PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
You are no longer required to scan the Check-In Qld app when entering the church for Masses, funerals or baptisms. You do, however, need the Check-In App for weddings and for use in some locations like hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, bars, etc.
"If you love those who love you, …. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that." (Luke 6:27-38)
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID:2076686056 Love your Enemies - Luke 6:27 - Bible verse Typographic Design – Contributor: KujurDesignHut)
PASTOR'S POST. What is Too Much?
Last year two of the world's richest people (Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk) both went into space, (not as far into space as you might have thought), using rockets that were built by their own companies using some of their many billions of dollars. The purpose of these flights seemed to be more of a competition between the two rather than any research into outer space and its limitations. Each trip took only a few hours, and since their return, I have heard nothing of what was achieved other than a "fantastic experience" and the hope that one day everyone might be able to have the same trip. This raises a question for me as to just because they could afford to, is it sufficient to say that they can do what they like with their own money? Is that a God-given truth or is it just a justification we have given to others so that we might do the same if given untold wealth? I say 'given' in that all that we have is given to us by others, although we usually call it earned or inherited.
I read in the Australian newspaper this week that there is an apartment in Sydney that is for sale at $100 million dollars. That is 8 zeros (100,000,000) if you are interested. I have no doubt it will be magnificent and will have spectacular views. Possibly six or seven car spaces, but it did not mention its own infinity pool or 20 person media room. I admit that I would like to see inside this "piece of heaven on earth" and possibly marvel at the range of appliances to make the life of the occupants comfortable, but I cannot accept that anyone, despite their wealth or however pleasant they may be, should live in a house, villa, apartment or flat that costs that much. Just because some people can afford something, does not mean they should.
I can hear you say, we live in a free world and it should be nobody else's business how others spend their hard-earned (or otherwise) cash, but I genuinely believe that until all people in our country have the most basic of human needs met, then $100 million dollar accommodation, is not just unnecessary, it is morally wrong. I may be even erring on the side of socialism, but I think in this country, that we always refer to being lucky, we should have limits, upper and lower, in between which we can all live, mostly happily I should imagine, if we spread our good fortune fairly.
Now I do confess I have not thought through how this equitable distribution should take place and who should monitor who is entitled to what, but where does it stop and why have we convinced ourselves that there is some type of entitlement that is attached to those who are excessively wealthy. I suppose my real quandary is whether there is any link to elaborate housing, or an Aston Martin DB11 car for $590,000, or a Hermes Birkin Crocodile skin handbag for $329,000 with free delivery, (yes, you read that correctly), or an eye-watering Patek Philippe pre-owned wristwatch for $318,000 and being happy. I know that's what seems to be the motivation or quest, but has anyone surveyed the owners of these precious treasures and asked about the levels of contentment. (The last item I mentioned was referred to as a collector's item. Whatever happened to collecting beer cans or coins from foreign countries)?
I know there is no rule against people being able to earn massive salaries or inheriting vast fortunes, that's just the way western democracies work, but from an ethical perspective, does anybody really earn millions of dollars or is this what happens when capitalism and the free market system join forces. It's at this point the phrase "lucky for some" seems to kick in.
This is not a recent approach for me, and when I once expressed this contention publically, as I do now, I was told that Karl Marx had a similar philosophy when he promoted communism. I had the presence of mind then and now to suggest that it was also along the lines of the other great promoter of the common good, Jesus Christ. They are not so different in their outcomes, but vastly different in their method and intention. Jesus wanted us to know that we are stewards of God's gifts, not owners, who have a responsibility to ensure that the disadvantaged are given every assistance to improve their lives. We are to share our resources not possess them. He made no reference to how or why certain are disadvantaged, we added that little condition so that we could differentiate the deserving poor from the ones who just didn't try to change their situation. And therein lies the great problem. Who are the deserving poor and equally who are the deserving rich and where do you fit in?
Fr Peter Dillon PP.
NEW FEATURE OF THE NEWSLETTER
SHARE IN REFLECTION FOR AN UPCOMING WEEKEND'S SCRIPTURES:
In order to deepen our appreciation of God's Holy Word, each week you are invited to read the Scriptures for Sunday Masses a few weeks ahead. After you have prayerfully read these texts from the Bible, spend some time in silent contemplation and prayer over these texts. Then read the Scriptures over again slowly and meditatively. Write down anything in the readings that delights you, intrigues you, confuses you, challenges you and so on. Also, write down any thoughts that come up to you about these texts and what they are saying to you. You are welcome to share these thoughts in the feedback process in this link. Please come to this site every week and engage in this advanced preparation and immersion into God's living word which cuts finer than any knife and is lifegiving and nourishing for our lives here and now. Please visit the following link and join in the process. An insight, question or observation may end up in the weekly homily too. https://scripturereflectioninprogress.blogspot.com/
BRISBANE HAS A NEW, SECOND, ASSISTANT BISHOP
The Episcopal Ordination of Timothy John Norton SVD as Auxiliary Bishop of Brisbane will be celebrated at the Cathedral of St Stephen on Tuesday 22 February at 10.30 am.
Bookings have closed for attendance of this event, which is ticketed due to covid limitations. However, you will be able to live-stream the Ordination via this link: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/multimedia/web-cast/
Please keep Bishop-elect Tim in your prayers as he prepares for his future ministry amongst us.
SPCL BINGO
Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies will be having their Bingo on Tuesday the 1st of March 2022, from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
As we are having the function in a Public venue full Covid vaccination is Compulsory.
Masks should be worn upon entrance to the venue.
Please phone Maxine Sela 0421051193 or Wendy Webb, 0412237832 to book your seat for this day.
Saint Vincent's Primary School Enrolments-
We are currently processing Prep 2023 enrolment applications. If you have a child that is turning 5 before the 30th June 2023 please go to our website and complete an online enrolment application.
ONLINE LENTEN RETREAT
It's almost time for Lent. We would like to invite your parishioners to our upcoming online retreat titled High Horses, Scapegoats and Donkeys: A Lenten Odyssey. Here's a little description of it.
"This retreat takes us into the realm of tears, the tears of compunction that St Benedict talks about in his chapter on Reverence in Prayer (RB 20). It is a calling forth of ourselves to a new and more authentic living; a dive into the deep; a naming of the truth of who we are before God. It is not a fear-based compunction that we will enter into, but rather a compunction based on a deep desire to be in oneness with God."
Below is a link to our brochure. We would be very grateful if you could share this with your parishioners, perhaps by putting a copy of the brochure on your notice board or mentioning it in your bulletin.
Thank you and God bless.
With our prayers for your parish, Benedictine Nuns of Jamberoo Abbey
Download Brochure (Benedictine Nuns online Lenten Retreat)
Download Brochure (Benedictine Nuns online Lenten Retreat)
HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish on 5576 6466
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish 5572 5433
John Flynn Hospital -Coolangatta-Tugun Parish on 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp-Southport Parish 5510 2222
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
LENT MASS TIME - Photo by Ahna Ziegler on Unsplash
Ash Wednesday Mass - 9 am and 6pm - both at Sacred Heart Church - 50 Fairway Drive Clear Island Waters Queensland 4226, 2nd March 2022. two Masses only on that day.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time - C
A VOCATION VIEW: If you love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you and pray for those who mistreat you, realise that God has already called YOU.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544
vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - "Not easy to love our enemies"
"But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend without expecting anything back…" (LUKE 6:35). Easier said than done, right? But, if we are to imitate Christ, most of us need to practice mercy and compassion more frequently. Start with the little daily annoyances that we experience, the unkind word or hateful glances we receive. Instead of plotting revenge on that person, try saying a quick prayer for that person. Praying for our enemies doesn't change them, it changes us. Mercy and compassion will keep us on the path to holiness. 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: (Please keep in contact with us, so that we can keep these names up-to-date and to let us know when to remove the name from the list). Kath Kiely, Carmel Bright, Joanne Mooney, Bobby Caspersz, Zeb Deane, Miriam Hill, Jayani Antony, Amando A. Mirasol Jr., Gus Reeves, John & Molly Robinson, Laila Mikael, Dominique Corbello, Jean Di Benedetto, Anthea McMullan, James Goodwin, Scott Mitchell, Malcolm Ward, John O'Brien, Ludwig Mueller, Kent Vince, Terry Collins, Colleen Grehan, Carmelita Dulu, Judy Alexander, Sr Mary Teresa, John Davis, 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 Parkes, Michelle MacDonald, Mary Kerr. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.
RECENTLY DECEASED: Rose Refalo, Rita Stower, Sue Crossdale, Bette Edwards, Mark Behan, Stan Nalepa, Naurelle Cahill, Laurie Pope, Peter Cotton, Maurice Attard, Wendy McLachlan, Leonard Forbes, Terrence McEvoy, Ken Walker, Barry Owens, Michael Samuel, Marie Ashby, James Perry Saunderson, Donna Maree Faulkner, Dell O'Neill, Martin James Kerlin, John Terrence McGillan, Malcolm Holmes, Francee Beckman, Margaret Paterson, Nicole Summons, Fred Hocking, James (Jim) Kirk Snr, Fr Norman Ronald Birch, Margaret Kelly, Stephen Baker, Tony Tongue, John William Maddocks, Veronica Smith, Keiran Davey (Ireland), Lourdes Abelardo.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Peg Perkins, Sarah Clancy, Patricia Anderson, Veronica Bond, Jabour Haddad, Milan Piglich, Bernie Tathem, Mary Schreiber, Andre Bellony, Allan Thomas Vaughan, Jerzy Wieczorek, Maria Eidejus, Raymond Gardiner, Thomas James Michael (Mike) Farrell, Brian Peter Pinard, George Ferguson Shaw, Hans Wagner, Theodore Cocks, Gregory London, Mary Ng Siew Kuen, Neil Bloxsidge, Valerie Mary Elshaw, Stanislaw Zbigniew Zielinski, Michael Patrick Robertson, Dorothy de Launey, Giuseppe Nardi, Joy Whitbread, Bill Hignett, Peggy Doreen Norris, Kaylene Ellen Swan. And also, Colman O'Byrne, Angelina Mandarino, James Ryan, Marija Ac, Charles Robinson (Husband of Connie), James Douglas Hendrie, Barry Thomas Haug, Antonija Saceric , Mary Agnes Joan Geard, George McLeod, Myra Edna Moffatt, Sue Chard, Leila Floyd, Lara Michelle Kennedy, Norman James Thomson, Fr Bryan Lee, Len Heffernan, Mollie O'Byrne, Peg Perkins, Alan Morgan, Joan Frances Hurley, Barclay Hodge, Jeanette (Jenny) Avery.
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)
MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady Of Fatima on 13.03.2022. 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 Meals are available at the church canteen( Morning Tea and Sandwiches for 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,
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH: It's a long road to freedom
Justice feels good—if we're on the side of the angels when it's meted out. This means in most cases, the struggle for justice will cost us. This was certainly true for Frederick Douglass (1818-95), born enslaved yet becoming the first black American to gain a vote for president of the United States. As he wrote in his 1852 July Fourth speech: "The . . . conscience of the nation must be roused . . . the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be denounced." On this World Day of Social Justice, consider the price you're willing to pay for justice. "Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:27-38. SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY - www.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe
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 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.
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 email 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. Currently over 60 children from our Surfers Paradise Parish are completing their At Home Program for Reconciliation.
The children will celebrate the First Rite of Reconciliation on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 6:30 pm. Please keep these children and their families in your prayers at this time, as together they continue to learn and grow in God's love and abundant forgiveness.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First Holy 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 the 2022 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.
Parents who have completed and submitted the online form 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 available on our parish website at www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au (under News)
Pope Francis wants to hear from us! - Last Days to Have your Say!
Until March 13 2022 (the date was recently extended by an extra week), all Catholics are invited to have their say about their experiences of 'synodality' – of walking together as a Church.
All submissions received nationally will help the Australian Bishops develop a report to support the global process leading to an international gathering in 2023. This is not to be confused with the Australian Plenary Council which is running concurrently with the Synod. The Plenary Council focus is on the Church in Australia. The Synod is focused on the Church globally.
Your voice matters, and it could be as simple as getting together with family, friends or fellow parishioners and having a "Coffee Conversation". This short video offers encouragement on how easy it can be to have your say: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrgZ-N79Kf0.
You can make your submission here: https://www.catholic.org.au/synodalchurch
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 March 13, 2022.
THIS WEEKEND'S GOSPEL - A New and Loving World View
What does it mean for us to, (as St Paul says so wonderfully in the second reading), "bear the image of the one of Heaven?" Or, as another translation says: "be modelled on the Heavenly man, (Jesus)."
Surely it means, we open ourselves up to the Lord's grace, teaching and values and allow ourselves to be reshaped into an icon of Christ's grace, mercy, and compassion. It means a deeper union with Christ – to the point of exercising our thinking, abilities, and powers in union with how Christ acts.
The first reading is quite challenging… David has been persecuted quite unjustly by King Saul, who is suffering from terrible delusions and jealousy and paranoia about David. David has been nothing but loyal to him but Saul will not be satisfied. War breaks out but David and his army are given the chance to kill Saul and David refuses to do so. This is not the first time this will happen.
It's a striking lesson… Just because we have been given the power to lift up and to cast down, and simply because we have within us the ability to kill or to heal, does not mean that we should use our freedom to destroy, to avenge or to harm. David unites himself to God's patient, loving forbearance - he does not lower himself to repay the wrongdoing of others with the same behaviour. He does not return bad for bad. Rather, he uses God's perfect antidote; – returning love and kindness for wrongdoing. Cancelling it out, rather than multiplying it. This is a radical and otherworldly solution, but clearly, it is Divine wisdom.
As David says so beautifully …. "Today the Lord put you in my power, but I would not raise my hand against the Lord's anointed.'" In this instance, David used his ability to be modelled upon the values and actions of God's ways and not human ways… and the results are refreshing, surprising and wonderful. Once where it seemed only one solution to the problem of King Saul and David. One strikes the other down. Now there is a beautiful second option… reconciliation and rebuilding. We are invited to give from God's gracious and compassionate love within, rather than to mirror or give back what one receives from the selfish, narrow actions of others.
Our Lord confirms this Heavenly mindset in the gospel…. He teaches us a very challenging message that goes against base instinct… Do good to those who harm you and pray for them… go further than the minimum……
The word "love" used by Our Lord in this teaching is not the same as for family or friends or a spouse… but it's a love that wishes the best and only the good for another, irrespective of their actions. Wanting for everyone that dignity and respect and good that anyone deserves as a child of God, whether they themselves have acted in ways befitting of their status as children of God.
Do this, and 'you will be children of the Most-High, for God himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.'
BE generous, not stingy or selfish; loving and compassionate, not gossiping, or judging; Merciful, not vengeful and precious. .... The standard by which we will be judged is going to be the standard with which we treat others!
Are we tempted to be offended when someone slights us? Are we outraged when someone wrongs us? But then we look at Our Lord… who is deserving of all honour, obedience, and service…
At times, each of us has offended the Lord, slighted him… not given God his due, deliberately or carelessly chosen to do what is wrong… God would have been within his rights to become furious, to lash out, punish, to cast us away…. But God does not… (thank goodness!). {So many times I thank God that we humans are not God because the results would be disastrous and capricious}. Rather, Our Lord is full of love, mercy, and forbearance…
Thanks be to God, that the Lord does not choose to exercise his rights against us when we have wronged him time and time again. And if we are truly to model ourselves on the Heavenly Person, and bear the image of the one of Heaven, then we too must have the same attitudes and responses when we are offended, slighted or wronged. How different would the world and our local communities be if this was the full reality?
Otherwise, as Jesus points out, if our goodness and kindness go no further than our family and friends and those we are already in goodwill with, what difference is that from the pagans and the sinners… They are kind to their kin and friends… Christ invites us to be fully immersed in his ways, not just dipping our toes into the waters of baptism we have received.
The golden rule is in many ways a universal rule… also found in other religious traditions. (Jewish, Greek, even Confucian) … but in each of these traditions. it is framed negatively and in a limiting way… namely… "don't do things to people you wouldn't like people to do to you." But in Christ, this teaching goes much further! … It is expressed in a wonderfully positive light! and not merely a negative one… That is, it is not merely refraining from doing what you would not want to be done to you, but also doing the good things for others that you would want people to do for you! Christ's saying itself, "goes the extra mile…"
-To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks.
((References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; Barclay, W. (1975). The Gospel of Luke. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: St. Andrew Press).
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. 1828646321 Be merciful bible words with the sky over mountain background – Contributor: -Naitham)
Peter Damian:
In the short treatise Dominus vobiscum (The Book of "The Lord be with You") (PL 145:231-252), he questions whether a hermit praying in solitude should use the plural; Damian concludes that the hermit should use the plural since he is linked to the whole church by faith and fellowship.
In this letter, Peter defends his views, an undertaking that takes him into the discussion of the scope of divine power, the possibility of God's annulling the past, and the problems that arise from using the language of human temporality to describe divine possibilities in an eternal present. Damian had claimed that God could indeed restore lost virginity. The central question of the nature and scope of divine power is related to previous discussions of the question and to the more sophisticated debates of the later Middle Ages. Damian's apparent claims that the law of contradiction does not apply to God and that God is able to annul the past deserve recognition. In these discussions, Damian shows himself the equal of any of the dialecticians that he so severely criticises.
The best penance is to have patience with the sorrows God permits. A very good penance is to dedicate oneself to fulfil the duties of every day with exactitude and to study and work with all our strength.
Do not be depressed. Do not let your weakness make you impatient. Instead, let the serenity of your spirit shine through your face. Let the joy of your mind burst forth.
He pours light into our minds, arouses our desire and gives us strength... As the soul is the life of the body, the Holy Spirit is the life of our souls.
Nobody can fight properly and boldly for the faith if he clings to a fear of being stripped of earthly possessions.
We hold our tongues in check because if they are undisciplined they empty the soul of the strength of heavenly grace, and weaken its healthful vigour.
For the wisdom of the flesh brings death, but that of the spirit brings life and peace, since the wisdom of the flesh is the enemy of God; it is not subject to God's law, nor can it be. And since the wisdom of the flesh is unable to bear the yoke of God's law, it cannot look upon it either, for its eyes are clouded with the smoke of pride.
And what more should I say since sin expels the whole host of the virtues from the chamber of the human heart and introduces every barbarous vice as if the bolts of the doors were pulled out.
Feast of The Chair of St Peter
"He who deserts the Chair of Peter, upon whom the Church was founded, does he trust himself to be IN the Church?" (St Irenaeus)
"You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Matthew 16:16
"And so I say to you, you are Peter and upon this rock, I will build my church and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18
St Polycarp:
Eighty and six years have I served Christ, nor has He ever done me any harm. How, then, could I blaspheme my King who saved Me? I bless Thee for deeming me worthy of this day and this hour that I may be among Thy martyrs and drink the cup of my Lord Jesus Christ.
Let us, therefore, forsake the vanity of the crowd and their false teachings, and turn back to the word delivered to us from the beginning.
Beware of greed and remain pure and just. Restrain yourself from every vice. He who cannot restrain himself, how will he be able to teach others restraint?
By grace ye are saved, not of works,' but by the will of God through Jesus Christ . .
If we please Him in this present world, we shall also receive the future world, according to as He has promised to us that He will raise us again from the dead and that if we live worthily of Him, 'we shall also reign together with Him,' provided only we believe . . .
Now may the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the eternal high priest himself, the Son of God Jesus Christ, build you up in faith and truth and in all gentleness and in all freedom from anger and forbearance and steadfastness and patient endurance and purity.
If you imagine for a moment that I would do that, then I think you pretend that you don't know who I am. Hear it plainly. I am a Christian.
If anyone does not refrain from the love of money, he will be defiled by idolatry and so be judged as if he were one of the heathen.
I exhort you, press on in your course, and exhort all men that they may be saved.
Be all of you subject one to another having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles, that you may both receive praise for your good works, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But woe to him by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct
(facing martyrdom). "But why do you delay? Come, do what you will."
POPE FRANCIS: Some Mysteries are too deep for words
Pope Francis has 'no explanation' for why God lets children suffer.
Pope Francis fielded a wide range of questions in an hour-long TV interview. By his own admission, one of them left him stumped.
In an hour-long interview on Italian state broadcaster RAI's Channel 3, Pope Francis explained that he shunned the spacious but insulated papal apartments in the Vatican's Apostolic Palace used by his predecessors because he is "no saint" and needs to be surrounded by people, as well as revealing that he likes to dance the tango.
Pope Francis admitted he had "no explanation" for why God would allow children to suffer during a rare TV talk show appearance on Sunday.
The head of the Catholic Church appeared on the Italian talk show "Che tempo che fa," hosted by journalists Fabio Fazio and Filippa Lagerback, for an hour-long interview that aired on Sunday night, local time.
He answered a wide range of questions on serious issues, such as the threat of Russia invading Ukraine, and some lighter ones, like his love of classical music.
But one question had no answer.
Asked why he thought God would allow children to suffer, the Pope conceded he was stumped.
"I have no explanation for that," Francis responded, according to The Associated Press. "I have my faith and try to love God, my father. But why do children suffer? I have no answer for that."
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. 441803449 - Turin, Italy - June 21, 2015 : Pope Francis on the popemobile kiss child
Contributor: - MikeDotta)
SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT'S RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS
The CATHOLIC LEADER is a monthly newspaper available on the first Sunday of every month. The first edition for 2022 is available at the churches now. Price $4.
SPCL BINGO
"Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies will be having their Bingo on Tuesday the 1st of March 2022, from 10.00am to 2.00pm.
As we are having the function in a Public venue full Covid vaccination is Compulsory.
Masks should be worn on entrance to the venue.
Please phone Maxine Sela 0421051193 or Wendy Webb, 0412237832 to book your seat for this day."
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady's Statue in the Parish
The hosting of Our Lady's statue has been going on within our Parish after a brief stop at the start of Covid for the last one and a half years.
The Statue has been around the Parish with brief notices in the newsletter
Listed below is the roster of people having the statue for the next four weeks. I would like parishioners who have not had the statue previously,
to take our lady into their home, say the rosary and have her for at least a week
The statue can be picked up from the Parish office on a Monday and then returned to the Parish office the following Monday. You may have a special day in the next few
months that you would wish the statute to be at your home. You can book the week in advance. Please phone Maxine Sela on 0421 051 193 if you wish to have the statue. .
21/2/2022 Bernadette Hensley Arundel
28/2/2022 Bernadette Hensley Arundel
7/3/2022 Blanche Braganza Benowa
14/3/2022 Blanche Braganza Benowa
21/3/222 Coutinho Family Broadbeach
28/3/2022 Coutinho Family Broadbeach
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
Spring has sprung! Join Rochelle for a fun functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65's. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle for further information on 0438 333 308.
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB- (In its Twentieth Year in 2022)-
Meets at the Sacred Heart - Parish Hospitality Centre, Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters.
Playing Bridge keeps your brain active and increases your social network! So why not give us a try?
Learn to play Bridge at "Our Friendly Club" - Free Lesson. "Introduction to Bridge"
Easy to learn format, no previous card playing experience necessary. All are welcome.
For more information and to enrol, Please phone: Cheryl 5538 8821 or Mob 0417 772 701
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE-
Come join us for our friendly class in the Parish Hospitality Centre next to the Parish Office. Classes run every Tuesday at 10:45 am. Learn to relax, yet gain greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness and concentration, all while increasing your breath support and general wellbeing. Ruth is an IYTA accredited instructor with wide experience and runs a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session costing $10 (new attendees need to arrive by 10.30 am to prepare adequately for class). For more information, call Ruth on 0421338110.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP - Due to the 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.
REJOICE - MORNING PRAISE - FROM SHALOM MEDIA ONLINE TV.
Fr Paul - https://www.shalomworld.org/episode/love-is-at-the-heart-of-law-fr-paul-kelly
SHALOM TV is an online catholic resource that has wonderful programs for praise, meditation and reflection. Also, some excellent programs on family and faith. There is a program called Rejoice, which comes on every morning and has prayer and song to God at the start of the day. Fr Paul was invited to share two editions of Rejoice, featuring two of the hymns he wrote. Here is the link: https://www.shalomworld.org/episode/love-is-at-the-heart-of-law-fr-paul-kelly
NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL (2022) - 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
Position Vacant – Finance Officer - Burpengary
Applications are open for a position at the Burpengary Parish. A person with excellent finance experience is 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: 21 February 2022
Position Vacant – Pastoral & Sacramental Coordinator - Darra Jindalee
Applications are open for a position at the Darra Jindalee Parish. This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic committed person to join the Parish team and assist them with the coordination of a variety of pastoral ministry programs such as the Sacramental program, Sunday School program and Religious Instruction in the State Schools. This is a 22 hour a week position. https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities
Application close: 21 February 2022
ADULT FAITH - Holy Days of Obligation.
This last year, and even now, the idea of Holy Days of Obligation has been a bit different.
This is because, with Covid restrictions, a large percentage of people have been unable to attend Mass or have been advised to avoid gathering with large numbers of people for their own health. So, in an unusual step, but quite understandable in the circumstances, the ordinary obligation to attend Sunday mass or "Holy Days of Obligation" has been suspended for those who are not able to attend due to limited numbers, or due to particular health risks for older and vulnerable members of the community. The Archbishop continues this dispensation for everyone until the situation normalises some time in the future. People are strongly encouraged to keep these holy days special by watching Livestream Masses and also reading the scriptures of the day or joining in Mass with the assistance of podcasts such as our parish regularly publishes.
Just out of interest, a question was raised about how many Holy Days of obligation are usually to be found in the annual Church calendar. This is a bit complicated, as each regional Bishops Conference is given some freedom to choose whether some major Solemnities are celebrated on the traditional date or whether they should, for various pastoral reasons be moved to the nearest Sunday. So, this is why some regions have variations. Nevertheless, the basic answer is this - Holy Days of Obligation:
(In ordinary non-Covid circumstances), there are usually fifty-four Holy Days of obligation for the Catholic Church in Australia. The Holy Days of Obligation are 15th August, (The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary), and 25th December (Christmas). Each Sunday is also, (in ordinary non-Covid circumstances), a holy day of obligation for Christians.
The importance of a celebration in the liturgical calendar is determined by its Rank (whether it is a solemnity, feast or a memorial). Establishing a holy day of obligation simply means that a solemnity is celebrated like a Sunday (no matter what day the feast day occurs). Its actual rank does not change.
You will note that, although celebrations like Ash Wednesday, and Good Friday and All Saints Day and All Souls Day, and the First of January - the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God, are wonderful and very sacred and special feasts and Solemnities, they are actually not Holy Days of Obligation, but are very highly recommended and extremely spiritually fruitful as well as popularly attended.
Fr Paul Kelly
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment