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“Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” (Matthew 17:9)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1738643165 - BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 3, 2020: The fresco of The Transfiguration on the mount Tabor in the church Parroquia Santa Teresa de l'Infant Jesus by Francisco Labarta (20. cent.). Important information - Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
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)
IMPORTANT NOTICE - Stella Maris Catholic Church at Broadbeach will be closed for essential work on the ceiling from now until the 10th of March 2023. There will be no masses at the Stella (Broadbeach) church during that time period.
PASTOR’S POST - A Time for Planning
Our Archdiocese has been running a series of workshops on Retirement, geared especially for priests and deacons. Although I am yet to attend one of these gatherings, I am getting closer to the time when I will need to consider what retirement from full-time ministry might look like, particularly at a time when we are experiencing such low numbers of priest available for appointment to the many duties that seem to be increasing as the number of priests are decreasing. I now realise what a difficult decision it must have been for some of my lay friends who have discovered that there is life after full-time work, and how will they still contribute their skills and experience to the community? When does a sense of duty and commitment realistically connect with the reality of the ageing mind and body?
People often say that they want to retire while they are still healthy enough to enjoy the activities that have been put on hold until a time when they are freer to enjoy themselves. Usually interests like grandchildren, sport, hobbies and travel are on the agenda, but often it’s just looking for time to not rush and to be released from having to make major decisions in the workplace. The essential difference between lay people and clergy in this matter, is that for paid people in jobs there is usually someone to step into their shoes when they have stepped back for a full-time work existence. This is not the case for the ordained.
The growth of the general population in South East Queensland in recent years has meant that a substantial growth in the number of schools and hospitals, nursing facilities for the aged and child care centres, could require the beginnings of new parishes in developing urban areas. In our South Coast Deanery has had a population explosion with Pimpama being the latest high growth area, such that what was once a small satellite suburb is now one of the largest parishes in the Archdiocese.
Already in certain rural areas several parishes are already sharing a parish priest, and some parishes with a long history are no longer able to celebrate Sunday Mass each Sunday. Nearly every parish in our Archdiocese has several churches and often multiple Catholic schools and colleges that require links to the parish. This is mainly due to parishes taking on the duties of next door parishes that don’t have a resident priest.
One significant consequence of this downturn in priest numbers is that some clergy are finding they are not as robust as they need to be to handle increased responsibilities of looking after several parishes at once. It is a case of the spirit being more willing than the flesh. It is therefore an expectation that retired priests who are in reasonable health will be able to assist the parishes in which they reside. This is not an ideal solution but it’s all we have at the moment.
In fact if this didn’t happen already, the Archdiocese would have to close or at least cut back on the services presently offered. Our own parish of Surfers Paradise is just one example. If it wasn’t for the generous assistance of Fr. Warren and Fr. John, both of whom are permanently retired, but have made themselves available most weekends, then we would certainly have to reduce some of our sacramental offerings in the parish. We are also very blessed to have the arrival of Father Bernie Gallagher, who has just retired to live in our parish, after a long and exceptional leadership in some of our largest and busiest parishes. Great news for our parish, but realistically we cannot assume that retirement means full-time duties. These men deserve the rest from responsibilities that they have carried for over 50 years.
As the Archbishop tells us on several occasions, “it cannot be business as usual” when it comes to the operation of parishes, by which I understand him to mean that what we have come to presume as being available in the past will need to be readjusted to the changing circumstances of the present day. Those changing circumstances are moving faster than anticipated and we are slow to change things until the last minute. Meanwhile I’ll continue to imagine what life might be like if I had choices about where, when and how I might spend my days when days will be less hectic.
Fr Peter Dillon PP.
ADVANCE NOTICE FOR HOLY WEEK AND EASTER - 6th April-9th April 2023
TEREESA'S STORY
Tereesa is a Gamilaroi woman from Western Sydney who struggled with homelessness while raising her four children. At just 16 years old, she had to leave school after falling pregnant with her first child. A single mother struggling with homelessness, Tereesa’s only concern was finding stability for her children.
Seeking a better future for her family, Tereesa joined Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation’s Young Mums and Bubs Group, supported by Caritas Australia. Baabayn helped Tereesa access housing and psychological support. Today, Tereesa is studying for a certificate in Community Services so that she can strengthen her skills and give back to her community.
Tereesa now works at Baabayn, providing support to young mothers and mentoring the next generation of young people.
REFLECTION
Think for a moment about some of the things you have on your walls at home. They don’t have to be fancy or expensive. They might be photos of your family or perhaps of deceased grandparents. They might be prints of famous paintings or posters with sayings that mean a lot to you.
Commonly, Christians have special things: crucifixes or images of saints. All of these things inspire us in one way or another. If ever you have had to pack up to move house and looked at your bare walls as you leave, they will seem empty and colourless. Art is one of the things that transfigures our world and makes it more beautiful.
Other things do this as well: laughter, tears, cooking, music, hugs and sharing stories. They all transfigure our houses and allow us to see them as homes. They unlock the true potential of an otherwise ordinary space.
This week Project Compassion, organised by Caritas Australia, presents us with the story of Tereesa, a 27-year-old Indigenous woman from western Sydney, the area with the largest urban Indigenous population in the country. Tereesa became pregnant at the age of 16. With your help, Project Compassion has been able to support the Mums and Bubs program run by Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation. This allowed Tereesa to find accommodation, gain skills and continue her education. She was also able to connect with her culture. Her glorious artwork was featured on the Wulugul Walk during Sydney’s Vivid Festival last year. Her use of light and colour transfigured the environment where it was displayed. In so many places, Project Compassion helps people to achieve their vision.
Of course, the transfiguration of Jesus is unique. We hear in today’s Gospel that Jesus took his closest friends to the top of a high mountain. His face shone like the sun and his face became ‘as white as the light.’
A voice from heaven said "this is my beloved son; listen to him.’"Peter said how wonderful it was to be there. The transfiguration may have only lasted a few minutes, but it was clear that Jesus’ friends never forgot it. Like a work of art on a wall, the memory made the world seem very different. During Lent, we are also called to transfigure the world, to make a difference.
Together, we can help vulnerable communities face their challenges today and build a better tomorrow For All Future Generations.
You can donate through Project Compassion donation boxes and envelopes available from your parish by visiting https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion, or by calling 1800 024 413.
LENTEN PRAYER OF INTERCESSION
We pray for all people who are a source of hope in the world and who help to transfigure darkness into light. May our support of Project Compassion help to keep alive our vision of Christ as the one we should most listen to, the light of the world.
With your support, Caritas Australia has been able to support communities across the globe in tackling poverty, food security, education, water and sanitation and disaster risk reduction. Project Compassion 2023 reminds us that the good that we do today will extend and impact the lives of generations to come.
You can donate through Project Compassion donation boxes and envelopes available from your parish by visiting https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion or by calling 1800 024 413.
SVDP THANKS AND AN UPDATE FOR THE NEWSLETTER REGARDING OUR CHRISTMAS APPEAL.
Through the generosity of the Parish, both by sharing time, talents and treasure, we were able to support raise $13070.55 to fund the good works of the conference. This helped us to spread Christmas cheer, and spirits in the form of food hampers and vouchers to some 76 households, of which 40 were families with children.
Further, 14 Vincentians were ably assisted by eight volunteers from the parish to coordinate, pack, sort and deliver all of these hampers. A special thanks to Maxine and Pat Sela, who go above and beyond to ensure that all of the many elements of this work at Christmas come together seamlessly.
The Christmas Appeal and the generosity of our wonderful parish enable our conference to continue good works throughout the year. We are increasingly faced with local families and households who are struggling with the cost of living and providing basic necessities - financial assistance goes a long way to helping those in our community get back on their feet when unexpected events unfold.
Should any parishioner like further information about the good works of the conference, please contact President Craig McMahon (craig.mcmahon@svdpqld.org.au) or Treasurer Adrian Biermann (adrian.biermann@svdpqld.org.au.
A few photos -
Help communities affected by Syria and Türkiye earthquakes.
Our partner Caritas Syria and other Caritas agencies on the ground are coordinating with local authorities and other organisations to see how they can best assist. Your generous support can help provide emergency relief to help families recover and rebuild from the disaster.
DONATE NOW- Syria and Türkiye earthquakes
STATIONS OF THE CROSS - FRIDAYS OF LENT
We will be celebrating the Stations of the Cross each Friday of Lent at 6 pm at
Sacred Heart Church, 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters.
3rd March 2023
10th March 2023
17th March 2023
24th March 2023
31st March 2023
COME and JOIN US
IF you would be willing to facilitate on one of the Fridays above please contact the Parish Office on 07 5671 7388 as we would be most grateful for your assistance.
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 will celebrate together this weekend at Sacred Heart. The Catechumens and Candidates have been invited this weekend to lunch with the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Daniel Balvo, Pope Francis’ ambassador to Australia, Archbishop Mark Coleridge, Brisbane Diocese, and the Priests across the South Coast Deanery. What a wonderful opportunity and privilege this will be for our candidates and for the Archbishops as well to meet up with those who are journeying to Baptism and Reception into our Church this Easter.
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.
URGENTLY STILL NEEDED: If there is anyone who feels a calling to become a support or sponsor for one of our catechumens or candidates, we would love to have you join us on Saturday afternoons at 2.30 pm in the Parish Hospitality Centre, 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters or ring the Parish Office to let them know of your intention 5671 7388. You will be most welcome.
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:
The Lord called Abram to go forth to a new land and begin a new nation. There is no telling what we can become by responding to the Lord's invitation to us. To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION - PRUNING TIME
“Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.”Genesis 12:1
God calls all of us to leave behind our old ways and to follow Him, placing our complete trust in Him. Some of the old ways that we struggle to leave behind might be materialism, selfishness and greed. Yet, God promises to show us a new land and a better way to live. Remember what St. Teresa of Calcutta said, “God does not call us to be successful; God calls us to be faithful.”
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: 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. And all suffering from Covid-19 and its effects.
RECENTLY DECEASED: 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, 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, Bernadette Hennessey, Maurice Stout, Baby Georgia Roberts-Farr, Teresa Duffy, Enzo Palmieri, Sylvia Sciberras, Manuel Dos Santos, John Mandile, Dell Bloomfield, Lionel Duggan.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: June Hilda Curtis, Kenneth Curtis, Peter Casey, Jose Tobias Molina, Elizabeth (Betty) O'Hagan, Raymond Fredricks, Joseph Caruana, Brenda Scantlebury, Romano Del Bianco, Pamela Margaret Rawlings, Monique Mary Felsman, Malcolm Leslie (Mal) Flannery, Austin Smith, Francis Vernon Maunder, Benjamin Anthony Kyle, Kathleen Jackson, Kathryn Matthews, Kazimierz Tadeusz Ważny, Shirley May Heath, Valerie Lorraine Meldrum, Bernadette Marie Douwes, Josephine Nosti, Mary Theresa Ford, Gerald Francis (Gerry) O’Reilly, Ronald Patrick (Ron) Chapman, Dawn Milgate.
And also: Percy and Clair Monteiro, Barbara Joan Degiovanni, John Arba, Richard Michael Trad, Peggy Doreen Norris, Kaylene Ellen Swan, John Norris Rohrs, Patricia (Pat) Moore, Ivy Gladys Yow, Doreen Hewitt, Kenneth Mason, William John (Bill) Kelly, William Chard, George Schreiber, John Anthony Woodruff, Wilhelmina Elizabeth Carter, Leisa Holman (née Mullins), Romano Del Bianco, Paul Bleakley, Margaret Mary Miller, Michael Anthony Geoghegan, Michael Maloney.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Honour the unnamed
The Bible is full of unnamed actors. Many are women: identified simply as mothers, wives, and daughters. While seven blessings promote the name of Abraham, it's the rare woman like Mary who's called blessed "for generations" in her canticle. Today we recall the unnamed wife of Chief Patricio de Hinachuba, an Apalachee laywoman among 57 martyrs in the Florida territory missions between 1549-1715, all currently up for sanctification. These martyrs included priests and catechists, native peoples, soldiers, and children. For all faithful, nameless women, we give thanks.
"I will make your name great so that you will be a blessing." (Genesis 12:1-4a).
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WARNING - ONLINE MISLEADING CATHOLICS
The internet and social media can be a helpful source of information and can help link people of like interests together for sharing of wisdom. Sadly, the internet can also be a source of misinformation and confusion that causes divisions and hurt. Some activity on social media, whereby groups claiming to be “catholic,” and even featuring people dressed in catholic habits, are attempting to make connections with people via the internet. (as you may know, groups like Facebook etc can alert different people to interest areas that they have specified, so if one puts “catholic” others who are (or claim to be catholic) can interact. Some of these groups are very way-out and not who they appear to be. They may be offering bible studies or faith classes online, or discussion groups ostensibly to help “catholics'' in their “faith.” However, we have had people indicate that they have grown suspicious of many of these groups and even doubt that they are catholic as they claim; or even Christian for that matter. One person has indicated they suspect these people of being more like a sect that is trying to draw unsuspecting people deeper into their confusing ideas and agendas. Please exercise great caution when visiting some of these religious sites or being contacted. The Archdiocese of Brisbane and our parish and many well known Catholic sites, such as the Vatican etc, have very good programs, links, resources and courses, that are very helpful and carefully vetted for good content. Even with these, beware of some advertised links that might take you to outside sites that are not related at all the the primary site. With so many worries in the world, and many parts of the world undergoing great trials, there has also been a noticeable increase in sites and people talking about ‘end times’ and other apocalyptic predictions. This can cause real fear and confusion and anxiety in people, especially the most vulnerable. It is important not to be frightened or misled by any of this. Troubles in the world should not be a cause for faith filled, hoped-filled Catholic Christians to become frightened or paranoid. Our Lord’s own words are very relevant here: “You will hear of wars and rumours of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” (Matthew 24:6). Also, this quote is encouraging: “At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time. “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather.” (Matthew 24:23-28). So basically, be wary of false or misleading groups, don’t be shaken by prophets of doom and gloom, and continue to gain your nourishment from healthy and reliable sources. God bless.
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 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 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.
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.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 (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 EUCHARIST - First HOLY COMMUNION (for Children in Year 4 or greater)
The celebration of First Holy Communion will be on 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 5:30 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.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 (in the blue box). 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 couple of weeks, 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 -
The Transfiguration of Our Lord on the mountain is another powerful affirmation that the Messiah, God's Son, truly is intended to walk the path of suffering and give his life on the Cross and, by this means, achieve glory and our salvation. It was so difficult for both disciples and opponents alike to get rid of their preconceived ideas that the Messiah would come in power and military victory and that God's approval would be shown by showering Jesus with success, spectacle and worldly power. Already Our Lord has had to correct Peter about the path of Calvary he must take. Glory and affirmation would come through his faithful endurance of so much sacrificing love. This mountaintop experience is a powerful but brief confirmation that Jesus is on the right path. A difficult path.
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In the gospel, we are told that Jesus shone like pure light… and the aspect of his face was changed….
In the Old Testament, we hear of Moses' face shining with light after praying to God.
In the case of Jesus, the transfiguration reveals what was the case all the time, but not always obvious…. That Jesus is truly God and truly human. And that his glory as God would be revealed again in and through his suffering, death, resurrection and ascension.
In the case of Moses, his shining face is slightly different from Our Lord's radiant face. Jesus' light shines from within his own divine nature. Whilst Moses' face is "reflected light." (Moses is reflecting that glory which he had experienced in his prayerful encounter with the presence of God and in his worship of God).
The fact is, Jesus wasn't actually momentarily glorified... He was always glorious… He was always "shining brightly"… In every moment of his life…
He was, at all times, utterly alive with the glory of being both fully God and fully human… However, most of the time, people only perceive an ordinary-looking man, seemingly just another person walking the same dusty roads as everyone else. The disciples only glimpsed this inner glory occasionally. but it was always there… It didn't come and go at different times of his life, even if it was more evident at some high points than at other times. Christ shone with glory in what he did and in, what he said, and his priorities and teachings….. He was glorious in the "everyday and the ordinary," as well as the extraordinary. The three Apostles' mountaintop glimpse of Christ's abiding glory teaches us to see and hear with the eyes of faith. the apostles were encouraged to keep looking for the recognition of his truth even when they came back down from the mountaintop to the ordinary and the everyday as well as the challenging and the awful moments of life.
In this revelation of Christ, the Heavenly father says… "this is my son… I am well pleased with him… listen to him!" - … This invites us to a deep, new openness to see and hear the "new" and the "different." Christ is inviting to go much deeper and to see what lies within.
If we are to accept Jesus' glorification truly, we must also accept the advice that went along with it. We must do what he tells us to do; (and live as he has taught us).
One scripture commentator asks a good question about what the disciples saw on the mountaintop. "Was Jesus transformed, or were his disciples' eyes opened?" That is, on one particular day, for a few precious seconds, they glimpsed fully and astoundingly the glorious truth about their friend and teacher, Jesus - the Truth that was always there to be seen – Whether realised by others or not
Even though the Transfiguration of our Lord is a unique moment of revelation about the divine nature of Christ, we Christians, not unlike Moses, shine with this light of Christ in us.
We have received the light of Christ at our baptism - we are children of the Light. We carry the light of Christ to all we meet….
We are called to shine that light for all to see so that people can, in turn, worship God, the source of that light…
We have seen, throughout the generations, people whose lives have been truly transfigured by God's love and grace…. They are people we have known who truly shine with God's love and graciousness…. People who certainly do seem to radiate God's love, forgiveness, compassion and kindness…- their faces almost literally shine… And it is not the glow of good health, or a good moisturiser, or the radiance of good fortune.... or even the glow of youth. Since many of these saints have shown that inner glow- A radiating love- I am sure WE have all met people like this - people who shine out with God's love even though age, extreme ill health and misfortune are very much part of their daily lives… It is nothing short of a miracle- and it is truly God's grace that shines out….
Sadly, we have probably all come across some who do not radiate this light- this grace… and we pray that no matter what is happening in our lives, we can all shine forth that serenity and grace that is implanted in our hearts by our loving and faithful God.
May this lent enlighten all of us so that we may, no matter what our situation, radiate God's love and light to all … / May the light of Christ expose all those dark and false areas of our lives. Things that distract and misdirect us - leading us away from the light of God's love and self-forgetting service) ……
After all, this is our calling; this is the gift God gives to us…. And this is our final destiny… to be with God, in Jesus, who is light from light!!!
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1226210515 - PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC - OCTOBER 13, 2018: The fresco of Transfiguration of the Lord in church Bazilika svatého Petra a Pavla na Vyšehrade by S. G. Rudl (1895). Important information- Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Renata Sedmakova
To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
MARCH 4 - m* - Saint Casimir. (Prince).
Short but sweet sainthood.
Lenten inspiration can come from anywhere—from scripture to Instagram, from saints to young people. While not a Bible figure or social media influencer, 15th-century Casimir of Poland happens to fit the categories of both saint and young person. Saint Casimir was a prince who was under intense pressure from his family and country to take a leading role in government and politics. But Casimir felt called to focus on prayer, study, and care for people in need. Although he had to contend with some very disappointed people, he stood firm in his decision to follow his calling. Disease cut short his life at the tender age of 25, but his example can inspire us to live out our calling and thus help fulfil his.
“This day the LORD, your God, commands you to observe these statutes and decrees. . . . with all your heart and with all your soul.” (Deuteronomy 26:16)
St Perpetua:
“Stand fast in the faith, and love one another, all of you, and be not offended at my sufferings. (Last words of Saint Perpetua, as testified to by the eyewitness to her martyrdom, as preserved by Tertullian in The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity.)”
“Neither can I call myself anything else than what I am, a Christian!- (Saint Perpetua, as preserved by Tertullian in The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity.)”
St Felicity:
St. Felicity was a pregnant slave girl who was imprisoned at the same time as Perpetua. She also was tortured and condemned to die. Several days before the games began she gave birth to a baby girl. The baby girl was secretly taken away to be raised by Christians.
St. Perpetua was a well-educated noblewoman living in Carthage, North Africa. Her mother was a Christian but her father was a pagan. Her father tried unsuccessfully to convince her to renounce her faith. Perpetua was 22 when she was arrested and imprisoned. She kept a diary of her sufferings and the nature of the torture she endured. She continued to care for her child in spite of the torture she was forced to endure.
http://catholicfaithpatronsaints.com/prayers-quips-and-quotes-sts-perpetua-felicity/
➔ St John of God:
"To saints, their very slumber is a prayer."
"The endurance of darkness is the preparation for great light."
"The soul that is quick to turn to speaking and conversing is slow to turn to God."
"In order to come to union with the wisdom of God, the soul has to proceed rather by unknowing than by knowing…"
"Let all find compassion in you."
"Obedience is a penance of reason, and, on that account, a sacrifice more acceptable than all corporal penances and mortifications."
"My spirit has become dry because it forgets to feed on You."
"The soul that journey's to God, but doesn't shake off its cares and quiet its appetites, is like someone who drags a cart of dirt uphill."
➔ St Frances of Rome:
God was granting her a special grace by sending an archangel to be her guardian angel for the rest of her life. She would always be able to see him. A constant companion and spiritual adviser, he once commanded her to stop her severe penances (eating only bread and water and wearing a hair shirt). "You should understand by now," the angel told her, "that the God who made your body and gave it to your soul as a servant never intended that the spirit should ruin the flesh and return it to him despoiled."
“She lived always in the presence of God.”
©2022 TrueQuest Communications. TakeFiveForFaith.com; mail@takefiveforfaith.com. All rights reserved. Noncommercial reprints are permitted with the following credit: Reprinted with permission from TakeFiveForFaith.com. Scripture citations from the New American Bible Revised Edition. For more information about “TAKE FIVE” and our regular contributors, go to PrepareTheWord.com.Free daily email and app available online at TakeFiveForFaith.com/subscribe
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).
In order to avoid all misunderstanding, I would point out that in no way must the Church desist from proposing the full ideal of marriage, God's plan in all its grandeur. (307}
I sincerely believe that Jesus wants a Church attentive to the goodness which the Holy Spirit sows in the midst of human weakness, a Mother who, while clearly expressing her objective teaching, "always does what good she can, even if in the process, her shoes get soiled by the mud of the street. {308}
This offers us a framework and a setting that helps us avoid a cold bureaucratic morality in dealing with more sensitive issues. Instead, it sets us in the context of a pastoral discernment filled with merciful love, which is ever ready to understand, forgive, accompany, hope, and above all, integrate. That is the mindset that should prevail in the Church and lead us to open our hearts to those living on the outermost fringes of society. I encourage the faithful who find themselves in complicated situations to speak confidently with their pastors or with other lay people whose lives are committed to the Lord. {312}
I also encourage the Church's pastors to listen to them with sensitivity and serenity, with a sincere desire to understand their plight and their point of view, to help them live better lives and to recognise their proper place in the Church. (312}
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2254763433 - Pope Francis holds his homily during the weekly Wednesday General Audience at St. Peter's Square on November 09, 2022, in Vatican City, Vatican. Important information -Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor-Salma Bashir Motiwala
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
The shops are open before and after all Masses at both the Sacred Heart and St Vincent’s Churches.
ST VINCENT’S CHURCH CAR PARK
This week the car parking bays have been repainted. Adding additional length has been allocated to each parking bay to allow for the modern day longer vehicle.
There is now only one row of centre parking to accommodate the extra length required and additional space for pedestrians.
This change will allow easier and safer access for pedestrians and their families walking to church, with prams, wheelie walkers, motorised scooters and wheelchairs.
Two car parking bays have been marked ‘reserved’ as previously.
BIBLE STUDY
The Bible Study/Prayer Group continues each Friday evening from 5-6pm
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
ADORATION NOTICE
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday 3rd March at Sacred Heart Church from 7pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678.
"Could you not watch one hour with Me?" Mt 26:40
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9am the 4th of March.
Followed by adoration and Benediction.
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
6/3/2023 Helen & Thor Skjaerback - Merrimac
MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church for the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on 13.03.2023.
The bus will be picking up at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare is $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with a contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon on 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
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.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. DIALOGUE FOR NEW NATIONAL AND LOCAL POLICIES
176. There are not just winners and losers among countries but within poorer countries themselves. Hence different responsibilities need to be identified. Questions related to the environment and economic development can no longer be approached only from the standpoint of differences between countries; they also call for greater attention to policies on the national and local levels.
177. Given the real potential for a misuse of human abilities, individual states can no longer ignore their responsibility for planning, coordination, oversight and enforcement within their respective borders. How can a society plan and protect its future amid constantly developing technological innovations? One authoritative source of oversight and coordination is the law, which lays down rules for admissible conduct in the light of the common good. The limits which a healthy, mature and sovereign society must impose are those related to foresight and security, regulatory norms, timely enforcement, the elimination of corruption, effective responses to undesired side-effects of production processes, and appropriate intervention where potential or uncertain risks are involved. There is a growing jurisprudence dealing with the reduction of pollution by business activities. But political and institutional frameworks do not exist simply to avoid bad practices, but also to promote best practices, to stimulate creativity in seeking new solutions and to encourage individual or group initiatives.
178. A politics concerned with immediate results, supported by consumerist sectors of the population, is driven to produce short-term growth. In response to electoral interests, governments are reluctant to upset the public with measures that could affect the level of consumption or create risks for foreign investment. The myopia of power politics delays the inclusion of a far-sighted environmental agenda within the overall agenda of governments. Thus we forget that “time is greater than space”,[130] and that we are always more effective when we generate processes rather than holding on to positions of power. True statecraft is manifest when, in difficult times, we uphold high principles and think of the long-term common good. Political powers do not find it easy to assume this duty in the work of nation-building.
179. In some places, cooperatives are being developed to exploit renewable sources of energy, which ensure local self-sufficiency and even the sale of surplus energy. This simple example shows that, while the existing world order proves powerless to assume its responsibilities, local individuals and groups can make a real difference. They can instil a greater sense of responsibility, a strong sense of community, a readiness to protect others, a spirit of creativity and a deep love for the land. They are also concerned about what they will eventually leave to their children and grandchildren. These values are deeply rooted in indigenous peoples. Because the enforcement of laws is at times inadequate due to corruption, public pressure has to be exerted to bring about decisive political action. Society, through non-governmental organisations and intermediate groups, must put pressure on governments to develop more rigorous regulations, procedures and controls. Unless citizens control political power – national, regional and municipal – it will not be possible to control damage to the environment. Local legislation can be more effective, too, if agreements exist between neighbouring communities to support the same environmental policies.
180. There are no uniform recipes because each country or region has its own problems and limitations. It is also true that political realism may call for transitional measures and technologies so long as these are accompanied by the gradual framing and acceptance of binding commitments. At the same time, on the national and local levels, much still needs to be done, such as promoting ways of conserving energy. These would include favouring forms of industrial production with maximum energy efficiency and diminished use of raw materials, removing from the market products which are less energy efficient or more polluting, improving transport systems, and encouraging the construction and repair of buildings aimed at reducing their energy consumption and levels of pollution. Political activity on the local level could also be directed to modifying consumption, developing an economy of waste disposal and recycling, protecting certain species and planning a diversified agriculture and the rotation of crops. Agriculture in poorer regions can be improved through investment in rural infrastructures, a better organization of local or national markets, systems of irrigation, and the development of techniques for sustainable agriculture. New forms of cooperation and community organisation can be encouraged in order to defend the interests of small producers and preserve local ecosystems from destruction. Truly, much can be done!
181. Here, continuity is essential, because policies related to climate change and environmental protection cannot be altered with every change of government. Results take time and demand immediate outlays which may not produce tangible effects within any one government’s term. That is why, in the absence of pressure from the public and from civic institutions, political authorities will always be reluctant to intervene, all the more when urgent needs must be met. To take up these responsibilities and the costs they entail, politicians will inevitably clash with the mindset of short-term gain and results which dominates present-day economics and politics. But if they are courageous, they will attest to their God-given dignity and leave behind a testimony of selfless responsibility. A healthy politics is sorely needed, capable of reforming and coordinating institutions, promoting best practices and overcoming undue pressure and bureaucratic inertia. It should be added, though, that even the best mechanisms can break down when there are no worthy goals and values, or a genuine and profound humanism to serve as the basis of a noble and generous society.
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 …..
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