PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid” - (Matthew 14:27)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2168682613 - Torun, Poland, May 10, 2022: Inside the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Star of the New Evangelization and St. John Paul II in Torun. A painting showing walking on water. Important information: Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: DyziO
TUESDAY 15TH AUGUST - THE SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Tuesday week 15th August, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is a holy day of obligation. Two Masses will be celebrated in our Parish at the
Sacred Heart Church, 50 Fairway Drive Clear Island Waters,
at 9 am Tuesday morning and 6 pm Tuesday evening.
PARISH GATHERING - IMPORTANT CONSULTATION
As we know, Fr Peter Dillon has concluded his time at Surfers Paradise parish, and Fr Paul Kelly has been appointed Administrator.
As part of this transition, you are invited to a parish gathering with two representatives from the College of Consultors who will take time to listen to parishioners’ thoughts on the mission, vision, and unique charism of Surfers Paradise Parish. This information will be provided to Fr Paul Kelly in due course.
The gathering will occur on Thursday, 31 August 2023, at 6:30 pm at The Parish Hospitality Centre. 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. All are welcome. We hope you can attend.
Yours sincerely in Christ,
Fr Dan Ryan, Vicar for Clergy
ANNUAL CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN - In Parishes: 19 - 20 AUGUST 2023
Next weekend, our parish is delighted to support the Annual Catholic Campaign. It is the one time a year that all of the parishes in the Archdiocese come together to help vital works of our church and the local community.
Funds raised will support ministries that directly impact this parish. The Campaign supports training future priests, caring for our elderly and retired priests, helping local families in dire need of Catholic education and caring for those suffering physically and emotionally in our community.
Please do take a Campaign brochure and giving envelope with you when you go today. You can either pop it in the mail or return it next week. Of course, you can also fill it in today and place it in the collection.
Thank you, and God bless.
We are called to be the face, hands and heart of Christ in our communities.
Every day, God showers us with blessings so that we will have gifts to share.
Through your kindness and generosity, we unite as a Catholic community to reach out to serve others - the homeless, the marginalised, the elderly, our future priests in formation and families in dire circumstances.
The Archdiocese of Brisbane is a vibrant and dynamic Church - nowhere is this more visible than in the cooperative effort of the Annual Catholic Campaign. The Campaign supports vital ministries around South East Queensland and relies on the generosity of our parishioners. Thank you for your generous support - your gift is precious, and we truly appreciate all you do to grow our community through the Annual Catholic Campaign.
https://catholicfoundation.org.au/ways-to-help/annual-catholic-campaign/
Support Centacare Social Services: Through your generous support, Centacare provides help and hope to transform lives and enrich communities.
When you make a gift to support Centacare’s vital work, your kindness restores a sense of personal dignity to marginalised people, alone and in vulnerable circumstances. It is a silent affirmation that there is good in the world and a supportive network within reach.
CARE TODAY TO GIVE A BETTER TOMORROW
Domestic And Family Violence Support
Did you know that 60% of women impacted by domestic violence are currently in the workforce, quietly suffering?
In Australia, an estimated 2.2 million women have experienced coercive control in their relationships. They stay quiet behind a mask in professional and social situations as they fear violence, stigma and shame.
When you donate to support this vital service, you help turn houses into homes for women and children escaping domestic and family violence. You provide an avenue of escape and a road to healing – both physically and emotionally.
READ MORE → GIVE NOW →
https://catholicfoundation.org.au/ways-to-help/annual-catholic-campaign/
REST IN PEACE - PAM DAVIS
One of our dear Saturday Vigil regulars at Sacred Heart Church, Pam Davis, has passed away on the Solemnity of the Transfiguration.
You may remember Pam for her lovely bright personality. She was a very willing helper. Her faith and the parish community were so important to her. She radiated the light of Christ to everyone she met.
She was also a great Netball player and an inspiring coach and mentor to many. She also had a butcher shop at Pacific Fair in the early days.
Pam has been battling seriously ill for some time and, after a brief return to Mass, has been unable to be with us for several weeks.
Many of our Saturday Vigil family will want to be able to say goodbye too. Please keep the response of the souls of Pam and the consolation of her family and friends in your prayers.
Pam’s funeral Mass will be Tuesday, 22nd August 2023. At Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 10.30 am.
God bless and keep her always.
World Youth Day - Our Parish Representatives, as pilgrims to World Youth Day 2023, were parishioners Jeunita and Jeunesse, Antao and Alec De Sousa. Please keep them in your prayers as they return to Australia from Lisbon.
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 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.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK:
Also, (Alphabetical) Lorraine Gallagher, Jack Barretto, Julie & Paul Bowden, Nellie Bellinger, Jean Di Benedetto, Coralie Brennan, Kevin Brennan, Tim Brown, Margaret Buckingham, Diana Castro, Felipe S Cataquiz (Senior), Cecily Cellinan, Doug Chester, Jo Clark, Leslie Clarke, Margaret & George Cook, Alfonso Covino, Margaret Cusack, Geraldine Daniels, John Fisher, Rosie May Fisher, Sally Gage, Laurel Goddard, Ken Green, Fred Grioli, Jacob Haddad, Jenny Haines, Peter Harford, Lena Hiscock, Louise Holmes, Kim Ingram, Anna Janiek, Pat Jones, Leona Kelly, Kath Kiely, Betu Kim, Jan Kristenson, 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, Hugh Morand, 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, Bob Rogers, Kathy Stevens, Jim Stewart, Betty Taylor, Liza Teo, John Thomas, Baby Samuel Timothy, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Anne Van Deurse, Karen Vestergard, Lois Wood.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Anthony Fernandez (Pakistan), Rosario Delpopolo (Brisbane), Noeline Phyllis Laker Messenger, Pam Davis, Margaret Redler, Margot Goldburg, Four Army Aviators who died in the Whitsundays helicopter crash: Captain Danniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph Laycock and Corporal Alexander Naggs. Ralph Tobiano, Tommie O’Grady, Pasqualino Morabito, Janis Delgado, Maryanne Cassar, Dennis Rowan, John Hanly, Beverly Ann Morand, Denham De Silva, Paddy Hoolahan, Carlo Boladian, Barbara Mary Currie, Marcia McCausland, Rebecca O’Reilly, Fritz Bower, Beatriz Dos Santos, Pat Goddard, Rodney McLennan, Domizio Gandini, Rocco Bellantoni, Jack Cartwright, Luciano Albergo, Antonio Invernizzi, Daniel Clancy, Don Brinkworth, Dr Frank Miau.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Barry John Arderne, Carolyn Cameron, Fr Bryan Carmichael, Maria Di Certo, Frank Covino, Bernie Crane, John Davis, John Joseph Despard, Gary Foster, John Richard Gardner, Dorothy Heather Girle, Peter and Evelyn Hill, Fr Michael Greene, Peter George Jitani, Justin McCarthy King, Fr Joe McGeehan, Patricia Medway, Marija (Marie) Ivka (nee Sunich) Mercep, Sarah Nealon, Marie Peters, Giuseppina Rovella, Rose Mary Saldanha, Tessie Guevarra Thompson.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Tessie Guevara Thompson, Michael George Armstrong, Janine Ailsa (Jan) Bastian, Mary (Molly) Biltoft, Aleksandra Bodziak-Zbierowska, Fr Brian Bolton, Alyce Catherine Boswell, Fr Con Busser, George Busuttil, Nea Mary Butler, Charles Cam, Mons Vincent Cleary, Fr Mark Cosgrove, Eileen Coyle, Joan Degan, Gloria June Louise Diamond, Wayne John Egan, Vera Endrody, Roslyn Mary Fisher, Russell Forrestal, Gary Foster, Stewart Gallagher, Paolo Mario (Paul) Giacomantonio, Margaret Gore, Shirley Ann Hishon, Nicholas Anthony Kyle (two days old) (his brother also passed away in infancy), Brian Edmund Jones, Bozo Kardum, Fausto Mascia, Fausto Mascia, Noelle Hope Matthew, Fr Francis McKinlay, Francesco Mennella, Bruce Milgate, Patrick Needham, Fr Arthur O'Keeffe, John Joseph Sesta, Reg Sheehan, Patricia (Pat) Sievers, Fr Liam Horsfall SVD, Fr Hilary Turner, Joe Vella.
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
Beautiful rosary beads, statues, prayer cards and much more available in our shops, which are open before and after Mass each weekend. Other times, please contact the Parish Office, phone 56717388 9 am-12 pm Monday-Friday. The August edition of The Catholic Leader available now only $4
Inside this month’s LeaderBrisbane warmly welcomes three new priests
Coverage of Bishop Howell’s installation in Toowoomba
Catholic Education Week
BINGO MORNING (17/8/23)
Our Bingo Morning will be on this Thursday, the 17th of August 10 am-2 pm. Admission is $20.00 and includes 1 Bingo Card, Raffle Tickets, Door Prizes, Morning tea and Lunch. We welcome New Parishioners and our current Parishioners who have not come for this function. Please ring Maxine Sela at 0421051193, or Wendy Webb at 0412237832, if you are coming.
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-
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This month Aid to the Church in Need is raising money to support Sisters in Paraguay. These Sisters not only care for the young people in Paraguay but they also support the families, visit the sick and the elderly, bring Holy Communion to those in need, give catechetical instruction and support disadvantaged with practical help and advice. To learn more and to make an offering visit www.aidtochurch.org/monthlyproject or scan the QR code.
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.
THE BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL
The BOLD and BEAUTIFUL Friendship Group are meeting at 12noon for lunch on Thursday, 24th August at FASTWOK, Q-Super Centre in Mermaid Waters. All are welcome. If you need more information please contact Amanda Rowe at 0421 487 009.
“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.
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:
Why is it that we lack real trust when the Lord calls us? We think we may drown, or must give up too much, or fear failure. These attitudes can help to strengthen our faith in the Lord.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“He said, ‘Come.’Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.” -Matthew 14:29
When you hear Jesus calling, do you respond immediately and trust that He knows what He’s doing? If so, you are walking on water! When we say “yes” to Jesus, we feel the power of his presence in our lives. We can feel the freedom it gives us! Listen to how Jesus is calling you to live the extraordinary life He has intended for you. 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 (article origin - USA) - Value your Vocation
Immigrant Catholic families faced the nightmare of living one step away from ruin in the 19th century when only the least desirable and most dangerous jobs were available to them. Knights of Columbus founder Michael McGivney had to leave the seminary to support his family after his father's death. Ordained later, McGivney determined to build a community dedicated to protecting vulnerable families and spent his priesthood promoting the valuable vocation of the laity. Continue the legacy with your own vocation, religious or lay, equally valued and necessary. “At once Jesus spoke to them, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’ " (Matthew 14:27).
“As the visions during the night continued, I saw: One like a Son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven.” Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; 2. ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL - Walk in Jesus’ Footsteps?
[Gospel’ values included in the readings: God is to be found in the ‘sound of sheer silence’ not necessarily in dramatics of storm and earthquake and wind./ Trust in Jesus, who stills the storms/ The kind of love, (unconditional, faithful, outward-looking), is needed to begin to understand God’s relationship to his people; and it is expressed beautifully by Saint Paul in this passage of the Romans… his affection and dedication was so deep that he would willingly have allowed himself to be “cut off”^ if it would have done any good in saving his people and reconnecting them to God’s favour)].
In the first reading, Elijah meets God; whose presence is indicated by a “tiny whispering sound” ….or as a “gentle breeze” ... which is also translated as “the sound of sheer silence”.... And then, in the Gospel, Jesus is encountered taming the wild, raging, stormy waters…… God is gentle and also profound and is more powerful than ANY storms, dramas or “clamours” in life…. God is quiet and also authoritative (not needing to “out-yell” contrary voices). His quiet but profound TRUTH will prevail over even the biggest, loudest and scariest of situations.
And so, whether it be storms or silence… / dramatic or ordinary… the message is the same… God is present and active amongst us and with us…. and the signs are there… if we search and listen with the “eyes and ears” of faith.
We can be drawn to look for and discover God in “the dramatic” and in extraordinary moments... But we can sometimes miss the presence, action and voice of God in the ordinary, the quiet, the everyday moments.
In a world filled with noise, clamour and busyness, it is even more vital than ever that we listen for the voice of God in silence, and in times of reflection and prayer.
In our regular prayer (in addition to our favourite recited prayers), we also add times of silence, stillness and listening. And also times of spiritual reading of the Scriptures; .. so that God’s “still, small voice” can be discerned over the clamour and noise of life (even the noise created by our ever-busy and “at-times-distracted” minds).
We have learnt all too well that the loudest voices in the world are not necessarily the ones that hold the key to eternal truth... Jesus’ voice was by no means the loudest voice of his time, but his message is ultimate truth and life, and his gentle, quiet voice of truth has travelled further down the centuries than any other voice ever could.
A witty commentator once wrote, rather cleverly...: “What good is it having a leader who can walk on water, unless you can follow in his footsteps?” - But this gospel makes it very clear… if we really ARE going to follow in the footsteps of Jesus….then we need to hold tight to Christ’s hand at all times……
Following Our Lord leads us into uncertain waters…. unchartered territory…. We need to trust our leader completely… We must not allow ourselves to doubt that Jesus is our Lord… He does have the words of eternal life.. he does love us and care for us… and want only the very best for us…. // We must be willing to be “called forth” by Christ in the very heart of the storm… and to trust in his companionship with us…through all the “ups and downs” and storms of life…… and that takes enormous courage… //enormous trust…… //
St Peter shows us this… and he shows us the real fears and doubts that can be experienced along the way….
Peter’s encounter with Jesus is interesting … he says….“if it is you, Lord,… (if it is you??... He doubts still…..)…. Bid me to come across the water”.. and Our Lord does call him……… but
Peter sinks without Jesus….
Peter’s ministry, (and our ministry,// our lives)… are essentially connected to Jesus… /./ Without Jesus, we’re sunk !……. We need to stay next to Jesus and close to his message or else we’re well and truly out of our depth….
Saint Peter clearly also represents us (the “church”) …So, we come to understand ourselves by standing in Saint Peter’s shoes. Being human, we will always be vulnerable, not simply to harm but also to fear, doubt and hesitation. The storm will frighten us, and the sea could well drown us. These fears are quite real; the challenge is to live boldly despite (or beyond) the fear and the danger. We have to be willing to get out of the boat, with heart pounding and mind racing, our eyes always fixed on Jesus and his command: “Come to me…. Walk with me! ” #
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; #* Alice Camille; ^WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE LETTER TO THE ROMANS.REVISED EDITION. 1975. The Saint Andrew Press. Edinburgh, Scotland.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 610736078 - Cave hole entrance in mountain rocks. Photo Contributor: Lillac
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. Maximilian Kolbe
"No one in the world can change Truth. What we can do and should do is to seek truth and to serve it when we have found it. The real conflict is the inner conflict. Beyond armies of occupation and the hetacombs of extermination camps, there are two irreconcilable enemies in the depth of every soul: good and evil, sin and love. And what use are the victories on the battlefield if we ourselves are defeated in our innermost personal selves?" ― St. Maximilian Kolbe
"So that obedience be supernatural, it must not proceed from reason, but from faith." ― St. Maximilian Kolbe, Let Yourself Be Led by the Immaculate. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/551010.Maximilian_Kolbe )
AUGUST 15 - S - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
“While she lived on this earth, she could only be close to a few people. Being in God, who is close to us, actually “within” all of us, Mary shares in this closeness of God. Being in God and with God, she is close to each one of us, knows our hearts, can hear our prayers, can help us with her motherly kindness and has been given to us, as the Lord said, precisely as a “mother” to whom we can turn at every moment.”
“St Augustine says: “Before conceiving the Lord in her body, she had already conceived him in her soul”. She had made room for the Lord in her soul and thus really became the true Temple where God made himself incarnate, where he became present on this earth. Thus, being God’s dwelling place on earth, the eternal dwelling place has already been prepared; it has already been prepared forever. And this constitutes the whole content of the Dogma of the Assumption of Mary, body and soul, into heavenly glory, expressed here in these words. Mary is “blessed” because – totally, in body and soul and forever – she became the Lord’s dwelling place. If this is true, Mary does not merely invite our admiration and veneration, but she guides us, shows us the way of life, how we can become blessed, how to find the path of happiness.”
AUGUST 16 - Saint Stephen of Hungary
“Be HUMBLE in this life, that God may raise you in the next. Be truly MODERATE and do not punish or condemn anyone immoderately. Be GENTLE so that you may never oppose justice. Be HONOURABLE so that you may never voluntarily bring disgrace upon anyone. Be CHASTE so that you may avoid all the foulness of lust like the pangs of death.”
“Be merciful to all who are suffering violence, keeping always in your heart the example of the Lord who said, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.'”
“Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life; rather, look to them with full hope that as they arise, God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely through all things and when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms. Do not fear what may happen tomorrow; the same understanding Father who cares for you today, will take care of you then and every day.
AUGUST 19 - Saint John Eudes, priest
“Let us, therefore, give ourselves to God with a great desire to begin to live thus, and beg Him to destroy in us the life of the world of sin, and to establish His life within us.”
“A Christian has a union with Jesus Christ nobler, more intimate and more perfect than the members of a human body have with their head.” -- John Eudes
“Faith is a beam radiating from the face of God.”
“Our wish, our object, our chief preoccupation must be to form Jesus in ourselves, to make his spirit, devotion, affections, desire, and disposition live and reign there.”
“Any innovation in matters of faith is extremely pernicious and utterly damnable!”
POPE FRANCIS:
“To participate in WYD is something beautiful,” said Pope Francis in a video message to the teens and young adults attending World Youth Day 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. “Prepare yourselves with that enthusiasm. Put hope in that. Have hope ... because one grows a lot at an event like WYD.”
Over the course of his papacy, the Holy Father has exhorted young people at World Youth Day (WYD) to answer the Gospel call and accept Jesus into their hearts.
“Do not be afraid to go and to bring Christ into every area of life,” the Holy Father said on July 28, 2013, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. World Youth Day held local diocesan celebrations on Palm Sunday in 2014. In his message to young people that year, the Holy Father said: “Young people who choose Christ are strong. ... Have the courage to be truly happy!”
In his 2015 message for World Youth Day, which the Church celebrated in local dioceses, Pope Francis said, “The greatest good we can have in life is our relationship with God.”
In his homily for Sunday Mass in Krakow, Poland, for WYD 2016, Pope Francis encouraged, “Don’t let your soul grow numb but aim for the goal of a beautiful love, which also demands sacrifice.”
Catholics celebrated in their dioceses for WYD 2017. In his message, Pope Francis said of the Magnificat, “Faith is at the heart of Mary’s entire story.” In his WYD 2018 message, the Pope encouraged, “The Lord wants us to be free from fear, every day of the year.” The Pope said on Jan. 26, 2019, at WYD in Panama, “The first step is not to be afraid to welcome life as it comes, not to be afraid to embrace life as it is!”
In 2020, the Church celebrated WYD in local dioceses, and Francis encouraged youth, “Be bearers of hope in this world.” WYD 2021 was also celebrated locally. Pope Francis pointed out, “Those who are convinced that they know everything ... will find it hard to encounter Christ.” In 2022, WYD was local. In his message, Francis explained, “We’re saved by Jesus because he loves us.”
Looking ahead to Lisbon, the Pope spoke on Nov. 21, 2021: “I hope that all of us can experience these steps along the way as true pilgrims and not merely as ‘religious tourists’! May we be increasingly open to God’s surprises ... to hearing his voice ... and, at this troubled time in our history, we will become the prophets of a new and hope-filled future!”
Article credit: https://www.ncregister.com/features/pope-francis-world-youth-day-words-inspiring-messages-for-youth
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2331837225 - Lisbon. Portugal. A billboard display on the facade of Lisbon Cathedral of the coming visit by Pope Francis during the World Youth Day festival. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Yau Ming Low
EXPLORING OUR FAITH - Love and its consequence: Social Justice, at the heart of the Gospel
As you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me. (Matthew 25:40)
Catholics are a community made up of many different people united in a common bond of love. There are many different faces to the Catholic community. This is because the message of Jesus is for all people, everywhere. The word ‘catholic’ means ‘universal, all embracing’.
We share a family-like bond that is based upon the spiritual bond of our common faith. Catholics believe in one loving and compassionate God who is with us in every moment of our existence.
Being Catholic is a way of life in which we are united by our belief and our bond with each other. We believe that through the presence of the Holy Spirit we embody the living presence of Jesus Christ. This requires us to strive for unity in our everyday life in very practical ways such as: praying together, assisting others in times of struggle, resolving our differences with love and patience, celebrating and socialising together, sharing our gifts, skills and possessions with others.
God also calls us to gather together in worship. The Mass is the central act of worship for Catholics. It is in the Mass that we celebrate that Jesus died for us and rose again. It is in the Mass that we believe that Jesus comes among his people once again. It is an important event for Catholics.
The Catholic Community’s life of support for others is not restricted just to Catholics. It extends to the wider community. This may happen at a personal level wherever we show hospitality or friendship to others and it also happens through our church organisations which include: hospitals and clinics, schools, counselling clinics, missionary and relief agencies and organisations that care for the poor and homeless.
Our social justice teachings motivate the way in which the Catholic community influences the wider society. The Church accepts the responsibility to work for peace and justice where people are oppressed by circumstances such as war, unjust social conditions or political persecution.
INTENDED MARRIAGE PROCLAMATION (AS PER REQUEST OF OVERSEAS DIOCESE) (Week III)
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.
(transl):
With the favour of God and the Holy Mother Church, they want to marry: BENJAMIN RYAN and FABIOLA LERCH DUARTE. He is the son of DANIEL GLIFFORD RYAN and ZVIA RYAN, a resident for 1 year at SURFERS PARADISE.
CATHOLIC PARISH - AUSTRALIA. She is 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. Fr Parish Priest. Please publish and inform.
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 various priests of the archdiocese.
Technology Solutions is aware of a series of text messages being sent to staff reporting to come from Archdiocesan Clergy. This offers a timely reminder to check all electronic communications carefully. On inspection, the eagle-eyed will notice the number is from an international phone number and not from the person's real number.
(in this instance, Fr X was the person being impersonated). We recommend if you or other parishioners receive this SMS message (and any other illegitimate SMS) please forward the SMS to 0429999888 (this is the Australian Government spam reporting line).
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. Please report it as indicated in the paragraphs above.
We do not solicit money or gifts - and please warn anyone else who might not receive this message.,
(PS, the same applies to any other priest or church member, we would not be seeking money or gifts, and you would be advised not to respond to these sneaky scams).
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