PDF version of this parish newsletter here:
Also, you can access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
“Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.”
(Luke 19:5)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1247037988 - Jesus and the tax collector Zacchaeus. The interior of the Coptic Church in Sharm El Sheik, Egypt, October 31, 2018. Photo Contributor: Stig Alenas
PASTOR’S POST. What Price War?
As much as I try to block it from my mind, I cannot escape from the malaise I feel about the war in Ukraine. While the media reports are slowly moving towards smaller articles on the back pages of the newspaper, every television or radio news broadcast seems to highlight another escalation. I even try to rationalise that this war has nothing to do with me or Australia and tell myself that we have more important issues to contend with here in the Lucky Country. Still, like a stone in my shoe, I keep coming back to what it means for us in this so-called civilised world that we have despots and dictators scattered all over the world, some hiding in plain sight and seemingly able to convince their citizens that whatever invasions or incursions are for “the good of the people”.
I noticed last week that we had World Disarmament Day (October 24th, which was also the anniversary of the founding of the United Nations), which seems to be a losing cause. I haven’t ever bothered much with the concept of ‘disarmament’. We don’t tend to worry about that sort of thing when we seem protected from the rest of the world and its troubles. Then I started thinking. Was there ever a time in the history of humankind when people were not at war with some family, country or continent? Has human nature not advanced beyond the infantile desire to want something that someone else has, and if we can’t have it by peaceful means, we take it? We can try to teach children to respect people and property, but if we can’t get the elected leaders and captains of industry to deal civilly and respectfully with each other, what hope do we have? But we don’t give up or give in, even when the mountain seems too high.
Of course, that oversimplifies the nature of war, but this sense of envy and greed must certainly be one of the root causes of armed conflict. Suppose we fail to convince countries that respect for the sovereignty of other nations must be acknowledged and protected. In that case, the arguments for disarmament and peaceful resolutions of conflicts will be talkfests by the peaceful few, often dismissed as the do-gooders or peace-peddlers.
It is worth noting at this point that women lead none of the countries that are presently involved in international conflict. In fact, I cannot recall seeing any women involved in the negotiations for peaceful resolutions. The culture of disarmament must begin in the human heart and particularly in reflecting on the qualities that our world values in human beings. It has been suggested that some less helpful qualities of our culture can be seen in movies and sporting activities, where masculinity is imagined through violence, physical strength and taciturnity. This is a stunted view, and we need to encourage masculinity that is characterised by respect and responsibility. (Fr. Andrew Hamilton – Australian Catholics October 2022).
Why are toughness and courage mainly associated with warfare and seeking peace as being weak? In a world that is struggling to feed, clothe, house and educate many millions of people, it seems madness to spend billions and billions on manufacturing sabres and swords to rattle at other countries in an attempt to keep them at bay from taking what was not theirs in the first place. Actually, the manufacture of weapons which began originally on an ‘as the needed basis, has now become so important to economies and politics that to criticise it is considered unpatriotic.
While I’m not so naïve as to think that this little newsletter rant could change the course of world disharmony, I do think that unless ordinary folk start asking questions and courageously seeking answers from those responsible for the big-ticket issues, then we should keep quiet and take what’s coming to us. Yes, it is complicated and bigger than we know how to handle, but when is it acceptable to live in a world where thousands are dying of malnutrition in Somalia? Millions are homeless following the floods in Pakistan as you read this, knowing that a fraction of the money spent on arming the world for war would fix these and many other social problems. When did our world get so crazy?
Fr Peter Dillon PP
CATHOLIC MISSION APPEAL - PARISH
Thanks for your support in last weekend’s Annual Catholic Mission appeal for our parish. Mission speaker Jane Doogan spoke at some of the Masses last weekend, and we thank her for her time and encouragement. This year’s theme is “You shall be my witnesses (Acts 1-8). Our Catholic Mission Appeal supports the church's work in the Emdibir diocese of Ethiopia and worldwide. No matter how big or small your contribution will have an impact. If you did not have a chance to donate, you are welcome to visit the link here. https://www.catholicmission.org.au/
SPCL BINGO
“Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies” will be having their Bingo Tuesday on the 1st of November 2022, from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm. We will finish in time for you to go home and watch the Melbourne Cup. Please phone Maxine Sela at 0421051193 or Wendy Webb on 0412237832 to book your seat for this day.”
ALL SAINTS DAY (1ST OF NOVEMBER) - and ALL SOULS DAY (2ND OF NOVEMBER)
Mass in this parish will be offered for this Solemnity and Commemoration at 9 am at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, on the First and Second of November.
Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily) for All Saints - First November by clicking this link here:
Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for All Souls - Second November - by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-the-feast-of-the-holy-souls-all-souls-day-master-year-c/s-1ozPpFz559h
In quite a few of St Paul’s writings to different communities, he addresses his letters to “the saints in …” This term referred to the still living members of the Christian community … that is, all who were reborn into Christ by Baptism and who were leading lives of discipleship of Christ, by practically following his gospel. This picks up the sense that, for all who follow Christ, eternal life begins NOW. Eternal life is here already, although as the second reading says today, the fullness of this eternal life will not be fully revealed and experienced until the next life, with God in heaven.
The writings of both Saint Paul and Saint John are both strong on this concept that the disciples of Jesus are already saints and witnesses and already have the eternal life of Christ abiding in them; even if not fully revealed or realised.
Nowadays, when we think of “saints,” we usually refer to those who have died and are now enjoying the glory of God in heaven. We normally would not dream of calling ourselves ‘saints’ on this side of heaven because it is a word nowadays associated with those who have lived exemplary lives which deeply reflect the Gospel and who are now officially declared by the church to be in heaven with God, enjoying the eternal rest and reward of the Kingdom. Nevertheless, in the broader sense of the word, we are all called to be saints and to live this reality here and now.
Sometimes on this Feast of All Saints, it can be tempting to focus on the famous saints, such as Saint Peter or Saint Paul, and the likes. Although these are very important saints and certainly prime examples of those who belong to the communion of saints, making a big thing of them in this feast today is like two bites at the same cherry. These great saints have their own special feast days (some more than one) to commemorate their sainthood and heroic virtue. Whilst the “big saints'' are most certainly included in All Saints Day, this feast is a most important celebration of all the unsung saints who don’t have an official feast day of their own. These may not even be officially recognized by the church (yet). Some may never officially be recognised by the church or officially proclaimed a “SAINT.” However, THEY are in heaven enjoying the reward and the communion of the saints. These are family members, friends and colleagues whom we have known and who have gone to their reward having lived exemplary lives of quiet, unassuming virtue, love and service.
To celebrate ‘Life Remembrance Month’ during November, the Book of Remembrance will be placed and remain on a small table on the sanctuary, in front of the lectern.
You are invited to enter names of your deceased loved ones and friends who have gone before us.
The book will be available at the back of the Church this weekend 27/28 October and then placed on the small table at the Sanctuary from 1st November where names may be added throughout the month.
The book will remain in that position until Advent.
LIFTING CHAIR FOR SALE - Adjust electric lift chair
My name is Martin, and I am trying to help my 99-year-old grandad recoup some money that he spent on an electric lift chair (which is brand new) that he can no longer use and I'm hoping you or someone in your organisation/community might be interested in buying it. This new, super comfy Avante brand Studio Adjust electric lift and massage chair was purchased by my grandad in February this year - 2022, for $1,899 from a retailer in Tweed Heads. However, due to floods/COVID, it was only recently delivered to him - BUT sadly, my 99yr old grandad can no longer use it, and the retailer will not refund, so I'm trying to recoup some costs for him by selling the chair, to help with other medical bills. The fabric has had Scotchgard professionally applied in the store. The colour is called ‘wheat’ which can go with any interior decor. The chair has a dual motor lift and reclining action with a 6-motor vibration unit for massage. It includes remote controls (still in plastic), a user manual, receipts of purchase and 3x removal fabric pieces to help protect the fabric on the arm and headrest.
I'm happy to negotiate a price for those who are genuinely interested - however, full disclosure, I've also currently got it advertised on the Facebook marketplace for $1499.
If you are looking for a chair like this, don’t overpay in-store and wait months for one to be delivered, you can buy this new chair and use it straight away - and also know that you are financially helping a 99yr old pensioner. If you want to talk to my grandad to confirm this story check out, I'm more than happy to introduce you to him - although he is living at Mountain View Retirement Village in Murwillumbah. Pickup from the Robina location - or I can deliver within the Gold Coast area for a small extra fee.
If you or someone you know are interested or would like more photos/information, please feel free to reply to this email or call me directly on 0421874020. Kind Regards - Martin Palac. Mob: 0421 874 020.
Email: m_palac@hotmail.com
DURING CHURCH SERVICES - FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING the 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.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday, 4th November, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. 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 5th November 2022.
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
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 - “ ITALIAN MASS to be held at Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. on the 30th October, 13th November onwards. Everyone is welcome. No Mass on 6th November. 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:
Jesus approaches us and wants to come to stay with us. Be ready to change your ways, like Zacchaeus, to follow Jesus. (Luke 19:1-10). To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -
“But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, ‘Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor, and if I extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.’” Luke 19:8.
We are all called to gratefully give back to the Lord in proportion to the gifts we have been given.This means everyone isn’t called to give the same amount, but everyone is called to give equal sacrifice.Open your heart and talk to God about how you use your money.How is God calling you to be more generous with your financial resources and possessions? 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: Patrick Joven de Leon, Baby Samuel Timothy, 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: Vivian Williams, Florence (Flora) Smith, Leo Lampago, Ray Burton, Patrick Byrnes, Bernard (Bernie) Markijevic, Penny Speedy, Antonio Cruz, Nivalda Lopes Da Silva, Marianne Nelson, Aparecida Jose Teixeira, Donnie Williamson, Betty Eviston, Duncan Dawson, Eamon O’Dowd, Patsy Kelleher, Mairead Stynes, Helen Watter, Paz Tumbokon, Derrick James Thompson, Fr Joe Sardie, Baby Adele, Phyllis Tansey, 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.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: ALL Holy souls (during this month of November). Eamonn Damien Sherrard, Margaret Murphy, Kevin James Hilliard, Dr Raymond Arthur Miles, Myrene Rose Bartlett, Mary Margaret Holden, Mello Scharenguivel, Helen Wood, Varkey Padayallil, Shane Desira, Elisa Guzzo, Judith Ann Oakes,, Shirley Marie Day, Mavis Beryl Boland, Beryl Margaret Davidson, Marianne Lila Kyle-Little (Peter Carey’s Cousin)., June Butler, Joannes Maas, Patrick Roche. And also: Stephen Schreck, William Francis Taylor, Wilhelmina Antoinette Vos, Vincent Netting, Gaetana Cutayar, John Aloysius Kelly, Mary Frances (Billie) Mullahy, Kurt Hillesheim, Ryan Andrew Hogan, Betty Neilsen, Jesuraya Yema Nadar, Robert James Duncan, Alicja Paciej, Claude Wilfrid Rene, Glennis Ann Lamb, Dorothea Hay, Urbana Villagomez, Mary Wylie, Andrew Keith French, Shirley McEvoy.
HOLY SOULS: Dume, Baugh, Yangan and Sherrard Families, Owen, Iris, John and Patrick Lynch, the Freebody Family, Reese Rowe, Jessie Caton, Cyril and Ruby Wilkie, Frederick Tucker, Bruck Wheeler, and the Wheeler, Westwell and Woodgate families.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Small is beautiful
"I am only one person," we hear people say. "I'm nobody special. I don't have any power over what happens." We can all summon up plenty of reasons why our contribution to creating a more just global society is withheld. Mother Teresa of Calcutta had a different perspective. "There are no great things, only small things with great love," she said. "Happy are those." A little man named Zacchaeus once climbed a tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus. Take the small step of lifting your vision just a little higher today, and you may encounter love. “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house." Luke 19:1-10.
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.
Sacrament of 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 Surfers Paradise 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 - October 2023 (exact date to be finalised)
Within the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Confirmation is the second sacrament that children are invited to receive. Confirmation completes Baptism.
For the celebration of Confirmation in 2023, parents of children in Year 3 or older are invited to enrol their children in the continuing Sacramental Journey (Confirmation, Eucharist and then Reconciliation). In our parish, the Sacramental Journey involves preparation and celebration for children and their parents. It requires a small number of meetings and the completion of an At Home Preparation Program led by the parents and supported by the Parish Sacramental Team. The enrolment form (one form for each child) is available at our website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au
Once on the website, use the drop down menu under Sacraments to click on Confirmation; scroll down the page to Children’s Sacramental Program Application Form. Next, please complete the orange and red form and finally, click on Submit. You will receive an automated email response to indicate that your form has been received. In Term 3, 2023, you will receive an email from the Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, providing further details regarding meetings and documentation.
Please continue to regularly check the parish newsletter for Confirmation updates and further information.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION Either May 28 at 11:00am or June 4 at 11:00am, 2023
Eucharist is the sacrament that completes the process of Sacramental Initiation. The Sacrament of Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. Through this sacrament, the child can fully participate in the Eucharist (also known as the mass) by receiving Holy Communion.
In 2023, children in Year 4 or greater who have previously been enrolled in our Surfers Paradise Parish Sacramental Journey are invited to participate in preparation for their First Holy Communion. During Term 1, 2023, these families will receive an email inviting their child to participate in the At Home Preparation Program for first Holy Communion.
For those who are new to our parish in 2023, parents of children in Year 4 or greater are invited to enrol their children in the continuing Sacramental Journey (Baptism, Confirmation, First Holy Communion and then Reconciliation). The enrolment form is available at our website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au
Once on the website, use the drop down menu under Sacraments to click on First Holy Communion; scroll down the page to Children’s Sacramental Program Application Form. Next, please complete the orange and red form and finally, click on Submit. You will receive an automated email response to indicate that your form has been received. In Term 1, 2023, you will receive an email from the Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, providing further details regarding meetings and documentation in relation to the At Home Preparation Program.
Please continue to regularly check the parish newsletter for First Holy Communion updates and further information.
Sacrament of PENANCE - RECONCILIATION November 9 at 5:30pm, 2023
Penance is a sacrament of forgiveness and celebrates God’s love and mercy towards us. It is about acknowledging and naming those times when we know we have done wrong, and then making peace and restoring the relationships with those who have been affected by our poor choices. The Sacrament of Penance is celebrated through the Rites of Reconciliation.
In Term 3, parents of children who have completed their Sacraments of Initiation with Surfers Paradise Parish will receive an email invitation to participate in the At Home Preparation Program for Reconciliation.
For those whose children received the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) in other parishes and who wish their child to prepare for the Sacrament of Penance in Surfers Paradise Parish, The enrolment form is available at our website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au Please continue to regularly check the parish newsletter for Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) updates and further information.
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 the 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 - The Lord Sees into the Heart!
In the first reading this weekend, we have an excellent key to the reason God deals with us the way he does, in relation to our sins and mistakes. The Lord "overlooks people's sins, so that they may repent. For you love all things that exist, ....{and} .... you correct little by little those who trespass, and you remind and warn them of the things through which they sin, so that they may be freed from wickedness and put their trust in you."
The Gospel puts this message into action. Our Lord shows us that ostracising or rejecting and shunning people who have sinned doesn't work. In fact it often reinforces them in their sin, as they are left nowhere else to go. Our Lord sought out, associated with and ate with sinners ... he shows us that all people are God's beloved children... and the Lord only shows us our faults and errors not so that we would lose hope but so that we can see where we are going wrong and turn back to the Lord who loves us so much. Jesus wants us to have the same compassionate and constructive approach to others who have gone down dead-end paths.... he comes near to those who have strayed and invites them to re-connect him. How else could anyone be saved if they are not given the opportunity to draw near again?
The gospel for this Sunday offers us one of Luke's most delightful narratives: the story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector.
JERICHO (one of the oldest inhabited cities in history) was known locally as "The City of Palm Trees," and was a very wealthy and important town. The Romans transported its date-fruits and balsam all around the known world. All this made Jericho one of the greatest taxation centres in Palestine.
Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector, and the Jewish people would have loathed him because he was seen as collaborating with the ruling Romans by collecting their taxes for them. He was a rich man in a very rich and prosperous area. And much of his wealth came from taking more than was fair. And so, he would have been one of the most hated men in the district.
Zacchaeus was wealthy, but he was clearly not happy. Inevitably he would have been very lonely, for he had chosen a way that made him an outcast, even if a rich one. He had heard of Jesus, who welcomed tax-collectors and sinners, and he wondered if he would have any word for him. Despised and hated by people, Zacchaeus was already longing for the love and compassion of God.
Zacchaeus is determined to see Jesus and would let nothing stop him. For him, mixing with big crows was a dangerous thing to do. People would certainly use the opportunity of the crush of the crowd to give him an anonymous kick, or push as he moved through the crowd. People would not have been able to resist. Zacchaeus would have been black and blue with bruises that day, but he would not give up.
Because he was a short man, he was eager to see Our Lord so much that he did something very undignified for a man with his rank and wealth; he climbed a tree, just like an eager child. A Sycamore tree, with its short trunk and very wide branches in all directions, was a fairly easy tree to climb.
When Our Lord stopped at the tree and looked up, the crowd would surely have laughed at Zacchaeus and mocked him and awaited what they thought would be a scene where Jesus stood there and told him off for his dishonesty and lack of generosity. If they were expecting Our Lord to berate and condemn him, they must have been absolutely astounded when, instead, Our Lord spoke kindly to him and said to him, "hurry down. I must stay at your house tonight."
We notice that Jesus is the one who invites Zacchaeus to open the door. The initiative (as always), comes from Our Lord - - and Zacchaeus responds eagerly. Zacchaeus accepts Jesus' invitation and, rising to his feet, also rises to the occasion by promising to give half of his possessions to the poor and to pay back those who have been victimised by his greed and dishonesty and collusion with the hated Romans. Jesus' action of reaching out to this outcast and sinner has a profound impact on Zacchaeus' lifestyle: He is changed into a person of generosity and justice.
There is something else really astounding here about this. Zacchaeus could have stopped at just giving what Jewish law required of fraudulent crimes like this. According to the Book of Leviticus (6: 5) and the Book of Numbers (5: 7), he only needed to repay the value plus 1/5th of the value. So he was saying, I am not hiding behind the minimal requirements of the letter of the law. I am going to act justly and generously and go far beyond what is demanded. How utterly changed he had become. By Our Lord refusing to reject him and ostracise him and by giving him space and kindness, this sinful man was given the room to repent and be transformed.
Of course, Our Lord expects not just a change of words but also words backed up by practical actions.
Finally, Jesus reminds us that being a true son or daughter of Abraham is not a matter of inheritance, race, or culture. Being a true member of God's family is a response to God's invitation by practical actions, as stated in the second reading this weekend (2 Thes 1:11).
Zacchaeus (and all of us) are called to be "lovers of life," as the book of Wisdom beautifully puts it, (11:26). The God of our faith is the one who always forgives and who wants all people to put their trust in him, (Wis 12:2). This trust is well placed.
References: Thanks to an extensive quotation from these two sources for this week's homily. namely - Sharing the Word through the Liturgical Year. Gustavo Gutierrez; The Daily Study Bible. Gospel of Luke. (revised edition). by William Barclay; Fr. Paul W. Kelly
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Vector ID: 2174901319 - Zacchaeus climbed up into a sycamore tree to have a better view of Jesus. Biblical series -Vector Format - Vector Contributor: AndryDj
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.
All Saints
This feast began in the East to commemorate all martyrs and was progressively adopted in the West. Celebrated on this day in the eighth century and soon widely observed. Honoured today are all holy men and women in glory with Christ: known or unknown, mighty or lowly, all whose lives were modelled on the Beatitudes and on the great commandment of love.
All Souls
This day of commemoration began early in the Middle Ages with annual prayers for the dead in monastic communities. Fixed on this day, it spread more widely after the tenth century and now ranks with the principal feast days in the liturgical calendar. Commonly known as All Souls, it expresses Christian faith in the communion of saints and our need to pray for one another in the Church, especially those souls in purgatory "who have been buried in their human imperfection".
St Martin de Porres (1579-1639):
“One day an aged beggar, covered with ulcers and almost naked, stretched out his hand, and Saint Martin, seeing the Divine Mendicant in him, took him to his own bed, paying no heed to the fact that he was not perfectly neat and clean. One of his brethren, considering he had gone too far in his charity, reproved him. Saint Martin replied: ‘Compassion, my dear Brother, is preferable to cleanliness. Reflect that with a little soap I can easily clean my bed covers, but even with a torrent of tears I would never wash from my soul the stain that my harshness toward the unfortunate would create.’ ” (Saint Martin de Porres, Religious; from Vie du Bienheureux Martin de Porrès, by Fr. Arthur M. Granger, O.P. , Dominican Press: St. Hyacinthe, 1941).
“Everything, even sweeping, scraping vegetables, weeding a garden and waiting on the sick could be a prayer if it were offered to God.” St Martin de Porres, from Mary Fabyan Windeatt, “St. Martin De Porres: The Story of the Little Doctor of Lima, Peru”.
St Charles Borromeo (1538 – 1584):-
"Be sure that you first preach by the way you live."
If we wish to make any progress in the service of God we must begin every day of our life with new eagerness. We must keep ourselves in the presence of God as much as possible and have no other view or end in all our actions but divine honour. We must meditate before, during and after everything we do. The prophet says: “I will pray, and then I will understand.” This is the way we can easily overcome the countless difficulties we have to face day after day, which, after all, are part of our work. In meditation, we find the strength to bring Christ to birth in ourselves and in others. If a tiny spark of God’s love already burns within you, do not expose it to the wind, for it may get blown out. Keep the stove tightly shut so that it will not lose its heat and grow cold. In other words, avoid distractions as well as you can. Be sure that you first preach by the way you live. If you do not, people will notice that you say one thing but live otherwise, and your words will bring only cynical laughter and a derisive shake of the head. Stay quiet with God. Do not spend your time in useless chatter.
©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: on Refugees
It's hypocritical to call yourself a Christian and chase away a refugee or someone seeking help, someone who is hungry or thirsty, toss out someone who is in need of my help... If I say I am Christian but do these things, I'm a hypocrite."
"The faith we proclaim tonight makes us see God present in all those situations where we think he is absent... He is present in the unwelcome visitor, often unrecognisable, who walks through our cities and our neighbourhoods, who travels on our buses and knocks on our doors."
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 441803449 - Turin, Italy - June 21, 2015 : Pope Francis on the popemobile kiss child - Photo Contributor: MikeDotta
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/p/pope_francis.html#utXMg0CHJ3IXueOK.99
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS AT THE SACRED HEART CHURCH AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCH
New stock has arrived this week.
Two Christening dresses for sale, both new. Enquires to Pat 0404 805 819
Break Open the Word, Daily Mass Books, Ordo and the Advent Book will be available from 13th November onwards…. Watch this space!
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 4th November at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome. 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 5th November 2022.
Italian Mass:
There will not be an Italian Mass on Sunday 6th November but Italian masses will resume from the 13th November. Sunday - Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. Please contact Giovanna on 07 55395528 or email gianna52@hotmail.com for further information about the Italian Mass on the Gold Coast.
SPCL BINGO
“Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies” will be having their Bingo Tuesday 1st of November 2022, from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm. We will finish in time for you to go home and watch the Melbourne Cup. Please phone Maxine Sela 0421051193 or Wendy Webb on 0412237832 to book your seat for this day.”
Irish Community Annual November Remembrance Mass
We invite members of the Irish and Irish Australian Community to our Annual November Remembrance Mass which will be celebrated on: Sunday 13 November at 11.30am in Guardian Angels Church, Scarborough Street, Southport. Fr John Maher will be the celebrant.
We will gather as a community to pray for the peaceful repose of our deceased relatives and friends, especially for those loved ones who died during the past year. A Remembrance Book will be available at the beginning of Mass in which you can enter the names of the deceased that you wish prayed for. Although primarily for our Irish and Irish Australian Community, all are welcome to attend. And please join us afterwards for tea/coffee, giving you an opportunity to catch up with old friends and to find new ones.
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 seven weeks are:
31/10/22 Blanche Braganza, Benowa
7/11/22 Bernadette Hensley & Family, Arundel
14/11/22 Bernadette Hensley & Family, Arundel
21/11/22 Rachel & Kermal Courtino, Broadbeach
28/11/22 Rachel & Kermal Courtino, Broadbeach
5/12/2022 Garry & Rudi Camera, Benowa
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.
Dwelling in His Presence
5th November 2022 6.00pm (Note new starting time) Awaken Together In Christ
https://awaken_together_in_christ.eventbrite.com.au/
Our Lady of Fatima Church 350 Mortimer Rd Acacia Ridge. The Lord is calling us to come deeper into His presence, to surrender, to sit at His feet and abide In Him. 'But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42 That one thing is the presence of God and it will not be taken away from you. Seek the presence of God. Talks by Steffanie le & Fr Lam Vu. For further information admin@awaken.org.au 0437 006 264 or 0488 220 606
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
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.
PILGRIMS FOR MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church for the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on 13.11.2022. The bus will be picking up at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare is $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with a contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon at 0404 843 260, Madeleine at 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
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
Youth Coordinator @ Mango Hill / North Lakes https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/?ja-job=579972
Parish Secretary @ Stafford https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/?ja-job=573058
Youth Coordinator @ Beaudesert https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/?ja-job=569638
Administration Assistant @ Beaudesert https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/?ja-job=569622
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 the 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 …)
THERE ARE A FEW MISUNDERSTANDINGS WITH REGARD TO THE WORK AND EFFECT OF A MATRIMONIAL TRIBUNAL.
Another terrible misunderstanding is that civil divorce alone, without remarriage, does not mean a person is excommunicated and nor should these people be told that they cannot receive the sacraments. The church regards civil divorce as something that may be needed practically to protect the legal or custodial rights of the parties after a marriage has broken down irretrievably. A person who is divorced but not remarried and who is not in a de-facto relationship is as free to attend and receive the sacraments as any other member. It is also none of the business of other people regarding those purely secular arrangements.
Out of respect for the sanctity and dignity of marriage, as a God-given sacrament, it is not lightly or automatically assumed that there are defects to the consent given by a couple in their wedding. Defects must not be artificially “cobbled together” and must become obvious by forming an accurate whole picture of what was actually there in the facts of the marriage presented.
The tribunal is focusing on specific matters - It is really helpful to know this - The tribunal process is not about going through the whole number of years of marriage, to list every single event that happened or went wrong.
Another common misunderstanding that is really important to correct – and this cannot be stressed enough- is that the process is not like a civil court case. Civil court cases, relating to secular law, are usually adversarial, with two sides trying to prove the other wrong, (and often it seems at any cost). The civil legal process often is seeking to find fault in one of the parties and even looking to apportion blame. This is not what the Church nullity process is trying to achieve at all.
There are not two sides trying to win against each other. All parties and everyone involved in the Tribunal process are expected to act together in order to discover the truth.
The process wants to find the truth of what was at the heart of the causes for the breakdown, in order to bring clarity, truth and closure.
Out of justice and respect for everyone, both parties to the marriage have a right to be interviewed in the process and respond to statements made and are given a right to reply if they choose. Even if this is difficult, it is a principle of natural justice that both parties to the question have an opportunity to participate in the process by being heard in the inquiry, have a right to reply, be informed of the results and given a right of appeal.
If you ever find yourself as a witness, or even as an applicant or respondent in a case of a matrimonial proceeding, the important thing to remember is that the tribunal is NOT looking for how terrible or how good a person is in the marriage.
Also, the process is not needing the whole in-depth history of everything that happened.
SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ - An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.
III. THE MYSTERY OF THE UNIVERSE
76. In the Judaeo-Christian tradition, the word “creation” has a broader meaning than “nature”, for it has to do with God’s loving plan in which every creature has its own value and significance. Nature is usually seen as a system which can be studied, understood and controlled, whereas creation can only be understood as a gift from the outstretched hand of the Father of all, and as a reality illuminated by the love which calls us together into universal communion.
77. “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made” (Ps 33:6). This tells us that the world came about as the result of a decision, not from chaos or chance, and this exalts it all the more. The creating word expresses a free choice. The universe did not emerge as the result of arbitrary omnipotence, a show of force or a desire for self-assertion. Creation is of the order of love. God’s love is the fundamental moving force in all created things: “For you love all things that exist, and detest none of the things that you have made; for you would not have made anything if you had hated it” (Wis 11:24). Every creature is thus the object of the Father’s tenderness, who gives it its place in the world. Even the fleeting life of the least of beings is the object of his love, and in its few seconds of existence, God enfolds it with his affection. Saint Basil the Great described the Creator as “goodness without measure”,[44] while Dante Alighieri spoke of “the love which moves the sun and the stars”.[45] Consequently, we can ascend from created things “to the greatness of God and to his loving mercy”.[46]
78. At the same time, Judaeo-Christian thought demythologized nature. While continuing to admire its grandeur and immensity, it no longer saw nature as divine. In doing so, it emphasizes all the more our human responsibility for nature. This rediscovery of nature can never be at the cost of the freedom and responsibility of human beings who, as part of the world, have the duty to cultivate their abilities in order to protect it and develop its potential. If we acknowledge the value and the fragility of nature and, at the same time, our God-given abilities, we can finally leave behind the modern myth of unlimited material progress. A fragile world, entrusted by God to human care, challenges us to devise intelligent ways of directing, developing and limiting our power.
79. In this universe, shaped by open and intercommunicating systems, we can discern countless forms of relationship and participation. This leads us to think of the whole as open to God’s transcendence, within which it develops. Faith allows us to interpret the meaning and the mysterious beauty of what is unfolding. We are free to apply our intelligence towards things evolving positively, or towards adding new ills, new causes of suffering and real setbacks. This is what makes for the excitement and drama of human history, in which freedom, growth, salvation and love can blossom, or lead towards decadence and mutual destruction. The work of the Church seeks not only to remind everyone of the duty to care for nature, but at the same time “she must above all protect mankind from self-destruction”.[47]
80. Yet God, who wishes to work with us and who counts on our cooperation, can also bring good out of the evil we have done. “The Holy Spirit can be said to possess an infinite creativity, proper to the divine mind, which knows how to loosen the knots of human affairs, including the most complex and inscrutable”.[48] Creating a world in need of development, God in some way sought to limit himself in such a way that many of the things we think of as evils, dangers or sources of suffering, are in reality part of the pains of childbirth which he uses to draw us into the act of cooperation with the Creator.[49] God is intimately present to each being, without impinging on the autonomy of his creature, and this gives rise to the rightful autonomy of earthly affairs.[50] His divine presence, which ensures the subsistence and growth of each being, “continues the work of creation”.[51] The Spirit of God has filled the universe with possibilities and therefore, from the very heart of things, something new can always emerge: “Nature is nothing other than a certain kind of art, namely God’s art, impressed upon things, whereby those things are moved to a determinate end. It is as if a shipbuilder were able to give timbers the wherewithal to move themselves to take the form of a ship”.[52]
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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