PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”
(Luke 14:28)
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2167632861 - The unbuilt Monastery Church of the Virgin Mary is an unfinished Gothic building with a completed Baroque bell tower in Panensky Tynec. Photo Contributor: vanGeo
PASTOR’S POST. Age Before Beauty
Our former Archbishop John Bathersby frequently reminded me that getting old is no fun. I’m sure he wasn’t the first person to say or think that, but I flinched a little when he said it, thinking that maybe the best parts of my life were over and everything was downhill from there. While he may have said it, he didn’t live as he believed it. He was actually a person who seemed to live a busy and energetic life. Still, I suspect he was thinking about his beloved pastime of climbing mountains, which became a physical trial for him as his body aged. He claimed that age just snuck up on him when he wasn’t paying attention. A concept that I am starting to accept, as the body wears out, but the head seems not to take notice.
We can spend too much time envying the young with their boundless energy, ambitious opportunities, fearless endeavours and easily repaired aches and pains. Going out for entertainment after a busy day at work confounds me. What on earth could anyone do after 9 pm that is more satisfying than reading in bed?
It has taken me a long time to realise that pining for the old days is such a wasted exercise while living with the reality of who, what, and where I am today opens up a whole new range of possibilities. I now appreciate that some of the experiences I wished for in my youth were not nearly as fulfilling as I had imagined, while others that I decided to leave for my senior years now offer no great appeal.
I’ve been helped along this path by collecting several sage sayings from those who have gone before me and have offered their wisdom to make the ageing journey more fulfilling, starting with the oldest from Confucius, who said,
“Old age, believe me, is a good and pleasant thing. Indeed, you are gently shouldered off the stage. Still, then you are given a comfortable front stall as a spectator”
While Samuel Ullman reminds us,
“Nobody grows old merely by living many years. We grow old by deserting our ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul”.
It’s easy to list the number of things we can’t do as easily at 70 as we did at 17, like jogging 5 kilometres or climbing Mount Warning. Still, we can walk (sometimes quite slowly) around a golf course or spend an afternoon at lawn bowls or a few hours playing bridge or reading a gripping novel, the sorts of activities that young people think are too uninteresting. Believe me, It is possible to raise a sweat tackling a cryptic crossword. Moving the body is always important, but the mind requires equal attention.
Where is the rule book that says we have to fill every waking moment with a fast-moving activity, wearing outfits resembling underwear more than outerwear or blasting our heads and those nearby with incessant noise? Just like when we have to make do when we can no longer climb the stairs to the bedroom or clean the bathtub, we have to recalibrate our expectations and find new and creative ways to fit our desires into our capabilities. When we eventually realise that ageing is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.
If we’ve been smart and collected our life experiences and turned them into wisdom, then we have a solid foundation for not just enduring old age but actually making a success of it. We know what things to hold on to and what things to let go of. We know what arguments are worth the trouble and what disciplines are worth the energy, which people need our love and attention and which ones just draw on our emotions and kindness. If only that were a lesson the young could learn, but as they say, youth is wasted on the young. Old age is not important unless you are wine or cheese.
Fr Peter Dillon PP
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY
This weekend, the first Sunday of September, we give thanks to all Fathers; for their love, care and generosity. We pray that God grants them joy, health, and strength with their family and friends.
Also, for all fathers who have passed into eternal life. May God give them a permanent place at the heavenly feast, the reward for all their goodness and kindness. Happy Father's Day to all our Dads in the community. May God bless you and grant you peace and joy.
“God our Father, in your wisdom and love, you made all things. We give thanks for the Fathers and ask you to Bless all Fathers. Grant them the wisdom and love always to be good fathers. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth. Grant that we, their sons and daughters, may honour them always with a spirit of profound respect. We also give thanks for all fathers who have now gone to their eternal rest. May they be rewarded for their goodness and kindness. Grant this through Christ our Lord.” Amen.
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 website.
https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/spiritual-direction/
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION - PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE OF DATE
The usual 1st Friday Adoration at Sacred Heart Church will be transferred to Friday 9th September (due to confirmations being held on Friday evening 2nd September). Adoration time will be Friday 9th September 2022: 7 pm to 8.30 pm.
Enquiries: Helen 0421935678 - "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40
FIRST SATURDAY MORNING MASS FOLLOWED BY ADORATION & BENEDICTION
SACRED HEART CHURCH 9 AM 3RD SEPTEMBER 2022.
BINGO TUESDAY - Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies (SPCL)
“Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies will be having their Bingo Tuesday on the 6th of September 2022, from 10.00 am to 1.30 pm. Please phone Maxine Sela at 0421051193 or Wendy Webb on 0412237832 to book your seat for this day.” God Bless
MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley on 13.09.2022 for a feast related to Our Lady Of Fatima. The bus will pick up at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare is $25.00 return for each person.. You can secure your seat with a contact name and phone number with Xavier Solomon at 0404 843 260, Madeleine at 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
BCE EXCELLENCE AWARDS
5 staff members of St Kevin’s School were nominated for BCE Excellence Awards:
Meg King – Yr 6 teacher
Renee Gordon- Yr 5 teacher
Marea Molloy – Yr 4 teacher
Georgia Blackwell- Guidance Counsellor
Paola Diaz – WHSO
Marea Molloy was a finalist and received a commendation from the director of BCE and Archbishop Mark at the awards ceremony in Brisbane on Thursday night 25th August. Congratulations to everyone.
ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN THANKYOU MESSAGE-
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
An Afternoon with The Catholic Guy Bruce Downes
We all need to refresh and be inspired at times. Many of you follow The Catholic Guy daily online or on TV, but this week you are invited to attend his first LIVE Brisbane Event post-Covid. Bruce and the team are excited to set up a new recording space in Brisbane and are holding the first Event there on 10th September. Don’t miss this spiritually powerful experience.
An Afternoon with The Catholic Guy Bruce Downes. 12.30 pm – 4.30 pm
Saturday 10th September 2022. The Catholic Guy Offices (NEW Recording Space!!!)
6 Overend Street, East Brisbane. Register today - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/an-afternoon-with-the-catholic-guy-bruce-downes-registration-401094172467
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 (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.
A VOCATION VIEW:
You have one precious life to give. How do you choose to offer it to God? Be willing to accept the challenges of discipleship. (Luke 14:25-33). To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -
“Everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
When we first hear this statement, it seems that Jesus is making an unrealistic demand upon us. How can we renounce all of our possessions? We need them to live. However, we must renounce the belief that they belong to us. Everything that we have belongs to God alone. All of our resources are entrusted to us not only for our use but also so that we can help others. Once we renounce the idea that we possess or are entitled to anything, it is much easier to share the many gifts that God has given us. Then we truly are His Disciples.
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: Ray Burton, Shirley Montford, Beryl Dorfield, Joanne Mooney, Patricia Roberts, Jenelle Mullins, John Thomas, Tom Ross, Joanne Parkes, Maria Manuela, Jack Barretto, Kath Kiely, Doug Chester, Kathy Stevens, Stephen Cokim, Nellie Bellinger, Leslie Clarke, Raymundo C. Isaga, Kristy Peat, Leon Mostert, Anna Janiek, Andrew McPherson, Louise Holmes, Don Williamson, Michael & Denise Tracey, Betty & Patrick O’Connell, Margaret & George 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: Sr Mary O’Brien, Kees Van Grinsven, Bob Hood, Nicole Tierney, Garry Robert Sullivan, Joan Simmonds, Ken Ledster, Les Edmonds, John Joseph Despard, Daphne Andreas, Michael Armstrong, George Busuttil, Brian Edmund Jones, Bruce Smith, Sr Cecilia Anning RSJ, Barbara Arthurson, William Walker, Remi Young, Alan King, Carmen Nicolas, Alvin Smith, Billy Edmonds, Ellen Moffitt, Anne Logan, Noel Watson, Alice Morrasayan, John Tobin, Kwang Hua Lim, John Gerard Robinson Jnr, Joseph Kania, Joe Hilton, John Massingham.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Joseph Francis Wherby, Max Butler, Molly Brennan, Colin Francis Bingham, Joe Dominiak, Carmela Parente, Luciano Fioravanti, Edna Hamilton, Joan Margaret Gibbon, Wladyslawa Dominiak, Bernard William McKay, Timothy Sullivan, Dr Des McGarry, Dean Tamer, Gordon Peter Gillespie, Alfredo Delacruz, Ivy Bosworth, Del Enid Anderson, Antonia Johanna Maria “Tony” de Ruyter, Carol Rose Williamson, Josephine Di Giorgio (2005), Louise Marie Young, Carina Faith Barrington, Bożenna Rayson. And also: Marija (Marie) Ivka (nee Sunich) Mercep, Antonio Cecco, John Cummins, Lisa Margaret Quartermaine, Edmund Scotter White, Santina (Tina) Mantello, Joan Patricia Baker, Jadvyga Ladyga, Ronnie Bourke, Dorothy Pierce, Dalibor Novak, Frank Gardner, Bruno Chiera, Elizabeth Catherine Grippo, Kichizo Matsumoto, John Bottos, Soledad Viva, and Inocencia Taleon, Algernon (Algie) Scharenguivel , Frederick Jerome (Fred) Anderson, Topie Paagalua, Patricia Mary “Tricia” Keevers, Linda G. Mirasol, Robert George Hanley, Clement Durkin. Bruck Wheeler, and Wheeler, Westwell and Woodgate Families.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Embrace the hard sayings
Nice-guy Jesus inhabits our religious imagination, a carryover from the colouring books. This smiling Lord seeks lost sheep and welcomes prodigal kids home. He banishes fevers and wipes away tears. It can be a jarring wake-up call to encounter the gospel of Jesus, who does all those things but also says we have to give up everything to be his followers. Can’t we negotiate here? Does “all” really mean all? Very few will take this saying literally. The vast majority of us spend our lives seeking a comfortable compromise. Jesus is asking for ultimate loyalty, not personal poverty. Does he have your heart? “Anyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:25-33). SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
MASK WEARING
The risk of Flu and Covid virus 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.
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 their 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
Sacrament of Confirmation Celebrations - Friday September 2 at 5pm and 7pm in Sacred Heart Church.
Look out for some photos of 2022 Confirmation Celebrations in next week’s newsletter.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION 2023
Dates and information for enrolling in First Holy Communion Preparation for 2023 will be available soon.
Sacrament of PENANCE - RECONCILIATION 2022
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
To become a full disciple of Christ comes at a considerable cost. Being a full-fledged follower of Christ means accepting a value system often at odds with other values. This can lead to us being ridiculed and ostracised - throughout history, it has led to people losing their friends, family members, reputation, position in society and even their lives... The cost is worth it, but our Lord wants us to know that the values of The Kingdom of God will turn on its head, many values of the world... Those benefitting from keeping things as they always were will not surrender their position and privilege. Our Lord doesn't desire divisions, but he warns us there are no fence-sitters in the Kingdom of God. We have to jump in wholeheartedly and be prepared for the opposition. which will not fight fair. Sadly, those who oppose Christ's values oppose his vision of true justice, compassion, inclusion, love, and peace.
Why would Jesus counsel his followers to "hate" their families or lives? Again, it seems contrary to the consistent message of love, inclusion, mercy and graciousness that Our Lord has been proclaiming throughout his ministry.
(Barclay)…. "When Jesus made this declaration, he was on the road to Jerusalem. He knew he was on his way to surrender everything for us all... / to suffer and die on the cross; the crowds with him thought he was on his way to an empire. No wonder he turned around and spoke so clearly and bluntly to them in this way.
In the most vivid way possible, he told them that anyone who wanted to follow him was not on the road to worldly power and glory, but rather: they must be ready for the loyalty which would sacrifice the dearest things in life and ready for suffering which would be like the agony of a man upon a cross (and for Christ himself - and some of his closest disciples it was literally to be such agony).
But we must understand his words as intended ... and with all the nuance of the Eastern language, it was spoken...which is always as vivid as the human mind can make it. When Jesus tells us to "hate" our nearest and dearest, he does not mean that literally. He means that no love in life can compare with the love we must bear to GOD. Christ knew if anyone who followed him had him in second priority or lower, then when the first of many challenges, threats and suffering came along, these people would fall away swiftly...
So, this passage teaches us that :
(i) It is possible to be a follower of Jesus without being a disciple; to follow the army (so to speak) wherever it went, without being a soldier of the Monarch; to be a hanger-on in some great work without pulling one's weight.
There is a modern-day story where a person talked to a great scholar about another person name-dropping his connection with that scholar. "So-and-so tells me that he was one of your students." The great scholar replied, "He may have attended my lectures, but he was not one of my students." It is the same with the Christian church --- there are so many distant followers of Jesus, but how many are real disciples?
(ii) A Christian's first duty is to count the cost of following Christ.
But if the high demands of Christ daunt us, let us remember that we are not left to fulfil this task alone. Christ who called us to this steep path will walk with us every step of the way and be there at the end to meet us."##
Our Lord's constant practical example and his wider teachings show us that we must love and cherish our family and loyally keep our commitments and our duties that we owe to our parents and family… / Our Lord saved one of his most stinging criticisms for people who used religious excuses to justify neglecting their duty to their parents and family. / So, when Our Lord says in the Gospel that we should 'hate our lives or families"…. The actual point of Jesus' message today is not to reject or abandon the bonds of the family... the ties of blood... but to WIDEN our vision of FAMILY.
So, Jesus is telling his disciples that HIS definition of "family" includes not only our traditional ties of "blood relations"…… but also to include all who follow Jesus and act on his word/ all who hold the values of the Kingdom, and all people…….. (which he means to be taken seriously).
Also, we DO know that Jesus had a deep respect and love for his family, both his earthly family and His Heavenly Father. So, faithfulness to Christ and love and respect for our family need not be any kind of contradiction. Hopefully, our faith, values, and relationship with our family and friends will be mutually consistent and supportive. But, if there has to be a choice between following God and remaining a part of our loving family, something must have gone awry in that family. Jesus is asking here, "You've got to be in this 'discipleship thing' 100 per cent! Half measures will never do. ………. Being the Body of Christ makes us complete sharers in the life of Jesus! And Jesus was never known to do things half measures.
There may very well be a bit of "hating" at the time of Christ's ministry, though the hating was not by Jesus or his followers… Rather.. some people hated Jesus' message, wanted to destroy him and his message, and persecute his disciples - precisely because they are seen welcoming outsiders and strangers into the "family-fold" they think should not be there. Unintended (but very real) conflict and loss will be suffered because of choosing to follow Jesus; because people are included in Jesus' plan who others think should be left out…….. Hatred and persecution will come from those who are very comfortable with things. Because they are doing very well, thanks, while others are doing very badly. A change in this situation will be detrimental to them and helpful to everyone else. And they will not stand for it.
The plain truth is: Our goal is not merely to be a good person and avoid doing wrong. …… Being a disciple of Jesus is the goal. Discipleship is an expensive proposition. It costs everything we have. (Jesus needs us to give all we have in energy and time). Why is the price so high? Because the stakes are just as high. And his Kingdom is filled with wonderful values and virtues worth fighting for and life-giving and lasting.
Christ is asking us to put our lives, energy and resources into the service of his plan for building up the Kingdom of God and its radically transforming values.
Jesus knows that following him will lead to tensions and pain…. Not because he wants us to reject family but because his message INCLUDES more people in the family than others (under the old system) can cope with…. In Our Lord's Kingdom… water is thicker than blood….. (the water of baptism, that is)…. In the Kingdom…the waters of Baptism bind us more closely and are infinitely more important than even the utterly-deep ties of family …. And so this turns the whole system on its head. If people everywhere extended to all those we meet that same love, loyalty and unconditional bond of generosity that we share with people who are related to us, … what a different world it would be… and it would be a world ever-closer to the Vision of Christ's Kingdom.
We see an example of this transformation perfectly illustrated. Saint Paul… a true and inspiring disciple of Christ… speaks about a fellow Christian.. a runaway slave … who has become like a son to him because he is a fellow disciple in Christ….. Paul writes to another disciple and begs him to accept his runaway slave not as a slave anymore but as a brother….. this is consistent with Jesus' gospel….. there is a considerable change in our lives and relationships when we become true disciples of Christ…. Things change quite dramatically… old values and old ways of doing things. END…… and old advantages and arrangements are changed forever… the owner of that slave has paid a big price for becoming a Christian… he has lost his slave.. who is now a free person… because in Christ there is no distinction between slave and free.. we are all free…
Whatever happened to Onesimus... was he freed as Paul requested?... Let us move on about fifty years. Saint Ignatius, one of the great Christian martyrs, is being taken to execution from Antioch to Rome. As he goes, he writes letters--which still survive--to the Churches of Asia Minor. He stops at Smyrna and writes to the Church at Ephesus, and in the first chapter of that letter, he has much to say about their wonderful bishop. And what is the bishop's name? It is Onesimus, and Ignatius makes the same pun as Paul made--he is Onesimus by name and Onesimus by nature (a word which means "profitable" - he is the "profitable or useful" one to Christ. It may well be that the runaway slave had become Ephesus's great bishop with the passing years.^^
How wonderful are God's ways... well worth staying on this difficult path.
{References: ## Barclay, William. 1975. The Daily Study Bible – Luke's Gospel. Edinburgh: St Andrew Press; ^^Barclay, William. 1975. The Letters Of Timothy, Titus And Philemon. Edinburgh: Saint Andrew Press; SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ; Fr Paul W. Kelly}
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 223987429 - TRNAVA, SLOVAKIA - OCTOBER 14, 2014: The neo-gothic fresco of four evangelists (Mark, Luke, Matthew, John) by Leopold Bruckner (1905 - 1906) in Saint Nicholas church. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
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.
SEPTEMBER 3 - Saint Gregory the Great, pope and doctor of the Church
New cities rise on the ruins of former times. New traditions build on existing ones. This is how history proceeds. Gregory the Great, the leader the early church needed in 590, understood this better than most. Instead of destroying temples to earlier gods, he instructed missionaries to bless them with holy water and repurpose them. The same with festivals associated with other gods. He suggested that their meaning be tied to “good fellowship,” with food offered not as sacrifices to pagan gods but “for the glory of God.” In this way, pre-Christian Europe was converted to Christianity. Build upon the past as you help shape the future church and society.
SEPTEMBER 8 - The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
This feast originated in Jerusalem about the sixth century, a development of the feast of the dedication of the church of Saint Anne, built in Jerusalem "where Mary was born". Observed in Rome in the seventh century, it was later used to determine the date of Mary's Immaculate Conception. Because of her importance in salvation history, Mary's birthday is celebrated as well as those of her son Jesus the Lord and of Saint John the Baptist (24 June).
SEPTEMBER 9 - m - Saint Peter Claver, priest
What can we do in the face of injustice and inhumanity? We read and hear about it in the news, we see it play out on our borders and in our cities. But what can one person do? Peter Claver, a pious seminarian from Spain who volunteered for the Spanish colonies, was deeply troubled by the treatment of slaves brought from Africa to Cartagena. He headed for the wharf as soon as a slave ship entered the port, boarded, and ministered to the desperately ill human cargo who had managed to survive the horrendous journey. He also advocated and petitioned, insisting that human rights be respected. No evil is so great that you cannot be a force for lessening it.
©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.
POPE FRANCIS: Pope Francis on Education:
"How do we help our young people not to see a university degree as synonymous with higher status, with more money or social prestige? It is not synonymous with that. How can we help make their education a mark of greater responsibility in the face of today's problems, the needs of the poor, and concern for the environment?"
"Solidarity, as a moral virtue and social attitude born of personal conversion, calls for commitment on the part of those responsible for education and formation."
"Dialogue educates when the person relates with respect, esteem and sincere listening, and is expressed with authenticity without obscuring or softening one's own identity nourished by evangelical inspiration."
"Education is not about knowing things or taking lessons but about being able to use three lingos: those of the head, the heart, and the hands... learning so that you can think about what you feel and do, can feel what you think and do, and can do what you feel and think. Unity within a person."
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.1524254294 - Stock Photo ID: 1524254294 - Vatican City, October 6, 2019. Pope Francis celebrates a Mass to open the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon region in St. Peter's Basilica. - Photo Contributor: Riccardo De Luca
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 that 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/
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS AT THE SACRED HEART CHURCH AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCH
The shops are open before and after the weekend Masses. Other times, please contact the Parish Office.
Available now is the 2023 God’s Word with daily readings, reflections and prayers, also religious Christmas Cards.
BINGO THIS TUESDAY - SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC LADIES
“Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies will be having their Bingo Tuesday on the 6th of September 2022, from 10.00 am to 1.30 pm. Please phone Maxine Sela at 0421051193 or Wendy Webb on 0412237832 to book your seat for this day.” God Bless
MUSICIANS AND SINGERS - PARISH MUSIC MINISTRY
As you have been made aware from recent illnesses, we have a shortage of musicians and singers for our masses. This situation will only get more pressing as time goes on. We are asking anyone interested in being part of the music and singing ministry to let us know. Ministers of music support and uplift the singing of the assembly and support the worship of all present. It is a specific ministry about worship instead of other musical endeavours in other situations that focus on performances. We need people who would be open to going to different churches and different masses to help us fill the weekly rosters.
For more information, please ring Christeen Harth 0439 399 461.
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
OUR LADY’S STATUE
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 nine weeks are:
5/9/2022 Helen & Thor Skjaerback Merrimac
12/9/2022 Eyline and Nardine Merrimac
19/9/2022 Garry & Rudi Camera Benowa
26/9/2022 Maxine & Pat Sela Main Beach
4/10/2022 Maxine & Pat Sela Main Beach
10/10/2022 Merla Nario & Rodney Anthony
17/10/2022 Merla Nario & Rodney Anthony
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”
Is 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.
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.
Position Vacant – Cleaner- The Gap, Brisbane
Applications are open for the above position at the Gap Parish. The position is part-time, working approximately 8 hours per fortnight cleaning both the Mater Dei Church & St Peters Chanel Church.
If you are interested, please contact the Gap Parish Office on 3300 6099 or email poa.thegap@bne.catholic.net.au or Fr Terry mobile 0438 946 000 - nuevat@thegap.catholic.net.au (16/9)
Position Vacant – Pastoral Ministry Coordinator - Sunnybank Parish
Applications are open for a position at Sunnybank Parish.
This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic, committed person to join the Parish team and assist them with the coordination of a variety of pastoral ministry programs.
The position is permanent part-time, 28 hours per week, with the days of work to be negotiated.
For additional information, please visit the Archdiocese of Brisbane website https://clientapps.jobadder.com/68451/aob-internal-career-opportunities/548356/pastoral-ministry-coordinator-sunnybank-parish - Applications close: 14 October 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 - Why confirm?
As the name implies, the Sacrament of Confirmation confirms or strengthens the new life received at Baptism. Symbolically, the bishop or priest makes the cross on the forehead sign using an oil called chrism. As he does so, he says, '(Name), be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.' Although the Holy Spirit is received at baptism, confirmation focuses on this gift by recalling the promise of Jesus to send the Spirit. In the case of youth, confirmation is often regarded as a sign of maturity in Christ. Having been baptised as a baby and raised in the Christian life, the youth is now called upon to make a more mature commitment to the Gospel. In particular, confirmation underlines our commissioning to be bold, apostolic witnesses to the gospel.
SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ - An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.
V. GLOBAL INEQUALITY
48. The human environment and the natural environment deteriorate together; we cannot adequately combat environmental degradation unless we attend to causes related to human and social degradation. The deterioration of the environment and society affects the most vulnerable people on the planet: “Both everyday experience and scientific research show that the gravest effects of all attacks on the environment are suffered by the poorest”.[26] For example, the depletion of fishing reserves especially hurts small fishing communities without the means to replace those resources; water pollution particularly affects the poor who cannot buy bottled water, and rises in the sea level mainly affect impoverished coastal populations who have nowhere else to go. The impact of present imbalances is also seen in the premature death of many of the poor, in conflicts sparked by the shortage of resources, and in any number of other problems which are insufficiently represented on global agendas.[27]
49. It needs to be said that, generally speaking, there is little in the way of clear awareness of problems that especially affect the excluded. Yet they are the majority of the planet’s population, billions of people. These days, they are mentioned in international political and economic discussions. Still, one often has the impression that their problems are brought up as an afterthought, a question which gets added almost out of duty or in a tangential way, if not treated merely as collateral damage. Indeed, when all is said, and done, they frequently remain at the bottom of the pile. This is due partly to the fact that many professionals, opinion makers, communications media and centres of power, being located in affluent urban areas, are far removed from the poor, with little direct contact with their problems. They live and reason from the comfortable position of a high level of development and a quality of life well beyond the reach of the majority of the world’s population. This lack of physical contact and encounter, encouraged at times by the disintegration of our cities, can lead to a numbing of conscience and to tendentious analyses which neglect parts of reality. At times this attitude exists side by side with a “green” rhetoric. Today, however, we have to realize that a true ecological approach always becomes a social approach; it must integrate questions of justice in debates on the environment, so as to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.
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 community's life. 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/)
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