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“Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matt 18:20)
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 88938097 - The prophet Jeremiah holding one of his scrolls. Scene from the UNESCO listed byzantine basilica of St Vitalis in Ravenna, Italy. Photo Contributor: mountainpix.
PASTOR’S POST -
Fr Anthony (Antony) Chijioke Odionyenfe has been Appointed our new Assistant Priest to work with Fr Paul.
Archbishop Mark has appointed Fr Anthony Chijioke Odionyenfe to Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. His first name, Anthony, is pronounced as “Antony.”
We thank Archbishop Mark and warmly welcome Fr Anthony to our parish. Fr Anthony will arrive around October 2nd 2023. We know he will receive a heartfelt welcome when he meets the community across the parish next month.
Fr. Anthony is 35 and has been ordained for 7 years.
Before his appointment here, he worked as associate pastor at Caboolture Parish.
Anthony Chijioke Odionyenfe is one of the two priests from Nigeria who arrived in Australia in October 2021 on mission, whilst the world was dealing with covid restrictions.
Following two weeks of solitary quarantine in Brisbane, near the airport, he stayed for some weeks at Our Lady and St. Dympna’s parish, Aspley, St. Columba’s Catholic Church, Wilston, St. Mary’ Catholic Parish, Beaudesert, and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Sunnybank.
It’s been a ride of discovery and learning since his arrival.
Anthony was ordained a priest on the 23rd of July 2016 at Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, in Abia state, Nigeria.
He is the second son and the third child in a family of seven. As a young man, he has been through moments in life, both sad and joyful, and he believes that life always unfolds and that life and living are a learning process and an opportunity to discover something new and how best to make meaning of it in the light of Christ’s gospel. You can call him an enthusiast on this, even though he quietly lives this philosophy. From his growing up, he was taught at a young age, like the rest of his siblings, how to read. So reading, getting involved, developing others, and developing himself is important to him.
God bless his ministry and God bless our parish.
Fr Paul
National Child Protection Week: Safeguarding Sunday
The Parish of Surfers Paradise and the Archdiocese of Brisbane are committed to the care, wellbeing and protection of children, young people and people at risk in our community. Mindful of the theme for National Child Protection Week, may we work to build and support safe communities for all people.
This weekend, the Catholic Church in Australia marks Safeguarding Sunday, on which we pray for those who have been abused, their families and supporters. We recognise and apologise for the harm done by priests, religious and lay people in Church settings. Rebuilding trust and confidence in the Church requires constant work and vigilance. We recommit to cultural change that will help the Church be a place that builds and supports safe communities for all people.
You can find out more about the Church’s work in this area at
www.catholic.au/s/article/safeguardingsunday2023
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 fulfilling their promises on their children's behalf 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)
Leonardo Torcaso, Tina Conidi, 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, Marianne Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Betu Kim, Jan Kristenson, Bob Lahey, Diane & Steve Land, Sue Langham, Patrick Joven de Leon, Nathan Lepp, Joseph Ah Lo, Sarina Losurdo, John Nathaniel Maher, Maria Manuela, Andrew McPherson, Phil McWilliam, Annie Mealing, Fabiola Menzs, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Hugh Morand, Amy Elizabeth Morgan, Michael & Lesley Murtagh, Joanna Muthu, 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, Neil Rogers, Bob Rogers, Kathy Stevens, Jim Stewart, Betty Taylor, Liza Teo, John Thomas, Baby Samuel Timothy, Denise Tracey, Anne Van Deurse, Karen Vestergard, Lois Wood.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Jenifer Margaret Slattery, Carmel Regan, Dorothy Penney, Len Murphy, Anthony Fernandez, Pam Davis, Margaret Redler, Pasqualino Morabito, Janis Delgado, Maryanne Cassar, Dennis Rowan, John Hanly, Dr Frank Miau.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
World Trade Centre Attack Anniv, Vincent Attard, Jane Bird, Fr Dudley Boland, Olive May Cam, Neville John Coorey, Natalie Dundon, Edna Foy, Fr Terence Ganzer, Fay Marie Giovine, Thomas Edward Holt, Leo Isidore Josephson, Briggita Kelleris and Harry Kelleris, Andre Joerg Lenz, Fanny Macky, Maria di Martino, Janina Momont, Patrick Mulcahy, Mario Pase, Fr James Power, Fr Sean Nugent PP, Daniel Simpson, Anthony Joseph Wienand, Doris Zarb.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Judith Alexander, Del Enid Anderson, Carina Faith Barrington, Colin Francis Bingham, Veronica and Alan Bond, Molly Brennan, Franciska Bukowski, Max Butler, Fr Denis Byrne, Phillip Capon, Margaret Coney, Joe Dominiak, Wladyslawa Dominiak, Bishop Edward Doody, Fr Vincent Dwyer, Luciano Fioravanti, Joan Margaret Gibbon, Gordon Peter Gillespie, Josephine Di Giorgio, Fr Thomas Guy, Edna Hamilton, Margaret March (USA), Dr Des McGarry, Bernard William McKay, Helen McMeniman, Fr Joseph Pender, Bożenna Rayson, Antonia Johanna Maria “Tony” de Ruyter, Gina Fortini Sanguigno, Timothy Sullivan, Dean Tamer, Fr Brian Taylor, Willam Wall, Joseph Francis Wherby, Carol Rose Williamson, Louise Marie Young
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
Children’s Bibles and Bible stories suitable for all ages are new to the shops this week.
Titles include ‘My First Bible’, ‘Catholic Children’s Bible’, ‘St Joseph Illustrated Bible’, ‘New Catholic Picture Bible’ and assorted St Joseph story books to name just a few.
The September Catholic Leader available now in all the churches.
.
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-
11/9/2023 Katherine & Erwin Adolfo - Chevron Island
18/9/2023 Gary & Rudi Kamara - Nerang
25/9/2023 Gary & Rudi Kamara - Nerang
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.
MARIAN VALLEY PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on 13.09.2023. The bus will pick up people at 8:15 a.m. 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 phone number with Xavier Solomon at 0404 843 260, Madeleine at 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573. All are welcome.
CO.AS.IT concert
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. 3 Sunlight Drive, Burleigh Waters. Contact sue@suethomas.net.au for more information. Or just turn up by 1.30 p.m. 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.
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 a.m. Learn to relax yet gain greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness and concentration 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 a.m. to prepare adequately for class). For more information, call Ruth on 0421338110.
24 HOURS OF THE HOLY ROSARY FOR THE LOVE OF CHRIST, THE CHURCH, MARY, AND AUSTRALIA “THE LAND OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS”
SHRINE OF OUR LADY HELP OF CHRISTIANS MARIAN VALLEY on 6 – 7 OCTOBER 2023
For more information, please visit this link: https://marianvalley.org.au/2023/08/31/24-hours-of-the-holy-rosary/ or call (07) 5533 3617
“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.
The Sisters of Saint Joseph have prepared an Australian Pilgrimage, “In the Footsteps of Mary MacKillop” commencing in Melbourne on 17 October, journeying through Victoria and South Australia, and ending at Mary MacKillop Place, North Sydney on 28 October 2023. During the pilgrimage, we visit many places associated with Mary MacKillop’s life and ministry. For information please contact national.pilgrimage@mmp.org.au or on 89124818.
LITURGY INSIGHTS (FROM ELIZABETH HARRINGTON)
THE COLLECTION
In the early years of Christianity, the faithful brought bread and wine to church to celebrate 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 offered for the Church's work.
In most parishes, a collection of money is taken up during the Preparation of Gifts. This action is an integral part of the liturgy because our offering links us to the sacrifice of the cross, and the money will be used in the mission of the Church.
Visitors to a Catholic Church are often surprised (and sometimes embarrassed!) when the collection plate comes around a second time at Mass, usually after Communion. 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 CONCLUDING RITES
The Concluding Rites is the shortest and simplest part of the Mass. It consists of brief announcements, the priest’s greeting and blessing and the dismissal of the people.
The announcements keep people informed about the various activities and groups operating in the parish and invite them to participate.
Three options are given for the blessing: Simple Blessing, where the priest blesses the assembly in the name of Father, Son and Spirit; Solemn Blessing, which includes three invocations after each of which the people answer Amen; Prayer over the People, which consists of a collect to which the assembly responds Amen. These last two are always concluded with a Simple Blessing.
The dismissal is not just a way to end the celebration and say farewell to those who have gathered, although both are included. It is a commissioning. We who have united to Christ’s sacrifice in the Eucharist are sent out to live the mystery we have just celebrated, to be the Body of Christ in our homes, communities and workplaces.
Although a hymn is not included among the elements of the Concluding Rites, in most parishes, Mass concludes with the singing of a recessional hymn.
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:
How much would the world change if everyone were completely forgiving? Probably totally! Jesus' stories of forgiveness are so loved because they are so needed. Re-tell them! Re-live them!
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“You, son of man, I have appointed watchman for the house of Israel…”-Ezekiel 33:7
Many of us are generous with our gifts. However, many of us are not generous in proportion to the gifts we have been given. How often do we give at the minimum level required? Remember, the Lord calls us to nurture and develop our gifts and to give back with an increase. He calls us to be generous with all the gifts, especially the one that means the most to us.
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 - The long loneliness.
"The Church" means assembly: It is not good for us to be alone. Today's Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that loneliness is an unhealthy condition. More than 700,000 people die by suicide each year: about 132 a day in the United States. For every suicide, there are more than 20 attempts. Mental illness and substance abuse contribute to the crisis, but marginalised groups are at the highest risk: migrants, indigenous people, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and prisoners. The feeling of alienation is real but also preventable. Call or text a crisis hotline to seek help for yourself or someone you love. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." {Matthew 18:15-20}
Monday, Sep 11, 2023 A day to remember those who gave everything.
Today, the anniversary of the largest terrorist attack in American history is a day to call to mind those who rushed in to help at great cost. The first certified fatality of the attacks was Father Mychal Judge, Franciscan friar and New York City Fire Department chaplain, who rushed to the World Trade Center to help. During his life, he was known for ministering to the marginalised and for the words on a prayer card he often distributed: “Lord, take me where you want me to go. Let me meet who you want me to meet. Tell me what you want me to say. And keep me out of your way.” Honour his legacy and make his humble prayer yours today. Luke 6:6-11 (437). “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?”
Tuesday, Sep 12, 2023: On Earth, we your children, invoke your sweet name.
Names are a big deal in the Bible. More than a moniker, the names of people—and God—capture, convey, and even conjure a being’s very essence. It’s why the Hebrews refused to speak God’s holiest name out of respect and why “taking the Lord’s name in vain” is forbidden. We see in biblical history how life-changing experiences prompt a person’s name to change, as when Sarai becomes Sarah, and Saul becomes Paul. When Jesus talks of acting “in my name,” he affirms a power and presence invoked by simply uttering his name. Today, heed Venerable Bruno Lanteri, founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, who instructed: simply “think of Mary, call on Mary.” MEMORIAL OF THE MOST HOLY NAME OF MARY
TODAY'S READINGS: Colossians 2:6-15; Luke 6:12-19 (438). “He chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, ...” ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2287617037 - Messenger rejected - Photo Contributor: ArtMari
[“’ gospel’ values included in the readings:” the essence of discipleship and faithfulness to God is love, that is formed from within by God’s grace. It fosters loving watchfulness inside and out, softens the heart and saves us from ourselves; it turns us back towards each other and facilitates understanding, healing and reconciliation. Love, not righteousness, is the key to this all.]
All of the readings this weekend are really about the primacy of Love in Christ’s vision for the Kingdom of God. Love, as Saint Paul says, is the fulfilment of all the law… and love is the motivation for the prophet’s words and the driving force for the Christian community and its members to resolve misunderstandings and conflict.
In the first reading, The Lord says to the great prophet Ezekiel… I have made you a sentinel… a watchman…..This is the true key to the role of the prophet…… forget about the fact that it sounds terrible that the prophet will be punished with death if they do not fulfil God’s law… rather… if the prophet is the sentry… the watchman.. their vital role is a role of love and protection and concern for the welfare of everyone..
This image of the watchman reminds me of something I noticed when I visited Rome a few years back… the Firefighters in Rome had a wonderful name… they were called "Vigili del Fuoco," which in English is rather poorly translated as “Firefighters.” just as we use here..// But, that is not actually what the word means.. “firefighter” (the word), tends to give the impression of responder to fire, reacting to the threat of fire. In contrast, the words Vigili del Fuoco means “watcher for fire” - a watchman..// a sentry…// actively looking out for the danger of fire.. caring for the community by watching for danger… alerting them as soon as the danger is seen.. and acting immediately to put out the fire… (that is indeed what firefighters do everywhere, of course, and including in this community… they don’t just respond to fires.. they also engage in community involvement to look into and point out risks and hazards to minimise the risk of fire…
So too with the prophets of old… they were not self-righteous, superior know-it-alls. They were sentries.. they were showing God’s love by watching out for danger and alerting God’s beloved people so they could respond immediately and end the danger… they lovingly/ caringly watch for dangers so as to alert people, so they can act swiftly to get to safety…
it is an act of love and care… No wonder God is so strict with his prophets… saying.. if you fail to warn them, you will suffer the same fate… their role is like a security guard or a military watchman… if they fail to be alert.. if they do not warn people when danger is nigh, they have no regard for the people to protect… and they are guilty of failing to warn and protect… Looking at things that way, one can see God’s absolute love for his people.. and desire that people have every opportunity to live in the light of God’s care and protection.. walking in God’s ways.
God’s Law of love…. Asks all of us to be Vigilant not only against outside dangers but also keep watch within…..…. keep guard and watch over our hearts…. To ensure that we love as God’ loves and that our hearts do not harden into legalism, lack of compassion or mercy…. Or apathy…..… we are all Sentinels… watch-persons.. vigilant for any discord, hatred, or inconsistency with the gospel. And we are vigilant within ourselves, where resentment, jealousy, desire, begins: in the heart…
In the letter to the Romans, we are reminded that love takes different forms. Love is faithful to its commitments and promises; love respects other people’s commitments, love respects life absolutely, love respects other’s property and loves honesty… love respects others’ rights and upholds them… Saint Paul says that love is at the heart of all the commandments.. (As Our Lord taught us first). …
Love is open to resolving misunderstandings, hurts and harm. Reconciliation, understanding and forgiveness are the central core of the gospel… Allowing God to soften our hearts…
When there is conflict or misunderstanding, things that worsen the situation include talking to everyone but the one we have the issue with… Gossip and a culture of festering resentment or complaint… //
The gospel says there is no better way than face to face…
… and (for our modern age), not, heaven forbid, sending flaming texts or emails…..
Even if the meeting of two hearts in openness does not resolve the misunderstanding, ….... but again is centred in charity and love… if things have become so tense, perhaps some independent, wise and loving hearts might be able to help melt the impasse…
Inspired by these readings, I have a favourite saying…. “If one cannot say something with love and charity… don’t say it, because it will do no good.”….
There is a delightful twist at the end of this gospel… All is not as it seems.. If all one's sincere attempts fail, we are told in this gospel to treat the other as a tax collector or a Gentile// .. But here is the catch.. Our Lord has shown us that this does not mean we have lost the other… Tax collectors and gentiles had become Jesus’ disciples and had responded to God’s word… so there is always hope – they are by no means lost to us – nor do we ever give up on someone…..- love and charity always prevail…..
The essence of discipleship and faithfulness to God is love, which is formed from within by God's grace.
It fosters loving watchfulness inside and out, softens the heart and saves us from ourselves; it turns us back towards each other and creates understanding, healing and reconciliation.
Love, not righteousness, is the key to all of this.
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; Bergant, D. and Fragomeni, R. (2001). Preaching the new lectionary. Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press. P. 340; Barclay, W. (2009). The gospel of Matthew. Edinburgh: Saint Andrew.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2287617037 - Messenger rejected - Photo Contributor: ArtMari
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
The Most Holy Name of Mary.
The commemoration began in Spain in 1513. The feast was extended to the entire Church following the defeat of Muslim armies at Vienna on this day in 1683 by a Polish army fighting under the name of Mary. By her name, Christians refer to the person of the Virgin Mary, mother of God and mother of the Church.
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Originally, this day commemorated the dedication of Constantine's Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in the fourth century; after the celebration, the wood of the cross was venerated. The feast spread in the West after recovering the relics of the cross from Persia in the seventh century. A feast of the Lord, it celebrates the "lifting up" of the Son of Man on the cross into glory and the paradox of the cross as a sign of humiliation and death, yet the source of victory and life.
Our Lady of Sorrows
This commemoration originated in the medieval devotion to the seven sorrows of Mary. Approved for the Servite order in the seventeenth century, it was extended to the whole Western Church in 1814 by Pius VII in thanksgiving for his release from captivity under Napoleon. In the light of Simeon's prophecy about a sword piercing Mary's soul (Luke 2:35), the feast celebrates Mary, the first disciple and the first to share in the pain and triumph of the cross.
The 7 Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary:
The First Sorrow: The Prophecy of Simeon and Anna
The Second Sorrow: The Flight into Egypt.
The Third Sorrow: The three days' loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple.
The Fourth Sorrow: The Condemnation of Jesus.
The Fifth Sorrow: The Crucifixion of Jesus.
The Sixth Sorrow: The Retrieval of Jesus' Body.
The Seventh Sorrow: The Burial of Jesus.
Saint John Chrysostom
“Prayer is the place of refuge for every worry, a foundation for cheerfulness, a source of constant happiness, a protection against sadness.”
“If you cannot find Christ in the beggar at the church door, you will not find Him in the chalice.”
“Happiness can only be achieved by looking inward & learning to enjoy whatever life has, and this requires transforming greed into gratitude.”
“Be ashamed when you sin, don't be ashamed when you repent [To repent means to change your heart and mind. It is not simply a sorrow but a spiritual growth away from evil/death and a turning to God/life]. Sin is the wound, and repentance is the medicine. Sin is followed by shame, and repentance is followed by boldness - [Boldness means to beg God for undeserved mercy]. Satan has overturned this order and given boldness to sin and shame to repentance.”
“Not to share our own wealth with the poor is theft from the poor and deprivation of their means of life; we do not possess our own wealth, but theirs.” Saint John Chrysostom.
“The bee is more honoured than other animals, not because she labours, but because she labours for others.”
“Why not learn to enjoy the little things- For there are so many of them.”
St Cyprian
“You cannot have God for your Father if you do not have the Church for your mother…. God is one, and Christ is one, and His Church is one; one is the faith, and one is the people cemented together by harmony into the strong unity of a body…. If we are the heirs of Christ, let us abide in the peace of Christ; if we are the sons of God, let us be lovers of peace.”…St Cyprian from The Unity of the Catholic Church.
“You who are envious, let me tell you that however often you may seek for the opportunity of injuring him whom you hate, you will never be able to do him so much harm as you do harm to yourselves. He whom you would punish through the malice of your envy may probably escape, but you will never be able to fly from yourselves.”
Let us remember one another in concord and unanimity. Let us on both sides of death always pray for one another. Let us relieve burdens and afflictions by mutual love, that if one of us, by the swiftness of divine condescension, shall go hence the first, our love may continue in the presence of the Lord and our prayers for our brethren and sisters not cease in the presence of the Father’s mercy. (St. Cyprian to St. Cornelius).
POPE FRANCIS: Christians called to heal 'epidemic of enmity,' papal messenger says
(image: Secretary of State of the Holy See Cardinal Pietro Parolin speaking).
In a world suffering from an "epidemic of enmity," Christians can offer healing by recognising each person as a child of God and reaching out in friendship, said a top Vatican official, writing on behalf of Pope Francis.
The pope's hope for the Meeting in Rimini, an annual event sponsored by the Communion and Liberation movement, is that each participant would learn more about "approaching others in the way of Jesus, who always stretches out his hand, always seeks to lift up, to act so that people heal, are happy and encounter God," said the message signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state.
The Vatican released the message Aug. 18, two days before the Aug. 20-25 event in Rimini, Italy. Hundreds of thousands of people, mostly university students, participate in the meeting, which offers Mass, conferences and workshops, concerts and theatrical performances.
The theme for the 2023 gathering is "Human Existence is an Inexhaustible Friendship," a quote from Communion and Liberation founder Father Luigi Giussani about how faith in Jesus, who called his followers "friends," dissolves solitude and empowers friendship with others.
Parolin told organisers that the theme is "bold because it runs countercurrent at a time marked by individualism and indifference."
"War and divisions are sowing rancour and fear in people's hearts, and those who are different from me are often perceived as rivals," the cardinal wrote. "Communication, which is global and pervasive, turns this widespread attitude into a mentality in which differences seem to be symptoms of hostility, and one sees a kind of epidemic of enmity."
Quoting Pope Francis, the cardinal said the answer is found in faith and in believing God "sends us his son, he gives him to us, he hands him over, he shares him so that we can learn the way of fraternity, of self-giving. Definitively, he opens a new horizon; he is a new word that sheds light on so many situations of exclusion, disintegration, loneliness and isolation. He is a word which breaks the silence of loneliness."
"An attitude of openness to others as brothers or sisters is one of the distinctive traits of the pontificate of Pope Francis, of his witness and his magisterium," Parolin said.
In a world where tensions and divisions seem to be increasing, he said, "Speeches are not enough."
Quoting Pope Francis again, he told participants that "we need concrete gestures and shared choices aimed at building a culture of peace where each one of us lives, reconciling with family members, friends and neighbours, praying for those who hurt us, recognising and helping those in need, speaking words of peace at school, university or in society, 'anointing' with closeness those who feel alone."
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 439955359 - Secretary of State of the Holy See Cardinal Pietro Parolin. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Drop of Light
Article credit: CINDY WOODEN - CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE. Vatican City — August 18, 2023
EXPLORING OUR FAITH -
The purpose of life
We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. John 10:10
Catholics believe that the purpose of life is to have life and have it more abundantly. For this reason we constantly try to love God with all our heart, mind and soul and our neighbour as ourselves.
Why am I here?- is a question asked by humans throughout the ages. Each one of us at some stage in our lives looks for true meaning and purpose in our existence. This particularly occurs when we are faced with life’s joys and its challenges of anxiety, loss and grief. God calls us to seek God, know and love God. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, ccc, sec. 1)
It is through understanding that Jesus, the Son of God, who lived on earth as a human, worked with human hands, thought with a human mind, acted by human choice, loved with a human heart and died for the forgiveness of our sins that we can begin to comprehend our reason for being. (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, GS 23, 24)
One reason for being is to learn to love ourselves and others as God loves us – enough to give over His own Son for the love of humankind. In this way we are gradually transformed into persons who can live and love like God does, becoming ready to live and love with God forever, which brings about an internal change and a conscious relationship with God.
How can I explore this relationship with God? This can be done through prayer, reading, and engaging in education in faith through specific courses and/or within a faith community. You may find opportunities to do this within your local parish or by contacting Evangelisation Brisbane:
Source: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/teachings-of-the-catholic-church/#the-purpose-of-life
A MESSAGE FROM ARCHBISHOP MARK COLERIDGE OF BRISBANE
The Referendum on the Voice brings Australia to a threshold moment, since it looks not only to our past but to our future, not only to what we have been but to what we can become.
There is no doubt that Australia has achieved great things since European settlement, and that is a source of national pride. But Australians are increasingly coming to appreciate the devastation that European settlement has brought to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Australia’s first Catholic bishop, the English Benedictine John Bede Polding, spoke plainly of their treatment.
In 1842 he wrote, “The life of an (Aboriginal) human being is valued no more than the life of a kangaroo, and far less than that of a bullock”. Later he wrote, “The Aborigine will demand, ‘What right have you to come here? We have not asked you to come, and you take away our lands, you drive away our means of subsistence’.” Polding went on to denounce “occupation by force, accompanied by murders, ill-treatment, ravishment of their women…the white man coming for his own advantage, without any regard to their rights”. He concluded,
“I am making myself [an Aborigine], putting myself in that position, taking away all that I know except that this is my country, that my father lived by pursuing the emu and the kangaroo, that I am driven away from my hunting grounds, that my children and tribe are subjected to the grossest barbarities.”
There emerged in time a policy of assimilating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples into mainstream Australian culture. However well-intentioned it may have seemed, the policy led to the dissolution of Indigenous culture. We are now familiar with the concept of terra nullius (that before European settlement, the land belonged to no one), the tragedy of the Stolen Generation and the fact that the prior habitation of the First Nations peoples was not recognised in the Australian Constitution.
Australians are now being asked to consider a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament and to executive government, which was asked for in the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The hope is that this will not only offer constitutional recognition but also assist towards a more just and equitable Australia, helping to tackle not just the symptoms but the causes of chronic disadvantage.
In response, we need first to see the truth of the suffering of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the disadvantages many experience today as a result. Justice demands that we seek to rectify this disadvantage and its consequences.
We also need to listen to the Indigenous peoples, in order to learn from them and learn to love them, not see them as “the other”. Pope Francis has said of the Indigenous peoples of the Amazon and how best to engage with them on issues particular to them: “They are our principal dialogue partners, those from whom we have the most to learn. Their words, hopes and fears should be the most authoritative voice at the table. Otherwise, the result would be, once again, ‘a plan drawn up by the few for the few.” The same could be said of the Indigenous peoples of Australia.
In 1986 at Alice Springs, Pope St John Paul II said to the Aboriginal people: “You are part of Australia, and Australia is part of you. And the Church herself in Australia will not be fully the Church that Jesus wants her to be until you have made your contribution to her life and until that contribution has been joyfully received”. Pope Francis and Pope John Paul ask us to listen to the Indigenous peoples and to receive joyfully what they have to offer the whole nation and the world.
Regrettably, the debate on the Voice has been politicised to the point where it is being enacted, as Andrew Hamilton SJ has noted, “as a battle between the Yes and the No side in which the task is not to unite the nation but to smash the opposition”. But the issues surrounding the Voice are not primarily political; they are, at their heart, moral and ethical, which makes this essentially a conscience vote.
For Christians, it is also a summons to see the issues through the lens of the Gospel and ultimately with the eye of Jesus, who is not above or apart from the Referendum process.
Therefore, all Australians need to educate themselves on the issues, asking not so much what we might lose but what the nation might gain. One part of this would be a careful and open-minded reading of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
The status quo is not an option because the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia is growing wider rather than closing. Therefore, I urge everyone in the Archdiocese to prepare to vote in a way that looks to the Gospel and, whatever the result of the Referendum, to commit to redressing the chronic disadvantage suffered by the Indigenous peoples and promoting reconciliation for the good, not just of some but of the whole nation.
+Mark Coleridge Archbishop of Brisbane
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 archdiocesan priests.
Technology Solutions is aware of a series of text messages sent to staff purporting 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, not the person's number.
Please do not respond to this scammer or do anything they instruct.
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).
The person sends a text saying they are the name of a familiar priest (for example) and that this person cannot ring as he is in a meeting, but please help me buy gift cards for a sick person.
This is definitely a scam.
Priests would not ask people to buy gift cards or send money. We only have the usual collections and appeals via church for official purposes.
Do not reply to the SMS or email if you get one. Please report it as indicated in the paragraphs above. (that is, 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).
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 seek money or gifts, and you would be advised not to respond to these sneaky scams).
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