PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” (Luke 10:41-42)
{Shutterstock Licensed Image - Stock Vector ID: 1987028492 - An illustration of Abraham is told that his wife Sarah will bear him a son. Biblical Series - Vector Contributor: AndryDj}
SEMINARIAN’S POST Prayer – what is it?
All of us, at least at some point, have prayed to God. But what do we understand prayer to be exactly? We participate in Mass, pray rosaries, and recite other prayers throughout the day. But what makes this all “prayer?” For a long time I have engaged in many different forms of prayer, including daily Mass and rosary daily. I pray the Liturgy of the Hours (prayer of the Church), pray for safety before travelling, pray for the dying and deceased, and have participated in charismatic worship events. Some participate in some forms of prayer more than others, or some do not participate in certain forms at all. I feel that there must be some common denominator that makes prayer what it is. I can only think that a genuine relationship and connection with God is what truly makes prayer what it is. Attending Mass and reciting prayers are certainly actions of faith and express our true belief in God, but it is only when this leads us into a deeper conversation and encounter with our Lord that this is prayer. Imagine if we said the same prayers for so long, but never experienced anything new. Imagine if you met with the same people in your life day after day, year after year, and you didn’t know them any better today than the first day you met. Who we are interacting with must be at the heart of our prayer life, in whatever prayer means for you.
This means that prayer need not be restricted to a set time throughout the day. Our spiritual director at the Seminary often encourages us to have prayerfulness about our everyday life. This means one not only prays at given times, but also be alert to how God is speaking throughout our everyday life. I have often felt God’s presence while listening to the wind blowing through the trees, or smelling the moisture in the air on a cold morning, and through the encounters I have with people throughout the day. When I am at my busiest, these are often the times people want my attention. Sometimes it feels like God is telling me that this is the reason that I am here doing what I am doing. I am here to serve the people in the midst of paperwork and preparations. I get bogged down in my assignment work, only to find out later what God has revealed to me from that experience. Sometimes I am just sitting in front of the tabernacle and feel God’s soothing presence, and this is enough to get me through the rest of the day.
So however we understand prayer, and whatever forms we use to pray, let us remember that there is someone who is wanting to connect with us. May our prayer patterns not simply remain patterns, but take us on a journey that takes us deeper in communion with God.
Seminarian Bradley Davies
PLENARY COUNCIL - The Second Assembly - NEWS AND ARTICLES
When reflecting on the past four-and-a-half years of preparation and celebration of this Fifth Plenary Council, it’s clear it will take some time to unpack all that occurred last week, and the impact of the motions passed - both at a national level and locally within our parishes and faith communities.
Last Friday evening, Members approved a motion about the Implementation Phase of the Plenary Council. The steps outlined include the establishment of terms of review for implementation by the Bishops Commission for the Plenary Council, the publication of interim reports in 2023 and 2025, and the publication of a final review report in 2027. The details around Part 9: The Implementation Phase of the Fifth Plenary Council will become clearer in coming months. I expect the Archdiocese of Brisbane will hold a Synod sometime between now and 2023 (watch this space).
To read through the approved motions. It is also worthwhile reflecting on the enormous contribution our Archdiocese has made throughout the four-and-a-half-year Plenary process please click here: {https://plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/motions-and-voting/?mc_cid=31cf53f9b0&mc_eid=d9393d8b98} . Our Archdiocese made the most individual submissions nationally of any diocese during the ‘Listening & Dialogue’ phase. These submissions, guided by the Holy Spirit, helped shape all that was voted on last week in Sydney. Thank you for your contributions.
And finally, in reflecting on the process used to develop the agenda and guide the entire Plenary Council, I’d encourage you to read the Concluding Statement from the Plenary Members:
For other news from Last Week’s session please visit - Plenary Council’s news page and on the Plenary Council Facebook page.
WARNING - A scam has been doing the rounds via email and sms. A person pretending to be Fr Peter or another priest of the archdiocese contacts a parishioner and asks for confidential help. If the person responds, they are asked to buy gift cards of a high value and send them on. Please note that the email and sms are fake and we would never request personal help for money or gift cards. Only official church appeals - undertaken through the church and announced at the church are to be trusted. Please do not respond to requests like this, and do not click any attachments or links. A close look at the email also shows that these messages are fake.
FUNERAL INVITATION FOR THE LATE MRS ELMA MORO
Parishioners and friends are invited to the Funeral Prayer service of the late Mrs Elma Moro, to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Clear Island Waters on Wednesday the 20th July 2022. At 11 am.
LITURGY NEWS - WINTER EDITION IS AVAILABLE FOR FREE NOW (ONLINE ONLY)
OUT NOW! Please find attached the Winter 2022 edition of Liturgy News. News and background articles are invaluable for parishes and schools. Priests, religion teachers, pastoral associates, liturgy committees… This magazine is for you! Please click here or click the image above for an online (downloadable) copy
Star of the Sea - Catholic Primary School - Merrimac -
Initially Prep to Year 3, with an extra year level being added each year until 2026. The school is master-planned to accommodate approximately 550 students. - Website: Star Of The Sea Merrimac and Facebook Page: Star of the Sea
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/
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
***PLEASE NOTE: ITALIAN MASS WITHIN PARISH SUSPENDED UNTIL OCTOBER
The celebration of the Italian Sunday Mass at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters WILL BE SUSPENDED FOR THREE MONTHS (JULY, AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER 2022) and will resume regularly as from Sunday 2nd October 2022.
Fr Angelo Cagna, the present Chaplain will be on sabbatical leave for six months (30 June 2022 - 31 December 2022). Fr Savino Bernardi, a Scalabrinian priest from Sydney, will supply the Italian Sunday Mass for the months of October, November and December 2022. For any other matters regarding the Italian Chaplaincy and/or Community, Giovanna Santomauro (Mob 0418 198 437) will be the liaison officer.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Jesus desires that we, like his friend Mary, would spend time in his presence. Take time regularly to be with Jesus and listen to his living word. (Luke 10:38-42). To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -
“…I am a minister in accordance with God’s stewardship given to me to bring to completion for you the word of God.” (Colossians 1:25). We are all called to evangelise – to convert individuals and society by the divine power of the Gospel. Our faith is more attractive to others by our actions than by our words alone. We may not be called to evangelise like St. Paul, but we should look for opportunities to share our faith through our actions and words, especially with those closest to us, like our family, friends and neighbours. Pray for the courage to joyfully express your faith the next time the opportunity arises. 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: Kathy Stevens, Mutya Nario Lopez, Stephen Cokim, Nellie Bellinger, Leslie Clarke, Raymundo C. Isaga, Kristy Peat, Leon Mostert, Anna Janiek, Andrew McPherson, Louise Holmes, Ray Burton, Don Williamson, Michael & Denise Tracey, Betty O’Connell, Margaret Cook, Fred Grioli, Lynn Nunan, Elaine Casonati, Michael Murtagh, Kim Parkes, Cecily Cellinan, Kevin Brennan, Margaret Cusack, Fabiola Menzs, Peter O’Brien, Rachel Raines, Mary Jackson, Nenette Csundo, Vince Shanahan, Ilene Simpkins, Claire Perera, Jayani Antony, Panfilo Bantugan, Sandii Wall, Kath Kiely, Joanne Mooney, Therese Mullins, Michael Connell, Zeb Deane, Miriam Hill, Amando A. Mirasol Jr., Gus Reeves, John & Molly Robinson, Laila Mikael, Jean Di Benedetto, James Goodwin, Scott Mitchell, Malcolm Ward, John O’Brien, Ludwig Mueller, Kent Vince, Colleen Grehan, Carmelita Dulu, Bobby Courtney, Lisa Mangan, Robyn Skein, Kye Oh, Olga Hamshari, Margaret Haerse, Milka Barac, Rodney & Norma McLennan, Lois & Doug Wood, Duncan Dawson, William Franklin, Maria Mihalic, Annie Scicluna, Margaret Thompson, Patricia Moor, Helen Bohringer, Savannah Ayoub, Maeve Lombard, Arthur Haddad, Joanne Parkes, Michelle MacDonald, Mary Kerr. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.
RECENTLY DECEASED: Barry James Edmonds, Anne Logan, Noel Watson, Alice Morrasayan, John Tobin, Daphne Andreas, Kwang Hua Lim, John Gerard Robinson Jnr (aged 69yrs), Joseph Kania, Joe Hilton, John Massingham, Paula Stafford, Luke Tansey, John Vincent Davis, Muriel Lynch, Maryanne Vanek, Agata (Tina) Zammit, Frances Collins, Therese Hunt, Bill Gilmore, Adam Alfred McGuffie, Shirley Ellen Pettiona, Margaret Mary Milton, Mary Ashton.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Joseph Shen (Jiasheng Shen), William Sammut, Victor O'Reilly, Margaret Ann (Ann) Mason, Terrence Gavin (Terry) Faloon, Patrick Sexton, Eftim Orloff, Fr Cyril Shand, Joseph Patrick Condon, Ermis Moro, Rita Steptoe, Margaret Mary Gordon, Emilia Smarzewska, Archbishop Frank Rush, Ruby Agnes Johnson, Bryan Suter, Corbett Benedict (Corby) McKay, Stefan Iosif Szemes. And Also: Dave Binder, Jill Masters, Grace Cooper (UK), Lia Maher, Bill Wall, Elaine Hannah Cotter, Peter Butler, Elizabeth Anne Fredricks, Smith Rita Mary, Irene Cappellazzo, Alan Clark Krushka, Christopher Cassels, Sharon Patricia Pak, Tom And Lucy Yule, Natalie Kan, Leo Francis Nugent, Fay Theresa Kassulke, John Ennis Ashby, Patrick (Pat) Boyle, Salvatore Di Pietro, Noel Smith, Mal Condon, Shirley Roche, Gemma Carmel Bingham.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH: You're welcome
The guest room is a modern convenience. It's often a place for sheltering out-of-town relatives amid the exercise equipment and stored-away off-season decorations. In the world of the Bible, hospitality meant more—extending welcome was a religious act, most frequently offered to strangers passing through town. Jesus urges his followers to practise radical hospitality to the poor, sick, prisoners, strangers, and socially marginalised: to all who are, like us, just passing through this life. How does your parish practice visible hospitality? How do you personally make the stranger and outsider feel welcome?
"Let me bring you a little food, so that you may refresh yourselves." (Genesis 18:1-10a).
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES ARE READY
The Planned Giving Envelopes are now available at the Sacred Heart Church, Stella Maris Church and St Vincent’s Church before and after the scheduled Masses.
We only have envelopes for those who requested them, or those who previously requested them. People who direct debit will not have envelopes.
If you would like a receipt, for your donations received through Direct Debit or envelopes, please contact the Parish Office to arrange.
The Parish thanks everyone for their generosity over the past twelve months.
MASK WEARING
People should not feel the need to explain and apologise for continuing to wear masks and we ask that people respect their choices and needs. The risk of Flu and of Covid is still present, and there are quite a few vulnerable people in our community, so using hand sanitiser and reasonable social distancing where possible is still highly prudent.
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.
Families wishing to be involved in our Surfers Paradise Parish Sacramental Program should regularly check the weekly newsletter for information updates or they can email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
Sacrament of CONFIRMATION 2022
We will soon begin our Surfers Paradise Parish, Preparation for Confirmation with 140 children - Quite a record number of young people whom we are excited to meet and re-welcome into our family of faith.
Online enrolments will be closing soon. However Baptised children who are in Year 3 or greater are still welcome 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.
During this week, all families that had completed an online application for their child should have received an email reminding them of the information that follows here: Compulsory Parent Meeting 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 these complete documents are to be 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.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION 2022
The last group of our parish children for First Holy Communion 2022 will celebrate on August 13 at the 5 pm Vigil Mass at Sacred Heart Church. They will complete our 2022 First Communion celebrations.
Fr Peter, Fr Paul and everyone at Surfers Paradise Parish look forward to celebrating the second, third, fourth and many subsequent Holy Communions with these children who have brought so many blessings to our parish family.
Dates for the 2023 First Communion Preparation and Celebration will be included in the newsletter later this year.
Sacrament of PENANCE - RECONCILIATION
If you missed the March opportunity for your child to celebrate their First Reconciliation, we would like to offer you another opportunity this year. The First Rite of Reconciliation will be celebrated on Thursday, October 20, 2022, at 5:30 pm in Sacred Heart Church.
Reconciliation is a Sacrament of Healing. The Children’s Sacramental Program follows the Sacraments of Initiation. That is, Reconciliation, also known as Penance; follows Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.
The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team has prepared a program similar in style to the Confirmation and First Communion At Home Preparation Programs. If your child was previously enrolled in the Surfers Paradise Parish Sacramental Program and then was either Confirmed or made their First Communion in Surfers Paradise, there is no requirement for you to complete a new online enrolment form. Children making their First Communion in June 2022 will also be eligible to participate in this Preparation for Reconciliation.
If you are unsure if your child will be included in the group, please email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
Both the first reading and the gospel this weekend speak of the true meaning of hospitality and graciousness; and for a Christian, these are always a symbol of openness and a welcoming attitude. an open heart. an open ear. . An open mind to God and God's word. . An openness to God's different ways.
In the first reading. . Abraham and Sarah give hospitality to the three mysterious visitors. . This is what is expected in the culture of the time of all people towards travellers. . But there is something different here. . Somehow, Abraham KNOWS that these three visitors are not just any old travellers, but are actually Angels. representing the presence of God. . I love this scene from the bible. if anyone was to make a movie of this scene from the Bible. . I reckon the three strangers would say very little. but would just nod.. and cooperate and graciously accept the hospitality of Abraham. . It would be a delightful and very mysterious scene. I would love to see it acted out. (actually, the 1966 movie entitled The BIBLE, features this scene and one reviewer describes this scene of the three angels visiting Abraham as one of the best scenes in the movie. and bemoaning that more scenes like it are not featured). probably because it's such a key incident.
The hospitality of Abraham, which is nothing less than was expected of all hosts of his time, nevertheless is a symbol and example of the graciousness, openness, and compassion that is expected of all who follow God. and is open to all people in this way, one's heart is shown to be open to God himself. .
This lesson is consolidated in the Gospel. . It's also a beautiful passage, but it is also a very misunderstood passage.. It can be quite confusing. . It may be helpful to keep in mind that Jesus is very good friends with both Mary and Martha. He is not rebuking Martha. . But he is gently teaching her that, although he deeply appreciates and values her hospitality and welcome.. and the meal she is rushing to prepare. In the end, these important actions are a foretaste and a symbol of the true hospitality and welcome that comes from sitting at the feet of the Lord and listening to him. learning from him. becoming a disciple of Christ and being utterly open and responsive to God's word and God's teachings. . And this is what Mary is doing; and it is not to be taken from her.
Unlike many oft-heard interpretations of this gospel. Jesus is not preferring action to contemplation. and is not rejecting Martha's ways and accepting only Mary's ways. . Jesus is not "contrasting a strictly contemplative life with the active life. Both are necessary. We venerate Martha as a saint as well as Mary. The one thing necessary is to listen to Jesus and to ponder his words deeply. Without his values and his Spirit and good news, our activity could be misguided and even harmful. We need, (and our homes need, and our world needs) the saving message, values, and Spirit of Jesus. We need to listen and be open to this first and foremost.**
Both action and contemplation are needed in the life of a Christian. . But both need to be firmly based on openness and responsiveness to Jesus' teachings and values and message. .
As we have said already. .Action without contemplation could be fruitless and quite misguided . .. A waste of effort. . and contemplation without actions could be just self-indulgence. Both are needed in their own order. with first priority given to sitting at Christ's feet and listening to him and learning from him.
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; SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ.; *(CARMELPRINT 2004)
[Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1852640065 - UKRAINE, ODESSA REGION, VILLAGE PETRODOLINSKOE – JULY, 13, 2013: Orthodox painting Jesus Christ at Martha and Mary. Photo Contributor - hramikona]
“We therefore grossly deceive ourselves in not allotting more time to the study of divine truths. It is not enough to barely believe them, and let our thoughts now and then glance upon them: that knowledge which shows us heaven, will not bring us to the possession of it and will deserve punishment, not rewards if it remains slight, weak, and superficial. By serious and frequent meditation it must be concocted, digested, and turned into the nourishment of our affections before it can be powerful and operative enough to change them, and produce the necessary fruit in our lives. For this all the saints affected solitude and retreats from the noise and hurry of the world, as much as their circumstances allowed them.” – St. Apollinaris
“The Holy Spirit sweetens the yoke of the divine law and lightens its weight, so that we may observe God’s commandments with the greatest of ease and even with pleasure.” (St Lawrence of Brindisi OFM Cap).
“God is love and all His operations proceed from LOVE…” [St Lawrence of Brindisi OFM Cap (1559-1619)].
“Mary Magdalene turned and said to Jesus in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher).” (John 20:16).
“So Mary Magdalene ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.’” (John 20:2)
Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord.” (John 20:18).
Make your prayer simple, as simple as you can. Reason little, love much, and you will pray well.” (Willie Doyle).
“Contemplation is knowledge by love.” (Bede Griffiths, OSB).
Cultivate contemplation and simplicity
Mount Carmel gets mentioned throughout the Old Testament, as a settlement and a mountain, both named for lush vegetation that grew there. The former was the homeland of King David’s wife, Abigail. The latter was the holy mountain, dotted with caves, where Elijah confronted the false prophets of Baal. These caves also attracted early hermits who would go on to found the Carmelite religious order. Carmelite spirituality—in particular, contemplation and a simple lifestyle—was the touchstone of many influential Catholic saints, including John of the Cross, Teresa of Ávila, and Thérèse of Lisieux. How might your own spiritual life benefit from an increase in contemplation or simplicity?
Bounce back. Years back, Timex had a popular slogan claiming that their watches “could take a licking and keep on ticking.” No disrespect intended, but that truly could be an epitaph for the courageous Saint Apollinaris, who suffered endless beatings during the Roman persecutions of the early church yet refused to back down or abandon his ministry or his flock. Though his steadfastness eventually led to martyrdom, he lives on in the church’s collective memory and admiration. Next time life knocks you down, recall Apollinaris and get back into the ring!
MEMORIAL OF APOLLINARIS, BISHOP, MARTYR.
Overachiever for God
We’re approaching the dog days of summer, but if you’re tempted to retreat from work, Saint Lawrence of Brindisi might inspire you otherwise. This overachieving saint was a brilliant linguist and preacher who held positions of leadership in his religious order, the Capuchin Franciscans. He founded multiple friaries, defended against heresies, and performed diplomatic missions. He died of apparent heat exhaustion following a diplomatic mission—working tirelessly until the end. Saint Lawrence poured his all into upholding the faith. Take a moment to consider how you, too, might uplift the faith.
MEMORIAL OF LAWRENCE OF BRINDISI, CAPUCHIN PRIEST, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH
It’s a paradox
Experiencing God is awesome and incomprehensible—what Catholic theologian Karl Rahner described as “Holy Mystery” and “Infinite Horizon.” And yet, this very same God draws close to us, becoming fully human to dwell with us. The experiences of Mary Magdalene with Jesus clearly demonstrate this. Having just saved the world, Jesus, in his first post-Resurrection appearance, comes not in a blaze of glory, but in the tender encounter with Mary and the very intimate calling of her name. Allow yourself to rest in this paradox, knowing that ours is not to figure out the mystery but to be embraced by it!
FEAST OF MARY MAGDALENE, DISCIPLE OF THE LORD
John 20:1-2, 11-18 (603). “Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to him in Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni,’ which means Teacher.”
(source: Take five for Faith; and Wikipedia and https://anastpaul.com/)
APPEAL FOR THE PEOPLE OF UKRAINE - Caritas International (Catholic)
Ukraine Crisis
Over 2.6 million people have fled their homes in Ukraine, and there have been at least 1,581 civilian casualties.
You can help the Caritas Ukraine staff on the ground to provide families with emergency food, water, shelter and hygiene support.
POPE FRANCIS: Messengers of Hope
The Pope tells young people to be messengers of hope (By Deborah Castellano Lubov, via Vatican News).
Pope Francis encourages young people participating in the first Global Youth Tourism Meeting - underway at the time in the town of Sorrento on Italy's Amalfi Coast - "to be messengers of hope and rebirth for the future."
Pope Francis is encouraging young people to be messengers of hope and rebirth for the future, in a video message to those participating in the Global Youth Tourism Summit taking place in Sorrento, Italy, from 27 June to 3 July 2022.
The Global Youth Tourism Summit is a new platform, developed by the UN World Tourism Organisation, “to enhance youth empowerment and engagement in the tourism sector.”
The Summit consists of a series of international events, workshops, and education initiatives that, according to the website, "will give children and youth a unique platform to share and discuss innovative ideas, visions and their proposals for the future of sustainable tourism within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development."
Remembering those carving out prayer time
The Holy Father began by expressing his joy to greet the young people taking part in the first such Summit.
For those who are still students, he recognized that tourism coincides with the school summer break, and highlighted that experiences they will have during this time "will remain in your memories."
“In addition to recreation and rest, I know that some of you use this time to volunteer to help in solidarity initiatives; others devote themselves to small jobs to give a hand to their families or to support themselves in their studies; still others carve out days of silence and prayer to be with God and receive light on their path.”
Acting responsibly
The Pope stressed the importance of conducting themselves maturely.
“I encourage you to use the time you have at your disposal well and responsibly. This is how you grow and prepare yourself to take on more demanding tasks.”
Before giving his Blessing, Pope Francis concluded by saying, “Dear young people, I wish you to be messengers of hope and rebirth for the future.”
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 532243315 - pope Francis with young people. Photo Contributor - Marcin Kadziolka
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS
Still a few copies available of the Catholic Leader at the Religious Goods Shops, only $4.
New stock has arrived this week too.
FUNERAL INVITATION FOR THE LATE MRS ELMA MORO
Parishioners and friends are invited to the Funeral Prayer service of the late Mrs Elma Moro, to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Clear Island Waters on Wednesday the 20th July 2022. At 11 am.
ST JOHN’S CRISIS CENTRE (NEXT TO ST VINCENT’S CHURCH AT SURFERS PARADISE 40 years of providing support to those in need
At St. John’s we help families in crisis. This includes individuals, families and children escaping domestic violence, the homeless, people with mental health issues, and those who have become financially and emotionally disadvantaged. We provide a range of support services, including serving over 100 meals per day. We also provide referrals and emergency relief to those in desperate need.
Your support allows us to keep doing great work in the community. If you would like to donate money, click here to use our ‘bpoint.’ or direct transfer to St John’s Crisis Centre BSB 034-216 Account number 7511642 Donations can be made at St. John’s Crisis Centre, located at 36 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia. Monday to Friday between 9 am and 12 pm.
For larger donations, we can also organise to collect items. In addition to funds, the centre also needs - Non-perishable food and clothing in good clean condition. Toiletries and general home items such as toilet paper, washing powder, nappies, and baby wipes. Small household items such as saucepans, mugs, kitchen utensils, blankets, towels, and linen.
Donations can also be left at St Vincent’s Church on Sunday. Thank you for your support.
COMMUNION TO RESIDENTS AT NURSING HOMES. HELP IS STILL NEEDED!
We have had to reduce our visits with Holy Communion to the residents at Nursing Homes, and urgently require more people to assist with this service. Can you spare 3 hours per month for this important Ministry?
Listed below are Nursing homes with their Day and time of visitation.
Lady Small Haven, Benowa. Tuesdays 9.30 am to 11.00 am
Merrimac Park Private Care, Merrimac. Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm
Bupa Nursing Home, Merrimac. Thursdays 9.30 am to 11.00 am
Tricare, Mermaid Beach Nursing Home, Mermaid Beach Fridays 10.15 am to 12.00noon
Tricare, Cypress Gardens Nursing Home, Clear Island Waters. Sundays after 9.00 am Mass Sacred Heart to 12.00 noon
For further information ring the Parish Office, or Maxine Sela on 0421051193.
ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN (Date Claimer) - OFFICIAL COLLECTION
SCHEDULED FOR 20 - 21 August 2022 *Please click here to give now* *8*
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP
In the Morris prayer room Tuesdays from 10 am to 12 noon. The Meditation Group would very much like to welcome new members. All enquiries please phone Pam Egtberts 0428090703
ART AND CRAFT GROUP - Every Wednesday in the PHC from 9 am until 12noon.
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.
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady’s Statue in the Parish
Details of the statue of Our Lady which is going around the Parish. If you would like to have her in your home and say the Rosary: please contact Maxine or Pat on 0412 519 404
The Roster for the next four weeks:
18/7/2022 Glarry & Rudi Camara Southport
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB- (20 Years Young)-
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 is necessary. All are welcome.
For more information and to enrol, Please phone: Cheryl 5538 8821 or Mob 0417 772 701
Worldwide Marriage Encounter:
A weekend experience for married couples, priests and religious, away from the distractions of everyday living. Take time out of your busy schedule, to invest in your most precious asset and revitalise your Sacrament. This is a unique opportunity to reconnect, rekindle and refresh your relationship. It gives you the opportunity to grow in your relationship with your spouse or your community.
Our COVID-SAFE live-in weekends will be held from Friday evening 14 October to Sunday afternoon 16 October (including Mass) at Santa Teresa, Ormiston. For bookings/details contact Maria and David Murphy: 0481 307 821 qldbookings@wwme.org.au Watch Archbishop Mark Coleridge’s support video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4o_Wp6qGB44
Information website: www.wwme.org.au
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.
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.
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.
ADULT FAITH - Space (and Silence) - The Final Frontier!
Within Eucharist, space and time for silent prayer are specifically planned and expected. In this modern age, not everyone is comfortable with silence. But it is a necessary blessing in a busy and noisy world. It is something that gets more familiar with the practice. If people feel uncomfortable with extended pauses for silence within the Mass, I suspect this is because they are not actually doing what they should be doing at that time, that is, PRAYING silently to God; adding our silent prayers to the prayers of the whole assembly gathered!
If a person is silently and fervently praying during these pauses for silent prayer, there is no time to think about “what's happening? Why is nothing being done or said?” In fact, if we utilise these oases of silent prayer properly, one will likely think to oneself, “drat, I hardly had enough time to finish my silent intentions.”
Here is a little parable that may help to highlight how Eucharist is like a Holy Meal with several wonderful courses served, which are truly nourishing to the soul and must be savoured and appreciated, each in their own time.
Imagine being invited to dinner. As soon as you arrive, the hosts say "Hello, let’s eat." You are then immediately led to the table, pushed into your seat and the entrée is served. The moment the last bite is taken, your entrée is ripped out from under your hand, and the main meal is hurriedly served. Before you can finish the main dish, the dessert is brought out and a swift exchange of plates occurs. As soon as you finish dessert, coffee and tea are served and then you are led towards the door and the hosts say, "Thanks for coming, hope you enjoyed the meal!” The door slams shut! This just would not happen, surely!
If this did happen to you, it would be disorienting, to say the least. You would probably get indigestion, but surely you would also feel dizzy, rushed and frazzled. You would not have had the time and space to enjoy the food, let alone the company, and how could you have savoured the meal as an important human experience. No polite host would do this to their guest.
Unfortunately, haven’t we all been in parishes where this is exactly what the Mass is like. As soon as the opening prayer ends, the reader has shot up to the lectern and has sped through the first reading. The first reader has barely uttered the last word of the reading when the Psalm begins, and as the last note of the psalm is still sounding, the second reading feels as if it is already half-finished. The Alleluia Verse is being spoken (which is a bit like speaking the words to the song "Happy Birthday"). Next, the gospel is over and we sit exhausted. All these wonderful individual “meals” - sources of nourishment - have barely been savoured, in the race to the finish. It is as if we were speeding through something we don't understand or like.
Similarly, when a priest rapidly speaks through the prayers or omits pauses for silent prayer, where indicated by the missal, (and people would be surprised that these pauses are indeed indicated in the instruction to the Missal for the celebration of the Mass), it does rightly feel “off-balance.” One cannot SEE silence! However, silence is just as important a part of the Mass as the parts one can hear or see. And silence can be quite notable by its omission.
In training for the priesthood, we experienced Liturgy in the Seminary Chapel as well as having many opportunities to visit different churches throughout the archdiocese. When I first began this training, I was struck by the pauses for silent prayer and reflection between the prayers and the readings. I had never really noticed this experience in a parish up to this point, and although it seemed different and new to me, and initially a bit foreign to me, I quickly grew to like it. In fact, I came to value it so much that if I went somewhere that did not have these pauses, it felt quite rushed and jarring. This space is where we centre ourselves and allow the word of God to enter our hearts and minds in a profound and peaceful way. It also gives us time for the words and prayers to sink deeply into our minds and hearts.
This pattern became so natural that when I went to a parish where there were no gaps between readings it would feel breathless, jarring and rushed.
The great liturgical principle in all of this is that silence is as much a part of the Mass as any other element. As one commentator says, "never omit silence!" And here, I am speaking not so much of silence before or after Mass but the times of silent prayer that are actually named and intended for different parts of the celebration of Mass. These times and places are listed below.
Within the Mass, there are specific times when silent prayer by the assembly is built into the structure of the Eucharist.
When the Priest says the words of introduction to the penitential rite, such as “Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.” (the assembly then pauses in silent prayer for ten to twenty seconds to call to mind any sins). Then the penitential rite is conducted.
At the start of the Collect (once called the “Opening Prayer”), the priest says “Let us Pray.” He is then meant to pause for 8 or so seconds, or more, of silence in order for all gathered here to offer a silent prayer to God. Only then does the priest pray “The Collect.”
8 or so seconds of silence prior to the first reading. (This usually coincides with the time the first reader takes to walk up to the Ambo, but the silence is important in its own right and ought to be observed even if the reader were already at the Ambo).
8 or so seconds of silence after the first reading and before the psalm.
8 or so seconds silence after psalm and before second reading
8 or so seconds silence before the gospel.
A period of silent prayer is observed after the homily and before the Creed.
Several seconds pause for silence after each of the short intentions are announced for the Prayer of the Faithful in the General Intercessions. After these pauses of several seconds, the leader ends each intention with “we pray to the Lord” or “Lord hear us” etc.
Within the Eucharistic prayer, depending on which one is used at the time, there are different times when a pause for silent prayer is envisaged, for example “for the dead, especially (those for whom we now pray),…..”
Once the communion hymn is concluded, or after any post-communion hymn, a fitting pause for some time of silent prayer and reflection.
The General Instruction on the Roman Missal (GIRM) says: Paragraph 127. (In the Opening Prayer of the Mass): The priest then invites the people to pray, saying, with hands joined, “Let us pray.” All pray silently with the priest for a brief time. Then the priest, with hands extended, says the collect, at the end of which the people make the acclamation, Amen.
Paragraph 56. The Liturgy of the Word is to be celebrated in such a way as to promote meditation, and so any sort of haste that hinders recollection must clearly be avoided. During the Liturgy of the Word, it is also appropriate to include brief periods of silence, accommodated to the gathered assembly, in which, at the prompting of the Holy Spirit, the word of God may be grasped by the heart and a response through prayer may be prepared. It may be appropriate to observe such periods of silence, for example, before the Liturgy of the Word itself begins, after the first and second reading, and lastly at the conclusion of the homily.
Paragraph 164. (After communion), the priest may return to the chair. A sacred silence may now be observed for some period of time, or a Psalm or another canticle of praise or a hymn may be sung (cf. no. 88).
Paragraph 165. Then, standing at the chair or at the altar and facing the people, the priest, with hands joined, says, “Let us pray;” then, with hands extended, he recites the prayer after Communion. A brief period of silence may precede the prayer, unless this has been already observed immediately after Communion. At the end of the prayer, the people say the acclamation, Amen.
SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ - An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.
I. POLLUTION AND CLIMATE CHANGE
Pollution, waste and the throwaway culture
20. Some forms of pollution are part of people’s daily experience. Exposure to atmospheric pollutants produces a broad spectrum of health hazards, especially for the poor, and causes millions of premature deaths. People take sick, for example, from breathing high levels of smoke from fuels used in cooking or heating. There is also pollution that affects everyone, caused by transport, industrial fumes, substances that contribute to the acidification of soil and water, fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and agro-toxins in general. Technology, which, linked to business interests, is presented as the only way of solving these problems, in fact, proves incapable of seeing the mysterious network of relations between things and so sometimes solves one problem only to create others.
21. Account must also be taken for the pollution produced by residue, including dangerous waste present in different areas. Each year hundreds of millions of tons of waste are generated, much of it non-biodegradable, highly toxic and radioactive, from homes and businesses, from construction and demolition sites, from clinical, electronic and industrial sources. The earth, our home, is beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth. In many parts of the planet, the elderly lament that once beautiful landscapes are now covered with rubbish. Industrial waste and chemical products utilized in cities and agricultural areas can lead to bioaccumulation in the organisms of the local population, even when levels of toxins in those places are low. Frequently no measures are taken until after people’s health has been irreversibly affected.
22. These problems are closely linked to a throwaway culture which affects the excluded just as it quickly reduces things to rubbish. To cite one example, most of the paper we produce is thrown away and not recycled. It is hard for us to accept that the way natural ecosystems work is exemplary: plants synthesize nutrients that feed herbivores; these, in turn, become food for carnivores, which produce significant quantities of organic waste which give rise to new generations of plants. But our industrial system, at the end of its cycle of production and consumption, has not developed the capacity to absorb and reuse waste and by-products. We have not yet managed to adopt a circular model of production capable of preserving resources for present and future generations, while limiting as much as possible the use of non-renewable resources, moderating their consumption, maximizing their efficient use, reusing and recycling them. A serious consideration of this issue would be one way of counteracting the throwaway culture which affects the entire planet, but it must be said that only limited progress has been made in this regard.
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.
(see further: The Kombumerri People and https://kombumerritogetherproject.com/digital-resources/yugambeh-language/)
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety
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