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“Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven..” (John 20:22-23)
Image Credit- Divine Mercy. Painting in Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Vilnius - 1934. By Eugeniusz Kazimirowski (1873–1939).
This Sunday - 7th April - (The Second Sunday of Easter) - is Divine Mercy Sunday- A special program - Sacred Heart Church - Adoration and Prayer and Benediction, followed by an opportunity for the First Rite of Reconciliation. 2.15 pm- 3.30 pm - Sacred Heart Church 7/4/24 - All Welcome
PASTOR’S POST
Happy Easter Season!
And with this Second Sunday of Easter, the Risen Lord appears and his first words to them, in both consecutive appearances, is “Peace be with You.” The Risen Lord brings the gift of peace and reconciliation to all who will accept it. The beauty of this peace, compassion, love and mercy is emphasised by the fact that after Jesus rose from the dead, and despite how unspeakably he was treated in his passion and death, he comes not with revenge and recrimination or settling of scores, but with love and mercy. This is a profound lesson for us to contemplate deeply in these weeks of Easter Joy.
Here are some quotes that might also inspire us in this season:
“By his miraculous entry through closed doors Christ proved to his disciples that by nature he was God and also that he was still also their former companion and their teacher.” —Saint Cyril of Alexandria (d. 444)
Acts 2:42-47 The first generation of the church was so great that people gave their money away to get in.
Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24 Everlasting love is the church's cornerstone.
1 Peter 1:3-9 Heaven is the best and most reliable of all “banks, and we so very well to entrust all our true valuables here.
John 20:19-31 Thomas mistakenly thinks that having friends who have seen the Lord isn't as convincing as seeing him yourself. He Realises the error of his ways with a gentle nudge from Our Risen Lord.
“I have . . . learned as a member of the Christian community what is the nature of God’s mercy, which does not leave me to overcome my sin by my own effort.” –Abp. Rowan Williams
Fr Paul
THIS SUNDAY, 7th April - (The Second Sunday of Easter) - is DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY- SPECIAL PROGRAM - Adoration and Prayer and benediction, followed by an opportunity for the First Rite of Reconciliation. 2.15 pm- 3.30 pm - Sacred Heart Church 7/4/24 - All Welcome
DIVINE MERCY
Divine Mercy Sunday is an opportunity for a plenary indulgence. The usual conditions are as follows:
sacramental confession [according to previously issued norms, within about 20 days before or after] -
Eucharistic communion [according to previously issued norms, preferably on the day, or the days before or after]
prayer for the intentions of Supreme Pontiff [certain prayers are not specified]
The specific conditions for this indulgence on Divine Mercy Sunday are:
in any church or chapel, in a spirit that is completely detached from the affection for a sin, even a venial sin, take part in the prayers and devotions held in honour of Divine Mercy
or, in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament exposed or reserved in the tabernacle, recite the Our Father and the Creed, adding a devout prayer to the merciful Lord Jesus (e.g. Merciful Jesus, I trust in you!”)
PROJECT COMPASSION FOR LENT -
To tune in to The Weekend Mass (the sound podcast), please regularly visit the link below to listen to the Mass (including the sermon) 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.
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
Thank you and Welcome to the Elect and Candidates who completed the journey of enquiry and faith this Easter 2024.
Kelly Friend, Cory Schumacher, Willem Peters, Satoshi Tetsuo, were Baptised, Confirmed and received First Holy Communion.
Wendy Tetsuo was received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church through Confirmation and First Holy Communion, and
Diana Vargas and Julian Rivers were Confirmed.
We invite all Parishioners to pray for them this Easter as they come to know Jesus more deeply and join us each week to celebrate the Mass in full Communion.
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.
On Monday, 26th February, the Sacramental Team emailed all families with children enrolled in Preparation for First Holy Communion 2024. If you have not received your email, please email Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au.
To begin or continue the faith journey with your child, please use the information in the table below.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
WELCOME TO OUR NEW CAFE CONVENOR
Our new convenor will be Chris Wilson. We welcome Chris and look forward to his hospitality in the cafe. God bless.
“TAP `N” GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, tap again (when it has reset) for another $10, and so on.
A Special note of thanks from Joan Miau.
Thank you to all the loving parishioners of their prayers and concern for me. Their love and care deeply touch me. To you, my most heartfelt thanks for your prayers.
Sincerely in the Lord, Joan Miau.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: (Alphabetical)
Phil Bawden, Nellie Bellinger, Braganza Family, Kevin Brennan, Tim Brown, Margaret Buckingham, Camara Family, Diana Castro, Cecily Cellinan, King Charles III, Nadia Che, Doug Chester, Jo Clark, Leslie Clarke, Tina Conidi, Margaret & George Cook, Alfonso Covino, Shirley Croft, Geraldine Daniels, Nia Falekakala, John Fisher, Rosie May Fisher, Sally Gage, Lorraine Gallagher, Rachel Gooden, Fred Grioli, Jacob Haddad, Jenny Haines, Dion Herft, Lena Hiscock, Louise Holmes, Kim Ingram, Anna Janiek, Brian Johnson, 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, Sarina Losurdo, John Nathaniel Maher, Maria Manuela, Andrew McPherson, Phil McWilliam, Fabiola Menzs, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Hugh Morand, Michael & Lesley Murtagh, Joanna Muthu, Lynn Nunan, Denis Mullins, Stephen O’Brien, Peter O’Brien, Natalie O’Reilly, Letty O’Sullivan, Joanne Parkes, Kay Pitman, Rachel Raines, Gus Reeves, Patricia Roberts, Rogelio Rodriguez, Bob Rogers, Felipe S Cataquiz (Senior), Thor Skjaerbaek, Kathy Stevens, Brenda Stewart, Jim Stewart, Rose Stewart, Betty Taylor, John Thomas, Baby Samuel Timothy, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Rick Murphy (USA), Karen Vestergard, Billy Webb, Lois Wood.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Juliana Ooi, Alan Taylor, John O’Hanlon, Alicia Celayh Jaureui, Phyllis Byrne, John Anthony Osbourne, Frank Alaba,Thelma & Leo Lampago, Nola and John McDermott, Lionel Murphy, Rose Mary Booth-Crane, Noel Payne OAM, Graham William Gibbons, Teresa Teo, Laura (“Lara”) Aprile, Michael Francis Dooley, Louise Antoinette Levi, Erzsebet Rigo, Minnie Ware.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Fr Francis Arthurs, Earl Briertey, Kaye Diane Blake, Jaiden Glen Brooks, Fr Francis Costello, A/Bp James Duhig, Fr Graham Elliott, Tibor Endrody, Vera Endrody, Raymond Alexander (Ray) Gardiner, Antony Di Giorgio, Douglas Anthony Glenn, Ray Hutchinson, Claire Irene Keefe, Gregory Kelly, Brian Raymond Lloyd, Errol John Maguire, John Richard Morgan, Fr James Murphy, Betty O’Connell, Susan Ruth O'Gorman, Annunziata Posa, Thomas (Tommy) Raudonikis, John (Jakes) Rennie, Mendoza, Nympha Reponia, Noelene Sisam, Norma Weise, Judith Wisemantel, Helen Wood.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Paul Avery, Fr Peter Bacinskas, Fr Michael Barry, Lynn Maree Blond, Cynthia Maud Brennan, Annette Bryant, Jocelyn Cassels, Therese Mary Clift, Fr Patrick Costello, Fr William Daley, Betty Lorraine Egan, David Anthony Evans, Mons Henry FitzGerald, Justin Paul Fitzgerald, Fr Jim Hynes, Darko Janzekovic, Pope Saint (II) John-Paul, Fay Margaret Frances Lincoln, Beau Abraham Massey, Anthony Robert Meehan, Fr Gerard Nichol, Wayne Parsons, Olimpia Percuoco, Fr James Slyney, Graham Paul Whitehead Smith, Ramon (Baby) Solatan, Fr (SVD) Romo Servatius Subhaga, Cecilia Teresa White, Miriam Zarb.
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
MARKETS ON FAIRWAY (THE MARKETS ON FAIRWAY ARE SUSPENDED FOR THE NEXT FEW MONTHS DUE TO WORK ON THE ATRIUM SITE)
From Grace R. grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Divine Mercy statues in stock at both Sacred Heart and St Vincent’s churches
SURFERS PARADISE St VINCENT de PAUL CONFERENCE - Invitation
Our conference meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 pm in the hospitality centre at Sacred Heart Church. Our members/Vincentians assist companions who have rung our call centre for assistance with food, clothing, rent, etc. We are currently experiencing an increase in calls due to rent increases, the cost of food, risk of homelessness. If you are interested in becoming a member, please call Wendy Webb on 0412 237 832 or email: wendy.webb@svdpqld.org.au
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at 8:15 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament First Friday, 5th April 2024, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are 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 Saturday 6th April 2024. Followed by adoration and Benediction.
MARIAN VALLEY - DIVINE MERCY
Please join us at the Marian Valley Church for the Divine Mercy Sunday on 07.04.2024 and on 13.04.2024, Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will pick up Sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare is $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with a contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon at 0404 843 260, Madeleine at 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 am to 12 noon. 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 several weeks are
08/04/2024 Rachael & Kermal Cortino Broadbeach
15/04/2024 Helen & Theo Skjaerback Merrimac
22/04/2024 Helen & Theo Skjaerback Merrimac
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 resumed Thursday (4th April) 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
The meditation group meets in the Morris prayer room on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It 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.
Archdiocesan Centre for Catholic Formation - Module Three: Being Sacramental
The Archdiocesan Centre for Catholic Formation invites people to participate in the third unit offering.
This module, Being Sacramental, will explore with participants what living in a sacramental world means. It will address the broader notion of sacramentality, the importance of signs and symbols in the liturgy and the character of the Church's seven sacraments. The module will also focus on the participant's approach to the sacraments, recognising that our relationship with God fundamentally influences how we experience the sacraments. Participants will develop their ability to listen to the voice of God in and through the sacraments, seeing more clearly the grace received in each rite and moving closer to full, active, and conscious participation in the liturgy.
I am asking Parish Priests and Chaplains to promote this formation opportunity in their parish or community and personally to invite people to register. Enclosed are several brochures you might provide to those you invite to attend. More information can be found at www.catholicformation.au.
(Brochure can be accessed here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XQ21axAypwcmomoZJuGlSX9wAPtkm12l/view?usp=sharing).
The module will run for ten consecutive Mondays, commencing on Monday, 15 April, at Holy Spirit Seminary, and the chief presenter will be Deacon Peter Pellicaan.
For those who live beyond the Brisbane region, there is an option to register as a regional hub where you can gather locally and participate via an online link. If you are interested in hosting a regional hub, contact Evangelisation Brisbane.
May this offering lead to a more profound knowledge and love of the sacraments in the minds and hearts of our people.
As always in the Lord,
+ The Most Reverend Mark Coleridge
Archbishop of Brisbane
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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
Prayer for the Year of Prayer:
(offered by Archbishop Mark)
You speak, Lord God, even in silence, and we listen with ears of the heart. We listen, and our eyes are opened to see all things as they are.
We see with the eyes of Jesus and our mouths are opened to speak of our joy and our sorrow, to sing your praise and seek your help.
This is the grace of prayer you give that opens heaven to earth, heart speaking to heart.
Give us that grace in this Year of Prayer, teach us to pray anew, and lead us deep into the heart of Jesus, who is our prayer forever and ever. Amen.
+Mark Coleridge
Archbishop of Brisbane
https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/year-of-prayer/
A VOCATION VIEW:
Easter: resurrection and new life; to be begotten by God. A new life is achieved from a conquered tomb. Nothing more secure, nothing more lasting. “As the father sent me, so I am sending you...”.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own...” - Acts 4:32
All that we are and all that we have is a gift from God! Think of your family, friends, life, talents and money – these are all gifts from God! We aren’t really owners of anything; we are merely “stewards” of the gifts God has blessed us with. We are called to be grateful and generous with all of our gifts for the benefit of others.
The vision of Stewardship applies to every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous, and accountable for what they have been given.
Take Five For Faith -
Annunciation \ə-ˌnen-sē-ā-shən\
From Latin, “to bring news,” the angelic proclamation to Mary of Nazareth that she would be the mother of Jesus. Mary's submission to this divine plan is simply given: "Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). Her “yes” is often referred to as Mary’s fiat (Latin for “let it be done”).
CONTEXT
The mystery of the Annunciation reveals the depth of God's love for us and his desire to be in relationship with us. —Henri Nouwen
The Annunciation is the revelation of the mystery of the Incarnation at the very beginning of its fulfilment. —Pope Saint John Paul II, Redemptoris Mater
The importance of the Annunciation is underscored by the fact that this is the first mystery of the Rosary and is celebrated by the Angelus as well. —David Bryan
WHY IT MATTERS
Unlike many saving acts that are unilaterally achieved by the divine will, in the Annunciation a woman is invited to participate in the saving event that has consequences for all people and all time. Mary’s yes is universal and limitless. At the Annunciation, Mary perfectly consents to God’s will, bears the Son, and is filled with the Spirit, which, as theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar notes, is wholly trinitarian.
From Pope Paul VI’s Marialis Cultus (“Devotion to Mary”): [The Annunciation observance] was and is a joint one of Christ and of the Blessed Virgin: of the Word, who becomes Son of Mary, and of the Virgin, who becomes Mother of God.
RELATED WORDS
Hyperdulia | Assumption | Immaculate Conception
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QUESTION OF THE WEEK
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What do I need to know about Mary?
There is the biblical Mary of Nazareth, who fulfils Isaiah’s Emmanuel prophecy by giving birth to a child who is “God with us.” Her Magnificat canticle foreshadows Jesus’ proclamation that the mighty will be brought down while the poor are lifted up. Mary plays other noteworthy roles: advocating for a miracle at Cana, being present at the cross, and participating in the Spirit’s reception at Pentecost. Finally, as Mary is the first disciple of her son, she is the ideal model for all of us.
The church teaches four doctrines about Mary. Two declarations declare her a virgin as well as the Mother of God. Two later doctrines teach that Mary was conceived immaculately (sinless) and that, at the point of death, was assumed body and soul to heaven.
Devotionally, Mary plays a large role in popular piety. Her icon has been venerated since the early centuries in the East. Through the Rosary, litanies, and pilgrimage, people of many lands feel a special closeness to the mother of Jesus, who is mother to all.
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask: http://tinyurl.com/QCA-about-Mary
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REFLECTION OF THE WEEK
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SOLEMNITY OF THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD (APRIL 8)
The three best words
Mary is the mother of the church and the model of all Christians. At the message of an angel, she believed beyond all reason and offered her life in service of God’s plan. Her response, “Let it be,” is the answer of every disciple who trusts God’s word to make all things new. In the season of Lent, God invites us to believe that we, too, are called to that service.
Readings: Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10; Hebrews 10:4-10; Luke 1:26-38 (545: “May it be done to me according to your word.”
FAITH IN ACTION
Though sinners, we must live in the hope of God’s forgiveness and trust that God will work through us to fulfil an eternal plan to save the world.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL - Doubt no longer, but believe!
Image: Rodney Anthony. Gold Coast. 2024.
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday, where we recall the absolute mercy and love that Jesus has for all humanity.
Today, we know that Our Lord is certainly worth trusting, and all His promises are true. We can thank Thomas for Jesus confirming that for all future generations…. including us here and now….
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This weekend is Divine Mercy Sunday when we recall Jesus's absolute mercy and love for all humanity.
The world desperately needs to deepen our understanding and experience of the depth and breadth of God’s divine mercy and love for us and all the world….. It is at the heart of God’s nature.. and at the heart of God’s relationship with us, his beloved people- his sons and daughters.
We see Our Lord’s mercy and love in the gospel this weekend. Thomas doubted, but Our Lord did not punish him for his lack of faith. Instead, he sees deep into Thomas’ heart and the pain, loss, and crushed hopes that caused Thomas to ‘not dare to believe’ that the Lord could be risen, as much as he wanted this to be so. Jesus meets him where he is … and leads him to see and believe… And this compassion, love and mercy produce such astounding fruits. Thomas, who so recently could not accept this fantastic news, is now the first to declare the complete truth of Christ’s identity. He is our Lord.. and our God!!
The Risen Lord twice says the words “peace be with you.” Jesus is offering us true PEACE…. and it is something we desire very deeply….. (The world is crying out for deep and abiding peace).
Jesus appears to his disciples to reassure them of the reality of the forgiveness he has won for us by his death and resurrection…..
We can truly be at peace and trust in Jesus’ promise that he desires to free us from our burdens and forgive us our sins….. Our lord of astounding mercy does not want us to continue to be bowed down and burdened by our sins and past mistakes…… God does not want us stuck in our mistakes; we would surely be forever without his gracious compassion.
His is a message of enormous hope….
He implores us…. doubt no longer… but believe. Trust in my love…. trust in my forgiveness….., and believe that I do offer you the means to real and lasting peace ….
Jesus gently rebukes and invites us too!… Do you doubt in my mercy? Do you dare to think yourself unforgivable and unforgiven when I have declared you absolved? Happy indeed are those who believe!
Also, the gospel today ends with the writer of John’s gospel saying…. there are more things that happened to Jesus…. but they are not all written here…..
We (these many, many years after Jesus walked the earth) are witnesses to what Jesus continues to do in our world even today….. We are called to be ministers of mercy, Instruments of Christ’s peace….agents of God’s reconciliation, ministers of grace…. and ambassadors of Christ’s love…..
The importance of the community cannot be understated either…… in the first reading, we hear of an ideal community…. they pray together… they learn together… they share their resources to help and support each other….especially those in need. Our faith community exists so that we might assist, build up and strengthen each other…. especially our brothers and sisters who are struggling…… Jesus calls us a community of disciples looking outward towards the world and ready to make a practical difference for good….
Our faith tradition tells us that to understand and believe in Christ, we must read and meditate on the Scriptures. We must also come to know other believers and listen to each other’s experiences with our hearts and minds. Christianity is a religion that preaches Jesus crucified and risen and is active in the community of those who believe in Him.
Today, let us ask Saint Thomas to intercede for us so that we can believe more deeply in the great mystery of salvation. Let us be patient with our doubts and keep looking for the truth of Christ's presence amid our everyday events and people.
Most of all, let us rejoice in the Lord who loves us, forgives us of our sins, and invites us deeper into these mysteries.
May we continue to be built up by the risen Christ to be disciples who rejoice in being a community for the good of each other and the common good of all…… ministers of Jesus’ graciousness and care…..Jesus brings us peace and (having given us the gift of his peace) immediately commissions us to go out and put his message into action through acts of charity, love, and support for everyone we meet….
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References:
Fr Paul Kelly
Image Credit: Rodney Anthony. Gold Coast. 2024.
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 following Feast days are not celebrated on these dates as the Easter Octave overrides them. Nevertheless, their words inspire us)
The Annunciation of the Lord - Solemnity
This feast originated in the East during the sixth century and gained universal observance in the West during the eighth century. It is a feast of the Lord, commemorating the announcement to the Virgin Mary of the Word made flesh, Mary's acceptance of God's will, and Christ's conception nine months before Christmas. Its occurrence close to Easter links the incarnation with the whole mystery of human redemption in Christ.St Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr - 11 April Memorial
Born in Szczepanow (Poland) about 1030, he died on this day in 1079 at Cracow, murdered on the orders of the king for his outspoken condemnation of corruption. He had become bishop of Cracow in 1072. He is remembered for his reforms, preaching, and pastoral concern.Patron Saint of Poland, soldiers in battle, moral order.
Canonised by Pope Innocent IV on September 17, 1253, in Assisi, Italy
Liturgical Color: Red
In 966, Mieszko I, duke and ruler of Poland, and many others in his ruling court converted to Catholicism. Their conversion marked the beginning of what is often referred to as “The Baptism of Poland.” In the years that followed, many more conversions took place throughout the land, primarily through the efforts of missionary bishop Saint Adalbert. Just over a century later, another significant event took place in Poland. The Archbishop of Krakow, Stanislaus of Szczepanów, was brutally martyred by King Bolesław II. In 1979, Pope Saint John Paul II, the former Archbishop of Krakow himself, referred to Saint Stanislaus’ martyrdom analogously as “Poland’s Confirmation” (see above).
Very little is known for certain about Saint Stanislaus since his first biography was not written until more than a century after his death. Nonetheless, his influence on Poland has been significant. He is believed to have been born and raised in southern Poland, in the village of Szczepanów. His town and the surrounding area stood out from the rest of Poland for their unique culture, architecture, traditional costumes, dances, food, and dialect. The capital and largest city of the territory was Krakow. His parents were prominent and wealthy, as well as devout and charitable. For most of their marriage, they were without children. When his mother conceived Stanislaus later in their lives, his parents saw their child as a gift from Heaven.
As a youth, Stanislaus became very devout, charitable toward the poor, fervent in mortifications, and dedicated to growth in virtue. As a young man, it is believed that he was sent to study in the then-capital of Poland, Gniezno, and later completed his theological studies in Paris. After his parents died, Stanislaus received a huge inheritance, which he immediately gave to the poor. He was ordained to the priesthood by the Bishop of Krakow and appointed canon at the cathedral. He became a well-respected preacher, was later appointed as a pastor, and eventually became the Vicar General of Krakow, a position of great importance in the local church. When the Bishop of Krakow died, popular acclaim chose Stanislaus as his successor. At first, he refused the position, but on the explicit order of the pope, he accepted and was ordained a bishop around the age of forty-two.
As a bishop, Stanislaus vigorously preached against immoralities at all social levels. He even confronted the king. When he was met with opposition, he remained steadfast in his convictions. It is believed that to help solve various ecclesiastical matters, he brought papal legates to Poland, reestablished the Diocese of Gniezno as an archdiocese, and worked with the king to found new monasteries to help with the ongoing efforts of evangelisation.
At that time, Bolesław II was King of Poland. Legend has it that Bishop Stanislaus had purchased land for the church from Piotr. After Piotr’s death, however, his three sons disputed the sale and took the matter to the king. The king, agitated with Bishop Stanislaus for condemning his immoralities, sided with the sons and ordered the bishop to return the property. Bishop Stanislaus is said to have asked for three days to produce Piotr as his witness of the sale. The king and his court laughed and gave him his three days. After three days of prayer and fasting, Bishop Stanislaus led a procession to the cemetery where Piotr’s body was exhumed, and the bishop ordered him to rise, which he did. The group then proceeded to the king and Piotr testified that he did indeed sell the property, scolding his sons before returning to his grave.
Though King Bolesław enjoyed many honours as a successful military leader, he also continued to manifestly indulge in immoralities, such as lust and heavy-handed cruelty to anyone who opposed him. Tensions continued to grow between the bishop and the king. Eventually, after the king ignored the bishop’s warnings, Bishop Stanislaus excommunicated Bolesław. Outraged, Bolesław held a mock trial and found the bishop guilty of treason, punishable by death. When Bolesław’s soldiers refused to carry out the order, Bolesław himself slew the bishop with his sword while the bishop was celebrating Mass. The legend continues that after Stanislaus’ death, the soldiers were ordered to dismember the bishop’s body and scatter the pieces on the land to be devoured by wild beasts. Miraculously, eagles guarded the fragments until the cathedral's canons could gather and bury them properly. Outrage against Bolesław’s actions quickly reached a fever pitch in the kingdom, and the king had to flee to Hungary, where he died an unhappy death.
Saint Stanislaus has become a legend and inspiration for Poland for many centuries. Like many kingdoms throughout the ages, Poland has gone through times of division, later to be reunited once again. Through it all, Saint Stanislaus has been a guiding light to Poles and a source of hope when it was most needed. There is little doubt that his martyrdom confirmed Poland as a Christian country, strengthening its people throughout the years to become true witnesses to Christ no matter the cost.
Ponder your own call to lay down your life for the faith courageously. When fear keeps you from fidelity, pray and seek to imitate Saint Stanislaus. Allow his prayers and witness to confirm you more firmly in the faith so that you will be a witness to those who need it the most.
St Martin I, Pope and Martyr - 13 April - Optional Memorial
Born at Todi (Italy). Died in exile at Chersonesus (Crimea) on this day in about 655. A deacon in Rome, he was sent as legate to Constantinople. After being elected pope in 649, he held a council at the Lateran, which condemned the error that Christ did not have a human will. This and the council's censure of two related imperial edicts led to his imprisonment and exile. Remembered for his many hardships and as the last pope to suffer martyrdom.If anyone in word and mind does not properly and truly confess according to the holy Fathers, even to the last portion handed down and preached in the holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church of God...let him be anathema.
If anyone does not, in accord with the Holy Fathers acknowledge the holy and ever-virgin and immaculate Mary was really and truly the Mother of God, since she, in the fullness of time, and without seed, conceived by the Holy Spirit, God in the Word Himself, who before all time was born of God the Father, and without loss of integrity brought Him forth, and after His birth preserved her virginity inviolately, let him be condemned.
(quotes from various sources. Internet and Liturgy Brisbane)
POPE FRANCIS: Continuation of the Synod Summary -
11. Mission in the Digital Environment
Convergences
a) Digital culture represents a fundamental change in how we conceive of reality and consequently relate to ourselves, one another, our surroundings, and even God. The digital environment changes our learning processes and perception of time, space, our bodies, interpersonal relationships and, indeed, much of our way of thinking. The dualism between real and virtual does not adequately describe the reality and experience of people, especially the youngest, the so-called "digital natives."
b) Digital culture, then, is not so much a distinct area of mission as a crucial dimension of the Church's witness in contemporary culture. This is why it holds special significance in a synodal Church.
c) Missionaries have always gone with Christ to new frontiers while the Holy Spirit pushed and preceded them. We must reach today's culture in all spaces where people seek meaning and love, including the spaces they enter through their cell phones and tablets.
d) We must first understand it in order to evangelise digital culture. Young people, and among them, seminarians, young priests, and young consecrated men and women, who often have profound and direct experience of it, are best suited to carry out the Church's mission in the digital environment, as well as to accompany the rest of the community, including pastors, in becoming more familiar with its dynamics.
e) Within the synodal process, the initiatives of the “Digital Synod” (“The Church Listens to You” Project) show the potential of the digital environment approached in a missionary key, the creativity and generosity of those who engage in it, and the importance of providing them with training, accompaniment and opportunities for peer-to-peer discussion and collaboration.
Matters for Consideration
f) The Internet is increasingly present in the lives of children and families. While it has great potential to improve people's lives, it can also cause harm and injury, such as through intimidation, disinformation, sexual exploitation, and addiction. There is an urgent need to consider how the Christian community can support families in ensuring that the online space is safe and spiritually life-giving.
g) There are many valuable and useful Church-related online initiatives that provide excellent catechesis and faith formation. Unfortunately, there are also sites where faith-related issues are addressed in a superficial, polarised and even hate-filled manner. As a Church and as individual digital missionaries, we have a duty to ask ourselves how we can ensure that our online presence constitutes an experience of growth for those with whom we communicate.
h) Online apostolic initiatives have a reach and scope that extends beyond traditionally understood territorial boundaries. This raises important questions about how they can be regulated and which ecclesiastical authority should be responsible for supervision.
i) We must also consider the implications of the new digital missionary frontier for the renewal of existing parish and diocesan structures. In an increasingly digital world, how do we avoid being trapped within a mindset that seeks only to conserve what we are already doing and instead unleash new energies for new forms of mission?
j) The COVID-19 pandemic stimulated a range of creative online pastoral initiatives that reduced the effects of the experience of isolation and loneliness experienced particularly by elderly and vulnerable community members. Catholic educational institutions also used online platforms effectively to continue offering formation and catechesis during lockdowns. We need to assess what this experience has taught us and what the lasting benefits might be for the Church's mission in the digital environment.
k) While young people do seek beauty, many young people have abandoned the physical spaces of the Church into which we continue to try to invite them, favouring online spaces instead. This has implications for how we try to engage them and seek to offer them formation and catechesis. This is something to consider from a pastoral perspective.
Proposals
l) We need to provide opportunities for recognising, forming, and accompanying those already working as digital missionaries while also facilitating networking amongst them.
m) It is important to create collaborative networks of influencers that include people of other religions or, indeed, who may profess no faith, but who wish to collaborate on common causes to promote human dignity, justice, and care for our common home.
[Summary of the Synod Source: https://www.synod.va/en/synodal-process/the-universal-phase/documents.htm]
RELIGIOUS MUSIC - LOCAL ARTIST- MARGARET HATZIS
The music album - “A Girl of Love” was written for children, and I am proud to announce its release on all streaming platforms. It features students from Star of the Sea singing the school song Margaret, retired Assistant Principal for Religious Education at St Vincent's, wrote for them along with a few others. We thought you might like to hear the finished product. They were amazing! https://music.youtube.com/channel/UClFTmjA4_Bmf44XCj8a7oQw
Here are two of Margaret’s Lyric videos of songs on the album found on her YouTube channel @WMGMusic24. - One for Holy Week- Mary's Journey to the Cross - I Will Walk With You
And another for St Patrick's Day - Trinity Song
NEW ARTWORK DONATED
Located at the back of the Sacrament Chapel.
Title: Wilpena Mass, the Flinders Ranges, South Australia, 2007.
Brian Mooney was an accomplished Irish-Australian artist and musician with over 60 years of experience in the fine arts. He spoke of the painting:
"On Easter Sunday, I was making my way through Wilpena and noticed a congregation of people in a clearing. Upon closer inspection, I stumbled across a late afternoon Easter mass. The priest wore clean white vestments and clothes and dusty, worn boots. A kangaroo and its Joey, ‘local’ to the area, also sat curiously watching the mass. The whole spectacle seemed quite surreal."
The painting was done in Egg Tempera, a long-lasting medium common in the classical in the European Medieval and Early Renaissance periods up to 1500. For example, most surviving panel paintings attributed to Michelangelo are done in egg tempera.
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 yearly epiphany. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
This means 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 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.”
Thank you Fr Paul. You have helped me feel connected during my prolonged absence.
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