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“And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?” (Luke 18:7)
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2052773321 - Belgrade Serbia Europe -3, October.2021:Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade Icon in the Mosaic Lord Jesus Christ Almighty. Photo Contributor: Predrag Lukic
PASTOR’S POST. The Not-So-Last Rites
Apropos of last week’s Post where I indicated my admiration for those who work in the medical field, particularly in hospitals, I felt I needed to clarify that, although I have been admitted as a hospital patient several times in the last five years, my more regular participation in ward life is when I am called to offer the sacrament of anointing of the sick or ‘extreme unction’ as many would remember it. While we still get calls at the parish office for a priest to “come and do the last rites”, it has taken constant clarification to let people know that such a ritual does not have to be “last” and can be offered many times to a person who is enduring an illness of a serious nature. This misunderstanding about anointing of the sick is understandable, since for many years, even centuries, it was seen as a once-only option, where only those in imminent danger of death required this blessing in order to smooth their entry into eternity. Such was this belief that many wealthy believers in the middle ages travelled with a personal chaplain just in case they were attacked on their journey, and they could get a clean bill of spiritual health just before death.
Since we now understand that God’s healing presence is something that we can receive many times in our life then the rites are not to be seen as a “once only” experience. Mind you the sacrament is not meant to be seen as a replacement for medical assistance or as a “cure all” for any minor illness. It is meant for a malady of a serious nature, be it physical, mental or spiritual. The Oil of the Infirmed is not a magic potion, but a symbol of Christ’s healing presence and an accompaniment to the prayers and intentions of those who gather for the sacrament.
In some ways we haven’t moved very far from this traditional understanding linking the sacrament to imminent death. There have been times when I have offered anointing of the sick to an elderly relative, who was horrified to think that they might be about to breathe their last breath. There have been other occasions when after having offered the sacrament I have been told, “I might as well give it a try. I can’t do any harm”. Like all sacraments this sacrament of healing is relational and must be connected to the faith of those present.
Examples of Jesus' ministry of healing are scattered throughout the Gospels and it is rare to hear of a situation where the healing hands and words of Jesus did not bring about immediate recovery. While I am in no doubt that there were many times that it was the intervention of Jesus that did bring about such healing, I suspect there were times that the recovery of the person was related to a belief in the presence of some magic force rather than the healing power of God, and in some ways that belief has not completely disappeared. At times I feel that some patients see me as the ‘shaman’ arriving to use the magic oil and words of an ancient spell that will have them up and about in minutes. Such expectations usually end in much disappointment.
Whenever I am called to anoint a person, I try to use some of the time with them and/or their family to explain what the sacrament means, letting them know that healing is not always physical, and that their faith in the presence of God at this time of fragility opens them up to a unique connection with God, who wants to be with us at times of our greatest burdens. Sometimes the most significant impact is often seen in the strength that it offers them to endure whatever may be ahead of them, particularly if that future results in death.
It is really only relatively recently that medical facilities have recognised the great benefits of these spiritual rituals in assisting in the wellbeing and acceptance of their patients. The staff in our parish hospitals and nursing homes all seem to appreciate our visits to their patients, at times telling us that they noticed an identifiable change in the attitude of the patient after we had visited. What is important is for people to know that the minister is not the healer, but a conduit to the presence of God, who wishes to be close to all who suffer and will accompany them through whatever trials they may be facing.
Fr Peter Dillon PP
FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON AND DOORS TO BE LEFT OPEN FOR AIR CIRCULATION AND BREEZES!
Please Don't Ask The Coordinator To Turn Them Off. Also, please do not close the doors in the church as we need a flow of fresh air. Coordinators are following Church Health and Safety directions. It may be necessary to relocate to another seat that may better suit your needs or bring something warm to put on. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
DATE CLAIMERS DATE CLAIMERS DATE CLAIMERS
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 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
DATE CLAIMER - CATHOLIC MISSION APPEAL - PARISH
The annual Catholic Mission appeal for our parish will be next weekend 22nd/23rd October 2022.
This year World Mission Sunday has the theme “You shall be my witnesses (Acts 1-8)
Our Catholic Mission Appeal is supporting the work of the church in the Emdibir diocese of Ethiopia.
Here the church and community are working as one to create a goat rearing centre, where nutritious goat milk will be produced and distributed to families most in need.
No matter how big or small your contribution will have an impact.
https://www.catholicmission.org.au/ -
HAPPY NINETIETH BIRTHDAY TO VERONICA HADDAD
Veronica enjoyed Mass on her special birthday, along with her daughter, Maria, pictured with Veronica, and parishioners and friends. Here are some photos from the delicious morning tea afterwards.
Above are two ladies in their nineties - Pat Clancy and Veronica Haddad.
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
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
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
***PLEASE NOTE: ITALIAN MASS RETURN - UPDATE
“ ITALIAN MASS IN OCTOBER - to be held at Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. on the 23rd October and 30th October. Everyone is welcome. But, NO ITALIAN MASS on the 16th of October as the Italian Scalabrinian priest will be in Rome for the Canonization and Pilgrimage of San Giovanni Scalabrini. Please contact Giovanna on 07 55395528 or email gianna52@hotmail.com for further information about the Italian Mass on the Gold Coast.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Pray persistently and God will respond. Ask God to bless the Church with faith-filled ministers. (Luke 18:1-8)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -
“…proclaim the word, be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient...”2 Timothy 4:2
It is not always convenient to be a good steward, especially when all the temptations of our busy and materialistic world get in the way. Now add our own pride and ego into the equation, and living a stewardship lifestyle may be downright uncomfortable! Remember, God didn’t call us to be comfortable. He never said that we would have an easy life. Rather, He called us to be faithful!
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: Maria Yuna, Pauline Dolan, Peter Lofts, Phil Bawden, Maria Teresa Gutierrez, Geoffrey Dixon, Margaret Haerse, Annie Scicluna, Jo Clark, Kay Pitman, Michael Murtagh, Leslie Clarke, Lena Hiscock, John Nathaniel Maher, Shirley Montford, Beryl Dorfield, Joanne Mooney, Patricia Roberts, John Thomas, Tom Ross, Joanne Parkes, Maria Manuela, Jack Barretto, Kath Kiely, Doug Chester, Kathy Stevens, Nellie Bellinger, Leslie Clarke, Raymundo C. Isaga, Kristy Peat, Anna Janiek, Andrew McPherson, Louise Holmes, Michael & Denise Tracey, Betty & Patrick O’Connell, Margaret & George Cook, Fred Grioli, Lynn Nunan, Elaine Casonati, 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, Milka Barac, Rodney & Norma McLennan, Lois & Doug Wood, William Franklin, Maria Mihalic, 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: Bernard (Bernie) Markijevic, Marianne Nelson, Aparecida Jose Teixeira,Ray Burton, Donnie Williamson, Betty Eviston, Duncan Dawson, Helen Watter, Paz Tumbokon, Derrick James Thompson, Fr Joe Sardie, Baby Adele, Phyllis Taheny, Fay Marie Giovine, Phillipa Kennedy, Liudmyla Ganshyna, Baby Theodore, Rhona Egan, John Weinber, Sr Carmel Hodkinson PBVM, Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022), Helen McMeniman, Sr Mary O’Brien, John Smith, Gienna Rufus, Kees Van Grinsven, Bob Hood, Nicole Tierney, Garry Robert Sullivan.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Bali Bombing 102 souls, Mello Scharenguivel, Emy Vetsch, Harold Alexander, Gwen Hoare, Yvonne Martin, Therese Hooworth, Sylvia Moray, Bea Hughes, Nalin Sena, Alex Renotul, Edwin Emile Ware, Rodney Bertram Matthews, Cecil John (Digger) Hogan, Marta Goran, Virginia Mary Fay, Bessie Rice, Cecilia Louisa Vlemmix, Christine McQuee, Danielle Suzanne Marthe Marie Begaud, Helen McIntosh Davidson Kelly, Stephen John Schreck, Rosario Nocal, Carmen Kruse, Julie Mary Ritchie, William Henry Mitchell, (Uncle of Robyn Hunt), Philippe Melham Aouad, Flora Hodge, Elizabeth Neilsen. And also: Robert Sharwood, Noel Francis (Frank) Evans, Marie Kjöller, Eileen Roulent, Anne Mary Donaldson, Steven John Smithers, Leo Brennan, Fr Andrew Horan, Gwendolyn Isobel Hodges, Grayton Barryman Rosemeyer, Thomas & Winifred Robertson, Emmanuel Primo Odiamar, Ivan Patricio Susin, Lee Gordon, Patricia Morgan, Bali Attack Anniversary, William (Bill) Arthur Weise, Bob Biltoft, Kathleen Eileen Vosti, Norm Modral, Marie Elizabeth Giles, Eva "Midge" Gardner, Keiran John Ryan, Peter Lawrence Taffe.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Yes, there's a day for that!
Mealtime arrives three times daily. Most of us are glad to sit down and dig in. Yet for 800 million people worldwide, there isn't enough to eat. Nearly 40 percent of the world community can only afford nutrient-poor diets. The medical costs associated with unhealthy diets will soon exceed $1.3 trillion annually. The problem isn't growing enough food. Fourteen percent of each harvest is lost to bad handling, storage, and transit methods. Another 17 percent is lost at the consumer end; it simply goes bad or gets thrown away. World hunger is solvable. Find out more at World Food Day.
“Proclaim the word . . . convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 3:14—4:2).
“For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfilment, and will not disappoint.” Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4; 2
“Thus says the LORD the God of hosts: Woe to the complacent in Zion!” Amos 6:1a, 4-7; 1.
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 PENANCE - RECONCILIATION October 2022
Over 50 children are now preparing for the First Rite of Reconciliation which will be celebrated on Thursday, October 20, 2022, at 5:30 pm in Sacred Heart Church. These children are fully initiated members of our Catholic family of faith and they are now preparing for Reconciliation which is a Sacrament of Healing. Within the Children’s Sacramental Program, Reconciliation, also known as Penance, follows Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.
On the cross, Jesus has already given his life for each of us. In the sacrament of Reconciliation, we simply give God a chance to share with us the infinite merits of his Son. We accept God’s invitation to be restored in our relationship with God and the Church.
The Surfers Paradise Sacramental Team has prepared a program similar to the Confirmation and First Communion At Home Preparation Programs. Please pray for these children and their families as they prepare to embrace God’s love and forgiveness through this healing sacrament.
Sacrament of CONFIRMATION 2023
Dates and information for enrolling in Confirmation Preparation for 2023 will be available soon.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION 2023
Dates and information for enrolling in First Holy Communion Preparation for 2023 will be available soon.
SILENT WEEKEND RETREAT
God delights in me. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
18 – 20 NOVEMBER 2022. At SANTA TERESA RETREAT CENTRE - Ormiston, Brisbane.
Santa Teresa has a main chapel and a small adoration chapel. Outdoor prayer spaces include a Labyrinth, Cana walk, Hermitage, Yarning Circle, prayer walks and Stations of the Cross. It sits on beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking Moreton Bay. Catering: It is a fully catered facility (breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning & afternoon teas), with a chef who can accommodate any dietary requirements. Their website https://santateresa.org.au Accommodation: single bed & ensuite. Cost: $350 per person for two nights
Program: Group sessions [Meditation, Reflection, Creative Contemplation, Mass, Blessings, etc.] Individual companioning available with Spiritual Directors Catherine Smith & Lynne Head-Weir Bookings essential: Mareece 0413071552 Email: mareecem@hotmail.com - For further information: contact any one of us.
St Mary’s Coomera Parish Retreat Team Catherine Smith: csmith3183@gmail.com
Lynne Head-Weir: lynneheadweir2@gmail.com; Anne-Marie O’Connor: amoconnor54@hotmail.com ; Mareece Grant : mareecem@hotmail.com
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL - ASK, SEEK, KNOCK!
Pray constantly, and never lose hope. This is the ever-relevant message from the Lord. And meditate on the Word of God as necessary nourishment for faith. As I have mentioned previously. God always answers our prayers… always. But sometimes, for reasons we cannot see with our limited human perspective, the answer is sometimes a loving but firm NO. But, when we pray, God bends our minds and hearts to his will and keeps us close to him. He promises to be faithful to us and have the last word in everything..
Our Lord is encouraging us to keep trusting and hoping in God… and always knowing and truly believing that (come what may), God wants only our good…..
Jesus wants us to go on continuing to trust in God … and believing in God's goodness……and that God loves us like an unconditionally loving, doting parent … and to walk always in hope and keep praying for all that is good…. God will be faithful to us now and into eternity…
The second reading is great too. St Paul reminds Timothy that the Scriptures are excellent for leading a good life, and are wonderful touchstones to the values that make a good disciple. Every human insight, philosophy, value, or world view needs to be tested against the message and values of the Scriptures and put under the spotlight of Christ's message. So, it is really SURPRISING AND disappointing to read a recent survey conducted in Britain revealed that only a third of Catholics surveyed, considered that the Bible is very important to their faith.
That is an astounding and incomprehensible result, considering, as the second reading says today, the Bible is the foundation stone which holds the living word of God, and which chronicles God's constant relationship with his beloved people from the earliest times until the coming of Christ and commissioning his disciples to continue his work through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Just 34 percent of Catholics in that survey thought that the Bible is "extremely important" to the Catholic faith, and 41 per cent are "not sure where to begin with the Bible". Almost half – (45 per cent) - said they didn't have enough time to read the Bible and the vast majority - 84 per cent - said they encounter the Bible most when hearing it in Church. More encouragingly, 53 percent of Catholics said they read the Bible daily.
St Paul reminds us, the study of the Scripture trains a person in integrity until that person is equipped for every good work. Here is a key point. The study of the Scriptures must never be selfish, never simply for the good of a person's own soul. Any conversion which makes a person think of nothing but the fact that they, themselves have been saved is not a true and full conversion to the fullness of the Gospel of the Lord. We study the Scriptures so that we can be useful instruments for God and for our brothers and sisters. And the first reading reminds us there are different types of action in the Christian community… including the fieldwork and also just as importantly the prayer and intercession work of so many …. And also those who help lift up, support and sustain all who are praying and interceding too…. So many different roles, all for the work of the Kingdom. Christians understand that our salvation is caught up with the sense that we belong to a "People of God"….. and that we are to be passionate about the salvation of everyone around us as much as our own.**
In this week's gospel, Our Lord tells this parable not with the intention of comparing The Heavenly Father with a grasping and selfish judge. Quite the contrary! Our Lord wishes to contrast God the Father with earthly judges. The basic point is: "If, in the end, even an unjust and greedy judge can be wearied into giving a poor widow justice, how much more will God, who is a loving Father, give his children what they truly need?"
The irony of the gospel this weekend is, that there is no need to keep repeating our requests as if we think God will be worn down and eventually give in to us, just to get us out of his hair. No. God is love. God cares for us and our real needs. God hears us in our need and response with love and compassion. If there are delays in response, it is not out of lack of care or from not hearing.
The interesting thing about this gospel is the judge in this parable is clearly not a Jewish Judge. They had three judges to rule on a decision. So, this was a Roman judge, often known for their corruption. They were known as (to paraphrase another language and for ease of description) "Judgers of Robbers," but the locals jokingly nicknamed the "Robber Judges." You couldn't get justice unless you paid them a bribe or could do them a favour. The poor widow had no influence and no money. All she had was persistence and she kept calling for justice. Even a corrupt and greedy judge gave in and gave her justice not because he cared and not because he respected God but just to get rid of her. So, God is going to hear our needs with love as soon as we ask them and we can trust in this.##
"Having said this, there is no reason why we should expect to get whatever we pray for. Our Lord constantly commended us to see God as a truly loving father. We know that often a loving parent has to regretfully refuse the request of a child, even a persistent son or daughter because the parent KNOWS that what the child asks would hurt rather than help. God is like that. We do not know what is to happen in the next hour, let alone the next week, or month, or year. Only God sees the whole picture, and, so, only God knows what is good for us in the long run. That is why Our Lord said we must never be discouraged in prayer. That is why he wondered if people's faith would stand the long delays before the return of the Son of Man.##
"However, we will never grow weary in prayer, and our faith will never falter if, after we have offered to God our prayers and requests, we add the perfect ending to every prayer as shown by the example of Christ's own prayer life and teaching… by always ending every prayer with: "however, not my will be done, O Lord, but yours!"##
References: ##THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE SERIES. REVISED EDITION. THE GOSPEL OF LUKE. WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS. PHILADELPHIA. 1975; **THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE SERIES. REVISED EDITION. THE LETTERS TO TIMOTHY, TITUS, AND PHILEMON. WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS. PHILADELPHIA. 1975; Fr Paul W. Kelly
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Image by Reystleen. Shutterstock Licensed stock photo ID: 21918460. Old door knocker.
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.
OCTOBER 15 Saint Teresa of Jesus, virgin and doctor of the Church
There are more tears shed over answered prayers than over unanswered prayers.
To have the courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that.
I know the power obedience has of making things easy which seem impossible.
We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can - namely, surrender our will and
fulfil God's will in us.
I do not fear Satan half so much as I fear those who fear him.
Be gentle to all and stern with yourself.
Accustom yourself continually to make many acts of love, for they enkindle and melt the
soul.
Our body has this defect that, the more it is provided care and comforts, the more needs
and desires it finds.
For prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.
“Let nothing perturb you, nothing frighten you. All things pass. God does not change.
Patience achieves everything.”
“May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. Mayyou be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each andevery one of us.”
Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”
“It is love alone that gives worth to all things.”
“Christ has no Body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no Body now on earth but yours.”
“It is foolish to think that we will enter heaven without entering into ourselves.”
“Thank God for the things that I do not own.”
“The closer one approaches to God, the simpler one becomes.”
“You pay God a compliment by asking great things of Him.”
“If this is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so many enemies.”
OCTOBER 17 - Saint Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr
St. Ignatius of Antioch "I have no taste for corruptible food nor for the pleasures of this life. I desire the bread of God, which is the flesh of Jesus Christ, who was of the seed of David; and for drink I desire his blood, which is love incorruptible" (Letter to the Romans 7:3 [A.D. 110]). "Take note of those who hold heterodox opinions on the grace of Jesus Christ which has come to us, and see how contrary their opinions are to the mind of God. . . . They abstain from the Eucharist and from prayer because they do not confess that the Eucharist is the flesh of our Savior Jesus Christ, flesh which suffered for our sins and which that Father, in his goodness, raised up again. They who deny the gift of God are perishing in their disputes" (Letter to the Smyrnaeans 6:2–7:1 [A.D. 110]).
We recognize a tree by its fruit, and we ought to be able to recognize a Christian by his action. The fruit of faith should be evident in our lives, for being a Christian is more than making sound professions of faith. It should reveal itself in practical and visible ways. Indeed it is better to keep quiet about our beliefs, and live them out, than to talk eloquently about what we believe, but fail to live by it.
Christianity is not a matter of persuading people of particular ideas, but of inviting them to share in the greatness of Christ. So pray that I may never fall into the trap of impressing people with clever speech, but instead I may learn to speak with humility, desiring only to impress people with Christ himself.
Do not have Jesus Christ on your lips, and the world in your heart.
My dear Jesus, my Saviour, is so deeply written in my heart, that I feel confident, that if my heart were to be cut open and chopped to pieces, the name of Jesus would be found written on every piece.
Christianity is greatest when it is hated by the world.
See that ye all follow the bishop, even as Jesus Christ does the Father, and the presbytery as ye would the apostles; and reverence the deacons, as being the institution of God. Let no man do anything connected with the Church without the bishop. [] Wherever the bishop shall appear, there let the multitude [of the people] also be; even as, wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church. [] Whatsoever [the bishop] shall approve of, that is also pleasing to God, so that everything that is done may be secure and valid.
It is better to be silent and be real than to talk and not be real.
It is right, therefore, that we not just be called Christians, but that we actually be Christians.
I am writing to all the Churches and I enjoin all, that I am dying willingly for God's sake, if only you do not prevent it. I beg you, do not do me an untimely kindness. Allow me to be eaten by the beasts, which are my way of reaching to God. I am God's wheat, and I am to be ground by the teeth of wild beasts, so that I may become the pure bread of Christ.
Take heed often to come together to give thanks to God and show forth His praise. For when you assemble frequently in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith.
It is impossible for a man to be freed from the habit of sin before he hates it, just as it is impossible to receive forgiveness before confessing his trespasses.
Do everything as if He were dwelling in us. Thus we shall be His temples and He will be within us as our God - as He actually is.
No earthly pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire. Do not talk about Jesus Christ as long as you love this world.
Now do I begin to be a disciple of Christ, and care for nothing in this world, that so I may find Jesus. Let fire, or the cross, or wild beasts, or the breaking of my bones, or the cutting of me to pieces, or the shattering of my whole body, yea, all the tortures of the devil - let them all come upon me, only let me enjoy my God.
Wherever the bishop shall appear, there let the multitude also be; even as, wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.
It is not that I want merely to be called a Christian, but actually to be one. Yes, if I prove to be one, then I can have the name.
A Christian is not his own master, since all his time belongs to God.
But look at the men who have those perverted notions about the grace of Jesus Christ which has come down to us, and see how contrary to the mind of God they are. . . . They even abstain from the Eucharist and from the public prayers, because they will not admit that the Eucharist is the self-same body of our Savior Jesus Christ which flesh suffered for our sins, and which the Father of His goodness raised up again.
I wish not merely to be called Christian, but also to be Christian.
I hunger for the bread of God, the flesh of Jesus Christ ...; I long to drink of his blood, the gift of unending love.
Our task is not one of producing persuasive propaganda; Christianity shows its greatness when it is hated by the world.
He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire.
Let no man's place, or dignity, or riches, puff him up; and let no man's low condition or poverty abase him. For the chief points are faith towards God, hope towards Christ, the enjoyment of those good things for which we look, and love towards God and our neighbor.
Your accord and harmonious love is a hymn to Jesus Christ...in perfect harmony, and taking your pitch from God, you may sing in unison and in one voice to the Father through Jesus Christ.
It is better for me to die on behalf of Jesus Christ, than to reign over all the ends of the earth.
Wisdom from Saint Luke the Evangelist: (Quoting the teachings of Our Lord).
“For with God, nothing will be impossible.”
“And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
- “To whom much is given, from him much will be required.”
- “To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic. Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.
Wisdom from St JohnBrébeuf:
-“I was at times so weary that my body could do no more. But at the same time, my soul was filled with great happiness as I realised that I was suffering this for God.”
“God is the witness of our sufferings, and will soon be our exceeding great reward. Let us die in this faith...Sustain with courage the few remaining torments. They will end our lives. The glory which follows them will never have an end.”
Wisdom of Saint Paul of the Cross (1694 – 1775):
The passion of Jesus is a sea of sorrows, but it is also an ocean of love. Ask the Lord to teach you to fish in this ocean. Dive into its depths. No matter how deep you go, you will never reach the bottom. Let us throw ourselves into the ocean of His goodness, where every failing will be cancelled and anxiety turned into love.
The Cross is the way to Paradise, but only when it is borne willingly.
Let everything in creation draw you to God. Refresh your mind with some innocent recreation and needful rest, if it were only to saunter through the garden or the fields, listening to the sermon preached by the flowers, the trees, the meadows, the sun, the sky, and the whole universe. You will find that they exhort you to love and praise God; that they excite you to extol the greatness of the Sovereign Architect Who has given them their being.
Entrust yourself entirely to God. He is a Father and a most loving Father at that, who would rather let heaven and earth collapse than abandon anyone who trusted in him.
The Passion of Christ is the greatest and most stupendous work of Divine Love. The greatest and most overwhelming work of God's love.
Be very careful to retain peace of heart, because Satan casts his lines in troubled waters.
Place your hopes in the mercy of God and the merits of our Redeemer; say often, looking at the crucifix: There are centred all my hopes.
I tell you that victory consists in conquering self. That is the greatest enemy.
Meditation on Jesus Christ crucified is a precious balm that sweetens all pains.
Celebrate the feast of Christmas every day, even every moment in the interior temple of your spirit, remaining like a baby in the bosom of the heavenly Father, where you will be reborn each moment in the Divine Word, Jesus Christ.
Here learn the science of the Saints: All is to be found in the passion of Jesus. Make every effort to remain hidden in the wounds of Jesus, and you will be enriched with every good and every true light, enabling you to fly to that Perfection that is consonant with your way of life.
He that rises after his falls, with confidence in God and profound humility of heart, will become, in God's hands, a proper instrument for the accomplishment of great things; but he who acts otherwise can never do any good.
In uniting yourself to God's will, you take on new life and gather great courage, willingly embracing the cross and kissing His hand even when it chastises you, a hand that reaches out to you in love and has no other intention but your greater spiritual well-being.
When you feel the assaults of passion and anger, then is the time to be silent as Jesus was silent in the midst of His ignominies and sufferings.
You do wrong to complain of your crosses and sufferings. Believe me, you know not what it is to suffer. God preserve you from suffering even one day what has been endured by a certain soul, whose name I must not disclose!
Avoid failing, not only against purity, but even against the least rules of an exact modesty.
Let weak and frail man come here suppliantly to adore the Sacrament of Christ, not to discuss high things, or wish to penetrate difficulties, but to bow down to secret things in humble veneration, and to abandon God's mysteries to God, for Truth deceives no man- Almighty God can do all things. Amen.
©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 pleads for Church unity on 60th anniversary of Vatican II
Published: 12 October 2022
People holding lighted candles leave St Peter’s Basilica after Pope Francis celebrated Mass yesterday to mark the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council (CNS/Vatican Media)
Pope Francis yesterday marked the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council by pleading for the Church to “overcome all polarisation and preserve our communion”.
In a Mass in St Peter’s Basilica, which served as the council’s chambers during the 1962-1965 meetings, the Pope said the council, which was inaugurated by Pope St John XXIII, was “one great response” to the question “Do you love me?” posed by Christ to his disciples.
“To rekindle her love for the Lord, the Church, for the first time in her history, devoted a council to examining herself and reflect on her nature and mission,” the Pope said.
Yet while the ecumenical council revisited many areas of Catholic doctrine, reassessed its relationship with other Christian communities and religions, revised Catholic liturgy to allow for the vernacular, and reconfigured Church structures to allow for greater participation of the laity, in the 60 years that have followed, it also proved to be a flashpoint among various ecclesial circles.
During the 60th anniversary Mass, Francis lamented that those changes had sometimes led to deep divisions within the Church and warned against the temptation of “worldliness.”
“Let us be careful: Both the ‘progressivism’ that lines up behind the world and the ‘traditionalism’ that longs for a bygone world are not evidence of love, but of infidelity.”
During the Mass, the Pope once more reiterated his support for the reforms of Vatican II.
“How timely the council remains!” he said. “It helps us reject the temptation to enclose ourselves within the confines of our own comforts and convictions.”
Source: NCR Online. - Pope Francis marks 60th anniversary of Vatican II opening by pleading for the church to overcome polarisation (By Christopher White, NCR Online)
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS AT THE SACRED HEART CHURCH AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCH
The October Catholic Leader, Queensland’s monthly newspaper available now $4.
Queen was one to build not walls but bridge : Archbishop
Church joins talk to help solve housing crisis
“I was in prison” and they still care enough to visit
Service is a calling for all: Pope
GOLD COAST PARISHES — 24 hours Adoration - Southport
Tuesday 1 pm to Wednesday 1 pm every week at Guardian Angels Church 99 Scarborough Street, Southport. Parking onsite, the church is secured from 6 pm to 8 am. We are joining the effort to have Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Archdiocese of Brisbane. To make this a success we need 2 people per hour. Please indicate your availability for a one-hour commitment. email brisbane.adoration@gmail.com - We will be in touch in mid-October to confirm your exact time and other details. We expect to start our Adoration cycle on the first Tuesday in November 2022
Volunteer Opportunities - English Teachers, Youth Workers & Youth Ministers
The Cagliero Project is an initiative of the Australia-Pacific Province of the Salesians of Don Bosco, providing overseas volunteer experiences for Australians who wish to work with disadvantaged young people.
We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers for January 2023 departure. Our volunteer placements run for 6-12 months and are centred around working with young people in educational settings. We are currently recruiting volunteers for Cambodia, Samoa, Timor Leste, Australia and the Solomon Islands.
We aim to utilise the skills and talents of our volunteers to provide the best possible contribution to the host community. Our aim is not to ‘help’ but to walk in solidarity with young people and for volunteers and hosts to have a mutual learning experience. We are also present in host communities to be role models - people that young people can aspire to be.
Cagliero volunteers who commit themselves to work in the ‘Salesian way’. This means that young people are the central focus of all work. The Salesian way also means approaching life in a joyful way with a loving heart. The experience as a Cagliero volunteer is not about the volunteer but is focused on the people we go to serve. However, serving as a Cagliero volunteer will probably be the most rewarding thing you ever do!
For more information, or to send us an inquiry, follow this link: http://cagliero.org.au/
Applications close on October 31st, 2022. Contact: Lauren Hichaaba, Director of the Cagliero Project
Email: lhichaaba@salesians.org.au
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 four weeks are:
17/10/2022 Merla & Rodney Antony
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
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.
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/
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 - The Tribunal of the Catholic Church and its pastoral role in respect of marriage nullity cases - Fr Paul Kelly.
(Tribunal of marriage - continued- Fr Paul Kelly …)
The Ministers in the Tribunal:
Judicial vicar - Allocates judges, appoints persons to cases and defines the causes to be explored. The Judicial Vicar is usually the head judge in these cases.
Judges: Usually, decisions in these cases are decided by a college of three judges who must make a majority decision. On special occasions (e.g. where three judges are not available), one judge works with two “assessors” who assist the judge by offering a view on the matters as presented. If any of the parties appeals, the appeal must be heard by three judges in an independent region who arrive at a majority decision.
People who gather the materials and testimonies and evidence of the case are called “Auditors,” and they collect declarations and conduct interviews with the parties and witnesses. They assist the judges by gathering the information for the judges, to allow the judges to be able to make a decision.
Every case of nullity must have a “Defender of the Bond”, (DV), who is there to ensure that the rights of all parties to the marriage have been respected, and also to highlight and focus on all observations and questions that support the presumption of the validity of the marriage. The DV is there to ensure that the presumption of validity is respected according to the church’s obedience to the sanctity of marriage.
Advocate – for the applicant or the respondent, are specialists in church law who support the case of the parties to the marriage but not like a civil law barrister. They don’t represent and take advice from the parties, but they do have a care and attention particularly for that party's interests and use their (church) legal expertise to ensure the applicant or respondent is heard, and that their rights have been respected.
A "Procurator" is sometimes used to act in the place of a party when he or she is unable to participate or chooses not to act.
There are legal procedures and documents and processes that must be done to ensure that justice and the rights of all parties to the matter are respected and protected. If these procedures are not followed, the process and any decisions are null - Again, this is to protect the rights of all involved. A “Notary” witnesses and attests to the various documents received that are needed or collected for the evaluation of the matters. This gives everyone confidence that procedures have been followed and all parties rights have been respected.
SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ - An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.
70. In the story of Cain and Abel, we see how envy led Cain to commit the ultimate injustice against his brother, which in turn ruptured the relationship between Cain and God, and between Cain and the earth from which he was banished. This is seen clearly in the dramatic exchange between God and Cain. God asks: “Where is Abel your brother?” Cain answers that he does not know, and God persists: “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground. And now you are cursed from the ground” (Gen 4:9-11). Disregard for the duty to cultivate and maintain a proper relationship with my neighbour, for whose care and custody I am responsible, ruins my relationship with my own self, with others, with God and with the earth. When all these relationships are neglected, when justice no longer dwells in the land, the Bible tells us that life itself is endangered. We see this in the story of Noah, where God threatens to do away with humanity because of its constant failure to fulfil the requirements of justice and peace: “I have determined to make an end of all flesh; for the earth is filled with violence through them” (Gen 6:13). These ancient stories, full of symbolism, bear witness to a conviction which we today share, that everything is interconnected, and that genuine care for our own lives and our relationships with nature is inseparable from fraternity, justice and faithfulness to others.
71. Although “the wickedness of man was great in the earth” (Gen 6:5) and the Lord “was sorry that he had made man on the earth” (Gen 6:6), nonetheless, through Noah, who remained innocent and just, God decided to open a path of salvation. In this way he gave humanity the chance of a new beginning. All it takes is one good person to restore hope! The biblical tradition clearly shows that this renewal entails recovering and respecting the rhythms inscribed in nature by the hand of the Creator. We see this, for example, in the law of the Sabbath. On the seventh day, God rested from all his work. He commanded Israel to set aside each seventh day as a day of rest, a Sabbath, (cf. Gen 2:2-3; Ex 16:23; 20:10). Similarly, every seven years, a sabbatical year was set aside for Israel, a complete rest for the land (cf. Lev 25:1-4), when sowing was forbidden and one reaped only what was necessary to live on and to feed one’s household (cf. Lev 25:4-6). Finally, after seven weeks of years, which is to say forty-nine years, the Jubilee was celebrated as a year of general forgiveness and “liberty throughout the land for all its inhabitants” (cf. Lev 25:10). This law came about as an attempt to ensure balance and fairness in their relationships with others and with the land on which they lived and worked. At the same time, it was an acknowledgment that the gift of the earth with its fruits belongs to everyone. Those who tilled and kept the land were obliged to share its fruits, especially with the poor, with widows, orphans and foreigners in their midst: “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field to its very border, neither shall you gather the gleanings after the harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner” (Lev 19:9-10).
72. The Psalms frequently exhort us to praise God the Creator, “who spread out the earth on the waters, for his steadfast love endures for ever” (Ps 136:6). They also invite other creatures to join us in this praise: “Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars! Praise him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! Let them praise the name of the Lord, for he commanded and they were created” (Ps 148:3-5). We do not only exist by God’s mighty power; we also live with him and beside him. This is why we adore him.
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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