PDF version of this parish newsletter here: here
You can also access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
You can also access an online copy of the newsletter *here*
“I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live” (John 11:25)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 1222382473 - Biblical vector illustration series, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. Vector Formats. Vector Contributor: rudall30
SPECIAL SECOND RITE OF RECONCILIATION
Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. The second Rite of reconciliation is at 6 pm on Thursday, March 30th. All Welcome.
PASTOR’S POST -THE BEER GARDEN GOD.
One of our newest parishioners is a Loreto Sister, Lis Keane, who I have known for many years now; having the joy of working with her when we are both at the Southport parish. Over her many years (no number mentioned) as a nun, Lis has worked as a teacher, pastoral associate, prison chaplain, choir director, and liturgist, all the while using her great talents of realism, compassion and humour. Recently she shared the following reflection with me, and it was too good to keep it to myself.
At Christmas, for as long as I can remember, I have sat under the mango trees in the front garden of my family home, enjoying the company of family members and telling stories. While she was alive, my mother would be central in the telling of yarns and anecdotes. We would laugh our way through Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, joined by the occasional mosquito, with the family dogs flopped at our feet. Those many hours spent under the mango trees were sacred times.
Those gathered broke open stories – factual and fictional – and every nuance in between. The fish got bigger, the road longer, and the teenage girlfriend more beautiful as the years went by. We graduated from XXXX Gold to Hahn Light, and I remember one Christmas when someone had a glass of wine. They were ‘beer garden times.’
In Australian culture, the pub looms large. As a young person, I can remember the pub being characterised by the private bar, the public bar and the beer garden.
Both the private and public bars were exclusive but for very different reasons. The private bar had its dress codes, and loud behaviour was not welcome, nor were certain racial or other stereotypical groups. There was a time when the public bar was very male-dominated; women were not welcome, nor were many minority groups.
But the beer garden was a different story. The beer garden was relaxed. Families were more welcome, women felt at home, and groups could gather and break open stories.
We can use this analogy to look at how we approach spirituality. I am saddened when people look for God only in heightened moments or overtly religious occasions. They walk away from the faith when they don’t find God there. So often, we look for God in exclusive ‘private bar’ times and places. We look for a God more at home in a pin-striped suit than under a mango tree.
Too often, we look for the thunderclap God or the God of incense, thuribles and choir singing.Our God can be found and celebrated there, too but, for most of us, our God will be found in the ‘ordinary’ – in the everyday. As Fr Richard Rohr says: ‘God comes to us disguised as our lives!’
Mine is a Beer Garden God; the God of the story, the God of the ordinary, the God of the little moments, the painful moments, the joy-filled moments, the speechless, awestruck moments, the boring moments – any moment that is love in its thousand faces and equally as many disguises!I often refer to these beer garden times as the’ small g’ times – the small ‘god’ times. All are welcome in the beer garden and with the Beer Garden God, regardless of colour or creed.
The beer garden and its God are places of round tables, where there is no first nor last, no top nor bottom, no important, less important or more important.
My God comes to the round tables of life, takes off his sandals, takes a towel, and washes the dirty, dusty feet of the ordinary in the ordinary moments of life. And then what does this Beer Garden God do? He shares stories and invites stories. So at the tables of life, our God whispers to our hearts: ‘I love you – just as you are.’And our God smiles at those gathered around round tables, laughs at the stories shared and cries with the broken one, and sits in silence in moments of awe or pain. Don’t go looking for a big God or an angry God.
No – become small, become silent, become aware – and then with eyes wide open and hearts truly open – be surprised at your Beer Garden God in the small and ordinary moments of your sacred life!
Fr Peter Dillon PP.
Stations of the Cross each Friday of Lent at 6 pm at Sacred Heart Church, 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. Every Friday of Lent. (Not Good Friday eve)
NEEDED - PALM LEAVES (BIG AND SMALL)
FOR PALM SUNDAY.
Anyone who has a supply of Palm leaves (big or small), please consider dropping them off at the parish office (Wednesday or Thursday this week between 9 am and 12 noon or Friday before 9:30 am. Green Palms only. Please, no dead palms.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION CANCELLED DUE TO GOOD FRIDAY ON 7TH APRIL
NOTICE FOR HOLY WEEK AND EASTER - 6th April-9th April 2023
WELCOME TO FR BERNIE GALLAGHER
Fr Bernie Gallagher is a new parishioner as he has now moved here to live following his retirement. You are very welcome here, Fr Bernie and we are delighted to have your assistance. Fr Bernie shares his story:
Fr. Bernard Gallagher.
In the late 1980s, my mother, Molly Gallagher, purchased a unit in Mermaid Beach. She always loved coming to the Gold Coast and was really excited about having a place here. Her plans to retire here were thwarted by ill health and early death. I have been a visitor here over the past 35 years, and now I am a parishioner and happy to help out when our priests, Fathers Peter and Paul, need me.
If I might give a brief timeline of my appointments in the Archdiocese of Brisbane since I was ordained in 1969:
1970 -1974 St Agnes Mt. Gravatt, Brisbane;
1975-1977 St Stephen’s Cathedral, Brisbane and Secretary to Archbishop Rush;
1978-79 St. Mary’s, Beaudesert;
1980-1991 St. Maximilian Kolbe, Kingston/Marsden, Logan City;
1991-2013 St. Mary’s, Beaudesert;
2014-2022 Banyo/Nundah, Brisbane.
I grew up in Brisbane and was educated by the Good Samaritan Sisters at Enoggera and Mitchelton and the Christian Brothers at Gregory Terrace. I was a seminarian at St. Pius XII Seminary, Banyo, from 1963-1969.
I used to play a lot of golf but am a much happier man since I gave it up! I enjoy walking and reading. I’m presently reading ‘The Good People’ by Hannah Kent.
I look forward to meeting fellow parishioners and being part of the life of the church here in Surfers Paradise.
REST IN PEACE, JOHN SATTLER
Beloved parishioner John Sattler has passed away after a long illness. John was well-known and loved in the parish, and his smiling, friendly presence was always deeply appreciated.
John’s legendary career as a four times premiership-winning captain of the South Sydney Rabbitohs and a national representative in Rugby League inspired many. He was also a true gentleman and a wonderful and generous friend to many. He will be remembered with love. He was a man of faith and regularly worshipped here within the parish. May the Lord welcome him into the eternal Kingdom of Heaven. John’s funeral is 11 am Sacred Heart - Friday 31st March.
VALE PAUL FITZGERALD -
Paul Fitzgerald, a very active parishioner for many years, passed away on the 10th of March, 2023, in Melbourne. Paul was a Pastoral Counselor with strong leadership in Stewardship, Evangelisation Paul and Maureen (dec) loved a party and helped with many social events. They were involved in Parish BBQs, Multicultural Events, and Major celebrations. Paul’s connections with the Arts Centre allowed the parish to host many memorable parties, including Fr Dan’s 60th, a parish dance and the celebration of Fr John Echewodo’s ordination. Sadly Maureen passed away after a short illness in December 2015. Paul moved to Southport parish for a year before moving to Melbourne to be with his family.
This article was in a recent edition of the Friends of the Arts Foundation:
Paul Fitzgerald, a previous President of the Friends of the Gold Coast Arts Centre, passed away peacefully in Melbourne overnight on the 9th/10th of March 2023 after a short illness. His many friends on the Gold Coast will miss him, especially considering his advocacy for the Gold coast Arts Centre that evolved into HOTA.
During Paul's presidency, he established a personal friendship with the Gold Coast Arts Centre Board Chairman, Mr Kerry Watson. He developed a close, collaborative relationship between the respective boards. This relationship proved helpful when the then-CEO of the Council sought to use land earmarked to expand the Arts Centre to consolidate Council staff at Evandale.
With the help of The Friends, Kerry and his board were able to defeat the consolidation proposal, thus paving the way for the construction of HOTA.
His funeral will be held on Friday, 31st March. St Cecilia's Church, 37 Hillside Pde, Glen Innes, Victoria.
Project Compassion - run by Caritas - Together, we can help vulnerable communities face their challenges today and build a better tomorrow For All Future Generations.
It must be difficult for somebody who has never experienced love to understand the Gospels. They are so full of different emotions, many of them tender. Just think of the beautiful reconciliation between Jesus and Peter after the resurrection. Jesus allows Peter to say that he loves him on no less than three occasions. Thankfully, most of us can write down a long list of people we have loved and also of those who have loved us. Many names would appear on both lists! We keep a special place in our hearts and prayers for the people we know who have died. Even after a long time, their memory will still bring a tear to our eyes. That sorrow comes from a place of deep gratitude. God changes the world one heart at a time.
When we encounter today’s Gospel, the story of the raising of Lazarus, we are in a world of emotion. Martha and Mary are grieving for their brother. Jesus loves these two women. Thomas, the twin, is full of bravado and bluster, just as he was later when he wanted proof of the resurrection. Both Martha and Mary are disappointed, even angry, that Jesus has not come sooner. Jesus weeps at the grave of his friend.
The mourners who have come to comfort the family must also have been sensitive to the situation. When Jesus says "I am the resurrection and the life’" he is not explaining an
idea. He is responding to the deepest longings of our hearts, as he always does. Today’s Psalm reminds us ‘My soul is longing for the Lord more than the watcher for daybreak.’
Over the last few weeks we have shared some of the stories presented to us by Caritas Australia to make us more aware of the inspirational work we can support through Project Compassion. There have been stories from Zimbabwe, Vietnam, Nepal and First Australians. Through your generosity, Caritas Australia can support partners in 18 different countries. These are all people who, not unlike Lazarus, are longing to be unbound and set free. The Gospel calls us to believe in the Life to which Jesus invites us; that Life is built on justice and compassion.
Project Compassion brings together Australian schools, parishes and supporters to raise funds for people in vulnerable communities across the world. This year, we introduced you to the story of four inspiring people whose lives have been transformed with your generous support: Laxmi, Tereesa, Priscilla and Thu.
Today, they are creating a better world for their families, their communities and for all future generations.
Project Compassion is a demonstration of the faith, empathy and generosity of our supporters. It is the lifeblood of Caritas Australia – without it, we could not do the vital work we do. Thank you for helping transform lives today and for all future generations.
Project Compassion is Caritas Australia’s main annual fundraising campaign. It mobilises Australians to raise much-needed funds to help alleviate poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity in the most marginalised communities in the world.
Spanning across the six weeks of Lent each year, Project Compassion brings thousands of Australian schools, parishes and supporters together to stand in solidarity with people living in vulnerable communities across Asia, Africa, the Pacific and with First Nations people in Australia.
Project Compassion is a demonstration of the faith, empathy and generosity of our supporters. It is the lifeblood of Caritas Australia – without it, we could not do the vital work that we do.
The theme of Project Compassion is For All Future Generations. This year, we focus on the stories of four remarkable, resilient people from Nepal, Zimbabwe, Vietnam and Australia. Each of these stories demonstrates the powerful impact that each one of us can have For All Future Generations.
PRAYER OF INTERCESSION for Lent.
We give thanks for all the people who fill our lives with love. We pray for all those who do not feel loved, especially those who have yet to appreciate the depth of God’s love. May our support for Project Compassion be a sign to others of the love of God for all people.
You can donate through Project Compassion donation boxes and envelopes available from your parish by visiting https://www.caritas.org.au/
by calling 1800 024 413.
SACRED HEART CUPPA AFTER 9 am Mass Sundays -
We are asking for more people to help with a roster. More people could allow a roster of looking after the cuppa once every two months. Mary Ann Boehme and her friends will coordinate the roster, training and communication and check that each week is covered.
Please contact the office so we can put you in touch with Mary Ann and the team. Our Hospitality team.
Becoming Catholic! A Journey of Faith
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
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 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.
You are most welcome to join us.
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
FANS and DOORS in OUR CHURCHES
DURING CHURCH SERVICES - FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING the HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON PLEASE AND DOORS TO BE LEFT OPEN PLEASE 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:
Seeing physically dead people return to life is not a common event. But Christians, serious about their vocation, are eager to help the "down and out" find new meaning in Christ and live a full life.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - Appearances
“Jesus said to her, ‘Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?’” JOHN 11:40
Many of us say that we believe in God. We attend Sunday Mass and participate in parish events. But when life gets hard and the pressure is on, when things aren’t going our way, do we really believe? Do we really put our trust in the Lord? When we live a life of gratitude, recognising all that we have been given, we really do see that God is providing for our needs. Living a grateful and generous life allows us to see God’s active presence in our daily lives, and we become “partakers of the divine nature.”
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: Tim Brown, John O’Hanlon, Jenny Haines, Annie Scicluna, Paul Thomas Hawkins, Lois Wood, Phil McWilliam, Coralie Brennan, Kim Ingram, Karen Vestergard, John Thomas, Pat Jones, Felipe S Cataquiz Sr, 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, 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, Jo Clark, Kay Pitman, Michael Murtagh, Leslie Clarke, Lena Hiscock, Shirley Montford, Beryl Dorfield, Joanne Mooney, Patricia Roberts, 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, Kim Parkes, Cecily Cellinan, Kevin Brennan, Margaret Cusack, Fabiola Menzs.
RECENTLY DECEASED: John William Sattler, Paul Fitzgerald, Elsden Smith, Bernardo Cass Nopra, Anna Szeremeta, Elizabeth Mary McKinstry, Millicent Dawn Shaw, Helen Bruce, Peter Allsop, Frank Murray, Patricia Maxine O’Donoghue, Bernardo Cas Nopre (Canada), Virginia Attard, Marjorie Doyle, Beverley Dreier, Millicent Monteiro, Cecily Culligan, Nicholas Eamon Ashworth, Marie Patricia “Pat” Sullivan, Graciela del Carmen Chapman, Betty McKinstry, Anna Szeremeta, Alan Hague, Marie Kuljanic, Graham Stafford, Derek Carpenter, Peter Evert, Cheryl Hamwood, Donna Maria Cross, John Monahan, Dan Ziebarth, Yvonne Sheekey, Patrick O’Connell, Joseph Conti, Sr. Regina (Rita) Keyes, Elaine Casonati.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: Mary Cooper, Vizma Mudite Barrett, Joyce Hunt, Peter Schreck, Margaret Kelly, Giuseppa Mauceri, Josephine Desira, Jessie Veronica (Veronica) Dolan, Ted Wales, Catherine Mitchell (Tompson), John Donelly Shiels, Peter Wayne Borg, Helma Martina Anna van Camp, Ben Thomas Hamlett, Iris Scharenguivel, Byron Schreiber, Pamela Barry (Pam) Braithwaite, Franciska Knap, Glen Anthony (Tony) McLeod, Malcolm Thompson, Barry Edwards, Rufina Lim, Alfred John Serafim Zerafa, Brian Anthony Fawell, Ricardo Joseph Herft, Gerald Peter Henderson, Patricia Brigid Flanagan, Connie Devlin, Marie Therese Haney, Alexander Redler, Anthony Robert Meehan, Lynn Maree Blond, Mary Briffa, Fay Margaret Frances Lincoln, Paul Avery.
And also: Bozidar Ovcaric, Devassy Kutty, Mary Maher, John Anthony O'Leary, Annunziata (Tina) Morabito, Maurice McNamara, Mr John Lawrence Maher, Vera Ryan, Noeline Patricia Sisam, Silvio de Vito, Sheila Irene Asher, Jack Phythian, Bernadette Mary Bartley, Anthony Onofaro, Angelita Javillonar, Earl Francis Alexander Brierty, James Vincent (Jim) Daly, Vilma Mary Vaughan, Martin Tadj, Claudette Bernadette Strode, Desmond Robert Castle, Pietro Ulliana, John Lawrence (Brewy) Brew, Hans Schroeder.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH Hints of resurrection.
While the Hebrew scripture written before Jesus lived doesn’t explicitly speak of resurrection in the same way it is talked about after Jesus is raised from the dead, there are certainly rumours and whispers. Perhaps the most explicit references are in chapter 37 of Ezekiel, where God, working through the prophet, raises a valley of dry bones to new life and promises to restore them to the promised land after their captivity in Babylon centuries before Christ. Saint Jerome called the vision of the valley of bones a “simile” of the Resurrection to come. There’s hope for these old bones yet!
“Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and have you rise from them, O my people!” (Ezekiel 37:13).
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY ww.takefiveforfaith.com/
MASK WEARING:
The risk of colds, 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 proper 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.
Sacrament of EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION (for Children in Year 4 or greater)
The celebration of First Holy Communion will be 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. The child can fully participate in the Eucharist (also known as the mass) through this sacrament 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 5:30 pm Or Tuesday, March 28 at 5:30 pm in Sacred Heart Church (Children are not required at this meeting but are welcome to attend if this assists with childminding.) 2. Final Meeting and Practice – Either Monday, May 22nd at 5:30 pm Or Tuesday, May 23rd at 5:30 pm (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.
We ask that all families check 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.
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 on our Surfers Paradise Parish website: www.surfersparadiseparish.com.
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 children are invited to receive. Confirmation completes Baptism. The Sacrament of Confirmation for the Surfers Paradise Parish will be celebrated on the evening of October 20, 2023.
Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation includes two compulsory meetings:
1. Parent Meeting – Either Tuesday, July 11 at 5:30 pm Or Wednesday, July 12 at 5:30 pm in Sacred Heart Church (Children are not required at this meeting but are welcome to attend if this assists with childminding.) 2. Final Meeting and Practice - Either Monday, October 9 at 5:30 pm Or Tuesday, October 10 at 5:30 pm in Sacred Heart Church (Child/ren and one adult are required to attend.)
For the celebration of Confirmation in 2023, parents of baptised children in Year 3 or older are invited to enrol their children in the continuing Sacramental Journey (that is: 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 (Please complete one for each child) is available at our website, www.surfersparadiseparish.com.
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 (in the blue box). Next, complete the orange and red forms 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 PENANCE - RECONCILIATION November 9 at 5:30 pm, 2023
Penance is a sacrament of forgiveness. It 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.
Please continue to regularly check the parish newsletter for Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) updates and further information.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
I am the resurrection, says the Lord in today's wonderful gospel. This is such a beautiful and important scripture passage today. Our Lord assures us that he has the power and the intention to raise us to eternal life; to call us out of the grave and into the new life of the Kingdom. This powerful scene of Jesus raising his friend Lazarus shows us so many things. He feels deeply for us in our loss even at the same time he is certain that he will call us into eternal life- but he still shares with us the pain of loss. He also reminds us that as well as the promise of the bodily resurrection on the last day, we can meanwhile get caught in many symbolic tombs during our living years as well. We can get stuck in e darkness of attitudes, actions and thoughts that are not life-giving. We can get bound up with cares and ambitions that wrap us in the things of death and not of new life. Our Lord has the power to call us out of the tombs and darkness and enmeshment of this life as well as the ultimate call to eternal life. let us trust in this promise and follow Christ into the light of his new life for us.
For people throughout the world dealing with the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. That the Lord will grant healing and strength and support the medical and emergency response people. Lord hear us. Lord Save us.
We continue to pray for all people throughout the world - the many people- who are suffering due to the Coronavirus pandemic - We pray for those who have died, that the Lord will receive them into his care. For bereaved family and friends, who also have experienced the isolation from loved ones at this time of health-restrictions and quarantine. We also pray for everyone affected by this terrible illness, including all suffering the isolation and the severe economic and financial effects. May the Lord inspire people of goodwill to find practical solutions to help and heal and lessen the burdens of so many.
+++
(The following is a couple of sections from the poem entitled).
LAZARUS. (John 11:1-53) (Written by Dan Doyle).
"If only his friend had been here,
He would not have died,"
We say to one another.
If only…If only…
Is our desperate prayer.
II
"Rabbi, If you had been here
my brother would not have died."
"Martha, he will rise again."
"Yes, I know this, Rabbi. At the Resurrection."
"I am the one who raises the dead. Do you believe me, Martha?"
"Yes, Master. Oh, yes, I believe.
I know you and with all my heart
I believe in you."
Then, Jesus wept.
…. In the days that followed
we talked excitedly about this miracle
that we had all been witness to.
And, still, many could not believe
in their weary and frightened hearts
that this son of an old carpenter from Nazareth,
this wandering rabbi, Jesus,
might be the one we have been waiting for
since the time of Moses and the prophets.
But some of us knew that this Jesus,
who had come so gently,
yet so powerfully among us,
was, indeed, the Messiah of God
and we began to tell everyone we met
what we had seen him do for Lazarus, our friend.
Lazarus lived on for many years
and never tired of telling the story.
in hushed and awe-filled tones.
And we never tired of listening.
Lazarus was a man of gentle knowledge,
of abiding faith, and of quiet strength.
He told us over and over again
that we were loved by one
who knows our hearts, and who
despises not our petitions,
and that we would never be alone.
We began going to the synagogue differently.
We listened to the words the Rabbi read
from the ancient prophets more closely
and we were moved in our hearts and minds.
At long last, Lazarus died
and we wept for sorrow again.
But we knew in our depths
that he was not dead,
that the Resurrection
promised by the prophets is real,
that death no longer holds sway
over our simple lives,
and that we will see each other again
in the world to come. Amen
Jesus said a lot of words to people in his ministry… (Words perfectly formed, and completely based on truth and backed up by action). Sometimes the things he said really challenged the faith of those who were with him……Other times, it healed and uplifted people, forgave and included people in a way they never could have imagined.
In the gospel today, Jesus talks to them about God having the final say on suffering and death…… / Jesus is powerfully SHOWING that HE DOES CARE…. HE DOES LOVE US….. It profoundly matters WHEN PEOPLE SUFFER, GRIEVE, DIE… …. OR FEEL TRAPPED BY THEIR PAST SINS or MISTAKES….. HE CRIES WITH US….. not because he feels helpless and can do nothing… he can do so much… he cries in union with us… because he feels and experiences along with us. HE SIGHS FROM THE HEART FOR US…….. AND HE SPEAKS WORDS OF CHANGE…..
BE HEALED
BE FORGIVEN
BE FREED….
I AM the resurrection and the life. ….
Some other very special words have a powerful effect because they are so intimately connected with Jesus' life, attitudes and actions// His message and the perfectly consistent qualities about himself are a perfect union. ….
These words are powerful, For the Spirit hovering over them, fills them with resonance and effectiveness.
Words such as:
"Your sins are forgiven"
"Your debt is cancelled"
"Be Opened"
"BE freed FROM YOUR BURDENS"
"Unbind him…. set him free!"
"This is my body broken for you…..
This is my blood poured out for you "
I love these words…. I know you do too…… They fill us with hope… But more than that… they immediately begin achieving what they say…….
No wonder the church believes so powerfully in the reality and the effectiveness of the Sacraments – where we touch, taste, smell, hear and see the action of Our Lord – connected to his ministry and mission – made present to us in every age.
Surely it is only Divine love that can truly fill us with the fullness of life again….……and call us to life-eternal. Drawn near, embraced…., healed, forgiven, included…. Always LOVED.
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; Doyle, D. (2020). This Poem Gives Such A Great Perspective On How Powerful and Yet Tender Our Lord Is! [online] FaithHub. Available at: https://faithhub.net/dan-
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 85594159 - Milan - the resurrection of Lazarus from San Giorgio church - Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https://soundcloud.com/user-
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
The Annunciation of the Lord
We are close now to Holy Week when we will celebrate our being brought over from slavery to freedom, for which the Word of God became flesh.
A free person serves God willingly. We hear in today’s feast the words Mary spoke freely: ‘I am God’s handmaid; let what you have said be done in me.’ At the beginning of Mass we might reflect on any unwillingness in us, any unfaithfulness before God, any clinging to slavery.
1. Then He called
The Angel Gabriel
And sent him toThe Virgin Mary,
2. At whose consent
The mystery was wrought,
In whom the Trinity
Clothed the Word with flesh.
3. And though Three work this,
It is wrought in the One:
And the Word lived incarnate
In the womb of Mary.
4. And He who had only a Father
Now had a Mother too,
But she was not like others
Who conceive by man.
5. From her own flesh
He received His flesh,
So He is called
Son of God and of man.
(St. John of the Cross, "The Incarnation" -16th c.)
©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/
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).
We treat affective relationships the way we treat material objects and the environment: everything is
disposable; everyone uses and throws away, takes and breaks, exploits and squeezes to the last drop.
Then, goodbye. Narcissism makes people incapable of looking beyond themselves, beyond their own
desires and needs. Yet sooner or later, those who use others end up being used themselves, manipulated
and discarded by that same mindset. It is also worth noting that breakups often occur among older adults
who seek a kind of “independence” and reject the ideal of growing old together, looking after and
supporting one another. (Para 39)
We need to find the right language, arguments and forms of witness that can help us reach the hearts of
young people, appealing to their capacity for generosity, commitment, love and even heroism, and in this
way inviting them to take up the challenge of marriage with enthusiasm and courage. (para 40).
The lack of dignified or affordable housing often leads to the postponement of formal relationships. It
should be kept in mind that “the family has the right to decent housing, fitting for family life and
commensurate to the number of the members, in a physical environment that provides the basic services
for the life of the family and the community”.
Families and homes go together. This makes us see how
important it is to insist on the rights of the family and not only those of individuals. (para 44)
Families, in particular, suffer from problems related to work, where young people have few possibilities and job offers are very selective and insecure. Workdays are long and oftentimes made more burdensome by extended periods away from home. This situation does not help family members to gather together or parents to be with their children in such a way as to nurture their relationships each day.” (para 44)
The sexual abuse of children is all the more scandalous when it occurs in places where they ought to be
most safe, particularly in families, schools, communities and Christian institutions. (para 45)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 216311500 - VATICAN CITY, VATICAN - SEPTEMBER 10: Pope Francis greets the pilgrims during his weekly general audience in St Peter's square at the Vatican on September 10, 2014. - Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: giulio napolitano
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Easter greeting cards available, priced at only $1.00 each
The March edition of the Catholic Leader is now available
News this month -
Apostolic Nuncio casts his eye across the Brisbane Archdiocese
Bs Anthony Randazzo is the new President of the Federation of the Catholic Bishop’s Conferences of Oceania
The Seminary welcomes four new seminarians
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION AT SACRED HEART CHURCH
CANCELLED DUE TO GOOD FRIDAY ON 7TH APRIL
THE BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP AT ST. VINCENT’S CHURCH
CANCELLED DUE TO GOOD FRIDAY ON 7TH APRIL
BIBLE STUDY
The Bible Study/Prayer Group continues each Friday evening from 5-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church
40 Hamilton Avenue Surfers Paradise. Studying “Break Open the Word” helps you to remember the readings for the upcoming Sunday Mass and, of course, enjoy fellowship with other members of the Parish. Enquires to Ashley 0409 840 693
OUR LADY’S STATUE
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady’s Statue in the Parish -
Details of the Statue of Our Lady, which is going around the Parish. If you would like to have her in your home and say the Rosary:
Please contact Maxine or Pat on 0412 519 404.
The Roster for the next four weeks is:
27/3/2023 Joanne Ferguson - Molendinar
3/04/2023 Joanne Ferguson - Molendinar
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” - It 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
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.
The Lenten Programme - TRIUMPH - from the Wollongong NSW diocese, will be run by the Sacred Heart Meditation group on Tuesdays in Lent from 10 am - 12md commencing Tuesday 22nd February. If you are interested in attending or for any enquiries, please ring Pam Egtberts 0428 090 703.
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE
Join us for our social 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.
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.
V. RELIGIONS IN DIALOGUE WITH SCIENCE
199. It cannot be maintained that empirical science provides a complete explanation of life, the interplay of all creatures and the whole of reality. This would be to breach the limits imposed by its own methodology. If we reason only within the confines of the latter, little room would be left for aesthetic sensibility, poetry, or even reason’s ability to grasp the ultimate meaning and purpose of things.[141] I would add that “religious classics can prove meaningful in every age; they have an enduring power to open new horizons… Is it reasonable and enlightened to dismiss certain writings simply because they arose in the context of religious belief?”[142] It would be quite simplistic to think that ethical principles present themselves purely in the abstract, detached from any context. Nor does the fact that they may be couched in religious language detract from their value in public debate. The ethical principles capable of being apprehended by reason can always reappear in different guise and find expression in a variety of languages, including religious language.
200. Any technical solution which science claims to offer will be powerless to solve the serious problems of our world if humanity loses its compass, if we lose sight of the great motivations which make it possible for us to live in harmony, to make sacrifices and to treat others well. Believers themselves must constantly feel challenged to live in a way consonant with their faith and not to contradict it by their actions. They need to be encouraged to be ever open to God’s grace and to draw constantly from their deepest convictions about love, justice and peace. If a mistaken understanding of our own principles has at times led us to justify mistreating nature, to exercise tyranny over creation, to engage in war, injustice and acts of violence, we believers should acknowledge that by so doing we were not faithful to the treasures of wisdom which we have been called to protect and preserve. Cultural limitations in different eras often affected the perception of these ethical and spiritual treasures, yet by constantly returning to their sources, religions will be better equipped to respond to today’s needs.
201. The majority of people living on our planet profess to be believers. This should spur religions to dialogue among themselves for the sake of protecting nature, defending the poor, and building networks of respect and fraternity. Dialogue among the various sciences is likewise needed, since each can tend to become enclosed in its own language, while specialization leads to a certain isolation and the absolutization of its own field of knowledge. This prevents us from confronting environmental problems effectively. An open and respectful dialogue is also needed between the various ecological movements, among which ideological conflicts are not infrequently encountered. The gravity of the ecological crisis demands that we all look to the common good, embarking on a path of dialogue which demands patience, self-discipline and generosity, always keeping in mind that “realities are greater than ideas”.[143]
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://
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety
……………..See overleaf …..
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