PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
IMPORTANT NEWS - The 8 am & 10 am Masses at St. Vincents, Surfers Paradise are cancelled this weekend. All others are still on.
Please also note that Mass on Australia Day (Wednesday 26th January) is still on at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island waters at 9 am Wednesday. Please let others know of this development, especially anyone who does not have internet.
"Today this Scripture is Fulfilled in Your Hearing." (Luke 4:21).
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 1346846189 -Nazareth, Israel - 4/8/2015: The Synagogue Church is a small Christian church in the heart of Nazareth, Israel. The church is built on the ruins of the ancient Nazareth synagogue. Contributor: Tomanovic Violeta )
PASTOR'S POST A Slave to Fashion
While enjoying a coffee at a cafe with a friend some time ago, a rather attractive young lady walked past almost wearing what could loosely be described as 'clothing'. What parts of her that weren't covered by fabric were adorned with brightly coloured tattoos, shoulders to toes. She even had some obscure depiction of a dragon crawling up into her hairline. Quick as a flash my wise and worldly experienced friend said, "That young miss looks like she has been rolling around on the ground in wet comics". After recovering from the brilliant imagery, we both started making a list of fashion trends that we don't understand and therefore can't see the fashionable aspect of what is being displayed. The question raised was "does something need to look attractive or at least pleasant before it can be called fashionable?"
I need to preface the following by saying that I am not a buyer of 'label' items, so much as a purchaser of what I think looks acceptable on a person of my age. Failing that, I am just happy to buy something comfortable that actually fits me. Not as easy a task as it might sound. If I ever was a slave to fashion it certainly disappeared when the price of jeans equalled the same as my weekly wage. It's a shame that we can get to an age when comfort trumps chic when it comes to fashion.
Thus saying, my first fashion question deals with the reason why certain people wear baseball caps backwards. Surely they are meant to shield the face from the sun or even soak up some of the sweat from exercise, and even if they were able to provide some protection, why is it then necessary to wear these caps when driving or sitting in a darkened cinema. At this point, I throw in the query as to why sunglasses need to be perched on the top of people's heads, especially when they are inside and well away from any glare. Don't get me started on bike riders who happily carry their helmets on their handlebars. Could this be that the helmet is in easy reach to put on their heads should they have an accident? Not sure on that one.
At this point, my witty friend added her concern about the amount of engineering that goes into some of the shoes that young women seem to think enhances their allure, when, if they had to wear a similar shoe for orthopaedic reasons, they would be distraught. We both wondered how they could walk in them, let alone smile and hold a beverage in a bar crowded with other lookalike fashionistas.
Their male counterparts look equally uncomfortable with trousers that surely must have been mislabelled as two sizes larger when they bought them or possibly they shrunk in the wash if they actually knew how to wash them in the first place. It just seems to me to be the ultimate conundrum to try to stand out from the crowd and be noticed by trying to look like everyone else.
The whole concept of how fashion works baffles me. An American newspaperman once wrote to the effect that if you let people do what they want they end up imitating each other. We see it obviously in teenage fashion where peer pressure almost indicates a uniform. Though theoretically most of us are free to wear what we like and act the way we like, we are all battered by a desire to fit in, to not stand out as being different. It's only the very brave or single-minded person who chooses to allow their uniqueness to shine and set their own trends, rather than hope that they will be noticed by what someone else tells them is acceptable.
Meanwhile, I will continue to walk around in my comfortable old duds, hoping that no one notices that whatever label they once displayed has now worn off.
Fr Peter Dillon PP
With uncertainty due to Covid numbers, we encourage everyone to continue to be safe and exercise social distancing, hand sanitising, and mask-wearing. Anyone experiencing even the mildest of symptoms, please stay home and use rapid testing . We aim to ensure that the mass schedule will continue as advertised. If anything changes in this, we will alert you via the parish website and the parish news emailing list. If any sudden changes occur, we will also leave a message on our parish phone system and also put a notice up at any churches affected. God bless.
TONGAN VOLCANO DISASTER AND PNG COVID EMERGENCY- CARITAS APPEAL
Your support is needed
You can provide vital relief to communities impacted by natural disasters, such as the volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga, along with the current COVID-19 crisis in Papua New Guinea and Fiji. With your support, our partners on the ground can respond immediately when crises strike.
Tonga has been cut off from the rest of the world following a violent underwater volcano eruption on 15 January that triggered tsunamis, destroyed telecommunications and blanketed the Pacific island nation in ash.
There are reports that some coastal communities in Fiji and Vanuatu have been damaged by large waves and tsunami warnings were also issued across the Pacific, Australia, US and Japan.
We are currently working to restore communications with our local partners to assess the situation on the ground and determine the most urgent needs. The volcanic ash is hampering emergency flights into the country and the damage to telecommunications infrastructure has made it difficult to get in contact with affected communities.
There are fears that the volcanic ash and saltwater inundation from the tsunami waves may contaminate drinking water and threaten the health and safety of vulnerable communities.
Your urgent support is needed today to help communities affected by this disaster.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
A VOCATION VIEW:
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 and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION
"Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who had nothing prepared…" (Nehemiah 8:10)
Ezra's instructions to the people show us that God does not forbid us from enjoying the good things in life. He wants us to be happy! However, God expects us to be grateful for all that He has given us and to generously share our blessings with those who are in need. Now here's the hard part – to share all we have without expecting anything in return. The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Marie Ashby, Gus Reeves, Kathy Kiely, John & Molly Robinson, Laila Mikael, Dominique Corbello, 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, Robyn Skein, Kye Oh, Michael James, Bill Gilmore, Olga Hamshari, Roy Ferraro, Margaret Haerse, Rosalind Lee, Milka Barac, Mary Ashton, Rodney & Norma McLennan, Lois & Doug Wood, Duncan Dawson, William Franklin, Maria Mihalic, Annie Scicluna, Anne Logan, Margaret & Louise Thompson, Patricia Moor, Helen Bohringer, Peter O'Brien, Angela Duvnjak, Rachel Raines, Savannah Ayoub, Baby Maeve Lombard, Rosslyn Wallis, Arthur Haddad, Michael & Denise Tracey, Joanne Mooney, Joanne Parkes, Michelle MacDonald, Mary Kerr.
And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.
RECENTLY DECEASED: Charlise Mutten, Malcolm Holmes, Francee Beckman, Margaret Paterson, Nicole Summons, James (Jim) Kirk Snr (4th Generation Funeral Director in Maryborough, QLD), Fr Norman Ronald Birch, Margaret Kelly, Stephen Baker, Tony Tongue, John William Maddocks (Claudia's husband), Veronica Smith, Keiran Davey (Ireland), Lourdes Abelardo, Keiran Scanlan (Ireland), Kenneth Walker, Santo Auteri, Dragica Bosiljevac, Adrienne Barry, Mary Bickle, Aeanus Leana, John Francis Moore, Joan Brown, Jimmy Fennell (Ireland), Agnes Ita (Toni) Molloy nee Hickman (NZ), Marian Ware, Joseph Ceh, Marian Howell, Andy French, Maria Vos, Margaret Josephine Borg, Mariette Anna Stradiotto-Alda, Herta Haselhorst, Yvonne Khalema, Ramona Judith Ellis, Dymphna Hogg, Bill Goodrem, Fr Stanislaus Barry cm, Iris Scerri, Joe Canavo, Shane Burgess, Debra-Ann Cameron, Herbert Dawson, Shirley Ryan, Wayne Allan Pearce, Regina Flemming, Thomas James Burns.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Bruce Obeso, Thomas Muggleton, Len Scully, Rebecca Duazo, Johann Ofner, Trevor Raymond Kar, Kenneth Charles Emmerton, Kath Power, Paul Anthony Zappa, Peter Bernardi, Franco Catalucci, Stan Hancock, Gloria Klaasen, Susan-Gai Walsh, Armando Covino, Kenneth John (Ken) Maccheroni, Anne Elizabeth Carney, John Pascoe, Jeffrey Eric Fittler, Klaus Diga, Dr David Lee, Jacqueline Rivet, Raelene Mavis Maroney, Susan Marie Hogan, Zvonimir Leopold Karlich. And also: Margaret Cooper (UK), Enid Cox, Kent Moray, John Gordon, Harold Alexander, Wally Bereth, Carmen Callus, Brian Miller, Antonio Falcone, Rafael Toda, Thomas Lloyd Muggleton, Joan Denise Hegerty, Christine Lucy Harding, Stanley James Jackson, Joseph Nicholas (Joe) Friedman, Alfredo Boluso, David John Newlands, Deris Eunice Howell, Joan Cumner, Josephine Lenahan, Nell Mcleod, Grazyna Palac, Raymond Cezerẽ (Ray) Hoareau, Joseph Borg, Grazyna Palac, Ted Llewellen, Margaret (Peg) Byrnes, Ivan Michael Clark, Albert Antonio Vosti.
A Columbarium Question -
Due to a large number of enquiries and consequent reservations of columbarium niches, we will soon be looking at adding several new walls to accommodate future needs. In preparation for these new walls, we are interested to know how many parishioners or others are considering reserving a niche for themselves or family members. If you wish to express an interest or simply want to inquire about what is involved, then we ask you to call the parish office in the next few weeks so that we can plan for a sufficient number of places. (A columbarium is an area used to store the ashes of the deceased who have been cremated. Those ashes are kept in urns and the urns are placed inside "niches", or compartments, within the columbarium. The columbarium itself can be either a wall or significant structure that will be open to loved ones to visit the deceased person at any time. Our parish columbarium is located at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters overlooking the lake., between the Church and the Hospitality Centre)
Library Volunteer Needed for Sunday Morning Mass
A library volunteer is needed to attend the library before (15 minutes) and after Sunday Morning Mass (10 minutes) at Sacred Heart Parish Church. The person will be fully trained in the issuing of library books and the processing of new lenders. Please phone the Parish office at (07) 5572 5433 or email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au. Alternatively, text Esta Mostert on WhatsApp at 0410542427 with your name and contact number and when you will be able to start.
Proverbs 11:2 "Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance."
The Library and the Omicron Virus
As our library is small, it will be wise to limit the access to two persons at a time wearing a mask. If you touch a book, it needs to go into the blue box on the library table. All books that are returned need to go into the blue box for the books to be sanitised and the virus to die. If you have any books due by the end of January, please put them in the blue box on the table inside the library.
At St Vincent's Church the "READ AND RETURN" trolley located in the foyer, is available again for your perusal. Feel free to borrow a book and return it at your leisure.
The Sacred Heart Bridge Club, in 2022, Celebrating Twenty Years at the church.
The club has the enviable reputation of being the greatest little social Bridge club here on the Coast. Many of the current members have been with the club since it started some two decades ago.
From a working background with an international aid agency Director Cheryl Simpson says one of the highlights was the unique experience to meet Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India.
After many years, retirement called, and with a change of city together with her lifelong love of playing cards was a hobby she was keen to develop in retirement.
Her experience of dealing with people from all backgrounds led her to qualify as a Bridge Teacher. Following teaching at a Gold Coast Club, she observed that new players needed longer to mature into the game before playing with experienced players. She found each player learnt at their own speed. With this teaching method, the large dropout rate of bridge players at other clubs could be avoided.
Over its long history, the Club has provided enjoyment and fellowship for many within the church. As a group, they have attended theatre outings and even travelled overseas on holidays to China, Mauritius and Vietnam as well as domestic trips. However, the last holiday, was a cruise, in January 2020 due to the pandemic.
In addition, it is noticeable that members have felt comfortable returning to play following a bereavement or a serious illness when they would otherwise have felt unable to venture out, as the club provided a safe and secure outing.
Many players have expressed the opinion that having an afternoon of cards has been one of the most pleasurable parts of their week.
Sacred Heart Bridge Club operates on Monday & Wednesday afternoon whether you are already a player returning to the game or want to join the Beginners classes. Additional follow-up classes for intermediate and advanced players are also available.
The Bridge Club Opens on 24th January 2022
Please telephone Cheryl on 55388821 or 0417 772 701
Pictured, above, some members below enjoying good fellowship, and of course a fun game of Bridge.
Sacred Heart Bridge Club
Meets at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Hospitality Room, Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Gold Coast QLD Tel Cheryl on 07 5538 8821
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, Confirmation, and the receiving of your child's First Communion. The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team has prepared 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. In response to the current and significant local Covid numbers, the previously advertised Meeting: Meeting for the Sacrament of Penance Preparation that was to be held on either February 21, 2022, at 6 pm or February 22, 2022, at 6 pm has been cancelled. Instead of the meeting, families will receive an email in the next couple of weeks to invite them to assist their child in At Home Preparation for Reconciliation. Those indicating their interest via reply email will then be emailed the At Home Preparation for Reconciliation program.
Currently we are still hoping and planning to celebrate the First Rite of Reconciliation will 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 Monday, June 6 at 6 pm or Monday, June 13 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
MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady Of Lourdes on the 11.02.2022 and for the Feast day of Our Lady of Fatima on the 13.02.2022. The bus will be picking up at 8.15 am, at the Sacred Heart Church. Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus is $22.00 return for each trip. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
The submission process for feedback for the Roman Synod of Bishops: (Australia)
Individuals and groups are asked to submit their summarised reflections directly to the National Centre for Pastoral Research. See link here: https://www.catholic.org.au/synodalchurch
The consultation period with local churches runs until February 27, 2022.
THIS WEEKEND'S GOSPEL - Fulfilled in Your Hearing!
In the wonderful First reading, we see an ancient example of the people of God gathering to listen to God's word and give praise and worship to the Lord. This pattern all these many centuries later is still familiar. God's people, including us today, gather to listen to God's word and appreciate the meaning of it for our lives here and now, and it touches our hearts and minds and deepens our dedication to the Lord. Sometimes God's word challenges us and cuts us to the heart, as it reveals our areas for growth, and at other times, it encourages and nurtures us. But it never fails to be a source of grace and life for all who receive the Word.
May we always open our hearts and minds to God's word... Cherishing it; . being moved by it. treasuring it and living it...
And what a beautiful second reading! Saint Paul once again gives us a superb image - Just as the body has many parts but it is still one body. so, we, God's people, are invited to remember the unity we have with one another... the shared sense of purpose and the lived reality that our good is tied to the good of all people.
We each have gifts... but these gifts are "given to share" with each other, ... so we really need to help and support each other... especially those most in need.
Saint Luke wrote his version of the gospel (which we hear today and through most of this year), and he says he did this to provide an orderly account of things relating to Jesus. (Luke also wrote the "Acts of the Apostles"... clearly addressing (at the start of both books) to the same person named "your Excellency Theophilus" - (a name that means lover of God") - who was obviously a Gentile believer; with a high rank and status in society... This gospel particularly speaks to influential and powerful Gentiles, who are trying to work out what Jesus' asks of them and what God's core values are. The writing is challenging and encouraging in equal measure.
And at the very start of Our Lord's ministry, God's ancient words are announced as being fulfilled "right here and right now, as you listen.." - In this extraordinary speech at the synagogue of his own hometown. Jesus spells out the "blueprint for his ministry" – (an incredibly generous and compassionate ministry at that), . ,
It is a stunning declaration of the dawning of a new era of God's favour, kindness, and grace. . Where all the hopes and dreams of the poor and the needy have been noticed by God and committed to God's care. God really cares a lot, about how badly people are faring and God means to do something about it through Jesus and his followers. God wants people to see their destiny as bound-up with the worries of others too. And use their gifts and influence to make a difference, not just for ourselves or our families and friends, but for the good of all people - whom we united to, through God.
Jesus' hometown of Nazareth, was a very, very important location. . It was a city of some 20,000 people. The hill (on which the city was built - and which Jesus' listeners are soon about to unsuccessfully try to throw Jesus off!!), was not just some minor feature. If the boy Jesus, when he was growing up in that city, had gone up that massive hill and peered over it. The world, as it was then known, would have sprawled in front of him. Before his eyes were the major trade and travelling routes from all the different regions to the known world. Jesus would have watched the "world" go by as he sat there on that hill in Nazareth
And so, Jesus' speech at Nazareth, a town in Galilee – (Galilee means 'circle of the nations – probably because of the large number of people from other nations who settled there), is timely and perfectly placed. At the crossroads of the nations, God has intervened in our history… and has come to give us news. Thank goodness; it is very good news indeed, for the poor and the needy. (1)
"The poor" are all of us, in one way or another)… Many of us are captive to one thing or another in our lives. we all desperately need the news Jesus has to give us… so this news from Jesus is for all of us. And for everyone… // And we take heart that Jesus has us in mind when he begins his mission to save and help people in need… and free us from whatever imprisons and impoverishes us all…
The first step seems to be 'freedom' – To be Free from anything that stops us from being the loving people God calls us to be. Free to respond compassionately and justly to those in need. Free from wasting our time and energy on that which does not last.
Jesus words are not merely 'talk' - He sets about immediately doing what he has just announced to the people. Involving himself fully in the lives of those who are suffering and who feel lost.
Let us, as one body in Christ, recognise that we are all in this together. It is not "them or us" or "every person for themselves". It is "us, gathered and united by Christ," to be open to/. cooperate with/ and trust in our Lord, who is good news in everything he says and does//.. in fact, he is the very best news we will ever hear.
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.
(Reference: Fr Paul W. Kelly; THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE. GOSPEL OF LUKE. (REVISED EDITION). BY WILLIAM BARCLAY; SUNDAYS AND HOLY DAY LITURGIES. YEAR C. FLOR MCCARTHY S.D.B.; Abbot's homily. Monastery of Christ in the desert; (1) 'Galilee of the nations', which refers to gentiles who settled there at the time that the book was written, either by their own volition or as a result of being deported there. From; Room, Adrian (2006). "Place-names of the World: Origins and Meanings of the Names for 6,600 Countries, Cities, Territories, Natural Features, and Historic Sites." (2nd, revised ed.). McFarland. p. 138. ISBN 978-0-7864-2248-7. Retrieved 21 February 2011. Source: Wikipedia on "Galilee")
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 2096412949 - Nazareth, Israel - December 24, 2021: The interior of Synagogue Church. In Nazareth, Israel – Contributor: RnDmS )
St Francis de Sales
"The measure of love is to love without measure."
"Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them—every day begin the task anew."
"Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly."
"Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit.
Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.
What is anything in life compared to the peace of soul?"
"If, when stung by slander or ill-nature, we wax proud and swell with anger, it is a proof that our gentleness and humility are unreal and mere artificial show."
"The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day.
Either he will shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace then and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings."
"The truly patient man neither complains of his hard lot nor desires to be pitied by others. He speaks of his sufferings in a natural, true, and sincere way, without murmuring, complaining, or exaggerating them."
"Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself...do not be disheartened by your imperfections, but always rise up with fresh courage."
"God takes pleasure to see you take your little steps; and like a good father who holds his child by the hand, He will accommodate His steps to yours and will be content to go no faster than you. Why do you worry?"
"You learn to speak by speaking, to study by studying, to run by running, to work by working; and just so, you learn to love by loving. All those who think to learn in any other way deceive themselves."
"Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations, and say continually: The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart has trusted in Him and I am helped. He is not only with me but in me and I in Him."
"It is a fact that people are always well aware of what is due them. Unfortunately, they remain oblivious of what they owe to others."
"The many troubles in your household will tend to your edification if you strive to bear them all in gentleness, patience, and kindness. Keep this ever before you, and remember constantly that God's loving eyes are upon you amid all these little worries and vexations, watching whether you take them as He would desire. Offer up all such occasions to Him, and if sometimes you are put out, and give way to impatience, do not be discouraged, but make haste to regain your lost composure."
"Fits of anger, vexation, and bitterness against ourselves tend to pride and they spring from no other source than self-love, which is disturbed and upset at seeing that it is imperfect."
"During the night we must wait for the light."
"Do not become upset when difficulty comes your way. Laugh in its face and know that you are in the hands of God."
"Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections."
"Examine your heart often to see if it is such toward your neighbour as you would like his to be toward you were you in his place. This is the touchstone of true reason."
"The whole world is not worth one soul."
"Make friends with the angels, who though invisible are always with you. Often invoke them, constantly praise them, and make good use of their help and assistance in all your temporal and spiritual affairs."
"Certainly all virtues are very dear to God, but humility pleases Him above all the others, and it seems that He can refuse it nothing."
"Humility consists in not esteeming ourselves above other men, and is not seeking to be esteemed above them."
"It is wonderful how attractive a gentle, pleasant manner is, and how much it wins hearts."
"Truly it is a blessed thing to love on earth as we hope to love in Heaven, and to begin that friendship here which is to endure forever there."
"Do not think that you will be able to succeed in your affairs by your own efforts, but only by the assistance of God; and on setting out, consign yourself to His care, believing that He will do that which will be best for you."
"Our possessions are not ours- God has given them to us to cultivate, that we may make them fruitful and profitable in His Service, and so doing we shall please Him."
"Have Jesus always for your patron, His Cross for a mast on which you must spread your resolutions as a sail. Your anchor shall be a profound confidence in Him, and you shall sail prosperously."
"Let us walk ... joyously, dear souls, among the difficulties of this passing life ... These pains will have an end when our life ends, after which there will be only joy, only contentment, only eternal consolation."
"We all colour devotion according to our own likings and dispositions. One man sets great value on fasting, and believes himself to be leading a very devout life, so long as he fasts rigorously, although the while his heart is full of bitterness;–and while he will not moisten his lips with wine, perhaps not even with water, in his great abstinence, he does not scruple to steep them in his neighbour's blood, through slander and detraction."
POPE FRANCIS: Synodality about listening to the Spirit, not a 'majority consensus'
VATICAN CITY — The synodal process is a path of engagement that makes room for the Holy Spirit, and not a "majority consensus like a parliament" to guide the universal church, Pope Francis said.
Speaking with leaders of the French Catholic Action movement on January 13, the pope said that synodality is "not a plan or a program to be implemented" but "a style to be adopted" that listens to the spirit through the word of God, prayer and adoration.
The French bishops' conference had said the purpose of the meeting was for the Catholic Action leaders to present to the pope and other Vatican leaders a document titled "Being Apostles today."
The goal of the document, which is the culmination of two years of work by Catholic groups in France, is "to discern what unites them in their approach and their actions," the bishops' conference said in a press release.
The French bishops' conference also noted that the document aligns with the goals of the upcoming Synod of Bishops on synodality.
During their meeting with the pope and various dicasteries, the Catholic Action leaders were to "highlight the relevance of their place as 'apostles' today in the French ecclesial landscape because of their immersion in a society that is increasingly distant from Christian references and the church," it said.
"This trip will also allow them to listen to what the authorities of the universal church will have to say to them to broaden their vision, their reflections and their actions in order to better associate themselves, as partners, in the necessary evolutions of the church," the statement said.
Welcoming the Catholic group leaders to the Vatican, the pope reflected on the call to be "effective apostles," citing the example of the two disciples who met Jesus on the road to Emmaus.
The disciples, he said, recalled their experience of being with Jesus, recognized his presence and then went to Jerusalem to announce his resurrection. Their experience, which Christians today should imitate, can be summarized in three words: see, judge and act.
Reflecting on seeing, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of memory and that the first step of Christian witness is to look back at one's life "to understand the meaning of what has been lived and to perceive how God was present at every moment."
Nevertheless, "the subtlety and delicacy of the Lord's action in our lives sometimes prevents us from understanding it in the moment, and it takes this distance to grasp its coherence," he said.
To judge or discern the presence of God in their lives, he continued, Christians must also subject their lives "to the scrutiny of the word of God."
"In the encounter between the events of the world and of our lives, on the one hand, and the word of God, on the other, we can discern the appeals that the Lord makes to us," the pope said.
He also called on Christians "to give equal space to prayer, to interiority and to adoration," because that is how they place their lives under Jesus' gaze and accept "this encounter between my poor humanity and his transforming divinity."
Lastly, to act means to support and foster God's action while "adapting to the reality which is constantly evolving."
"Today, especially in Europe, those who frequent Christian movements are more sceptical of institutions, they seek less demanding and more ephemeral relationships," he said. "They are more sensitive to emotions, and therefore more vulnerable, more fragile than previous generations, less rooted in the faith, but nevertheless in search of meaning and truth, and no less generous."
Pope Francis encouraged the Catholic Action groups to continue their mission of helping others "find or rediscover the joy of knowing the friendship of Christ and proclaiming the Gospel.
"Your mission, as Catholic Action, is to reach them as they are, to make them grow in the love of Christ and their neighbour, and to lead them to a greater concrete commitment, so that they may be protagonists of their own lives and of the life of the church, so that the world may change," the pope said.
(source: Pope: Jan 13, 2022. by Junno Arocho Esteves, Catholic News Service. https://www.ncronline.org/news/theology/pope-synodality-about-listening-spirit-not-majority-consensus )
(Image: Shutterstock licensed image. ID: 1864294921 - Vatican City, Pope Francis celebrates a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica. Contributor: Riccardo De Luca).
SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS
Please note that the Catholic Leader Newspaper is now $4 dollars, as it is a monthly newspaper available on the first Sunday of the month.
The Religious Goods shops at both the Sacred Heart and St Vincent's Churches are open before and after Mass each weekend, where you are able to purchase a variety of inexpensive Christian inspirational gift lines. If there is a special item you would like ordered, please contact Pat 0404 805 819
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB- (In its Twentieth Year in 2022)- (resumes 24th January)
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
CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION
CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION - INSTRUCTORS and ASSISTANTS NEEDED
At our local State Primary Schools for 1-2 hours per week, tell children about JESUS. New volunteers are placed with experienced Instructors. Training is free, with support. An easy curriculum ensures Bible stories are covered to give an understanding of God's love. The door is open for us to 'go' Matthew 28:19. Will you go? - For more information, please call Helene McCowan - 0419 747631 - helene.mccowan@gmail.com (advertisement for 16th, 23rd and 30th January newsletter)
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE- (Resumed)
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 - (Resumed)
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.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP - Due to recent COVID outbreak
2022 recommencement date To Be Advised.
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 759 205, or the Parish Office.
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 three of our valued Catholic Primary Schools within our parish bounds for 2022.
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.
STARTING 2022 - NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL WITHIN OUR PARISH
Star of the Sea - Merrimac - Initially Prep to Year 3, and then extending after that -
Website: Star Of The Sea Merrimac and Facebook Page: Star of the Sea
Centacare Pastoral Ministries - Prisoners Services
Expressions of interest are welcome for reception & admin duties with Prisoners Services - Centacare Pastoral Ministries (South Brisbane location). Those with a strong resolve, confident phone manner, customer service background and excellent computer and database skills are encouraged to reach out. Contribute to a happy & professional team helping vulnerable people to have a better life. For those interested in applying or looking to know more, please get in touch with Seamus Baldwin (Human Resources Coordinator) - baldwins@bne.catholic.net.au - Expressions of interest close late January 2022.
Position Vacant – Parish Secretary- Burpengary
Applications are open for a position at the Burpengary Parish. A person with excellent administration and time management skills required for a part time position of Parish Secretary working 20 hours a week, Tuesday to Friday. For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers.
Applications close: 31 January 2022
Position Vacant – Finance Officer- Burpengary Parish
Applications are open for a position at the Burpengary Parish. A person with excellent finance experience required for a part time position of Finance Officer working 8 hours a week, Monday & either a Thursday or a Friday with the flexibility of increasing these hours in the near future. For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers.
Applications close: 31 January 2022
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people (0 - 18 years) and/or vulnerable adults. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a 0 tolerance to abuse of children or vulnerable adults.
The following reflection/study processes are in RECESS
for the Christmas and School Holiday period
RCIA: - NEXT SESSION - WEDNESDAY NIGHT - Resumes 2nd February 2022 at 6 pm Atrium Building
EPIC: - A Journey through the History of the Catholic ChurchNEXT SESSION - SUNDAY MORNING - Resumes 30th January 2022 10 am - Parish Hospitality Centre
Rest in the Peace of Our Lord Jesus Christ - Fr Norman Ronald Birch
March 12, 1930 – January 8, 2022
Fr Peter and Fr Paul were honoured to have had a visit from Fr Norman Birch when he visited Australia a few years back. He lived in Canada.
Teacher, Priest and Friend. "SAD, NOT BAD BUT GLAD" to be with the LORD after a long, wonderful life well lived. He passed away peacefully at Delta Hospital from lung cancer. He is survived by his brother Robert, his nephew Michael and niece Rosalie. He is predeceased by his parents Richard and Melba May, as well as his brother Richard and his twin Eddy. He was born in Sydney, Australia and became a schoolteacher. He taught in Sydney and in England, and in Vancouver, Canada, at Sir Sanford Fleming and Lord Kitchener. He discerned a call to the priesthood and after studying in Rome, was ordained at the age of 41 on March 27, 1971. During his years of active ministry in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, he had four assignments in religious education and six in parish ministry. He is remembered for his years as the Director of the Catholic Information Center, where he taught courses in the Catholic Faith and was the coordinator of the Archdiocesan Pre-Marriage Program, and later for his time as the pastor of St. Jude's, Vancouver, and St. Paul's in Richmond. In his retirement years, he volunteered to be a chaplain on cruise ships and sailed to many parts of the world. His former students, parishioners and brother priests fondly remember him as a friendly, enthusiastic, and joyful person whom everyone loved. Throughout his teaching career, and as a devoted priest, he touched the lives of thousands of people. "Well done, good and faithful servant". Matt.25:21. Prayers: January 18, St. Paul's, Richmond at 7:30 pm. Funeral: January 19, Holy Rosary Cathedral, Vancouver at 10:00 am, celebrated by Archbishop Michael Miller, C.S.B.
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/
Acknowledgement of Country - This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians of this region.
We respectfully acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First People of this country. We pay our respects to the Kombumerri people, who are the traditional custodians of the land, waterways and seas upon which we live, work and socialise throughout this Catholic Parish of Surfers Paradise. We acknowledge Elders, past and present and emerging, as they hold the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of our Indigenous people. We pay tribute to those who have contributed in many ways to the life of the community. We affirm our commitment to justice, healing, and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
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