PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
"Don't be afraid; from now on you will fish for people." (Luke 5:10)
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. ID: 80818450 - The New American Standard Bible Open To Isaiah's Commission In Chapter 8 Verse 6; "Here I Am. Send Me!" Contributor: Vibe Images)
PASTOR'S POST. New Ways for New Times
This week we welcome the arrival of Bradley Davies, a fifth-year seminarian from Holy Spirit Seminary at Banyo in Brisbane.
Bradley will be with us for the rest of the year, hoping to get a hands-on experience of parish life, as well as discover areas where he can develop his talents, as he prepares for pastoral life in an Archdiocese that is changing every day in its culture and demography.
In its early days, the formation of young men for the priesthood was largely seen as an academic exercise making sure that they were intellectually fit for the theological dilemmas they might have to face in their future ministry. It was also important that they came to understand the implications of remaining single for life and all that that implies. Much time used spent ensuring that the celibate life was accepted entirely if not quite fully understood.
Unfortunately in those times, there was little time spent in observing the pastoral aspects of priestly work, meaning that there were many men who were able to plumb the depths of moral, sacramental and spiritual concerns, but often ill-equipped for the day to day rigours of parish life, like rebellious youth or fractured marital relationships, not to mention management of parish funds and workplace health and safety issues. These days there are a large number of issues for pastors within parishes that require an understanding of accounting practices, industrial laws, child safety, technology, building and maintenance and personnel management and a dozen other secular concerns that are part of parish life in 2022.
Hence the reason why Bradley is coming to our busy parish, firstly to observe what may be required of him as he progresses to ordination, but also to inform him about what skills he will need to navigate the unfolding culture of our church.
Another noticeable difference of priestly life was that until relatively recently there was a range of different ministries that priests of certain talents could pursue.
Several priests were trained to be chaplains in prisons, hospitals and schools, while others were better suited to further studies so that they might teach in schools or universities or work in administration or media. While it was required that all priests were ordained to celebrate the sacraments, not all were suited to work parish life. These days, because of the low numbers of clergy, nearly all fit and able clergy are appointed to parishes, whether that is their talent or not. Another change was to raise the retirement age of priests to 75 years instead of the 70 years that was in place for many years.
The Seminary has been the house of formation for over 80 years, opening in 1941, preparing men for ordination for the five dioceses of Queensland. Originally built to house over 130 hundred students it was relocated in 1998 on the grounds of The Australian Catholic University. For most years up until the 1980s, it was not unusual to have 8 to 10 ordinations a year. These days while the new seminary has accommodation for 25 students and several staff members, there are presently only 12 students spread over 7 years for the same five dioceses.
Clearly, this does not augur well for the future of the ordained ministry in our state, indeed for the whole of the country, as a similar decline in vocations has impacted every part of the country.
While there is no way of predicting how many Queensland priests will die, retire or even leave the active ministry each year, clearly there is a pressing need for looking at new forms of parish leadership coming for the non-ordained, the laity. Where these people come from and with what training and commitment, is uncertain at the moment, but moves should be made immediately to move in this direction as it seems clear that we will have nowhere near the number of ordained men to cater for our present needs.
I'm sure you will make Bradley feel welcome and assist him in whatever ways you can. My hope is that he won't be too overcome with what will be asked of him now and in the future, but more importantly he needs to know that he will be working in collaboration with a number of people who are happy to share in his ministry. We cannot do it alone.
Fr Peter Dillon PP
PREPARATION FOR THE PRIESTHOOD - PASTORAL INTERNSHIP YEAR BRADLEY DAVIES
Hi! My name is Bradley Davies, and I have just begun my pastoral internship year with you as part of my training for the Priesthood. I have grown up on the north side of Brisbane, where my family – mum, dad, and younger brother still reside. I enjoy following the Brisbane Broncos, with whom I have been a season member since 2005, and am a big fan of the Star Wars franchise. I also like keeping fit by running and gym workouts, and maybe adding swimming in the surf to my list this year!
Before I started my journey towards priesthood, I was a primary school teacher. I taught at Our Lady of Good Counsel Primary school in Gatton in 2016 and 2017, where I taught a year 4 class, and also did some supply teaching. I have been in the Seminary, where we study and learn, for the past four years. Of all the Theology, Philosophy, and human formation I have received, I have mostly enjoyed learning about liturgy, the bible, leadership and Pastoral Theology. I am now spending this year, up until Christmas, in Surfers Paradise parish, where I look forward to many practical and pastoral experiences and learnings. I look forward to meeting you, and I also look forward to working with Fr Peter, Fr Paul, and many of you who are involved in the many ministries and activities in the parish and wider community. Seminarian Bradley Davies
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
(Please note that with covid restrictions and isolation, many hospitals and nursing homes are only
allowing priests to visit for end-of-life care. Also, a few of our local priests are recovering from covid and so sick calls may be disrupted for a few weeks.
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.
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
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm Friday 4th February. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678 "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" MT 26:40
FIRST SATURDAY MASS
Saturday the 5th of February 2022, First Saturday Mass, followed by Adoration and Benediction. Sacred Heart Church, 9 am.
RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION
Calling any Parishioners who would be interested in helping with Religious instruction (RI) lessons at state schools, either by teaching or being an assistant in schools on the Gold Coast.
Males and females are welcome and training is given.
A retired teacher would be amazing.
With peoples busy lives and now the requirement to be "vaxed," we are looking for more RI teachers.
Volunteering for even one (30 minute) lesson would be helpful.
Fortunately for Queenslanders, Religious Education lessons are part of the state school curriculum.
That allows for a half hour (30 minutes) lesson to students per week.
Generous responses to this request would be deeply appreciated. Kind regards, Margaret Macnamar. contact at mwhitaker035@gmail.com
LUNAR NEW YEAR MASS
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.
WONDERFUL GENEROSITY - A LOCAL GOOD NEWS STORY
Saint Vincent's Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) -
2021 brought us all many unique challenges. However, these challenges have reminded us of the value of family, of community and of looking out for one another.
Despite the challenging moments, 2021 has still been a great year for many reasons. At St Vincent's OSHC we sent Care Packages to our Anzac soldiers serving in Australia & Overseas. We received some letters of appreciation back & even received some gifts in return. We received wonderful feedback regarding our Assessment & Rating which we are extremely proud of and we wrote letters & made gifts for the local residents of Cypress Gardens Aged care home whose families have been restricted at times to be able to visit them.
Please see below some examples of the letters & gifts we received from recipients of our care packages, including from soldiers who received our care packages too, one of which actually attended St Vincent's Primary School!! As well as the presents the children made that we presented to our residents of Cypress Gardens aged Care homeSincerely,
Natalie & staff - St Vincent's OSHCH
Letters and pictures -
To Natalie Davis
Coordinator
St Vincent's OSHC
22 Fairway Drive
Clear Island Waters 4226
Dear Natalie,
May I extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, the staff, and all your spectacular students for reaching out so wonderfully to our socially isolated residents over Christmas with the lovely gifts and cards prepared and delivered to us.
The response was overwhelming from all residents, from witnessing their reactions firsthand I can honestly say all their hearts were filled with love knowing someone was thinking of them during this time. As you can understand, during the Christmas period, it becomes a really hard time for the residents who unfortunately no longer have family or friends and that can become difficult for them to get into the Christmas spirit. Having the surprise of not only the beautifully made presents but also the thought of a stranger sending their love and wishes to them really brings joy and warmth to their hearts.
Best Wishes to you and all the students for the New Year.
Kind Regards,
Briana McKay
Lifestyle Coordinator
Cypress Gardens Aged Care Residence
We hope you enjoy these photos of some of the residents who give their consent. (See below)
Letters from the Armed Forces -
Good Morning St Vincent's OSHC,
My name is FLTLT Juliette Kalman, I am a doctor in the Royal Australian Air Force, ADF currently deployed overseas.
I am emailing to thank you and your students for the very generous care package and beautiful hand-crafted letter I received last week whilst deployed from Domenika and your school.
I was overwhelmed to receive such a thoughtful package but also because, I myself am an ex-student of St Vincent's Primary School, Clear Island Waters. I attended your school in 2002-2003 when I was in Grade 3 and 4 and graduated from All Saints Anglican School in 2011. Therefore as a former student, it was incredibly heart-warming to feel supported during this deployment not only from Australia but from a school community so close to home for me.
On behalf of the RAAF, ADF and current Medical team I am deployed with, thank you for your support.
Kind Regards,
Dr Juliette Kalman
Flight Lieutenant (O3)
Aviation Medical Officer (AVMO) Senior Medical Officer (SMO) / AEOO
Congratulations Saint Vincents OSHC for the wonderful and caring work. We were so delighted we wanted to share it with the parish. God bless, Fr PK.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
A VOCATION VIEW:
Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time - C
A VOCATION VIEW: God does not ask you to be successful: God does ask you to be faithful. Put your vocation ahead of your career.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544
vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - "WHOM SHALL I SEND?"
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?' 'Here I am,' I said, 'send me!'" (Isaiah 6:8)
Every day, in little ways and in big ways, God asks, "Whom shall I send?" Whether it is someone to take on a new ministry, to give a friendly smile to a stranger or to say a word of encouragement to a friend, God constantly provides opportunities to help someone in need. God is always talking to us; we just need to pay more attention. When you hear God calling have the courage to walk through the door and say "Here I am, Lord."
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: Miriam Hill, Jayani Antony, Amando A. Mirasol Jr., Mark Behan, 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: Wendy McLaughlan, Leonard Forbes, Terrence McEvoy, Ken Walker, Barry Owens, Michael Samuel, Monica Doyle, 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, 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.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Hans Wagner, Mercedes Rosario, John Reid, Sarah Land, Peter Francis Kennedy, Jim Gardiner, Gloria Mcleod, Vern William Mannix, Paul Barry, Nora Winifred Mcgrath, Gary Patrick Walsh, Nora Winifred (Freda) Mcgrath, Patricia Powell, Mark Connell, Judith Boggan, Geoffrey Williams, Hipolito Trochon, Dalton, Michael, Colleen Eileen McCarthy, Peter James Ryan, Irene Cappellazzo, Terry Maher, Valma Brew. And also: Peter Capolupo, Maria Beer, Ronda Jean Terese Hall, Anna Marinic, Berice May Flannery, David William Foster, Raymond John Ford, Teresa Jackson, Hilda O'Donnell, John Gordon, Jack O'Donnell, Patricia Mary Flori, Michael O'Brien, Veronica Mary Moore, John David (Jack) Kelly, Brian Moon, Les Alford, Dolores Mary Barakat, Antoun Christophi and Terese Salama, Leslie (Les) Gloster Alford, Judith Anne Jones, James Hendrie.
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)
SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD:
The Church in Australia will celebrate the Sunday of the Word of God on the first Sunday in February each year, (starting from last year - 2021).
Pope Francis last year instituted the celebration when issuing the apostolic letter "Aperuit Illis." The letter encouraged the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God.
The date for marking the Sunday of the Word of God was set as the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time.
The Australian bishops, in light of the regular coincidence of the Australia Day holiday or associated long weekend with the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, decided to choose another date to mark the occasion. The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference this week confirmed that date as the first Sunday in February.
"The bishops recognised the need to create a Sunday free from potential distraction when setting the date for the Sunday of the Word of God," said Archbishop Patrick O'Regan, chair of the Bishops Commission for Liturgy.
"The date was chosen to retain close proximity to the international celebration but to avoid the clash with the Australia Day observance. The choice of date also ensures it falls before the start of Lent."
The National Centre for Evangelisation together with the National Office for Liturgy is preparing a number of resources to help individuals, families, parishes, schools and other ministries commemorate the Sunday of the Word of God.
"The Church's love for Sacred Scripture is often misunderstood or underestimated, so this occasion offers us the opportunity to celebrate the Word of God in new and diverse ways," Archbishop O'Regan said.
Among the many different ways in which Catholics and Catholic communities are being encouraged to mark the day is a special display of Sacred Scripture or the Book of the Gospels, the establishment of Bible study groups or the adoption of "Lectio Divina," a common practice of reflection on Scripture.
"The Second Vatican Council explained that the proclamation of the Word is one of the primary ways the faithful encounter Christ's sacramental presence during the liturgy," Archbishop O'Regan said.
"May the first Sunday in February became a day when that presence is felt and celebrated in a particular way."
(Extra resources for reflection - Word of God Sunday https://www.catholic.org.au/wordofgodsunday )
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH: One Human Family in God
Today, in the USA, is the National Day of Prayer for the African American Family. (It is a timely moment too to pray for all the many cultures and races around the world and in Australia, who are beloved members of God's wonderful family, including our first nation people here). It recalls Pope Francis' encouragement of a family feeling among us all: "We need a community that supports and helps us, in which we can help one another to keep looking ahead. How important it is to dream together . . . . Let us dream, then, as a single human family, as fellow travellers sharing the same flesh" (Fratelli Tutti, 8). Pray for unity in families, society, and church. "I am reminding you, brothers and sisters, of the gospel I preached to you . . . and in which you also stand." (1 Corinthians 15:1-11) SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY - www.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR CONSECRATED LIFE on the 2nd February 2022.
In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday to highlight the gift of consecrated persons for the whole Church. We hope you find the following resources helpful for your own World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life celebrations! We invite you to include the prayers attached to the Prayers of the Faithful during your celebrations either on February 2nd or the following Sunday.
For those consecrated to God by the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience that they may seek to live their baptismal promises to love and serve the Lord with open hearts and willing spirits. We pray to the Lord.
For those who have responded to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to be a consecrated person, they may experience the support of the Church as they continue their growth in holiness. We pray to the Lord.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR CONSECRATED LIFE on the 2nd February 2022.
World Day for Consecrated Life will be celebrated in the Church on Wednesday, February 2, 2022. We pray for all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life. Be sure to thank them on their special day. May they continue to be inspired by Jesus Christ and respond generously to God's gift of their vocation.
To find out more about your vocations www.vocationbrisbane.com or phone 1300 133 544
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.
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 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. The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team has prepared a program similar in style to our 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 have been invited via email to have their child included in our Reconciliation Preparation Program. Those indicating their interest via reply email have now received the At Home Preparation for Reconciliation Program. If you have not received the invitation email (or you have further questions), please email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
Currently, we are still hoping and planning to celebrate the First Rite of Reconciliation on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 6:30 pm.
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 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)
MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady Of Lourdes on 11.02.2022 and for the Feast day of Our Lady of Fatima on 13.02.2022. The bus will be pick up passengers 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 a 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 - HERE I COME, LORD, WORTHY OR NOT
In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah is called by God, but he looks at himself and says,
"I am not worthy"…….and so, in response "God sends an angel to touch Isaiah's lips with a smoking-hot ember and tells him that God has now MADE him worthy… It is God's judgement to deem him worthy of the task he is being assigned, and it is not for Isaiah to second-guess his own usefulness to God.
So, it is not the place of (even) the great prophet Isaiah to tell God what he feels he might be worthy of or not worthy of.
And in any case, there is a lesson here. It is not all about our efforts and will-power, but rather it is primarily about God's grace.
The Prophet Isaiah learns this lesson in the first reading and similarly with Saint Peter in today's Gospel.
Thank goodness for the early disciples. We look up to these wonderful people. But, they are also revealed to be people with weaknesses, foibles, sinfulness, failure, and, (at times), a shocking lack of trust; and hesitancy of faith. And at other times they show fear, and sometimes even cowardice. This list of flawed leaders, reveals how good and wise God is; and how utterly dependent we ALL are, on God's grace. It is not so much about us, but about God!
Without God's grace, we can do nothing.
God makes use of the humble things we have to offer and transforms them according to God's good purposes.
Jesus is not ever saying to us that we should wallow in our sin, or use it as an excuse to stay stuck in our old ways. We know we should never say: 'this is as good as I can be….' // However, God also wants to remind us that our worthiness is not the issue, because actually- (as many great saints throughout history remind us by their own life-stories); none of us is worthy of ourselves. It is God who makes us worthy. We never earn God's love, it is freely given as a generous act of graciousness. None of us is worthy without God; except that we are all lovingly created by God and are made worthy of God's love by God's action. It is God who calls us. And it is God alone who knows what we are capable of. God calls us to fulfil our capabilities.
The difference between the saint and the sinner is not their worthiness before God, but their determination NOT to stay stuck in their weakness or their own wilfulness or limitations, but to put their trust and all their cooperation and openness into God's hands. We are then transformed into instruments of God's love and grace. Living, cooperating instruments in the hand of God, the perfect artist.
St Peter, Saint Paul, Isaiah, Jeremiah…… King David… Saul…. Moses……. the list goes on and on: Great people. People who did God's will. But, ALSO, these same people were at times, terribly weak and sinful. Who sinned. Sometimes they even betrayed their calling or resented or doubted it. But, nevertheless, it was God who called them. God knew them and what they truly could do, and held them to that. They trusted in God's wisdom, mercy and guidance, and of course, relied on God's grace.
Again we can reflect on our own experiences of weakness and forgiveness, both by the Lord and by others. Being forgiven is a humbling experience, but one that allows us, like Isaiah, to step forward and volunteer for the Lord's work.
All of us are invited to reflect on our own refusals, (big and small), where we at times declined to accept God and His power and His presence. God is not there to frighten us, nor to condemn us to be frozen into inaction by our limitations; but, rather, God loves us into being everything God wants for us.
Whenever we accept forgiveness for our weaknesses and failings and put our reliance and our cooperation into God's grace, then we are able to be given over to the work of the Lord.
As with Saint Peter, we can doubt many times and we can deny but eventually when we believe and trust, our lives can be transformed into a reflection of God's mercy, God's compassion and graciousness.
It would be ridiculous for a pencil to refuse to be taken into the hand of a great artist, claiming that it is not talented enough to draw a masterpiece. And it would also be crazy for a pencil to claim credit for the work that was wrought through its important use. Naturally, we know that we are not inanimate objects, and we are not merely passive objects in God's action. God has lovingly and graciously willed that we will always be conscious, helpers, co-workers, and cooperators… heirs and family, participating in God's work. But we always keep in mind whose work it is we are doing and guard against relying too much on our own efforts or our own virtues and going down dead-end paths, and we also avoid the other extreme, inaction when faced with our limitations. Both extremes (which we are called to avoid carefully), are based on putting ourselves in the centre of things instead of God.
But there is more. Did Jesus learn something from his previous rejection in his hometown? He preached alone and this was met with utter rejection. The crowd almost killed him. He narrowly escaped being thrown off a cliff. Now, he goes and calls followers to join him, support him and be companions on the journey; AND, what a hard journey it is. He (as always) calls a community around him.
Simon Peter experiences a great miracle. In the least expected situation, not on a mountain top somewhere, but in the ordinariness of his workplace; he experiences this amazing event because he was humble enough to listen to someone telling him how to do the job he knew so well. Our Lord shows him a new, dramatic and different way… and the results are huge. –
This is a timely reminder to us:
We must connect the gospel to our daily words, actions, and priorities, or it will not make sense.
Secondly…. We …. (Just like the disciples), need to work together… in unity… and in community. Like the disciples who were ALL needed to help haul in the enormous catch of fish…
We must always take our cues, as best we can discern them, from Christ… If it is only about our own individual efforts and priorities, our toil may be heavy and it may be misdirected. We never want to work like slaves on something and find that our struggle was mysteriously fruitless; like the fisherman who laboured all night (and applied all the experience and wisdom of their trade and still caught nothing), but, then Jesus asks them to trust him and follow his ways and do the same activity but under his direction, and they catch more than they can hold.
Jesus' ways are not the most ordinary, and not the most logical. However, they are the way of the gospel, and only by following Our Lord, (which is almost always the road less travelled), can we hope to bear fruit for Jesus good news……
Today let us ask the Lord to deepen our faith and give us the courage to proclaim his marvellous deeds. Let us be able to say: Here I am, Lord. Send me!" -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; Gustavo Gutierrez, Sharing the Word through the liturgical year/; The Abbot, Monastery of Christ in the Desert, http://www.christdesert.org/; reflection from Madonna Magazine, Jan-Feb 2007.)
(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.ID: 2084122570 - Sitges, Spain - November 14, 2021: calling of the holy apostles' Saint Peter and Saint Andrew in Aragonese Gothic style, both saints leaving their fishing boat in the Sea of Galilee to follow Jesus Contributor: Pieruschka )
St Agatha (c 231- c 251)
Jesus Christ, Lord of all things! You see my heart, you know my desires. Possess all that I am - you alone. I am your sheep; make me worthy to overcome the devil. Agatha of Sicily
Lord, my Creator, You have protected me since I was in the cradle. You have taken me from the love of the world and given me the patience to suffer. Now receive my spirit.
St. Scholastica was born in central Italy. She was the twin sister to St. Benedict who founded the Benedictine Order. Their parents were affluent. After Benedict left for the monastery, Scholastica founded a monastery for nuns within five miles of St. Benedict's monastery. St. Benedict was the spiritual director for her monastery.
Benedict and Scholastica were only able to visit with each other once a year. Because she was not allowed in his monastery, they met in a farmhouse where they visited and discussed spiritual matters. According to the Dialogues of St. Gregory the Great, the two saints spent their last day together in prayer and visiting. Benedict refused her request to stay another day, however, a thunderstorm arose preventing him from returning home. St. Scholastica claimed the storm was a result of her prayers. He stayed another day visiting through the night, returning to the monastery the next day. St. Scholastica died three days later in 543. St. Benedict's brethren brought her body to his monastery. She was buried in the tomb he had prepared for himself. St. Benedict had a vision of her soul ascending to heaven in the form of a dove. St. Scholastica is the patron saint against storms.
"I asked you and you would not listen. So I asked my God and he did listen." (St Scholastica)
Our Lady of Lourdes
'I am the Immaculate Conception.'
St Jerome Emiliani (1486–1537)
"God wishes to test you, like gold in the furnace. The dross is consumed by the fire but the pure gold remains and its value increases. It is in this manner, that God acts with His good servant, who puts his hope in Him and remains unshaken in times of distress. God raises him up and, in return for the things, he has left out of love for God, He repays him a hundredfold in this life and with the eternal life hereafter. If then you remain constant in faith, in the face of trial, the Lord will give you peace and rest for a time in this world and forever in the next."
"I urge you to persevere in your love for Christ and your faithful observance of the law of Christ. Our goal is God, the source of all good. As we say in our prayer, we are to place our trust in God and in no one else. In His kindness, our Lord wished to strengthen your faith, for without it, as the evangelist points out, Christ could not have performed many of His miracles."
"Therefore, having done what you could, the Lord will be satisfied with you because, for Him, who is the most benign, goodwill compensates for the lack of success. " (Letter 5 #4)
Saint Josephine Bakhita
I have given everything to my Master: He will take care of me… The best thing for us is not what we consider best, but what the Lord wants of us!The Lord has loved me so much: we must love everyone… we must be compassionate!
Seeing the sun, the moon and the stars, I said to myself, 'Who could be the Master of these beautiful things?' I felt a great desire to see him, to know him and to pay him homage.
I received the Sacrament of Baptism with such joy that only angels could describe…
If I were to meet the slave traders who kidnapped me and even those who tortured me, I would kneel and kiss their hands, for if that did not happen, I would not be a Christian and Religious today… Saint Josephine Bakhita. (This is naturally not to justify the horrific treatment of fellow human beings, to treat them as lesser and abduct them from their homeland, but it does give thanks to God who brings healing and grace out of and despite the disasters and wrongs of human action).
POPE FRANCIS: Visiting the Sick is a Christian Imperative
"The ministry of consolation is a task for every baptized person, mindful of the words of Jesus: 'I was sick and you visited me.'"
Pope Francis visits the Bambino Gesù di Palidoro hospital in Rome, Italy, on Jan. 5, 2018. (photo: Vatican Media)
VATICAN CITY — In a message ahead of the World Day of the Sick, Pope Francis reminded Catholics that caring for the ill and infirm is not the calling of a few, but part of every Christian's mission to show mercy.
"I would like to remind everyone that closeness to the sick and their pastoral care is not only the task of certain specifically designated ministers; visiting the sick is an invitation that Christ addresses to all his disciples," the Pope said.
"How many sick and elderly people are living at home and waiting for a visit," he continued. "The ministry of consolation is a task for every baptized person, mindful of the words of Jesus: 'I was sick and you visited me.'"
The Catholic Church will mark the 30th annual World Day of the Sick on Feb. 11, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in southwestern France is associated with the sick because of the presence of a miraculous spring from which many people have obtained physical healing.
Pope John Paul II instituted the World Day of the Sick as a way "to encourage the people of God, Catholic health institutions, and civil society to be increasingly attentive to the sick and to those who care for them," Pope Francis said.
In his message, Francis focused on mercy in light of this year's theme: "'Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36): Standing beside those who suffer on a path of charity."
God's mercy "combines strength and tenderness," he said, and "the supreme witness of the Father's merciful love for the sick is his only-begotten Son."
Pope Francis, who spent 10 days in hospital last July after colon surgery, pointed out Jesus' great concern for the sick and suffering during his earthly ministry. Jesus encountered many people suffering from disease and he performed miracles of healing.
It is a good idea for us to ask ourselves why Jesus showed such concern, the Pope said, noting that one reason may be the loneliness that people can feel when they are sick or in pain.
Quoting the 20th-century French philosopher Emmanuel Lévinas, the Pope said: "Pain isolates in an absolute way, and absolute isolation gives rise to the need to appeal to the other, to call out to the other."
Jesus, Pope Francis said, invites everyone to show mercy toward those who are unwell: from physicians and nurses to laboratory technicians, support staff, and other caretakers.
While we thank God for the wonderful advances in medical science and technology, never forget "the uniqueness of each patient, his or her dignity and frailties," he urged.
"Patients are always more important than their diseases, and for this reason, no therapeutic approach can prescind from listening to the patient, his or her history, anxieties and fears."
The Pope also emphasized the importance of protecting and preserving Catholic healthcare institutions. "Their presence has distinguished the history of the Church, showing her closeness to the sick and the poor, and to situations overlooked by others," he stated.
Pope Francis created a foundation in October offering financial support to Catholic hospitals in difficulty. The foundation, known in Italian as the Fondazione per la Sanità Cattolica, was established in response to requests for "direct intervention" by the Vatican to help Catholic institutions.
On Dec. 24, it was announced that the new Vatican foundation had joined together with the Leonardo Del Vecchio Foundation to save and relaunch Rome's historic Fatebenefratelli Hospital, which had been facing dire financial straits since 2013.
The nearly bankrupt Catholic hospital on Rome's Tiber Island is run by the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God.
Catholic healthcare is important both in poor countries, where people lack access to adequate care, and in the most developed countries, Pope Francis said, where, "in addition to caring for the body with all necessary expertise, they can always offer the gift of charity, which focuses on the sick themselves and their families."
"At a time in which the culture of waste is widespread and life is not always acknowledged as worthy of being welcomed and lived, these structures, like 'houses of mercy,' can be exemplary in protecting and caring for all life, even the most fragile, from its beginning until its natural end," he said.
Francis closed his message by entrusting all of the sick and their families to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, under the title Health of the Infirm.
"United with Christ, who bears the pain of the world, may they find meaning, consolation, and trust. I pray for healthcare workers everywhere, that, rich in mercy, they may offer patients, together with suitable care, their fraternal closeness," he said.
(Source and image: Hannah Brockhaus/CAN Vatican - January 4, 2022 https://www.ncregister.com/cna/pope-francis-visiting-the-sick-is-a-christian-imperative )
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 will be at the Sacred Heart and St Vincent's churches this Sunday 6th February. Price $4.
The Religious Goods shops are open before and after Mass each weekend. If there is a special item you would like to order, please contact Pat 0404 805 819
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.
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.
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.
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 – Part-time Housekeeper - Holy Spirit Seminary, Banyo
Applications are open for a part-time Housekeeper to assist in the cleaning of the Holy Spirit Seminary. Specific responsibilities include dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, changing linens for 18 hours per week Monday to Wednesday.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers. Applications close 11 February 2022.
Position Vacant – Parish Secretary - Albany Creek Parish
Applications are open for the above position at the Albany Creek Parish. The position is part-time 18 hours a week over 3 days per week (Wed, Thurs & Fri) 8 am to 2.30 pm.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers. Applications close: 14 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
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.
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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