Tuesday 31 August 2021

URGENT ACTION TO PROTECT VULNERABLE QUEENSLANDERS AGAINST EUTHANASIA - From Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Brisbane -

 URGENT ACTION TO PROTECT VULNERABLE QUEENSLANDERS AGAINST EUTHANASIA

From Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Brisbane -

The Queensland Parliament, in the next few weeks, will be debating and voting on controversial laws to make euthanasia and assisted suicide legal in the state.

These laws, if passed, will overturn foundational principles that have underpinned our medical and legal systems for centuries – the ethic of ‘do no harm’ and the prohibition on killing. We need to do all we can to protect Queenslanders rather than assist them to die. Euthanasia and assisted suicide laws undermine the fundamental relationship of trust that should exist between a patient and their doctor. They have the potential to put vulnerable Queenslanders who are elderly or terminally ill at risk of wrongful death, including placing pressure on them to take their own lives so as not to be a ‘burden’ on their family and friends. We have seen this occur in countries overseas which have gone down this path.

I am asking you to take two important steps today.

First, I ask you to sign this petition to the Queensland Parliament, asking them to reject these euthanasia and assisted suicide laws. The petition is sponsored by HOPE, a single-issue coalition of groups who oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Petition link: https://www.noeuthanasia.org.au/petition_2108_qld

Second, I ask you to email your Queensland State Member of Parliament and urge them to oppose the introduction of these laws.

Send an email to your MP link: https://www.noeuthanasia.org.au/petition_2105_ocp_qld

This matter is now urgent.

Vulnerable sick and elderly people in Queensland need your help to ensure these lethal laws are not passed in this state. I urge you to sign the petition and email your MP today, and ask friends and family to do the same.

As always in the Lord,


Archbishop Mark Coleridge


ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE

https://www.noeuthanasia.org.au/petition_2105_ocp_qld?fbclid=IwAR1GdXWnxobxoRXnhT4JQ9h_kBXjb_h2bBZC26jmxHH1hruv4RLIdw-rhBY




Friday 27 August 2021

SPCP_E-newsletter - Sunday, August 29, 2021 -Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B

PDF version of this parish newsletter here:

Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish E-Newsletter

This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians of this region. 

Parish Office: (07) 5572 5433 (9am – 12pm Mon-Fri) | Mass Times: (07) 5595 8466

Email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au | Website: www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au 

Emergencies: Priest contactable via office phone (after hours follow the menu prompts)

50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland, 4226

Check-In Qld app - Queensland Government 

 

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B

 

Readings for Sunday, August 29, 2021 - Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  

FIRST READING: Deut 4: 1-2, 6-8

Ps: Ps 15: 2-3a, 3b-4a, 4b-5 "The just will live in the presence of the Lord."

SECOND READING: Jas 1: 17-18, 21b-22, 27

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (James 1: 18): Alleluia, alleluia! The Father gave us birth by his message of truth. That we might be as the first fruits of his creation.

GOSPEL: Mark 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23

 

"This people honours me with their lips,

    but their hearts are far from me"  (Mark 7: 6)

 

(Shutterstock licensed Image  ID:130206347  - ROUEN - FEBRUARY 10: Jesus kissed by Judas Iscariot in the Garden of Gethsemane, on a stained glass in the cathedral of Rouen, France, on February 10, 2013. By jorisvo )

 

PARISH NEWS UPDATE:  

Hopefully over the last week, everyone has had a chance to prayerfully consider donating towards the ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN. Our parish has supported the Campaign since it began in 2013. 

 

The Campaign involves every parish across our Archdiocese, and is an opportunity for us to come together to expand the Church's capacity to care.

Funds raised will support ministries that directly impact this parish:

training future priests, 

caring for elderly priests when they become frail and unwell, 

helping struggling families access a Catholic education and 

caring for those suffering physically and emotionally in our local community.   

This is such a worthy series of projects to support.  Over the past years, our parish has given generously, together we have made a lasting impact on the lives of so many people in our community.  Thank you for your generosity and for making sure our Church is here to help in times of need.

Thanks to everyone who was able to prayerfully consider donating to the annual Archdiocesan fundraising campaign in the major areas of its mission. The ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN supports Catholic Social Response including Centacare Services, Support of disadvantaged school students, Formation of Seminarians and Support of Retired and sick priests.

 

If you missed out - here is the link to send your donation support -  https://catholicfoundation.org.au/donate-catholic-church/ 

Or envelopes are available at the back of the churches.

 

PASTOR'S POST (A GEM FROM OUR ARCHIVES - AS FR PETER RECOVERS - AND HE IS DOING VERY WELL AND THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS)

 

PRAYER FOR OLD AGE: 

Lord, Thou knowest better than I myself that I am growing older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody's affairs. Make me thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all; but Thou knowest, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end. Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; give me wings to get to the point. Seal my lips on my aches and pains; they are increasing, and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by. I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a lessening cock-sureness when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others. Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken. Keep me reasonably sweet, for a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil. Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places and talents in unexpected people; and give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so. Amen.

Fr Peter Dillon. PP

 

 

 

We congratulate the Timofte, Graudins, Cassimatis  families whose children Eve Nadia, Luka Anders and Zander Banks will be baptised in our Parish this weekend. 

 

Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey.

 

CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN - ANNUAL ARCHDIOCESAN COLLECTION - FROM LAST WEEKEND

TO DONATE ONLINE TO THE ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN - PLEASE CLICK HERE

 

The Annual Golden Wedding Anniversary Mass 

Will be held on Saturday 25 September 2021 @ 11.30am.Due to the current COVID situation, at the  moment, we would appreciate it if you could advertise the date and time, however, as everything is still very tenuous, we won't open up the bookings until Monday 13 September. 

 

DATE CLAIMER - GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS

The Annual Golden Wedding Anniversary Mass will be celebrated with Archbishop Mark Coleridge on Saturday 25th September commencing at 11.30am.  The invitation is extended to family and friends.  Unfortunately, due to the COVID restrictions, refreshments following the Mass will not be offered.   Bookings will be available from Monday 13 September and can be made via the following link:   https://goldenweddinganniversarymass.eventbrite.com.au or telephone the Cathedral office on 07 3324 3030. Many thanks for your support.

 

 

 

 

Please see the invitation on the next page…….

 

 

FUNERAL MASS for Justin King - AT WALCHA- New South Wales  :

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG0mXSj1uiQ 

 

 

Funeral Mass at Stella Maris – Broadbeach Church Mass for Justin 

http://heritagebrothers.com.au/wp/live-streaming/client/?nid=69f1571f-45b2-481a-b39f-87648fc23cb3 

 

 

For permanent download to your computer (file is large) 

Audio-visual slide presentation -   

https://vod.digitaltide.com.au/df23e782-4f77-43d3-aee2-a70f0aa71999/recording.mp4  

 

 

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.

 

ADULT FAITH ENRICHMENT: REFLECTION & BIBLE STUDY

Coming to you on ZOOM (as well as in person at the Parish Hospitality Centre) ring 0409 486 326 

if you are wanting to hook up from your home to join, we will assist you to be able to do this - otherwise if you are already familiar with how to do this 

access to the ZOOM Meeting is ID 743 836 7833

 

NEXT SESSION - SUNDAY MORNING 29TH AUGUST 2021 

10AM TO 11:30AM IN THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE OR ON ZOOM 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This exciting 20-part (20 hours) 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.

You will study:

  • The major people, places, and events of the past two thousand years in Church history.

  • Learn the twelve time periods of Church history

  • Grasp the true story of the Crusades

  • Recognise the rationale for the medieval inquisitors and the Spanish inquisition

  • See the revolutionary character of the Protestant Reformation

  • Understand the real story of the confrontation between Galileo and the Church

  • Discover the massive persecution of Christians in the twentieth century

  • Discern the workings of the Holy Spirit throughout Church history

  • …………………….

We have at least one study set available (but can order more if need be) so come along to the next session, you are most welcome. 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. 

  If anyone is desperate to be a part of this but cannot afford the $44.99 or is able to just afford some of it - please DO NOT let this stop you - we are very happy to have you participate.

FOR YOUNG AND NOT SO YOUNG AND INBETWEEN 

 

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM

CONFIRMATION 

Confirmation Preparation begins at the end of August.

Each family that has completed an online application for their child/ren to enrol in Preparation for Confirmation on October 15, 2021, should have received an email from our Parish Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson. These emails were sent in the first week of August. If you didn't receive an email, or you know of someone who wishes their child to be included, please encourage them to complete an enrolment application. 

 

Confirmation enrolments have now closed for this year's program. 

www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au  (see the drop-down menu under Sacraments and 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. 

Parents who have enrolled prior to the 20th of August, are required to attend an introductory meeting at Sacred Heart Church on either Monday, August 30 at 5:30 pm or Tuesday, August 31 at 7:00 pm. 

 

 

FIRST COMMUNION

105 Surfers Paradise Parish children celebrated their First Holy Communion on May 30 and June 6, 2021. For your child to be included in next year's preparation group, please go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au  and complete an online enrolment application. Please use the drop-down menu under Sacraments and click on First Holy Communion (under Sacraments). Then scroll down to and click on CHILDREN'S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM (in the blue box).

 

RECONCILIATION

In the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Reconciliation follows the Sacraments of Initiation. That is, Reconciliation, also known as Penance, follows Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion. The Surfers Paradise 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, we are unable to provide an exact starting date, but we urge all parents and caregivers to continue to check our newsletter for updates.  

 

STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -   22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

"Be doers of the word and not hearers only…"  James 1:22

 It's easy to understand the definition of stewardship – living a grateful and generous life.  The hard part is doing it!  How do your actions reflect God's word?  Do you share your time in prayer with God?   Do you use your talent to help those in need?  Are you generous with your financial resources?  If not, what are you waiting for?

The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.

 

 

TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - LISTENING TO HEAR  

"Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply," says leadership guru Stephen Covey. When we fail to listen, we miss the messages necessary for growth in ourselves and others. Listening builds a well of wisdom that helps the listener and the speaker get to know themselves better. "Listening is a form of spiritual hospitality," says Henri Nouwen, and Pope Francis calls listening as a form of "self-sacrifice" as we put another person above ourselves and "share questions and doubts," God commanded Jesus' disciples to listen to him. We are called to do the same.

{Mark 9:2-10 (614). "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him."}

SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY  -  HTTP:- www.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe

 

The Parish Library 2021 - Are you called to help in the library?

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. 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

 

PARISH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Your support is needed to help our Parish 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 (9 am–12 pm Mon-Fri).

 

INSPIRING QUOTES:  (Some taken from -  Complete Quotes and Anecdotes - Tony Castle, and various sources)

  • Pope Saint Gregory (I) the Great

    • "We make Idols of our concepts, but Wisdom is born of wonder"   

    • "There are some so restless that when they are free from labour, they labour all the more, because the leisure they have for thought, the worse interior turmoil they have to bear."

    • "No one does more harm in the Church than he who has the title or rank of holiness and acts perversely."

    • "The sacred Scriptures grow with the one who reads them."

    • "For it is no doubt impossible to eradicate everything at once from their obstinate minds,

    • because he who endeavours to reach the highest place rises by degrees or steps and not by leaps."

    • "Those who do not speak the words of God with humility must be advised that when they apply medicine to the sick, they must first inspect the poison of their own infection, or else by attempting to heal others, they kill themselves."

    • "Moreover, because the slothful mind is typically brought to its downfall gradually when we fail to control our speech, we move on to more harsh words. Thus, at first, we are happy to speak of others kindly; afterwards, we begin to pick at the lives of those of whom we speak, and finally, our tongues break into open slander against them."

    • "From his younger years, he always had the mind of an old man; for his age was inferior to his virtue. All vain pleasure he despised, and though he was in the world, and might freely have enjoyed such commodities as it yields, yet he esteemed it and its vanities as nothing." ― Gregory the Great, Life And Miracles Of St. Benedict

    • "The spiritual director should not reduce his attention to the internal life because of external occupations, nor should he relinquish his care for external matters because of his anxiety for the internal life."

    • "Necessity demands that one should carefully examine who it is that comes to the position of spiritual authority; and coming solemnly to this point, how he should live; and living well, how he should teach; and teaching rightly, with what kind of self-examination he should learn of his own weakness."

    • "And so there are some, as we have said, enriched with great gifts, who, while they are ardent for the studies of contemplation only, shrink from serving to their neighbour's benefit by preaching; they love a secret place of quiet, they long for a retreat for speculation. With respect to which conduct, they are, if strictly judged, undoubtedly guilty in proportion to the greatness of the gifts whereby they might have been publicly useful. For with what disposition of mind does one who might be conspicuous in profiting his neighbours prefer his own privacy to the advantage of others, when the Only-begotten of the supreme Father Himself came forth from the bosom of the Father into the midst of us all, that He might profit many?"

(Image -   Shutterstock licensed image ID: 1197203614 -Stabroek, Belgium - June 27, 2015: Stained glass window depicting Saint Gregory the Great or Pope Gregory I, pope from 590 to 604, in the Church of Stabroek, Belgium. By "jorisvo")  

 

THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND:  ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS

This weekend's readings take a very practical angle on the meaning of discipleship. We are called to take special care to be just, honest, and charitable toward everyone. What a different tone the world would take if everyone took that angle.

 

As Christians, the proper application of our religious beliefs leads to very important practical consequences for our lives and actions. The readings this weekend send a powerful message: What is the point of calling ourselves "Disciples of Christ and servants of God" (in other words: "Christians"), unless our practical actions REFLECT justice, SHOW charity, really put forgiveness into action and SHOW loving/practical acts of kindness (that God asks us to show to one another). 

 

'True and untarnished religion is this: acting justly, helping the poor, the widow and the orphan.' - In fact, helping all those who are most in need. Jesus warns his critics that if their religion goes no further than blind observation of symbolic rituals, whilst at the same time not living the message of practical love, kindness, and fairness, it will do no good whatsoever. The sacraments SHOW, AND POINT TO, AND STRENGTHEN God's compassion and love abiding within us – This is the nature and purpose of Christ's sacraments - They convey to us, in a real, touchable way, Christ, who is love, mercy, justice and compassion. 

 

"The value of a person's good works is not based on their number and excellence," says Saint John of the Cross, "but on the love of God within them, which prompts the person to do these things in the first place." [Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)]  "Love, justice, and charity are the more key indicators of authentic discipleship than mere outward observances of one's rituals. Ideally, the two go together and reinforce and nurture each other." 

 

I had often understood the first reading to mean, you must observe each and every law and commandment that God gives (which is certainly true), but a closer inspection of this text shows that there is more to be found here….. It also says: "You must add nothing to what I command you, ……." - That is, you must not ADD to God's laws

 

It is clear from the Gospel that by the time of Jesus, people had indeed started adding to God's law and loading people down with unnecessary burdens and difficult observances that, for most people, were impractical and actually impossible to achieve. So, living in God's favour became something exclusive, and reserved only for a lucky minority. The large majority of people were too busy just keeping alive, and dealing with the messy demands of everyday life to be able to keep every single rule or ritual that they were being burdened with. And if they were unable to keep these rules, they were not considered righteous or good. "Holiness" and "peace" became rare commodities, which were now well beyond the reach of most people. That was never God's plan!

 

Keeping the commandments of the Lord is meant to "demonstrate wisdom and understanding." ((Deuteronomy 4:1-2. 6-8). This starts to make things clearer: The whole point of God's law was that it was given to people for their welfare and growth; so that people could deeply live and reflect the values and priorities of God in their actions and attitudes.

 

I particularly like scripture passages that expressly NAME the virtues and qualities of the Christian life. As you name them, you can feel a deep stirring desire to deepen those virtues within your heart. It is as if those values and virtues start to take a deeper hold in our souls as we reflect upon them. 

 

The Psalm this weekend goes on to explain in detail:

The just will live in the presence of the Lord BY MEANS OF …….

- Walking in the ways of blamelessness,

- Acting with justice,

- Speaking honestly,

- Avoiding wrongdoing,

- Not gossiping or slandering others,

- Honouring the Lord,

- Keeping our promises,

- Not "ripping-off" people,

- Not allowing oneself to be "bought off" from their principles; not "selling out."

 

The Second Reading (James 1:17-18. 21-22. 27) confirms this practical advice: and that we should always aim to "do what the word tells you, and not just listen to it and deceive yourselves." It is a reminder that we can easily deceive ourselves about our true motives and intentions. But we should be on guard against such self-justifications that can arise in our hearts covertly.  Not merely us saying "I am doing this for the good of others and I have no self-serving motives in my actions." But rather, The true test of "pure, unspoiled religion," is "coming to the help of people who are in need, and distancing oneself from the values in the world that are not consistent with the gospel."

 

Finally, in the gospel, Jesus warns us about people who "honour God with only lip-service, and all the while their hearts are actually far from God." Our Lord asks us to look inside ourselves and see the things that distort our faithfulness. Things like - lust, murder, adultery, avarice, malice, deceit, indecency, envy, slander, pride, folly. These are the inner movements of the heart and they can be, (and need to be), crowded out by the positive values, graces and virtues of God: Namely, faithfulness, purity, reverence, respect, detachment from material things, love, honesty, appreciation, affirmation, self-sacrifice, and so on. The virtues of the gospel build us up and crowd out anything that is not consistent with the gospel. (There is no room for the negative qualities because God has filled us with good values). 

 

Christianity is not primarily a set of doctrines and Laws…. Christianity is a Person (Jesus), and a relationship with that person – Christ, who is THE revelation of God and the perfection of the Law. 

 

Christianity is a relationship, not a concept or a philosophy or merely a set of rules…. And whenever it is turned into mere concepts or only a set of rules or philosophies, it can get disconnected from the person and values of Jesus. Naturally, there are indeed Rules and Doctrines and Dogmas in Christianity. There certainly are. But all of them serve to point us to Christ who is THE ONE Rule, The ONE Word. 

 

Jesus was struggling valiantly against legalism. The lawmakers and law keepers seemed to be more interested in what people could not do, rather than focusing on what they could be doing in response to life's real problems. It would be equivalent to a person saying: "I have kept all ten commandments. Wherever it said.. "thou shalt not"… I "did not!!"… That is all very well, God might reply, but "you actually did not do anything else either!!!! " - Surely our Christian faith is also about positive acts as well as refraining from negative ones. 

 

The lawmakers in Jesus time focused too much on appearances….. and outward actions, whilst ignoring the inner realities of their terrible attitudes and hypocrisy….. They were focusing more on what one should refrain from doing rather than encouraging inner growth and nurturing constructive attitudes and loving responses towards others…….There is a certain safety in refraining from doing things, and avoiding things………

 

Jesus corrected that error….

Jesus is shown positively living his message, by his actions -  Christianity is a verb, not a NOUN!  As we see by Our Lord going through life… loving, sharing, forgiving, healing, including, forgiving, uplifting, unburdening, feeding, encouraging, and … risking everything. Giving absolutely everything in his desire to address every genuine human need.

 

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} 

 

{Shutterstock Licensed Image Credit:   stock vector ID:  721701574 -SAN GIMIGNANO, ITALY - JULY 11, 2017: Judas receives thirty pieces of silver to betray Jesus. Fresco in the Collegiata of San Gimignano, Italy. By jorisvo}

 

POPE FRANCIS                                                               

VATICAN CITY, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Pope Francis issued an appeal on Wednesday urging people to get inoculated against COVID-19, saying the vaccines could bring an end to the pandemic, but needed to be taken by everyone.

 

"Thanks to God's grace and to the work of many, we now have vaccines to protect us from COVID-19," the pope said in a video message made on behalf of the nonprofit U.S. group the Ad Council and the public health coalition COVID Collaborative.

 

"They grant us the hope of ending the pandemic, but only if they are available to all and if we work together."

 

Vaccines are widely available in mainly wealthier nations, but mistrust and hesitancy over the newly developed shots have meant that many people are refusing to take them, leaving them especially vulnerable as the Delta variant spreads. By contrast, poorer nations still do not have access to large-scale vaccine supplies.

 

Medical experts have warned that ever-more dangerous variants might develop if the virus is allowed to circulate in large pools of non-vaccinated people.

 

Pope Francis was himself vaccinated in March, saying at the time that it was an ethical obligation.

 

"Vaccination is a simple but profound way of promoting the common good and caring for each other, especially the most vulnerable. I pray to God that everyone may contribute their own small grain of sand, their own small gesture of love," the pope said in his latest video message.

 

The Ad Council and COVID Collaborative launched vaccine public service announcements to the U.S. public in January across television, websites and social media.

 

In a statement, the Ad Council said the pope's message represented its first campaign designed for a global audience.

 

Also, on the ethics of receiving the vaccine, please see The Official Vatican Website - https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20201221_nota-vaccini-anticovid_en.html 

 

(source:  https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/pope-francis-urges-everyone-get-covid-19-vaccines-good-all-2021-08-18/ Reporting by Crispian Balmer Editing by Marguerita Choy)

(Image - )

 

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 

Sacred Heart 

250 max capacity

Saturday Night - 5 pm 

  • (Maronite Mass 6:30 pm, Saturday Night). 

*Note First Saturday of the month morning Mass 9 am (Next: 4th September) 

Sunday - 9 am & 6 pm

  • (Polish Mass 12:30 pm  Sunday)

  • (Italian Mass 4 pm Sunday)

Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 am 

St Vincent's

150 max capacity

Sunday - 8 am & 10 am 

  • (Hispanic Mass – 5.30 pm on 1st and 3rd Sundays)

Extra parking is available only metres from St Vincent's Church, King's Car Park, entry via Beach Road

Stella Maris 

100 max capacity 

Saturday Night - 5 pm 

Sunday - 7 am 

Please note: Numbers allowed in each Church are based on social distancing restrictions, and the Archbishop has continued to exempt everyone from the obligation to attend Sunday mass during restrictions.

Please remember that as per restrictions we are still expected to check in for mass, maintain a social distance of 1 person per 2 square metres,  and to receive Holy Communion in the hand only, refrain from physical contact when offering the Sign of Peace, and to sanitise when entering and exiting the premises.

 

Please note that people entering the church are required to scan the Check-In Qld app - Queensland, which will register you as attending that mass time

Hispanic (Latino American) Mass

Fr. Syrilus Madin 

5 pm Mass 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month 

St Vincent's Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta 0406 705 349

Polish Mass 

Fr Grzegorz Gawel SChr  (Bowen Hills 3252 2200)

12.30 pm Mass Sunday Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

Gold Coast Contact: George Syrek 0411 302 802      

Italian Mass  

Fr Angelo Cagna 0423648736

4 pm Mass Sunday Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

Gold Coast Contact: Connie Canale 5575 8882

 

Maronite Mass   

Fr Fadi Salame 0421 790 996

6.30 pm Saturday Vigil, Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

Masks must be worn by all over the age of 12 years.

The Delta strain of COVID is highly contagious.  Please get tested for any flu-like symptoms.  In addition to this, please check the list of daily exposure sites on the Queensland Health Website to see if you have been in casual contact with the virus. Pay special attention to the "new" sites listed.  We all travel, so it is likely we are in contact. https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/contact-tracing. Get tested if you have been exposed.  Please do not return to Mass unless you have received a negative result. You can put all those attending mass with you at risk by not adhering to the Queensland Health directive.   Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

STARTING NEXT YEAR -  NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL WITHIN OUR PARISH - Star of the Sea - Merrimac

 

Starts 2022 

Initially Prep to Year 3, and then extend

Website: Star Of The Sea Merrimac  

Facebook Page: Star of the Sea


 

NOTICES AND MESSAGES

FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 3rd September  from 7pm to 8.30pm at Sacred Heart Church.  All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421835678.

"Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40

 

SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS 

The Parish Shops are open before and after Mass each weekend. For enquiries at other times, please contact Pat 0404 805 819 or visit the Parish office between 9am-12pm weekdays.

 

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 10:45 am. 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 10.30 am to prepare adequately for class). For more information, call Ruth on 0421338110.

 

JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE -    

Position Vacant – Youth Ministry Coordinator (Maroochydore)

Applications are open for a position at the Maroochydore Catholic Community. A person who is able to establish and develop a youth ministry program within the parish is required for 8 hours per week over 1 day which is negotiable. Application close: 30 August 2021

https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/340182/youth-ministry-coordinator-maroochydore-parish

 

Position Vacant – Parish Secretary- Zillmere

 Applications are open for a position at the Zillmere Parish. A person with excellent administration and time management skills required for a part time position of Parish Secretary working 24 hours a week, Tuesday to Friday (9am to 3.00pm).

 For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/345762/parish-secretary-zillmere-parish. Applications close: 31 August 2021

 

Position Vacant – Parish Secretary (Goodna Parish)

 Applications are open for a position at the Goodna Parish. A person with excellent administration and time management skills required for a part time position of Parish Secretary working 24 hours a week, Tuesday to Friday 8.30am to 3pm.

 For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers.    Closing date: 1st September 2021

 

Position Vacant – Pastoral Associate- Sunnybank 

 Applications are open for a position at the Sunnybank Parish. The Pastoral Associate will be required to coordinate children and their families preparing for the Sacraments. The applicant will also be involved in Liturgy preparation, Adult Education and Pastoral Care of Parishioners.  The applicant will require recent study and practice in the Sacraments of Initiation and Theological qualifications are essential.

 The position is permanent part time 28 hours per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday)

 For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities. Applications close: 30 September 2021

 

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/350411/parish-secretary-booval 

Closing date – 22 September 2021

 

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 that we conduct 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) and/or vulnerable adults. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a 0 tolerance to abuse of children or vulnerable adults.

 

 

 

FAN THE FLAME PLENARY COUNCIL REFLECTION

'This people honours me only with lip-service,

while their hearts are far from me.'

Mark 7:1-8,14-15,21-23

 

Unless we train ministers capable of warming people's hearts, of walking with them in the night, of dialoguing with their hopes and disappointments, of mending their brokenness, what hope can we have for our present and future journey?   (Pope Francis, Meeting with the Bishops of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro, 28 July 2013)

www.plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/fantheflame/

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

 

 

WEEKLY   Q

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 prize!

 

Frs Peter and Paul have provided, over the year, an enormous amount of information over a diverse number of topics and this trivia quiz is a way to remind us of these articles and comments.

 

 

HOW are you going with the answers? 

                            

This weeks question:

 

Question 6.  'It is essential for the baptised and ordained to also take each other with seriousness and respect to work together as partners. Each day sees many steps towards the universal pathway to holiness. Pope Paul V suggested that the most comprehensive way of proclaiming the Gospel is via dialog. And dialog isn't just a matter of words. Pope Paul V names five kinds of dialog.' Can you name the five kinds of dialog?

ANSWERS to QUESTIONS 4 and 5

Question 4.  As is customary at this time of year in the lead-up to the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, a number of ordination anniversaries occur.  At least four past and present priests are named in this list – can you name the four priests who are celebrating their anniversary of priesthood and who have served in the Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish within the last 35 years?

ANSWER  27 June 2021 ORDINATION ANNIVERSARIES

Rev Peter Gablonski, Bp Emeritus William Morris, Rev Denis Long, V Rev Peter Dillon 

 

Question 5. 'How many times have we experienced storms in our lives and thought that the Lord was asleep, that God was not concerned, that God was simply ignoring us?'  Who penned these words and what was the date of the Newsletter in which they are found?

ANSWER  20 June 2021 THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND - Jesus Calms the storms of life. Jesus is God, whom even the Wind and the Waves obey.

Fr Paul Kelly

 

 

PLEASE PRAY  - IN OUR HEARTS AND PRAYERS AT THIS TIME

FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK:  Sr Mary Teresa (NZ- sister of Caroline Moulden), Dawn Grigson, Bert Devich,  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 and its effects. 

 

RECENTLY DECEASED: Monica Bokeyar, Marilyn Casey, Bernice Camilleri, Noel John Ancrum, Shirley Ann Appleby, John Francis Paul, Mark John Nussbaum, Justin King, Mary Murphy (Ireland), Angela Dirou, Fausto Mascia, Mahin Fahimi, Hossein Sadafzadeh, Marija Mercep, Christopher Walsh, Gary Foster, John Joseph Sesta (Brother of Sr. Elvira), Fr Dan Carroll, Helen Therese Moffat.

 

ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Denis Hart, Antonio Cecco, John Cummins, Lisa Margaret Quartermaine, Edmund Scotter White, Santina (Tina) Mantello, Joan Patricia Baker, Jadvyga Ladyga, Dorothy Pierce, Frank Gardner, Veronica Mary Bourke, John Bottos, Algernon (Algie) Scharenguivel , Frederick Jerome (Fred) Anderson, Topie Paagalua, Patricia Mary "Tricia" Keevers, Robert George Hanley, Clement Durkin, Joseph Francis Wherby, Max Butler, Molly Brennan, Colin Francis Bingham, Joe Dominiak, Carmela Parente, Luciano Fioravanti, Edna Hamilton, Joan Margaret Gibbon, Wladyslawa Dominiak, Bernard William McKay, Timothy Sullivan.

 

 

LINKS & RESOURCES

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/

 

Next Sunday's Readings

 

Readings for Sunday, September 5, 2021 - Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  

FIRST READING: Isa 35: 4-7a

Ps: Ps 146: 6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10 "Praise the Lord, my soul! "

SECOND READING: Jas 2: 1-5

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 4: 23): Alleluia, alleluia! Jesus preached the good news of the Kingdom. And healed all who were sick.

GOSPEL: Mark 7: 31-37

 

 

Acknowledgement of Country - This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians 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, who are 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 the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of our Indigenous people. We pay tribute to those who have contributed in many ways to the life of the community. We affirm our commitment to justice,  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.