PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“Have we not all one father? Has not one God created us? Why then are we faithless to one another, profaning the covenant of our ancestors?”
(Malachi 2:10)
Image Credit- The Face of Jesus, by Rodney Antony. Gold Coast. 2023.
We pray for the repose of the soul of Pascual (‘Pacquing’) Tantengco Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Our prayers are with his beloved wife, Emma Maria (nee Varsovia) Tantengco, in their 52nd year of marriage, and for all their family and friends. May Pascual Rest in the Peace of Christ.
Pastor’s Post: Mottos for Living
You have probably seen Family Crests - you may even have one for your family. They often have a motto representing values important to the person or the family. Some of them are in Latin; some are in English. Anyone can have or choose a family crest and motto. It is good to think of the values that guide and lead us in our life. They say much about our priorities.
Pope Francis has this Crest and Motto.
At the top of the shield is the emblem of the Pope's religious order, the Society of Jesus (Also known as the Jesuits), a radiant sun carrying the letters in red, ihs, the monogram of Jesus. A cross crowns the letter H; beneath the letters are three black nails.
Lower down on the shield, there is a star and spikenard flower. According to ancient tradition, the star symbolises the Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ and the Church, while the spikenard symbolises St Joseph, the Patron of the Universal Church. In traditional Hispanic iconography, St Joseph is shown with a vine in his hand. By bearing these images on his shield, the Pope communicates his extraordinary devotion to the Most Holy Virgin and to St Joseph.
The motto of Pope Francis is an extraordinary quote, taken from a passage from the venerable Bede, Homily 21 (CCL 122, 149-151), on the Feast of Matthew, which reads: “Vidit ergo Jesus publicanum, et quia miserando atque eligendo vidit, ait illi, ‘Sequere me’.” [Jesus, therefore, sees the tax collector, and since he sees by having mercy and choosing, he says to him, ‘Follow me’.] This quoted homily is a tribute to Divine Mercy and is read during the Liturgy of the Hours on the Feast of St Matthew. This has particular significance in the life and spirituality of the Pope. In fact, on the Feast of St Matthew in 1953, the young Jorge Bergoglio experienced, at the age of 17, in an exceptional way, the loving presence of God in his life. Following confession, he felt his heart touched, and he sensed the descent of the Mercy of God, who, with a gaze of tender love, called him to religious life, following the example of St Ignatius of Loyola.
Once he had been ordained a Bishop, in memory of this event that signified the beginning of his total consecration to God in His Church, he chose, as his motto and as his programme of life, the words of St Bede: “miserando atque eligendo”—this he has chosen to keep in his papal coat of arms.
Some mottos might be very fitting for our life journey and faith.
For example:
“Love takes no offence and does not brood over past wrongs.”
“nesciat sinistra tua quid faciat dextera tua.” (Let your left hand not know what your right hand is doing). Matthew 6:3 - (In regards to doing good works).
“Plenitudo ergo legis est dilectio.” (Therefore, the fullness of the law is love). Romans 13:10b
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like adults, and be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
“In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“So do not fear, for I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10
“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With humans, it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God”. Mark 10:27
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Philippians 2:3–4
“And know that I am with you always, yes, to the end of time.” (The end of Matthew’s Gospel).
What might your favourite motto be?
Fr Paul Kelly
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE FOR THE MONTH OF HOLY SOULS
To celebrate ‘Life Remembrance Month’ during November, the Book of Remembrance will be placed on a small table in the sanctuary, in front of the podium.
You are invited to enter the names of your deceased loved ones and friends who have gone before us. The book will be available at the back of the Church on the weekend, where names may be added throughout the month. The book will remain in that position until Advent.
NEW APRE FOR ST VINCENT’S SCHOOL 2024
On behalf of the Executive Director, the community of St Vincent’s Primary School, Clear Island Waters, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gina Kelly to the position of Assistant Principal – Religious Education from the commencement of the 2024 school year.
Gina is currently the Chief Operating Officer of the Johnathon Thurston Foundation. Gina possesses extensive APRE and Catholic School Leadership experience. Gina holds a Bachelor of Education, Certificate in Gifted Education, Certificate in TESOL and a Master of Religious Education.
I take this opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution of Margaret Hatzis and wish her well in her future endeavours.
We warmly welcome Gina back to St Vincent’s Primary School, Clear Island Waters and congratulate her on this appointment.
David Sewell. Principal
St Vincent’s Primary School
Clear Island Waters
ICON OF THE HOLY TRINITY OF THE FATHER, SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
You probably have seen this Icon (pictured above), which was “written” by Russian Artist Andrei Rublev, in the 15th Century. Rublev’s work is entitled “The Holy Trinity”. Icons are ancient prayers in the physical form of an image.
They are certainly not simply artworks; "an icon is a sacred image used in religious devotion." Icons are produced after prayer, contemplation and meditation and usually follow well-recognised symbolic elements. Icons reflect the faith and theology of the church. Rublev drew his inspiration from Genesis 18 (often called “The Hospitality of Abraham”). Rublev’s work is based on an earlier Icon. Still, his Icon removes the images of Abraham and Sarah and focuses on the theology of God as a communion of persons in perfect unity. The Three Persons of the Trinity (Father-Son-Holy Spirit) are presented as strangers/messengers/angels whom Abraham and Sarah invited to share a meal. As you look at the image, you will find several references to and indicators of the Trinity. What can you see? How does it speak to you here and now?
NEWS ABOUT CHANGES TO THE CATHOLIC LEADER MONTHLY NEWSPAPER
The Catholic Leader newspaper - our official archdiocesan newspaper has announced they will be stopping bulk deliveries and, from the beginning of next year, the Catholic Leader newspaper will no longer be available for purchase at church, (nor online), but will be sent by mail to individual subscribers. To support the ongoing benefit of this wonderful catholic Brisbane newspaper, which has been published since 1929 - and to ensure that everyone who wants a copy will have their own copy - it will now be conveniently posted to your address each month. Please take an envelope and subscribe by filling out the form and posting it back post-free to the catholic leader. Please take an envelope to any housebound members of the parish so they can subscribe and receive the paper by mail. You could also buy a gift subscription for someone special. Thanks.
Or subscribe by visiting www.catholicleader.com.au/subscribe
CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2023
To begin or to continue the journey of faith with your child, please use the information provided in the table below.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: (Alphabetical)
Leo Aguggia, Jack Barretto, Nellie Bellinger, Helen Bohringer, Julie & Paul Bowden, Coralie Brennan, Kevin Brennan, Tim Brown, Margaret Buckingham, Josip Burda, Michelle Burda, Elizabeth Capoluco, Diana Castro, Felipe S Cataquiz (Senior), Cecily Cellinan, Doug Chester, Jo Clark, Leslie Clarke, Tina Conidi, Margaret & George Cook, Alfonso Covino, Margaret Cusack, Geraldine Daniels, John Fisher, Rosie May Fisher, Sally Gage, Lorraine Gallagher, Laurel Goddard, Fred Grioli, Jacob Haddad, Jenny Haines, Peter Harford, Dion Herft, Lena Hiscock, Paul Hodges, 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, Bob Rogers, Mick Sherrard,Thor Skjaerbaek, Kathy Stevens, Brenda Stewart, 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):
Pascual Tantengco Jr., Peter Lawrence Britten, Miriam Jessy Fleming, Marie Antoinette Orlando,
Ruben Vico, Carmel Wilkinson, David Cannon, Jean Di Benedetto, Maria Mihalic, Dr Frank Miau.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Robert Aouad, Ronald George Blacker, Remo Bos, Zelimir Bresic, Fr Thomas Carroll, Ivan Victor Clark, Elizabeth Margaret Coffey, Michael Connaghan, Pauline Mary Dolan, Joan Mary Enright, Graham Irwin, Phillip Aldur Kaljo, Fr Vincent Landener, Margaret Maclennan, Fr Terry Madden, Gertrud Marschner, Moira Winnifred Mclellan, Vere Menefy, Fr Stephan Miklos, Paul Mott, Reggie Naidoo, Anthony Netting, Fr John O'Brien, Mario Pase, Fr Virgil Pender, Adleen Elgin Radecki, Anna Restaino, Dulcie May Ricks, Vera Rose, Edmond De Ruyter, Fr Henry Ryan, Anne Ryan, Shirley Ryan, John Reginald Slattery, Carl Tamer, Shirley Patricia Williams
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Myrene Rose Bartlett, Mavis Beryl Boland, Fr Alan Brown, June Butler, Lawrence Francis Byrne, Fr Patrick Clifford, Beryl Margaret Davidson, Shirley Marie Day, Shane Desira, Fr Martin Doyle, Fr David Edwards, Elisa Guzzo, Kevin James Hilliard, Mary Margaret Holden, Fr Raymond Kearney, Marianne Lila Kyle-Little, Dean Parker Leigh-Smith, Mons James Lynch, Joannes Maas, Dr Raymond Arthur Miles, Margaret Murphy, Judith Ann Oakes, Archbishop Patrick O'Donnell, Varkey Padayallil, Margaret Acushla Patton, Augustus Reeves, Patrick Roche, Mello Scharenguivel, Eamonn Damien Sherrard, Fr Anthony Treacy, Helen Wood.
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
“With Expectant Hearts” is a new 22-day reflection resource that can be used during Advent Its main purpose is to help us to find a few minutes each day to practice what it means to sit with God and to trust God to lead us forward.
A short text of scripture inspires each day’s reflection and concludes with a thought or two to take away and with a prayer.
The books priced at $6 are available at the Religious Goods Shops or the Parish Office.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday, 3rd of November, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me?" - Mt 26:40
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am Fourth of November.
Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ANOINTING MASS ON THE FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER WILL BE ON THE 7th AT 10 AM.
There will be no 9 AM mass on this day. Please join the Parish Hospitality Centre for light refreshments after the anointing mass.
OUR LADY’S STATUE - Tenth Anniversary!
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady’s Statue in the Parish -
Details of the Statue of Our Lady are going around the Parish.
If you want her in your home and say the Rosary,
Please contact Maxine or Pat on 0412 519 404.
Our Lady’s Statue details for the next four weeks are
6/11/2023 Maxine & Pat Sela Main Beach
13/11/2023 Rose & Joseph Pindo Ashmore
20/11/2023 Rose & Joseph Pindo Ashmore
27/11/2023 June Nye Carrara
4/12/2023 June Nye Carrara
Please phone Maxine Sela on 0421 051 193 if you want the Statue.
FOUND AT ST VINCENT’S CHURCH
Gold cygnet ring, ask at the Vestry.
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP- ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets on Thursdays from 5-6 p.m. at St Vincent’s Church, 40 Hamilton Ave Surfers Paradise. We will read/study Break Open the Word once a week on a Thursday evening from 5 to 6 p.m. Please place this important day, date and time in your diary.
Studying “Break Open the Word” helps you to remember the readings for the upcoming Sunday service and enjoy fellowship with other Catholics / Christians.
Our Parish at the weekend Masses proclaims the New Revised Standard Version. We will have questions about what we will be reading.
In the end, prayerfully together, we will all leave the study session being like-minded, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about learning and understanding scripture-based faith based around our Lord Jesus Christ and the love He intended for His church and each one of us. All interested persons are encouraged to attend. Enquires to Ashley 040984069.
MARIAN VALLEY PILGRIMAGE: Please join us at the Marian Valley for the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on 13.11.2023. The bus will pick up passengers 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.
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP
In the Morris prayer room, Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The Meditation Group would very much like to welcome new members. Please phone Pam Egtberts at 0428090703.
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.)
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 or you can bring in your ideas
A very relaxing and social environment - meet new friends! You 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.
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.
The Bold and the Beautiful Friendship Group
The Friendship Group is meeting for lunch at noon on Thursday, the 26th of October. Coffee at RQ Tavern on
Markeri Street. All are welcome. Please contact Amanda Rowe at 0421 487 009 if you need more information.
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.
“TAP `N” GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, 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) or vulnerable adults. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for abusing children or vulnerable adults.
A VOCATION VIEW:
"Credibility" becomes a household word, not because there is so much of it, but because there is such a lack. The Church also needs people who not only practice what they preach but can also preach what they practice. To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
”Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” - Matthew 23:12
The world celebrates people in the spotlight and those who have the most of everything. We think celebrity, money and possessions is the key to happiness. Yet, our world is filled with more loneliness, anxiety and depression than ever before. The key to a happy life is relationship. Relationship with God and each other. Trust is the foundation of any good relationship, and humility is the seed of trust.
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 - Vocation 101
What's your parish or Catholic organisation doing to promote the call to ordained and religious life in your community? Consider the threefold tasks of "prayer, invitation, and education": to pray for vocations, invite likely candidates to consider them, and educate others about the joy of service to Christ and his church. “With such affection for you, we were determined to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our very selves as well.” (Thessalonians 2:8)
ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1334273180- 16 February 2015 St. Petersburg Russia sculpture on St. Isaac's Cathedral. betrayal of Judas, Judas Jesus Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: mrivserg
[Gospel values included in the readings: brotherly and sisterly love amongst all people, humility, fairness, impartiality, service, support of others, self-sacrifice, and above all - consistency in our outward actions and words with our inner hearts and motives. To become more and more like Christ in compassion and service]
We are all brothers and sisters of one heavenly father... we are united as one, so we must be respectful, consistent, fair and even-handed with one other.
We are invited to give more than take and uplift others rather than actively burden them.
Interestingly, Jesus, in his teaching, makes a powerful distinction. He criticises the leadership of his day for not practising what they preach. He attacks their scandalous hypocrisy but refuses to deny their teaching authority. Instead, he is saddened that they are not living up to what they are teaching, which means a great deal.
it is profoundly distressing and tragic when one hears another say: "I gave up Christianity because people who called themselves Christian were not living up to its message." It shows how much people take our actions as speaking louder than our words. Christians who are not living according to their proclaimed discipleship are an enormous obstacle to the faith of others. But we must be careful not to “throw out the baby with the bathwater.” Our Lord never permitted anyone to do the wrong thing. He never taught people to misuse their position or to live hypocritically. He consistently called people to model themselves on his values and live precisely as we proclaim: in service, consistency, justice, humility and self-sacrifice. Our role model and guide is Christ himself. He lived and proclaimed the Kingdom perfectly and consistently. Christian leaders and every Christian is ultimately judged by the standards of how they followed their role model, Jesus, and how they were guided by Christ's values and priorities and not their own. Christ is the absolute model of service, self-forgetting love, compassion, justice and obedience to the Heavenly Father and the welfare of his beloved children.
Jesus teaches us to listen and learn from anyone with something worthwhile to say…. But to be discerning and wary about any contradictions between their proclaimed values and their actual behaviour and attitudes.
Today’s second reading is a refreshing contrast to the failures of the other religious leaders. Saint Paul is a different kind of leader. Although Our Lord criticises those who make a big show of outward appearances to the cost of others around them, St Paul is very down-to-earth. He is so passionate about his fellow Christians. He has come among them as a brother and has an enormous affection for all of them… (In this letter, He even goes so far as beautifully describing himself as..)....being like a protective nursemaid… // a loving and doting mother,// closely watching over her own dear children, with love and care; and great concern…
St Paul came into the community to assist them, serve them in Christ (using Christ as his role model), and not burden them. He worries about them like a parent and speaks up to encourage them and, at times, challenge them, but only for their good and the good of the gospel, not for his own needs. This is so different from those whom Our Lord spoke against. They want to make themselves better than others, create double standards and forget they are there for the support, encouragement and service of others and not for their self-serving purposes.
Christ's teaching is virtually always framed in favourable terms. It is often not about “don’t do this and don’t do that” - He leaves those words to his enemies. He devotes his actions and his teachings to the opposite. (That is,) to be someone loving, a servant, a brother, caring about those around him and giving himself entirely in service and love for all.
Our Lord was most often on the front foot, initiating events, whilst his enemies were on the back foot, reacting negatively to things that happened. Christ was proactive, whilst his opponents were reactive. Jesus did many good works of healing, inclusion, service and love, while his opponents would argue and complain (after the fact) about his actions. Our Lord spent little time discussing with them as he was too busy moving on to the subsequent good work, the next suitable project, and the next person to be healed, included or forgiven.
Jesus had little time for ‘don’t do this and don’t do that’ - he was too busy (rather) DOING what WAS worthwhile… and encouraging people to imitate him… When someone stopped him and told him ‘you shouldn’t have healed that woman on the Sabbath," or "You shouldn’t have forgiven that man," or "You shouldn’t have restored that person to the community…” he had already done so and was already off onto the next good work…leaving them behind to argue about words, while he was already at work on his next activity.
The excellent picture of Jesus is this. His enemies would approach him and say, “You had no right to do that action.” Jesus would effectively reply, “Too late, it is already done.” Then they would ask, “Why have you done this? What right have you got to do this?” Our Lord would reply: “I am doing my Father’s work, and it is always a good time to do good.” And then Jesus would add: “Anyway, I cannot stay and argue; I am off to do my next work of healing and love. I suppose you will want to criticise that, but off I go anyway. Talk about it amongst yourselves all you want, but I am busy with much to do.”
I honestly think that is the key to the message of Christ… Action backing up talk. Positive! Not negative. Doing something instead of endlessly arguing or complaining afterwards about what others should or should not be doing. And being proactive, not merely reactive.
References: Fr Paul W. Kelly; Break Open the Word 2011; My Daily Visitor Sep-October 2011
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1334273180- 16 February 2015 St. Petersburg Russia sculpture on St. Isaac's Cathedral. betrayal of Judas, Judas Jesus Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Important information. Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: mrivserg
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 Dedication of the Lateran Basilica - 9-Nov - Feast
◆ The Lateran Basilica, the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, was dedicated to Christ the Saviour in the fourth century. The anniversary has been celebrated as a feast of the Latin Church on this date since the twelfth century. It honours the local Church of Rome as a link with the earliest Christian tradition and as a sign of our communion in Christ.
◆ “What was done here, as these walls were rising, is reproduced when we bring together those who believe in Christ. For, by believing they are hewn out, as it were, from mountains and forests, like stones and timber, but by catechising, baptism and instruction, they are, as it were, shaped, squared and planed by the hands of the workers and artisans. Nevertheless, they do not make a house for the Lord until they are fitted together through love”. St Augustine (354-430) Doctor of the Church – Sermon 36
◆ “Today’s feast, brothers, ought to be all the more devout as it is more personal. For other celebrations, we have in common with other ecclesiastical communities, but this one is proper to us, so if we do not celebrate it, nobody will. It is ours because it concerns our church, ours because we are its theme. You are surprised and even embarrassed, perhaps, at celebrating a feast for yourselves. But do not be like horses and mules that have no understanding. Your souls are holy because of the Spirit of God dwelling in you, your bodies are holy because of your souls, and this building is holy because of your bodies.” St Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) Doctor of the Church.
◆ “Is not this an image of today’s event? The ancient generations came up to this place, generations of Romans, generations of bishops of Rome, successors of St Peter, and they sang this hymn of joy, which I repeat today with you. I join these generations: I, the new Bishop of Rome, John Paul II, Polish by origin. I stop on the threshold of this temple, and I ask you to welcome me in the Lord’s name. I beg you to welcome me, as you welcomed my Predecessors throughout the centuries, as you welcomed John Paul I only a few weeks ago, so beloved by the whole world! I beg you to welcome me too. The Lord says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you” (Jn 15:16). This is the only appeal I can make – I am not here by my own will. The Lord has elected me. In the Lord’s name, I beg you, therefore – welcome me!” St Pope John Paul (1920-2005) RITE OF POSSESSION OF THE CHAIR OF THE BISHOP OF ROME. HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II. Basilica of St John Lateran. Sunday, 12 November 1978
➔ St Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church — 10-Nov - Memorial
◆ Died in Rome on this day in 461. Elected pope in 440. Tried to protect the city from the devastation of barbarian invasion. His surviving letters illustrate the leadership and guidance he exercised as bishop of Rome toward other Churches in the West. He is remembered for the clarity of his thought on the two natures of Christ, affirmed at the Council of Chalcedon, for his eloquent sermons, and for the prayers he composed for the Roman liturgy.
◆ No one, however weak, is denied a share in the victory of the cross. No one is beyond the help of the prayer of Christ.
◆ Virtue is nothing without the trial of temptation, for there is no conflict without an enemy, no victory without strife.
◆ Those who are not good to others are bad to themselves.
◆ Peace is the first thing the angels sang. Peace is the mark of the children of God. Peace is the nurse of love. Peace is the mother of unity. Peace is the rest of the blessed souls. Peace is the dwelling place of eternity.
◆ Let no one be ashamed of the cross by which Christ has redeemed the world. None of us must be afraid to suffer for justice or doubt the fulfilment of the promises, for it is through toil that we come to rest and through death that we pass to new life.
◆ The cross of Christ is the true ground and chief cause of Christian hope.
◆ The faith of those who live their faith is a serene faith. What you long for will be given to you; what you love will be yours forever.
◆ The faith by which we live shall never vary in any age . . . for one is the faith which sanctifies the Just of all ages.
◆ The devil is always discovering something novel against the truth.
◆ He that sees another in error and endeavours not to correct it, testifies himself to be in error.
◆ Beyond our grasp, He chose to come within our grasp. Existing before time began, He began to exist at a moment in time.
◆ Teach nothing new, but instil into all men's breasts those things which the Fathers of revered memory have with the harmony of statement taught... Preach nothing else than what we received from our forefathers... Accordingly, in the rule of faith and observance of discipline, let the standard of antiquity be maintained throughout.
◆ A true worshipper is one whose mind has not been defiled with false beliefs.
◆ A great safeguard is the entire faith, the true faith, in which neither anything whatever anyone can add nor anything is taken away; for unless faith is one, it is not the faith.
◆ Truth, which is simple and one, admits of no variety.
◆ As the world attracts us with its appearance, abundance and variety, it is not easy to turn away from it unless in the beauty of things visible the Creator rather than the creature is loved; for, when He says, 'you shall love the Lord your God from all your heart, and from all your mind, and all your strength' (Mt. 22:37), He wishes us in nothing to loosen ourselves from the bonds of His love. And when He links the love of our neighbour also to this command, He enjoins on us the imitation of His goodness, that we should love what He loves and do what He does.
◆ I have neither permitted nor shall I permit, the things which have been settled by the holy fathers to be violated by any innovation.
◆ It is not enough to know the Son of God in the Father's nature only unless we acknowledge Him in what is ours without withdrawing what is His own. For that self-emptying, which He underwent for man's restoration, was the dispensation of compassion, not the loss of power. For, though by the eternal purpose of God there was 'no other name under heaven given to men whereby they must be saved' (Acts 4:12), the Invisible made His substance visible, the Intemporal temporal, the Impassable passable: not that power might sink into weakness, but that weakness might pass into indestructible power.
◆ God ordained for every man one and the same means of salvation.
◆ The Child, the Lord Jesus Christ . . . Word in our flesh, Wisdom in infancy, Power in weakness, and true Man, the Lord of Majesty.
◆ The birthday of the Lord is the birthday of peace.
◆ By Baptism, we are made flesh of the Crucified.
◆ The Church is a virgin, the bride of one Spouse, Who is Christ, and this Church does not allow herself to be violated by any error so that, throughout the whole world, there may be for us one uncorruptedness of a single chaste communion.
◆ And each one is a partaker of this spiritual origin in regeneration; and to everyone when he is re-born, the water of baptism is like the Virgin's womb; for the same Holy Spirit fills the font, Who filled the Virgin, that the sin, which that sacred conception overthrew, may be taken away by this mystical washing.
◆ The faith of those who live their faith is a serene faith. What you long for will be given to you; what you love will be yours forever. Since it is by giving alms that everything is pure for you, you will also receive that blessing which is promised next by the Lord: the Godhead that no man can see. In the inexpressible joy of this eternal vision, human nature will possess what the eye has not seen, or ear heard, what man's heart has never conceived.
➔ St Martin of Tours, Bishop - 11-Nov - Memorial
◆ Born in Pannonia (Hungary) about 316. Died in 397 and was buried on this day in Tours (France). A catechumen who was in conscience unable to continue with military service. Baptised at the age of eighteen, for a time became a hermit, and then worked to establish monasticism in the West. Bishop of Tours for twenty-five years. One of the first non-martyrs to be venerated as a saint. Widely remembered for his legendary generosity to the poor, for arguing against the persecution of heretics, and especially for his active evangelisation and pastoral care of rural areas.
◆ "Now let me fight for God. As for your bonus, let someone who is going to join the battle receive it. I am a soldier of Christ-combat is not permitted me."
◆ In the name of the Lord Jesus and protected only by the sign of the cross, without shield or helmet, I shall penetrate the enemy's ranks and not be afraid."
◆ "With the sign of the Cross, I shall more certainly break through the ranks of the enemy than if armed with shield and sword."
◆ "Lord, if your people need me, I will not refuse the work. Your will be done."
◆ "Allow me, brothers, to look toward heaven rather than at the earth, so that my spirit may set on the right course when the time comes for me to go on my journey to the Lord."
POPE FRANCIS: Pope warns against idolatry camouflaged as sacred
Pope Francis, pictured at the Synod on Synodality last week, and the cover of his new book (CNS/Vatican Media, LEV)
Christian life is a battle each person must fight against the temptation to be self-sufficient and against paganism disguised as sacredness, Pope Francis wrote in an introduction to a small book distributed to participants at the Synod on Synodality. Source: CNS.
Such “spiritual worldliness,” he wrote, “though it is camouflaged with the appearance of the sacred, it ends up being idolatrous because it does not recognise the presence of God as Lord and liberator of our lives and of the history of the world. It leaves us prey to our capricious desires.”
The booklet contains two republished essays by the Pope that are “united by the concern, which I feel to be a loud call from God to the entire Church, to remain vigilant and to fight with the strength of prayer against every concession to spiritual worldliness”, he wrote.
Titled, Holy, Not Worldly: God’s Grace Saves Us From Interior Corruption, the booklet was released by the Dicastery for Communication and the Vatican publishing house on Friday and was offered to the more than 350 participants attending the afternoon session of the Synod of Bishops on Synodality.
“I offer these texts to the reader as an opportunity to reflect on his life and on the life of the Church, with the conviction that God asks us to be open to his newness, he asks us to be unquiet and never satisfied, searching and never stuck in comfortable opacity, not defended within the walls of false certainties, but walking on the road of holiness,” the Pope wrote.
“Christian life is a battle” against the temptation of closing in on oneself, he wrote, and instead to let God’s love dwell within.
This battle is not in vain or without hope, he wrote, “because this battle has already been won by Jesus,” who, with his resurrection, “has made it possible for us to become new persons.”
Source and Image: In book given at synod, Pope warns against idolatry camouflaged as sacred(By Carol Glatz, CNSvia OSV News) https://cathnews.com/2023/10/09/pope-warns-against-idolatry-camouflaged-as-sacred/
EXPLORING OUR FAITH - Faith today
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)
Faith is both a gift of God and a human act by which the believer gives personal adherence to God. It is to believe in something or someone, to fully trust and be so confident that you base your actions on what you believe.
Faith in God then, is having the kind of trust and confidence in God that leads you to commit your whole life and soul to God. Our post-modern world challenges this faith in things unseen, instead positing that reality is only what can be experienced through the senses and verified by scientific processes. Denials of the existence of God and life after death are hallmarks of this contemporary rationalist philosophy.
Instinctively, human beings know that there is more to life than briefly dancing across the stage of life. Christian faith asserts that there is a loving Creator who desires that our lives reach their ultimate fulfilment in eternity.
Faith in God develops within one’s spirit and establishes a certain inner knowing that something is so before you see any material evidence. This spiritual knowing is of the heart and soul not merely the intellect. It is a call to do and say what you believe you are called to without doubt. Faith can bring ultimate blessings as well as challenges and difficulties.
Source: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/teachings-of-the-catholic-church
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
No comments:
Post a Comment