PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“Lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28)
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/WmkBI71Zoac6pYhGERlO?ru=Paul-Evangelion
ST VINCENT DE PAUL CHRISTMAS PLANNING AND FUNDRAISING
SVDP Christmas Appeal Surfers Paradise Conference
The Surfers Paradise St Vincent de Paul conference calls on all parishioners to help give hope to struggling local families.
Scrolls are available in the churches with specific items you can contribute as a gift towards our Christmas hampers. Each year, this appeal allows for the distribution of hampers to companions and families in our community who are struggling due to financial difficulties. Please drop off donations no later than Wednesday 11th December as our Christmas hampers will be available for pick up or distribution on Sunday 15 th December 2024.
On the weekend of the 7 th and 8 th December, the SVDP Surfers Paradise conference annual Christmas appeal will take place with collections at the end of every Mass. This financial appeal is critical for our conference to urgently assist those in need.
The generosity of the parish does not go unnoticed in our local community. In the last 12 months local Vincentians have done 616 visits and assisted 1,311 people directly and indirectly. We have provided financial assistance of $63,477, in-kind assistance (furniture, Christmas hampers, food and Vinnie’s gift cards for clothing etc.) of $20,230.
We are seeing an increase in those facing homelessness, due to the high cost of living and housing crisis. With your ongoing support, we can continue to provide comfort and tangible assistance to help people get back on their feet. Local Vincentians offer help in many forms, including food, clothing, furniture, rental assistance and other bills.
Your generous donation will help us continue these good works. Should you wish for more detail on the activities of the conference, or would like to become a member please contact Conference President Wendy Webb via email: wendy.webb@svdpqld.org.au
In case you miss out on a scroll… here is the list you can select from. Please provide one or more of the following items which will be put into the Vinnies Christmas hampers….
Christmas Scrolls for Parish Christmas Appeal :
Event Cinema Gift Card (Movie ticket)
Walkers Shortbread
Cadbury Chocolate Coated Almonds (280g)
Corinthians Cream Wafers Chocolate Style (350g)
Plumrose Ham leg (450g)
Fruit salad in juice (825g)
Fruit Mince Pies 2 x (pkt 6)
Pretzel Minis Entertainment Party Bag 2 x (225g)
Christmas Pudding (700g)
Nescafe Coffee Cappuccino sachet (10pkt)
Long life Custard 2 x (1 litre)
Lollies Party mix 2 x (100g)
CHRISTMAS MASSES IN THIS PARISH -
CHRISTMAS EVE TUESDAY 24TH DECEMBER 2024
STELLA MARIS CHURCH, BROADBEACH
Christmas Eve: 5.00 PM VIGIL MASS. Fr Warren
ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE
Christmas Eve: 5.00 PM VIGIL MASS. (SPECIAL CHRISTMAS MASS TIME ONLY) - Fr Paul
SACRED HEART CHURCH, CLEAR ISLAND WATERS
Christmas Eve (vigil): 5.00 PM=FAMILY MASS with Children’s Nativity Play- Fr Anthony .
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8:00 PM SPECIAL MASS (Christmas Eve only).- Fr Paul
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CHRISTMAS DAY - WEDNESDAY 25TH DECEMBER 2024.
SACRED HEART CHURCH, CLEAR ISLAND WATERS
Christmas Day:
9.00 AM - Fr Anthony
(No evening mass at SH)
ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE
Christmas Day: 8.00 AM & 10.00 AM - Fr Paul
Hispanic Mass 5:30 PM
STELLA MARIS CHURCH, BROADBEACH
{Stella Maris. 254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, 4218
Christmas Day: 7.00 AM - Fr Bernie Gallagher
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We are currently contacting coordinators for each of the Christmas masses. If you would like to volunteer to assist at a particular Christmas (or Christmas Eve) time slot at Sacred Heart Church, please ring the parish office 56717388 between 9am and 2pm, Monday to Friday. Once the Coordinators and Parish Sacramental Team have worked out the roles appropriate to considerations such as the expected attendance, the roster will be emailed to those required for ministries on the day. We will require: altar servers, collectors, sacristans, communion ministers, ministers of the word, audio visual operators...The music ministry will be organised through the Parish Music Team. St Vincent’s Church volunteers are asked to speak directly to Pat Kelly. Stella Maris Church volunteers for the Christmas Vigil are asked to speak to Lorelle Rawlings.
Thank you in anticipation of your generous responses and your understanding that the roles will be shared with much care and consideration of the whole faith community.
Fun with Children’s Liturgy of the word (CLOW) families. Christmas party.
Join us for a festive time after mass for food and fun with the CLOW community December 8th at 10 am. See you there.
Transitional Deacons Ordained -
Deacons Sang Duc Bui, Sean Woods and BJ Perrett
What a joyful way to close off another year at Holy Spirit Seminary! The ordination to the transitional deaconate of BJ Perrett, Sang Duc Bui and Sean Woods. Recently on the 15 November 2024.
You may recall Deacon Sang Duc Bui who had his Advent placement in this parish a few years back. Our prayers are with them all as they journey towards Priesthood.
Holy Spirit Seminary is excited to welcome Sean, Sang and BJ as transitional deacons. The video of the ordination is found here:
The Mass Booklet is also available here: Rite of Ordination to Diaconate
PASTOR’S POST - First Advent Candle - Hope
The first candle symbolises a shining light in anticipation of the coming of Christ. It is usually a purple candle and can be called the Prophecy Candle. It represents God's forgiveness of humanity’s sins. Purple is traditionally the most important of the Advent candle colours. It is the colour of liturgical garments used for vestments and is associated with prayer, contemplation, repentance, and hope.
Advent has begun.
A new church year has also begun.
It is a time of renewal and ‘new beginnings.”
From a church perspective, now is the best time to bring out those inspiring ‘New Year resolutions’ (Christian-style) and for us to ask God to direct and guide us as we immerse ourselves deeper (and more profoundly, each day) into the reality of God’s love, compassion, mercy and justice.
We have commenced our four-week preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord. It is such a short time of preparation that we must be vigilant because the season's busyness could easily mean that we “blink and miss it.”
This weekend's readings are about preparing and being ‘ready’, ' staying awake’, and watchful.
The Church's year has a different timing from the usual secular calendar year. This weekend, with the first Sunday of Advent, a new Church liturgical year has begun. (FHL)
We have a three-year cycle of readings. The Church's liturgical year begins with Advent, in anticipation of the birth of Christ. Every year we focus upon and read continuously through a particular gospel.
The weekend cycle covers three years. Year A, Matthew's gospel. Year B, which we've just concluded, was Mark's gospel.
And Year C is Luke's gospel, which begins this weekend. If you're wondering why there isn't a fourth-year cycle, with John's gospel as the fourth, it's because John's gospel is so rich in theology, and the latest of the four gospels is spread throughout all of the years and is especially fitting in Lent, Easter and Christmas times. The readings are fairly continuous through this three-year cycle, although parts are not included, largely due to repetition or to fit the asymmetrical nature of the Bible into a neat three-year cycle.
There may be some jumping about, so the Old Testament readings are often placed on the same weekend next to a gospel passage with similar contrasting or expanded themes. The beauty of our continuous cycle of readings is in the Catholic Church, and in most mainstream Christian churches, there is this set cycle of readings. Our lectionary is usually the Bible divided up into regular instalments that continue on from the previous week.
The thing about this is that over that three-year cycle, we cover most of the Old and New Testament readings. The weekday readings are also a separate cycle, quite independent from the weekends, which cover a two-year period. In the weekday cycle, the first reading changes, and the gospel is the same for the same weekday of the year, irrespective of whether it be year one or two, that's for the weekdays only.
The advantage of this way of choosing readings is twofold. We progressively hear from the breadth of the scriptures, not just old favourites. The other reason is that we let the Word of God choose us, and not us choose the Word of God.
If we arbitrarily choose the readings for each weekend, it could open up the scriptures to all sorts of watering down. For example, some texts are more challenging and less pleasant than others. How many times have you seen when a group is choosing readings for a liturgy that they might be skip over an option because the subject matter is not pleasant, or might even be deemed rather arbitrarily irrelevant? In fact, most scriptures are very relevant, if we sit with them and ponder their often challenging meaning.
Admittedly, some passages seem more readily relevant than others, but that can be a great trap. Also, for the preacher, it could be a temptation to pick the readings that are easier, more entertaining, more engaging to preach upon. But in the end, surely the Word of God needs to be let free to set the agenda, and not us.
Also, a challenging word from the Bible can be quite neutralised if people think that the preacher or others have chosen a particular passage to get a particular point across. So in our system, if a reading comes up that's uncannily topical, it's not chosen by the minister, it's the action of the Spirit who enlivens the Word of God contained in these scriptures. So we begin Advent.
A new church year has begun. It's a time of renewal and new beginnings. From a church perspective, now is the best time to bring out those inspiring New Year resolutions, Christian style, and for us to ask God to direct and guide us as we immerse ourselves deeper and deeper each day into the reality of God's love, compassion, mercy, and justice.
We've commenced our four-week preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord. It's such a short time of preparation that we have to be vigilant because the busyness of this season could easily mean that we blink and miss it. This weekend's readings are all about preparing and being ready, staying awake, and being watchful.
I particularly like St Paul's words in the second reading. May the Lord be generous in increasing your love and make you love one another and the whole human race as much as we love you. And may he so confirm your hearts in holiness so as to make more and more progress in the kind of life that you're meant to live, the life that God wants.
The whole purpose, the whole point and goal of our lives of faith is to continue along the path of loving our God by means of deepening our love and reverence for one another. Our attitudes, our thoughts, and actions are intended to foster each day an ever deeper love, a deep charity and concern for all our fellow brothers and sisters. That's all people.
What a wonderful calling to strive with God's grace to be everything God desires us to be. We're called to grow daily in love, goodwill, peace, and mercy. The readings also ask us some important questions.
Do you believe that God will indeed fulfill his solemn promises to us? Do you believe that in the end God will come in power and establish in its fullness the heavenly kingdom of God's peace, justice, and mercy? Do you believe that ultimately, honesty, peace, and integrity, and above all love, will be at the center of all creation through Christ? Come Lord Jesus, teach us your truth. Establish your kingdom in all its fullness.
The readings also ask us some important questions: Do you believe that God will indeed fulfil his solemn promises to us? Do you truly believe that in the end, God will come in power and glory to establish the Heavenly Kingdom of God’s peace, justice and mercy in its fullness? Do you believe that, ultimately, honesty, peace, integrity and love will be at the centre of all creation through Christ?
Come, Lord Jesus, teach us your truth and love. Establish your Kingdom in its fullness.
Fr Paul
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Creative Christmas Market - (Hospitality Centre - 7/12/24)
Saturday, December 7th, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Art, craft, jewellery, plants, candles,
So much more from local artisans.
All works are done with meticulous art and love.
“Everything must be new.”
Place: Hospitality Centre, Sacred Heart, near the Sacred Heart—Sacred Grounds coffee shop, 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. Applicants interested in selling their creativity are welcome to apply.
Contact: Grace Greenhouse
0475 134 414 or 0410 006 484. Plants Boutique and Gifts
Children’s Nativity Play 2024
All parish children, and children visiting from parishes elsewhere, are invited to be part of our Children’s Nativity Play.
Our Children’s Nativity Play for 2024 will be part of our 5pm Christmas Vigil, Family Mass celebrated in Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, on Tuesday December 24.
We ask that children who are interested in being involved on the evening of the Christmas Vigil Mass attend three practices at Sacred Heart Church:
Practice 1 - Wednesday, December 18 beginning at 10:30am until midday
Practice 2 - Friday, December 20 beginning at 10:30am until midday
Practice 3 - Monday, December 23 beginning 10:30am until midday.
The practices will be led by our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson and assisted by Marylou Ayres who is a member of our Parish Sacramental Team. Throughout each practice, children attending must be accompanied by a parent or an adult designated by the parents of the child/ren.
You are most welcome to email Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au to indicate your child’s interest or you can simply turn up at the church on the day of the first practice.
Gold Coast City Choir visits Sacred Heart for a concert 7th December
Gold Coast City Choir (GCCC) presents Christmas Cantata "Little Lion Little Lamb'
2:00 pm, Sat, 7 Dec 2024
Start time: 2:00pm
Venue: Sacred Heart Church - 50 Fairway Dr, Clear Island Waters QLD 4226
Ticket pricing/options: $10 cash or card at the door
Please support this wonderful ecumenical event
which is being hosted by our parish
Lions Club - Traditional Christmas Cakes FRUIT CAKES –
1 kg $16.00, or 1.5kg $20.00.
Buy from Aruma Burleigh Clubhouse Crew until Thu 19 Dec 2024
(Order from Leanne Peters)
Lay volunteers providing pastoral care to the sick in hospitals
are invaluable as part of holistic patient care. The foundation for this ministry lies in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Centacare provides accredited training for compassionate men and women who would like to explore if this ministry is where God is calling them to practical Christian action in their lives. The next training course will start in February 2025. To express your interest or to find out more about the course and the volunteer role please email judy.norris@bne.centacare.net.au or phone 3324 3193
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Christmas Gifts from Palms!
Are you looking to give something really special this year?
Something that makes a tangible difference?
Palms has the shop for you!
Whether it be a GIFT directly supporting our overseas development program, or some unique Timorese GIFTS for your loved one’s home, you’ll find that perfect GIFT here!
Just scan the QR or go to palms.org.au/donate/palms-gift-shop
Happy shopping! And yes, your purchase assists the amazing communities overseas
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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The Café - “Sacred Grounds” - Located at the Former Atrium
Building near the Sacred Heart Church.
The café outside the Sacred Heart Church has been a wonderful gathering place for parishioners, school parents, staff, and the wider public. The feedback has been that the café is a great idea, but its location in the front of the church is not ideal. The café has now re-opened in the old Atrium building. This will allow community building whilst giving the church the space it needs for its Masses, Weddings, Baptisms and solemn Funerals. Please support this excellent continuation of the parish vision. Chris and his staff are delighted to welcome you.
FANS and DOORS in OUR CHURCHES
It's that time of year again. Please note that the church has a policy regarding fans, windows, and doors.
DURING CHURCH SERVICES - FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING the HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON PLEASE AND DOORS TO BE LEFT OPEN PLEASE FOR AIR CIRCULATION AND BREEZES! Please Don't Ask The Coordinator To Turn Them Off. And no one has permission to touch or switch the fan settings except our coordinators. Also, please do not close the doors (or windows) of the church,m as we need fresh air for the well-being of others. The same applies if it starts raining outside. Please do not shut doors and windows, as almost all of these are protected by balconies and verandahs, and there is virtually no chance of rain getting in. Even when it is raining, it can still be hot and humid, and closing things up and turning off fans worsens the situation. Coordinators are following Church Health and Safety directions. It may be necessary to relocate to another seat that suits your needs better or bring something warm to put on. As you can imagine, we cannot adjust these large spaces to meet everyone’s personal needs, so we need to set them for general conditions, and individuals can then bring whatever they require for their individual needs. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Fr Dan Ryan’s PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY IN THE 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
2025 - Holy Year Pilgrimage In Italyould you like to go to Italy with Fr Dan Ryan next May for the Holy Year?
Fr Dan Ryan has organised a Pilgrimage to Italy from May 9th to May 24th.
We will spend 4 nights in Assisi and 4 nights in Rome.
The Pilgrimage will go from Venice to Rome via Florence, Padua, Siena, and San Giovanni Rotonda (Padre Pio).
There will be brochures at the front of the church next week, or you can go to
https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/pv2569 - for more information. Or you can contact Harvest Journeys on 1800 819 156
Fr Dan Ryan.
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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. The next Session No. 3 will be held on 19 January 2025.
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.
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.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 6/12/24, 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 7/12/24. 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)
Lindsay Allan, Robert Andreas, Joseph Antony, Milroy Antony, Tricia Baumann, Nellie Bellinger, Graham Bousen, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Nadia Ceh, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Shirley Croft, Christopher Cunningham, Mary Curmi, Bernie Delaney, Christopher Eid, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Mary Hirst, Andrew Janiec, Jenny Johnson, Sr Elisabeth Keane, Leona Kelly, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Dannielle Therese Larney, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Angela Micallef, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Carmela Parente, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Karsten Rickert, Bob Rogers, Maureen Scott, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Billy Webb
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Neville Fullerton, Simon Cruickshank, Antonio Risotto, Angela D’Rozario, Brendan James Hill, Jill Margaret Gill, Vincent Comito, Baby Mila Annie Long, Isobel Mary Corvesor, Fred Downham, Patricia Sulzberger, Marie Dodsworth, Christine Jones, Peter Norris, Geraldine Clissold, Des Stuckey, Giuseppe (Joe) Currenti, Alfonso Covino, John Carey, Tommy Harris, Rosa Maria Tassone, Antonius Bennik, Alexis McCoy, Brenda Stewart.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Norbert Bestkamp, Rev Dr Thomas Boland, Fr Ronald Bopf, Paul Broughton, Clare Debozy, William (Bill) Goodrem, Beth Green, Jan Hart, Kenneth Rex (Rex) Howard, Marko Jaksic, Howard John (John) Jones, Christopher Leigh Kennedy, Peter John Llewellyn, Doris Catherine Mathews, Fabian McCarthy, Doreen Mary McCarthy, Josephine Barbara McIver, John McKinstry, Kaiden (Joseph) Ng, Antonio Perez, Michelina Pernazza, Angela Radin, Colin Peter Randazzo, Owen Louis Ryan, Michael Joseph Scanlan, Iris Ann Elizabeth Scerri, Fr Keith Turner, Helen Margaret White, Norman John Desmond (Des) White.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Julio Astorga, Fr Stanislaus Barry , Latina Adele Calista, Herbert Dawson, Anna Guila Diepold, Ryan Evalds Erglis, Jan Falk, Barbara Anne Farrell, Fr Joseph Flannery, Angela Mary Hawes, Joseph Horvatt, David Isbel, Arnold Jones, Mons Grantly Lake, Anthony John Makin, Joy Margaret McNaught, Werner Meyer, Fr Gerard Mulholland, Mervyn Kenneth Nelson, Maria Hue Thi Nygen, Rev Dr Owen Oxenham, Catherine Phythian, Fr Dennis Riley, Shirley Ryan, Fr John Shannon, Fr Neal Shannon, Leonardo Sorrenti, Joan Valmae Stewart, David Valencour.
HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY -
HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES' FIRST RESPONDERS TO NEEDS WITHIN THE HOSPITALS LISTED.
To efficiently and speedily deal with the pastoral needs around the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes within this Deanery have the practice of having the first call for emergencies go to the priests of the parish where the hospital is located. Here is a helpful guide to the hospitals and their attendant priests. A nursing home call also follows this procedure, where the first priest to call is a priest from the parish within which the Nursing Home is located. Please help us service the region effectively and help prevent delays in response by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5576 6466
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
A variety of Christmas gifts available now , with plentiful supplies of Christmas cards, Columban Calendars, and many new Christmas nativities.
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, 6/12/24, 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 a.m. Saturday, 7/12/24. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP (Last session will be on 17th December - Resumes 21st January 2025)
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 - (Last session will be on 10th December - Resumes 14th January 2025)
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:
2/12/24 Suzanne Joseph Robina
9/12/24 Julio & Eileen Camera Nerang
16/12/24 Julio & Eileen Camera Nerang
Marian Valley Pilgrimage
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church 13.12.2024 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine 5529 1573
If You need further information, please contact Xavier on 0404 843 260.or Chris Raynal 0451 302 674.
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH - (Last session 17th December 2024 - Resumes 21st January 2025)
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. - (Last meeting will be on 18 December 2024 - Resumes 8th January 2025)
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Wednesday 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 (Last meeting will be on 10th December - Resumes 21st January 2025)
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
Vatican International Photography Contest
In the context of the Jubilee of Sport for the year 2025, the Dicastery for Culture and Education (Vatican) is promoting an international photography contest under the title:
'Sport in Motion'.
The contest includes five categories of photography:
- Sport and Hope (sport as a message of hope to society)
- Sport and Family (sport as a moment of family life)
- Sport and Disability (sport as a platform for inclusion
- Sport and Politics (sport as a resources accessible to all
- Sport and Ecology (the relationship of sport with the elements of nature)
The deadline for entries is 30 Apr il 2025, and the winners will be announced at the
Jubilee of Sport (14-15 June, 2025).
The winners will be awarded a meeting with the Holy Father, a visit to the Vatican
Museums, a workshop in the Osservatore Romany newspaper and the international dissemination of the photos in the Holy See's media.
To enter, send your submissions to sportinmotion@dce.va . Further information about the contest can be found on the Dicastery's website via this link:
https://www.dce.va/it/news/2024/concorso-di-fotografia.html
A VOCATION VIEW: Our Lord JESUS CHRIST, KING of the UNIVERSE - B
Be on the watch! Allow God to lead you in the ways of truth and justice. God is calling you to serve. (Jeremiah 33:14-16)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” (Luke 21:28)
We celebrate Advent each year in preparation for the birth of Jesus, His first coming, as we await His second coming. What will you do differently this Advent season to grow in friendship and love with Jesus? How will you inspire others to do the same? Start by sharing your God story with others, especially those that are closest to you. Invite and accompany them on their faith journey this Advent.
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 - A sober reckoning
Happy Advent! Although this season shares Lent’s purple colour, it’s not meant to evoke the penitential atmosphere of that other preparatory season. Yet Advent does invite us to a more contemplative mood. Apart from the dizzying holiday pace of December, we make room to ponder a mystery. God is with us: as a baby born to mortal limits, as the boundless Lord of the end-times, and as the Spirit that accompanies us right now, through all our days. Our times give us many reasons to be afraid. The perfect love of God-with-us casts out every fear.
“People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world.” (Luke 21:25-28, 34-36)
HOMILY: GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Homily: First Sunday Advent.Year C - Sunday, 1 December 2024
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/Pdw7VndWeZeotDhAf5Bv?ru=Paul-Evangelion
The Church's year has a different timing from the usual secular calendar year. This weekend, with the first Sunday of Advent, a new Church liturgical year has begun. (FHL)
We have a three-year cycle of readings. The Church's liturgical year begins with Advent, in anticipation of the birth of Christ. Every year we focus upon and read continuously through a particular gospel.
The weekend cycle covers three years. Year A, Matthew's gospel. Year B, which we've just concluded, was Mark's gospel.
And Year C is Luke's gospel, which begins this weekend. If you're wondering why there isn't a fourth year cycle, with John's gospel as the fourth, it's because John's gospel is so rich in theology, and the latest of the four gospels is spread throughout all of the years, and is especially fitting in Lent, Easter and Christmas times. The readings are fairly continuous through this three-year cycle, although parts are not included, largely due to repetition, or to fit the asymmetrical nature of the Bible into a neat three-year cycle.
There may be some jumping about so that the Old Testament readings are often placed in the same weekend next to a gospel passage with similar contrasting or expanded themes. The beauty of our continuous cycle of readings is in the Catholic Church, and most of the mainstream Christian churches, there is this set cycle of readings. Our lectionary is usually the Bible divided up into regular installments that continue on from the previous week.
The thing about this is that over that three-year cycle, we cover most of the Old and New Testament readings. The weekday readings are also a separate cycle, quite independent from the weekends, which cover a two-year period. In the weekday cycle, the first reading changes, and the gospel is the same for the same weekday of the year, irrespective of whether it be year one or two, that's for the weekdays only.
The advantage of this way of choosing readings is twofold. We progressively hear from the breadth of the scriptures, not just old favourites. The other reason is that we let the Word of God choose us, and not us choose the Word of God.
If we arbitrarily choose the readings for each weekend, it could open up the scriptures to all sorts of watering down. For example, some texts are more challenging and less pleasant than others. How many times have you seen when a group is choosing readings for a liturgy that they might be skip over an option because the subject matter is not pleasant, or might even be deemed rather arbitrarily irrelevant? In fact, most scriptures are very relevant, if we sit with them and ponder their often challenging meaning.
Admittedly, some passages seem more readily relevant than others, but that can be a great trap. Also, for the preacher, it could be a temptation to pick the readings that are easier, more entertaining, more engaging to preach upon. But in the end, surely the Word of God needs to be let free to set the agenda, and not us.
Also, a challenging word from the Bible can be quite neutralised if people think that the preacher or others have chosen a particular passage to get a particular point across. So in our system, if a reading comes up that's uncannily topical, it's not chosen by the minister, it's the action of the Spirit who enlivens the Word of God contained in these scriptures. So we begin Advent.
A new church year has begun. It's a time of renewal and new beginnings. From a church perspective, now is the best time to bring out those inspiring New Year resolutions, Christian style, and for us to ask God to direct and guide us as we immerse ourselves deeper and deeper each day into the reality of God's love, compassion, mercy, and justice.
We've commenced our four-week preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord. It's such a short time of preparation that we have to be vigilant because the busyness of this season could easily mean that we blink and miss it. This weekend's readings are all about preparing and being ready, staying awake, and being watchful.
I particularly like St Paul's words in the second reading. May the Lord be generous in increasing your love and make you love one another and the whole human race as much as we love you. And may he so confirm your hearts in holiness so as to make more and more progress in the kind of life that you're meant to live, the life that God wants.
The whole purpose, the whole point and goal of our lives of faith is to continue along the path of loving our God by means of deepening our love and reverence for one another. Our attitudes, our thoughts, and actions are intended to foster each day an ever deeper love, a deep charity and concern for all our fellow brothers and sisters. That's all people.
What a wonderful calling to strive with God's grace to be everything God desires us to be. We're called to grow daily in love, goodwill, peace, and mercy. The readings also ask us some important questions.
Do you believe that God will indeed fulfill his solemn promises to us? Do you believe that in the end God will come in power and establish in its fullness the heavenly kingdom of God's peace, justice, and mercy? Do you believe that ultimately, honesty, peace, and integrity, and above all love, will be at the center of all creation through Christ? Come Lord Jesus, teach us your truth. Establish your kingdom in all its fullness.
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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.
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
Saint Francis Xavier:
“Many, many people hereabouts are not becoming Christians for one reason only: there is nobody to make them Christians.”
“Tell the students to give up their small ambitions and come eastward to preach the gospel of Christ.”
“I have heard thousands of confessions, but never one of covetousness.”
“I want to be where there are out-and-out pagans.”
“Give me the child until he is seven, and I'll give you the man”
It is impossible to find a saint who did not take the “two P’s” seriously: prayer and penance. –St. Francis Xavier, Priest
Would to God that these men who labour so much in gaining knowledge would give as much thought to the account they must one day give to God of the use they have made of their learning and the talents entrusted to them.. .
It is not the actual physical exertion that counts towards a one’s progress, nor the nature of the task, but by the spirit of faith with which it is undertaken
December 4: Saint JOHN DAMASCENE, PRIEST, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH
Iconic inspiration
Think of how much the sacred images of Jesus, Mary, angels, and the saints—in painting, stained glass, and sculpture—have filled your life and your devotional prayer, and also stimulated your spirit. You might have many sacred images throughout your home. Perhaps you can find them in different public places in your city. Our Catholic churches are certainly full of them. Think of how much they inspire and prompt you to momentary prayer, a fleeting lifting of your heart and mind to God as you pass by them, or long stretches on your knees, deep in conversation. You can partly thank John Damascene, who defended holy images against iconoclasm, a movement in the eighth century that was opposed to the veneration of icons. Treasure the rich imagery of our tradition.
The whole earth is a living icon of the face of God.
In former times, God, who is without form or body, could never be depicted. But now when God is seen in the flesh conversing with men, I make an image of the God whom I see. I do not worship matter; I worship the Creator of matter who became matter for my sake.
All who ask receive, those who seek find, and to those who knock it shall be opened. Therefore, let us knock at the beautiful garden of Scripture. It is fragrant, sweet, and blooming with various sounds of spiritual and divinely inspired birds. They sing all around our ears, capture our hearts, comfort the mourners, pacify the angry, and fill us with everlasting joy.
I do not worship matter, I worship the God of matter, who became matter for my sake and deigned to inhabit matter, who worked out my salvation through matter. I will not cease from honoring that matter which works for my salvation. I venerate it, though not as God.
If a pagan asks you to show him your faith, take him into church and place him before the icons.
The saints must be honored as friends of Christ and children and heirs of God. Let us carefully observe the manner of life of all the apostles, martyrs, ascetics, and just men who announced the coming of the Lord. And let us emulate their faith, charity, hope, zeal, life, patience under suffering, and perseverance unto death so that we may also share their crowns of glory.
The Eucharist is a fire which inflames us
Think of the Father as a spring of life begetting the Son like a river and the Holy Ghost like a sea, for the spring and the river and sea are all one nature. Think of the Father as a root, and of the Son as a branch, and the Spirit as a fruit, for the substance in these three is one. The Father is a sun with the Son as rays and the Holy Ghost as heat.
The whole earth is a living icon of the face of God. ... I do not worship matter. I worship the Creator of matter who became matter for my sake, who willed to take His abode in matter, who worked out my salvation through matter. Never will I cease honoring the matter which wrought my salvation! I honor it, but not as God. Because of this I salute all remaining matter with reverence, because God has filled it with his grace and power. Through it my salvation has come to me.
Gluttony should be destroyed by self-control; unchastity by desire for God and longing for the blessings held in store; avarice by compassion for the poor; anger by goodwill and love for all men; worldly dejection by spiritual joy; listlessness by patience, perseverance and offering thanks to God; self-esteem by doing good in secret and by praying constantly with a contrite heart; and pride by not judging or despising anyone in the manner of the boastful Pharisee (cf. Lk. 18:11-12), and by considering oneself the least of all men.
Devotion to you, O Blessed Virgin, is a means of salvation which God gives to those whom he wishes to save.
Because of the Incarnation, I salute all remaining matter with reverence.
Christ the Lord is risen. Our joy that hath no end.
How can this come about?" Mary asked. "The Holy Spirit will come upon you," the angel answered, "and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow." And now you are the one who puts the question: "How can bread become Christ and wine His Blood?" I answer: "The power of the Holy Spirit will be at work to give us a marvel which surpasses understanding.
Angels are intelligent reflections of light, that original light which has no beginning. They can illuminate. They do not need tongues or ears, for they can communicate without speech, in thought.
O Mother of God! If I place my confidence in thee, I shall be saved; if I am under thy protection, I have nothing to fear; for the fact of being thy client is a possession of a certainty of salvation which God grants only to those whom He intends to save.
If the Word of God is living and powerful, and if the Lord does all things whatsoever he wills; if he said, "Let there be light", and it happened; if he said, "let there be a firmament", and it happened; ...if finally the Word of God himself willingly became man and made flesh for himself out of the most pure and undefiled blood of the holy and ever Virgin, why should he not be capable of making bread his Body and wine and water his Blood?... God said, "This is my Body", and "This is my Blood."
The day of the Nativity of the Mother of God is a day of universal joy, because through the Mother of God, the entire human race was renewed, and the sorrow of the first mother, Eve, was transformed into joy.
He who does not believe according to the tradition of the Catholic Church is an unbeliever.
An angel is an intelligent essence, always in motion. It has free will, is incorporeal, serves God, and has been bestowed with immortality. Only the Creator understands its true nature.
To serve Mary and to be her courtier is the greatest honor we can possibly possess; for to serve the Queen of Heaven is already to reign there; and to live under her command is more than to govern.
Both angels and demons are ignorant of the future, yet they make predictions. The angels do so when God reveals the future to them and commands them to prophesy, and what they prophesy comes to pass. Demons also make predictions, but these are only guesses based on what they see from afar.
Because the one who by excellency of nature transcends all quantity and size and magnitude...has now...contracted himself into a quantity and size and has acquired a physical identity, do not hesitate any longer to draw pictures and to set forth, for all to see, him who has chosen to let himself be seen.
St Nicholas
"The giver of every good and perfect gift has called upon us to imitate God’s giving, by grace, through faith, and this is not of ourselves." - St. Nicholas of Myra
"Children, I beseech you to correct your hearts and thoughts, so that you may be pleasing to God. Consider that although we may reckon ourselves to be righteous and frequently succeed in deceiving men, we can conceal nothing from God. Let us therefore strive to preserve the holiness of our souls and to guard the purity of our bodies with all fervor. Ye are the temple of God, says the divine Apostle Paul; If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy." - St. Nicholas of Myra.
On many other occasions after his death as well as during his lifetime, Saint Nicholas has miraculously assisted ships in distress and people making voyages, and so is venerated as the protector of all who sail the seas. Thus, one day during a gale, he appeared at the helm of a ship in distress and brought it safely to port; and on another occasion, he rescued a passenger who fell overboard crying, “Saint Nicholas, help me!” and at once found himself at home surrounded by his astounded family.
St Ambrose
“No one heals himself by wounding another.”
“If you have two shirts in your closet, one belongs to you and the other to the man with no shirt.”
“Father, if possible, take away this cup from me." Many cling to this text to use the sadness of the Savior as proof that he had weakness from the beginning rather than taking it on for a time. In this way, they distort the natural meaning of the sentence. I, however, consider it not only as something that does not need to be excused but nowhere else do I admire his tender love and majesty. He would have given me less had he not taken on my emotions. Thus he suffered affliction for me, who did not have to suffer anything for himself. Setting aside the enjoyment of his divinity, he is afflicted with the annoyance of my weakness. He took on my sadness to bestow on me his joy. He descended into the anguish of death by following in our footsteps so that he might call us back to life by following in his footsteps. I do not hesitate to speak of sadness since I am preaching the cross; he took on not the appearance but the reality of the Incarnation. Thus, instead of avoiding it, he had to take on the pain to overcome sadness.”
“modesty, for that is the friend and ally of calmness of mind.”
“Death was not part of nature; it became part of nature. God did not decree death from the beginning; he prescribed it as a remedy. Human life was condemned because of sin to unremitting labour and unbearable sorrow, and so began to experience the burden of wretchedness. There had to be a limit to its evils; death had to restore what life had forfeited. Without the assistance of grace, immortality is more of a burden than a blessing.”
“Woman, the child of so many tears shall never perish.” ― St. Ambrose, spoken in response to Saint Monica, who begged for Ambrose’ help in the conversion of her son Augustine.
“The practice of perfect virtue does not require teaching, but instructs others.”
“If force is used, I cannot meet it. I shall be able to grieve, to weep, to groan; against weapons, soldiers, my tears are my weapons, for these are a priest's defence.”
THE POPE - Continuing serialisation of Pope Francis’ new Encyclican on the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 1436728697 -Neighborhood of St. Peter's Church in the Vatican from a flight - Photo Contributor: PaPicasso
FIRE
24. All that we have said has implications for the spiritual life.For example, the theology underlying the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius Loyola is based on “affection” (affectus).The structure of the Exercises assumes a firm and heartfelt desire to “rearrange” one’s life, a desire that in turn provides the strength and the wherewithal to achieve that goal.The rules and the compositions of place that Ignatius furnishes are in the service of something much more important, namely, the mystery of the human heart.Michel de Certeau shows how the “movements” of which Ignatius speaks are the “inbreaking” of God’s desire and the desire of our own heart amid the orderly progression of the meditations.Something unexpected and hitherto unknown starts to speak in our heart, breaking through our superficial knowledge and calling it into question.This is the start of a new process of “setting our life in order”, beginning with the heart.It is not about intellectual concepts that need to be put into practice in our daily lives, as if affectivity and practice were merely the effects of – and dependent upon – the data of knowledge.[16]
25. Where the thinking of the philosopher halts, there the heart of the believer presses on in love and adoration, in pleading for forgiveness and in willingness to serve in whatever place the Lord allows us to choose, in order to follow in his footsteps.At that point, we realize that in God’s eyes we are a “Thou”, and for that very reason we can be an “I”.Indeed, only the Lord offers to treat each one of us as a “Thou”, always and forever.Accepting his friendship is a matter of the heart; it is what constitutes us as persons in the fullest sense of that word.
26. Saint Bonaventure tells us that in the end we should not pray for light, but for “raging fire”.[17]He teaches that, “faith is in the intellect, in such a way as to provoke affection.In this sense, for example, the knowledge that Christ died for us does not remain knowledge, but necessarily becomes affection, love”.[18]Along the same lines, Saint John Henry Newman took as his motto the phraseCor ad cor loquitur, since, beyond all our thoughts and ideas, the Lord saves us by speaking to our hearts from his Sacred Heart.This realization led him, the distinguished intellectual, to recognize that his deepest encounter with himself and with the Lord came not from his reading or reflection, but from his prayerful dialogue, heart to heart, with Christ, alive and present.It was in the Eucharist that Newman encountered the living heart of Jesus, capable of setting us free, giving meaning to each moment of our lives, and bestowing true peace: “O most Sacred, most loving Heart of Jesus, Thou art concealed in the Holy Eucharist, and Thou beatest for us still…I worship Thee then with all my best love and awe, with my fervent affection, with my most subdued, most resolved will.O my God, when Thou dost condescend to suffer me to receive Thee, to eat and drink Thee, and Thou for a while takest up Thy abode within me, O make my heart beat with Thy Heart.Purify it of all that is earthly, all that is proud and sensual, all that is hard and cruel, of all perversity, of all disorder, of all deadness.So fill it with Thee, that neither the events of the day nor the circumstances of the time may have power to ruffle it, but that in Thy love and Thy fear it may have peace”.[19]
27. Before the heart of Jesus, living and present, our mind, enlightened by the Spirit, grows in the understanding of his words and our will is moved to put them into practice.This could easily remain on the level of a kind of self-reliant moralism.Hearing and tasting the Lord, and paying him due honour, however, is a matter of the heart. Only the heart is capable of setting our other powers and passions, and our entire person, in a stance of reverence and loving obedience before the Lord.
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 VINCENTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL - PROUD AND TRUE DIRECTORY
Dear St Vincent’s Parents and Caregivers,
Get Onboard!
After fantastic responses over the last few years, we are preparing for the St Vincent's Primary Proud & True Business Directory 2025 Edition.
If you have a small business, work for a small business, are a tradie and thinking about your marketing plans for the 2024/2025 Financial Year, you may like to take up a special offer to advertise to our broader school community in our St Vincent’s business directory.
Whether it’s as a landscaper, accountant, solicitor, plumber, electrician, coffee shop owner… just to name a few – this could be for you.
In Australia 86% of people rely on word-of-mouth recommendations! This is all our community businesses packaged into a one stop word of mouth shop.
Our parents and members of our broader school community want to support each other and ensure we are spending our money locally and helping businesses continue to operate and grow. The Proud & True Business Directory will be distributed widely to all staff and families at St Vincent’s.
If you would like to advertise your business in this directory, please contact Ben Ryan on 0432545995 or email ben@advcollab.com.au
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.
Surfer's Paradise Parish Mission Statement.
We, the Catholic community of Surfers Paradise, guided by the Holy Spirit, strive to live the mission of Jesus through the spirituality of stewardship.
We are all brothers and sisters in the family of God, and we believe in the inherent dignity, reverence and sanctity of all humans as lovingly created children of God.
Centred in the Eucharist and nourished by word and sacrament, we proclaim by faith and action the love of God for all.
We seek in our daily lives and actions, and in our wider community participation, to live consistently and practically each day of the week, what we proclaim in worship of God on Sundays.
In the spirit of gratitude, we live out this mission by
· Committing to be prayerful disciples of Jesus Christ.
· Recognising and sharing our gifts and talents.
· Active involvement in the life of the parish, for the sole purpose of promoting the honour and glory of God, through our care and love of our neighbour
· Hospitality, charity, justice and compassion in practical ways.
· Nurturing our young people.
