PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said.” (Mark 10: 21)
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/J9ik3so1Ql6Itojn2S60?ru=Paul-Evangelion
HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY TO FATHER BERNIE GALLAGHER -
MANY HAPPY RETURNS
PASTOR’S POST -
The beautiful statue of Our Lady in St Vincent’s Church has been restored thanks to the art and care of parishioner Rodney Antony. Thanks for this beautiful work.
Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us.
NEXT WEEKEND IN THE PARISH IS THE CATHOLIC MISSION APPEAL
we have two Mission Ambassador speakers on the weekend of 19 / 20 October 2024, World Mission Sunday. Please support this annual appeal with your prayers and with any financial support you can give. God bless.
Please find below the names of the speakers and the mass times they will be covering.
Both Mark Beiers and Marie-Elizabeth Williams are parishioners from your parish and have spoken for us before.
In Mongolia, Chuluunbaatar suffered a life-altering injury while trying to rescue a submerged vehicle, leaving him unable to work and reliant on scarce support services for basic needs. Without shelter and food, Chuluunbaatar faces the real risk of freezing to death. Resources are limited, but the Church in Mongolia is working hard to provide essential services to people in need.
This World Mission Month, we invite you to extend your generosity to help enhance these vital services.
Your support can make a significant difference to the lives of many, offering hope and tangible assistance to individuals like Chuluunbaatar.
To donate online, pls click here – catholicmission.org.au/mongolia
To Clap or Not to Clap in Worship and Liturgy.
(The position of Applause in Mass).
This is actually a topic we have raised a few times over the last few years, including a front-page editorial in the newsletter back in 2021. In the interval between those articles, the position has only been more strongly confirmed. I am quite sure that the following reflection is the position of the Church on applause.
The position on applause in Mass and other liturgies is not merely my personal opinion, but simply sharing the solid liturgical principles behind the position. I share a reflection on this topic to explain the Catholic understanding of worship.
If we look to the bible for answers we must approach the texts of Holy Scripture carefully, and with great reverence, carefully attending to the context of each verse in relation to the surrounding passages, and also the whole book from which those passages originate. For example, a verse of a psalm should be studied in terms of the whole psalm and also in the context of all of the psalms, as well as the whole bible.
The advice we gave that applause is not normally appropriate in worship is actually entirely consistent with the bible, as shown by the following paragraph:....
A Psalm says: “All you peoples, clap your hands; shout to God with joyful cries.”— (Psalm 41:7)
Note that this psalm verse indicates that the claps and shouts are directed entirely “to God" - and specifically focused on the participation of people in the midst of worshipping and praising God. In this psalm, clapping is done along with the rhythm of the music, and the song, and is about giving full voice to praising God as we sing and pray. This is entirely different from applause at the end of a hymn, reading, homily or reflection, or at the end of the mass or a liturgy.
Here’s where a distinction must be made between “clapping” and “applauding.”
It is proper (if it is the custom of the assembly) to clap along to the music – eg- during the Entrance/Recessional chant—This is a common occurrence in some parishes and cultures around the world and at Charismatic Masses.
In the scriptural passage above, the clapping is directed to God. This type of clapping is an expression of worship and done within the act of worship itself, and the hands are simply being used as percussion instruments. (Clapping along to a hymn is a synchronised use of the hands as a musical instrument, with the hands keeping to the rhythm and meter of the music and words of the hymn). This is very different from the modern practice of applauding at the end of a performance to show approval and appreciation to musicians or speakers.
In the Vatican II documents it says that “in the Latin Church the pipe organ is to be held in high esteem…But other instruments also may be admitted for use in divine worship…only on condition that the instruments are suitable, or can be made suitable, for sacred use, accord with the dignity of the temple, and truly contribute to the edification of the faithful.”— [Sacrosanctum Concilium 120]
The intended purpose of clapping at this time, (within singing a hymn), is praising God, and that would be in line with Sacrosanctum Concilium. But does this provision include applauding the soloist who “knocked the Ave Maria out of the park,” or the celebrant who gave a rousing homily, or all the ministers who rehearsed tirelessly? The answer is no.
Mass is worship offered up to God. It is praise from us creatures to our Creator. Some describe it as a vertical movement—from us on earth towards heaven. The Mass is not entertainment for the assembly. When we applaud the soloist, choir or acolytes, the vertical movement is replaced with a horizontal one. The wrong axis is emphasized. Applause focuses attention on us rather than God.
Applauding is primarily an expression of approval - Applauding is a way of positively critiquing a performance. According to Wikipedia, clapping indicates “the average relative opinion of the entire group; the louder and longer the noise, the stronger the sign of approval.”
So what if the applause degraded into something else? What if it turned into cheering which then begets whistling and calling out. Aren’t these further possible developments along the same wide spectrum of possibilities. Wouldn’t these be things that some people might argue are called for if the assembly approved particularly strongly? But, no! (And this is not a mere hypothesis, i have been at liturgies where applause turned into “whooping” and whistling. It is an inevitable progression to this kind of thinking. And that is to be entirely discouraged for obvious reasons.
And what if people were in the habit of applauding people who minister in mass. What if applause as approval was not actually felt. What if the opposite were true? For example, if the assembly disapproved of the celebrant’s homily or of the soloists singing, or the musician’s playing. Could they boo? Hiss? How about heckling? In any case, I have actually been present at Masses where the “applause” at the end of Mass was notably quieter when a musician or singer did not seem to play or sing as well as usual. (Like everyone, a minister can be having a bad day, or a technical difficulty). This again confirms the suspicion that applause is directed at performers and the quality of the performance.
As we have said, the Mass is not a theatrical show and the ministers are not performers to be critiqued (favourably or unfavourably) by the assembly. What they do, whether considered superbly delivered or not, is intended to give worship to God. God loves and accepts the heartfelt ministry of all his sons and daughters, even if they played poorly or sang out of tune. This is not to say that we do not strive for excellence in our proclamation, or singing and other ministries. And we do very much appreciate the choir, soloist, acolytes, lectors, celebrant, etc. We most definitely do. The question is if the Mass is the right time to express that gratitude in terms of applause. The liturgical position is NO, and here are two examples from Popes writings which agree with this:
“It is not fitting to applaud the servant in the house of his Master.”— (Pope St. Pius X)
“Wherever applause breaks out in the liturgy because of some human achievement, it is a sure sign that the essence of liturgy has totally disappeared and been replaced by a kind of religious entertainment.”— (Pope Benedict XVI).
Quite a while back, in the weekly newsletter and in instructions to the ministers, I wrote an article about this to communicate the church's position on certain matters in the liturgy.
Applause after certain hymns or at the end of mass is a novel and recent innovation and not an integral part of the liturgy.
Applause at the end of a hymn during mass, and applause at the end of mass is applauding the song, the singers and musicians who directly preceded it. It is a practice primarily intended in giving feedback to the ministers and (although it is clearly well-meaning) it unintentionally but clearly shifts attention away from God and upon the ministers. It is a novel practice that has crept in from the established traditions of theatre and performance. It is very fitting for theatre, but does not belong properly to worship.
After I wrote the reflection on this in the past, most people understood and agreed with this teaching, but some spoke to me in support of applause. However, as they spoke it became very clear that the reasons they gave for clapping was indeed in encouragement of the musicians or ministers.
I said in reply to this, “but why can't you just go up to them after Mass and say, ‘thank you for your singing, it helped me pray.’” The reply was - “Oh but it is good to encourage them.”
I replied, "do you applaud after the readings as well? or after the psalm? or after the priest’s homily? or applaud the sacristans and coordinators, and piety stall people, or collectors, traffic directors and so on? (There are many people who are involved in the liturgy and they are not up the front or visible). And neither should we applaud them! Everyone is doing these ministries to give worship and praise entirely to God, and not for their own affirmation or recognition. Many ministers have also indicated that they do not invite or want applause, as that is definitely not what they are doing this ministry for. We cannot presume that this way of showing appreciation is welcome, even if well-meant.
I find it thought-provoking that even after specific and detailed explanation of the position on applause, and specific answers to the practical objections from those who disagree, there can still be a steadfast resistance to the clear explanation of the liturgy and its principles. This comes across as resistance to a quite clearly explained set of principles. We are not gathering in church to stick to stubbornly held novelties in the face of clear liturgical teaching.
Everything in liturgy is a loving act of giving to God. To God belongs all thanks and all praise. As a pastor, it is my duty to share these insights to keep us all focused on the primary direction and priorities of our discipleship and worship - which is service and praise of God.
The point is, by giving applause and recognition to someone when they are doing it only for the honour and glory of God, it gives them immediate earthly reward, and as the Lord says "they have had their reward," (Matthew 6:2). It would be a sign of great respect to allow God to thank his ministers in heaven, and reward them there, for their acts of faith and worship to their beloved God, friend and master.
I have also personally had a great devotion to the beautiful and challenging passage of Luke’s Gospel (17: 9-10). This text puts humility and service of our Lord and Master as the foundation for all that follows in our discipleship. We are not here for our own reward but for the building up of God’s Kingdom. In Luke 17 Jesus says - “Which of you whose servant comes in from ploughing or shepherding in the field will say to him, ‘Come at once and sit down to eat’? Instead, won’t he tell him, ‘Prepare my meal and dress yourself to serve me while I eat and drink; and afterward you may eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what he was told? So you also, when you have done everything commanded of you, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’”
This Gospel passage is an excellent antidote to modern concepts of consumerism that can even creep into worship and discipleship. It focuses on “what is in this for me,” and “what am I getting out of this” - rather than “what does Our Lord ask of us?” or “what can i give?”
A writer by the name of Fr. Vincent Serpa adds, “There are times when applause is called for, as in the ordination ceremony (where it is specifically written into the text of the rite), when the assembly are asked to give the response to the worthiness of the candidate for ordination.” (Or similarly at the welcome of Candidates and Catechumens, or Children for enrolment to the sacraments, or in presentation of these to the community).” In that moment, the focus is indeed in the candidate for the purposes of their induction. In that specific situation, it is a communal sign of welcome and affirmation and is specifically introduced within the liturgy, at the direction of the presider or a minister at the presiders request.
Whilst there is no doubt that people applaud to show appreciation, encouragement or welcome, it ends up taking the focus away from God, whom we are actually gathered to worship and thank. When spontaneous applause breaks out during mass or at the end of Mass, my strong, heartfelt reaction is, “oops, that’s a failure.” I think this, because liturgically applause often indicates that we have unwittingly stepped over that fine line between worship and entertainment. Despite some unconvining arguments to the contrary I stand firmly by my strong belief that applause usually means we didn’t quite get the balance right, and that what preceded was closer to the “performance” end of the spectrum than the “worship” end.
There are two distinct types of reading, singing and speaking. One is “performative,” in which the person performs, and the others watch. The other type is “Worship,” in which all members present, raise their hearts, minds and voices to praise and thank the Lord. It is absolutely vital that we recognise the difference and aim for Worship in liturgy and not performance or entertainment.
No doubt the applause is done in a well-meaning way, and is clearly meant to express appreciation. However, it’s more fitting to raise our thoughts and minds to God and thank Our Lord for the gift of music, and bless the Lord for His many gifts to us through those in our community. An “Amen” or an “Alleluia, Lord!” (but not in Lent), Or a “Bless you Lord,” would also express appreciation worship of God, more fittingly, as an expression to God of our appreciation of the work of his ministers. Since, all gifts and graces come from God, and flow in and through us as his living, cooperating instruments.
A quiet word of encouragement after mass is the most excellent and personal way of expressing appreciation. - “thank you, that was beautiful, that really helped me to pray and worship God,” - “thanks to the Lord, for the beautiful, uplifting ministry - it raised my eyes to God.”
Church commentator Fr. Vincent Serpa has written, “The choir is not singing as a matter of entertaining anybody. They’re singing to worship God. We don’t applaud prayer. We pray prayers.” He continues, “If we were someplace else it would be a different matter. But Liturgy is liturgy. It’s the worship of God, and it needs to be done in an appropriate way as the Church sees fit. It’s good that they appreciate the choir, but they can thank them outside. Applause is not appropriate at that time.”
Even in those rare occasions when applause might be appropriate, (at the specific direction of the presider), I still wonder whether it would be more fitting to instead call for a united “Amen,” or “We praise and bless you lord for these candidates.” Or “All praise to you, O Lord, forever and ever. Amen.”.
The best advice is, unless the Presider (or a minister at the request or the presider) specifically invites the assembly to do so, it is best to refrain from applause in liturgy.
References for further detail on this topic: https://www.churchpop.com/is-it-okay-to-applaud-at-mass-heres-what-popes-have-said-about-it/ and https://www.massexplained.com/flawed-applause/
Fr Paul
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FREE COPY OF LITURGY NEWS
The spring edition of Brisbane Archdiocesan Liturgical Magazine “Liturgy News” is now available. Please click the link below for interesting information and articles.
For a PDF copy of Liturgy News, please click here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VhDSyMjKFf3JbT8UDASdU3bEXYYhkzLa/view?usp=drive_link
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ELECTION QUEENSLAND - 2024 -
Queensland Catholic Bishops Election Statement
As our community approach an election, whether Federal, State or local, the Catholic Bishops of Queensland invite all to thoughtfully reflect on key issues through the lens of Catholic teachings. Grounded in gospel values, the bishops call for a society that prioritises the dignity of every person, the common good, and care for the vulnerable.
This is one of the ways we put our faith into action.
Below, you can find statements from current or past elections. Each statement highlights the Catholic perspective on the important issues voters should consider.
Current Election Statements
The Catholic Bishops of Queensland are urging those seeking election to resist populism and post-truth narratives, and for voters to use their votes for the common good.
Download the Queensland Catholic Bishops Election Statement.
Archbishop Mark Coleridge warns of the destabilising effect of rising polarisation and calls on Queenslanders to engage with key challenges, including healthcare, education, cost of living, housing, and more.
meet your candidate gatherings across the electorate -
https://meetyourcandidates.org.au
St Mary's Upper Coomera - Multicultural Mass and Festival
For more information - coomera@bne.catholic.net.au
THE NEW CHURCH CAFE HAS RE-OPENED
The Cafe outside the Sacred Heart Church has been a wonderful gathering place for parishioners and school parents and staff and the wider public. The feedback has been that the Cafe is a great idea but its location in the front of the church is not ideal. The Cafe has now re-opened at the old Atrium building. This will allow community building whilst also giving the church the space that it needs for its Masses, Weddings, Baptisms and solemn Funerals. Please support this wonderful continuation of the parish vision. Chris and his staff are delighted to welcome you.
THE SECOND SESSION OF THE ARCHDIOCESAN LOCAL SYNOD - IN BRISBANE.
The Very Reverend Morgan Batt (the Dean of South Coast Deanery here) and Robyn Hunt represent our deanery at the synod. The next session will be the second week of October. Please keep the Synod and its processes, led by the Holy Spirit, in your prayers.
You will be aware that the voting numbers do not always add up to the number of Synod participants in the room. Participants have the ability to refrain from declaring their vote if they want to. Each participant has the ability to ENDORSE or CHALLENGE the action. A Challenge doesn’t always mean that you are against the action, just that you want to have further discussion around the wording, or the actions that are flowing from the Plenary Council decrees. Even after further discussion you can see that there are still participants who are Challenging the outcome.
For your information a link to the Plenary Council Decrees that are being discussed and voted on is below:
THE BIBLE TIMELINE – THE STORY OF SALVATION
ADULT FAITH FORMATION BIBLE STUDY
From One Holy Couple (Creation) to One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church (Today)
WHEN: On the last Sunday of the Month – next Session No. 3 will be held on 27th October.
WHERE: in the Parish Hospitality Room - (next to Sacred Heart Church) 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters
Queensland 4226, on Sundays from 10 am – 12 pm.
There is no cost; however to participate, you will need to purchase The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation, Study Set, which can be obtained from Ascension Press or Garrett publishing. The Study Set will contain The Bible Timeline Study Book, Chart and Bookmark - https://ascensionpress.com/ https://garrattpublishing.com.au/
Around seven years ago, we looked at Unlocking the Mysteries of the Bible. This study program is the complete study version, an In-depth Exploration of Salvation History, which will require considerable pre-reading monthly of various sections of the Bible, and that is why we will do it monthly to ensure we allow ourselves sufficient time to give this Study our full participation. This way, we will get the most from the sessions, and once we see the big picture of the Bible, we will be able to understand Scripture in a whole new way. The Mass readings will make more sense. You will see how our beliefs as Catholics are rooted in Scripture, your prayers will come to life, and you will know how you are part of this remarkable story.
The Bible Timeline® study program takes you on a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Using a unique colour-coded chart, you will learn the Bible's significant people, places, and events and discover how they all come together to reveal the remarkable story of our Faith. Bookings can be made by ringing the Parish Office (new): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 1 pm Mon-Fri). We’re excited to be able to present this resource, so please join us.
SCAM ALERT!
Scam messages are doing the rounds again.If you receive a suspicious or confusing SMS message (and any other illegitimate SMS), or a suspicious email, we recommend forwarding it to 0429 999 888 (the Australian Government spam reporting line). Or if it is an email message of concern, please forward it to: report@submit.spam.acma.gov.au
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.
Catholic Actor Mark Wahlberg’s Sundays while he was in Australia
- Thanks for visiting the Gold Coast and bless your work. - “Stay Prayed up!”
Above - (From Fiji ^)
At Sacred Heart. Happy Sunday - Stay Prayed Up. Catholic and Actor Mark Wahlberg - God bless him for his inspiring witness to the Catholic/ Christian faith. “Stay prayed up!” #hallowapp #markwahlberg. https://www.instagram.com/markwahlberg/reels/
Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au.
Please use the information in the table below to begin or continue the faith journey with your child.
MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES
GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -
AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, tap and other higher denominations now available on the new devices.
Anointing Mass – Mass of Healing FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (February-November Inclusive)
10 am Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Final for the year. Tuesday the 5th of November (5/11/24) - Followed by morning tea. Please let others know who would love to come along.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 1/11/24, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am Saturday the 2/11/24. Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Please also pray for the following who are ill. (Alphabetical)
Mary Hirst, Lindsay Allan, Robert Andreas, Milroy Antony, Tricia Baumann, Nellie Bellinger, Graham Bousen, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Nadia Che, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Alfonso Covino, Shirley Croft, Christopher Eid, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Tommy Harris, Sr Elisabeth Keane, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Dannielle Therese Larney, Nathan Lepp, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Patrick O’Hagan, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Carmela Parente, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Bob Rogers, Betty Taylor, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Paul Trad, Billy Webb.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Brenda Stewart, Peter Kane, Vren Hunniford, Helen Nugent, Olympia Georgiou, Cristina Salinas, Ljubica (Lilian) Cvitkovic, Peter Thomas Bell, Caroline Moulden, Frank Anthony Armanasco, Ma. Cristina Cruzada Lenihan, Colleen Williams, Merle Maiden, Bill Brewer, Damian Mullins, John Brown, Terry Bourke, Sophie Wang, Chieko Kajiwara.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Jean Di Benedetto, Fr Thomas Brady, Raymond (Ray) Burton, Fr John Dwyer, Virginia Mary Fay, Eva "Midge" Gardner, Marie Elizabeth Giles, Marta Goran, Fr Patrick Grennan, Cecil John (Digger) Hogan, Marjorie Joan Howard, Fr John Humphries, Rodney Bertram Matthews, Fr James McDermott, Christine McQuee, Norm Modral, Rita Marianne Nelson, Sue-Anne O’Reilly, Maria Antionette Orlando, Betty Putre, Bessie Rice, Julie Ritchie, John Michael Rosenlund, Fr John Rosenskjar, Keiran John Ryan, (Pronounced Taff), Peter Lawrence Taffe, Ruben Ricardo Vico, Cecilia Louisa Vlemmix, Carmel Mary Wilkinson.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Duncan Anthony Dawson, Mons Jeremiah O'Leary, John Sudgen, Terry Maloney, Edmond Galea, Edwin Emile Ware, Nalin Sena, Alex Rentoul, Bernard (Bernie) Markijevic, Noel Francis (Frank) Evans, Marie Kjöller, Diane Margaret Tonkin, Eugene Donald Williamson, Eileen Roulent, Anne Mary Donaldson, Steven John Smithers, Leo Brennan, Fr Andrew Horan, Elizabeth Ivy Leavey, William (Bill) Carroll, Gwendolyn Isobel Hodges, Grayton Barryman Rosemeyer, Ivan Patricio Susin, Lee Gordon, Patricia Morgan, Bali Attack Anniversary, William (Bill) Arthur Weise, Fr Gerald McSweeney, Bob Biltoft, Kathleen Eileen Vosti
HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY -
HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES' FIRST RESPONDERS TO NEEDS WITHIN THE HOSPITALS LISTED.
To efficiently and speedily deal with the pastoral needs around the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes within this Deanery have the practice of having the first call for emergencies go to the priests of the parish where the hospital is located. Here is a helpful guide to the hospitals and their attendant priests. A nursing home call also follows this procedure, where the first priest to call is a priest from the parish within which the Nursing Home is located. Please help us service the region effectively and help prevent delays in response by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5576 6466
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
2025 Church Art calendars, 2025 scroll calendars, Christmas cards have arrived in the shops this week.
ADVENT REFLECTION RESOURCE - Arrived available in the shops now
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 on each First Friday, 1/11/24, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am Saturday 2/11/24. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
Anointing Mass – Mass of Healing FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (February-November Inclusive)
10 am Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Tuesday the 5th of November - last for the year (5/11/24) - Followed by morning tea. Please let others know who would love to come along.
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 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.
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, please emailsurfers@bne.catholic.net.au.
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. For more information, please email: psela@bigpond.com
or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Our Lady’s Statue details for the next several weeks are:
14/10/24 Lilly Leongue & Family - Varsity Lakes
21/10/24 Lilly Leongue & Family - Varsity Lakes
28/10/24 Lilly Leongue & Family - Varsity Lakes
4/11/24 Lilly Leongue & Family - Varsity Lakes
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 more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Thursday from 5-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church,
(40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise). Come along and read/study Break Open the Word
weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
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. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
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 contact Grace. For more information, please email:grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
HOMILY: 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/wUuTIqSkjlooLojnwCtO?ru=Paul-Evangelion
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND - Podcast - (EPISODE:500) - Twenty-eighth Sunday of the Year. -Year B - Sunday, 13 October 2024
Hello, I‘m Father Paul Kelly… Faith hope and love. (EPISODE: 1) - the podcast of the liturgy for the Sundays of the year… was first recorded exactly eight years ago this month on the 7th October 2016 - (with a healthy lead time for the broadcast deadline on the 6th of November that same year… and today we reach the blessed milestone of episode 500.
I am astounded… and delighted! Also, I absolutely love recording these podcasts of the Mass, and making it available for all who are unable to be with us at mass – and are with us in prayer and in spirit- and also for those who do join us at mass but also want to re-listen (or pre-listen) and reflect upon the prayers and readings of the mass for the current week…(again or several times) I myself love listening to these readings and prayers as I drive around in my car…
I have been learning and upgrading and constantly attempting to improve
my audio skills and the quality of the sound – as revealed by this snippet of the very first episode… (at the time I thought he sound quality was fantastic, but its bearly listenable 8 years late. (the bell tone in this original episode is too high pitched but it took a listener to let me know that it was irritating and then I noticed it and changed it…it took the terrible time of covid, and listeners requesting the addition of the eucharistic prayers and this has been a joy to pray too… - Thanks be to God for his guidance and inspirations (and all who help with this beautiful work), and of course thanks be to the Lord for his living word which is more precious than anything else….and a joy on the tongue and to the ears and heart… Here is a clip from episode one… (please note – my archival variable quality warning)
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And now- eight years later…always keeping in mind and in heartfelt prayer those who join us from their homes, their care homes, their travels and even their cars or their morning walks…..and from hospital rooms and so many other places…. here is episode 500…. God bless you and keep you all…
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* (Prologue: Fr Paul Kelly)
According to the psalm this weekend, wisdom comes from knowing how relatively short life really is. That is, we gain wisdom when we deeply appreciate the utter preciousness and fragility of this life. Because life is short and vulnerable, the things that really matter, (the things that are of abiding value), become so important to discern….
The things that last are love, (self-sacrificing, unselfish love); and our connection to Jesus and his gospel values….
Attachment to worldly things, to possessions and money, is an enormous obstacle. Of infinitely more value and importance would be spending all our time and energy in searching the depths of God's wisdom and deepening our appreciation of God's ways. This is our lasting treasure.
The second reading tells us that the Word of God is not just a series of letters and words on a page…. Rather; it is ALIVE and ACTIVE!
God's word gets right into our souls and penetrates our lives. God's word challenges us to weigh up our values, our attitudes and actions.
If the word is NOT doing that, if it is always just comfortable and easy and never unsettling, then we need to be wary. A comfortable Word of God may actually be a "neutralized Word of God" or a "watered-down" word of God. The extent to which we humans can make up excuses and self-justifications for our self-serving ways, cannot be underestimated. It needs to be carefully guarded against. The fullness of God's word searches out and reveals our self-deceptions.
In John's Gospel, it goes even further….
The WORD of God is Jesus. Jesus is the "eternal word of the Father"…. And we know that "the WORD became flesh and lived among us…."
So, as disciples, we must allow the Word of God to become alive in our hearts and minds and to radically transform us.
I think of Mary, the Mother of God…. I have mentioned before that Michelangelo did a painting once of Mary, at the Annunciation, being told that she will conceive and bear a son…. Mary says "Yes" to this….
In the painting, there is an unusual image: there is an old-fashioned "hearing-horn," at Mary's ear, like the ones people used to use to help them hear, (in times long before electronic hearing aids). This image is Michelangelo's way of symbolizing that Our Lady conceived the word of God by listening to God's message and accepting it…Taking it into herself. "Mary conceived the word of God, by hearing and listening!" Mary brought the word of God to flesh literally in her life… We must hear God's word, spiritually conceive of it and allow God's word to become incarnate in our lives through our acceptance and action in our lives….
In the Gospel, the rich young man is basically very good…. He has faithfully kept all the laws and commandments of God…..
(In Jesus' time there were a group of people who believed it is possible for a person to be entirely perfect in this life by actually keeping every little rule, commandment and instruction). Jesus loved what he saw as he looked into the sincerity in this man's heart. He saw the desire for his faithful observance of God's commandments. But Our Lord saw one big obstacle: the man's attachment to his worldly goods was getting in the way of him trusting entirely on God's providence and grace. Jesus looked steadily at the man and saw right into his heart and his challenge came straight from his loving heart when he said to the rich man: You need to let go, so as to be fully in synchronization with God's ways. You must allow yourself to be utterly dependent on God alone…. Then you will be perfect!
This was too hard for the man… and it says he went away very sad. He was unable to be perfect because he was letting other things get in the road of his relationship with God….
Then Jesus says the comment about the "camel and the needle." Notice how generations have tried to water this passage down because it is just a bit too challenging. However, we remember that God's word is a finely tuned sword and it will not be blunted! Jesus words were intended to shock and the disciples' reaction indicates that his words hit their mark! Some have tried to suggest that the eye of a needle is the name given to some kind of large door that people pass through; but no. Jesus meant what he said: This exaggeration is meant to mean what it says - It is harder for a camel to pass through the eye of a pin, than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom. The disciples are obviously astounded by this because they reply in shock: "well then, who can be saved?????"
Jesus answers that 'nothing is impossible for God.' And that trust in God's providence allows people to let go of attachments or anything else that gets in the way of their following God. Trust in God's care. Trust not simply on our own human will-power, which is limited.
Jesus, by asking the man to let go of possessions was really saying: It is not good enough to have the right personal attitudes. WE need to go to the very core of injustice and detach ourselves from it. Because possessiveness is found at the root of much that is wrong in society; including the desire to accumulate possessions, money and prestige, at the expense of others…
The rich man could have given all sorts of reasons why he needed to keep his attachments…. Security, or "it could be used to help him to do good"… etc…. but in front of JESUS, who is THE WORD, (who cuts more finely between the bone and the marrow), these excuses would surely have seemed weak and ineffective. The rich man turns and walks away from Jesus. Perhaps he will think about this and return later, after having thought better of what he was leaving behind. We certainly hope so.
The fact is, following Jesus' Way, takes everything we've got. The Way of God is not easy. There are significant challenges in following Christ, and if we have anything (any possession or attachment) that is possibly more important to us than Christ and his gospel, then it could very well come between us at some point of crisis when we have to make a choice or a decision. If we are detached from all things, then we will truly be free to let go of these earthly attachments, if it comes down to a choice between them and Christ's ways. We simply cannot allow our earthly attachments to be used against us in the all-out fight for the establishment of the Kingdom and its values. We cannot be baulked in times of trial if we have released our grip on possessions. Jesus gives us strength and the grace for the hard task of being 'unbound' from anything that keeps us from the fullness of God's life-giving WORD. He encourages us by saying, anyone who gives up these things will gain everything that truly lasts and will win EVERYTHING that really matters.
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References:
2009 – A BOOK OF GRACE-FILLED DAYS.
Liebert, R. (1983). Michelangelo, a psychoanalytic study of his life and images. New Haven: Yale University Press.
SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ
Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.
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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
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 adults at risk. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for abusing children or adults at risk.
YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE
All Powerful Physician:
O Jesus, my love, in memory of the Sacrifice of Thyself which Thou didst offer on the Cross and which Thou dost still offer in the Blessed Sacrament, I beg of Thee to accept that which I make of my whole being, immolated and sacrificed to Thy adorable designs and wishes. Receive me in the spirit of penance and sacrifice. O Heavenly Physician of my soul, Sovereign Remedy for my evils, I present myself to Thee as a sick person without hope in any other but in the charitable Heart of my Savior, who alone knows my maladies and can cure me of them.
I hope for this favour from Thy bounty since in this amiable Sacrament Thou hast made Thyself my medicine, my healing balm. My cowardice and my coldness in Thy love have been the cause of all my infirmities; but Thou canst, if Thou wilt, cure me, for I am ready to suffer anything in order to be cured. Cut, burn, amputate; provided that I love Thee and be saved, I will submit to everything. On my part, I am ready to apply the iron and fire of entire mortification and crucifixion of myself to cure the wounds which pride and self-love have caused to my soul.
Apply Thyself then to my poor languishing heart as a balm of love. O my charitable Physician, have pity on my weakness and deliver me from it for the glory of Thy name. Amen. (By St Margaret Mary Alacoque)
https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/year-of-prayer/
A VOCATION VIEW:
“The word of God is living and effective.” To know the Scriptures, is to know Christ. Maintain a pattern of reading the Scriptures daily to help hear the call you have been given by God. (Hebrews 4:12)
If we believe in something, it does not seem to be a sacrifice to give up everything else to pursue that one dream. Jesus asks for total dedication, promising in return rewards that no one else can promise: “Go and sell everything you own ... then come; follow me.”
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” (MARK 10:25)
Jesus uses tough language that we may not want to hear. However, we are all called to be generous with all of our gifts. Not just the ones we pick and choose, but all our gifts, and especially the one that means the most to us! That includes our time in prayer to God, our talent in participating in parish ministries and our treasure supporting our local parish and other charities.
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 - Don’t be afraid of the dark
“Therefore, whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light.”
The dark night of the soul, a term coined by Spanish mystic Saint John of the Cross, describes a period on the spiritual journey when one feels distant from God and suffers physical and emotional pain. Saint Teresa of Ávila, a close friend of John’s, actually felt like she was going mad as she pursued the contemplative life. But then, in 1567, while gazing at a statue of Jesus, she felt an ecstasy beyond description as she reached “union with God.” Teresa wrote much about her interior life, and she encouraged others to experience the “great gifts that come through abandoning everything to God and dying to oneself.”
Pray for the patience and humility to stay the spiritual course.
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
OCTOBER 14 - m - Saint Callistus I, pope and martyr
"If offences abound, then, let mercy also abound; for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption. In the Lord's hand, all things are abundant because He is the Lord of powers and the King of glory. For the apostle says: "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by His grace, through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God." Saint Callistus, speaking on God's mercy.
OCTOBER 15 - Saint Teresa of Jesus, virgin and doctor of the Church
There are more tears shed over answered prayers than over unanswered prayers.
To have the courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that.
I know the power obedience has of making things easy which seems impossible.
We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can - namely, surrender our will and
fulfil God's will in us.
I do not fear Satan half so much as I fear those who fear him.
Be gentle to all and stern with yourself.
Accustom yourself continually to make many acts of love, for they enkindle and melt the
soul.
Our body has this defect that, the more it is provided care and comforts, the more needs
and desires it finds.
For prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.
“Let nothing perturb you, nothing frighten you. All things pass. God does not change.
Patience achieves everything.”
“May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”
Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”
“It is love alone that gives worth to all things.”
“Christ has no Body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no Body now on earth but yours.”
“It is foolish to think that we will enter heaven without entering into ourselves.”
“Thank God for the things that I do not own.”
“The closer one approaches to God, the simpler one becomes.”
“You pay God a compliment by asking great things of Him.”
“If this is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so many enemies.”
St Margaret Mary Alacoque.
"I need nothing but God, and to lose myself in the heart of Jesus."
My love reigns in suffering, it triumphs in humility and enjoys itself in unity." - Words of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary.
Cling to God, and leave all the rest to Him: He will not let you perish. Your soul is very dear to Him, He wishes to save it.
Keep your heart in peace and let nothing trouble you, not even your faults. You must humble yourself and amend them peacefully, without being discouraged or cast down, for God's dwelling is in peace.
We must never be discouraged or give way to anxiety. . . but ever have recourse to the adorable Heart of Jesus.
Look upon yourself as a tree planted beside the water, which bears its fruit in due season; the more it is shaken by the wind, the deeper it strikes its roots into the ground.
May faith be the torch that illuminates, animates, and sustains you.
Go courageously to God, along the way He has traced out for you, steadfastly embracing the means He offers you.
My greatest happiness is to be before the Blessed Sacrament, where my heart is, as it were, in Its centre.
But above all preserve peace of heart. This is more valuable than any treasure.
I think He intends to try you like gold in the crucible, so as to number you amongst His most faithful servants. Therefore you must lovingly embrace all occasions of suffering, considering them as precious tokens of His love. To suffer in silence and without complaint is what He asks of you.
Let every knee bend before Thee, O greatness of my God, so supremely humbled in the Sacred Host. May every heart love Thee, every spirit adore Thee and every will be subject to Thee!
It is attachment to creatures and self-satisfaction that weakens the blessings of love in your heart. You must die to all that if you wish the pure love of God to reign therein.
Have recourse trustfully to God's loving kindness and He will not forsake you, for He longs to bestow His graces. Though you may have had the misfortune to offend Him, He is always ready to receive you, provided you return humbly to Him.
We must submit to the Will of God and kiss the hand that strikes us, for we know it is better to suffer in this life than in the next, since one moment of suffering willingly accepted for the love of God, is worth an eternity of happiness.
Let us begin in earnest to work out our salvation, for no one will do it for us, since even He Himself, Who made us without ourselves, will not save us without ourselves.
Are you making no progress in prayer? Then you need only offer God the prayers that the Savior has poured out for us in the sacrament of the altar. Offer God His fervent love in reparation for your sluggishness.
He will take good care to provide what is necessary for our sanctification, provided we are careful to accept everything according to His designs.
Do not distress yourself on account of any distaste or dryness you experience in God's service. He wills that you should serve Him fervently and constantly it is true, but without any other help than simple faith, and thus your love will be more disinterested, and your service the more pleasing to Him.
O my Saviour, who am I, that Thou shouldst have so long awaited my repentance!
Since God wishes it - there is nothing to be done. . . Why should you thus torment yourself? Get rid of whatever He shows you to be an obstacle to His love, for His only desire is that you should live stripped of all that is not Himself.
Until we have acquired genuine prayer, we are like people teaching children to begin to walk.
https://www.azquotes.com/author/25112-Margaret_Mary_Alacoque
St Hedwig
“We must adore the decrees of the Almighty, not only in days of happiness but also in those of sorrow and bereavement.”
Would you oppose the will of God? Our lives are His.
The greater one is by birth, the greater one must be in virtue and the more distinguished we are in station, the more we must distinguish ourselves by our conduct, in order to be a bright example to others.
OCTOBER 17 - Saint Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr
St. Ignatius of Antioch "I have no taste for corruptible food nor for the pleasures of this life. I desire the bread of God, which is the flesh of Jesus Christ, who was of the seed of David; and for drink I desire his blood, which is love incorruptible" (Letter to the Romans 7:3 [A.D. 110]). "Take note of those who hold heterodox opinions on the grace of Jesus Christ which has come to us, and see how contrary their opinions are to the mind of God. . . . They abstain from the Eucharist and from prayer because they do not confess that the Eucharist is the flesh of our Savior Jesus Christ, flesh which suffered for our sins and which that Father, in his goodness, raised up again. They who deny the gift of God are perishing in their disputes" (Letter to the Smyrnaeans 6:2–7:1 [A.D. 110]).
We recognize a tree by its fruit, and we ought to be able to recognize a Christian by his action. The fruit of faith should be evident in our lives, for being a Christian is more than making sound professions of faith. It should reveal itself in practical and visible ways. Indeed it is better to keep quiet about our beliefs, and live them out, than to talk eloquently about what we believe, but fail to live by it.
Christianity is not a matter of persuading people of particular ideas, but of inviting them to share in the greatness of Christ. So pray that I may never fall into the trap of impressing people with clever speech, but instead I may learn to speak with humility, desiring only to impress people with Christ himself.
Do not have Jesus Christ on your lips, and the world in your heart.
My dear Jesus, my Saviour, is so deeply written in my heart, that I feel confident, that if my heart were to be cut open and chopped to pieces, the name of Jesus would be found written on every piece.
Christianity is greatest when it is hated by the world.
See that ye all follow the bishop, even as Jesus Christ does the Father, and the presbytery as ye would the apostles; and reverence the deacons, as being the institution of God. Let no man do anything connected with the Church without the bishop. [] Wherever the bishop shall appear, there let the multitude [of the people] also be; even as, wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church. [] Whatsoever [the bishop] shall approve of, that is also pleasing to God, so that everything that is done may be secure and valid.
It is better to be silent and be real than to talk and not be real.
It is right, therefore, that we not just be called Christians, but that we actually be Christians.
I am writing to all the Churches and I enjoin all, that I am dying willingly for God's sake, if only you do not prevent it. I beg you, do not do me an untimely kindness. Allow me to be eaten by the beasts, which are my way of reaching to God. I am God's wheat, and I am to be ground by the teeth of wild beasts, so that I may become the pure bread of Christ.
Take heed often to come together to give thanks to God and show forth His praise. For when you assemble frequently in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith.
It is impossible for a man to be freed from the habit of sin before he hates it, just as it is impossible to receive forgiveness before confessing his trespasses.
Do everything as if He were dwelling in us. Thus we shall be His temples and He will be within us as our God - as He actually is.
No earthly pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire. Do not talk about Jesus Christ as long as you love this world.
Now do I begin to be a disciple of Christ, and care for nothing in this world, that so I may find Jesus. Let fire, or the cross, or wild beasts, or the breaking of my bones, or the cutting of me to pieces, or the shattering of my whole body, yea, all the tortures of the devil - let them all come upon me, only let me enjoy my God.
Wherever the bishop shall appear, there let the multitude also be; even as, wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.
It is not that I want merely to be called a Christian, but actually to be one. Yes, if I prove to be one, then I can have the name.
A Christian is not his own master, since all his time belongs to God.
But look at the men who have those perverted notions about the grace of Jesus Christ which has come down to us, and see how contrary to the mind of God they are. . . . They even abstain from the Eucharist and from the public prayers, because they will not admit that the Eucharist is the self-same body of our Savior Jesus Christ which flesh suffered for our sins, and which the Father of His goodness raised up again.
I wish not merely to be called Christian but also to be Christian.
I hunger for the bread of God, the flesh of Jesus Christ ...; I long to drink of his blood, the gift of unending love.
Our task is not one of producing persuasive propaganda; Christianity shows its greatness when it is hated by the world.
He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire.
Let no man's place, or dignity, or riches, puff him up, and let no man's low condition or poverty abase him. The chief points are faith towards God, hope towards Christ, the enjoyment of those good things for which we look, and love towards God and our neighbour.
Your accord and harmonious love is a hymn to Jesus Christ...in perfect harmony, and taking your pitch from God, you may sing in unison and in one voice to the Father through Jesus Christ.
It is better for me to die on behalf of Jesus Christ than to reign over all the ends of the earth.
Wisdom from Saint Luke the Evangelist: (Quoting the teachings of Our Lord).
“For with God, nothing will be impossible.”
“And so I tell you, keep asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives. Everyone who seeks finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
- “To whom much is given, much will be required from him.”
- “To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic. Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.
Wisdom from St JohnBrébeuf:
-“I was at times so weary that my body could do no more. But at the same time, my soul was filled with great happiness as I realised that I was suffering this for God.”
“God is the witness of our sufferings, and will soon be our exceeding great reward. Let us die in this faith...Sustain with courage the few remaining torments. They will end our lives. The glory which follows them will never have an end.”
Wisdom of Saint Paul of the Cross (1694 – 1775):
The passion of Jesus is a sea of sorrows, but it is also an ocean of love. Ask the Lord to teach you to fish in this ocean. Dive into its depths. No matter how deep you go, you will never reach the bottom. Let us throw ourselves into the ocean of His goodness, where every failing will be cancelled and anxiety turned into love.
The Cross is the way to Paradise, but only when it is borne willingly.
Let everything in creation draw you to God. Refresh your mind with some innocent recreation and needful rest, if it were only to saunter through the garden or the fields, listening to the sermon preached by the flowers, the trees, the meadows, the sun, the sky, and the whole universe. You will find that they exhort you to love and praise God; that they excite you to extol the greatness of the Sovereign Architect Who has given them their being.
Entrust yourself entirely to God. He is a Father and a most loving Father at that, who would rather let heaven and earth collapse than abandon anyone who trusted in him.
The Passion of Christ is Divine Love's greatest and most stupendous work. The greatest and most overwhelming work of God's love.
Be very careful to retain peace of heart, because Satan casts his lines in troubled waters.
Place your hopes in the mercy of God and the merits of our Redeemer; say often, looking at the crucifix: There are centred all my hopes.
I tell you that victory consists in conquering self. That is the greatest enemy.
Meditation on Jesus Christ's crucified is a precious balm that sweetens all pains.
Celebrate the feast of Christmas every day, even every moment in the interior temple of your spirit, remaining like a baby in the bosom of the heavenly Father, where you will be reborn each moment in the Divine Word, Jesus Christ.
Here, learn the science of the Saints: All is to be found in the passion of Jesus. Make every effort to remain hidden in the wounds of Jesus, and you will be enriched with every good and every true light, enabling you to fly to that Perfection that is consonant with your way of life.
He that rises after his falls, with confidence in God and profound humility of heart, will become, in God's hands, a proper instrument for the accomplishment of great things; but he who acts otherwise can never do any good.
In uniting yourself to God's will, you take on new life and gather great courage, willingly embracing the cross and kissing His hand even when it chastises you, a hand that reaches out to you in love and has no other intention but your greater spiritual well-being.
When you feel the assaults of passion and anger, then is the time to be silent as Jesus was silent in the midst of His ignominies and sufferings.
You do wrong to complain of your crosses and sufferings. Believe me, you know not what it is to suffer. God preserve you from suffering even one day what has been endured by a certain soul, whose name I must not disclose!
Avoid failing, not only against purity but even against the least rules of exact modesty.
Let a weak and frail man come here suppliantly to adore the Sacrament of Christ, not to discuss high things or wish to penetrate difficulties, but to bow down to secret things in humble veneration, and to abandon God's mysteries to God, for Truth deceives no man- Almighty God can do all things. Amen.
THE POPE
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pxE7fgrBJc3mY5cUNEn1?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Pope tells young people to approach life as a pilgrim, not a sightseer - 18 September 2024
To fully experience love and hope, young people must approach life's journey as pilgrims and not just sightseers seeking the perfect selfie, Pope Francis said in his message for World Youth Day 2024. Source: CNS.
“Do not be like superficial sightseers, blind to the beauty around you, never discovering the meaning of the roads you take, interested only in a few fleeting moments to capture in a selfie. Tourists do this,” the Pope said in a message to young people ahead of the local celebrations of World Youth Day on November 24.
“Pilgrims, on the other hand, immerse themselves fully in the places they encounter, listen to the message they communicate and make them a part of their quest for happiness and fulfillment,” the Pope wrote in the message released by the Vatican yesterday.
The November celebrations of World Youth Day are taking place just a month before Pope Francis is scheduled to open the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica and inaugurate the Holy Year 2025.
“The Jubilee pilgrimage,” he told young people, “is meant to be the outward sign of an inward journey that all of us are called to make toward our final destination.”
While expressing his hope that many young people would be able to make a pilgrimage to Rome during the Holy Year, including the July 28-August 3 celebration of the Jubilee of Youth, the Pope said he hoped the year would be an opportunity for all Catholics to have “a moment of genuine, personal encounter with the Lord Jesus, the ‘Door’ of our salvation”.
Three attitudes should characterise Catholics’ celebration of the Holy Year, he said.
“First, thanksgiving, with hearts open to praise God for his many gifts, especially the gift of life.
Then, a spirit of seeking, as an expression of our heart’s unquenchable thirst to encounter the Lord,” he said.
“And finally, penance, which helps us to look within, to acknowledge the wrong paths and decisions we have at times taken and, in this way, to be converted to the Lord and to the light of his Gospel.”
FULL STORY
Be pilgrims, not tourists in life, Pope tells young people (By Cindy Wooden, CNS)
Commitment to Child Safety and Adults at Risk. We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community. Please see the pages below for more information. ………………..
Acknowledgement of Country -
This is Kombumerri Country, the traditional custodian 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/)
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** 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.”
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St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx
Each Parish in the Archdiocese of Brisbane has a Local Safeguarding Representative who is responsible for:
Making sure that the whole parish is aware of the importance of safeguarding children and adults at risk.
Promoting safe practices, including articulating for others what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, and
Assisting the Parish Priest and staff in the implementation of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Children and Adults-at-risk Policy in the Parish
The Archdiocesan Safeguarding Children & Adults-at-risk Prevention & Protection Policy can be found at: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/support/safeguard
WAYS TO REPORT A SAFEGUARDING INCIDENT OR CONCERN OR TO GIVE FEEDBACK REGARDING SAFEGUARDING
Here is how you can report an incident or concern, or contact someone to talk about a safeguarding matter or get more information:
Talk to the police (Emergency: '000' Non-emergency: 131 444) or KidsHelpLine (1800 55 1800 or www.kidshelpline.com.au)
Through the anonymous STOPline (1300 304 550 or AOB@stopline.com.au)
talk to our Local Parish Safeguarding Representative
Fill out a Safeguarding Incident Report and send it to safeguarding@bne.catholic.net.au or GPO Box 282 Brisbane Qld 4001
VOLUNTEERS - Parish Ministries, Groups etc.
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has implemented standards of conduct for voluntary church workers to maintain a safe and healthy ministry environment. Our commitment to these standards requires that we have a record of your Blue Card and conduct background referencing for all who intend to engage in voluntary ministry, having direct and regular involvement with children, young people and adults at risk.
SAFEGUARDING TRAINING
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has the following safeguarding training packages, Safeguarding Induction, Applied Safeguarding Training and Training for Local Safeguarding Representatives, which can be viewed here: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/safeguarding-training
BLUE CARD - ‘No Card, No Start’
Individuals must have a valid blue card before starting paid work or volunteering. All cardholders must apply to renew their blue card before it expires to continue working/volunteering. If an individual lets their card expire, they must cease work until they obtain a new valid blue card. For further information about the Blue Card Application process, please click here >>
SEE ALSO
‘Police Check’ can now be completed online using InterCheck. Volunteers can do this via the Volunteer Portal, http://archbne.org/welcome, which will inform them whether they need a Police Check for their ministry.
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