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“I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” (Mark 1:23)
Shutterstock Licensed Image - stock photo ID: 541079824 VIENNA, AUSTRIA - DECEMBER 19, 2016: The icon of Jesus among the apostles on the canvas in church Brigitta Kirche by an unknown artist of 20. cent.Image taken by Renata Sedmakova
Next week is Word of God Sunday…. Bring your family bible to mass next weekend, and we will celebrate the centrality of God’s word in our homes, lives, and hearts.
Pastor’s Post: Say What we Mean or Mean what we Say
The role of the prophet is not primarily to predict the future, but to speak of what God is doing here and now in this community. The role of the prophet is not a self-appointed one but a God-appointed one. Much harm has been done throughout the
generations when false prophets claim to speak of the right path but only speak their own words or words that humour the false ways of the times.
The first reading reminds us that we must discern God’s will and distinguish it from our own whims. We must be open and responsive to God’s ways and values that challenge us and convict and forgive us at different times of our journey.
Jesus taught "as one with authority." His words and actions amazed those around him; in fact, in today's gospel story, his words do the healing. Unlike the scribes, who interpreted Hebrew scripture and told stories of the words and deeds of biblical figures, Jesus embodied divine words and deeds in the present and in his person.
Imitating Jesus, we do well to say what we believe and believe what we say;
And to do what we believe and believe in what we do. Jesus’ message frequently warned his followers to beware that they are not replacing empty words in place of the Lord's powerful, authority-filled words about the gospel of love, forgiveness, justice and reverence towards God and our neighbour.
Paul’s words seem so jarring today: “I should like you to be free of anxieties," Saint Paul wrote in the Corinthians. The scenario he described--whether to remain single given the expectation of Christ's imminent return--may not be one that today's Christians would take as seriously. However, people still need to find ways to be focused on the things of the Lord amidst being anxious about the things of the world.
Saint Paul believed that the Kingdom was so imminently about to arrive in its fullness that he had a sense of urgency. He told people they should live in the moment and not worry about ordinary concerns such as marriage and family life events. Marriage and the family are profound, beautiful vocations and extremely worthy. Today, this text challenges us to value our vocation (whether it be to marriage or celibacy – both are good), balance our earthly commitments with our heavenly calling – and bring the two into harmony. Marriage and Celibacy are two sides of the same coin.
Let us pray that God will bless and make fruitful the two different (but complimentary) vocations of married life and celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom.
Fr Paul.
To tune in to The Weekend Mass (the sound podcast), please regularly visit the link below to listen to the Mass (including the homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. Please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - (It is updated at intervals just before the next Sunday or Feastday - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
FASTING, BUT NOT FAINTING!
With the extreme weather, we have been having lately and many older parishioners attending the early masses, we plead for parishioners to have something to eat and to hydrate sufficiently before mass. We understand people’s desire to fast before receiving communion, but people are likelier to faint in the masses if they have not eaten before coming to church. Drinking sufficient water is also essential. The fasting rule before mass does not apply to people whose medical needs or age would best be served by not missing breakfast. (In any case, the fasting rule is an hour before communion - not an hour before the start of mass! This means that a solid breakfast can be taken up to 25 minutes before mass starts)- Again, please re-consider fasting if health or age is an issue. This can be an issue even for younger people, so please err on the side of health and safety.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD - (CLOW) AT SACRED HEART CHURCH
Helpers are needed also to assist with our Children’s Liturgy of the Word
(also known as CLOW) on a Sunday morning during the 9 am Mass at Sacred Heart.
The children leave the congregation at the start of Mass and go to the Atrium to celebrate and reflect on the Sunday Gospel reading in an age-appropriate way. The children are led through prayers, songs, and readings adapted to their understanding level.
Attending Mass together is a part of being a Catholic Family, while Children’s Liturgy of the Word allows children to enter the celebration more fully by catering to their needs.
Interested volunteers are invited to contact the Parish Office.
One of the requirements will be to have or apply for a Blue Card. Staff will be able to help you apply if necessary.
KIDS’ BULLETIN
Have you heard of the Kids’ Bulletin? The Kids’ Bulletin is a fun way for Catholic children to learn about the Faith every week. For a free online printable news bulletin with Sunday readings, go to https://thekidsbulletin.com/
HELP NEEDED AT SACRED HEART CHURCH 6 PM SUNDAY NIGHT
We urgently need helpers in specific ministries at the 6 pm Sacred Heart Church.
Welcomers - friendly faces who greet people at the entrance of the church
Remote Control operator - also known as the person who operates the “clicker” that moves the slides for the mass for people to follow hymns and prayers.
Altar Servers
Collectors
Please join the roster for these specific ministries that have a shortage.
Please see Megan or Robyn after Mass at Sunday 6 pm or email Megan at meganjhamilton@bigpond.com - You will be offered training and support. Many thanks for your assistance.
It is not only the 6pm Sunday Night Mass that urgently needs helpers, but all the other Masses in the Parish. The Sacred Heart Vigil 5pm and Sunday 9am, Stella Maris Vigil 5pm and Sunday 7am and St Vincent’s Sunday 8am and 10am would welcome any interested persons to join the many ministries available. Other areas where people are required are coordinators, readers and extra ordinary ministers of communion, organists, singers and choir members, car park attendants and piety shop sales persons.
Please see your friendly Mass coordinators who will direct you to the right contact person.
EXPLORING OUR FAITH -
A reminder of a liturgical change that occurred late in 2020.
In 2020, at the beginning of Advent, you may have noticed a small but significant change to the opening prayer at Mass. This opening prayer is called "The Collect" because it collects together all the intentions and prayers of the people.
This change was first announced on 13 May 2020, when Cardinal Robert Sarah, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, wrote to Episcopal Conferences in relation to a change to the Trinitarian conclusion to the collects (opening prayers) in the Roman Missal (2010).
Until recently, a typical conclusion to the collect read as follows:
"Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever."
Cardinal Sarah's letter indicated that the inclusion of the word "one" before God is problematic in relation to the Latin text: "Deus, per omnia saecula saeculorum". (That is, the Latin text - which is the standard by which all other texts are translated - literally says: "God, forever and ever."
In relation to the inclusion of the word "one" before God, Cardinal Sarah wrote:
This "… can serve to undermine the statement of the Son's unique identity within the Trinity which the Latin formulas so strongly convey and, on the other hand, it can also be interpreted as saying that Jesus Christ is 'one God.' Either or both of these interpretations is injurious to the faith of the Church."
It is clear from the Latin texts that the doxology emphasises the divinity of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Son, who intercedes on our behalf, as the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, to the Father and which prayer is made in the unity of the Holy Spirit. Thus the Son's role of priestly mediation is made clear. To transfer the Trinitarian relational element in unitate as meaning unus Deus is incorrect.
The omission of the word "one" before God will mean that the three possible conclusions to the collects [as outlined in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (2012), n. 54] will read as follows:
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Or: Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Or: Who live and reign with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Following advice from the Bishop's Commission for Liturgy, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference approved the change to the Trinitarian conclusions to the collect prayers in the Roman Missal. The change took effect from the First Sunday of Advent, 29 November 2020.
{From the Bishops Commission for Liturgy (Dated: 28 September 2020)}
Fr Paul Kelly
PILGRIMAGE WITH FR DAN RYAN -FRANCE, PARIS AND LOURDES 2024
(With Fr Dan Ryan, as he celebrates 50 years of priesthood).
Would you like to travel to France from mid-May to mid-June next year with me, Fr Dan Ryan, on a French Saints Pilgrimage, with a possible extension to Rome?
I have organised a pilgrimage with Harvest Journeys to travel through France and visit the Places of Saints.
The trip will include Paris (2nights), Rouen, Lisieux(2), Mont-Saint-Michel (2), Chartes, Nevers (1), Taize, Paray le Monial (2), Ars, La Salette (1), Avignon, Lourdes (3), Montserrat(1), and Barcelona (1), Optional Rome Extension (3)
If you would like more information, you can contact Harvest Journeys on 1800 819 156 or https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/pv2445. If you contact Harvest Journeys, mention my name and the pilgrimage is the French Saints Pilgrimage. There are a few brochures at the back of the church. Father Dan Ryan. A copy of the brochure is available here as well: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EuOjctr5PMLmUrxxhut9-IoMAI3OMQXQ/view?usp=sharing
CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2024
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
“TAP `N” GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, tap again (when it has re-set) for another $10, and so on.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: (Alphabetical)
Jack Barretto, Nellie Bellinger, Kevin Brennan, Tim Brown, Margaret Buckingham, Diana Castro, Cecily Cellinan, Doug Chester, Jo Clark, Leslie Clarke, Tina Conidi, Margaret & George Cook, Alfonso Covino, Margaret Cusack, Geraldine Daniels, Nia Falekakala, John Fisher, Rosie May Fisher, Sally Gage, Lorraine Gallagher, Laurel Goddard, Fred Grioli, Jacob Haddad, Jenny Haines, Dion Herft, Mary Hirst, Lena Hiscock, Louise Holmes, Kim Ingram, Anna Janiek, Pat Jones, Leona Kelly, Marianne Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Betu Kim, Jan Kristenson, Krystal, Bob Lahey, Diane & Steve Land, Sue Langham, Patrick Joven de Leon, Nathan Lepp, Joseph Ah Lo, Ann Marie Loder, Sarina Losurdo, John Nathaniel Maher, Maria Manuela, Andrew McPherson, Phil McWilliam, Fabiola Menzs, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Hugh Morand, Amy Elizabeth Morgan, Michael & Lesley Murtagh, Joanna Muthu, Lynn Nunan, Stephen O’Brien, Peter O’Brien, John & Pat O’Hanlon, Natalie O’Reilly, Letty O’Sullivan, Joanne Parkes, Kay Pitman, Rachel Raines, Gus Reeves, Patricia Roberts, Rogelio Rodriguez, Bob Rogers, Felipe S Cataquiz (Senior), Thor Skjaerbaek, Kathy Stevens, Brenda Stewart, Jim Stewart, Rose Stewart, Betty Taylor, Teresa Teo (Hhih Ting), John Thomas, Baby Samuel Timothy, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Rick Murphy (USA), Karen Vestergard, Billy Webb, Lois Wood.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Franco Innocenti, Ivan Sabol, Renato Santelesis, Mirko Papak, Sybil Vos, Allan Endicott, John Grimley, Marcella Wockner, Beryl Dorfield, Allan Robert Cupitt, Sharon Cass Edwards, Peter Lowe, June Carnovale, James Goodwin, Michael Plant, Helen Bohringer, Josip Burda, Pascual Tantengco Jr., Carmel Wilkinson, Dr Frank Miau.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Leslie (Les) Gloster Alford, Marie Ethel Ashby, Dolores Mary Barakat, Maria Beer, Marco Burcul, Peter Capolupo, Graciella Del Carmen Chapman, Antoun Christophi, Berice May Flannery, Patricia Mary Flori, Raymond John Ford, David William Foster, Glenis Maria Gaffney (nee Geitz), Ronda Jean Terese Hall, Cheryl Anne Hamwood, Susan Marie Hogan, Teresa Jackson, Zvonimir Leopold Karlich, John David (Jack) Kelly, Anna Marinic, Raelene Mavis Maroney, Brian Moon, Veronica Mary Moore, Stanley Nalepa, Ignatius Joseph Johannes Nati, Michael O'Brien, Hilda O'Donnell, Jack O'Donnell, Fr Robert O'Shea, Mons Michael Potter, John Reid, Jacqueline Feriel Rivet, Mercedes Rosario, Terese Salama, Jim Zadco.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Peter Bernardi, Anne Elizabeth Carney, Ivan Michael Clark, Armando Covino, Clifford Archie (Cliff) Cowell, Klaus Diga, Kenneth Charles Emmerton, Donna Marie Faulkner, Jeffrey Eric Fittler, Mons Bartholomew Frawley, Nicola Di Giannantonio, Stan Hancock, Fr John Hegarty, Trevor Raymond Karst, Gloria Klaasen, Dr David Lee, Mons Robert Lyons, Kenneth John (Ken) Maccheroni, Fr Brian McMullen, John Warren Monahan, Johann Ofner, John Pascoe, Kath Power, Len Scully, Albert Antonio Vosti, Susan-Gai Walsh, Paul Anthony Zappa, Dan Ziebarth
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 go 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 Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES.
A Resurrected Life is a new 6-week reflection resource that can be used during Lent by individuals during the 2024 liturgical year. Each reflection is written to help us sit with God and to trust Him to lead us forward.
Each day’s reflection is inspired by a text of Scripture from the day’s Gospel reading, followed by Contemplating the Word, a thought or two on how to Put the Word into Practice and concludes with a Prayer. Available now until sold out $6.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday, 2nd February, 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 26:4
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am (tomorrow) Saturday - 3rd February. Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
THE HEALING MASS
Will return on the first Tuesday of February 2024 at 10 am (6/2/2024).
Please let everyone know.
MARIAN VALLEY FEAST OF OUR LADY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley for the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on 11.02.2024 and on 13.02.2024 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573, All are welcome.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP -
The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays from 9 to 12. Activities include
art (watercolour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink drawing, etc.)
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.
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.
OUR LADY’S STATUE -
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
29/01/2024 Nardine & Ayling Merrimac
05/02/2024 Rose & Joseph Pindo Ashmore
12/02/2024 Rose & Joseph Pindo Ashmore
Please phone Maxine Sela on 0421 051 193 if you want the Statue.
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.
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group Thursday from 5-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church, 40 Hamilton Ave Surfers Paradise. Come along and read/study Break Open the Word once a week on a Thursday evening from 5 to 6 pm—For further enquiries, Ashley at 040984069.
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP - Resuming on 6th February 2024
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 0493742670.
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.
Pregnancy Crisis Incorporated (PCI) trading as Pregnancy Support Requests, Queensland
PCI is a Catholic not-for-profit comprised of men and women who volunteer to serve women and girls with crisis pregnancies and their unborn babies and any other children they may have. This is done through the immediate and ongoing provision of relief to those in distress, whether it is due to financial hardship, homelessness, domestic violence, pressure to abort their babies by family or their workplace, or for any other reason. Relief includes accommodation, food, and clothing during pregnancy and until around six months after birth, friendship and the easing of isolation and loneliness through visitation, material baby goods from nappies to prams to cots and everything in between, spiritual and emotional support, and referrals for, and accompaniment to, social welfare appointments, medical care, and counselling. Further, we assist both men and women with post-abortion trauma crises. Unfortunately, PCI’s public liability insurance premiums have increased significantly this year, approximately an additional $21,000 p.a., due to claims made by other organisations around the world. PCI receives no government funding and relies totally on donations. To ease this financial burden, PCI is hosting a dance, to raise funds for PCI.
Details are as follows:
Friday, 9th February 6:30 - 11:00 PM - Mary Immaculate Roman Catholic Church Hall, 616 Ipswich Road, Annerley, Queensland, 4103 $35pp includes a glass of wine upon arrival, $20pp for ages 10-17, and ages 0-9 are complimentary.
All ages; youth and young adults, families, and seniors are most welcome. Please see this booking link for further information, such as dress theme: https://www.trybooking.com/COEVT
“Ad-rae búaid ocus bennachtain”
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:
Jesus speaks as one having authority. As we follow God’s call, we remember the same authority passed down to the Church that she might guide us closer to Christ and help us discern our vocation. (Mark 1:21-28)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“Brothers and sisters: I should like you to be free of anxieties.”- 1 Corinthians 7:32
How much anxiety do we bring upon ourselves by constantly worrying about not having enough or attaining more things? God won’t necessarily give you everything you want, but He will provide everything you need. Try this – use the word “pray” instead of the word “worry” in the future. Then, spend your time praying instead of worrying.
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 -
WORD OF THE WEEK
“Benedictus” (\be-nÉ™-'dik-toos\)
From the Latin meaning "blessed," the hymn is sung by Zechariah, John the Baptist's father, an elder priest, who became mute upon learning that he and Elizabeth would become parents late in life. After John’s birth, Zechariah's tongue is loosed and he praises God with this canticle beginning: “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free” (Luke 1:68).
Pronunciation: http://tinyurl.com/Take5-benedictus
CONTEXT
Since the early centuries, the Benedictus has been sung in the morning prayer of the church's liturgy because of its praise for the coming of the Redeemer and its allusion to Christ coming as the dawn to give light to those in darkness. —Stephen J. Binz
May I have the courage today/ To live the life that I would love,/ To postpone my dream no longer,/ But do at last what I came here for/ And waste my heart on fear no more?
―John O'Donohue, Benedictus: A Book of Blessings
WHY IT MATTERS
The Benedictus is one of four canticles sung at the start of Luke's gospel, including Mary's Magnificat (My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord), the song of the angels to the shepherds (Glory to God in the highest!), and Simeon's prayer at the presentation of Jesus in the temple (“Nunc dimittis”: “Lord, now you let your servant go in peace”). Together, these songs remind us that, in the face of good news, the most reasonable response is to sing. Joyful people know this. It is the most natural response to the graciousness of God who truly has "come to the people and set them free"!
From The General Instruction on the Liturgy of the Hours: The Gospel canticles, the Benedictus, the Magnificat and the “Nunc dimittis” should be accorded the same solemnity and dignity as is usual for the hearing of the Gospel (138).
RELATED WORDS
Magnificat | Nunc dimittis | Beatitudes
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Why do we sing at Mass?
Saint Augustine said many things well and insisted: "Singing is for one who loves.” This is the same Bishop Augustine who considered banning music from his church altogether. Ultimately, he adhered to an older proverb: “Whoever sings well prays twice over.” So, pass out the song sheets.
Saint Paul was an earlier proponent of church music, back when church still gathered in somebody’s house. He advocated that believers sing “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God” (Col. 3:16). While Augustine got it right that singing is for lovers, happy people in general whistle while they work, and grateful people know they have something to sing about. This may explain why some folks in church are reluctant to sing. Without a significant increase in the spirit of joy and gratitude, don’t expect an increase in responsive singers. Yet to those who love, feel joy, and are grateful, this joyous response is in order.
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask: https://tinyurl.com/QCA-sing-Mass
FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD (FEBRUARY 2)
Listen to your elders
Mary and Joseph were faithful Jews and desired their son to be raised in the faith that had sustained them. They took Jesus to the Temple to be consecrated and presented to God, where they met Simeon and Anna, community elders. The elders immediately recognised Jesus as the Messiah, the fulfilment of God’s promise to Israel.
"My eyes have seen your salvation." (Luke 2:22-40).
FAITH IN ACTION
Follow the wisdom of our biblical elders and call forth the gifts of a child to give light to the world.
ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
{Image - Shutterstock licensed Image: ID:719621203 Teachings of Jesus. Frescoes of the ancient Byzantine church of Hagia Sophia in Trabzon. The remains of the ancient temple. Old church wall. July 4, 2017. By Nurlan Mammadzada}
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Jesus Teaches with Authority
Jesus (in this weekend's gospel) is described as "speaking with authority" – something that surprises and deeply impresses those who hear him. Our Lord is seen as having an authority that is very different from what they are used to experiencing from their regular religious leaders, who, you would think, should also be inspiring figures, and speaking with authority, one would hope; - but they were clearly not.
It goes to show that there are two different types of authority;
One derives from the office that a person holds (the authority and respect due to the position a person holds). Then there is the personal authority that speaks powerfully of the inner integrity, vision and values of THAT person.
When both are found together, then history has before them a great and impressive leader….
Jesus never had a formal office in his society (other than being rightly described as a Rabbi or a teacher); however, his authority was absolute, flowing from deep within him, from the truth of who he is (and his essential relationship to his heavenly Father).
Ironically, the true test of a person's faithfulness to God is how they respond to the embodiment of God (in Jesus). These so-called faithful followers of God failed miserably in this test, because they rejected Jesus and opposed his vision.
We must stay very close to the person and message of Jesus, learn from him, and experience his compassion and love for all people (because this motivates his mission – LOVE – at the very centre and nature of God). Without that, we, too, could fall into the trap of living the outward appearance and missing the point inside.
It is ironic that Jesus was unable to cast out the evil of malice and deception that was in the hearts of his opponents, who lied and deceived to accuse him of sedition and to have him crucified wrongly. But, they were too wilful. They were deliberately and stubbornly cooperating with evil in their hearts and choosing to oppose Jesus, so Jesus had to die and rise again in order to break their power.
We are called by Christ to cast out (with his help) all that is destructive, hate-filled, deceptive, unjust and unloving in our lives and hearts. We do it by prayer by reflection, and by staying very close to the Lord. We must not allow ourselves to be distracted in our service of God's Kingdom and the values of the gospel. So, what really counts is listening to what God wants of us here and now. Married or single, with God's help, let us strive to live that vocation well.
Fr. Paul Kelly.
To listen to the whole 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
REFERENCES:
Fr Paul W. Kelly;
Homily of the Abbot – Monastery of Christ in the Desert;
MISSION 2000 – PRAYING SCRIPTURE IN A CONTEMPORARY WAY. YEAR B. BY MARK LINK S.J.
{Image - Shutterstock licensed Image: ID:719621203 Teachings of Jesus. Frescoes of the ancient Byzantine church of Hagia Sophia in Trabzon. The remains of the ancient temple. Old church wall. July 4, 2017. By Nurlan Mammadzada}
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
January 31 - M - Saint John Bosco, priest and religious founder. A love that works
At the height of the Industrial Revolution, impoverished Italian boys were drawn to the city of Turin in search of factory work. But, for many reasons, they fell on hard times and were often jailed. Saint John Bosco helped them with lodging, education, vocational training, and just plain patience and loving care. He also protected young workers from unscrupulous employers by crafting signed apprenticeship agreements—the first real employment contracts used in Europe. He revolutionised the work of educators, too, writing: “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education. If you want to be loved … you must love yourselves and make your children feel that you love them.”
“Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.
Feb 1 - Saint Brigid. St Brigid of Ireland (c 453-523)
I would like the angels of Heaven to be among us. I would like an abundance of peace. I would like full vessels of charity. I would like rich treasures of mercy. I would like cheerfulness to preside over all. I would like Jesus to be present. I would like the three Marys of illustrious renown to be with us. I would like the friends of Heaven, to be gathered around us, from all parts. I would like myself to be a rent-payer to the Lord, that I should suffer distress, that He would bestow a good blessing upon me. I would like a great lake of beer for the King of Kings. I would like to be watching Heaven’s family drinking it through all eternity. “
Saint Brigid, You were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict. You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. St. Brigid you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit.
Possessions might seem like blessings but can end up being burdens, and many saints went to great lengths to empty their pockets in order to lighten their hearts. Case in point: Sixth-century Brigid of Kildare, who enraged her Druid dad by giving to the needy everything that wasn’t nailed down. When a nobleman tried to stop her chariot, she charged his blockage, surviving but totaling her chariot. Finally her father decided to sell her at market, but she entered a monastery instead. Give in to the spirit of generosity—and you just might find that the new lighter you can’t get enough of less.
FEB 2 - The Presentation of the Lord
Make a perfect offering of your life
Today’s feast marks an ancient Jewish tradition in which the firstborn child was “consecrated to the Lord” by way of two sacrificial turtledoves or young pigeons offered at the Temple 40 days after birth. The mother, considered ritually unclean after giving birth, was also purified on this same day. But the visit of Mary and Joseph to present the infant Jesus is unique, marked by an outpouring of prophecy. Simon and Anna testify that light has come into the world and that salvation is at hand. We honour the link to ancient tradition as we celebrate the Presentation today, but we also appreciate how Jesus not only fulfils but surpasses all the traditions of his time and place. Here at last is the perfect offering.
“The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him.”
FEB3 - - Saint Ansgar, bishop (801-865)
“If I were worthy of such a favour from my God, I would ask that He grant me this one miracle –that by His grace, He would make of me a good man.” Saint Ansgar to a parishioner who was praising him for being a miracle worker.
FEB3 - m - Saint Blase, bishop and martyr
Be a healing light
The historical details of Saint Blaise’s fourth-century life in what is now modern-day Turkey are lost in the shroud of the centuries, but the tradition of his healing powers endures. The healing of throat diseases is what is most ascribed to him. When Blaise was imprisoned during a persecution of Christians, he apparently healed a choking boy with the aid of candles that lit his dark cell. On another level, the enduring tradition speaks to the ongoing need for healing that we all share. Whether it be a physical ailment or a wounded soul that needs tending, say a prayer today to Saint Blaise, the keeper of the flame.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation. Your presence, O LORD, I seek.”
POPE FRANCIS: Continuing the summary on Session One of the Synod on Synodality.
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Proposals PART II – ALL DISCIPLES, ALL MISSIONARIES
8. Church is Mission
Convergences
Rather than saying that the Church has a mission, we affirm that Church ‘is’ mission. “As the Father has sent me, so I send you” (John 20:21): the Church receives from Christ, the One who is sent by the Father, Her own mission. Supported and guided by the Holy Spirit, the Church announces and witnesses the Gospel to those who do not know it or welcome it. They do this with that preferential option for the poor that is rooted in the mission of Jesus. In this way, the Church co-operates in the coming of the Reign of God, of which She is the seed (cf. LG 5).
The sacraments of Christian initiation confer on all the disciples of Jesus the responsibility for the mission of the Church. Laymen and laywomen, those in consecrated life, and ordained ministers have equal dignity. They have received different charisms and vocations and exercise different roles and functions, but all are called and nourished by the Holy Spirit to form one body in Christ (1 Cor. 4-31). They are all disciples, all missionaries, in the reciprocal vitality of local communities who experience the delightful and comforting joy of evangelising. The exercise of co-responsibility is essential for synodality and is necessary at all levels of the Church. Each Christian is a mission on this earth.
The family is the pillar of every Christian community. Parents, grandparents, and all those who live and share their faith in the family are the first missionaries. As a community of life and love, the family is a privileged place of education in faith and Christian practice, one that needs special accompaniment within communities. Support is especially needed for parents who must reconcile work within the Church community and in service to its mission with the demands of family life.
If the mission is a grace involving all the Church, the lay faithful contribute in a vital way to advancing that mission in all areas and in the ordinary situations of every day. Above all, it is they who make the Church present and who proclaim the Gospel, for example, in digital culture, which has such a strong impact throughout the world; in youth culture; in the world of work and business, politics, and the arts and culture; in scientific research, education, and training; in the care of our common home; and especially through participation in public life. Wherever they are present, they are called to witness to Jesus Christ in daily life and to share the faith with others explicitly. In a special way, young people, with their gifts and fragilities, growing in friendship with Jesus, become apostles of the Gospel to their peers.
The lay faithful are also increasingly present and active in service within Christian communities. Many of them organise and animate pastoral communities, serve as religious educators, theologians and formators, spiritual animators and catechists, and participate in various parish and diocesan bodies. In many regions, the life of Christian communities and the mission of the Church depends upon catechists. In addition, lay people serve in safeguarding and administration. All of these contributions are indispensable to the mission of the Church; for this reason, the acquisition of necessary competences should be provided for.
In their immense variety, the charisms of the laity represent distinct gifts to the Church from the Holy Spirit that must be called forth, recognised, and fully appreciated. In some situations, the laity may be called to help make up for the shortage of priests, with the danger that the lay character of their apostolate risks being diminished. In other contexts, it may be that priests do everything themselves and thus, the charisms and ministries of the laity are ignored or underutilized. In all contexts, there is a danger, that was expressed by many at the Assembly, of "clericalising" the laity, creating a kind of lay elite that perpetuates inequalities and divisions among the People of God.
The mission ad gentes is mutually enriching for the Churches because it not only the missionaries themselves but the entire community, which in this way is inspired to prayer, the sharing of goods, and witness. Churches lacking clergy should not give up this commitment, while those with more vocations to the ordained ministry benefit from cooperating pastorally in a genuinely evangelical manner. All the missionaries -- laymen and women, those in consecrated life, deacons and priests, and particularly the members of missionary institutes and “fidei donum” missionaries -- are important for creating bonds of knowledge and exchanging gifts.
The Church's mission is continually renewed and nourished by the Eucharist, particularly when its communal and missionary nature is fully expressed.
Matters for Consideration
There is a need to continue to deepen the theological understanding of the relationships between charisms and ministries in a missionary key.
Vatican II and subsequent magisterial teaching present the distinctive mission of the laity in terms of the sanctification of temporal or secular realities. However, the reality is that pastoral practice at the parish, diocesan and, recently, even universal levels, increasingly entrusts lay people with tasks and ministries within the Church itself. Theological reflection and canonical provisions need to be reconciled with these important developments and to avoid dualisms that could compromise the perception of the unity of the Church’s mission.
In promoting the co-responsibility of all the baptized for mission we recognise the apostolic capacities of persons with disabilities. We want to better value the contribution to evangelisation offered by the immense richness of their humanity. We recognise their experiences of suffering, marginalisation and discrimination, sometimes occurring even within the Christian community.
Pastoral structures need to be reorganised so they can readily recognise, call forth, and animate lay charisms and ministries, inserting them into the missionary dynamism of the synodal Church. Under the guidance of their pastors, the communities will be able to send people and sustain those they have sent on mission. In this way, these structures will primarily be at the service of the faithful's mission within society, in the family, and in work life, rather than focusing exclusively on internal matters or organisational concerns.
The expression "an all-ministerial Church," used in the Instrumentum laboris, can lend itself to misunderstanding. Its meaning will have to be clarified in order to remove any ambiguities.
Proposals
We need more creativity in establishing ministries according to local churches' needs, with the young's particular involvement. One can think of further expanding responsibilities assigned to the existing ministry of lector, which are already broader than those performed in the liturgy. This could become a fuller ministry of the Word of God, which, in appropriate contexts, could also include preaching. We could also explore the possibility of establishing a ministry assigned to married couples committed to supporting family life and accompanying people preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage.
Local churches are invited to consider appropriate means and moments of acknowledgment by the community of lay charisms and ministries. This could happen on the occasion of a liturgical celebration in which the pastoral mandate is bestowed.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Royalty-free stock photo ID: 1358932310 - Pope Francis, Important information. Editorial Use Only.Photo Contributor: GYG Studio
Source: https://www.synod.va/en/synodal-process/the-universal-phase/documents.html
What is the purpose of Market On Fairway.?
A place where creativity and concern for personal income open doors to a world of dreams.
I invite you to participate without the commitment of a contract or exuberant exposure, your work has a lot of value as each discovers their talent. All applications will be emailed, I hope to hear from you. From Grace R. grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com
A pope (and a God) too merciful?
What's up with the Catholics who are furious with Pope Francis for saying he hopes there's no one in Hell?
By Robert Mickens | Italy
"I like to think of Hell as being empty. I hope it is."
That was Pope Francis' response when asked how he imagines Hell during a recent interview on a popular TV talk show that airs each Sunday evening in Italy.The show's host and his studio audience erupted in applause at the pope's response. And the 3.4 million viewers throughout the country who tuned-in to the January 14 broadcast of "Che Tempo Che Fa" were likely heartened by it, too. Hell no! Even though Francis prefaced his answer to the question by stating clearly that it was "not a dogma of faith" he was expressing but his "own personal thought", some people in cyberspace freaked out."Social media in flames: Pope targeted for not preaching fire and brimstone," said the clever headline of an article written by Cindy Wooden, the Rome bureau chief of Catholic News Service (CNS). And from what one could see on X (former Twitter), the gist of their anger is that the Jesuit pope's words are "dangerous" because they will lead people astray and encourage them to abandon "a serious practice of the faith". They are suggesting that if we start saying no one is going to Hell, this will open the door to "anything goes". And then, what's the point of "being good" or following the rules?
Your imagine of Hell may match your image of God
Before unpacking all that, we need to give a bit more context to the hour-long interview that Francis did via video-link from his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. The question about Hell came at the very end of a segment that began when the TV host, Fabio Fazio, asked him, "When you pray, how do you imagine the face of God?"The pope said his image of God was like the "generous father" in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Francis pointed out that the son had "prepared a speech" to ask his father's forgiveness, but before he could even get the words out of his mouth, his father immediately embraced him. He didn't allow the son to speak, the pope said. "I like to think of God like this, as embracing us," Francis said, adding that God knows even better than us that we are sinners. And he said that's why he believes in "a God who is not scandalized by our sins because he is a father and accompanies us".The pope then went further."Does God accompany sinners or immediately condemn them to Hell? No, he chooses to accompany us. The Lord sent his son into the world, not to condemn the world but to save it... we say it in the liturgy," he concluded."So it's hard to even imagine Hell, a father who condemns someone for all eternity," Fazio commented. "Yes, it's difficult to imagine this," Francis said, before adding those few words to express the hope that Hell is empty.
Reacting like the older son in the parable
It's a shame to say, but those (or at least some of those) who have reacted negatively to Pope Francis' words about Hell are very similar to the older brother in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. He's furious that his father is so merciful. The older son has followed the rules, has been obedient, and has worked hard for his father. His "good for nothing brother", on the other hand, has gone and squandered his inheritance through a life of debauchery and loose morals. Why should their father now welcome him back home like a hero, throwing him a lavish dinner party and giving him a ring and expensive clothes? It's just not fair.Similarly, in the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard it is not fair that the landowner pays the people who worked only one hour the exact same wage he gives to those who labored all day under the hot sun. The first crew complains (the verse says they are "envious") because the landowner is "generous". And that is exactly how the pope describes the father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. He calls him the "generous father".Of course, the wealthy landowner and the "prodigal" father (another meaning of prodigal is, after all, "to give lavishly"), are not being fair -- by normal human standards. And that is the hitch here. "'My thoughts are not your thoughts, and neither are your ways my ways,' says the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8)... and we could list scores (perhaps hundreds) of other verses from Sacred Scripture to show how God's logic is different from our human logic, and how God's justice is restorative justice, not the retributive justice that seems clearly to be the type we humans prefer and believe is right.
Grappling with paradox
Leaving aside the theological arguments about whether anyone is actually in Hell, which is not a physical place but is taught as the state of absolute alienation from God, there is also the issue of paradox. We mere mortals seem to struggle with accepting paradoxes. We are trained to think categorically, dualistically, and it is hard to see how good and evil sit side-by-side even as part of God's plan -- or at least as a result of the infinite patience that is part of who this "generous father" is. The Parable of the Weeds and the Wheat naturally baffles us. Why does God allow the weeds (evil) to continue to grow among the wheat (goodness)? We don't often do that in our own lives. But evidently God does, according to Jesus. And, of course, we ourselves are all a field of weeds and wheat, as the pope has reminded us before. He's pointed out that the line of good and evil runs through every human heart.But we grapple with such paradoxes. Why is this when we are able to believe that Jesus of Nazareth was both human and divine; that he died, and yet God raised him to life; that dying and rising is indeed the very pattern of all life and creation; that bread and wine can be transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ? Given all this, why is it so difficult for us to believe that God, in a similarly mysterious and humanly illogical way, can save from eternal damnation even those whom we believe are the most vile and unrepentant sinners?Obviously, this says more about any one of us than it does about God. And while it is not a Church dogma, Pope Francis has reminded us that Jesus used a parable to show us that God is a "generous father" who does not condemn us but who accompanies us even as we sin. This is the God who "embraces" us even before we are able to ask for forgiveness. It is hard to imagine that this God would condemn someone for all eternity, isn't it? "Yes," says the pope. "It is difficult to imagine."
Read more at: https://international.la-croix.com/news/letter-from-rome/a-pope-and-a-god-too-merciful/19043
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/)
The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 24”
An ancient medieval practice that developed in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk at the epiphany each year. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
Meaning that 2000 years ago, after Christ’s birth, Wise Men visited and gave homage to the Lord and were welcomed into the hospitality of the Holy Family’s abode. We dedicate the present year of this century, ‘24, to the protection of the Lord. May the Lord bless this abode.
The letters C+M+B represent the names Caspar, Bathasar and Melchior, the three Wise Men. CMB is also the initials of the latin phrase “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling-place.”
RECONCILIATION
Sacred Heart Church Weekly
(50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters)
(SACRAMENT OF PENANCE)
SATURDAYS FROM 4 PM TO 4.30 PM
(PLEASE DO NOT JOIN THE QUEUE AFTER 4.20 PM).
ON CONCLUSION OF RECONCILIATIONS AT 4.30 PM, WE APPRECIATE YOUR COOPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING THAT THE PRIEST WILL THEN BE DOING THEIR FINAL PREPARATIONS FOR THE CELEBRATION OF MASS.
CONFESSIONS CAN ALSO BE MADE BY PRIOR APPOINTMENT AT OTHER TIMES
[IF YOU NEED TO SPEAK WITH A PRIEST FOR A LONGER TIME THAN A BRIEF CONFESSION, PLEASE MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE OFFICE FOR A TIME WHEN YOU CAN DISCUSS ISSUES WITH A PRIEST AT A LONGER APPOINTMENT]
St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
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