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“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” (Matt 13:45-46)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 563276161. Gold crown of thorns on weathered brown background with pearls scattered - Conceptual of a king's suffering and the parable of the pearl of great price.
Photo Contributor: Madele.
Cathy's words for Fr Peter Saturday Vigil July 22
Goodbye and Thank You to Fr Peter Dillon, Sacred Heart Saturday Vigil July 22, 2023
On behalf of this group of great Surfers Paradiseans, thank you, Fr Peter.
Thank you for six years of leading and nurturing this large parish.
Thank you for your homilies and pastor’s posts that have inspired us, calmed us, and challenged us. We know that you love words and language, and your skills in this area will ensure that your new title of Vicar Administration will be extended to include Vicar of Wordle and all things Cryptic.
Thank you for those elements of your Parish Priest role that constitute somewhat behind-the-scenes stewardship - From the challenging reality of parish finance management to supporting the diverse groups and individuals who work to share the tasks that are essential to maintaining such a large and vibrant parish. On a personal note, I have never worked for a boss who speaks kindly to say thank you as he does to tell me that my mistake will be ok … it can be overcome.
Thank you, Fr Peter, for listening to all our stories of family strife and sometimes personal tragedy, to our stories of delight and the celebration of blessings received in so many forms here in this most fortunate Gold Coast location. You listen and hear, and you provide spiritual and practical advice. Your responses are always calm and insightful, caring, respectful, truth-filled, and, where appropriate, coated with a generous serving of Dillon humour.
That humour is also evident in the double act that has been another significant aspect of Fr Peter’s time here in Surfers Paradise. When Fr Peter Dillon and Fr Paul Kelly recount tall tales and truth, things can get very funny. And beyond their humour, Fr Peter and Fr Paul have shown us what teamwork should look like. They have brought their many talents to bear to uplift, enrich and bless us.
Fr Peter, we are all coming to terms with the new reality that our future will not include you as our Parish Priest. We all realise that the best way that we can say thank you for six great years is for each of us to consciously commit to continuing our work and continuing to support Fr Paul as he takes over the reins. We will keep you in our prayers and hope you will have many opportunities to return to us here in this piece of Paradise.
Would everyone please join me in praying this Prayer of Blessing by raising your hands towards Fr Peter?
May the blessing of our God
be upon you,
the blessing of the father and the son
and may the Spirit of God,
the Spirit of Love
be with you all your days.
Cathy Anderson
PASTOR’S POST - The Treasure of Unimaginable Value
Indeed, the Treasure in a field mentioned in this weekend’s gospel is the priceless Treasure of God’s Kingdom and faith and union with Our Lord. The Treasure is the Gospel of Jesus and his values. It is worth putting all our efforts and energy into and worth more than anything else we can imagine.
This brings to my heart a profound gratitude for the countless generations of Christians who valued the Treasure of faith that they, in turn, have received from their families and teachers. Countless generations of Christians have believed so much in the priceless treasure of their faith that they have put their energy, their lives and their resources into building it up.
We have a wonderful tradition of Catholic/Christian faith being an integral part of this area of the Gold Coast. We give thanks to God for inspiring people in this region (and throughout the world), to invest in the Christian education of young people and to build churches where God is worshipped and the Gospel made tangible in this place and time.
We only have to look around us to see living symbols of the treasure lying in a field. We cherish the commitment of so many generous people who have built Churches and schools and also all who have built up the community with their generosity, charity and practical help.
These buildings represent the inner treasure of the Christian faith, applied concretely to the places we live, work and socialise. Let us thank God for the generations who have put into practical action their deep understanding that the Gospels and discipleship in Christ are worth a wholehearted and priceless commitment of time, talent and treasure. God continues to inspire us to nurture and prioritise our efforts around building up the spiritual treasure, the Kingdom of God, and Jesus’ transforming gospel.
Fr PK
Anointing Mass Returns to the Parish. First Tuesday of every month (excluding January and December).
For that Mass only, it will be at 10 am,
followed by a morning tea organised by the Surfers Paradise Catholic Ladies. Sacred Heart Church Next Mass 10 am Sacred Heart - Tuesday, August 1st 2023. There will be no 9 am Mass that day.
Please spread the word.
Stock Photo ID: 2288579397. Song Vinh Church. Stained glass. The sacrament of Extreme Unction or Anointing of the Sick. Vietnam. 12-10-2022. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: godongphoto
ASSISTANCE DOGS
Michelle, one of our parishioners, wanted to share with everyone that Bailey, her assistance dog, got his MindDog Training vest the other week. If people see Michelle and see that her dog Bailey has his vest on, please do not interact with Bailey as this is a working dog in working mode. People probably already know, but Michelle just wanted to share this. Thanks.
Bailey is in a work vest. Please Look, but please do not interact with Bailey. (this principle applies to all working dogs and support dogs when they are in work mode). God bless.
ITALIAN CATHOLICS ON THE GOLD COAST - MEET AND GREET
Meet the new Italian priest, Luis Antonio, and celebrate his 25 years of Priesthood. Social gathering Sunday 6th August after Italian Mass.
World Youth Day - Our Parish Representatives as pilgrims to World Youth 5h Day 2023 are parishioners Jeunita and Jeunesse, Antao and Alec De Sousa. God bless and guide them in their pilgrimage.
INTENDED MARRIAGE PROCLAMATION (AS PER REQUEST OF OVERSEAS DIOCESE)
Com o favor de Deus e da Santa Mãe Igreja querem se casar: BENJAMIN RYAN e FABIOLA LERCH DUARTE
Ele, filho de DANIEL GLIFFORD RYAN e ZVIA RYAN, residente há 1 anos na SURFERS PARADISE
CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. Ela, filha de JANOR TRINDADE DUARTE e ROSEMARI LERCH, residente há 1 anos na SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. O casamento será realizado em 14/10/2023 na PAR. MADRE DE DEUS (CATEDRAL). Quem souber de algum motivo para que este Casamento não seja realizado,está obrigado, em consciência, a avisar o Pároco. PEDIDO DE PROCLAMAÇÃO - NOIVA. SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. Revmo. Sr. Pároco. Favor, publicar e informar.
With the favor of God and Holy Mother Church they want to marry: BENJAMIN RYAN and FABIOLA LERCH DUARTE. He, son of DANIEL GLIFFORD RYAN and ZVIA RYAN, resident for 1 year at SURFERS PARADISE
CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. She the daughter of JANOR TRINDADE DUARTE and ROSEMARI LERCH, resident for 1 year at SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. The wedding will take place on 10/14/2023 at PAR. MOTHER OF GOD (CATHEDRAL). Anyone who knows of any reason why this Marriage should not take place is obliged, in conscience, to notify the parish priest. REQUEST FOR PROCLAMATION - BRIDE. SURFERS PARADISE CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. Rev. Mr. parish priest. Please publish and inform.
CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2023
In Surfers Paradise Parish, we have 112 children who have recently begun Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. We ask the members of our Parish Family to remember these children and their families in prayer:
May God bless these parents as they continue to fulfil the promises that they made on behalf of their children at baptism. As they approach this sacred task, may the Holy Spirit guide them. Just as the Lord Jesus made the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak, may he once again touch the ears of these children to receive his word, and their mouths to proclaim his faith, to the praise and glory of God the Father. Amen.
LITURGY REFLECTION - (Article by Elizabeth Harrington Part III)
PREPARATION OF THE GIFTS
The Liturgy of the Word at Mass is followed by what is called the ‘Preparation of the Gifts’. In the Preparation of the Gifts, the bread and wine for the Eucharist are brought forward, placed on the altar, and a prayer is said over them. The procession with the gifts by members of the assembly represents our participation in the eucharistic action as we offer ourselves along with the gifts of bread and wine.
The Missal’s General Instruction mentions only bread, wine and money (or other gifts for the poor and the Church) in the procession. It is a procession of gifts: you can’t take them back again afterwards!
In the early years of Christianity, the faithful brought bread and wine with them to church to be used in the celebration of the Eucharist. What wasn't used at the Mass was given to the poor and needy. Later, people started bringing other gifts of food or money which were offered for the work of the Church. In most parishes today, a collection of money that will be used in the mission of the Church is taken up during the Preparation of Gifts.
Visitors to a Catholic Church are often surprised (and sometimes embarrassed!) when the collection plate comes around a second time at Mass. Having two collections is a way of separating donations for the support of the clergy from contributions to the cost of the parish services and operations.
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
Central to the Liturgy of the Eucharist at Mass is the Eucharistic Prayer. The priest offers this prayer on our behalf. We participate through the opening dialogue and the three acclamations and by joining our personal praise and sacrifice to that of the Church.
The following elements are included in all thirteen Eucharistic Prayers in the Missal, though the order varies:
• Thanksgiving - especially in the Preface, which gives thanks for the whole work of salvation or some special aspect of it;
• Acclamation - the “Holy, holy” sung by the people and presider after the Preface. Here we join the singing of the angels and saints before God’s throne;
• Invocation - or epiclesis, the calling down of the Holy Spirit on the gifts of bread and wine;
• Institution narrative - the retelling of the scriptural account of Christ’s words and actions at the Last Supper;
• Memorial prayer - or anamnesis (‘lest we forget’) which recalls the paschal mystery;
• Offering - the entire Church and this assembly offer Christ and themselves to God in union with Christ;
• Second invocation of the Spirit - this time on those gathered that they may become “one body, one spirit in Christ”;
• Intercessions for the Church and the world, for the living and the dead;
• Final doxology - (“through him, with him, ….”), the prayer of praise in which the celebrant sums up and concludes the thanksgiving offered to God.
Elizabeth Harrington -
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
Come meet new Italian priest, Luis Antonio, and celebrate his 25 years of Priesthood. Social gathering Sunday 6th August after Italian Mass.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK:
Also, (Alphabetical) Jack Barretto, Julie & Paul Bowden, Nellie Bellinger, Jean Di Benedetto, Coralie Brennan, Kevin Brennan, Tim Brown, Margaret Buckingham, Diana Castro, Cecily Cellinan, Doug Chester, Jo Clark, Leslie Clarke, Margaret & George Cook, Alfonso Covino, Margaret Cusack, Pam Davis, Geraldine Daniels, Anne Van Deurse, John Fisher, Rosie May Fisher, Sally Gage, Fred Grioli, Jacob Haddad, Jenny Haines, Peter Harford, Lena Hiscock, Louise Holmes, Kim Ingram, Anna Janiek, Pat Jones, Leona Kelly, Kath Kiely, Betu Kim, Bob Lahey, Diane & Steve Land, Patrick Joven de Leon, Nathan Lepp, Joseph Ah Lo, Sarina Losurdo, John Nathaniel Maher, Maria Manuela, Andrew McPherson, Phil McWilliam, Fabiola Menzs, Joanne Mooney, Michael & Lesley Murtagh, Lynn Nunan, Stephen O’Brien, Peter O’Brien, Natalie O’Reilly, Letty O’Sullivan, Joanne Parkes, Kay Pitman, Rachel Raines, Gus Reeves, Patricia Roberts, Rogelio Rodriguez, Sue Rogers, Bob Rogers, Felipe S Cataquiz Sr, Kathy Stevens, Jim Stewart, Betty Taylor, Liza Teo, John Thomas, Baby Samuel Timothy, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Karen Vestergard, Lois Wood.
RECENTLY DECEASED:
(Chronological - Most recent first): Patrick Vincent (Paddy) Hoolahan, Carlo Boladian, Barbara Mary Currie, Marcia McCausland, Vennetia Miles, Rebecca O’Reilly, Fritz Bower, Beatriz Dos Santos, Pat Goddard, Rodney McLennan, Moureen Elaine Tracey, Domizio Gandini, Rocco Bellantoni, Jack Cartwright, Luciano Albergo, Antonio Invernizzi, Barry McMahon, Bernadette Martin, Bill Drummond, Charles George Dayney, Daniel Clancy, Delores Barrett, Don Brinkworth, Dr Frank Miau, Elijah Christian, Graham Price, Joseph Griffa, June Toole, Lorraine Geraghty, Maria Brazinas, Mario Paul Mazza, Melissa Ann Lord, Noel Ferdinands.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Barbara June Arthurson, Marjorie Veronica Bates, William John (Bill) Burroughs, Jack Burrow, Mons Francis Burton, Lawrence Anthony Buttigieg, Raymond Moran Byrne, Fr Dan Carroll, Fr Bill Taylor Cm, Lyn Daly, David D'arcy, Rachel Desira, Fr Maurice Duffy, Josephine (Joyce) Farrugia, Denis Frederick Fletcher, Elizabeth Josephine Gagiero, Mavis Joseph, V.F Joseph, Herbert Ernest Mitchell, Fr Basil Nolan, Fr Arthur O'Brien, Eileen O'Reilly, Fr Peter Schultz, Fay Sorensen, Edgar Triffett, Fay Virtue (Nee Tierney) Tyrril, Luigi Valdarchi.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Malcolm Condon, Giuseppe Joe Alba, Dr Rogerson Bullen, John Peter Reid, Raphael Desira, Marie Doreen Emslie, Fr Dominic Fogarty OSA, Fr Owen Hayes, Thomas Hirst, Fila Jones, Tadeusz Antoni Karawczyk, Fr John Kelly, Patrick Kelly, Alan King, Kenneth Ledster, Fr Raymond Lyons, Valda Martin, Marie Martinek, Patrick McKenzie, Vivienne Marie Miau, Helen Therese Moffat, Ronald (Ron) Mooney, Tera Phillip, Daniel Charles (Dan) Quinn, John Peter Reid, Eileen Scharenguivel, Danny Schembri, Fr Michael Stapleton, Maurie Taafe, Vittoria Ulliana, William (Bill) Walker, William Cecil (Bill) Wall.
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 and speedily 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. Please help us service the region effectively and help prevent delays in response by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5576 6466
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Pvt Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Shops are open before and after Mass each weekend. Other times, please contact the Parish Office, phone 56717388 9 am-12 pm Monday-Friday.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this 1st Friday, 5th August, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch with Me for one hour?" Mt 26:40
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am 5th of August.
Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
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 as follows-
31/7/2023 Bernadette Hensley - Arundel
07/8/2023 Bernadette Hensley - Arundel
14/8/2023 Merla & Rodney Antony - Chevron Island
21/8/2023 Merla & Rodney Antony - Chevron Island
28/8/2023 Maxine & Pat Sela - Main Beach
4/9/2023 Katherine & Earnie Adolfo - Clear Island Waters
11/9/2023 Katherine & Earnie Adolfo - Clear Island Waters
18/9/2023 Geary & Rudi Camera - Southport
25/9/2023 Geary & Rudi Camera - Southport
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, Card making, 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 -
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 Bold and the Beautiful Friendship Group
The Friendship Group is meeting for lunch at noon on Thursday, the 27th of July. Coffee at New Life Cafe on Markeri Street. All are welcome. If you need more information, please contact Amanda Rowe at 0421 487 009.
“Signs of Hope - People of Faith” Concerts with Peter Kearney
Signs of Hope-People of Faith. Concerts with Peter Kearney - songwriter, singer, and guitarist. Songs, stories and reflections about people whose faithful lives have brought compassion, hope and justice into our world. Venues: 1. THE GAP. Monday 31st July, 7.30 pm in St John’s Wood/The Gap Parish Hall.
2. BURLEIGH WATERS. Wednesday, August 2nd, 7.00 pm in Mary Mother of Mercy Church.
3. WAVELL HEIGHTS. Thursday, August 3rd, 6.30 pm in St Paschal’s Catholic Church.
No set $ admission. Donations are welcome at intervals. Peter’s hymns and songs have been published in fifteen albums. His best-known compositions include ‘Fill My House’, ‘The Beatitudes’ and 'Where is Your Song My Lord?'
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesus de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate every 2nd Saturday of the month from 11 am to 2 pm. Place: Hospitality Room. Sacred Heart Church. “We praise, We praise, We grow spiritually from the Word of the Lord.” For more information, please ring Grace: 0410 006 484.
Contemplative Women’s Group.
Contemplative Women’s Group: Sinking into the Feminine Divine. We meet on the 4th Saturday of every month from 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm in Mary Mother of Mercy Church, for a time of contemplation and sharing, as we depth the charism and legacy of a woman of faith. This month, Saturday 22nd July, we are walking with Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann.
1.30 – 3.30 pm, Mary Mother of Mercy Church, 3 Sunlight Drive, Burleigh Waters. Contact sue@suethomas.net.au for more information. Or just turn up by 1.30 pm. No cost. Simple afternoon tea was supplied. Come, join us on the path.
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“TAP `N” GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THE THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10 and tap again when it has reset for another $10, and so on.
ST STEPHENS CATHEDRAL SAINT MARY MACKILLOP MASS
To honour St Mary MacKillop’s legacy and seek her intercession, I invite you to join me for Mass on Tuesday, 8 August 2023, at 10a m at the Cathedral of St Stephen.
I also invite you to consider a contribution to support the Mary MacKillop Bursary Fund. Your kindness and compassion mirror the heart of St Mary of the Cross and make it possible for her legacy to continue in our Brisbane Catholic schools today. With your gift, you provide educational opportunities to children and families in situations of hardship.
Please join us for this special celebration as we turn to the patron of the Archdiocese on her feast day.
Join us on Tuesday, 8 August 2023, for Mass at 10 am at the Cathedral of St Stephen
To register your attendance, please click here to RSVP, email rsvp@bne.catholic.net.au
or phone (07) 3324 3200.
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, please arrive by 10.30 am to prepare adequately for class). For more information, call Ruth on 0421338110.
ARCHDIOCESAN CENTRE FOR CATHOLIC FORMATION
After the successful launch of the first module by the Archdiocesan Centre for Catholic Formation, we are excited to open registrations for Module Two: Understanding, Praying and Living the Scriptures.
The experience of these core modules will engage both the head and the heart so participants grow in knowledge and the lived experience of the Catholic faith. Each module includes 10 sessions supported by individual reflection and an Archdiocesan Certificate awarded for completion. Note you do not need to have completed Module One to register for Module Two.
Check out the course overview for more info: DOWNLOAD THE PROSPECTUS
Understanding, Praying and Living the Scriptures
This second module engages participants in the scriptures. We will explore their inspiration, canonisation, unity and how to interpret scripture within the Catholic tradition. Beyond the mechanics, this module provides an experience of listening to the voice of God in scripture, ensuring that scripture moves beyond mere text to being experienced as God’s word to us.
It will cover themes including:
Can We Trust the Scriptures?
The Unity of the Two Testaments
Biblical Foundations for Catholic Doctrines
Scripture in Liturgy
Time: 7-9 pm (Monday nights)
Dates: 21 August - 13 November 2023 (excl. public holidays & school holidays)
Location: Xavier Hall, Holy Spirit Seminary, Banyo
Module Presenter: Deacon Peter Pellicaan PhD (Executive Director, Evangelisation Brisbane)
Cost: $250pp | $150pp for groups of 5 or more
We’d like to invite you to personally prayerfully consider if God may be calling you to partake in this opportunity. Register now at catholicformation.au or find out more via the button below.
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.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Finding our vocation in life is like finding a buried treasure. We will do whatever we have to, to be able to possess it. Finding the treasure is a gift; possessing it is our vocation. To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”-Romans 8:28
Do you really trust God? Do you really believe that God will provide all that you need? Faith is a challenge for everyone at times. Putting our trust in God, in everything we do, in good times and in bad, means that God’s plan for our lives may differ from what we planned. When one door closes, another one opens. Trust in God, His plan is always better.
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous,
and accountable for what each has been given.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - String your own pearls
Jewelry is a matter of taste. Some folks like gold; others prefer silver. But in Jewish tradition, the pearl is a metaphor for valuable teaching. Our "pearl of great price," then, is the teaching upon which we build everything else, the motivation that governs our decision-making. What's yours? For some, it's that all life is sacred. For others, the common good must be served. Still others take the preferential option for the poor or champion stewardship of creation. Remember: You don't have to choose just one.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls.” Matthew 13:44-52.
ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
In the Gospel parable today, a man discovers a treasure in a field and immediately sets about selling; EVERYTHING else he has so that he could HAVE THAT one perfect treasure.
The Treasure of infinite value is God’s Kingdom,.. Jesus’ Good news… Being united forever with Jesus in God’s family……
IT IS A RARE TREASURE… of a price that cannot be named.
God’s wisdom –that is, having an understanding heart - is also a treasure greater than gold or long life;.
God’s Kingdom is more precious and a treasure than any other earthly thing, and our efforts and priorities rightly reflect this. It is worth giving up everything else to attain it……
It has a richness and a depth that can never be fully plumbed……
One of these treasures is revealed in the first reading… King Solomon is promised any gift he likes… (he could ask for anything!) - but instead of asking for wealth or long life, or the defeat of his enemies, he asks for wisdom.. He prays for an “understanding heart.”
God offers us a way of looking at life that is more valuable than anything else… - It changes everything we see; and think.
It changes our priorities according to God’s ways of seeing things.
An understanding heart.. that can discern what is truly good and worthwhile….That is something of abiding worth……. It is just so beautiful….
As I read that parable of the treasure in the field….…..I am reminded of the quote from G.K. Chesterton (the great English scholar and writer)… (and I am paraphrasing it liberally here)…. He writes….. ‘It’s not that Christianity hasn’t worked; it is just that nobody’s really tried it yet !’
And he has a very interesting point there.
I can say that after twenty-five + years of priestly ministry and reflection on the gospels, and before that, seven years of training for the priesthood, and also a lifetime of participation in the prayer and sacraments of the Catholic church….. After all that, --- I can STILL truly say I feel very much like I am only just scratching the surface of the riches of Jesus’ Good news. ..
I believe that I have plumbed a few of the beautiful depths of the Christian treasury, but having said all that – because this exploration is of a priceless treasure; for me, is truly just scratching the surface of the faith, and the gospels, the sacraments, the teaching of Christ’s church, and the wonderful writings of the saints. We could not possibly read all of them before our life ends.
The Gospel (and the sacraments and teachings of Christ’s church, and its two thousand years of writings and reflections,… four thousand when one counts the Hebrew Scriptures) ….are like a rich and huge diamond seam - With much of it under the surface; and at times a little bit of polished or unpolished diamond peeks out through the surface.
To look at that bit only and dig no further would be the greatest tragedy of all time….. And quite ill-advised.
If we dig deeply into the riches of the church's treasury; we will certainly find; and if we keep finding; we will never get to the bottom of it. It is so Rich.
The absolute richness of what God offers us never ceases to astound and draw us deeper. It never ceases to satisfy. It will never be exhausted!
“The more we search…., the more we find! The more we find, the more we search, O Lord.” -- as one of the great Saints wisely observed.
Our faith is a treasure of incredible depth. If one has searched and delved into this treasure of incredible value and claims to have grasped this Christian Faith enough, find it wanting…. I am really not sure where they have been digging!!! ???
The gospel continues to be a priceless, precious, and worthy treasure – worthy of all our efforts to explore-
So I must admit when one hears of people saying that they explored the Christian faith and then went off somewhere else to find “greater truth” –
I really do wonder what they've been doing! And how could they possibly have plumbed the depths of this infinite gift? Really what on earth were they exploring?
May God, who has so graciously accompanied and given success to our work so often in the past, continue this good work in us and bring it to perfection.
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly;
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed. Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 1432897322 - book pearl of great price, vector illustration eps 10 - Vector Formats. 300 • JPG. Vector Contributor: AStudio-1; + Stock Illustration ID: 171963344. A precious pearl in an oyster shell in a row of shells 3D render. Illustration Contributor: Michael D Brown
[“’gospel’ values included in the readings:” God’s wisdom – an understanding heart - is a treasure greater than gold or long life; God’s Kingdom is more precious a treasure than any other earthly thing, and our efforts and priorities can reflect this]
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
St Ignatius of Loyola:
“Go forth and set the world on fire.”
“Act as if everything depended on you; trust as if everything depended on God.”
“Love is shown more in deeds than in words.”
“To give, and not to count the cost, to fight, and not to heed the wounds, to toil, and not to seek for rest, to labour, and not to ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do thy will”
“God freely created us so that we might know, love, and serve him in this life and be happy with him forever. God's purpose in creating us is to draw forth from us a response of love and service here on earth so that we may attain our goal of everlasting happiness with him in heaven.
All the things in this world are gifts of God, created for us to be the means by which we can come to know him better, love him more surely, and serve him more faithfully.
As a result, we ought to appreciate and use these gifts of God insofar as they help us toward our goal of loving service and union with God. But insofar as any created things hinder our progress toward our goal, we ought to let them go.”
“Laugh and grow strong”
“If God causes you to suffer much, it is a sign that He has great designs for you, and that He certainly intends to make you a saint. And if you wish to become a great saint, entreat Him yourself to give you many opportunities for suffering; for there is no wood better to kindle the fire of holy love than the wood of the cross, which Christ used for His own great sacrifice of boundless charity.”
“He who goes about to reform the world must begin with himself, or he loses his labour.”
“Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all I have and call my own. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me.”
“Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam.”
“[L]ove ought to manifest itself in deeds rather than in words.... love consists in a mutual sharing of goods, for example, the lover gives and shares with the beloved what he possesses, or something of that which he has or can give; and vice versa, the beloved shares with the lover. Hence, if one has the knowledge, he shares it with the one who does not possess it; and so also if one has honours, or riches. Thus, one always gives to the other.”
“If our church is not marked by caring for the poor, the oppressed, the hungry, we are guilty of heresy.”
“For it is not knowing much, but realising and relishing things interiorly, that contents and satisfies the soul.”
“What seems white, I will believe black if the hierarchical Church so defines.”
“Try to keep your soul in peace and quiet, always ready for whatever our lord may wish to work in you. it is certainly a higher virtue of the soul, and a greater grace, to be able to enjoy the Lord in different times and different places than in only one.”
“It is dangerous to make everybody go forward by the same road: and worse to measure others by oneself.”
“He learned by experience that one train of thought left him sad, the other joyful. This was his first reasoning on spiritual matters.”
“My birth is imminent. Forgive me, brethren. Do not prevent me from coming to life.
– As he faced the prospect of being devoured by wild beasts for his faith”
“Ite, inflammate omnia.” (Go, and set fire to the World!)
“For though, outside the Exercises, we can lawfully and with merit influence everyone who is probably fit to choose continence, virginity, the religious life and all manner of evangelical perfection, still in the Spiritual Exercises when seeking the Divine Will, it is more fitting and much better, that the Creator and Lord Himself should communicate Himself to His devout soul, inflaming it with His love and praise, and disposing it for the way in which it will be better able to serve Him in future. So, he giving the Exercises should not turn or incline to one side or the other, but standing in the centre like a balance, leave the Creator to act immediately with the creature, and the creature with its Creator and Lord.”
“During the conversation, mention was made of the Blessed Virgin. The stranger remarked that though he admitted that the Mother of Christ had conceived without detriment to her virginal purity, yet he could not believe that after the conception of her divine Son, she was still a virgin. He was so obstinate in holding this opinion that no amount of reasoning on the part of Ignatius could force him to abandon it. Shortly afterwards, the Saracen rode on, leaving the pilgrim to his reflections. These were not of the most peaceful nature. He was sorely troubled as he thought over the conduct of his recent fellow traveller and felt that he had but poorly acquitted himself of his duty of honouring the Mother of God. The longer his mind thought upon the matter, the more his soul was filled with indignation against himself for having allowed the Saracen to speak as he had done of the Blessed Virgin and for the lack of courage he fancied he had shown in not at once resenting the insult. He consequently felt impelled by a strong impulse to hasten after him and slay the miscreant for the insulting language he had used.”
Saint Alphonsus Liguori
Is the patron saint of many things, including the work of laypeople. Even though he was a founder of a religious order, the Redemptorists, he was, of course, first a layperson and one with a successful career. A lawyer who didn’t lose a case for eight years straight, he still found time in his busy schedule to visit the terminally ill, which is how he discovered his true vocation and became a priest and leading theologian. Liguori might be the first to advise: Take a break from work to give back to the community, and you might get your big break in finding your mission. (Matthew 14:13-21 (407). “His heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sickness”).
Saint JOHN VIANNEY, PRIEST.
Persistence is a virtue. Sometimes a vocation comes packaged with obstacles. Perhaps it is God’s way of testing our resolve. In any case, John Vianney, born in revolutionary France in 1786, modelled persistence in his determination to become a priest. His religious training was disrupted by the anticlerical reign of terror unleashed during the French Revolution. Priests in hiding who risked their lives to administer the sacraments became Vianney’s heroes, and once the church was reestablished, Vianney entered seminary. Today we know him as the patron saint of parish priests. May his story inspire us to overcome obstacles that keep us from our God-given vocation, whatever that might be. (Matthew 16:13-23 (410). “You think not as God does, but as human beings do”).
MEMORIAL OF THE DEDICATION OF THE BASILICA OF MARY MAJOR
At home in a house church
Christians first gathered in homes, or “house churches,” before there were dedicated religious buildings. Remember the “upper room” where the disciples received the gift of the Holy Spirit? It was likely one of the first house churches. As Christians could express their faith more freely, churches were built. The Basilica of Mary Major in Rome is one of the most historic and significant churches. It was built from Mary's deep love and significance in salvation history. It holds many important relics, works of art, and the sacred experiences of pilgrims since the fifth century. What is a church that has been especially meaningful for you? “See, upon the mountains there advances the bearer of good news, announcing peace!” (Nahum 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7)
POPE FRANCIS:
Jesus’ parabolic discourse groups together seven parables in the 13th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew and concludes with today’s three parallel stories: the hidden treasure (v. 44), the fine pearl (vv. 45-46) and the fishing net (vv. 47-48). I will pause on the first two, which highlight the protagonists’ decision to sell everything to acquire what they have found. The first case concerns a farmer who casually happens upon a hidden treasure in the field he is working. As the field is not his property, he must purchase it to take possession of the treasure: he, therefore, decides to risk all his possessions so as not to lose that truly exceptional opportunity. In the second case, there is a merchant of precious pearls; as an expert, he has spied a pearl of great value. He, too, decides to wager everything on that pearl to the point of selling all the others.
These parallel stories highlight two characteristics regarding possession of the Kingdom of God: searching and sacrifice. The Kingdom of God is indeed offered to all — it is a gift, it is present, it is a grace — but it does not come on a silver platter: it requires dynamism; it is about searching, journeying, and working hard. The attitude of searching is the essential condition for finding. The heart must burn with the desire to reach the valuable good, that is, the Kingdom of God, which is made present in the person of Jesus. He is the hidden treasure; he is the pearl of great value. He is the fundamental discovery who can make a decisive change in our lives, filling it with meaning.
Faced with the unexpected discovery, both the farmer and the merchant realise that they are facing a unique opportunity that should be noticed; hence, they sell all that they own. Assessing the inestimable value of the treasure leads to a decision that also implies sacrifice, detachment and renunciation. When the treasure and the pearl are discovered, that is, when we have found the Lord, we must not let this discovery become barren but rather sacrifice everything else to acquire it. It is not a question of disdaining the rest but of subordinating them to Jesus, putting him in the first place; grace in the first place. The disciple of Christ has not deprived himself of something essential; he has found much more: he has found the complete joy that only the Lord can give. It is the evangelical joy of the sick who have been healed, of the pardoned sinners, of the thief for whom the doors of heaven open.
The joy of the Gospel fills the heart and the entire life of those who encounter Jesus. Those who allow themselves to be saved by him are freed from sin, sadness, inner emptiness and isolation. With Jesus Christ, joy is always born and reborn (cf. Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, n. 1). Today; we are called to contemplate the joy of the farmer and the merchant in the parables. It is the joy of each of us when we discover the closeness and the comforting presence of Jesus in our lives. A presence that transforms the heart and opens us to the needs and the welcoming of our brothers, especially the weakest.
Let us pray for the intercession of the Virgin Mary so that each of us may know how to bear witness, in daily words and gestures, to the joy of having found the treasure of the Kingdom of God, that is, the love that the Father has given us through Jesus.
Article credit: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2017/documents/papa-francesco_angelus_20170730.html
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Royalty-free stock photo ID: 206282446 - Pope's speech to the young Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Famed01
EXPLORING OUR FAITH - Expression of spirituality
Expression of spirituality
The central beliefs (teachings) key to understanding the faith of the Catholic Church are contained in the Nicene Creed. Catholics proclaim the Creed during their Sunday celebration Mass.
As an integral part of the Sunday liturgy, The Creed affirms what Catholics and other Christians hold to be true. These core beliefs are grounded in the Christian Scriptures.
The Nicene Creed is a statement of belief defined at the Council of Nicea in 325. The Creed reiterates the Christian faith from the Scriptures that:
God is one yet a Trinity of three persons
The birth of Jesus, the Son of God and Son of Mary, is God’s great act of love with us and for us always
God’s Spirit is active within us and the whole of creation
The Church is sent into the world to continue the mission of Son and Spirit in humanity till the end of time
The Nicene Creed
I believe in one God,
the Father almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all things visible and invisible.
I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ,
the Only Begotten Son of God,
born of the Father before all ages.
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father;
through him all things were made.
For us men and for our salvation,
he came down from heaven,
and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary
and became man.
For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate,
he suffered death and was buried,
and rose again on the third day
in accordance with the Scriptures.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory
to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son,
who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified,
who has spoken through the prophets.
I believe in one holy, catholic and apostolic Church.
I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins,
and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead
and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Source: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/teachings-of-the-catholic-church/#key-catholic-beliefs
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety
……………..See overleaf …..
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, 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/)
St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
Urgent Message - Scam Alert!
We have received several messages from people indicating that they have been texted by a scammer impersonating Fr Peter.
Please do not respond to this scammer or do anything they instruct.
The person sends a text saying they are Fr Peter and that he cannot ring as he is in a meeting, but please help me buy gift cards for a sick person.
This is definitely a scam.
The priests of this parish would not ask people to buy gift cards or send money.
We only have the usual collections and appeals via church for official purposes.
Don't even reply to the SMS or email if you get one. You could report it to your phone provider or internet provider.
We do not solicit money or gifts - and please warn anyone else who might not receive this message.,
Yours Sincerely,
Fr Pk
(PS, the same applies to any other priest or member of the church, we would not be seeking money or gifts, and you would be advised not to respond to these sneaky scams).
