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Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish

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

Sunday, December 5th, 2021

Second Sunday Advent. Year C

Readings for Sunday, December 5, 2021 - Second Sunday Advent. Year C

FIRST READING: Baruch 5: 1-9

Psalm 126: 1-2a, 2b-3, 4-5, 6 "The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy. "

SECOND READING: Philippians 1: 4-6, 8-11

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 3: 4+6): Alleluia, alleluia! Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths: all people shall see the salvation of God. Alleluia!

GOSPEL: Luke 3: 1-6

"A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him" - (Luke 3: 4)

(Image: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 1724584795- Vienna, Austria. 2019/10/23. "Preaching of Saint John the Baptist" by Jacob (Jacques) de Gheyn II (1565-1629). Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) in Vienna. Vienna, Austria -By Adam Jan Figel)

PASTOR'S POST: Christmas Lists!

"There's just too much to do at this time of year!" How many times have we thought, or heard someone exclaim this! Write a list. Sometimes it's the only way to get things attended to. I know, we should have learned from last year, and the ten years before that, that if we start planning in August then we can avoid the mad rush of December. But I should have written this in August if only I had remembered to put it on the list. Anyway, good intentions and all that, it's the season of writing 'to do,' lists, of feeling proud of ourselves when we cross off all the items.

But notice, the list never seems to get shorter, there is always just one more thing to do. One more person to invite, card to write, present to wrap and relative to call. To make matters worse, St. Paul, in Thessalonians 5:16-18, adds three more things to our list – "Be happy at all times; pray constantly; and for all things give thanks to God." Clearly, he didn't have a busy family life, and possibly the Christmas break-up parties hadn't been invented then, so we'll give him a bit of slack for his naiveté. In fact, he probably didn't even know about Christmas back then. Who has got the time for all that? Before we dismiss Paul as being a Pollyanna or kid ourselves that when things slow down, after Christmas, we will begin to carry out these commands, let's take a closer look at what Paul might be encouraging us to do.

Happiness is one of those elusive things that we can never quite grasp. The quality of happiness Paul is speaking of is not some sort of passing pleasure, nor the absence of suffering, but rather that deep happiness that has its roots in the knowledge that, despite evidence to the contrary, God's is with us and God does act in our time. We too can know this happiness when we live as if we believe that God is truly with us. And therein lies the problem. Do we mostly believe that God is somewhere around, in the general area, but is God really with us? If we actually believed that then it would not be an imposition or burden to do as Paul suggests. We would be conscious of a constant being in our life, like a parent or a child. Someone whose very presence gives us a feeling of contentment, security and purpose. God wouldn't become an afterthought that is usually accompanied by some sense of guilt that we have put other things before God. It's not intentional, it's just another thing on our list that seems to fall somewhere near the bottom when we are loaded up with activities and people, all pushed into this tiny season called 'Christmas".

It is this eye to the reign of God in our day that helps us to pray constantly, not in some literal sense, but in our attitude of openness to God and God's ways. Christians inherited from our Jewish ancestors the practice of turning to God in prayer at the beginning and end of each day, of making holy the day but acknowledging that it is God's time and God's gift to us.

And if we do this, we cannot but be grateful, because we see in all things, both great and small, God's presence with us. The exhortation of St. Paul does not need to be listed along with other chores, but rather to shape our attitude to living, so that this Advent season may truly be a time of joy as we await the fullness of God's kingdom for ourselves and the entire creation.

Fr Peter Dillon. PP

Best wishes to our students, families and staff and teachers of our local schools, as they begin their Christmas holiday break. May God bless and renew you over this time, and bring you safely to and from your diestinations.

We congratulate the Marques Costa Leite, Scott and Tabada families, whose children Mateo Cruz, Weston Reeve and Aila Amari will be baptised in our Parish this weekend. Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey.

SAINT VINCENT de PAUL CHRISTMAS GIFTS AND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Our Annual request for Gifts has begun with the distribution of Scrolls. We would appreciate it if you could take some scrolls and bring the nominated gifts to the church and place them under the Christmas Tree. Your generous assistance in donating gifts for the Christmas Hampers is greatly appreciated.

The Annual Christmas Appeal will be conducted this weekend (4th and 5th of December), at all churches with a leaving collection. Your generous donations over the years have assisted us in giving our Companions a great Christmas with food, gifts and toys for the children. This year due to the current rental crisis on the Gold Coast, there will be more Families and Single Companions requesting a Christmas Hamper. Please give generously. God Bless. Craig McMahon, Conference President - Surfers Paradise.

+++++++

To be part of the Children's Nativity Play

at the Christmas Vigil Mass, Friday, December 24 at 5 pm

All children who would like to be part of the Nativity Play that will be included as the gospel for the Christmas Vigil Mass are invited to attend three practices. Practices will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Monday, Dec 20th, Wednesday, Dec 22nd and Thursday, Dec 23rd at 1 pm.

Our Children's Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson and our parish Music Coordinator, Christeen Harth will organise the practices. Any parents or parishioners with an interest in or willingness to assist are asked to email Cathy at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au

If your child is unable to come to the practices, they are still invited to dress up as any character from the Nativity story so that they can be part of the celebration on December 24. (While we welcome lots of angels and shepherds, we would also love to have some sheep and cattle costumes too.)

FUNERAL FOR THE LATE SHIRLEY RYAN

Our beloved parishioner Mrs Shirley Ryan has passed away. We commend her to God's loving care. Shirley returns to the Lord whom she served with such love and devotion her whole life.

Our prayers and sympathies are with her daughter Skylah, and all Shirley's family and friends. Skylah has requested that funeral details for her mother Shirley Ryan be notified to all.

The Funeral will be on Monday, December 6th, 2021 at 10 am - with a rosary prayer beginning at 9.30 am at St. Brigid's Catholic Church Nerang. 39-49 McLaren Rd, Nerang QLD 4211

May Shirley Rest in Peace. Amen.

Rest in Peace, Shirley Patricia Ryan (1930-2021)

WE LIGHT THE SECOND ADVENT CANDLE

We continue on our Advent journey. This weekend we light the second Advent candle. The "Bethlehem Candle" - symbolizes the journey of Faith. Reminding us of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem.

Lord Jesus. You call us to prepare your way, making the paths straight. You promise to bring to completion the good work you have begun in us. O Wisdom, Come to teach us the way of truth!

(Shutterstock licensed image ID: 512104723 -Advent Candles and Creche Week 2 -By Lisa Missenda)

ADVENT RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN

Advent resources are available - to help parishes, schools and families prepare throughout Advent and then explore the Christmas message. Evangelisation Brisbane has developed some resources, including a free advent calendar and Christmas story booklet with puppets to make. Just watch the video here: https://youtu.be/5Ea3L2DQc_A and download the free resources here: https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/shop/free-resources/

LATEST EDITION OF LITURGY NEWS (FREE) ARCHDIOCESAN PUBLICATION

https://www.liturgybrisbane.net.au/resources/liturgy-news/issues/vol-51-no-4-december-2021/

(Vol 51 No 4 December 2021).

Here is an excerpt:

To Boldly Go… By Fr Elich, Tom

The timid are often tempted to turn back to what is familiar, to take refuge in the securities of the past. Sixty years ago, we moved the altar forward and the priest faced the people as they celebrated Eucharist. Some were alarmed that this placed too much focus on the priest and his actions. So a movement grew advocating that churches revert to an arrangement where priests and people all faced towards the East together. The problem however was not that we had gone too far; it was that we had not gone far enough. We need to take the next step and place the altar and the priest in the midst of the assembly. Grouped around the altar rather than sitting in rows 'facing the front,' people can begin to understand that all share in the liturgical offering made at the altar. This is the 'full, conscious, active participation' that the Vatican Council set out as the liturgical norm. The Council calls us to boldly go where no one has gone before, so to speak, in finding new ways to implement its vision.

Such a bold, forward-looking perspective is characteristic of Pope Francis' leadership of the Church and is enshrined in several recent Roman documents. The pope has encouraged us to find new pastoral ways of including those who are marginalised in the Church's liturgy, from the divorced and remarried, to those in same-sex relationships, to peoples living in the Amazon.

Another challenge to be bold comes with Pope Francis' provisions overturning Benedict XVI's normalisation of the old liturgical forms from the 1950s which predate the reform of the Vatican Council. Those who have embraced the liturgical use of the Council of Trent appear to have taken fright at a liturgy that is more extroverted. They fear that, with the assembly singing and responding, with everyone exchanging the peace and receiving communion in the hand, there is a loss of reverence and a sense of the sacred. They seek a return to the more introverted silence of the Tridentine rite, which is deemed to be more meditative and holy. They insist they do not want to be divisive and they maintain that they accept the reforms of Vatican II. But the Tridentine rite does not express the theology of the Church as the Vatican Council presents it. The Church is the whole community of the baptised and the liturgy is the communal action of the entire people of God. The active participation of all is both demanded by the nature of the liturgy itself and is also the right and duty of the baptised.

The thinking underlying the liturgical reform is challenging and may be difficult for some. However, we need to respond not by retreating into familiar and comfortable forms, but rather by moving forward boldly. We need to ensure that the reformed liturgy manifests more clearly the sense of the sacred, making space for the silence in which we receive God's revelation. We need to make our liturgical symbols and actions so beautiful, so authentic, that they do speak to us of the saving action of Christ. If we stepped forward more boldly, there might be less reason for others to retreat.

The use of the vernacular in the liturgy is another evocative example. Since the use of the mother tongue, whether in the Mass, the administration of the sacraments, or other parts of the liturgy, frequently may be of great advantage to the people, the limits of its use may be extended, declared the Vatican Council (SC 36.2). The vernacular took hold very quickly, more quickly than anyone had imagined. Soon the whole liturgy was spoken aloud and everyone could understand what they were listening to and praying. We were delighted that the words of Scripture and liturgical prayer came spontaneously to our lips.

Once again, however, gradually a reaction began to develop. How could we speak to God in the normal language of everyday life? Should we not have something more formal, more strange, for our liturgical language? Some remembered prayers in the old hand missals which read like this: Quickened by thy holy gift, we give thee thanks, O Lord, and we beseech thy mercy, that thou wouldst make us worthy to partake of it (Postcommunion, 18th Sunday after Pentecost). The reaction of retreat culminated in 2001 with the Holy See's instruction Liturgiam Authenticam. It deliberately set aside contemporary usage in favour of what it called 'sacral language'. Style manuals for good English were explicitly rejected in favour of a word-for-word rendering of the normative Latin. For over a decade now we have been praying the Mass with convoluted sentences, exclusive language, strange words like oblation and addressing God as your majesty.

In 2017, Pope Francis turned back this retreat, changed the Code of Canon Law, and urged bishops conferences to take charge once again of producing and approving authentic vernacular translations. The boldness of Magnum Principium took bishops by surprise. The English-speaking bishops were paralysed and sought clarification. The post-conciliar vision of the vernacular was indeed being reinstated: [In translating biblical and liturgical texts] it is necessary to communicate to a given people using its own language all that the Church intended to communicate to other people through the Latin language.

Now a new document (Postquam Summus Pontifex) published on 22 October 2021 spells it out in great detail. What is a faithful translation? The adverb 'faithfully' implies a threefold fidelity: firstly to the original text, secondly to the particular language into which it is translated and finally to the comprehension of the text by the addressees who are introduced to the vocabulary of biblical revelation and liturgical tradition (PSP 20). The third element here recognises that the liturgy is a means of oral communication and so attention must be given to the fact that the texts are intended for proclamation, for listening to, and for choral recitation and singing.

So after two decades or more of looking backwards, we are again encouraged to look forward boldly. After a 25-year struggle, we have the green light to move ahead with a new Lectionary translation. The possibility of revising the prayers of the Missal, which the Australian bishops have been considering, is now a real possibility. The 1998 Revised Sacramentary, which at the time was roundly rejected by the Holy See, will be resurrected and will help us to boldly go… into a new era.

For the whole free publication of Liturgy News please visit - https://www.liturgybrisbane.net.au/resources/liturgy-news/issues/vol-51-no-4-december-2021/

COVID SAFETY RULES AT PRESENT

We have received a number of questions this week from parishes regarding the vaccination protocols. I thought it may be helpful to share those questions and responses with all of you. I hope this information may be of assistance.

Do people need to be vaccinated to attend Mass?

No. Everyone is welcome to attend a Mass or liturgy regardless of their vaccination status. Places of Worship are not subject to vaccination restrictions. This remains the same once the borders open.

Are we required to check the vaccination status of parishioners and visitors at Churches?

No. At this time, you are not required to check the vaccination status of those attending places of worship. Please share this information with your volunteers and marshals. The Queensland government continues to require people to use the Check-In Qld App when entering places of worship.

What are the occupancy requirements for Christmas Masses?

At this time, the occupancy for Christmas Masses remains the same as current occupancy restrictions for places of worship. The following limits apply (this also includes baptisms) with the use of the COVID Safe Checklist.

• 1 person per 2 square metres indoors

What is the occupancy for weddings and funerals?

• From 17 December, weddings will have no capacity limit if only fully vaccinated people attend. If anyone attending a wedding is unvaccinated, it is restricted to a maximum of 20 people.

• Funerals will not be limited to only vaccinated people. Funerals are required to adhere to the current limits:

o 1 person per 2 square metres for areas open to or used by guests or patrons, or

o 200 people, or

Thank you all for your wonderful work and ministry and patience in these difficult times.

A VOCATION VIEW:

Advent Week 2:

Who, today, is willing to make ready the way of the Lord to clear Him a straight path?

The word of God becomes the flesh of God when YOU live it in your life. Believe what you read; live what you believe. Be another Christ. To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544 vocation@bne.catholic.net.au vocationbrisbane.com

FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON

Please Don't Ask The Coordinator To Turn Them Off. Also, to assist with airflow in the hot and humid temperatures, please don't stop the assistants from opening the doors.

They Are Following Church Health and Safety instructions.

It may be necessary to relocate to another seat that may better suit your needs or bring something warm to put on. (Please note, after mass has begun. Side doors are opened, - so please expect that to happen when you are deciding where to sit. We cannot set the conditions for each individual.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

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 December)

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

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.

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 the tick before entering the church. If you are unable to get the App, only then are you required to write down your name and contact number.

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.

STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION

"And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value…" (Philippians 1:9-10)

During the Christmas shopping season, it is easy to get caught up in the frenzy of buying gifts. But, is that "gift" truly an expression of your love for the other person? Or, are you just fulfilling your "obligation" to give them something? To grow in friendship with someone, you need to spend time with them, learn what is of value to them. Maybe this year, buy less "stuff" and spend more time with those you love.

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

IN OUR PRAYERS

FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Dominique Corbello, Amelia Hoffman, Jean Di Benedetto, Anthea McMullan, James Goodwin, Scott Mitchell, Malcolm Ward, John O'Brien, Ludwig Mueller, Bobby Caspersz, Kent Vince, Terry Collins, Colleen Grehan, Carmelita Dulu, Judy Alexander, Sr Mary Teresa, John Davis, Peter Cotton, Bobby Courtney, Lisa Mangan, Doreen Slater, Christina Hendriksen, Robyn Skein, Sharyn Lucas, Kye Oh, 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, 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, Michael & Denise Tracey, Joanne Mooney, Joanne Parkes, Michelle MacDonald, John & Molly Robinson, Mary Kerr. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.

The Funeral of Mrs Shirley Ryan will be on Monday, December 6th, 2021 at 10 am - with a rosary prayer beginning at 9.30 am at St. Brigid's Catholic Church Nerang. 39-49 McLaren Rd, Nerang QLD 4211

May Shirley Rest in Peace. Amen.

RECENTLY DECEASED: Bill Goodrem, Herbert Dawson, Shirley Ryan, Wayne Allan Pearce, Shane Burgess, Regina Flemming, Thomas James Burns, Margaret MacLennon, Margaret Ross, Patricia Heenan, Janora Senders, Carl Tamer, Kurt Hillesheim, Sam Maxwell, Anne Ryan, Glennis Ann Lamb, Philomena Molloy, John Newell, Bridget Colman, Cathay Egan, John Bullied, Odette Hull, Lorraine Grace, Andrew Kennedy, Mona Cooke, Keiran John Ryan, Marta Goran, Betty Leighton (Sydney), Antonio Cruz, Clara Yepes, Alberta Antonio, Mark Patrick, Donna Farkas, Robyn Colhoun, Brian Cole, Francis Monera.

ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Colin Peter Randazzo, Caterina Randazzo, Fr Keith Turner CSSR, Ana Marie Bonet, Jack Bonet, Owen Louis Ryan, Marko Jaksic, Fabian McCarthy (Fr Michael's Father), John McKinstry, Owen Louis Ryan, Kevin Francis Ryan, Norman John Desmond (Des) White, Joseph Nazari, Dawn Turner, Mello Scharenguivel, Albina Kristina Vah. And also: Joan Valmae Stewart, Fr Neal Shannon, Arnold Jones, Anna Guila Diepold, Barbara Anne Farrell, "Aaiden/ Kaiden (Joseph) Ng", Angela Radin, Jan Hart, Michelina Pernazza, Peter John Llewellyn, Elda Ferluga, Howard John (John) Jones, Kenneth Rex (Rex) Howard, Doris Catherine Mathews, Beth Green.

URGENT -Visitation to Nursing Homes with Communion and Prayers URGENT

We are desperately short of Ministers to take communion to the following Nursing Homes.

Lady Small Haven, Benowa. Tuesdays 9.30 am to 11.00 am
Merrimac Park Private Care, Merrimac. Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm
Bupa Nursing Home, Merrimac. Thursdays 9.30 am to 11.00 am
Hillview Nursing Home, Merrimac. Fridays 9.45 to 12.00 noon
Tricare Cyprus Nursing Home, Clear Island Waters. Sundays 9.00 am

The Visitation to the Home could take a Maximum of 3 hours and Ministers will be rostered to work for one day in a month. You will be assisted in training and getting a Blue Card along with a Police Check

CAN YOU SPARE 3 HOURS A MONTH TO TAKE OUR LORD TO THE ELDERLY IN THESE HOMES ????

For further information ring the Parish Office, or Maxine Sela on 0421051193.

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

CHILDREN'S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM

BAPTISM for Children 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.

Sacrament of PENANCE - Reconciliation 2022

In the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Reconciliation follows the Sacraments of Initiation. That is, Reconciliation, also known as Penance, follows the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, and the receiving of a child's First Communion. The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team is preparing a program similar in style to the Confirmation and First Communion At Home Preparation Programs. If your child was previously enrolled in the Surfers Paradise Parish Sacramental Program and then was either confirmed or made their First Communion in Surfers Paradise, there is no requirement for you to complete a new online enrolment form. Families of enrolled children will receive an emailed invitation to the Meeting for the Sacrament of Penance Preparation early in 2022. It will be held on either February 21, 2022, at 6 pm or February 22, 2022, at 6 pm (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 Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 6:30 pm.

If you have further questions, please email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au

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 at 6 pm or April 27 at 6 pm. (Parents can choose to attend one of these meetings but do not need to attend both. Only children who are represented by a parent at one of these meetings will be included in the First Communion Preparation Program.) The Preparation for First Communion Program will be similar in format to the At Home Preparation for Confirmation Program. There will also be a Final Meeting (including rehearsal) in the week prior to the Celebration of First Communion either Tuesday, April 6 at 6 pm or Wednesday, April 27 at 6 pm.

First Communion will be celebrated on Sunday, June 12 at 11:00 am and Sunday, June 19 at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church (Children will be included in one of these celebrations, not both.) The Sacramental Team will email a reminder to parents late in Term 1.

Sacrament of CONFIRMATION 2022

Baptised children who are in Year 3 or greater are invited to be included in next year's Preparation for Confirmation group. Parents are asked to go to the parish website at 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.

In 2022, you will receive an invitation email several weeks prior to the Parent Meeting which is to be held either Monday, July 11 at 6 pm or Tuesday, July 12 at 6 pm in Sacred Heart Church. (Parents are asked to choose to attend one of these meetings but do not need to attend both. Only children who are represented by a parent at one of these meetings will be included in the Confirmation Preparation Program.) After the Parent Meeting, parents will be emailed copies of the At Home Preparation for Confirmation Program to be completed by the child and their parent/s, and then returned to the Sacramental Team. The Final Meeting which includes the rehearsal for Confirmation will be held on Monday, August 29 at 6 pm or Tuesday, August 30 at 6 pm (Children and parents are required to attend one of these meetings, not both.)

The Celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation will take place in Surfers Paradise Parish on Friday, September 2, 2022.

All families wishing to be involved in our parish sacramental programs should regularly check the weekly newsletter for information updates or they can email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au The newsletters are archived on our parish website at www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au

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).

THE GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND - ADVENT 2 - YEAR C

John the Baptist boldly proclaims that the Messiah's arrival (long foretold and expected for generations), was now imminent.

The image of roads being straightened and mountains levelled is a great image about a journey. All humans are on a lifelong journey towards God's house where we are all invited to be members of God's family. The straight paths, the flattened mountains, the filled-in valleys also make it quite clear that all people are called and invited; people of every race, nation and language, and religion are invited. The paths must be straight to allow people to approach and to allow us to approach God.

"men and women who are more equal and more respectful of others' dignity, are the best way for God's salvation to come." [II]

It is TIME!

Time to get ready for the arrival of the Son of Man; the Lamb of God who will take away the sins of the world. It is time to prepare the way, and level the mountains, and straighten the pathways. It is TIME, to repent of our sins and be ready to welcome God's chosen one and his Kingdom.

It is one thing to repent of our sins out of fear – fear of God's punishment or anger. But it is quite another to repent of our sins and wrongdoing because we are so sorry that our sin has grieved God's heart and worked against the values of the Kingdom. There is nothing quite so devastating as seeing a parent disappointed and let down by our actions. That cuts deeper than anything. God's disappointment can spur us on to love more closely according to God's vision, than merely doing the right thing out of a sense of duty.

We want to repent and be better, more loving, more just and more forgiving, faithful children of God, not because we fear God's anger and punishment but because we love God, and God loves us infinitely. And we cannot bear to cause God grief and disappointment when we may not have lived up to the ways that God lovingly calls us to live.

The readings give us some food for thought. There are a few really beautiful lines of Scripture: The Lord will grant us "Peace through integrity, and honour through devotion" -- This is the way of true peace from God: by walking in the ways of integrity and doing what is right, come what may. Despite the storms and shocks of life, God's peace is attained from being united with Christ, and walking in his ways of justice and love. God's peace will sustain and guide us.

Our conscientiousness and devotion to the Word of God, and to prayer and good works will give us fulfilment in a way that nothing else could.

And the wonderful words of St Paul from the second reading, (it is one of the most beautiful and touching passages in the Scriptures): "My prayer is that your love for each other may increase more and more, and never stop improving your knowledge and deepening your perception so that you can always recognise what is best."

May we always do what is best by an increase of knowledge and perception that can only come from a deepening (day by day) of our love. That theme of ever-deepening love and practical kindness has been flowing through the Scriptures of late, and rightly so. It reminds me of that other quote from Scripture. "By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another." (John 13:35).

The central trait and quality of a true Christian, (a disciple of Christ, and friend of Jesus), is not first and foremost a merely visible keeping of every rule and regulation, not first of all their bold and unbending speaking out against all that is wrong and bad in the world. Our discipleship is not primarily about the eloquence, length or frequency of one's daily prayers, (for as St Paul said elsewhere: "if I did all those things but did them without love, it would do me NO GOOD whatsoever!!" - And so, being a more loving, compassionate, merciful and reverent person, and deepening our love that derives from God who is love, and having the fruits of that love show in our words, our actions and our priorities and choices … now THAT is something .. in fact, that is everything…

In this coming week, let us ask God to show us the paths that need straightening. the barriers that need lowering… For this is the time and season for intense and urgent preparation and conversion so that we might love more deeply, as Christ does, and so that everything we do may flow from and find its source and destination in God, who is LOVE.

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: ACTION 2000 – PRAYING SCRIPTURE IN A CONTEMPORARY WAY. YEAR C. BY MARK LINK S.J.; [ii] SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ).

(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1972030007 -

Valenciennes, France. 2019-09-12. Preaching of Saint John the Baptist by Frans Pourbus the Elder (1575-1643). Museum of Fine Arts in Valenciennes, France.- 59300 Valenciennes, France - By Adam Jan Figel)

TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - The source of our "Inspo" -

The Bible has been and continues to be a treasure of inspiration, (or "inspo" to the younger set), guiding us through the difficult, ordinary, and joyful moments of everyday life. Instead of tweets, there are verses; instead of hashtags, there are the great biblical themes of creation, love, mercy, and faithfulness. #awesome. Even better than tweets and hashtags, however, is the fact that 'inspo' for Christians is not just a feel-good motivation; it is also a real-time experience of God. God inspires—"in-spirits"—us. God breathes God's very spirit with us. What does or could this "inspo" mean for you today?

(Luke 21:29-33 (507). "Know that the Kingdom of God is near").

ADULT FAITH ENRICHMENT: REFLECTION & BIBLE STUDY

NEXT SESSION - SUNDAY MORNING 5th December 2021

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

EPIC A Journey Through Church History.

Join us for the summary of the final Episode of the section on Weak Leaders and Schism 1300 - 1499 AD

Heresy never sleeps in the Church and the main actors in this scene are Jan Hus and John Wyclif who preach a "new gospel" that rejects the sacraments, denies the rights of the Church, abolishes the power of the pope, and lauds Sacred Scripture as the ultimate and only authoritative source of God's divine revelation. We hear the true story around the Spanish Inquisition based on the official records kept at the time.

St Joan of Arc steps forward to defend France, taking charge of an army at the age of seventeen.

Constantinople finally falls to Islam and this is the finish of the Roman Empire. As Islam gains ground in the East it is finally defeated in the West.

Back in Rome, wealth has gutted the Chair of Peter; a long line of men known as the Renaissance popes usher in a new age of learning and splendour. They commissioned some of the greatest artists of all time, such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo Da Vinci, to create works of unparalleled beauty. But the price of this great art is a culture of decadence, and the Renaissance popes behave more as temporal princes than as holy priests. No one, however, can compare to Rodrigo Borgia, the infamous Pope Alexander VI, who shamelessly besmirches the papacy with a life of lust and greed. It is a black and selfish time, and men's hearts have grown cold. The breaking of Christendom is close at hand.

The episode we will commence this Sunday is

Protestors & Defenders 1500 - 1544 AD.

Martin Luther enters the stage of the divine drama with the revolt that culminates in the breaking of Christendom and the shattering of Christian unity, the effects of which are still felt today. Initially upset at erroneous preaching concerning indulgences, Luther soon articulates more radical ideas, such as the desire to eradicate the Mass, the entire sacramental and priestly system, and the papacy, which he calls the Antichrist. The Church initially responds with letters and meetings and sends Cardinal Cajetan to bring Luther back into the fold but Luther responds by insulting the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Finally, Pope Leo X condemns Luther's teaching and orders him to submit to the obedience of the Church for the good of his soul and the rest is history…….

INSPIRING QUOTES OF THE SAINTS:

St Nicholas

"The giver of every good and perfect gift has called upon us to imitate God's giving, by grace, through faith, and this is not of ourselves." - St. Nicholas of Myra

St Ambrose

"No one heals himself by wounding another."
"If you have two shirts in your closet, one belongs to you and the other to the man with no shirt."
"Father, if possible, take away this cup from me." Many cling to this text in order to use the sadness of the Savior as proof that he had weakness from the beginning rather than taking it on for a time. In this way, they distort the natural meaning of the sentence. I, however, consider it not only as something that does not need to be excused but nowhere else do I admire more his tender love and majesty. He would have given me less, had he not taken on my emotions. Thus he suffered affliction for me, he who did not have to suffer anything for himself. Setting aside the enjoyment of his divinity, he is afflicted with the annoyance of my weakness. He took on my sadness so that he might bestow on me his joy. He descended into the anguish of death by following in our footsteps so that he might call us back to life by following in his footsteps. I do not hesitate to speak of sadness since I am preaching the cross; he took on not the appearance but the reality of the Incarnation. Thus, instead of avoiding it, he had to take on the pain in order to overcome sadness."
"modesty, for that is the friend and ally of calmness of mind."
"Death was not part of nature; it became part of nature. God did not decree death from the beginning; he prescribed it as a remedy. Human life was condemned because of sin to unremitting labour and unbearable sorrow and so began to experience the burden of wretchedness. There had to be a limit to its evils; death had to restore what life had forfeited. Without the assistance of grace, immortality is more of a burden than a blessing."
"Woman, the child of so many tears shall never perish." ― St. Ambrose, spoken in response to Saint Monica who begged for Ambrose' help in the conversion of her son Augustine.
"The practice of perfect virtue does not require teaching, but instructs others."
"If force is used, I cannot meet it. I shall be able to grieve, to weep, to groan; against weapons, soldiers, my tears are my weapons, for these are a priest's defence."

The Blessed Virgin Mary

(About Mary): Luke 2:19 - "Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."
"How can this be, seeing I am a virgin?"
"See, the handmaid of the Lord; be it to me according to your word."
"My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me--holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers." (Luke 1:46-55)
"Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you." (Lk 2:48)
"They have no wine." (Jn 2:3)
"Do whatever he tells you." (Jn 2:5)

Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin

"I am a nobody, I am a small rope, a tiny ladder, the tail end, a leaf."

Pope, Saint Damasus

He who walks on the sea could calm the bitter waves, who gives life to the dying seeds of the earth; he who was able to loose the mortal chains of death, and after three days darkness could bring again to the upper world the brother for his sister Martha: he, I believe, will make Damasus rise again from the dust.
The arrangement of the names of Christ, however, is manifold: LORD, because He is Spirit; WORD, because He is God; SON because He is the only-begotten son of the Father; MAN, because He was born of the Virgin; PRIEST, because He offered Himself as a sacrifice; SHEPHERD, because He is a guardian; WORM, because He rose again; MOUNTAIN, because He is strong; WAY, because there is a straight path through Him to life; LAMB, because He suffered; CORNER-STONE, because instruction is His; TEACHER, because He demonstrates how to live; SUN, because He is the illuminator; TRUTH, because He is from the Father; LIFE, because He is the creator; BREAD because He is flesh; SAMARITAN, because He is the merciful protector; CHRIST, because He is anointed; JESUS, because He is a mediator; VINE, because we are redeemed by His blood; LION, because He is King; ROCK, because He is firm; FLOWER, because He is the chosen one; PROPHET, because He has revealed what is to come.

POPE FRANCIS:

Pope Francis invited Italy's bishops to live the "beatitudes of a bishop," an adaptation of the traditional Eight Beatitudes to provide guiding principles for being a "good shepherd" of a diocese.

The pope distributed a card to all the bishops at the assembly as part of "launching a conversation with the bishops." The card had a colour image of "The Good Shepherd" painting by the German Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach der Ältere and, on the reverse, listed "The Beatitudes of the Bishop."

The beatitudes were created by Italian Archbishop Mimmo Battaglia of Naples, who was dubbed "Bergoglio of the South" while he was a bishop of another southern Italian diocese and continued his work as a "street priest," especially in aiding those with drug dependencies.

The archbishop, 58, presented the beatitudes during a homily ordaining three new auxiliary bishops for Naples in October; they were reproduced on the card distributed by the pope:

"Blessed is the bishop who makes poverty and shares his way of life so that by his witness he is building up the kingdom of heaven.

"Blessed is the bishop who is not afraid of tears streaming down his face, so that in them may be mirrored the pains of the people, the hard work of priests, finding God's consolation in the embrace with those who suffer.

"Blessed is the bishop who considers his ministry as service and not power, making meekness his strength, giving everyone the right to hold citizenship in his heart, to inhabit the land promised to the meek.

"Blessed is the bishop who does not shut himself up in the palaces of governance, who does not become a bureaucrat who is more attentive to statistics than to faces, to procedures than to stories, who is seeking to fight alongside humanity for God's dream of justice because the Lord, encountered in the silence of daily prayer, will be his nourishment.

"Blessed is the bishop who has a heart for the misery of the world, who is not afraid to dirty his hands with the mud of the human soul in order to find God's gold, who is not scandalized by the sin and frailty of others because he is aware of his own misery so that the gaze of the Risen Crucified One will be a seal of infinite forgiveness for him.

"Blessed is the bishop who banishes duplicity of heart, who avoids every ambiguous dynamic, who dreams of the good even in the midst of evil, because he will be able to rejoice in God's countenance, discovering his reflection in every puddle of the city of mankind.

"Blessed is the bishop who works for peace, who accompanies journeys of reconciliation, who sows the seed of communion in the heart of the presbytery, who accompanies a divided society along the path of reconciliation, who takes every man and woman of goodwill by the hand to build fraternity: God will recognize him as his son.

"Blessed is the bishop who is not afraid to go against the tide for the sake of the Gospel, making his face 'stern' like that of Christ on his way to Jerusalem, without letting himself be held back by misunderstandings and obstacles because he knows that the kingdom of God advances in the contradiction of the world."

(SOURCE – https://www.ncronline.org/news/francis-chronicles/pope-gives-italian-bishops-beatitudes-be-good-shepherds ) -

(Image licensed - Shutterstock - ID: 164173436

ROME - OCTOBER 2013: Pope Francis in the audience, greeting the crowds in St Peter's Square, the Vatican, 30th October 2013. By Martin Podzorny )

NOTICES AND MESSAGES

SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS

New supplies of rosary beads and crucifixes have arrived this week. Still available are Columban Calendars, Daily Mass Books, God's Word, Christmas cards and Nativities and much more.

Have a look in our shops this weekend for a Christmas gift for that special person or friend.

The December issue of the CATHOLIC LEADER is available now

Inside this issue... Two Men of God have been ordained as Deacons and are ready to preach and serve in Queensland. The Pope has issued a "wake-up" call to armchair Christians. The archdiocese has launched an online Parish, read more about these topics this month in the Catholic Leader

FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 3rd December at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40

First Saturday Mass with Adoration and Benediction. Sacred Heart Church -9am Saturday the 4th December.

Burleigh Heads Catholic Parish /community cordially invites you to join us as we present our festival of carols and readings of the Christmas story.

When: Friday, 17 December 2021 at 7 pm.

Where: Mary Mother of Mercy Church, 3 Sunlight Drive, Burleigh Waters.

BYO: picnic rug, folding chairs and a family share plate.

A light supper will be provided with nibbles, traditional Christmas cake, Shortbread, tea, coffee and cordial.

Supper will be provided in the undercover area of Marymount college (adjacent to the

Church). So come along and join us as we share the Christmas story followed by a carols sing

Along during supper!

MARIAN VALLEY - OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady Of Fatima on 13.12.2021. The bus will be picking up sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church. Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus is $22.00 return and please BYO lunch. You can secure your seat with a contact name and contact phone number with

Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573, Zenaida on 0447 004 344. All are welcome.

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

ART AND CRAFT GROUP

The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays, 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.

WOMEN'S RETREAT WEEKENDS: 12-14TH DECEMBER 2021 OR 14-16TH JANUARY 2022

Theme: The Tree of Life: (Reflections on St Bonaventure's Lignum Vitae)

A Quiet Weekend with the opportunity to explore the God who comes close and does as St Bonaventure did: fall in love with God over and over again. Come and experience a time of guided prayerful reflection.

Place: Santa Teresa Spirituality Centre, Wellington Street, Ormiston. Cost: $370 ($340 for pensioners, f/t students and unemployed) includes all accommodation, meals (an additional fee for special diets), resources, spiritual direction and facilitation.

To register or enquire contact: grace@dragonflyministries.net.au or 0409 524 283

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.

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.

ST KEVINS PRIMARY SCHOOL INFORMATION:

St Kevin's Catholic Primary School at Benowa has a limited number of vacancies in certain year levels, so we encourage those families still considering their schooling options for 2022 to make contact with the school via phone -55394522 or to go to the website for further enrolment information www.sk.qld.edu.au

St Kevin's is one of our three-valued catholic primary schools within our parish bounds for 2022.

STARTING 2022 - NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL WITHIN OUR PARISH

Star of the Sea - Merrimac - Initially Prep to Year 3, and then extend -Website: Star Of The Sea Merrimac Facebook Page: Star of the Sea

Feast of The Immaculate Conception 8 December -Hour of Grace

Please join us at St Brigid's Catholic Church

39-49 McLaren Road, Nerang

For the Hour of Grace. We will start at 11.30am. (Please be on time)

"I am the Immaculate Conception, the Mother of all graces, and the Mother of my Beloved Son, Jesus. I want to be known as the Mystical Rose. My wish is that every year on the 8th December, at noon, an "Hour of Grace" will be installed. Many spiritual graces and physical blessings will be received by those who pray, undisturbed, during this hour." To Sister Pierina in Montichiari, Italy in 1947

MARIAN VALLEY EXPRESS

The Marian Valley Express Bus leaves Surfers Paradise Catholic Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters on the 13th of each month at 8.15 am taking pilgrims to celebrate Our Lady Of Fatima at the Shrine of Our Lady of Help of Christians in Canungra. All are welcome. To book contact Xavier Solomon Tel:0404843260 or 55291573.

Email Solxy@optusnet.com.au. The cost is $22 return. The Shrine of Our Lady Help of Christians is situated at 2541 Beechmont Rd, 10km from Canungra and south of Brisbane in the Gold Coast Hinterland. As an Archdiocesan Shrine of Brisbane, it is dedicated to Our Lady Help of Christians, a title under which Mary is particularly honoured in Australia as its Patroness. At Marian Valley, there are many beautiful chapels, donated by generous benefactors including different ethnic communities. Many of them were assisted in the construction by Marian Valley volunteers. All who have contributed to the presence of these chapels give witness to their faith, devotion and love for God and for Our Lady. The main Chapel is known as the Black Madonna Chapel. The Chapel seats approximately 500 pilgrims. It houses a true copy of the Miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa. There is a strong connection between the Pauline Fathers who are custodians of Marian Valley and the Blank Madonna since they have also been custodians of the original Black Madonna icon for centuries

JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE -

Position Vacant – Youth Ministry Coordinator - Cleveland.

Applications are open for a position at Star of the Sea Cleveland Catholic Parish. A person who can establish and develop a youth ministry program within the parish is required for 10 hours per week on a fixed-term contract.

https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/402918/youth-ministry-coordinator-cleveland-parish

Application close: 10 December 2021

Position Vacant – Youth Ministry Coordinator- Hendra.

Applications are open for a position at The Mother of Mercy Catholic Parish (Hendra, Northgate, Hamilton). A person who can 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-opportunities/399009/youth-ministry-coordinator-hendra-hamilton-parish - Application close: 15 December 2021

Position Vacant – Parish Secretary - South Brisbane

Applications are open for a position at the St Mary's, South Brisbane, and Dutton Park Parishes. A person with excellent administration and time management skills is required for a full-time position of Parish Secretary working 38 hours a week. For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website. https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/404081/parish-secretary-st-marys-south-brisbane-and-dutton-park-parishes

Applications close: 19 December 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 zero-tolerance for abuse of children or vulnerable adults.

FAMILY: Discovering 'Coupleness' -

An Original Shalom-World Catholic Production

From brokenness, they worked to build bridges and walk together. In association with Worldwide Marriage Encounter, Shalom World brings a brand new season of 'Family' to your homes. 'Family: Discovering Coupleness' comes to your homes from November 14th at 8.30 pm Queensland time - (9.30 PM ET/GMT/AEDT). Featuring a couple from our parish. Hamilton family episode is due on 5th December. YOU CAN ALSO WATCH US ON Shalom World's website: https://www.shalomworld.org/

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/

Rejoice - morning worship -- online - *6.30 AM QUEENSLAND TIME - Friday, December 10th - 2021. www.shalomworld.org

*6.30 AM QUEENSLAND TIME - Friday, December 10th 2021. www.shalomworld.org

NEXT SUNDAY'S READINGS

Readings for Sunday, December 12, 2021 - Third Sunday Advent. Year C

FIRST READING: Zeph 3: 14-18a

Ps: Isa 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6 "Cry Out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and holy one of Israel"

SECOND READING: Phil 4: 4-7

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Isa 61: 1 (cited in Lk 4: 18)): Alleluia, alleluia! The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he sent me to bring the Good news to the poor. Alleluia!

GOSPEL: Luke 3: 10-18

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/

Friday, 3 December 2021

SPCP_E-newsletter -Sunday, December 5, 2021 -Second Sunday Advent. Year C