Friday, 24 September 2021

SPCP_E-newsletter - Sunday, September 26, 2021 -Twenty-sixth 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, September 26, 2021 

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B   

 

Readings for Sunday, September 26, 2021 - Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  

FIRST READING: Num 11: 25-29

Ps: Ps 19: 8, 10, 12-13, 14 "The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart."

SECOND READING: Jas 5: 1-6

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. John 17: 17b+a): Alleluia, alleluia! Your word, O Lord, is truth. Make us holy in the Truth.

GOSPEL: Mark 9: 38-43, 45, 47-48

 

"Do not stop him! For whoever is not against you is for you."(Mark 9: 50)

 

(Shutterstock licensed Image ID: 664447516 -Archaeological site Capernaum on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel, ancient millstone for olive oil press- 

By alefbet)

PASTOR'S POST:  STICK TO YOUR GUNS

As demanding as priesthood can be at times, I am certain that the consistently more demanding vocation is that of parenthood. Particularly in this present age when parenting is so publicly open to scrutiny and where so many contrary values seem to bombard families. Having to guide and instruct children, particularly in their teenage years, when so much is on offer, must surely test even the most confident and capable of parents. When saying "no" is made to sound like "I don't really love you ".

 

Your conviction as a parent may often be at odds with that of your children. This parent/child misunderstanding happens in every era, but recently it seems to be taking a greater toll than in previous generations. It may seem as though you live in different worlds. Your most cherished beliefs and practices may hold little interest for your children. Two of the areas that we hear most about in the context of our faith life in families, are intimate relationships and attendance at Sunday Mass.

 

Bearing in mind that I don't speak from personal experience as a parent, and that watching from a distance does not always give the truest picture, may I say a few things as gently and as honestly as possible?

 

If we believe in Christ's teaching as mediated to us through the Scriptures and the Church, I don't think we should compromise for anybody, especially those for whom we are responsible for teaching and nurturing. We hold to the Christian tradition as we received it. We hold to it in faith. We hold to it in love and trust. We believe, as Christians, that sexual relationships are meant for marriage. As safe and pleasant and fulfilling as they may be, we accept that sex and commitment are intertwined. 

 

We also believe that, if we are to worship as a community, in the importance and value of regular attendance at Sunday Mass. Whether it is inconvenient or not, whether it suits our sporting or social calendar or not, this is the day we have accepted as our time of gathering. While there may be times when this is genuinely not possible, there is nevertheless, a strong responsibility to be part of the tradition of our fellow believers. As Catholics we are "Sunday People", the people who gather in community to pray, to share, to listen and to serve each other. When did that get all too demanding for people such that they can only manage Easter and Christmas, if it doesn't interrupt anything else.

 

This being said, if our children reject these beliefs, we do not respond by rejecting or ignoring them. We have too many faults ourselves to be dismissive of others. Often listening to the perspective of others gives us an opportunity to share ours. Faith is rarely revived when communication and love breakdown. So let us exercise our conviction with compassion, faith with understanding, witnessing with humility. Stick to your guns alright, but don't shoot anybody in the process.

              

Fr Peter Dillon. PP - (From a Pastor's post originally published 20th August 2017)

 

 

We congratulate the Haley, Tallant, Testa, Santos Spohr, Mistry and De Winter families, whose children Maxley Robyn, Lennon James, Logan Mario, Hannah, Maddison Grace and Matthew Bernard will be baptised in our Parish this weekend. 

 

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

 

TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - She's With Him

Being a strong companion or having great compassion is essential for discipleship. The Blessed Virgin Mary had both. Notice the "com-" prefix of those qualities, which means "with." Under the title Our Lady of Sorrows, Mary is the first witness of the church and stood with Jesus through his pain and glory—his life, death, and Resurrection. The church uses "sorrows" here not so that we would be sad and weighed down but to lift up what it means to really be "with" another person and to share deeply their joy and sorrow. Mary continues to stand alongside us. How do you experience Mary's companionship and compassion in your own life? (John 19:25-27 - "Woman, behold, your son"). 

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

 

STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - 

"Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward."  Mark 9:41 

We are made in God's image and likeness.  We tend to forget this.  When you look at others, do you see the face of Jesus in them?  When others look at you, do they see the face of Jesus in you?  When we realize that all lives matter to God, then gratitude and generously become easier.  Why?  Because that's the way we are made!  We are one Body of Christ; when one of us is hurting, all of us feel the pain.

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

 

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM

THE ORDER OF SACRAMENTS FOR CHILDREN:

BAPTISM in Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise Parish follows the policies of the Archdiocese of Brisbane as it welcomes each person into the family of the Church through the waters of Baptism. Baptism is the first of three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

Infants and children are baptised at the request of parents. Within the Baptism ritual, parents promise to accept the responsibility of training their children in the practice of the faith and to raise their children to understand and live God's commandments. Parents can request baptism for their child by filling out an enrolment form, available on our parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au Once the online baptism form has been received, our Baptism Coordinator will provide details for preparation for the Sacrament of Baptism and will also explain the requirements for booking the Baptism Celebration day. 

CONFIRMATION in Surfers Paradise                                                                                                                                                                                                              The second group of Confirmation candidates for 2021 have begun their preparation!                                                                                                       

Over 90 children and their families have started their "At Home Preparation for Confirmation". They will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation on October 15. We ask all parishioners to continue to pray for these children, their sponsors and their families. May they open their hearts and minds to the light and love of God as they seek to learn more about the gifts of the Spirit. And may our whole Parish family be inspired by the power of the Holy Spirit alive among us, today and always. 

For your child to be included in next year's preparation Confirmation 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 Confirmation (under Sacraments). Then scroll down to and click on CHILDREN'S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM (in the blue box). Once you click on SUBMIT, you will receive an automated response so that you know that your completed application has been received. Next year, you will receive a personal email a couple of months prior to the next preparation group starting (around the beginning of Term Two) 

EUCHARIST - FIRST COMMUNION

This year, 105 Surfers Paradise Parish children celebrated their First Holy Communion over two weekends - May 30 and June 6, 2021. They were two wonderful celebrations. 

For children seeking to receive their First Communion in 2022, the parents of children who were confirmed in 2021 will be contacted via email in Term One next year. This email will explain the dates and requirements for meetings etc. If your child was baptised and confirmed in another parish and you would like to join the group making their First Communion in Surfers Paradise Parish in 2022, please go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au and complete an online enrolment application. The process is similar to that described above in the Confirmation section.

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 At Home 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.

 

ADULT FAITH ENRICHMENT: REFLECTION & BIBLE STUDY

NEXT SESSION - SUNDAY MORNING 26th SEPTEMBER 2021 

In-person at the Parish Hospitality Centre and also coming to you on ZOOM!

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

If you want to connect from your home, we can assist you in joining (ring 0409 486 326)

If you are already familiar with Zoom, access to the ZOOM Meeting is ID 743 836 7833

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 IN-BETWEEN 

 

 

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

 

INSPIRING QUOTES: 

  • Wisdom from Saint Vincent de Paul:

    • "Humility is nothing but the truth, and pride is nothing but lying."

    • "You will find out that Charity is a heavy burden to carry, heavier than the kettle of soup and the full basket. But you will keep your gentleness and your smile. It is not enough to give soup and bread. This the rich can do. You are the servant of the poor, always smiling and good-humoured. They are your masters, terribly sensitive and exacting master you will see. And the uglier and the dirtier they will be, the more unjust and insulting, the more love you must give them. It is only for your love alone that the poor will forgive you the bread you give to them."

    • "Make it a practice to judge persons and things in the most favourable light at all times and under all circumstances."

    • "Go to the poor: you will find God."

    • "Charity is certainly greater than any rule. Moreover, all rules must lead to charity."

    • "The kingdom of God is peace in the Holy Spirit; He will reign in you if your heart is at peace. So, be at peace, Mademoiselle, and you will honour in a sovereign way the God of peace and love." 

  • "But his deeds I think you know better than I could tell you;  for, as is read in his Passion, no one doubts that rising every night from his noble bed, with bare feet and only one chamberlain, he went around to God's churches and gave alms generously to widows, orphans, those in prison and afflicted by every difficulty, so much so that he was considered, not a prince, but the father of all the wretched." Chronicler of St Wenceslaus. 

  • "But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, 'The Lord rebuke you!.'" Jude 1:9

  • The Wisdom of Saint Jerome:

    • Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better and your better is best.

    • The face is the mirror of the mind, and eyes without speaking confess the secrets of the heart.

    • Catch, then, O catch the transient hour; Improve each moment as it flies!

    • The line, often adopted by strong men in controversy, of justifying the means by the end.

    • The friendship that can cease has never been real.

    • True friendship ought never to conceal what it thinks.

    • Early impressions are hard to eradicate from the mind. When once wool has been dyed purple, who can restore it to its previous whiteness?

    • Why do you not practice what you preach?

    • Beauty when unadorned is adorned the most.

  • The Wisdom of Saint Thérèse de Lisieux

    • "The splendour of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness."

    • "Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there, by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love."

    • "For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy."

    • "Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing."

    • "The world's thy ship and not thy home."

    • "God would never inspire me with desires which cannot be realized; so in spite of my littleness, I can hope to be a saint."

    • "Holiness consists simply in doing God's will, and being just what God wants us to be."

    • "When one loves, one does not calculate."

    • "A word or a smile is often enough to put fresh life in a despondent soul."

    • "When I die, I will send down a shower of roses from the heavens, I will spend my heaven by doing good on earth."

    • "It's true, I suffer a great deal--but do I suffer well? That is the question."

 

THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND - WORK WITH GOD WHEREVER HE IS WORKING, AND WHENEVER HE IS WORKING, AND WITH WHOMSOEVER HE CHOOSES TO WORK. 

This weekend, the core of Christ's message of unselfish service and love really strikes us.  I love these readings for their practicality and clarity.  God reminds us that God's Spirit blows wherever it wills. God acts in and through whom God wants. We cannot limit God or demand that God works only through official channels. We are God's servants, and we do not direct God, we serve God and God's ways.

 

The readings speak of the fact that God's Spirit blows where it wills and we cannot try to limit God's action. God works in and through anyone God chooses. Eldad and Medad are two people in the First reading who receive the spirit of God even though they were not in the tent with the others. There was some consternation about that… should we stop them, because they did not receive the Holy Spirit in the same way that we did, and the way WE think they should have received it? God says I will give the Spirit to whomsoever I choose and how and when I choose.   

 

Our job is not to limit God but to respond and cooperate with God wherever God's action is found.  The names Eldad and Medad are rather interesting…   Eldad means 'the one whom God has loved" and Medad means "love" or "waters of love."  It could also be a reminder, that God's love and God's action flow freely and generously to everyone, without boundary or limitation. The waters of God's love flow whichever course God chooses and the Spirit of God blows wherever it wills. 

 

We are warned:  Jealousy is not a virtue in the Kingdom of God. Do not be jealous of anyone who is doing God's work. Do not make comparisons between yourself and your work of the Kingdom and someone else. There is enough work for the labourers of the Kingdom to occupy us all. Do not look at others and who they are or what are not doing.  Do your work diligently….   Everyone has a different part of the work of the Kingdom, (as we heard last week, making comparisons and being jealous and trying to monopolise God's work… none of that is really the qualities to be found in the real Kingdom of God…)

 

Saint James is encouraging a healthy aversion to possessions and wealth, particularly if wealth and comfort are gained at the expense of others who are going without the necessities of life, and are who are in dire need…  and especially if the wealth is gained from dishonesty and unjustly ripping off others…  this will all come back to bite them, Saint James warns…

 

The gospel..  rather than talking about literally "cutting off" parts of the body, is really speaking metaphorically by means of a surgical idea that sometimes the integrity and health of the whole body needs to be preserved by amputating or removing a diseased part of the body….  So, this is really talking about the Community, the church, as the Body of Christ. This image refers to the members of the community… For all who are doing the work of the gospel, let them do it unobstructed, and cooperate with them in their work where possible…  Do not interfere with others' work and do not dismay or overload them…..   But, if anyone is doing things that are opposite to the values of the gospel, or disrupting the work of the Gospel, cut them off quickly…   Remove them so that they do not poison the community in its good work and rightly-ordered values…   This is quite challenging and sobering stuff…

 

The readings today are a great encouragement for ecumenical cooperation amongst people of other Christian church denominations, and even broader cooperation with people who are of a non-Christian faith, or even those who do not believe in God at all but who practise the human values that do not contradict Jesus' values and message in essence or effect.

 

Anyone who (even though they do not personally know of Jesus), but who nevertheless who holds Jesus' values and who lives the principles and values of the gospel, is a friend of God and will be welcomed into God's family.

 

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

(Source:  Fr Paul Kelly)

(Image: ShutterstockLicensed stock vector ID:1643153383- Biblical vector illustration series, close up of Jesus on the cross wearing a crown of thorns.  By rudall30)

 

POPE FRANCIS:  MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS, FOR THE 107th WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES 2021.  [26 September 2021]

 TOWARDS AN EVER WIDER "WE"

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In the Encyclical Fratelli Tutti, I expressed a concern and a hope that remain uppermost in my thoughts: "Once this health crisis passes, our worst response would be to plunge even more deeply into feverish consumerism and new forms of egotistic self-preservation. God willing, after all this, we will think no longer in terms of 'them' and 'those', but only 'us'" (No. 35).

For this reason, I have wished to devote the Message for this year's World Day of Migrants and Refugees to the theme, Towards An Ever Wider "We", in order to indicate a clear horizon for our common journey in this world.

The history of this "we"

That horizon is already present in God's creative plan: "God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them, and God said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply'" (Gen 1:27-28). God created us male and female, different yet complementary, in order to form a "we" destined to become ever more numerous in the succession of generations. God created us in his image, in the image of his own triune being, a communion in diversity.

When, in disobedience we turned away from God, he in his mercy wished to offer us a path of reconciliation, not as individuals but as a people, a "we", meant to embrace the entire human family, without exception: "See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them" (Rev 21:3).

Salvation history thus has a "we" in its beginning and a "we" at its end, and at its centre the mystery of Christ, who died and rose so "that they may all be one" (Jn 17:21). The present time, however, shows that this "we" willed by God is broken and fragmented, wounded and disfigured. This becomes all the more evident in moments of great crisis, as is the case with the current pandemic. Our "we", both in the wider world and within the Church, is crumbling and cracking due to myopic and aggressive forms of nationalism (cf. Fratelli Tutti, 11) and radical individualism (cf. ibid., 105). And the highest price is being paid by those who most easily become viewed as others: foreigners, migrants, the marginalized, those living on the existential peripheries.

The truth however is that we are all in the same boat and called to work together so that there will be no more walls that separate us, no longer others, but only a single "we", encompassing all of humanity. Thus I would like to use this World Day to address a twofold appeal, first to the Catholic faithful and then all the men and women of our world, to advance together towards an ever wider "we".

A Church that is more and more "catholic"

For the members of the Catholic Church, this appeal entails a commitment to becoming ever more faithful to our being "catholic", as Saint Paul reminded the community in Ephesus: "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism" (Eph 4:4-5).

Indeed the Church's catholicity, her universality, must be embraced and expressed in every age, according to the will and grace of the Lord who promised to be with us always, until the end of the age (cf. Mt 28:20). The Holy Spirit enables us to embrace everyone, to build communion in diversity, to unify differences without imposing a depersonalized uniformity. In encountering the diversity of foreigners, migrants and refugees, and in the intercultural dialogue that can emerge from this encounter, we have an opportunity to grow as Church and to enrich one another. All the baptized, wherever they find themselves, are by right members of both their local ecclesial community and the one Church, dwellers in one home and part of one family.

The Catholic faithful are called to work together, each in the midst of his or her own community, to make the Church become ever more inclusive as she carries out the mission entrusted to the Apostles by Jesus Christ: "As you go, proclaim the good news, 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment" (Mt 10:7-8).

In our day, the Church is called to go out into the streets of every existential periphery in order to heal wounds and to seek out the straying, without prejudice or fear, without proselytising, but ready to widen her tent to embrace everyone. Among those dwelling in those existential peripheries, we find many migrants and refugees, displaced persons and victims of trafficking, to whom the Lord wants his love to be manifested and his salvation preached. "The current influx of migrants can be seen as a new "frontier" for Mission, a privileged opportunity to proclaim Jesus Christ and the Gospel message at home, and to bear concrete witness to the Christian faith in a spirit of charity and profound esteem for other religious communities. The encounter with migrants and refugees of other denominations and religions represents a fertile ground for the growth of open and enriching ecumenical and interreligious dialogue" (Address to the National Directors of Pastoral Care for Migrants, 22 September 2017).

An ever more inclusive world

I also make this appeal to journey together towards an ever wider "we" to all men and women, for the sake of renewing the human family, building together a future of justice and peace, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

Our societies will have a "colourful" future, enriched by diversity and by cultural exchanges. Consequently, we must even now learn to live together in harmony and peace. I am always touched by the scene in the Acts of the Apostles when, on the day of the Church's "baptism" at Pentecost, immediately after the descent of the Holy Spirit, the people of Jerusalem hear the proclamation of salvation: "We… Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs – in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power" (2:9-11).

This is the ideal of the new Jerusalem (cf. Is 60; Rev 21:3), where all peoples are united in peace and harmony, celebrating the goodness of God and the wonders of creation. To achieve this ideal, however, we must make every effort to break down the walls that separate us and, in acknowledging our profound interconnection, build bridges that foster a culture of encounter. Today's migration movements offer an opportunity for us to overcome our fears and let ourselves be enriched by the diversity of each person's gifts. Then, if we so desire, we can transform borders into privileged places of encounter, where the miracle of an ever wider "we" can come about.

I invite all men and women in our world to make good use of the gifts that the Lord has entrusted to us to preserve and make his creation even more beautiful. "A nobleman went to a distant country to get royal power for himself and then return. He summoned ten of his slaves, and gave them ten pounds, and said to them, 'Do business with these until I come back'" (Lk 19:12-13). The Lord will also demand of us an account of our work! In order to ensure the proper care of our common home, we must become a "we" that is ever wider and more co-responsible, in the profound conviction that whatever good is done in our world is done for present and future generations. Ours must be a personal and collective commitment that cares for all our brothers and sisters who continue to suffer, even as we work towards a more sustainable, balanced and inclusive development. A commitment that makes no distinction between natives and foreigners, between residents and guests, since it is a matter of a treasure we hold in common, from whose care and benefits no one should be excluded.

The dream begins

The prophet Joel predicted that the messianic future would be a time of dreams and visions inspired by the Spirit: "I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions" (Joel 2:28). We are called to dream together, fearlessly, as a single human family, as companions on the same journey, as sons and daughters of the same earth that is our common home, sisters and brothers all (cf. Fratelli Tutti, 8).

Prayer

Holy, beloved Father,

your Son Jesus taught us

that there is great rejoicing in heaven

whenever someone lost is found,

whenever someone excluded, rejected or discarded

is gathered into our "we",

which thus becomes ever wider.

We ask you to grant the followers of Jesus,

and all people of goodwill,

the grace to do your will on earth.

Bless each act of welcome and outreach

that draws those in exile

into the "we" of community and of the Church,

so that our earth may truly become

what you yourself created it to be:

the common home of all our brothers and sisters. Amen.

 

Franciscus

 

Rome, Saint John Lateran, 3 May 2021 -Feast of Saints Philip and James, Apostles.  

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/migration/documents/papa-francesco_20210503_world-migrants-day-2021.html 

 (Image - Shutterstock Licensed Image -561912127 -Rome, Italy - By Boris Stroujko ).

 

 

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

 

 

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 here.

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).

 

MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES

Sacred Heart 

350 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

200 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 

150 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, which will register you as attending that mass time.

Please show our volunteers at the door your before entering the church. Ask for assistance if you require help getting the App on your phone. If you are not able to get the App (your phone is too old /not compatible /you don't have a mobile), only then are you required to write down your name and contact number. 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 ANY TIME YOU CANNOT DISTANCE 1.5 METRES

Hispanic (Latino American) Mass: Fr. Syrilus Madin 

5 pm Mass 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month - St Vincent's Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta 0406 705 349

Polish Mass: Fr Grzegorz Gaweł 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.

 

NOTICES AND MESSAGES

 

FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this 1st Friday 1st October at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30pm.  Enquiries: Helen 0421935678                "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40

 

FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND ADORATION

Sacred Heart Church First Saturday Mass at 9 am Saturday 2nd October, followed by a time of Adoration and  Benediction. 

 

Functional Exercise Class - Low Impact for Heart Health 

Spring has sprung! Join Rochelle for a fun functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-round 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 further information on 0438 333 308. 

 

Worldwide Marriage Encounter

A weekend experience for married couples, priests and religious, away from the distractions of everyday living.   Take time out of your busy schedule, to invest in your most precious asset and revitalise your Sacrament.  This is a unique opportunity to reconnect, rekindle and refresh your relationship.  It gives you the opportunity to grow in your relationship with your spouse or your community. Our next COVID-SAFE live-out weekend will be held from Friday evening 15 October to Sunday afternoon 17 October (including Mass) at Trinity College, Beenleigh (south of Brisbane) – going home on the Friday and Saturday evenings.  Contact Maria and David Murphy: (07) 3342 1456, dandmmurphy@optusnet.com.au  Information website:  www.wwme.org.au

Please watch a Youtube clip about Marriage Encounter by Archbishop Mark Coleridge, here. It is a powerful testimony. 

 

SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS

Orders are closing this week (Sept 30 deadline)for the annual 2022 Liturgical resources.

Year C 2022 Break Open the Word $12  (subsidised cost to readers) otherwise $27

           2022 Daily Mass Book $27

                        2022 ORDO  $20

                        2022 God's Word  $20 

Please email the Parish Office  'surfers@bne.catholic.net.au' or contact /text Pat 0404 805 819

 

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.

 

FAN THE FLAME PLENARY COUNCIL REFLECTION

Check out this new video presentation:  https://www.dropbox.com/s/27r1l8g00gu6zdq/Plenary%20Council%20Powtoon%20%28Female%20Voiceover%29.mp4?dl=0 

'If anyone gives you a cup of water to drink just because you belong to Christ, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.'   Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48

The healing hands and support offered by a humble and merciful community are at the heart of a response to trauma and woundedness. Many need and yearn for full integration into the life of a loving community, where one is known and belongs.

(Humble, Healing and Merciful – Discernment Paper p. 12)

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

 

ALL HALLOWS' SCHOOL 50TH YEAR REUNION

The "Class of 1971" and anyone who shared the journey are invited to attend our 50th Year Reunion Gathering at Cloudland, 641 ANN STREET, ON SATURDAY THE 30TH OCTOBER 2021 AT 1 PM.

BOOKINGS CAN BE MADE AT www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ahs-class-of-71-reunion-tickets-166265242817

It would be appreciated if you could forward this information to friends and family who may not have received an invitation, or may have a change of email. Please direct any enquiries to Anne Marie Troutman on 0408495094 or amtrout@bigpond.net.au

 

JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE 

Position Vacant – Youth Ministry Coordinator. Albany Creek. 

Applications are open for a position at the Albany Creek Catholic Parish. A person who is able to establish and develop a youth ministry program within the parish is required for 15 hours per week.

https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunitie

Application close: 30 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 a permanent part-time job for 28 hours per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday)

https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/355466/pastoral-associate-sunnybank-parish. Applications close: 1 October 2021

 

PLEASE PRAY - IN OUR HEARTS AND PRAYERS AT THIS TIME

FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Kent Vince, Judy Alexander, Mathew Duran, Kurt Hillesheim, Sr Mary Teresa (NZ- sister of Caroline Moulden), 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, 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:  Anthony (Tony) Weinand, Barbara Murray, Maureen Mary Long (mother of Fr Denis Long), Saleha Begun, Valentine Krausman, Peter Lawlor, Jack Healy, Doris Zarb, Vincent Attard, Daniel Simpson, Thomas Edward Holt, Maria Di Martino, Flor de la Cuesta, Rose Carroll, Eva Rose Hinde,  Dawn Grigson, Bruno Chiera, Jeanette Edna James, Sr Margaret Finnan, Danny Connelly, Des George, Elizabeth Grippo, Bruno Chiera, Jeanette James, Adelina Ochoa, Monica Bokeyar, Marilyn Casey, Bernice Camilleri, Noel John Ancrum, Shirley Ann Appleby, John Francis Paul, Justin King, Mark John Nussbaum.

 

ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Mark Connell Rita McCarthy (Bp Michael's Mother), Allan Taranto, Maria Nazari, Maureen Murphy, Wilma Claire Burcham, Geoffrey Rose, John Maxwell Dixon, Peter Avery, Anita Cruz, Fanny Macky, Franz Mrak, Shirley Alford, Muriel Doris Miller, Catherine Alford, Christine Antoinette O'Leary, Kelly John Chen, Nea Mary Butler, Charles Henry Lynch, Cecilia Mary Kelly, Vera Rose, Mary Jean Lenthall, Dulcie May Ricks, Yvonne Henrietta Lofthouse, Veronica Ella Mantle, Reginald Ronald Glover, Rhonda Milne, Craig Antoine Blanch, Gwyneth Aiken, Gordon Farquhar, Imelda Petronella (Millie) Duijn, Edward Lawrence(Ned) Darcy, Elio Romanin.

 

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, October 3, 2021 - Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  

FIRST READING: Gen 2: 18-24

Ps: Ps 128: 1-2, 3, 4-5, 6 "May the Lord bless us, all the days of our lives. "

SECOND READING: Heb 2: 9-11

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (1 John 4: 12): Alleluia, alleluia! If we love one another. God will live in us in perfect love.

GOSPEL: Mark 10: 2-16 or 10: 2-12

 

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.

 

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.

 


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