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"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all."
(Mark 10: 43-44)
(Shutterstock licensed Image ID996503437 - gospel jug pitcher bath object. By ArtMari:)
PASTOR'S POST:
The Art of Enjoyment
Have you ever wondered why it is that people really don't start to live and enjoy life until they reach the time for retirement, or that the people we really admire most are the people who really seem to be able to enjoy the simple things of life as well as its challenges? Most of us have the mindset that tells us to work hard early in life and save up the latter part to enjoy doing the things we had little time for earlier.
One of the lines of the Jewish Talmud reads: "Everyone shall be called to account for all the legitimate pleasures which he or she failed to enjoy". How refreshing to consider that instead of being judged for the wrongs that we have done in our lives, we may well have to be reprimanded for not having taken full advantage of the wondrous and enjoyable opportunities, God-given and offered in abundance.
With the outstanding range of choices and situations that are now open to us in this modern and material world, the first 20 years of this century are now acknowledged as the un-happiest generation in the last one hundred years. How is that possible with all the wonderful options open to us, at least those of us who live in the lucky country? It is said that it is precisely because of the range of choices we have that we worry more about what we have rejected, rather than that which we have opted for. We literally have too much of a good thing and don't want to let any of it out of our grasp for fear that it may never come again, or that someone else may end up with something that we had wanted.
Enjoyment is more a mindset than a set of circumstances, and it is certainly more of a choice than a chance. Apart from the necessary losses and unforeseen tragedies that can and do happen in everyone's life at some time, our mindsets matter most. It all depends on the way we see things. Bad moods do not happen by chance, we actually cultivate them. They are usually a result of a lack of balance in our lives. We don't rest or find space to recover, we react before we think or allow situations to upset us before we truly consider if they are worth the trouble.
The art of enjoying people and things is a skill that must be practised. It can be difficult if we have become experts at always seeing things in a bad light, or if we come with an attitude that 'if I am enjoying myself I must be doing something wrong.'
Simply try enjoying yourself for the next hour and take opportunities to make it an outstanding hour. If we find this too difficult and exercise, then perhaps we no longer know what we really do enjoy. If we can have a good time without material things around us, then how can we ever hope to have an enjoyable time when these things might no longer be available? Every time we consciously set out to do something we really enjoy, we cultivate the habit of enjoyment, and we start to understand that life is meant to be celebrated rather than endured.
Fr Peter Dillon. PP
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
IN THANKSGIVING FOR SPECIAL MILESTONES AND BLESSINGS: 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY WISHES
Congratulations to Grace and Tony Sulfaro, also Susan and Alan Ryding.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Kent Vince, Carmelita Dulu, Judy Alexander, Mathew Duran, Kurt Hillesheim, Sr Mary Teresa (NZ- sister of Caroline Moulden), 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, Ls & Doug Wood, Duncan Dawson, Sam Maxwell, William Franklin, 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: Antonio Cruz, Clara Yepes, Donna Farkas, Yvonne McMahon, Bede Shortis, Thomas Ward, Brian Cole, Robyn Quirk, 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: Eammon Sherrard, Toh Ga Choon, Edwin Ware, Nalin Sena, Thelma Muggleton, Rodney Matthews, Cecil John (Digger) Hogan, Virginia Mary Fay, Cecilia Louisa Vlemmix, Christine McQueen, Danielle Suzanne Marthe Marie Begaud, Helen McIntosh Davidson Kelly, Stephen John Schreck, Rosario Nocal, Carmen Kruse, Julie Mary Ritchie, William Henry Mitchell, Philippe Melham Aouad, Flora Hodge, Elizabeth Neilsen, Vincent Netting, Gaetana Cutayar, John Aloysius Kelly, Mary Frances Mullahy, Ryan Andrew Hogan, Betty Neilsen, Jesuraya Yema Nadar.
The Sacred Heart Rosary Group
The Rosary Group at Sacred Heart Church, gather to pray the Rosary and Divine Mercy every morning, Monday to Friday before Mass at the Sacred Heart Church. Everyone is welcome to come at 8.15 am to come and join in for the Rosary and Divine Mercy before Mass.
CONCLUDING STATEMENT FROM PLENARY COUNCIL SESSION 1 (OCTOBER 2021)
The First General Assembly of the Plenary Council
The Journey so Far
As we conclude the First General Assembly of the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia, the process of discernment continues. From the opening Mass to the closing of the Assembly, our prayer has been 'Come, Holy Spirit.' The call to hear afresh the Good News of Jesus Christ through a spiritual posture of 'deep listening' has been a central element of the preparation of the Plenary process and a distinctive feature of this week. We adopted a regular pattern of prayer and spiritual conversation throughout each day. This slow process of deep listening allowed space for still nascent dreams and visions to come to greater maturity.
The opening session each day began with a Welcome to Country, spoken from various regions of Australia. Indigenous voices, both young and old, paid respects to Elders past, present and emerging, welcomed the Members of the Plenary Council to the day's gathering, and invited all of us to a time of quiet and prayer. As Members offered their reflections day by day, they regularly acknowledged the Indigenous peoples of the land from which they were speaking.
Over three hundred participants gathered for six days, meeting virtually across five different time zones, with many more people following the opening session of each day online. The gift of listening to one another has planted promising seeds and raised important questions for us. Many described the small group conversations and reports as the heartbeat of this First Assembly. Our process of discernment requires time and space for mature reflections to emerge, and further spiritual conversations will be necessary in our considerations of what God is asking of us in Australia at this time.
As the many personal interventions demonstrated, there is no shortage of passion and charisms among the community of believers. These interventions covered a wide range of the complex realities of the Church and Australian society in this particular moment of our history. They expressed personal wisdom and aspirations that have been a gift to this Assembly's deliberations. Many elements of the Council's Agenda were carefully considered. Discussion of other issues, including some not formally on the Agenda, was initiated and will require more time.
As participants in this Assembly, we have experienced and expressed the range of emotions that come with facing profound issues together, holding in tension diverse interpretations and expectations. Through prayer and reflection, we have been called to be patient with the process, with each other, with the Church and, most importantly, with the Holy Spirit.
We listened to the confronting and important voices of victims and survivors of abuse in the Church. They reminded us of the great wounds and failures of the Church and the continuing need to discern pathways of true healing and renewal.
The plain-speaking of First Nations people has brought into even sharper focus the need for reconciliation with Indigenous communities, as well as the need for justice and for the healing of this land itself through an 'integral ecology.'
In responding to the Agenda questions, we considered ways of living as the Church today. Many affirmed what they value about their Catholic faith: spirituality, community, prayer, liturgy and sacramental life, and service through the vocation of all the baptised. Members spoke of the ministries of pastoral care and education, health and aged care, and the many social services and advocacy the Church provides in the Australian community. These are great gifts to a world that is seeking meaning and more authentic living.
Other interventions expressed hopes for renewal, offering perspectives on what might be possible for a Church facing crucial questions, tensions and uncertainties. Many called our attention to the importance of enhancing the role of women in the Church. We heard the call to conversion and fidelity, as well as to imagination and renewal. We were reminded of the needs of rural dioceses and parishes, as well as those of large cities. We celebrated the gifts that the Eastern Churches bring to the Catholic community in Australia.
Often expressed through the lens of personal experience, the discernment of this Assembly has threaded together conversations about what the Church can offer today's world on the one hand, and how the world can inform the ways and structures of the Church on the other. We reflected on questions of leadership and governance in light of Pope Francis' call for us to be more synodal.
The missionary vision of Pope Francis has both inspired and infused all the deliberations of this First Assembly. Missionary discipleship has been a key theme, as has the call to go out to the margins. Another recurring theme, expressed in different ways, is the need for ongoing processes of ecclesial listening which can form and inform how the Church lives its mission today.
The Assembly also considered how all people might feel at home in our communities, regardless of their particular circumstances. Various voices drew our attention to young people, women, single people, parents and families, people with disabilities, people with diverse experience of sexuality and gender, and others who feel, for a variety of reasons, that there is no place for them. We asked how a missionary Church might connect with those who feel distant from the community of faith.
Each of these voices has been a powerful reminder that the Church, as a sign of the kingdom of God, has the vocation of being an image of Christ and an icon of grace to the whole human family.
With the closing of this First Assembly, the Plenary Council process now enters a time of prayer, reflection, maturation and development. This will involve continuing reflection by the Members of the Council, and consultation with the wider Church community, as we develop propositions for presentation to the Second Assembly of the Council next July. This will be coordinated with Australian preparations for the 2023 Synod, For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission.
In faith, hope and charity, we entrust all these tasks to the guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Our prayer remains, as always: 'Come, Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit of the great South Land.'
9 October 2021
St Michael's College Reconciliation Action Plan Launch - Friday 8th October
Last Friday St Michael's College launched their Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), revealing our much-anticipated wall mural honouring the Kombumerri people's lands on which the school stands.
Local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist, Luke Mallie, has worked over the past few months with staff and students at the College to create an interactive artwork piece called "Dreamtime in the Stars". Using the fingerprints of staff and students in the mural design, this collaborative art piece symbolises the start of the College's reconciliation journey.
It has been an amazing and interactive journey for staff and students to be involved in, and something that has highlighted the sense of "community' here at St Michael's College and something I thought would be nice to share with the Parishioners.
We were honoured to have Dr Doug Ashleigh Deputy Executive Director of Brisbane Catholic Education and to the Bundjalung Kunjiel Dance Troupe join us at assembly for this launch.
We have attached some images of the mural and our launch and below is a link to a time-lapse video of the mural which is great to watch: St Michael's College RAP Mural
MASS FOR YOU AT HOME
Did you know Catholic Mass is broadcast on free-to-air television each Sunday morning? Mass for You at Home is broadcast at 6 am on Channel 10 and WIN. Let family and friends know that they can pray along at home if they are unable to attend their local parish. Find out more at www.massforyou.com.au
MASK WEARING UPDATE
The mask rule in Queensland changed again at 4pm Friday 8th October 2021.
Mask Usage: In South-East Queensland you must carry a face mask with you at all times when you leave home unless you have a lawful reason not to.
Outdoors: you must wear a mask when unable to stay 1.5m apart from people who are not part of your household.
Indoors: you must wear a mask in indoor spaces (including workplaces, but not your own home) unless it is unsafe or you can stay 1.5m apart from other people.
Masses and Gatherings:
Places of worship will be held to the following occupancy restrictions (this also applies to baptisms) with the use of the COVID Safe Checklist.
1 person per 2 square metres indoors
Clergy and readers may remove masks only if they are 1.5m apart from other people.
Parishioners MUST keep their masks on while indoors unless unsafe to do so or they can stay 1.5m apart from other people who are not from their own home.
Choirs and all cantors will be required to keep their masks on while singing as singing remains a high-risk activity. A cantor may remove the mask to sing only if they can remain 7 metres apart from other people.
Weddings and Funerals, when held indoors, can have the greater of:
1 person per 2 square metres for areas open to or used by guests or patrons, or 200 people.
Food Service:
Eating or drinking while seated or standing is allowed. There are no restrictions on self-service food.
Visiting vulnerable person facilities or the homebound:
Restrictions to visits to hospitals, aged care and disability accommodation services will ease to match the rest of Queensland from 4 pm, the 8th of October 2021. Please contact the facility to receive specific directives regarding visitation.
Jesus was born to Mary "in the fullness of time," as one scripture passage puts it. This rich metaphor of time ripening rings true to the human experience. Think of the blessings in your own life, and how they have developed often from small beginnings or mere glimmers of hope: deep and lasting relationships, hard-earned insights, lifelong achievements and legacies. Good things take time, patience, perseverance, courage, and perhaps most of all, trust. Think of Mary's journey of trust in response to God's call, and make it your own. And may the blessings in your own life ripen in the fullness of time!
"Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD."
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STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION
"For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)
If you held a mirror up to your life, would it reflect God's love and mercy? If you are struggling with this, try changing your attitude from "I want more" to "thank you God for everything you have given me, I have enough to share". This change in perspective will bring you joy through service to others. Pray daily to become less self-centred and to become more God-centered.
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
Congratulations Confirmation Class of 2021
- Friday, October 15, 2021
96 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation tonight. May these children be moved by the Holy Spirit to change the face of the earth. May their faith be nourished and emboldened. May they guide us, their fellow parishioners, so that our parish community reaches out into the world - Living and sharing the joy of our faith with its message of love and forgiveness for all.
BAPTISM in Surfers Paradise
Baptism is the first of three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. 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.
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, the Parish Office will provide details for preparation for the Sacrament of Baptism and confirm the online booking.
Children's Sacramental Dates for Surfers Paradise Parish 2022
Sacrament of PENANCE - Reconciliation 2022
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 is preparing a program similar in style to the Confirmation and First Communion At Home Preparation Programs. There will be one compulsory meeting for Preparation for Reconciliation. It will be held on either February 21, 2022, or February 22, 2022 (Parents can choose to attend one of these meetings but do not need to attend both.) The First Rite of Reconciliation will be celebrated on March 31, 2022.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First Communion 2022
Children who have been baptised and confirmed and are in Year 4 or greater in 2022 are invited to prepare to receive their First Communion. If parents have previously completed an online application for enrolment in the Surfers Paradise Sacramental Program, they do not need to complete a new online form to continue.
The Parent Meeting for First Communion Preparation will be held on April 26 or April 27, 2022
(Parents can choose to attend one of these meetings but do not need to attend both.) First Communion will be celebrated on June 12 at 11:00 am and June 19 at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church (Children will be included in one of these celebrations, not both.)
Sacrament of CONFIRMATION 2022
We are hoping to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation in Term 3 of the 2022 school year. We will include dates for Parent meetings and the celebration of the sacrament once we have dates approved by the Archbishop's Office.
For your child to be included in next year's preparation for the 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. Keep checking the weekly newsletter for updates.
ADULT FAITH ENRICHMENT: REFLECTION & BIBLE STUDY
NEXT SESSION - SUNDAY MORNING 17th October 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 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
FOR YOUNG AND NOT SO YOUNG AND IN-BETWEEN
"We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20)
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY – October 24, 2021
World Mission Sunday, our annual worldwide Eucharistic celebration for the Missions and missionaries of the world, will be celebrated on October 24 this year. This collection on the next-to-last Sunday in October is a unique, global effort for the entire Church to provide for the building up of more than one thousand local churches in Asia and Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe. Through the work of these churches, and their witness to Christ, the poor receive practical help and experience God's love and mercy, His hope and peace.
This year's theme for World Mission Sunday is "We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20). Every parish in the world can participate, united in this special Eucharistic celebration. Every parishioner is a missionary, sharing our love for Christ's Gospel with one another, supporting the Church most in need.
Envelopes will be placed on the pews next weekend
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
FAITH AND WORSHIP: THE PRAYER of the Faithful really is a time for the faithful to pause and pray silently.
We have all heard that in Mass there is no such thing as a spectator! Everyone who is present at a liturgy, whether they be part of the assembly, or involved in some particular ministry like Reading or Eucharistic ministry, are intended to be participating in what is happening fully, actively and consciously.
This participation is shown clearly in the part of the Mass when the people stand to offer Prayers of the Faithful (also known as the General intercessions or the "universal prayer."
There is a distinct structure and pattern to these prayers. People often fall into the trap of thinking that the person reading out the Prayers of the Faithful is the one who is doing the praying for everyone else. This is not correct.
The prayers ought to be prepared in such a way that allows the reader to propose a particular intention, and then the assembly pauses and actually does the praying for that intention.
For example, the reader may say:
"Let us pray for peace in the world." (The reader then pauses for a period of time, to allow everyone present to stop and actually pray silently for the intention of peace!). Only then does the reader conclude the intention with the words "We pray to the Lord" or "Lord Hear us." We all respond "Lord hear our prayer."
This form is very different from a prayer such as this:
"Lord, let there be peace in the world. Lord Hear us".
In this last example, the assembly is not really involved in the praying, the person up the front does it all.
Ideally, these prayers ought to be very short.
In practice, there are often two or more sentences in Prayers of the Faithful Writers. however, when we prepare these prayers, we ought to look very carefully to see if the second sentence is really necessary.
This is the general order of prayers-
Prayer for those who exercise leadership in the world and in the church.
Prayer for the specific local needs or worldwide needs;
Prayer for those who are sick,
Prayer for those who have died
The Prayers of the Faithful need not reinforce the readings or the homily of the day. The prayers need only give voice to the many and varied hopes and prayers of the people.
Fr Paul Kelly.
INSPIRING QUOTES:
Wisdom from Saint Luke the Evangelist: (Quoting the teachings of Our Lord).
"For with God, nothing will be impossible."
"And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened."
"To whom much is given, from him much will be required."
"To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic. Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.
Wisdom from St JohnBrébeuf:
"I was at times so weary that my body could do no more. But at the same time, my soul was filled with great happiness as I realized that I was suffering this for God."
"God is the witness of our sufferings, and will soon be our exceeding great reward. Let us die in this faith…Sustain with courage the few remaining torments. They will end our lives. The glory which follows them will never have an end."
Wisdom of Saint Paul of the Cross (1694 – 1775):
The passion of Jesus is a sea of sorrows, but it is also an ocean of love. Ask the Lord to teach you to fish in this ocean. Dive into its depths. No matter how deep you go, you will never reach the bottom.
Let us throw ourselves into the ocean of His goodness, where every failing will be cancelled and anxiety turned into love.
The Cross is the way to Paradise, but only when it is borne willingly.
Listen to the sermon preached to you by the flowers, the trees, the shrubs, the sky, and the whole world. Notice how they preach to you a sermon full of love, of praise of God, and how they invite you to glorify the sublimity of that sovereign Artist who has given them being.
Entrust yourself entirely to God. He is a Father and a most loving Father at that, who would rather let heaven and earth collapse than abandon anyone who trusted in him.
The Passion of Christ is the greatest and most stupendous work of Divine Love. The greatest and most overwhelming work of God's love.
Be very careful to retain peace of heart, because Satan casts his lines in troubled waters.
Place your hopes in the mercy of God and the merits of our Redeemer; say often, looking at the crucifix: There are centred all my hopes.
Let everything in creation draw you to God. Refresh your mind with some innocent recreation and needful rest, if it were only to saunter through the garden or the fields, listening to the sermon preached by the flowers, the trees, the meadows, the sun, the sky, and the whole universe. You will find that they exhort you to love and praise God; that they excite you to extol the greatness of the Sovereign Architect Who has given them their being.
I tell you that victory consists in conquering self. That is the greatest enemy.
Meditation on Jesus Christ crucified is a precious balm that sweetens all pains.
Celebrate the feast of Christmas every day, even every moment in the interior temple of your spirit, remaining like a baby in the bosom of the heavenly Father, where you will be reborn each moment in the Divine Word, Jesus Christ.
Here learn the science of the Saints: All is to be found in the passion of Jesus. Make every effort to remain hidden in the wounds of Jesus, and you will be enriched with every good and every true light, enabling you to fly to that Perfection that is consonant with your way of life.
He that rises after his falls, with confidence in God and profound humility of heart, will become, in God's hands, a proper instrument for the accomplishment of great things; but he who acts otherwise can never do any good.
In uniting yourself to God's will, you take on new life and gather great courage, willingly embracing the cross and kissing His hand even when it chastises you, a hand that reaches out to you in love and has no other intention but your greater spiritual well-being.
When you feel the assaults of passion and anger, then is the time to be silent as Jesus was silent in the midst of His ignominies and sufferings.
You do wrong to complain of your crosses and sufferings. Believe me, you know not what it is to suffer. God preserve you from suffering even one day what has been endured by a certain soul, whose name I must not disclose!
Avoid failing, not only against purity, but even against the least rules of an exact modesty.
Let weak and frail man come here suppliantly to adore the Sacrament of Christ, not to discuss high things, or wish to penetrate difficulties, but to bow down to secret things in humble veneration, and to abandon God's mysteries to God, for Truth deceives no man- Almighty God can do all things. Amen.
The Wisdom of Saint John Paul II:
The future starts today, not tomorrow.
Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.
As the family goes, so goes the nation and so goes the whole world in which we live.
Science can purify religion from error and superstition. Religion can purify science from idolatry and false absolutes.
Love is never defeated, and I could add, the history of Ireland proves it.
THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
The readings this weekend speak of God who is not aloof or uninterested, but rather, God who is right there in the midst of us, sharing our suffering and pain, taking on our human condition, and lifting us up and helping people in very practical and compassionate ways…. God who gets his hands dirty and is one of us and among us to help us… to save us…..
Jesus reiterates the ways of God - humility, service, self-sacrifice…….- "…Anyone who wants to become great among you must be your servant, and anyone who wants to be first among you must be a slave to all. For the Son of Man, himself did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'
Jesus Chris loved us SO much, that he gave himself up for us, completely. Jesus, sacrificed himself to save us. He became like a slave for us.
As the second reading says; We have a God who is able to sympathise with us in our weaknesses, because Jesus has shared our human nature and experienced human weakness, suffering, pain, and temptation just like we all have.
Jesus DOES indeed know what it is like for us to experience difficulties of every kind, and he promises to walk with us and support us in the challenges and suffering of life.
There is a saying, "I am only human," and whilst it is good to acknowledge that we are fallible and that we can all make mistakes, that excuse can sometimes be used to justify us remaining stuck in behaviours that are destructive and in choices that are decidedly not consistent with Christs' gospel message.
Sure, we are human, we are fallible - but, we are also called to share in Christ's divine life….
So, whilst God is understanding, sympathetic and forgiving, this is even more reason why we need to dedicate ourselves to rise above the sinful and destructive behaviours that we find ourselves in.
God's forgiveness and our human weakness is never an invitation to say, 'this is all I am and this is all I can be. I will not change, and will always wallow in my weaknesses.' Rather, we are inspired by God's tender mercy and compassion so that we then take up our cross and keep travelling along the journey of conversion - persevere along the path of holiness, and constantly ask God to foster in us the virtues that will transform our weaknesses and make us more and more like Jesus and his values….
Our weaknesses are a reality that can be a big obstacle in our path to increased holiness. However, it is no excuse for stopping in our tracks! Our weaknesses are real, but are never a reason to stay 'stuck in patterns of sin.' We need the help of God's grace to achieve this.
Jesus is the ultimate example of not only "God made flesh" but also of humanity fully alive and glorified. The saints; (those holy women and men who led lives of service, sacrifice and holiness), remind us that, despite our limitations and infirmities, it is possible and necessary to keep moving forward in the path of holiness. Settling for less is not God's call for us.
The journey we are on is one that is 'walking a fine line.' We live in a way that means we never give up because of the sins and failures we experience in our lives, and we always gratefully accept the new start that God gives us through God's compassion and mercy, but at the same time, we never allow our weaknesses to cause us to presume on God's mercy - thinking we can choose to do wrong because we know God will forgive us afterwards.
The gospel today is very fitting too…..
The disciples, (poor disciples!) have got it wrong .......again!!
Here are James and John coming up to Jesus and insisting that he give them places of honour and privilege in his Kingdom. How selfish, how proud, how indulgent!
The other disciples are angry at them, but perhaps because they too wanted those seats, (those privileges), and how dare others to ask for what they wanted! Jesus tries to show them (and us) that they have totally missed the point.
It is not even JESUS who allots everyone's place in Heaven. It is THE HEAVENLY FATHER. And the places will be allotted to people who have given themselves wholly to God's loving ways. Those who have suffered greatly to bring others to the good news of Christ; (those who have sacrificed themselves in loving and self-giving service), and certainly not to those seeking self-indulgence, privilege and prestige. How wrong these disciples are (in this matter at least)! These places cannot be earned without the CROSS, which is encountered in every disciple's life.
Jesus asks us to get rid of any kind of self-satisfaction, self-indulgence and pride. He shows us how to let go of our selfishness and give ourselves fully to others in service.
It is good for us to reflect deeply on this, (each of us individually, in our prayer can ask ourselves)....." what motivates my actions?" Really, what are my motives and priorities? What are the things that motivate me in what I do in the church and in my daily life?…." Do I do things because I expect something back? Do I do it because I want a prestigious place of honour or a personal benefit for myself or those close to me?" The gospel today, and many more like it, challenges us: We must know, that this is not what Christ is calling us to.
Service and love, (done with Jesus' gospel values), are their own sweet reward. and with no other expectation of reward or honour. personal accolades, Personal reward, self-satisfaction – none of these are consistent with Jesus message. Self-surrender, being servants to God and his message, compassion, self-sacrifice, loving service, mercy; this is consistent with Jesus' message.
Let us ask the Lord to lovingly show us our weaknesses, help us to trust in Gods mercy and compassion. Prevent us from ever presuming on your mercy, Lord, or boldly continuing to live wrongly and indulgently. Graciously spur us on, to keep going along the path to holiness. And. Lord, please inspire us to give selflessly and lovingly and to serve others as you did.
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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 Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 177283565- Modern stained glass window depicting a pelican wounding its breast to feed its young, an ancient Christian symbol of Jesus Christ and his Passion and Crucifixion. By Nancy Bauer)
POPE FRANCIS: Pope Francis has released his message for World Diocesan Youth Day.
Pope Francis has released his message calling young people to "bear witness" ahead of Diocesan World Youth Day, which will take place on 21 November 2021 and is part of preparations for the 2023 World Youth Day in Lisbon.
The theme of the day will be "Arise. I appoint you as a witness of what you have seen" (Acts 26:16), based on St Paul's conversion to Christianity. The theme centred around the role that young people have to play in the world in Church life and in public life.
The Pope acknowledged that the Covid-19 pandemic had presented particular difficulties for young people:
"The health emergency was a particular setback for young people, for your life is naturally directed outwards: towards school or university, to work and social gatherings. You found yourselves in difficult situations that you were not used to facing," he said.
The Pope noted that young people saw a "rise in family problems, unemployment, depression, loneliness, and addictive behaviour" but also said that throughout the pandemic young people had helped to "build bridges" and acted as "peacemakers".
In his speech, the Pope also told young people: "Only a personal and non-anonymous encounter with Christ changes lives. Jesus shows that he knows Saul very well, inside out."
He also spoke about St Paul's conversion: "Paul's conversion did not involve turning back, but being open to a completely new way of things. He continued his journey to Damascus but something had changed."
The Pope continued saying: "The Lord, the Church and the Pope trust you and appoint you to bear witness before all those other young people whom you will encounter on today's road to Damascus."
This year's World Youth Day will be held locally in individual dioceses, and the Pope described the day as part of the "spiritual pilgrimage leading to the celebration of the 2023 World Youth Day".
Pope Francis concluded his speech calling young people to "arise together" and "become the prophets of a new and hope-filled future".
Read more at ref: https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/14557/pope-calls-on-young-people-to-bear-witness-?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tablet%20weekly%205%20October%202021&utm_content=Tablet%20weekly%205%20October%202021+CID_18c5ebe9b796118fbaa8c99fea85f274&utm_source=SxTabNews_v1&utm_term=has%20released%20his%20message%20calling%20young%20people
(Image - The Tablet). .
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
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).
SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS
We all know Christmas is just around the corner.
The Parish has just received the latest Christmas catalogue for you to peruse. If you would like a copy text/ring Pat 0404 805 819 or email her at svcoordinator40@gmail.com and a copy will be emailed to you.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP
The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays, from 9 to 12. Activities include art, (watercolour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink drawing etc), as well as various kinds of Craftwork (Knitting, Embroidery, Crocheting, Cardmaking, Sewing etc.), making Rosary Beads (later sent to the missions), and any other activities that individuals may 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, phone John 0412 759205, or the Parish Office.
SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC LADIES FRIENDSHIP DAY - Thursday 21st October
10 am to 2.00 pm- At the Parish Hospitality Centre, Clear Island Waters. Usual Fun and Bingo.
Raffle and Lucky Door Prizes. All Welcome.
Contact Maxine Sela: 0421 051 193 if attending
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-around fitness class for over 65's. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome.
Contact Rochelle for further information on 0438 333 308.
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.
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
E-BOOK BY BRIAN BONIWELL
"Opening to God: Christian Meditation and Contemplative Prayer."
One of our parishioners, and well-known composer, Brian Boniwell has just had a new book published by Willow Communications.
Willow Publishing has just released an eBook for Brian entitled "Opening to God: Christian Meditation and Contemplative Prayer."
It is available for download from the Willow website.
https://willowpublishing.com.au/product/opening-to-god/
Opening to God | Willow Publishing
Christian meditation and contemplative prayer. How to become more present to God, to ourselves and others. Explores transformation and spiritual union, ego-consciousness in our relationships with God, others and the environment.
Prayers and blessings
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 - 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. For more information and resources on Safeguarding our community, please see: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/
Children and vulnerable adults have intrinsic rights to dignity of life, respect and security from physical and emotional harm.
For more information, please see: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/
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