PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“If you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” (Mark 1:40-41)
Pastor’s Post:
ASH WEDNESDAY MASSES - WEDNESDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2024
St Vincent’s 7 am - (Surfers Paradise).
Stella Maris 7 am - (Broadbeach)-
Sacred Heart 9 am - (Clear Island Waters)
Sacred Heart 6 pm - (Clear Island Waters)
Also:
Stations of the Cross each Friday of Lent at 6 pm at Sacred Heart Church,
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. From Friday 16th February 2024 to Friday 22nd March.
The Season of Lent is almost upon us. The various Prefaces refer to Lent as a “Sacred time,” when our hearts are “filled with joy” as we prepare. Lent's true purpose is: “Our self-denial should give God thanks, humble our sinful pride, contribute to the feeding of the poor, and so help us imitate God in his kindness.”
Therefore, lenten prayer and penance is not really about punishing ourselves for our sins, nor is it a time to “try harder” or exert more human willpower over sin. Instead, it is a time when we clear the barriers to allow God’s grace to work deeply within our hearts and minds. Giving up things helps us focus more on the lasting values of Christ. It also frees up energy and resources that we can put into helping those in need and concentrate on God’s priorities. The prayer, penance and acts of charity all open us up more to God’s ways and not merely ours.
Here is a handy guide to the pattern of our Lenten observances:
Days of Penance
Abstinence for meat and fasting are to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Fasting is the equivalent of eating only one meal in that day (although a few smaller meals that add up to the equivalent of one meal are also acceptable). Fasting does not apply in ill health situations, where recommended meals are advisable.
All who have completed their 18th year and have not yet begun their 60th year are bound to fast. All who have completed their 14th year are bound to abstain. Abstaining can be giving up anything that helps to clear any barriers to us living and breathing Christ’s Gospel. Abstinence does not necessarily include food and is distinct from fasting.
On all other Fridays of the year, the law of the common practice of penance is fulfilled by performing any one of the following:
(a) prayer – as, for example, mass attendance; family prayer; a visit to a church or chapel; reading the Bible; making the stations of the cross; praying the rosary; or in other ways;
(b) self-denial – e.g. not eating meat; not eating sweets or dessert; giving up entertainment to spend time with the family; limiting food and drink so as to give to the poor of one’s own country and elsewhere; or in other ways;
(c) helping others – e.g., paying particular attention to the poor, sick, elderly, lonely, or overburdened, or in other ways.
Holy Days of Obligation
The holy days of obligation in Australia are:
All Sundays of the year
Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
These last two holy days of obligation are to be observed annually, regardless of the day of the week on which they fall.
PASCHAL PRECEPT
Each faithful person is obliged to receive Holy Communion at least once a year. This is to be done between Ash Wednesday, February 10, and Trinity Sunday unless, for a good reason, it is done at another time during the year. All the faithful are obliged to confess any grave sins as soon as possible at any time of year.
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 see this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - (It is updated at intervals just before the following Sunday or Feastday - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk.
Prayer for Peace - In Nigeria. From Catholic Missions
Loving God, We pray for peace and reconciliation in Nigeria, seeking hope amidst the despair.
Grant strength to those who have lost family and friends, comforting their sorrow.
Grant eternal rest to those whose lives have been lost due to violence and conflict.
Hear the heartfelt prayers of those enduring instability to those grappling with fear and uncertainty.
Be their steadfast rock and shield.
Give your people the wisdom to navigate difficult times and find a way forward.
Give your people the courage to be peacemakers and guide them toward peace.
Amen.
Learn more about how you can help train seminarians in needy communities by visiting catholicmission.org.au/peace or scanning the QR code.
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens
and Full Communion of Candidates
Presentation to the Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Community
11th February 2024 Sacred Heart Church
We will welcome those Catechumens and Candidates who have commenced a journey of enquiry and faith towards Easter in 2024.
Catechumens – Kelly Friend, Cory Schumacher, Jacinta Andrews and her daughter Evie, Satoshi Tetsuo are seeking Baptism.
Candidates – Wendy Tetsuo is seeking Full Communion with the Catholic Church through Confirmation and First Holy Communion and
- Axel Friend and Oliver Friend, Diana Vargas and Julian Rivers are to be Confirmed and receive First Holy Communion.
We will celebrate their Rite of Acceptance and Presentation of the Bible at the 6 pm Mass at Sacred Heart Church on Sunday, 11th February 2024 and invite all Parishioners of our Parish to pray for our Catechumens and Candidates during this journey to Easter as they come to know Jesus more deeply in their lives and to join us each week in celebrating the Mass.
We ask for many blessings on all who journey in faith and offer our support and prayers for you and your families during this time.
IMAGE FROM SAINT VINCENT'S CHURCH - LAST WEEKEND’S “WORD OF GOD SUNDAY,” DISPLAY
PILGRIMAGE WITH FR DAN RYAN
Bookings for Fr Dan’s trip to France are closing at the end of February.
If you would like more information please contact Harvest Journeys harvestjourneys.com or phone 1800 819 156
-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, King Charles III, 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, 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):
Robert Reed, George Beljak, Pavo Dronjic, Dudley Plunkett, Laurel Goddard, Chris Girvan, Franco Innocenti, Mirko Papak, Sybil Vos, Allan Endicott, John Grimley, Marcella Wockner, Beryl Dorfield.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Marija Ac, Patricia Anderson, Valma Brew, Helen Bruce, Sue Chard, Sue Crossdale, Leila Floyd, Mary Agnes Joan Geard, Barry Thomas Haug, Len Heffernan, James Douglas Hendrie, Fr John Hennessy, Fr Reginald Keating, Lara Michelle Kennedy, Fr Bryan Lee, Terry Maher, Angelina Mandarino, George McLeod, Joyce Lilian Mitchell, Myra Edna Moffatt, Alan Morgan, Colman O'Byrne, Mollie O'Byrne, Jim O’Hagan, Fr Gervase Pender, Peg Perkins, Rose Refalo, Charles Robinson, James Ryan, Antonija Saceric, Marie Patricia Sullivan, Norman James Thomson, Nikola Trajkovski.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Victoria Alexander, Nicholas Eamon Ashworth, Paul Barry, Mark Christopher Behan, Judith Boggan, Naurelle Cahill, Irene Cappellazzo, Sarah Clancy, Mark Connell, Peter Cotton, Mons David Dee, Fr Pat Dowd, Bette Edwards, Peter James Evert, James John (Jim) Gardiner, Jan Grammer, Alan Hague, James Hendrie, Fr William Hogan, Bob Jackson, Judith Anne Jones, Peter Francis Kennedy, Wendy (Wen) Maclachlan, Vern William Mannix, Colleen Eileen McCarthy, Nora Winifred (Freda) McGrath, Gloria Mcleod, Dalton, Michael, Patricia Powell, Peter James Ryan, Hipolito Trochon, Gary Patrick Walsh, Geoffrey Williams.
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
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
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES.
A Resurrected Life is a new 6-week reflection pocket book that can be used during Lent by everyone. Each reflection is written to help us sit with God and to trust Him to lead us forward. Available now until sold out $6.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at the Sacred Heart Church, prior to the 9 am Mass, at 8:15am, Monday to Friday including First Saturdays.
ASH WEDNESDAY MASSES - WEDNESDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2024
St Vincent’s 7 am - (Surfers Paradise). Fr Warren Kinne.
Stella Maris 7 am - (Broadbeach)- Fr Bernie.
Sacred Heart 9 am - (Clear Island Waters) Fr Paul
Sacred Heart 6 pm - (Clear Island Waters) Fr Anthony
Also:
Stations of the Cross each Friday of Lent at 6 pm at Sacred Heart Church,
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. From 16th February 2024.
Information morning: Pastoral care to the sick in hospitals (volunteer role).
In conjunction with the Institute of Faith Education, Centacare will conduct a registered training course in spiritual and pastoral care for the sick in 2024. Date of the information session:
Wednesday 6 March, 10 am – 1 pm, Level 1, Cathedral House 229 Elizabeth St, Bne City. Please note: If there is sufficient interest from Gold Coast parishes, an information session will be arranged in your area. For further information or to attend the information morning, please email judy.norris@bne.centacare.net.au or phone 3324 3193.
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
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 0409840693.
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 0493742670.
LENTEN PROGRAM starts from 13th February after meditation - from 10.45am to 11.45am with Living In Harmony Program from Garratt Publishing as the resource material.
Everyone is welcome to attend both or just the lenten program.
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.
LENT 2024 WITH THE CATHOLIC GUY, BRUCE DOWNES
Lent is a time when we can grow closer to God and prepare our hearts for the true meaning of Easter. Be inspired. Be refreshed. Be renewed!
For 40 days you will receive a short, practical and inspiring video in your inbox every morning to help you make this Lenten journey more powerful and prayerful. This program is FREE and you can sign up here: https://BruceDownes.org/Lent
Go to BruceDownes.org for more information.
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/
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.
YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE
Symphony of prayer and praise:
No one beyond reach
Loving God, Open our ears to hear the cries of our sisters and brothers and of the earth, our common home.
Open our eyes to the scandal of poverty and injustice in the world.
Open our hearts to feel the pain, the hurt, the hunger of one another.
Open our mouths to speak of the dignity of each person, precious in your sight.
Open our arms wide to reach out with compassion so that all distance vanishes.
Open our hearts to share your love and our hope for a world where no one is beyond reach.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord, Amen.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Today’s Gospel says that: “Jesus was moved with pity when He saw a leper”. Are you moved with love or pity when you see the outcast of today’s society? Who will come forward to minister Christ today?
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, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.”- 1 Corinthians 10:31
Do a quick check of your priorities. Where does God rank in that list? If He’s not first, you have some work to do. Putting God first in everything helps us from putting other “gods” (like our pride, ego, money and possessions) before God. Before making a decision, ask yourself, “Am I doing this for the glory of God or for the glory of me?”
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 -
Fasting -
Refraining from food and drink for religious purposes. Biblically, it implied not eating or drinking from morning till evening.
The Catholic Church defines fasting as one full meal daily, with two additional breaks. Catholics observe a eucharistic fast and abstain from food and drink one hour prior to receiving Holy Communion. They also fast annually on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday if in good health and between the ages of 21 and 59.
CONTEXT
Do you wish your prayer to fly toward God? Make for it two wings: fasting and almsgiving. —Saint Augustine
There’s something about it that makes sense, Lent. You give something up, and everything’s more joyful. —Elaine Stritch
When my stomach hungers from fasting, it is a reminder of the spiritual hunger my soul experiences at every moment of my existence. —Bishop Robert Baron
WHY IT MATTERS
When we're self-sufficient, it's easy to forget that God is our ultimate source of life and hope. Fasting is a visceral reminder to trust in God. Fasting helps us to detach from worldly things not because they are bad but to remind us that God is the source of all gifts.
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “Fasting and abstinence . . . help us acquire mastery over our instincts and freedom of heart" (2043).
RELATED WORDS
Abstinence | Sacrifice | Ascesis | Mortification
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Why do we fast?
Why fast? Our survival requires us to eat and drink. When we refrain from these most basic activities, it reminds us that "we do not live by bread alone." Fasting provides us with an opportunity to affirm our faith in God's providential care.
Fasting as a spiritual practice falls into the category of sacrifice. As in other acts of religious sacrifice, fasting takes something away from us. Fasting stirs us to contemplate justice—many in this world go without food—and motivates us to pray in a deeper, richer way. Because we don't want to do it, fasting is regarded as a penitential practice: We do it in reparation for sin, ours and the world's.
When you think of everything fasting can do—encourage fidelity and humility, awaken the spirit of justice, enhance prayer, assist those who are tempted—the question becomes: Why not fast?
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask: http://tinyurl.com/QCA-fasting
REFLECTION OF THE WEEK
ASH WEDNESDAY, DAY OF FAST AND ABSTINENCE (FEBRUARY 14)
The spirit of our fasting
Fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are ancient spiritual practices that foster humility and charity. In the words of fifth-century Doctor of the Church Peter Chrysologus: “When you fast, see the fasting of others. If you want God to know you are hungry, know that another is hungry. If you hope for mercy, show mercy. If you look for kindness, show kindness. If you want to receive, give.”
“When you fast, do not look gloomy." (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18).
FAITH IN ACTION.
Use fasting as a way to see more clearly the things you’ve missed by inattention.
ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Illustration ID: 2259208961 - Jesus Christ of Nazareth Touching a Leper to Heal Him - Illustration Contributor: Carolangoni
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
The Gospel today is a wonderful example of God's great desire to reach out and touch us…… to include and heal us. There is sadly much illness and suffering in the world. We pray that those who are sick, will be healed of their illness and brought out of their suffering…..and in every case may the Lord certainly touch their lives with peace and strength and assure them that God is with them in this difficult journey….
++++++++++++
Today's Gospel makes it really clear that God loves us completely and desires that we be healed, freed from the burden of suffering and reunited with our community…… Jesus is the compassion of God…. And Jesus shows us the endless depths of that compassion and love for us…. God loves us so much that Jesus reaches out and touches us…
Because Jesus is God the son, he could simply have said to the leper, 'you are healed' and he would have been…. But the poor man was suffering illness,…. He was isolated from his community….. he was alone…. And Jesus reaches out and touches him to bring him back into the community… and heal his Spirit too……..
Jesus is not just in the midst of suffering… he is to be found abiding within the people who suffer, as well as in the people who reach out to help…… God, whose essential nature is loving and compassionate and deeply involved in our lives and who promises us much more than physical or emotional healing, but a cherished place in God's family forever.
Those he cured would eventually get sick again and eventually all reach the end of their lives... but he was offering them a reassurance of God's ultimate faithfulness to them - peace through the assurance of their membership in God's family that will stay with them in this life and the next
Jesus also shows us God's attitude towards our suffering when Jesus declares "of course I want to heal you!" God's compassion and love for others is the key to everything Jesus says and does. Jesus put people first and at the same time put his heavenly Father first, because the love of God, love of neighbour and love and care of oneself are different aspects of the same one teaching. St Paul in the second reading.. sums up what it's all about in our ministries and service… "Whatever you do at all, do it for the glory of God. ……try to be helpful to everyone at all times, not anxious for my own advantage but for the advantage of everybody else, so that they may be saved." And that is at the heart of what we do… everything for the honour and glory of God….
References: HOMILY — Fr Paul W. Kelly; Abbot's Homilies - Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert.. (2009) [online] Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert. Available at: https://christdesert.org/updates/abbots-homilies;
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Illustration ID: 2259208961 - Jesus Christ of Nazareth Touching a Leper to Heal Him - Illustration Contributor: Carolangoni
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 Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order - 17 February. In 1233, these prominent businessmen from Florence (Italy) withdrew to a life of solitude, prayer, and penance. They developed into an order of mendicant friars (Servants of Mary). They are remembered for their radical response to the demands of the gospel.
Buonfiglio dei Monaldi (Bonfilius), Giovanni di Buonagiunta (Bonajuncta), Amadeus of the Amidei (Bartolomeus), Ricovero dei Lippi-Ugguccioni (Hugh), Benedetto dell’ Antella (Manettus), Gherardino di Sostegno (Sostene), and Alessio de’ Falconieri (Alexius). These men founded the Servite Order in 1233 dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. One of their popular devotions is the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows:
1. THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON ―And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against, and a sword will pierce through your own soul also, that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34–35). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart upon hearing Simeon‘s prophecy, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to God‘s people Israel‖ (cf. Luke 2:32). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
2. THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT ―And an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “‘Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child to destroy him.‘ And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt have I called my Son‘” (Matthew 2:13–15). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart at the flight into Egypt by night, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, born ―to save his people from their sins‖ (Matthew 1:21). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
3. THE LOSS OF JESUS FOR THREE DAYS ―And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.‘ And he said to them, ‘How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father‘s house?‘” (Luke 2:48–49). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when together with Saint Joseph you searched for Jesus for three days, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―full of grace and truth‖ (John 1:14). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
4. HER MEETING JESUS, CARRYING HIS CROSS ―”He was oppressed and was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth. . . . Yet he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:7, 12). “Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you encountered your Jesus bearing His cross, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
5. HER STANDING BENEATH THE CROSS ON CALVARY ―”But standing by the Cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother‘s sister, Mary, the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold your son!‘ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!‘ And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home’ “(John 19:25-27). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you saw your Child‘s hands and feet nailed to the wood of the Cross and His side pierced by the soldier‘s lance, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus Crucified, bowed in death. One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
6. THE SACRED BODY OF JESUS, TAKEN DOWN FROM THE CROSS ―”What can I say for you, to what compare you, O daughter of Jerusalem? What can I liken to you, that I may comfort you, O virgin daughter of Sion? For vast as the sea is your ruin; who can restore you? Cry aloud to the Lord! O daughter of Sion! Let tears stream down like a torrent day and night! Give yourself no rest, your eyes no respite” (Lamentations 2:13, 18). 4 Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you beheld the lifeless Body of Jesus taken down from the cross, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ― “beautiful above the sons of men” (Psalm 44:3). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
7. HER WITNESSING THE BURIAL OF THE SACRED BODY OF HER SON ― “Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud, and laid it in a rock–hewn tomb, where no one had ever yet been laid. It was the Day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and saw the tomb, and how the body was laid; then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment” (Luke 23:52–55). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you beheld the Body of Jesus wrapped in a linen shroud and laid in the tomb, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, covered with a veil in death. One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
In honor of the tears shed by Our Lady during these Seven Dolors: three Hail Marys. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, grant that I may weep for my sins.” Hail Mary. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, soften the hardened hearts of sinners.” Hail Mary. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, allow me to make reparation for my sins.” Hail Mary
(https://the-american-catholic.com/2020/02/17/saint-of-the-day-quote-142/)
POPE FRANCIS: Continuing the summary on Session One of the Synod on Synodality.
+
10. Consecrated Life and Lay Associations and Movements: A Charismatic Sign
Convergences
The Church has always benefitted from the gift of charisms, be it from the most extraordinary to the simplest. Through them, the Holy Spirit rejuvenates and renews the Church with joy and gratitude. The Holy People of God recognise in these charisms the providential help with which God sustains, directs and illuminates His mission.
The Church’s charismatic dimension is made manifest in the rich and varied forms of consecrated life. This testimony has contributed to renewing the life of the ecclesial community in every age and provides an antidote to the perennial temptation towards worldliness. The diverse families that compose religious life demonstrate the beauty of discipleship and holiness in Christ, whether in their distinctive forms of prayer, their service among the people, whether through forms of community life, the solitude of the contemplative life or at the frontier of new cultures. Those in consecrated life have often been the first to sense important historical changes and to heed the promptings of the Spirit. Today, too, the Church needs their prophetic voice and action. The Christian community also recognises and wishes to be attentive to the practices of synodal life and discernment that have been tried and tested in communities of consecrated life, maturing over the centuries. We know that we can learn from them wisdom in how to walk the synodal path. Many Congregations and Institutes practice conversation in the Spirit or similar forms of discernment in the conduct of provincial and general chapters, in order to renew structures, rethink lifestyles, and activate innovative forms of service and proximity to the poorest. In other cases, however, we find the persistence of an authoritarian style, which makes no room for dialogue.
With equal gratitude, the People of God recognize the seeds of renewal in communities with a long history that has blossomed into new ecclesial communities. Lay associations, ecclesial movements and new communities are a precious sign of the maturation of the co-responsibility of all the baptized. They hold particular value because of their experience in promoting communion among different vocations, the impetus with which they proclaim the Gospel, their proximity to those on the margins economically and socially and through their promotion of the common good. They are often models of synodal communion and of participation for mission.
Cases of abuse of various kinds experienced by those in religious life and members of lay associations, especially of women, signal a problem in the exercise of authority and demand decisive and appropriate interventions.
Matters for Consideration
The Church's magisterium has a well-developed body of teaching on the importance of both hierarchical and charismatic gifts in the life and mission of the Church. This calls for growth in ecclesial understanding and in theological reflection. It is therefore worth considering anew the ecclesiological significance and concrete pastoral implications of this teaching.
The variety of charismatic expressions in the Church underscores the People of God’s commitment to being a prophetic presence in proximity to the least of our sisters and brothers, and to providing contemporary culture with a deeper sense of the spiritual aspects of life. There is a need to develop a more profound understanding of how consecrated life, as well as lay associations, ecclesial movements, and new communities, place their charisms at the service of communion and mission in local churches, augmenting existing paths towards holiness with a presence that is prophetic.
Proposals
We believe the time has come for a revision of the 1978 document Mutuae Relationes, regarding the relationships between bishops and religious in the Church. We propose that this revision be completed in a synodal manner, consulting all involved.
To the same end, it is necessary to put in place, in a synodal spirit, means and instruments for promoting encounters and forms of collaboration between Episcopal Conferences and the Conferences of Superiors and Major Superiors of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of
Apostolic Life.
At the level of both individual local churches and groupings of Churches, the promotion of missionary synodality requires the establishment and configuration of councils and advisory bodies at which representatives of lay associations, ecclesial movements and new communities can meet in order to foster enduring relationships between their life and work and that of the local churches.
In theological formation at all levels, above all in the formation of ordained ministers, the prominence given to the Church’s charismatic dimension should be monitored and strengthened where necessary.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2181386209 - Important information - Editorial Use Only. -Photo Contributor: Noel Mallia
Source: https://www.synod.va/en/synodal-process/the-universal-phase/documents.htm
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety
……………..See overleaf …..
St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
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.”
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, King Charles III, 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, 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):
Robert Reed, George Beljak, Pavo Dronjic, Dudley Plunkett, Laurel Goddard, Chris Girvan, Franco Innocenti, Mirko Papak, Sybil Vos, Allan Endicott, John Grimley, Marcella Wockner, Beryl Dorfield.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Marija Ac, Patricia Anderson, Valma Brew, Helen Bruce, Sue Chard, Sue Crossdale, Leila Floyd, Mary Agnes Joan Geard, Barry Thomas Haug, Len Heffernan, James Douglas Hendrie, Fr John Hennessy, Fr Reginald Keating, Lara Michelle Kennedy, Fr Bryan Lee, Terry Maher, Angelina Mandarino, George McLeod, Joyce Lilian Mitchell, Myra Edna Moffatt, Alan Morgan, Colman O'Byrne, Mollie O'Byrne, Jim O’Hagan, Fr Gervase Pender, Peg Perkins, Rose Refalo, Charles Robinson, James Ryan, Antonija Saceric, Marie Patricia Sullivan, Norman James Thomson, Nikola Trajkovski.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Victoria Alexander, Nicholas Eamon Ashworth, Paul Barry, Mark Christopher Behan, Judith Boggan, Naurelle Cahill, Irene Cappellazzo, Sarah Clancy, Mark Connell, Peter Cotton, Mons David Dee, Fr Pat Dowd, Bette Edwards, Peter James Evert, James John (Jim) Gardiner, Jan Grammer, Alan Hague, James Hendrie, Fr William Hogan, Bob Jackson, Judith Anne Jones, Peter Francis Kennedy, Wendy (Wen) Maclachlan, Vern William Mannix, Colleen Eileen McCarthy, Nora Winifred (Freda) McGrath, Gloria Mcleod, Dalton, Michael, Patricia Powell, Peter James Ryan, Hipolito Trochon, Gary Patrick Walsh, Geoffrey Williams.
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
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
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES.
A Resurrected Life is a new 6-week reflection pocket book that can be used during Lent by everyone. Each reflection is written to help us sit with God and to trust Him to lead us forward. Available now until sold out $6.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at the Sacred Heart Church, prior to the 9 am Mass, at 8:15am, Monday to Friday including First Saturdays.
ASH WEDNESDAY MASSES - WEDNESDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2024
St Vincent’s 7 am - (Surfers Paradise). Fr Warren Kinne.
Stella Maris 7 am - (Broadbeach)- Fr Bernie.
Sacred Heart 9 am - (Clear Island Waters) Fr Paul
Sacred Heart 6 pm - (Clear Island Waters) Fr Anthony
Also:
Stations of the Cross each Friday of Lent at 6 pm at Sacred Heart Church,
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. From 16th February 2024.
Information morning: Pastoral care to the sick in hospitals (volunteer role).
In conjunction with the Institute of Faith Education, Centacare will conduct a registered training course in spiritual and pastoral care for the sick in 2024. Date of the information session:
Wednesday 6 March, 10 am – 1 pm, Level 1, Cathedral House 229 Elizabeth St, Bne City. Please note: If there is sufficient interest from Gold Coast parishes, an information session will be arranged in your area. For further information or to attend the information morning, please email judy.norris@bne.centacare.net.au or phone 3324 3193.
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
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 0409840693.
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 0493742670.
LENTEN PROGRAM starts from 13th February after meditation - from 10.45am to 11.45am with Living In Harmony Program from Garratt Publishing as the resource material.
Everyone is welcome to attend both or just the lenten program.
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.
LENT 2024 WITH THE CATHOLIC GUY, BRUCE DOWNES
Lent is a time when we can grow closer to God and prepare our hearts for the true meaning of Easter. Be inspired. Be refreshed. Be renewed!
For 40 days you will receive a short, practical and inspiring video in your inbox every morning to help you make this Lenten journey more powerful and prayerful. This program is FREE and you can sign up here: https://BruceDownes.org/Lent
Go to BruceDownes.org for more information.
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/
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.
YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE
Symphony of prayer and praise:
No one beyond reach
Loving God, Open our ears to hear the cries of our sisters and brothers and of the earth, our common home.
Open our eyes to the scandal of poverty and injustice in the world.
Open our hearts to feel the pain, the hurt, the hunger of one another.
Open our mouths to speak of the dignity of each person, precious in your sight.
Open our arms wide to reach out with compassion so that all distance vanishes.
Open our hearts to share your love and our hope for a world where no one is beyond reach.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord, Amen.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Today’s Gospel says that: “Jesus was moved with pity when He saw a leper”. Are you moved with love or pity when you see the outcast of today’s society? Who will come forward to minister Christ today?
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, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.”- 1 Corinthians 10:31
Do a quick check of your priorities. Where does God rank in that list? If He’s not first, you have some work to do. Putting God first in everything helps us from putting other “gods” (like our pride, ego, money and possessions) before God. Before making a decision, ask yourself, “Am I doing this for the glory of God or for the glory of me?”
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 -
Fasting -
Refraining from food and drink for religious purposes. Biblically, it implied not eating or drinking from morning till evening.
The Catholic Church defines fasting as one full meal daily, with two additional breaks. Catholics observe a eucharistic fast and abstain from food and drink one hour prior to receiving Holy Communion. They also fast annually on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday if in good health and between the ages of 21 and 59.
CONTEXT
Do you wish your prayer to fly toward God? Make for it two wings: fasting and almsgiving. —Saint Augustine
There’s something about it that makes sense, Lent. You give something up, and everything’s more joyful. —Elaine Stritch
When my stomach hungers from fasting, it is a reminder of the spiritual hunger my soul experiences at every moment of my existence. —Bishop Robert Baron
WHY IT MATTERS
When we're self-sufficient, it's easy to forget that God is our ultimate source of life and hope. Fasting is a visceral reminder to trust in God. Fasting helps us to detach from worldly things not because they are bad but to remind us that God is the source of all gifts.
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “Fasting and abstinence . . . help us acquire mastery over our instincts and freedom of heart" (2043).
RELATED WORDS
Abstinence | Sacrifice | Ascesis | Mortification
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Why do we fast?
Why fast? Our survival requires us to eat and drink. When we refrain from these most basic activities, it reminds us that "we do not live by bread alone." Fasting provides us with an opportunity to affirm our faith in God's providential care.
Fasting as a spiritual practice falls into the category of sacrifice. As in other acts of religious sacrifice, fasting takes something away from us. Fasting stirs us to contemplate justice—many in this world go without food—and motivates us to pray in a deeper, richer way. Because we don't want to do it, fasting is regarded as a penitential practice: We do it in reparation for sin, ours and the world's.
When you think of everything fasting can do—encourage fidelity and humility, awaken the spirit of justice, enhance prayer, assist those who are tempted—the question becomes: Why not fast?
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask: http://tinyurl.com/QCA-fasting
REFLECTION OF THE WEEK
ASH WEDNESDAY, DAY OF FAST AND ABSTINENCE (FEBRUARY 14)
The spirit of our fasting
Fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are ancient spiritual practices that foster humility and charity. In the words of fifth-century Doctor of the Church Peter Chrysologus: “When you fast, see the fasting of others. If you want God to know you are hungry, know that another is hungry. If you hope for mercy, show mercy. If you look for kindness, show kindness. If you want to receive, give.”
“When you fast, do not look gloomy." (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18).
FAITH IN ACTION.
Use fasting as a way to see more clearly the things you’ve missed by inattention.
ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL -
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Illustration ID: 2259208961 - Jesus Christ of Nazareth Touching a Leper to Heal Him - Illustration Contributor: Carolangoni
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
The Gospel today is a wonderful example of God's great desire to reach out and touch us…… to include and heal us. There is sadly much illness and suffering in the world. We pray that those who are sick, will be healed of their illness and brought out of their suffering…..and in every case may the Lord certainly touch their lives with peace and strength and assure them that God is with them in this difficult journey….
++++++++++++
Today's Gospel makes it really clear that God loves us completely and desires that we be healed, freed from the burden of suffering and reunited with our community…… Jesus is the compassion of God…. And Jesus shows us the endless depths of that compassion and love for us…. God loves us so much that Jesus reaches out and touches us…
Because Jesus is God the son, he could simply have said to the leper, 'you are healed' and he would have been…. But the poor man was suffering illness,…. He was isolated from his community….. he was alone…. And Jesus reaches out and touches him to bring him back into the community… and heal his Spirit too……..
Jesus is not just in the midst of suffering… he is to be found abiding within the people who suffer, as well as in the people who reach out to help…… God, whose essential nature is loving and compassionate and deeply involved in our lives and who promises us much more than physical or emotional healing, but a cherished place in God's family forever.
Those he cured would eventually get sick again and eventually all reach the end of their lives... but he was offering them a reassurance of God's ultimate faithfulness to them - peace through the assurance of their membership in God's family that will stay with them in this life and the next
Jesus also shows us God's attitude towards our suffering when Jesus declares "of course I want to heal you!" God's compassion and love for others is the key to everything Jesus says and does. Jesus put people first and at the same time put his heavenly Father first, because the love of God, love of neighbour and love and care of oneself are different aspects of the same one teaching. St Paul in the second reading.. sums up what it's all about in our ministries and service… "Whatever you do at all, do it for the glory of God. ……try to be helpful to everyone at all times, not anxious for my own advantage but for the advantage of everybody else, so that they may be saved." And that is at the heart of what we do… everything for the honour and glory of God….
References: HOMILY — Fr Paul W. Kelly; Abbot's Homilies - Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert.. (2009) [online] Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert. Available at: https://christdesert.org/updates/abbots-homilies;
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Illustration ID: 2259208961 - Jesus Christ of Nazareth Touching a Leper to Heal Him - Illustration Contributor: Carolangoni
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 Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order - 17 February. In 1233, these prominent businessmen from Florence (Italy) withdrew to a life of solitude, prayer, and penance. They developed into an order of mendicant friars (Servants of Mary). They are remembered for their radical response to the demands of the gospel.
Buonfiglio dei Monaldi (Bonfilius), Giovanni di Buonagiunta (Bonajuncta), Amadeus of the Amidei (Bartolomeus), Ricovero dei Lippi-Ugguccioni (Hugh), Benedetto dell’ Antella (Manettus), Gherardino di Sostegno (Sostene), and Alessio de’ Falconieri (Alexius). These men founded the Servite Order in 1233 dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. One of their popular devotions is the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows:
1. THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON ―And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against, and a sword will pierce through your own soul also, that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34–35). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart upon hearing Simeon‘s prophecy, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to God‘s people Israel‖ (cf. Luke 2:32). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
2. THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT ―And an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “‘Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child to destroy him.‘ And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt have I called my Son‘” (Matthew 2:13–15). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart at the flight into Egypt by night, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, born ―to save his people from their sins‖ (Matthew 1:21). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
3. THE LOSS OF JESUS FOR THREE DAYS ―And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.‘ And he said to them, ‘How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father‘s house?‘” (Luke 2:48–49). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when together with Saint Joseph you searched for Jesus for three days, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―full of grace and truth‖ (John 1:14). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
4. HER MEETING JESUS, CARRYING HIS CROSS ―”He was oppressed and was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth. . . . Yet he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:7, 12). “Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you encountered your Jesus bearing His cross, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ―despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
5. HER STANDING BENEATH THE CROSS ON CALVARY ―”But standing by the Cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother‘s sister, Mary, the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold your son!‘ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!‘ And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home’ “(John 19:25-27). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you saw your Child‘s hands and feet nailed to the wood of the Cross and His side pierced by the soldier‘s lance, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus Crucified, bowed in death. One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
6. THE SACRED BODY OF JESUS, TAKEN DOWN FROM THE CROSS ―”What can I say for you, to what compare you, O daughter of Jerusalem? What can I liken to you, that I may comfort you, O virgin daughter of Sion? For vast as the sea is your ruin; who can restore you? Cry aloud to the Lord! O daughter of Sion! Let tears stream down like a torrent day and night! Give yourself no rest, your eyes no respite” (Lamentations 2:13, 18). 4 Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you beheld the lifeless Body of Jesus taken down from the cross, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, ― “beautiful above the sons of men” (Psalm 44:3). One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
7. HER WITNESSING THE BURIAL OF THE SACRED BODY OF HER SON ― “Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud, and laid it in a rock–hewn tomb, where no one had ever yet been laid. It was the Day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and saw the tomb, and how the body was laid; then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment” (Luke 23:52–55). Holy Mother of God, I remember the sorrow of your heart when you beheld the Body of Jesus wrapped in a linen shroud and laid in the tomb, and I desire to contemplate with you the Face of Jesus, covered with a veil in death. One Our Father and seven Hail Marys. “Holy Mother, this impart, Deeply print within my heart, All the wounds my Savior bore”.
In honor of the tears shed by Our Lady during these Seven Dolors: three Hail Marys. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, grant that I may weep for my sins.” Hail Mary. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, soften the hardened hearts of sinners.” Hail Mary. “O Mother of Sorrows, by the tears you shed, allow me to make reparation for my sins.” Hail Mary
(https://the-american-catholic.com/2020/02/17/saint-of-the-day-quote-142/)
POPE FRANCIS: Continuing the summary on Session One of the Synod on Synodality.
+
10. Consecrated Life and Lay Associations and Movements: A Charismatic Sign
Convergences
The Church has always benefitted from the gift of charisms, be it from the most extraordinary to the simplest. Through them, the Holy Spirit rejuvenates and renews the Church with joy and gratitude. The Holy People of God recognise in these charisms the providential help with which God sustains, directs and illuminates His mission.
The Church’s charismatic dimension is made manifest in the rich and varied forms of consecrated life. This testimony has contributed to renewing the life of the ecclesial community in every age and provides an antidote to the perennial temptation towards worldliness. The diverse families that compose religious life demonstrate the beauty of discipleship and holiness in Christ, whether in their distinctive forms of prayer, their service among the people, whether through forms of community life, the solitude of the contemplative life or at the frontier of new cultures. Those in consecrated life have often been the first to sense important historical changes and to heed the promptings of the Spirit. Today, too, the Church needs their prophetic voice and action. The Christian community also recognises and wishes to be attentive to the practices of synodal life and discernment that have been tried and tested in communities of consecrated life, maturing over the centuries. We know that we can learn from them wisdom in how to walk the synodal path. Many Congregations and Institutes practice conversation in the Spirit or similar forms of discernment in the conduct of provincial and general chapters, in order to renew structures, rethink lifestyles, and activate innovative forms of service and proximity to the poorest. In other cases, however, we find the persistence of an authoritarian style, which makes no room for dialogue.
With equal gratitude, the People of God recognize the seeds of renewal in communities with a long history that has blossomed into new ecclesial communities. Lay associations, ecclesial movements and new communities are a precious sign of the maturation of the co-responsibility of all the baptized. They hold particular value because of their experience in promoting communion among different vocations, the impetus with which they proclaim the Gospel, their proximity to those on the margins economically and socially and through their promotion of the common good. They are often models of synodal communion and of participation for mission.
Cases of abuse of various kinds experienced by those in religious life and members of lay associations, especially of women, signal a problem in the exercise of authority and demand decisive and appropriate interventions.
Matters for Consideration
The Church's magisterium has a well-developed body of teaching on the importance of both hierarchical and charismatic gifts in the life and mission of the Church. This calls for growth in ecclesial understanding and in theological reflection. It is therefore worth considering anew the ecclesiological significance and concrete pastoral implications of this teaching.
The variety of charismatic expressions in the Church underscores the People of God’s commitment to being a prophetic presence in proximity to the least of our sisters and brothers, and to providing contemporary culture with a deeper sense of the spiritual aspects of life. There is a need to develop a more profound understanding of how consecrated life, as well as lay associations, ecclesial movements, and new communities, place their charisms at the service of communion and mission in local churches, augmenting existing paths towards holiness with a presence that is prophetic.
Proposals
We believe the time has come for a revision of the 1978 document Mutuae Relationes, regarding the relationships between bishops and religious in the Church. We propose that this revision be completed in a synodal manner, consulting all involved.
To the same end, it is necessary to put in place, in a synodal spirit, means and instruments for promoting encounters and forms of collaboration between Episcopal Conferences and the Conferences of Superiors and Major Superiors of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of
Apostolic Life.
At the level of both individual local churches and groupings of Churches, the promotion of missionary synodality requires the establishment and configuration of councils and advisory bodies at which representatives of lay associations, ecclesial movements and new communities can meet in order to foster enduring relationships between their life and work and that of the local churches.
In theological formation at all levels, above all in the formation of ordained ministers, the prominence given to the Church’s charismatic dimension should be monitored and strengthened where necessary.
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 2181386209 - Important information - Editorial Use Only. -Photo Contributor: Noel Mallia
Source: https://www.synod.va/en/synodal-process/the-universal-phase/documents.htm
Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety
……………..See overleaf …..
St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
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.”
No comments:
Post a Comment