Gideon, and he sounded the trumpet" (Judges 6:34). In the ancient Greek rendering of this verse in the Septuagint, the translator uses the same word that Paul does for being "clothed" (ἐνδύω) in Jesus. Similarly, in David's day, one of his mighty men receives God's Spirit before he joins the king's military entourage: "The Spirit clothed (לבשׁה/ἐνέδυσε) Amasai… and he said, 'We are yours, David, and with you, son of Jesse. Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers. For your God helps you'" (1 Chronicles 12:18). In these cases, being clothed in the Spirit was to be equipped for battle, which is why Ephesians repurposes the imagery to describe defense against evil: "Put on (ἐνδύσασθε; endúsasthe) the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil" (6:11).
Being clothed in the Spirit could also empower speakers to proclaim a word from God. Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, rebuked the leaders of Judah after being outfitted by heaven: "The Spirit of God clothed (לבשׁה/ἐνέδυσεν) Zechariah… and he stood above the people and said to them, 'Thus says the Lord: Why do you break the commandments of the Lord, so that you cannot prosper?" (2 Chronicles 24:20). Zechariah's pneumatic clothing allowed him to speak for God; the prophet and the Lord were of one mind to carry out the divine will. The Spirit's arrival creates a change in the clothed people so that they transform into representatives for God. This is what Paul means when he says that believers have been "clothed" in Christ so that they are "all one in Messiah Jesus" (Gal 3:28). In noting that, in Christ, "there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, no male and female" (3:28), the apostle does not describe a fleshly change in individuals so that their ethnicity or gender is no longer existent or relevant. Instead, Paul declares that anyone clothed in Christ has become one with the Messiah and one another; no matter one's ethnicity, gender, or social standing, God's Spirit has been poured out equally on all.
(SOURCE: https://weekly.israelbiblecenter.com/what-is-being-clothed-in-christ/)
[IMAGE: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 667028644. TIBERIAS, KIBBUTZ KVUTZAT KINNERET, ISRAEL - APRIL, 2014: Three man standing in the river: Baptism ceremony (christening) in the Jordan River (Yardenit). By Alina Muratova)]
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
Please note that people entering the church are now required to scan the Check In Qld app - Queensland Government, which will register you as attending that mass time.
Please load on your phone the QLD Check In App - this will allow entry into a church.
MASKS MUST BE WORN AGAIN THIS WEEKEND
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 6th August at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30pm. All Welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678.
SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS
Visit our Parish Shops for all your Sacramental and Religious requirements. We are happy to order specific goods for you, just leave your name and telephone number and description of goods required with the friendly ladies at the shops.
PARISH ART AND CRAFT GROUP
Our Art and Craft Group is up and running, and is alive and well! We meet in the Parish Hospitality Centre, next to Sacred Heart Church in Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, each Wednesday from 9am to 12noon. Our activities include Art (water-colour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink drawings etc), as well as various kinds of Craft work (knitting, embroidery, crocheting, card making, sewing) and making of Rosary Beads that are later sent on to the Missions. We are open to all other activities that individuals have an interest in. We come together to enjoy each other's company in a relaxed environment. New members, both men and women, are most welcome to join. For further information please contact John on 0412 759 205 or the Parish Office on 5572 5433 Monday to Friday 9am to 12noon.
CCR - GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION. PRAISE, WORSHIP, EUCHARIST
St Stephen's Cathedral. 11am, Saturday 7 August, 2021. Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Mark Coleridge. Music Ministry by Emmanuel Worship. Hosted by Charis Connect comprising Catholic Charismatic Renewal Prayer Groups, Communities and Ministries. Bookings for this event are essential: register at www.trybooking.com/BSBIF - Enquiries: Miriam secretary@ccrbrisbane.org.au , Audrey 0435558390, Len 0421977849. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise…
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB
Meets at the Sacred Heart - Parish Hospitality Centre, Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters.
Playing Bridge keeps your brain active and increases your social network! So why not give us a try?
Learn to play Bridge at "Our Friendly Club" - Free Lesson. "Introduction to Bridge"
Easy to learn format, no previous card playing experience necessary. All are welcome.
For more information and to enrol, Please phone: Cheryl 5538 8821 or Mob 0417 772 701
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE
Come join us for our friendly class in the Parish Hospitality Centre next to the Parish Office. Classes run every Tuesday at 10:45am. Learn to relax, yet gain greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness and concentration, all while increasing your breath support and general wellbeing. Ruth is an IYTA accredited instructor with wide experience and runs a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session costing $10 (new attendees need to arrive by 10.30am to prepare adequately for class). For more information call Ruth on 0421338110.
WEEKLY Q
We thought we would bring a little joy into your lives in these difficult times, and perhaps bring out the inner sleuth in you.
- a weekly Trivia Q - the answer for which you will find in past Parish Newsletters which can be accessed via the website Newsletter Archive – Surfers Paradise Parish
- the first person to email the correct answer to pwkelly68@gmail.com will have their name documented and at the end of the year the one with the most correct (first in) answers will win a 'surprise!!'
Question 1. Father Paul Kelly informs us that he took his first steps on the day that Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon.
How many years, months and days old would Fr Paul have been on that day?
(Including the day that he took his first giant leap (step) for mankind)
CARER GATEWAY - CONNECTING CARERS TO SUPPORT SERVICES
Emotional help and support available for carers Getting help early can make a big
difference to a carer's life by helping to reduce emotional and physical strain and improving their overall health and wellbeing. Supports and services are free for carers through Carer Gateway and are
designed to help if you are:
• feeling stressed
• experiencing anxiety
• have low moods
• find it difficult to manage feelings.
Services such as counselling, peer support, and skills courses are available to help you in your caring role. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au or call 1800 422 737, Mon-Fri between 8am and 5pm local time.
FAN THE FLAME PLENARY COUNCIL REFLECTION
Towards Plenary Assembly One October 2021
'Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and gave them out to all who were sitting ready'
John 6:1-15
"Grace moves God's people to ask questions grounded in the call we received at Baptism: how do we better nourish, accompany, give witness, support, invite, welcome, engage and be present to others, such that we all grow in holiness?"
(Prayerful and Eucharistic – Discernment Paper p. 6)
www.plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/fantheflame/
JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE -
Position Vacant – Booval Parish
Applications are open for a position at the Booval Parish. A person with excellent administration and secretarial skills is required for a part time 3-year contract position of Parish Secretary for 20 hours per week, 5 hours on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website- https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/333164/parish-secretary-booval
Closing date – 19 August 2021
Position Vacant – Administration Assistant - Acacia Ridge Parish
Applications are open for the above position at the Acacia Ridge Parish. The position is a casual role with the possibility of it becoming full time and will begin ASAP. For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers.
Applications close: Sunday 8 August 2021
POSITION VACANT – Lutwyche Catholic Parish
Applications are open for a position at the Lutwyche Catholic Parish. A person with excellent administration and secretarial skills is required for a casual position of Administration Assistant Monday & Friday working 8.30am to 12.30pm, 4 hours each day.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities. Job closes 30 July 2021
Position Vacant – Youth Coordinator, Ipswich Catholic Community
Applications are open for a position at the Ipswich Catholic Community. A person who is able to evangelise young people by connecting them with the person of Christ and the Church through involvement in the Parish community is required for a part time position of Youth Coordinator for 20 hours per week. Weekend and evening work will be required.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers. Closes July 30.
LOCAL SAINT VINCENT de PAUL WINTER APPEAL
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the local Saint Vincent de Paul Annual Winter Appeal. All donations over $2 are 100% tax deductible. Thank you for your support.
Craig McMahon. Conference President - Surfers Paradise
CATHOLIC CHURCH OPPOSITION TO VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING LAW
(The proposed law to allow voluntary assisted dying is expected to be debated by Queensland's Parliament in September 2021).
"Legislation to allow access to voluntary assisted dying in Queensland was introduced in Parliament on the 25 May,- the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 – this is to be scrutinised by the parliamentary Health and Environment Committee, and is to go through further public consultation. The parliamentary Health and Environment Committee has only a short time now to undertake scrutiny of the Bill and members of the public and stakeholders will have an opportunity to provide submissions. Submissions can be sent through via the following government page. Click Here - Also please see the excellent resources and information on this important topic here - Catholic church resources on Euthanasia. Also, A Call to Action against Voluntary Assisted Dying - anti-VAD
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: John Davis, Peter Cotton, Bobby Courtney, Lisa Mangan, Doreen Slater, Christina Hendriksen, Diane Land, Robyn Skein, Sharyn Lucas, Kye Oh, Irene Carney, Michael James, Bill Gilmore, Olga Hamshari, Roy Ferraro, Margaret Haerse, Rosalind Lee, Milka Barac, Mary Ashton, Kurt Hillesheim, Bill Goodrem, Rodney & Norma McLennan, Lois & Doug Wood, Duncan Dawson, Sam Maxwell, William Franklin, Gerry Stoffels (Capetown, SA), Maria Mihalic, Annie Scicluna, Anne Logan, Dymphna Hogg, Margaret & Louise Thompson, Patricia Moor, Helen Bohringer, Peter O'Brien, Angela Duvnjak, Rachel Raines, Savannah Ayoub, Gus Reeves, Baby Maeve Lombard, Kathy Kiely, Rosslyn Wallis, Arthur Haddad, Jean Di Benedetto, Michael & Denise Tracey, Joanne Mooney, Joanne Parkes, Michelle MacDonald, John & Molly Robinson, Mary Kerr. And all suffering from Covid-19.
RECENTLY DECEASED: Marcia Allman, Kathleen Vlasic, Ermis (Ernie) Moro, James Cunningham, Elaine Hannah Cotter, Nair Mercanti Richard, Joseph Shen (Jiasheng Shen), John Lenehan, Elaine Cotter, Albert Lewis (Lew) Bush, Jill Cecelia O'Brien, Maureen Patricia O'Connor, George Higgs, Greg Sharah, Dave Binder USA, Grace Cooper UK, Leah Maher, Bill Wall, Jill Masters, Adam Minisini, Anthony Bennett, Bernard David, Lynette Lesley Larking, Patricia Tansey, Paul Conmy.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Vivienne Marie Miau, Mal Condon, Dr Rogerson Bullen, Patrick McKenzie, V.F Joseph, Joyce Farrugia, Fay Virtue (nee Tierney) Tyrril, Salvatore Di Pietro, Elizabeth Josephine Gagiero, Valda Martin, Raphael (Ray) Desira, Tera Phillip,, Ronald (Ron) Mooney, William Cecil (Bill) Wall, Vittoria Ulliana, Daniel Charles (Dan) Quinn, Eileen Scharenguivel, Maurie Taafe, Marie Doreen Emslie, Giuseppe Joe Alba, Patrick Kelly, Fr Bill Taylor Cm, Marjorie Veronica Bates, William John (Bill) Burroughs, Denis Frederick Fletcher.
You can visit the Stay Connected page on our website to find an extensive list of information and resources.
Liturgy for you at Home (produced by SPP): https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Weekly Homily (produced by SPP): https:- homilycatholic.blogspot.com
Surfers Paradise Parish Facebook: https:- www.facebook.com/surferscatholic/
Breaking Parish News (SPP Blog): https:- news-parish.blogspot.com/
Acknowledgement of Country
We respectfully acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Peoples of this country, and especially acknowledge the traditional owners on whose lands we live and work throughout the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane. And here in this parish of Surfers Paradise, we particularly acknowledge and pay our respects to the Kombumerri clan of the Yugambeh people of the Gold Coast. We also acknowledge Elders, past and present and pay tribute to those who have contributed to the social, economic, cultural, political and spiritual life of our community. This acknowledgement affirms our commitment to social justice and the importance of healing and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Commitment To Child And Vulnerable Adult Safety
"The Archdiocese of Brisbane holds that children and vulnerable adults are a gift from God with an intrinsic right to dignity of life, respect and security from physical and emotional harm. They are to be treasured, nurtured and protected from any harm." As a Parish Community, we pray for a change of heart, that we respond to our grief by reaching out to one another in truth and love.
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