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“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1130740253. Capernaum, Israel - December 21 2017: Church of the Beatitudes, a Roman Catholic church located by the Sea of Galilee near Tabgha and Capernaum in Israel.Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: gary yim
IMPORTANT NOTICE -
Stella Maris Catholic Church at Broadbeach will be closed for essential work on the ceiling from Monday, 13th February, until the 10th of March 2023. There will be no masses at the Stella (Broadbeach) church during that time period. Our apologies for the inconvenience, but the whole church will need to be closed as extensive scaffolding needs to be set up throughout the building. This is an important logistical project to fix the ceiling.
PASTOR’S POST - Tough Love
I am prepared to admit that I was a ‘young offender’. I once stole something. I was about six years old, and the stolen object was a Cherry Ripe, and to be technical, I didn’t really steal it. I paid for it in more ways than one; three days later when my mother asked me where it came from and where I got it, and where did I get the money to pay for it. Like the foolish criminal I was, I had not buried the evidence. What followed was worse than having to spend a few days in the ‘slammer’. I was required to return to the scene of the crime and admit to the owner of the said confection what I had done and pay double what it was worth. I’m happy to say it was the beginning and the end of my life of crime, and truthfully, I’ve had a shaky relationship with Cherry Ripes ever since. I’ve mused from time to time that if every potential criminal had to stand before their mother and admit their transgression, or better still my mother, then they would certainly reconsider their plans.
This reluctant admission comes following a recent discussion about the proliferation of youth crime recently reported on the Coast, but more generally across the state. Like many armchair observers, I listed off several possible causes and solutions but was quickly reminded that I have never had children, who invariably turn into teenagers, and my opinion was based on observing from a distance therefore, I didn’t understand the complexity of what factors are at play for young people and their parents in this present age. Guilty as charged.
This discussion involved a friend who is a district court judge who sees many of these young people appearing before him. He listed off many presenting issues, none of which was the only explanation, but all seemed to be a combination of factors, most of which began long before the person reached adolescence. It helped our discussion to reflect on the question,” What was different for us in our upbringing that we didn’t see that breaking the law was okay?” We couldn’t get away from the fact that someone, mostly our parents, taught us the meaning of consequences for our actions. Not an easy task these days, when young people have so many more influences on their daily lives than I can remember. So many attractive things seem to be on offer now, and the immature mind that does not understand any value or respect for others can simply say, “If I want it, then I can take it”.
It is incredibly challenging for parents to know where their teenage children are and who they are with at all times. The balance between trusting and protecting young people is very blurred. What are the indicators that they are ready to take greater responsibility for their own decisions, and when are they capable of accepting the consequences? It must be so difficult to try to save children from the harsh realities of life and, at the same time, teach them that to love them does not mean to excuse or justify their actions.
My friend pointed out the dilemma of sending teenagers to youth detention, where they mix with others who can show how to get better about not getting caught or can manipulate them into seeing that the law is their enemy. Punishment as a deterrent only seems to have an effect when people see that they have lost something they want or when they are deprived of freedom. For some unfortunate young people, detention offers them a greater sense of acceptance than they feel in their own homes.
It really is too easy just to blame parenting, but it’s not a bad place to start. Trying to instil an acceptance of valuing what we have, rather than wanting all the things that others might have, knowing the difference between needing and wanting and reminding children of any age that boredom is mostly found in boring people.
I’m not sure how to reach respect, but I do know that it involves time, honesty and perseverance to get it right, three of the most demanding qualities of parenthood. Loving and teaching your children at the same time can be so hard. Fr Peter Dillon PP
Becoming Catholic! A Journey of Faith
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
Rite of Acceptance
into the Order of Catechumens and Full Communion of Candidates
It is with great pleasure we welcome those Catechumens and Candidates who have commenced a journey of enquiry and faith towards Easter in 2023.
Catechumens – Andre De Melo, Nikki Miruzzi, and Seda Karauzumcu, are seeking Baptism
Candidates – Georgia Bull, Maria Torres Reyes, and Paula Littlechild are seeking Full Communion with the Catholic Church.
We will celebrate their Rite of Acceptance and Presentation of the Bible at the 5 pm Mass at Sacred Heart Church this Saturday, 21 January 2023, and invite all Parishioners of our Parish to pray for our Catechumens and Candidates during this journey to Easter as they come to know Jesus more deeply in their lives and to join us each week in celebrating the Mass.
We ask for many blessings on all who journey in faith and offer our support and prayers for you and your families during this time.
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 learning more about their Catholic faith as an adult, please contact Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, Clear Island Waters Q 4226. Phone: 5671 7388 surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
HOLY WATER IS BACK!
The Holy Water is back in the fonts in this parish. Please exercise discretion when using communal holy water, as there may still be some increased risks for people who have immunity issues or frail health. Holy Water recalls the saving and cleansing waters of our baptism into Christ and his death and resurrection to save us and renew us in his love. Please feel free to bless yourself with the Holy Water in the fonts. Please be aware that those who are more vulnerable to the effects of covid and other illnesses should exercise caution. Please keep safe and use the sacrament with discretion and awareness of your health needs. If you are in doubt, you can obtain a small bottle of holy water for your personal use. God bless.
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 of 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 suits your needs or bring something warm to put on. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY -
HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES FIRST RESPONDERS 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
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
A VOCATION VIEW: GIFTS OF PRICELESS VALUE
A child's handful of pulled dandelions will bring joy to a mother. A small act of kindness will surprise the lonely heart. Who will bring joy and kindness today? To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - TRUE GENEROSITY
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
The phrase “poor in spirit” can be confusing.Think of it in this sense – poor in spirit means depending on God’s providence and not depending on our own self-reliance. Being detached from earthy things (power, money, and comfort) and being attached to heavenly things (charity, sacrifice, and mercy). Denying ourselves from satisfying our desires and helping others obtain their basic needs.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: Claudia Maddocks, Margaret Buckingham, Nathan Lepp, Betty O’Connell, Margaret & George Cook, Geraldine Daniels, Diane & Steve Land, John & Molly Robinson, Peter Barry, Phil Bawden, Kath Kiely, Natalie O’Reilly, John Nathaniel Maher, Peter O’Brien, Betty Taylor, Rosie May Fisher, Denise Tracey, Millicent Monteiro, Sally Gage, Jean Di Benedetto, Sebastian Condon, Maria Manuela, Rogelio Rodriguez, Gus Reeves, Patrick Joven de Leon, Baby Samuel Timothy, Maria Yuna, Maria Teresa Gutierrez, Margaret Haerse, Annie Scicluna, Jo Clark, Kay Pitman, Michael Murtagh, Leslie Clarke, Lena Hiscock, Shirley Montford, Beryl Dorfield, Joanne Mooney, Patricia Roberts, John Thomas, Tom Ross, Joanne Parkes, Jack Barretto, Doug Chester, Kathy Stevens, Nellie Bellinger, Leslie Clarke, Kristy Peat, Anna Janiek, Andrew McPherson, Louise Holmes, Fred Grioli, Lynn Nunan, Elaine Casonati, Kim Parkes, Cecily Cellinan, Kevin Brennan, Margaret Cusack, Fabiola Menzs. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.
RECENTLY DECEASED: Donna Maria Cross, John Monahan, Dan Ziebarth, Clifford Archie Cowell, Yvonne Sheekey, Patrick O’Connell, Joseph Conti, Bernadette Hennessey, Maurice Stout, Baby Georgia Roberts-Farr, Teresa Duffy, Enzo Palmieri, Sylvia Sciberras, Manuel Dos Santos, John Mandile, Dell Bloomfield, Lionel Duggan, William Patrick, Konrad Dziurdziak, Constable Matthew Arnold, Constable Rachel McCrow, Alan Dare, Brian Quinlan, Maureen Jobling, Dao Jensen, Del Lange, Eleanor Wilson, Felix Grech, Maria Magdalena Bizzotto, Helen Margaret White, Dorothy Whiteman, Donald Greenwood, Paul Broughton, Jan Falk, Bernece Brown, David Joshua Maher, Michael Thomas Fitzgerald, Julio Enrique Astorga, Dr Michael Tracey, John Bastable, Jameal Tooma.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Exaltacion Santilla, Raelene Mavis Maroney, Susan Marie Hogan, Zvonimir Leopold Karlich, Jacqueline Feriel Rivet, Maria Beer, Ronda Jean Terese Hall, Anna Marinic, Berice May Flannery, David William Foster, Peter Capolupo, Teresa Jackson, Hilda O'Donnell, Jack O'Donnell, Patricia Mary Flori, Michael O'Brien, John Reid, Mercedes Rosario, Veronica Mary Moore, John David (Jack) Kelly, Brian Moon, Dolores Mary Barakat, Antoun Christophi and Terese Salama, Leslie (Les) Gloster Alford.
And also: Paul Anthony Zappa, Len Scully, Joe Habib, Maria Beer, Ivan Michael Clark, Albert Antonio Vosti, Johann Ofner, Trevor Raymond Kar, Kenneth Charles Emmerton, Kath Power, Peter Bernardi, Stan Hancock, Nicola Di Giannantonio, Gloria Klaasen, Susan-Gai Walsh, Margaret Anne Browning, Manuel Dos Santos, Armando Covino, Kenneth John (Ken) Maccheroni, Anne Elizabeth Carney, John Pascoe, Jeffrey Eric Fittler, Klaus Diga, Dr David Lee.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Blessed are the children—meek and otherwise
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land." (Matthew 5:1-12a). Children come in all sizes, shapes, and colours. They possess abilities, talents, and interests which may lie hidden for years to come. Not all young ones, to be sure, are properly described as meek. But it's certain that one day, the children will inherit the land. Preparing them for this vital task is the job of every grownup in their lives. This week we celebrate Catholic schools dedicated to assisting families in the education and formation of their children. Book learning is available at any school. Faith and character aren't always on the curriculum. Support our schools! - SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
MASK WEARING:
The risk of Flu and Covid virus is still present. There are quite a few vulnerable people in our community, so please consider using masks and hand sanitiser and reasonable social distancing where possible. This is still highly prudent. If you feel unwell, please stay home until you feel better.
The requirement to attend masses, even Holy Days of obligation, remains suspended.
No formal times for reconciliation are scheduled to ensure minimum crowd density. Venial sin is remitted by Eucharist, as also are acts of personal penance and contrition. Reconciliation is available by prior appointment - avoiding peak holiday times and Solemnities.
APPEAL FOR UKRAINE - In Ukraine. Find out more at: https://www.caritas.org.au/donate/ukraine-appeal/
A message from Aid to the Church in Need Australia: ACN is the Pontifical Foundation dedicated to supporting the suffering and persecuted Church.
Aid to the Church in Need is asking for support to aid sisters in Kenya in building a new mother house and formation centre for their local community. Hunger, illiteracy, and lack of medical provision, combined with desperately poor roads and a lack of clean drinking water, make life incredibly difficult for many people in Kenya. The diocesan congregation of the "Visitation Daughters of the Immaculate Heart" were established to help this needy population - but to continue their work, they need your help! The sisters' work includes caring for expectant mothers, acting as midwives, providing counselling, caring for the sick and looking after the elderly and orphans who are frequently abandoned by society. Your support will help these sisters to continue their mission by providing them with a permanent convent. To make an offering and learn more, please visit https://aidtochurch.org/monthlyproject or scan the Qr code.
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 (for Children in Year 3 or greater)
Within the Archdiocese of Brisbane, Confirmation is the second sacrament that children are invited to receive. Confirmation completes Baptism. The celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation for the Surfers Paradise Parish will be on the evening of October 20, 2023.
Includes compulsory meetings: 1. Parent Meeting – Either Tuesday, July 11 at 5:30pm Or Wednesday, July 12 at 5:30pm in Sacred Heart Church (Children are not required at this meeting but are welcome to attend if this assists with child minding.)
2. Final Meeting and Practice - Either Monday, October 9 at 5:30pm Or Tuesday, October 10 at 5:30pm in Sacred Heart Church (Child/ren and one adult are required to attend.)
For the celebration of Confirmation in 2023, parents of children in Year 3 or older (and who have been baptised) are invited to enrol their children in the continuing Sacramental Journey (Confirmation, then Eucharist and lastly, Reconciliation). The Sacramental Journey in our parish 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 for each child) is available at our website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au.
Once on the website, use the drop-down menu under Sacraments, then click on Confirmation; scroll down the page to the Children’s Sacramental Program Application Form. Next, please complete the orange and red form and click Submit. You will receive an automated email indicating that your form has been received. In Term 2, 2023, you will receive an email from our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, providing further details regarding the required meetings and documentation.
Please continue regularly checking the parish newsletter for Confirmation updates and further information.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION (for Children in Year 4 or greater)
Either May 28 at 11:00 am or June 4 at 11:00 am, 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 addition to completing the At Home Preparation Program for First Communion, there are two compulsory meetings: 1. Parent Meeting – Either Monday, March 27 at 5:30pm Or Tuesday, March 28 at 5:30pm in Sacred Heart Church (Children are not required at this meeting but are welcome to attend if this assists with child minding.) 2. Final Meeting and Practice – Either Monday, May 22nd at 5:30pm or Tuesday, May 23rd at 5:30pm (Child/ren and one adult are required to attend.)
First Holy Communion for those who were confirmed in Surfers Paradise Parish in 2022 These children are welcome to join our 2023 group. To ensure that each of these children is included in the group for Preparation for First Holy Communion in 2023, we ask that parents email their interest, as soon as possible, to our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au
First Holy Communion for those new to our parish in 2023...
Parents of children in Year 4 or greater who have been baptised and confirmed elsewhere are invited to enrol their children in the continuing Sacramental Journey (Baptism, Confirmation, First Holy Communion and Reconciliation) with Surfers Paradise Parish. 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 the Children’s Sacramental Program Application Form. Next, please complete the orange and red form and click Submit. You will receive an automated email indicating that your form has been received. In the next month, you will also receive an email from our Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au providing further details regarding meetings and documentation concerning our At Home Preparation Program.
We ask that all families continue checking the parish newsletter regularly for First Holy Communion updates and further information. The Surfers Paradise Parish newsletter is available at our website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au
Sacrament of PENANCE - RECONCILIATION November 9 at 5:30 pm, 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.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
This weekend, we hear the wonderful Beatitudes….. (You can imagine and visualise Our Lord teaching this message on a cool, breezy day on a steep mountain, where there is a beautiful natural amphitheatre running down to the Sea of Galilee –- In Jerusalem, the site traditionally held to be the place of the sermon on the Mount, is a magnificent and peaceful setting).
In the Beatitudes reading, ………..the first of the “blessed’s” (and arguably the key to all of the others .. and a key to an enormously significant cornerstone to Christ’s gospel…..is this….. Blessed are those who know they are spiritually poor. (the Greek word here is really powerful….. It doesn’t just mean having to work with not much backing… it means someone destitute… crouching or cowering… with no support at all……) That is, when we admit our absolute need for God and (let go of our “ego” and surrender the idea of complete self-sufficiency) then we are truly open to the Kingdom of God and the Gospel of Our Lord. ……// In so many instances in the Scriptures… and we see it so many times in our lives too… how often do pride and ego get in the road of harmony and goodwill? How much damage do pride and ego do, and how often? (I have taken of recent years, whenever I feel tempted to have hurt feelings over something, to pray to God to heal my pride and my ego.. which can be a trap for any of us – it is almost counter-intuitive, but I find whenever I recognising my lowliness, my need, my poverty of spirit is strangely liberating, and “takes the wind out” of so many unnecessary worries and hurts and turns me back to God’s grace and the support and sharing of those around me.
The second reading backs this message up completely… Saint Paul says to the corinthians.. “can’t you see… most of you in Corinth are not the rich and famous or the powerful and influential… you are looked down on by earthly society as being nothing special. But God is using those who know they have “not much” to commend; because they are utterly open and receptive to the message and invitation of God’s kingdom….
God is using the weak and those who are not wise by earthly standards to shame human wisdom! Christ taught us that it is very challenging for the “self-sufficient,” “influential,” the “rich,” or the “self-righteous” to detach themselves from these earthly support structures and put their hope and trust entirely in God’s grace and love. (The only thing that lasts – the only thing that will not fail). The poor and needy do it instinctively, for they simply must throw themselves on God’s mercy. As they have been given nothing much else to help them…
Jesus teaches us in this same sermon that whenever we recognise the dignity, uniqueness, different needs and qualities of all others – and have empathy for others….. When we notice and feel for the pain of others…. // To all who deeply care about the feelings of people around them and take their needs and feelings into consideration in our decisions and actions…Blessed are you! For you are acting as Christ acts.
Whenever we show “ever-more-deeper” gentleness, kindness, and reverence to others, even when we might not agree on every issue, we become more and more Christ-like.
Blessed are they who long for the fullness of goodness and justice;… the way a starving person hungers for food…. The way someone thirsty craves desperately for water……. They shall have their thirst quenched…. They who long for fairness and justice and want the "whole thing"… this is the person who knows it is not enough to be satisfied with a partial good. Blessed is the one who hungers and thirsts for the goodness which is complete. This is not the same as unrealistic and picky perfectionism - For such a person desires not cold and heartless self-righteousness or superiority, but neither would they settle for an insincere outward show of ”pretend warm-heartedness” or goodness – but they long for the “real thing” to show true kindness and warm compassion, in all circumstances; -- which is to be found by God’s grace alone…. -….
And peacemakers, “re-builders” and ‘repairers” -- people of forgiveness - who do not repay hurt for hurt … but rather return compassion and concern and pierced-sorrow, in the face of wrongs done to them or others…. Blessed are those who can Forgive (looking upon hurt and mistakes like a loving parent looks upon the hurts caused by the child they simply could never stop loving). and may we also accept forgiveness…And be honest and constructive, always working for peace and harmony.
Something that “would make forgiveness and tolerance ever so much easier is one principle in life which we can sometimes lose sight of: - “There is always a reason why a person thinks and acts as they do. It may not make much sense to us, but there is some reason…. It may not always appear to be a good reason…. But if we knew the reasons people do what they do, it would be so much easier to understand and sympathise and forgive. A French saying that sums this up: “to know all, is to forgive all” - Or, as the novel War and Peace said, “the old man forgave much because he understood much.” We admit that we only know things partially… and only God knows everything… which is why God is so very kind and merciful.
And finally,.. The Lord encourages and gives a new heart to all who do good, even when they are ridiculed or opposed for it… Stand strong, the Lord says, you will be proved to be on the right path…. God’s path….. and you will be satisfied in full.
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW. Volume I. (Chapters 1 to 10). REVISED EDITION. Translated with an Introduction and Interpretation by WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS. PHILADELPHIA. Revised Edition Copyright (c) 1975; Sharing The Word Through The Liturgical Year. by Gustavo Gutiérrez. Published by Orbis Books ( November 1st 1997); http://biblehub.com/interlinear/matthew/4.htm; Strong’s biblical concordance and greek definitions: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?t=kjv&strongs=g2424 and other related Strong’s Greek links.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 2072383031. Hand lettering Blessed are the peacemakers. Modern background. Poster. Motivational quote. Modern calligraphy. Christian poster -Important information. Release information: Signed property release on file with Shutterstock, Inc. Vector Formats. Vector Contributor: Olga Gold
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
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
(view of The Sea of Galilee from Mount Beatitudes)
January 28 - M - Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest and doctor of the Church
There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship. - Thomas Aquinas
If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever.
Man cannot live without joy; therefore, when he is deprived of true spiritual joys, it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.
We can't have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards, we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.
It is requisite for the relaxation of the mind that we make use, from time to time, of playful deeds and jokes.
If, then, you are looking for the way by which you should go, take Christ because He is the way.
Love takes up where knowledge leaves off.
For a war to be just, three things are necessary. First, the authority of the sovereign. Secondly, a just cause. Thirdly, a rightful intention.
To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them.
All the efforts of the human mind cannot exhaust the essence of a single fly.
Well-ordered self-love is right and natural.
By nature, all people are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments
Justice is a certain rectitude of mind whereby a man does what he ought to do in the circumstances confronting him.
Reason in man is rather like God in the world.
The knowledge of God is the cause of things. For the knowledge of God is to all creatures what the knowledge of the artificer is to things made by his art.
To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
The things that we love tell us what we are.
Better to illuminate than merely to shine, to deliver to others contemplated truths than merely to contemplate.
Wonder is the desire for knowledge.
Because we cannot know what God is, but only what He is not, we cannot consider how He is but only how He is not.
To bear with patience wrongs done to oneself is a mark of perfection, but to bear with patience wrongs done to someone else is a mark of imperfection and even of actual sin.
Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion.
A man has free choice to the extent that he is rational. -
The truth of our faith becomes a matter of ridicule among the infidels if any Catholic, not gifted with the necessary scientific learning, presents as dogma what scientific scrutiny shows to be false.
How is it they live in such harmony with the billions of stars - when most people can barely go a minute without declaring war in their minds about someone they know?
Not everything more difficult is more meritorious.
Three things are necessary for the salvation of man: to know what he ought to believe, to know what he ought to desire, and to know what he ought to do.
Good can exist without evil, whereas evil cannot exist without good.
Friendship is the source of the greatest pleasures, and without friends, even the most agreeable pursuits become tedious.
The highest manifestation of life consists in this: that a being governs its own actions. A thing that is always subject to the direction of another is somewhat of a dead thing.
Happiness is secured through virtue; it is a good attained by man's own will.
Most people seem to live according to sense rather than reason.
Three conditions are necessary for Penance: contrition, which is sorrow for sin, together with a purpose of amendment; confession of sins without any omission; and satisfaction through good works.
If forgers and malefactors are put to death by the secular power, there is much more reason for excommunicating and even putting to death one convicted of heresy.Share this Quote
Law is nothing other than a certain ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by the person who has the care of the community.
Pray thee, spare, thyself at times: for it becomes a wise man sometimes to relax the high pressure of his attention to work.
Clearly the person who accepts the Church as an infallible guide will believe whatever the Church teaches.
How can we live in harmony? First, we need to know we are all madly in love with the same God.
It is possible to demonstrate God's existence, although not a priori, yet a posteriori from some work of His more surely known to us.
Law; an ordinance of reason for the common good, made by him who has care of the community.
Sorrow can be alleviated by good sleep, a bath and a glass of wine.
Every judgement of conscience, be it right or wrong, be it about things evil in themselves or morally indifferent, is obligatory, in such wise that he who acts against his conscience always sins.
Beware of the person of one book.
Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.
January 31 - M - Saint John Bosco, priest and religious founder. A love that works
At the height of the Industrial Revolution, impoverished Italian boys were drawn to the city of Turin in search of factory work. But, for many reasons, they fell on hard times and were often jailed. Saint John Bosco helped them with lodging, education, vocational training, and just plain patience and loving care. He also protected young workers from unscrupulous employers by crafting signed apprenticeship agreements—the first real employment contracts used in Europe. He revolutionised the work of educators, too, writing: “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education. If you want to be loved … you must love yourselves and make your children feel that you love them.”
“Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”
FEB 2 - The Presentation of the Lord
Make a perfect offering of your life
Today’s feast marks an ancient Jewish tradition in which the firstborn child was “consecrated to the Lord” by way of two sacrificial turtledoves or young pigeons offered at the Temple 40 days after birth. The mother, considered ritually unclean after giving birth, was also purified on this same day. But the visit of Mary and Joseph to present the infant Jesus is unique, marked by an outpouring of prophecy. Simon and Anna testify that light has come into the world and that salvation is at hand. We honour the link to ancient tradition as we celebrate the Presentation today, but we also appreciate how Jesus not only fulfils but surpasses all the traditions of his time and place. Here at last is the perfect offering.
“The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him.”
FEB3 - - Saint Ansgar, bishop (801-865)
“If I were worthy of such a favour from my God, I would ask that He grant me this one miracle –that by His grace, He would make of me a good man.” Saint Ansgar to a parishioner who was praising him for being a miracle worker.
FEB3 - m - Saint Blase, bishop and martyr
Be a healing light
The historical details of Saint Blaise’s fourth-century life in what is now modern-day Turkey are lost in the shroud of the centuries, but the tradition of his healing powers endures. The healing of throat diseases is what is most ascribed to him. When Blaise was imprisoned during a persecution of Christians, he apparently healed a choking boy with the aid of candles that lit his dark cell. On another level, the enduring tradition speaks to the ongoing need for healing that we all share. Whether it be a physical ailment or a wounded soul that needs tending, say a prayer today to Saint Blaise, the keeper of the flame.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation. Your presence, O LORD, I seek.”
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POPE FRANCIS: (From Amoris Laetitia)
POST-SYNODAL APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION AMORIS LÆTITIA OF THE HOLY FATHER, FRANCIS
(19 March, the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, in the year 2016).
The Kenyan Bishops have observed that "many [young people] concentrate on their wedding day and forget the life-long commitment they are about to enter into". They need to be
encouraged to see the sacrament not as a single moment that then becomes a part of the past and its memories, but rather as a reality that permanently influences the whole of married life. {215)
In the home, decisions cannot be made unilaterally, since each spouse shares responsibility for the family; yet each home is unique and each marriage will find an arrangement that works best. (220)
Young married couples should be encouraged to develop a routine that gives a healthy sense of closeness and stability through shared daily rituals. These could include a morning kiss, an evening blessing, waiting at the door to welcome each other home, taking trips together and sharing household chores. Yet it also helps to break the routine with a party and to enjoy family celebrations of anniversaries and special events. (226)
In some cases, one of the spouses is not baptised or does not want to practice the faith. This can make the other's desire to live and grow in the Christian life difficult and at times painful. Love is always a gift from God. (228)
Parishes, movements, schools and other Church institutions can help in a variety of ways to support families and help them grow. These might include meetings of couples living in the same neighbourhood, brief retreats for couples; talks by experts, and workshops for parents with troubled children. (229)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Royalty-free stock photo ID: 1257114043 - Stock Photo ID: 1257114043
Vatican City, May 23, 2018: Pope Francis has a selfie taken with members and players of the Clericus Cup, a soccer tournament between Roman Catholic colleges at the end of his weekly general audience. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: AM113
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Arrived this week, beautiful children’s Bible stories, also Baptism Bibles for Boys and Girls.
Catholic Prayers and Devotions, St Paul’s Sunday Missals and St Paul’s Weekday Missals
There are still a few copies available of the Daily Mass Book produced by Liturgy Brisbane.
The first edition for 2023 of the Catholic Leader will be available as from next weekend, only $4
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 3rd February at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40
First Saturday Mass and Benediction
at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am the 4th of February. Followed by adoration and Benediction. This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary.
PARISH BINGO MORNING TEA
Hosted by the Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies.
Our first Bingo Morning for 2023 will be on the Thursday 16th February, 10am-2pm. We have moved the Bingo Morning Tea to the 3rd Thursday of each
month for the balance of 2023. Admission $20.00 which includes 1 Bingo Card, Raffle Tickets, Door Prizes Morning tea and Lunch. We Welcome New Parishioners as well as our current Parishioners who have not come for this function. Please ring Maxine Sela 0421051193, or Wendy Webb 0412237832, if you are coming.
MARIAN VALLEY BUS
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church for the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on the 13.02.2023. The bus will be picking up at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
BIBLE STUDY
My name is Ashley, and with the blessing of Father Peter I would like to initiate a bible study/prayer group here at the Surfers Paradise Parish, locally at St Vincent’s Church.
This will initially be on a trial period, and prayerfully if successful, we should be able to continue with this group indefinitely.
I was involved with a similar bible study prayer group at the Ipswich Catholic Parish where Father Peter was one of the priests that allowed that prayer group to participate and continue with this bible study/ prayer group.
I had facilitated the bible study prayer group for several years before moving down here to Surfers Paradise recently, and I dearly miss having the fellowship with the people of that community.
We will be reading/studying Break Open the Word once a week on a Friday evening from 5 pm to 6 pm commencing on Friday 10th February, please keep this important date in mind. When studying “Break Open the Word” this helped me to remember the readings for the upcoming Sunday service and to enjoy fellowship with other Catholics.
There will be questions about what we will be reading. In the end, we will all leave the study session being like-minded, and what I look forward too is to seeing if we are on the same page regarding what the priests will be talking about/reflecting on with the readings that we studied on the previous Friday evening. Thank you once again. Ashley - Keys 0409840693
WANTED: Carer to share a house with an elderly lady in a retirement village at Nerang.
Companion for her and to be around for a night for peace of mind - since losing her husband on Boxing Day. Free rent - in exchange for care and companionship, mainly from late afternoon to morning. We have daytime carers set up, so it's not a full-time role. Contact Steve Wisby at 0418751637.
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 is
30/1/2023 Blanche Braganza & Family - Benowa
6/2/2023 Blanche Braganza & Family - Benowa
ART AND CRAFT GROUP -
The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays from 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.
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB-
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 at 5538 8821 or Mob at 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.
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP (Resumes 31 January 2023)
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 at 0428090703.
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 well-being. 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.
https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/
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 abusing children or vulnerable adults.
SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF POPE FRANCIS’ GROUNDBREAKING LETTER - LAUDATO SI’ - An excerpt from the Pope’s groundbreaking Encyclical.
II. CULTURAL ECOLOGY
143. Together with the patrimony of nature, there is also a historic, artistic and cultural patrimony which is likewise under threat. This patrimony is a part of the shared identity of each place and a foundation upon which to build a habitable city. It is not a matter of tearing down and building new cities, supposedly more respectful of the environment yet not always more attractive to live in. Rather, there is a need to incorporate the history, culture and architecture of each place, thus preserving its original identity. Ecology, then, also involves protecting the cultural treasures of humanity in the broadest sense. More specifically, it calls for greater attention to local cultures when studying environmental problems, favouring a dialogue between scientific-technical language and the language of the people. Culture is more than what we have inherited from the past; it is also, and above all, a living, dynamic and participatory present reality, which cannot be excluded as we rethink the relationship between human beings and the environment.
144. A consumerist vision of human beings, encouraged by the mechanisms of today’s globalized economy, has a levelling effect on cultures, diminishing the immense variety which is the heritage of all humanity. Attempts to resolve all problems through uniform regulations or technical interventions can lead to overlooking the complexities of local problems which demand the active participation of all members of the community. New processes taking shape cannot always fit into frameworks imported from outside; they need to be based in the local culture itself. As life and the world are dynamic realities, so our care for the world must also be flexible and dynamic. Merely technical solutions run the risk of addressing symptoms and not the more serious underlying problems. There is a need to respect the rights of peoples and cultures, and to appreciate that the development of a social group presupposes a historical process that takes place within a cultural context and demands the constant and active involvement of local people from within their proper culture. Nor can the notion of the quality of life be imposed from without, for quality of life must be understood within the world of symbols and customs proper to each human group.
145. Many intensive forms of environmental exploitation and degradation not only exhaust the resources which provide local communities with their livelihood but also undo the social structures that, for a long time, shaped cultural identity and their sense of the meaning of life and community. The disappearance of a culture can be just as serious, or even more serious, than the disappearance of a species of plant or animal. The imposition of a dominant lifestyle linked to a single form of production can be just as harmful as the altering of ecosystems.
146. In this sense, it is essential to show special care for indigenous communities and their cultural traditions. They are not merely one minority among others but should be the principal dialogue partners, especially when large projects affecting their land are proposed. For them, the land is not a commodity but rather a gift from God and from their ancestors who rest there, a sacred space with which they need to interact if they are to maintain their identity and values. When they remain on their land, they themselves care for it best. Nevertheless, in various parts of the world, pressure is being put on them to abandon their homelands to make room for agricultural or mining projects which are undertaken without regard for the degradation of nature and culture.
LOOKING FORWARD: 2023-2025
The celebration of an ordinary Jubilee, (the next of which is 2025), entails years of preparation because of the demands involved in such an event. In these years of preparation, it is especially important to provide the particular Churches scattered throughout the world with tools that foster pastoral care that will most effectively convey the dynamic momentum necessary so that the Jubilee can be a truly ecclesial event that sustains faith and is a precursor for evangelisation.
Pope Francis has asked that these two years leading up to the Jubilee be focused on particular themes.
The year 2023 will be devoted to revisiting the fundamental topics of the four Constitutions so that the Church can breathe anew the profound and timely teaching produced by Vatican II, whose 60th anniversary will be celebrated on October 11th, 2023. For this reason, a series of user-friendly resources, written in an appealing language, are being produced to arouse curiosity in those who have no memory of the event and to help them enter into the essence of the Council to discover the innovative longing that enabled the Church to enter the third millennium of its history consciously.
https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/it/logo.html
https://www.exaudi.org/jubilee-2025/
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 our Indigenous people's memories, traditions, culture and hopes. We pay tribute to those who have contributed to the community's life in many ways. We affirm our commitment to justice, healing, and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
(see further: The Kombumerri People and https://kombumerritogetherproject.com/digital-resources/yugambeh-language/)
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety …….
See overleaf…….
