Friday 19 August 2022

SPCP Newsletter: Sunday, August 21, 2022 - Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year C

 PDF version of this parish newsletter here:

Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish E-Newsletter

This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians of this region. (see here)

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -  https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding

Parish Office (new no.): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 12 pm Mon-Fri) 

Email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au | Website: www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au 

Emergencies: Priest contactable via office phone (after hours follow the menu prompts)

50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland, 4226

 

Sunday, August 21, 2022.

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year C

 

Readings for Sunday, August 21, 2022 - Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year C

FIRST READING: Isa 66:18-21

Ps 117:1, 2. “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.”

SECOND READING: Heb 12:5-7, 11-13

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 13:22-30). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the way, the truth and the Life, says the Lord. No one comes to the Father except through me.

GOSPEL: Luke 13:22-30

 

“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door” (Luke 13:24)

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 1137974084. Door Set in Brick Stone Medieval European Building Wall. Photo Contributor: lalcreative

 

We congratulate the Coleman, Gorgeous, families whose children CCCCCC will be baptised in our Parish this week.  Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey​.

 

ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN - THIS WEEKEND   

20 - 21 August 2022 *Please click here to give now*

Support future priests in their formation. Your support gives future priests the support they need to answer God’s call and stay the course. With your gift, you ensure the future of our faith.

The Annual Catholic Campaign is our Archdiocese of Brisbane's official appeal to support its central mission activities. 20 - 21 August 2022 *Please click here to give now* 

Our parish is delighted to support the Annual Catholic Campaign this weekend. It is the one time a year that all of the parishes in the Archdiocese come together to help vital works of our church and the local community.  Funds raised will support ministries that directly impact this parish.  The Campaign supports training future priests, caring for our elderly and retired priests, helping local families in dire need access to Catholic education, and caring for those physically and emotionally suffering in our community.  

Please take a Campaign brochure and giving envelope. You can either pop it in the mail or return it next week. Of course, if you have a pen in your bag, feel free to fill it in today and place it in the collection. Thank you, and God bless.

ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN (Date Claimer) - OFFICIAL ARCHDIOCESAN COLLECTION. 20 - 21 August 2022 *Please click here to give now*

catholicfoundation.org.au/catholic-campaign/

 

PASTOR’S POST. 

How Did We Ever Survive?

In the real estate section of last weekend’s Australian newspaper, a spectacular modern-looking house boasted having six bedrooms and eight, yes eight, bathrooms, which I presume also means eight toilets. There were a number of other attractive features like the media room, a dedicated breakfast room, a four oven kitchen, one of which was only for streaming while another was for warming plates. There was a children’s breakout space and adult’s relaxation lounge, a butler's pantry, ducted air conditioning throughout and a reading room. Of course, the usual in-ground pool and five car garage completed the description of what was rightly fully called “a contemporary mansion”.

 

Whether it's experience or just living within my means, my first thoughts were how large a family gets to live in a house like this, then a little later on, who would have to clean all those bathrooms. Clearly, this house is not the biggest or the best on the market, as we see every week some more extravagant residence, as though there is some realtor’s competition to see who can out do the next door neighbours, in style, expanse and expense.

 

It put me in mind of my own childhood home that certainly had eight beds, spread over three bedrooms, one containing three beds, which we called “the sleep-out”. Of course, as the favoured child and only son, I got my own room, which I always had to surrender when guests came to stay. Those guests, who seemed to visit all too frequently, also had to share the one, count it, one shower, sink and toilet. We had no roster or prior reservation system, but just the first one there gets it. 

Our media room was called the lounge room, the rumpus room and the homework room. Air conditioning was window open or open fire lit. The children’s breakout space was the back lawn with an inflatable wading pool, while my parents clearly never needed a relaxation lounge since we were perfectly behaved children. Why did they need to relax? The breakfast room doubled as the lunch and dining room as well. The one television screen had three channels which started broadcasting at 4pm each day and was possibly 20 inches wide. 

On our birthday we were allowed to choose the programme that the rest of the family were forced to watch. Such an honour. Such power. We had one telephone for which we had to ask permission to use and our number had only three digits. We had one camera brought out on special occasions and Dad had a very substantial radio that was only ever used for the Saturday race results, as I recall. That was pretty much the extent of our technical equipment. We had a slow combustion stove with a cast iron kettle permanently on the oil that Mum assured everyone maintained a more consistent temperature than the electric ones.

 

Now before you think I am going to pretend I had a deprived childhood or that we were a poor struggling family, I have to admit that by the living standards of the time we were considered ”comfortable”. We never wanted for the essentials or pleasure, we didn’t feel we were crowded.  It was simply that we didn’t know all the family home comforts of today were even invented.  I loved our house and was so proud to show my friends how we lived. It was just another time with other expectations. Being sent to your room was actually a punishment then, because there was nothing there to distract you and the isolation from what might have been happening outside was the purpose of the lesson. The dinner table seated eight and I cannot recall a weekday meal when we were not expected to be all seated around it. Dinner in front of the telly was sometimes allowed on Fridays, the meal was fish fingers or curried eggs (remember Fridays in Catholic households). Where was the sacrifice in that?

 

Of course, now that we know what is available even in the most modest of dwellings these days, I do think that we are always looking for distractions that can fill every waking moment. Lavish is the new comfortable, excess is the new adequate and space is seen as a way to distance ourselves from others rather than connecting. It’s an absolute miracle we ever survived to know what we missed out on.

Fr Peter Dillon PP

 

Bold & the Beautiful Friendship Group 

Lunch at twelve noon, Thursday 25th August at Surfers Paradise Golf Club. Everybody Welcome. Leona Kelly 56308206

 

BRISBANE SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS

Are you seeking some spiritual direction or spiritual accompaniment? There is a list of directors on offer in the Archdiocese and these can be accessed easily via the web-site.  

https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/spiritual-direction/

 

MARIAN VALLEY

Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of the Birthday of the Virgin Mary on 03.09.2022 and on13.09.2022 the feast of our Lady Of Fatima.. The bus will be picking up  at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters.. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return for each person.. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with  Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573,. All are welcome.

 

A MESSAGE FROM THE “CATHOLIC GUY”

A new Daily Devotional series called, 'Knowing Jesus,' which is aimed at helping Catholic people in their prayer and devotional life. Jesus is arguably the most well-known person that ever lived. This new series called 'Knowing Jesus,' based on the holy Scriptures and the wisdom of the Church, will be a new and different perspective on the life of Christ and His work - His teaching, His miracles, His death, and resurrection - and ultimately, who He was and why He came.  People will receive a free short 5-10 minute video directly into their inbox daily. Join in what we pray will be a powerful, life-changing series.

For more information, please contact me at Bruce@BruceDownes.org -  Thank you for helping us share Christ.  God bless-  Bruce Downes, The Catholic Guy. 

 

CATHOLIC LEADER -   MONTHLY NEWSPAPER  Copies may still be available.

Catholic Leader promotional points for August 2022

Three new priests ordained for Queensland province

The Plenary Council coverage highlighting the motions that will shape the future of the Church

Darwin Bishop Charles Gauci talks about the challenges faced by country parishes.

Theresa Grace shares her story of overcoming health challenges to achieve success in her studies.

Meet Linda Perrett, who will be Blessed Carlo Catholic College's foundational Principle

Columns from Archbishop Mark Coleridge and BCE executive director Dr Sally Towns

 

Africa Food Crisis

Drought and conflict in the Horn of Africa have left over 18 million people facing severe hunger. Four consecutive failed rainy seasons have devastated the crops of millions across the region.

  We must act now and Make Hunger History.

Your generous donation means our partners in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan and Eritrea can respond quickly to support vulnerable communities during this crisis.

Visit www.caritas.org.au/food-crisis or call 1800 024 413 toll-free to donate now.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 

 

 

 

 

Becoming Catholic!     A Journey of Faith 

Are you interested in becoming Catholic or learning about the Catholic faith?

Welcome! The Catholic Church’s mission is to offer people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to deepen their understanding and relationship with Jesus Christ. Becoming Catholic involves a journey of faith, accompanied by the support of a parish community.  This process is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, (RCIA).  During the RCIA process, you meet with others to share, reflect, pray and learn more about the Catholic faith.  Ceremonies or ‘rites’ at each stage signify the steps along the way. If you or someone you know would like to know more about becoming Catholic or starting to become Catholic as an adult, please contact -   

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish,  Clear Island Waters Q 4226. Phone: 5671 7388 surfers@bne.catholic.net.au 

 

HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY - 

HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES FIRST TO THE RESPOND TO NEEDS WITHIN THE HOSPITALS LISTED. 

To efficiently deal with the pastoral needs that arise around the Catholic Parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes within this Deanery have the practice of having the first call for emergencies going to the priests of the parish where the hospital is located.   Here is a helpful guide to the hospitals and their attendant priests. A nursing home call also follows this procedure, where the first priest to call is a priest from the parish within which the Nursing Home is located.  

Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish on 5576 6466

Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish 56717388

John Flynn Hospital -Coolangatta-Tugun Parish on 5598 2165

University & Gold Coast Private Hosp-Southport Parish 5510 2222

 

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 (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 October, November and December 2022. For any other matters regarding the Italian Chaplaincy and Community, Giovanna Santomauro (Mob 0418 198 437) will be the liaison officer.

 

Sacred Heart 

 

Saturday Night - 5 pm 

  • (Maronite Mass 6:30 pm, Saturday Night). 

*Note First Saturday of the month morning Mass 9 am (Next: 3rd September 2022)

Sunday - 9 am and 6 pm 

(Polish Mass 12:30 pm Sunday)

  • (Italian Mass in abeyance until Oct 2 Sunday  4 pm

Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 am 

St Vincent’s

 

Sunday - 8 am & 10 am 

  • (Hispanic Mass – 5.30 pm on 1st and 3rd Sundays)

Extra parking available only metres from St Vincent’s Church, King’s Car Park, entry via Beach Road

Stella Maris 

 

Saturday Night - 5 pm 

Sunday - 7 am 

Please note: The Archbishop has continued to exempt everyone from the obligation to attend Sunday mass during restrictions. We are still expected to maintain a social distance where possible and to receive Holy Communion in hand only, refrain from physical contact when offering the Sign of Peace, and sanitise when entering and exiting the premises.

You are no longer required to scan the Check-In Qld app when entering the church. 

 

Hispanic (Latino American) Mass: Fr. Syrilus Madin 

5:30 pm Mass 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month - St Vincent’s Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta 0406 705 349

Polish Mass: Fr Grzegorz Gaweł SChr (Bowen Hills 3252 2200)

12.30 pm Mass Sunday Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

Gold Coast Contact: George Syrek 0411 302 802 

Italian Mass: Suspended for three months- (August And September 2022), and will resume regularly from Sunday 2nd October 2022. For any other matters regarding the Italian Chaplaincy and/or Community, Giovanna Santomauro (Mob 0418 198 437) will be the liaison officer.

Maronite Mass: Fr Fadi Salame 0421 790 996

6.30 pm Saturday Vigil, Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

                                                                                                                                                       

A VOCATION VIEW:  

Will you help gather people to be a part of the Kingdom of God? Pray to be open if God calls you to serve as a priest, deacon, brother or sister. (“I will select some of them also to be priests…”- Isaiah 66:18-21).

To talk to someone about your vocation,  contact  Vocation Brisbane:  1300 133 544.  vocation@bne.catholic.net.au  and  www.vocationbrisbane.com     

 

STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - 

“For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”     Luke 13:30

Our cultural standards are different from God’s standards.  We often rank people by what they have, how powerful they are, or how successful they are.  Jesus reminds us that God will not judge us by the same earthly standards.  When God asks you, “What have you done with the gifts I have given you?”  How will you respond? The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.

 

 

IN OUR PRAYERS (Please keep in contact with us so we can keep these names up-to-date and let us know when to remove the name from the list).

 

FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: John Thomas, Tom Ross, Joanne Parkes, Joan Simmonds, Maria Manuela, Jack Barretto, Kath Kiely, Joanne Mooney, Doug Chester, Kathy Stevens, 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  & Patrick 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, 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, Michelle MacDonald, Mary Kerr. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects. 

 

RECENTLY DECEASED: Michael Armstrong, George Busuttil, Brian Edmund Jones, Bruce Smith, Sr Cecilia Anning rsj, Barbara Arthurson, William Walker, Remi Young, Ken Ledster, Alan King, Carmen Nicolas, Alvin Smith, Billy Edmonds, Ellen Moffitt, Anne Logan, Noel Watson, Alice Morrasayan, John Tobin, Daphne Andreas, Kwang Hua Lim, John Gerard Robinson Jnr, Joseph Kania, Joe Hilton, John Massingham.

 

ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Anne Porritt, Algie Scharenguivel, Shirley Ann Appleby, Maurice (Maurie) Turner, John Francis Paul, Noel John Ancrum, Kathleen (Kath) Gleeson, Joseph Kendall Farrell, Anthony Lenchuca, Ron Neilsen, Narda Hallam, Maureen Mary Moore, Joseph Donato, Ronald Neilsen, Mercedes Romanin, Maureen Moore, Danny Connelly, Lisa Maree Moore, Colin Vincent Jenkinson, Kichizo Matsumoto. And also: Sylvia Moray, George Neville Jensen, Fausto Mascia, Barry John Arderne, Marie Peters, Maria Di Certo, Bernie Crane, Justin McCarthy King, John Richard Gardner, Giuseppina Rovella, Carolyn Cameron, Frank Covino, Rose Mary Saldanha, Dorothy Heather Girle, Patricia Medway. 

 

TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH: Don't leave home without it

If you've ever been locked out even once because you forgot your key, chances are you now check your pockets before you step outside the door. Being on the wrong side of a barred door is tough due to a hapless error. It's brutal when a door remains shut in your face because of something you did or failed to do. We've all received the key to a warm welcome at the threshold of God's realm: love. Church-going and check-writing may be basic but not key. The door opens to those whose hearts are open. Wherever you go today, check your pockets for love. "I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!” Luke 13:22-30.   SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe

 

PARISH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Your support is needed to help our Parish continue valuable pastoral activities and to provide ongoing sustainability. To assist you to support the Parish, you can give via here.     

If you are able to continue to support us, we would be most grateful. For all those who have been making payments via credit card and those who have donated directly into the parish account, we thank you. The pay-wave or tap-and-go machines on the timber stands in our Churches are also a safe and handy way to donate to the Parish. God bless you for your support. If you would like confirmation of your donation or a receipt emailed please contact me at man.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au. To join planned giving, please contact the Parish Office: (07) 56717388 (9 am–12 pm Mon-Fri).

 

MASK WEARING 

The risk of Flu and of Covid is still present,  and there are quite a few vulnerable people in our community, so please consider using masks and hand sanitiser and reasonable social distancing where possible still highly prudent. 

 

 

CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM  

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 
                                   

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 CONFIRMATION 2022                                                                                                              

Several weeks ago, we began our preparation for Confirmation with 120 children. The children’s parents have attended an Introductory Meeting that focussed on the Sacraments of Initiation - Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion, as well as one of the Sacraments of Healing - Reconciliation (Penance). The meaning of the Sacrament and the essence of each of the childhood Catholic Sacraments was explained. Also, the Brisbane Archdiocese’s Sacramental Policy was presented to parents so they could understand the changes around an order of sacraments that have occurred since their childhood faith journey began.  

Each family has been working and praying together and they have now completed their At Home Preparation for Confirmation activities. The final meetings for children and their parents will be held on Monday August 29 and Tuesday August 30 at 6pm in Sacred Heart Church. The celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation will take place in Surfers Paradise Parish on Friday, September 2, at 5 pm and 7 pm. 

 

Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION 2022                                                                                        

The last group of our parish children for First Holy Communion 2022 celebrated last weekend. We thank Father Stephen Gronow for presiding and for being part of such a special evening for these seven children. 

Fr Peter, Fr Paul, and everyone at Surfers Paradise Parish is looking forward to celebrating the second, third, fourth, and many subsequent Holy Communions with these children who have brought many blessings to our parish family.  

2023 First Communion Preparation and Celebration dates 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. Within the Children’s Sacramental Program, Reconciliation, also known as Penance, follows Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.
The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team has prepared a program similar to the Confirmation and First Communion At Home Preparation Programs. If your child was previously enrolled in the Surfers Paradise Parish Sacramental Program and received the sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion, there is no requirement for you to complete a new online enrolment form. If you are unsure if your child will be included in the group or interested in your child being included in the next group, please email our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au

Children who have made their First Communion in June 2022 are also eligible to participate in this Preparation for Reconciliation. 

 

THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -   God will know us truly by our love!

Can we say with great confidence:  I am a member of the Christian Faith, and I also know and love Jesus?   It is so important that these two statements can be said. Since the readings this weekend make it clear that paper membership in a group is not enough - we have to Know the Shepherd and hold his values and show that in our actions and attitudes. On the last day, the Lord will judge us not by how well we can recite the list of ten commandments and other rules of the Church,  The Lord will judge us on how we loved, as he loved. He will welcome those he recognises as his beloved children by the fruits of their lives.  It's a sobering message, but as we deepen our understanding and knowledge of the person of Jesus, his gracious love and compassion are what bring us home to him.  

 

Who we truly are, includes how we live and act.  How we respond to God's invitation to be disciples is essential. Everyone is invited to respond to God's invitation as well. We are warned not to become complacent. Our Lord also warns us not to become elitist. We are not to become people who exclude others.

 

We gain entry into the Kingdom not by our badge of membership alone, but by being recognized as a disciple of Christ by our love and faithfulness to God's message, and by being true friends of Jesus … in action as well as in name…. Knowing Jesus and being known by Jesus….. in our lives and choices….  

 

So, this is the unsettling message of today's Gospel. 

 

The people listening to Jesus' parable (his own people, - The people of Israel), would have been very concerned by his message and they would say what is on the lips of the people in the parable.

 

The people are really saying words to the effect of this: "But, we ate with you, we heard your teaching! We are your fellow People of Israel. We are the Chosen People of God. We have Abraham as our Father and the Prophets as our divine inheritance. We are the saved people, and the privileged people of God's promise." 

 

The shocking reply would be too awful to contemplate: "Sorry, I don't know you and I do not know where you come from!" What does he mean 'I don't know where you come from???????" They come from his own PEOPLE, but this is clearly not enough, according to Jesus. 

 

People from other nations and cultures, who are not part of the chosen people, are welcomed into God's family and God's house ahead of those who have gotten cosy and self-satisfied in the presumption that their place in God's house is assured by simply being a member of a group. Jesus is warning all who follow him that a place in God's house is offered to all who respond to his values and teachings and his invitation, irrespective of their background and culture or membership. 

 

It is a sobering reminder to all that we must constantly be open to God's surprising wisdom and teachings. We must never fall for the trap of thinking that we have gotten the message and that we have nothing more or new to learn about God's ways.

 

Jesus, throughout the Gospels, constantly has to teach his disciples that they have an enormous amount to learn (a lifetime and beyond) about God's ways and wisdom. Anyone who thinks they have already arrived at the fullness of what it means to be a follower of Jesus, anyone who thinks they are living out the perfect example of what a follower of Jesus should be, ought to be very humble and careful. 

 

Discipleship in Christ demands constant vigilance, a humble openness of heart and mind, and a willingness to have our attitudes changed by God's wisdom. Jesus also seems to be inviting us to be welcoming and open to an ever-increasing group of people throughout the community and the world. just as God extends this warm welcome to everyone.

 

To be a follower of Jesus is to be open and always ready to be surprised and respond differently to what God is doing. Being a faithful disciple of Christ also means being always alert to the dangers of taking our membership in God's family for granted and resting on our laurels. It is rather about being ready with an open mind and heart. 

 

God will say "I KNOW you"  when we have, through our lives and actions, shown that we really and truly KNOW and (at least) start to comprehend the person, message and values of Jesus and his very different ways…. and live it.  

(References: Fr Paul W. Kelly). 

 

(Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 1969865581- Locked Closed House Door. Forgot Key Inside-Photo Contributor- Andrey_Popov). 

To listen to the 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.   

 

 

INSPIRING QUOTES OF (or about) THE SAINTS: 

  • AUGUST 20 - M - Saint Bernard of Clairvaux., abbot and doctor of the Church

    • “There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is Curiosity.  Some seek knowledge to be known by others; that is Vanity. Some seek knowledge to serve; that is Love.” 

    • “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” 

    • “Many of those who are humiliated are not humble. Some react to humiliation with anger, others with patience, and others with freedom. The first is culpable, the next harmless, the last just.”  

    • “What we love we shall grow to resemble.”  

    • “Neither fear nor self-interest can convert the soul. They may change the appearance, perhaps even the conduct, but never the object of supreme desire... Fear is the motive that constrains the slave; greed binds the selfish man, by which he is tempted when he is drawn away by his lust and enticed (James 1:14). But neither fear nor self-interest is undefiled, nor can they convert the soul. Only charity can convert the soul, freeing it from unworthy motives.”

    • “The wise man, therefore, will see his life as more like a reservoir than a canal. The canal simultaneously pours out what it receives; the reservoir retains the water till it is filled, then discharges the overflow without loss to itself ... Today, many in the Church act like canals, the reservoirs are far too rare ... You too must learn to await this fullness before pouring out your gifts, do not try to be more generous than God.”

    • “A saint is not someone who never sins, but one who sins less and less frequently and gets up more and more quickly.” 

    • “What I know of the divine science and holy scripture, I learnt in the woods and fields.”

    • Blessed," he says, "are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God" (Mt 5:9). Consider carefully that it is not the people who call for peace but those who make peace who are commended. For there are those who talk but do nothing (Mt 23:3). For just as it is not the hearers of the law but the doers who are righteous (Rom 2:13), so it is not those who preach peace but the authors of the peace who are blessed.”

    • “To shame our sins He blushed in blood; He closed His eyes to show us God; Let all the world fall and know that none but God such love can show”  ― Bernard of Clairvaux.

 

  • St. John of the Cross

    • "They say, "God told me", or "God replied to me". And yet most of the time they are talking to themselves." 

  • SAINT ROSE OF LIMA -

    • "If only mortals would learn how great it is to possess divine grace, beautiful, noble, and precious. How many riches it hides within itself, how many joys and delights! No one would complain about his cross or troubles that may happen to him if he would come to know the scales on which they are weighed when they are distributed to men."

    • "Apart from the cross, there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven."

    • "When we serve the poor and the sick, we serve Jesus. We must not fail to help our neighbours, because in them we serve Jesus." .

  • St Louis IX. King of France. 

    • "I think more of the church where I was baptised than Rheims Cathedral where I was crowned (as King of France).  It is a greater thing to be a child of God than to be the ruler of a kingdom. 

    • To deal justly and equitably with your subjects, be straightforward and firm, turning neither to the right hand nor the left, but always following what is just and upholding the cause of the poor until the truth is clear. 

    • Our clothing and armour ought to be of such a kind that men of mature experience will not 

say that we have spent too much on them, nor younger men say we have spent too little. 

 

In prosperity, give thanks to God with humility and fear lest you abuse God's benefits and so offend him by pride.

 

To avoid contention, never contradict anyone, except in case of sin or some danger to a neighbour; and when necessary to contradict others and to oppose your opinion to theirs, do it with so much mildness and tact as not to appear to do violence to their mind, for nothing is ever gained by taking up things with excessive warmth and hastiness.

  • St Joseph Calasanz (1557-1648)

    • "As Scripture says, "Those who instruct many in justice will shine as stars for all eternity." They will attain this more easily if they make a covenant of perpetual obedience and strive to cling to Christ and please Him alone because, in His words, "What you did to one of the least of my brethren, you did to me." 

    • "Moreover, the strongest support is provided not only to protect the young from evil but also to rouse them and attract them more easily and gently to the performance of good works. Like the twigs of plants, the young are easily influenced as long as someone works to change their souls. But if they are allowed to grow a hardened heart, we know that the possibility of one day bending them diminishes greatly and is sometimes utterly lost." 

  • (Image -   http://www.themorgan.org/collections/collections.asp?id=81 Public Domain ) 

(source:  ©2022 TrueQuest Communications. TakeFiveForFaith.com; mail@takefiveforfaith.com. All rights reserved. Noncommercial reprints are permitted with the following credit: Reprinted with permission from TakeFiveForFaith.com. Scripture citations from the New American Bible Revised Edition. For more information about TAKE FIVE and our regular contributors, go to PrepareTheWord.com.Free daily email and app available online at TakeFiveForFaith.com/subscribe.)

 

 

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.  

Click here to DONATE NOW

 

 

 

POPE FRANCIS: On Compassion:

"The Lord never tires of forgiving. It is we who tire of asking for forgiveness."

 

"A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just."

 

"Too often, we participate in the globalisation of indifference. May we strive instead to live global solidarity."

 

"Let us care for one another and let us be loving custodians of creation." (2nd Tweet as Pope)

 

"Kindness is firm and persevering intention to always will the good of others, even the unfriendly."

 

"We must restore hope to young people, help the old, be open to the future, spread love. Be poor among the poor. We need to include the excluded and preach peace."

 

"We will never be disillusioned or lose our way if God guides us."

 

"We all have the duty to do good."

 

"Grace is not part of consciousness; it is the amount of light in our souls, not knowledge nor reason."

 

Source:  https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/quote-archive1/pope-francis#:~:text=Pope%20Francis%20on%20Hope%3A&text=%22Although%20the%20life%20of%20a,us%20to%20move%20beyond%20fear  

 

Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 312860177 - April 30th. 2014, Pope Francis on Wednesday General Audience. Vatican City, Italy. Photo Contributor: softdelusion66

 

 

Co,As.It. Community Services  

is a not for profit organisation based on Chevron Island with Head Office in Brisbane, Co.As.It. Community services is a peak body within the aged care and community services industry which has won industry recognition for providing high quality services and excellent  care.   

 

October is a month for Seniors Celebration and Co.As.It. Community Services is hosting a Euro Concert to bring the community together. 

 

Attached please find the Euro Concert Flyer. 

You can find out more about this event by clicking on the link below. 

https://www.coasit.asn.au/events/euro-concert-gold-coast/ 

 

 

 

NOTICES AND MESSAGES  (Our new parish number is 5671 7388)


RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS ARE AT THE SACRED HEART CHURCH, AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCH

New stock has arrived this week which includes statues, rosary beads, medals, inspirational plaques, holy cards, greeting cards, sacramental gifts and much more available at the Parish Religious Good Shops, which are open before and after the weekend Masses. Other times, please contact the Parish Office.

 

Bold & the Beautiful Friendship Group 

Lunch at twelve Noon, Thursday 25th August at Surfers Paradise Golf Club. Everybody Welcome. Leona Kelly 56308206

 

ST VINCENT’S CHURCH

Ladies black framed reading glasses found, please collect at the Vestry.

 

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. 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 six weeks are  

22/8/2022      Joanne Ferguson - Clear Island Waters

29/8/2022      Joanne Ferguson - Clear Island Waters

 

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 the 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 allows you to grow in your relationship with your spouse or 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. 

 

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 Twelve Noon

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

 

ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN - OFFICIAL ARCHDIOCESAN COLLECTION  

20 - 21 August 2022 *Please click here to give now* 

 

    

YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE- 

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.










PASSIONIST FAMILY GROUP GATHERING 

ABOUT    -A Passionist Family Group gathering for all ages - families, couples, singles. A weekend to celebrate our shared goals and values. Adult and children/young people group activities provided by the Passionist Youth Retreat team and PFGM team.

For more information: -  https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=919030&

DATE Friday 2 September 2022 4:00 PM - Sunday 4 September 2022 10:00 AM (UTC+10)

Booking essential. 

LOCATION  Get directions Bornhoffen PCYC.  3510 Murwillumbah Road, Natural Bridge QLD 4211

 

JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

Catholic Mission is Hiring! DIOCESAN DIRECTOR | Full-time | Permanent

For the Archdiocese of Brisbane and the Diocese of Toowoomba

• Permanent Full-time position based in Brisbane with responsibility for Archdiocese of Brisbane and Diocese of Toowoomba.

• Be part of a highly experienced and inspirational national and diocesan team.

• Become an integral part of a global network of Catholic development work. See https://www.catholicmission.org.au/jobs-at-catholic-mission for the Advertisement and the Position Description.

 

Position Vacant – Finance Officer - Southport

Applications are open for a position at the Southport Catholic Parish. A person with excellent finance experience required for a part time position of Finance Officer working 22.8 hours a week over 3 days.

For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/ and to careers. Applications close: 21 August 2022

 

Position Vacant – Parish Secretary Booval Parish

 Applications are open for a position at the Booval Parish. A person with excellent administration and secretarial skills is required for a part-time 2-year contract position of Parish Secretary for 20 hours per week, 5 hours on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website- https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities 

Closing date – 21 August 2022. Please note that short-listed applicants may be interviewed before this date. Interested applicants are therefore encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

 

Position Vacant – Finance & Compliance Officer- Gatton Laidley

 Applications are open for the above position at the Gatton Laidley Parish. The position is a part-time 10 hours a week with the days to be negotiated with the Parish Manager.

 For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/  and to careers. 

Applications close: 26 August 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 conducting ‘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 -  

There are different styles or genres within the Bible. It is important to read the different styles with a proper understanding of the style of the text. For example, within the Bible, there is Poetry, History, Parable, Proverbs, Song, and Allegory (that is,” a figurative treatment of one subject under the guise of another; a presentation of an abstract or spiritual meaning under concrete or material forms”). Within the Bible, there are also additional genres:  Letters, Preaching, Creation Sagas, Lists of Family Trees and so many more styles. One would naturally read a poem quite differently from the way one would read a standard informational letter. The meaning one takes from each type of writing depends on the context.

 

(image - Shutterstock Photo ID: 2109836936- Photo Contributor- Sensay). 

 

SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ -  An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.

BREAKDOWN OF SOCIETY

43. Human beings too are creatures of this world, enjoying a right to life and happiness, and endowed with unique dignity. So we cannot fail to consider the effects on people’s lives of environmental deterioration, current models of development and the throwaway culture.

44. Nowadays, for example, we are conscious of the disproportionate and unruly growth of many cities, which have become unhealthy to live in, not only because of pollution caused by toxic emissions but also as a result of urban chaos, poor transportation, and visual pollution and noise. Many cities are huge, inefficient structures, excessively wasteful of energy and water. Neighbourhoods, even those recently built, are congested, chaotic and lacking in sufficient green space. We were not meant to be inundated by cement, asphalt, glass and metal, and deprived of physical contact with nature.

45. In some places, rural and urban alike, the privatization of certain spaces has restricted people’s access to places of particular beauty. In others, “ecological” neighbourhoods have been created which are closed to outsiders in order to ensure an artificial tranquillity. Frequently, we find beautiful and carefully manicured green spaces in so-called “safer” areas of cities, but not in the more hidden areas where the disposable of society live.

{source:  https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html

 

LINKS & RESOURCES

Liturgy for you at Home (produced by SPP): https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

Weekly Homily (produced by SPP): https:- homilycatholic.blogspot.com

Surfers Paradise Parish Facebook: https:- www.facebook.com/surferscatholic/

Breaking Parish News (SPP Blog):  https:- news-parish.blogspot.com/

EthicsFinder is a free, global, digital resource; of immense value to interested parishioners. Try ACU’s free, digital tool www.ethicsfinder.com 

 

NEXT SUNDAY’S READINGS   

Readings for next weekend: Sunday, August 28, 2022 (Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year C)

FIRST READING: Sir 3:17-20, 28-29

Ps 68:3-4, 5-6a, 9-10 – “Lord, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.”

SECOND READING: Heb 12:18-19, 22-24a

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 14:1, 7-14) “Alleluia, alleluia! Take my yoke upon you. Learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart.”

GOSPEL: Luke 14:1, 7-14

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 

“The Church loves all her children like a loving mother, but cares for all and protects with special affection those who are smallest and defenceless. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community.” 

(Apostolic Letter issued ‘motu proprio’ by the Supreme Pontiff Francis, 4 June 2016) 

 

Purpose 

To promote a culture of safeguarding within the Archdiocese and reduce the risks of abuse and harm. 


Scope 

This policy applies to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Brisbane and to Associations of Christ’s Faithful, or Public Juridic Persons which freely opt into its application and which enter into an agreement with the Archdiocese accordingly. The policy applies to all Archdiocesan workers (including clergy, religious, employees and volunteers). 

 

Policy 

National Catholic Safeguarding Standards 

The Archdiocese adopts and adheres to the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards. The Standards apply to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop. 

 

Safeguarding Commitment 

The Archdiocese has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and is committed to safeguarding everyone involved in its activities, ministries, and services. The safety and well-being of children and adults at risk is paramount. 


Safeguarding Principles 

  • Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. 

  • Treat everyone with dignity and respect. 

  • Prioritise the protection and best interests of children and adults at risk. 

  • Provide safe physical and online environments. 

  • Actively identify and manage safeguarding and abuse risks. 

  • Monitor compliance with safeguarding standards, policies, and procedures. 

  • Respond promptly and effectively to abuse concerns, suspicions, disclosures, complaints, reports, and incidents. 

  • Comply with all legal obligations to report suspected abuse and harm.  


Compliance 

Non-compliance with this policy which seriously jeopardises the safety and wellbeing of others may be grounds for disciplinary action up to dismissal or termination of employment and reporting to authorities. 

 

Document No.: AD16 ST01       Document Owner: Office for Safeguarding Services            Version: November 2020              Review Date: November 2023

 

https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/  - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -    

See also this video on safeguarding -   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgkAZFkJkJg 

 

SAFEGUARDING SURVEY 


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