Friday, 22 November 2024

SPCP Newsletter: Sunday, 24 November 2024 – Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Year B

PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*: 

You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*

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Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish E-Newsletter

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -  https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding

This is Kombumerri Country, which is the traditional custodian of this region. (see here)

Parish Office (new): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 2 pm Mon-Fri) 

Email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au  | Website: www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au 

Emergencies: Priest contactable via office phone (after hours, follow the menu prompts)

50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland, 4226

Safeguarding officer -(Robyn Hunt) email=  lsr.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au  

https://tinyurl.com/SPCPsite 

THE MONTH OF HOLY SOULS


Sunday, 24 November 2024 


Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Year B

FIRST READING- Daniel 7:13-14

Psalm 93:1a, 1b-2, 5. “The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.”

SECOND READING- Revelation 1:5-8

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Mark 11:9,10). Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed is he who inherits the Kingdom of David, our father. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

GOSPEL - John 18:33-37


“ ‘I am the Alpha and the Omega,’ says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:8)

 

  

Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/8hi1MVh6X1ncR2RvPZiT?ru=Paul-Evangelion 


We congratulate the Bourhill, Waterford and Shelley families whose children, HANNAH, HUBERT and SIENNA & SAGE will be baptised in our Parish this week.  Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey.


ST VINCENT DE PAUL CHRISTMAS PLANNING AND FUNDRAISING 

SVDP Christmas Appeal Surfers Paradise Conference


As we all look towards the Advent season and prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, the Surfers Paradise St Vincent de Paul conference calls on all parishioners to help give hope to struggling local families. 


On the weekend of 23rd  & 24th November Vincentians will hand out scrolls 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 or 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)

PASTOR’S POST - 

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

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.  

NEW PRINCIPAL ANNOUNCED FOR ST VINCENT’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL - CLEAR ISLAND WATERS 


Our new principal for Saint Vincent’s Catholic parish, Clear Island Waters, has been announced. Mr Simon Miller. We congratulate Mr Miller and welcome him to our community, commencing January 2025. 

 


On behalf of the Executive Director, Dr Sally Towns and Parish Priest, Rev Paul Kelly, I am pleased to advise you of the appointment of Mr Simon Millar as Principal of St Vincent’s Primary School, Clear Island Waters, commencing January 2025.


Simon is currently the Principal at Galilee Regional Catholic Primary School, South Melbourne. Simon’s leadership experience includes Principal at St James Catholic Primary School, Brighton; Head of Primary and Head of Department at St Mary’s College, Broome; Deputy Principal and Curriculum Leader at St John’s Primary School, Frankston East.

Simon’s qualifications include Diploma of Primary Teaching, Bachelor of Education, Accreditation to teach Religious Education in a Catholic School and Master of Educational Leadership.


This appointment follows public advertising and a selection process 

involving Rev Fr Paul Kelly, Parish Priest of Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, representatives from the school community and Brisbane Catholic Education.


I take this opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution of Mr David Sewell and wish him well as he commences in his role of Senior Leader. Please join me in congratulating Simon on this appointment.

Regards, Anne McKenny. Senior Leader. Brisbane Catholic Education.


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Christ - King: 

It is fitting that on the last day of the church's liturgical year, we celebrate the feast of Christ the King. Jesus will finally take his place as the Ruler of all Creation, and all things will be placed under his authority. This, in a real sense, has already happened. The Reign of God is amongst us. But, at the end of time, the Reign of God will be established in its fullness, with all opposing powers defeated and banished.


Today in the Gospel, Jesus stands before us on Trial!  Pilate is questioning his apparent prisoner. Pontius Pilate's questions are arrogant and confident. He thinks that he is in control. However, we Christians have long been challenged to see beyond appearances into the truth behind it. Jesus is always in control, even a prisoner in chains. He is really and completely free. He is freer than anyone ever was, and binding him up will not stop this. Jesus is more free than Pilate, who wants to release Jesus but is scared of what others might think or say. Pilate is a prisoner, compromising the truth for political safety.


Jesus is not the only one on trial in the gospel. We are, too. Jesus' philosophy of life and our values (the values of the Gospel) are on trial too. We've all heard the saying: "nice people finish last" or "You have to break a few eggs to make an omelette (which is a nice way of saying that “to succeed in this world, it's okay to hurt, betray or back-stab the person next to you.” Or “All's fair in love and war” and "This isn't personal; it is just a financial decision"……. 


As Christians….. we are called to buy into a philosophy of life that does not come naturally…….It is this: Living authentically….. living according to truth and integrity is all that really matters. If we succeed at something by deception or hypocrisy, we are really losing. But let us be honest: this way of thinking will get us laughed at, and people will look at us and say, “How foolish, your integrity makes you a sitting duck, a lamb to the slaughter”. But we are in Good Company because that is exactly what Jesus is getting in the gospel. 


Pilate calls him a fool for pursuing this non-violent, passive resistance approach. "Don't you realise you're going to get yourself killed… and what good will come of your values then……". However, Jesus knew that if he compromised his principles to escape death, then all would be lost anyway. IS the message.  The ends do not justify the means, and they are part of the problem…..


Jesus tells us all…. The truth is all that matters…..  but Pilate has turned truth into a commodity to be bought and sold at will. Yet, we know that Jesus is the real truth. 

Can we dare to follow this radical King…….. the one whose way of thinking is not of this world?  We are risking everything…….  We risk “appearing to lose… to win the only thing that really matters”: the establishment of the Reign of God in its fullness… with Justice, peace, mercy and above all Love! 


Come, Lord Jesus!…… in all your fullness……Take your rightful place as King of Heaven and Earth!

Fr Paul 


NOVEMBER MASS ENVELOPES AND THE BOOK OF LIFE REMEMBRANCES 

When you place a request in a November Mass  Envelope for a Mass to be offered for your deceased loved ones, the priests will take these Special Intentions to the Masses they preside over. Names from November Mass Envelopes are not read out individually in the Prayer of the Faithful or mentioned individually at Mass by the Presider. The names that are listed in the Book of Life Remembrances are remembered as a group in the Prayer of the Faithful. All Masses in all Churches for November will be offered with the Souls of the Departed as their Special Intentions.

November Mass Envelopes, along with the Book of Life Remembrances, can be found at the back of all the Churches. These envelopes enable you to add the names of your deceased loved ones and friends.

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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'

2:00pm, 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) 


MESSAGE FROM MAJELLAN MEDIA: 

A ministry of the Redemptorists Religious Order of Oceania


United in Prayer: Supporting Survivors of Violence


Greetings 


As we approach the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November, it's a good time to reflect on the ongoing issue of violence against women and girls. Globally, nearly one in three women—about 736 million—have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in their lives. This statistic highlights the urgent need for us to come together to address and prevent such violence.


The United Nations points out that violence against women can take many forms, including intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. These acts not only violate basic human rights but also have serious psychological, physical, and social impacts on individuals and communities.


In the Scriptures, we find clear guidance against violence. Colossians 3:19 advises, "Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them." This verse reminds us of the importance of treating women with love, respect, and kindness, reflecting the broader biblical principle of valuing and honouring one another.


As a community committed to fostering love and respect, let's take this opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of violence against women. We encourage everyone to engage in conversations, support initiatives aimed at prevention, and advocate for policies that protect and empower women and girls.


We also invite you to join us in prayer for all those affected by violence. Let's pray for healing for survivors, strength for advocates, and wisdom for leaders to implement effective measures to combat this issue. Together, through awareness, action, and prayer, we can contribute to a world where every woman and girl lives free from violence and fear.


For more information and resources, please visit the United Nations' official page on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.


Peace


Tony


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


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 24 November.

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.


ANNUAL ROSIES VOLUNTEERS MASS AND COMMITMENT RITUAL                                                                                                                                                      



Fr Joshua Nash OMI, the Chaplain for Rosies Friends on the Street, celebrated Mass at St Vincent’s Church in Surfers Paradise last Sunday at the 10am Mass.  The Rosies Volunteers from across Queensland  who were at the Gold Coast for the annual “Schoolies” and some of the volunteers from the Gold Coast Outreaches attended the Mass to make their Annual Commitment to the Mission and Values of Rosies.  Volunteers from other organisations who were also attending Schoolies and the Schoolies themselves were invited to be part of the special blessing at the end of the Mass.  We are extremely grateful to our Parishioners and Visitors who were kind enough to donate towards the Rosies Mission at the end of this Mass and for how warmly you welcomed our volunteers.  Fr Josh celebrated a very inspirational Mass and broke open the Gospel message in a way that it fitted into our lives very well, particularly into the lives of all those who very generously give of their time to assist others in need.


BIRTHDAY

Happy birthday Mary Lepp - turning    !!!!!           So grateful for your presence.                                                                                                                                                                                                                      


CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM                                                                                          Coordinator: Cathy Anderson      andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au                                                                                                                                                      


2024 Enrolments for the Childhood Sacraments (Sacrament of Confirmation, Sacrament of Eucharist [First Holy Communion] and the Sacrament of Penance [Reconciliation]) have closed.              

2025 Enrolments for Childhood Sacramental Preparation are open. Dates for the Preparation and Celebration of Childhood Sacraments in Surfers Paradise Parish will be advertised in this newsletter from December this year. To enrol your child, please go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au  and hover the mouse over the word Sacraments (top of page) to reveal the menu. Choose the Sacrament name that your child is eligible to prepare for; click on that sacrament name. (The information on each Sacrament page will tell you if your child is eligible for that particular sacrament.)  On the sacrament page, click on the blue box with white writing -  CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM. Complete the form and click on SUBMIT. The form will then come to our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator and you will receive an automated reply. Check the newsletter regularly for Sacramental updates and information. For example, the newsletter will tell you when in 2025, you should expect to receive an email form our coordinator to begin the program.                                      



MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES

Sacred Heart 

50 Fairway Drive

Clear Island Waters, 4226

Saturday Night - 5 pm  (Note: Reconciliations from 4-4.30 pm at Sacred Heart)

  • (Maronite Mass, 6:30 pm, Saturday Night). 

*Note: First Saturday of the month, morning Mass, Adoration and Benediction:  

9 am 7th December 2024

Sunday - 9 am and 6 pm 

  • (Polish Mass 12:30 pm Sunday)

  • (Italian Mass 4 pm Sunday at Sacred Heart Church)

Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 a.m. 

(Healing masses resume the First Tuesday in February).

{First Friday Night of the Month -  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at Sacred Heart Church - First Fridays of the Month, from 7 pm to 8.30 pm.  All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch with Me for one hour?" Mt 26:40}.

St Vincent’s

36 Hamilton Avenue.

Surfers Paradise

4217

Sunday - 8 am & 10 am 

(Hispanic Mass – 5.30 pm every Sunday) 


Extra parking is available only metres from St Vincent’s Church, King’s Car Park, entry via Beach Road. Also available on Remembrance Drive opposite the church, next to the new Essentia Building.

Stella Maris 

254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, 4218

Saturday - 5 pm


Sunday  -   7 am 



Hispanic (Latino American) Mass: Fr. Syrilus Madin. 5:30 pm Mass - Every Sunday -  St Vincent’s Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise. Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au 


Polish Mass: Fr Jerzy Prucnal (Bowen Hills 3252 2200). 12:30 pm Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. Gold Coast Contact: George Syrek 0411 302 802 -

 

Italian Mass: Sunday, Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. For further information about the Italian Mass on the Gold Coast, please contact Fr Luis Antonio Diaz Lamus (Scalabrinian Missionary) at ladl71@hotmail.com  or Giovanna at gianna52@hotmail.com 


Maronite Mass: Fr Fadi Salame 0421 790 996. The 6.30 pm Maronite Saturday Vigil is at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.


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}.


IN OUR PRAYERS 

(Please contact us so we can keep these names up-to-date, and let us know when to remove the name from the list).

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, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Billy Webb


RECENTLY DECEASED:  (Chronological - Most recent first):

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, Peter Kane, Helen Nugent, Olympia Georgiou, Caroline Moulden, Frank Anthony Armanasco, Ma. Cristina Cruzada Lenihan, Colleen Williams, Merle Maiden, Bill Brewer, Damian Mullins.


ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical) 

All Holy Souls, including those in the Books of Remembrance.

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.

And Also: (Alphabetical):

Eve Barry, John Bastable, Arthur Bocking, Fr Harold Buckley, Guiseppe (Joe) Canavo, Maurice Cook, Dora Crisante, Alfred Desira, Eileen and John Dougherty, Fr Patrick Flanagan, John David Foulds, Lindsay Horne, Ian Richard Garrick Kentley, Marko Mazic, Irene Bridget McPhie, Paul Louis France Melanie, (Birthday anniversary of the late beloved Shirley O’Brien, Wayne Allan Pearce, Garry Edward Pearse, Grahame Roberts, Sidney James Slater, Sandra Smart, Remedios Solatan, Kelly Marie Sutherland, Jameal Tooma, Elizabeth Anne Topalov, Dr Rodney "Michael" Tracey, Giacomo (Jack) Ulliana, Bridget Weston, Anne Weston. 


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


NOTICES AND MESSAGES  - Our new parish number is 5671 7388 


RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES

The shops are well stocked for Christmas, with plentiful supplies of inexpensive Christmas gifts plus Christmas cards, Columban Calendars, and many new Christmas nativities.

A few copies of our Advent resource “HOPE REIGNS” still available at $5. per copy, your last chance to buy this wonderful reflection booklet for Advent.



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 

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:

25/11/24      Suzanne Joseph                   Robina

2/12/24         Suzanne Joseph                   Robina

9/12/24         Julio & Eileen Camera    Nerang

16/12/24       Julio & Eileen Camera    Nerang


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. 

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 


MARIAN PILGRIMAGE

Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church 13.11.2024 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost for the bus fare $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine on 0405 252 367 or 5529 1573, Chris Raynal 0451 302 674, all are welcome.


YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE


Prayer to Christ our Universal King and Salvation.


1. Come, Lord Jesus, to the manger;

May we see thy tender face?

Great Creator, here a stranger,

Infant in this humble place.

Darkness scatter, morning swell;

Come, dear Lord Immanuel.

Come, Lord Jesus, to the manger;

Come, Lord Jesus, come!


2. Come, Lord Jesus, to the wounded,

Broken heart and bended knee.

Worthy Lamb, thy love unbounded,

Bid our souls to rest in Thee.

Come in glory to the earth;

Come to us to rule and reign.

Ready us to kneel and greet thee;

Come, Lord Jesus, come!


3. Come, Lord Jesus, great Redeemer,

Light of morning from the East.

We will be Thy children ever;

Dry our tears, all weeping cease!

Come in glory to the earth;

Come to us to rule and reign.

Ready us to kneel and greet thee;

Come, Lord Jesus, come!

 

https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/year-of-prayer/  

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

Christ is King ... the faithful Witness.  He loves us... and made   us a line of priests, prophets, and kings to serve God his Father.  Who   are we to be called forth as the priest of tomorrow – prayerful men –   leaders, ready to preach the Word of God?

To testify to the truth; this is why Christ came, this is the mission of the priest and   religious. Has your life testified to the truth that Christ is King?

To talk to someone about your vocation,  contact  Vocation Brisbane:  1300 133 544.  vocation@bne.catholic.net.au  and www.vocationbrisbane.com     

STEWARDSHIP -  Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

“Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom does not belong to this world.” (JOHN 18:36)

Life is short. How much time, energy and money do you put into building “your” kingdom here on earth? We all know we can’t take it with us. The real kingdom is in the next life. Yet, how much time, energy and money do you invest in working for that eternal kingdom? Ask God for His guidance. Detach from earthly possessions. Generously share your material goods with others for the greater glory of God.

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  - By whose authority?

Every instance of bad leadership reinforces the vital importance of good leaders. In church and in government, at work and at home, we need people of wisdom and vision to take us into the future. Leaders must lead, not merely from a platform or agenda, but with a profound respect for the common good as an unshakable principle. Championing the common good makes families more holy, workplaces more just, societies more civil, and governments more noble. What kind of world do we want to live in? At what kind of authority will we bend our knees? “So Pilate said to him, ‘Then you are a king?’ ”








HOMILY: Christ the Universal King, Year B.

Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/Sj18n34cHvzAwx0YfxTu?ru=Paul-Evangelion 


Homily: Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.Year B - Sunday, 24 November 2024


It is perfectly fitting that on the last Sunday of the church's liturgical year (this Sunday!), we celebrate the feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe.


This celebration looks forward to the fact that ultimately, at the end of time, Our Lord Jesus will definitively take his place as the Ruler of all Creation. All things will be placed under his authority and power forever.


All things will be placed under his authority and power forever. In one sense, this has already begun. The reign of God is already here.


God's kingdom is already amongst us. The kingdom of God is already at work in us and around us. However, at the end of time, the reign of God will be established in its fullness, with any opposing powers comprehensively defeated and vanquished.


We know we still live in unsettled times, and there are still values that oppose Christ's gospel. Still, it's so wholly reassuring to have this message this weekend that the forces of violence, hatred, deception and injustice, which we don't underestimate, will ultimately be defeated but be put under Christ's feet and destroyed. Today in the gospel, Jesus is standing trial before Pontius Pilate. Pilate is questioning his apparent prisoner.


Pilate's questions are arrogant and confident. He thinks he's in control, but we Christians have long been challenged to see beyond appearances. We're invited to see the very truth behind the surface.


Christ is always in control, even though he seems to be the prisoner on trial for his life. Christ is a free person. Christ is more free than his gaoler - Pilate - by miles.

Pilate is rather keen to release Jesus but fears what other people might think and is scared of an insurrection. So, Pilate is the prisoner. Pilate compromises the truth for political expediency and binds himself up.


Jesus is the king of truth. He so authentically lives the fact that he lives according to integrity, and that's all that matters. If we succeed at something by deception, hypocrisy, or disregard for the dignity and welfare of others around us, we lose.


Pilate is virtually calling Christ a fool for pursuing this non-violent approach, this persistent preaching of the gospel. He's saying to him, do you realize you're going to get yourself killed and what good will come of your values then? Christ really confounds Pilate. He asks him to explain more and Christ, to the utter astonishment of Pilate, says nothing, remains utterly silent.


Pilate doesn't know what to make of this. But the truth is Jesus knew if he compromised his principles merely to try and avoid death or to avoid persecution or to prevent other people from being unhappy, then everything that was really important in life would be lost. Jesus' principles and their practical application is the true message and it was worth giving everything to preserve and to fulfil.


Christ stands firmly for the fact that the ends never justify the means. What we stand for is what we will die for. And in fact, how we get to the goal is part of the journey.


Jesus tells us that the truth is all that matters. However, Pilate has an answer for this. And what is truth? He says, he thinks he's being clever.


He, like so many, has turned truth into a commodity that can be bought and sold at will or changed to suit the person who's looking at it. Yet we know that truth is not a statement. Truth is a person.


Truth is a way of living. Jesus and his life and everything he stood for and taught is the truth. Can we dare to follow this radical king? The one whose way of thinking is certainly not of this world but is certainly intended to transform this world and change us and all the world around us.


True power, we know from Christ, is power for, power for others, not power over others. Instead of dominating and subduing people, true power is service, the leadership of service, which helps us to become truly the people of God that Jesus wants us to be. Christ has a vision for the people he created us to be.


There's a nice quote that I find very insightful. The writer Paul Tillich says, distrust every claim for truth where you do not see truth united with love and be certain that you are of the truth and that the truth has taken hold of you only when love has taken hold of you and has started to make you free from yourselves. I love the preface too of the Eucharistic prayer for this feast day today because it names the beautiful qualities to be found in Christ's kingdom which we celebrate today.


Christ's kingdom, which has already begun to take hold in our hearts and in our lives and worlds, is 

a kingdom of truth and life, 

a kingdom of holiness and grace, 

a kingdom of justice, love and peace. 

This week, my mind keeps returning to the concept of Jesus being the universal king and so we're not only his disciples and followers, we're also his subjects. What does it mean to be a loyal subject, a servant of the king? This puts our lives into a new perspective.


God's ways and values and priorities are about giving without expecting a return, loving without counting the cost. Come Lord Jesus, come Lord in all your fullness, take your rightful place as king of heaven and earth, lead us in the ways of your truth.

++

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    


JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

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.


PARISH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Your support is needed to help our Parish continue valuable pastoral activities and ensure ongoing sustainability. You can give here to assist you in supporting the Parish.     




If you can continue to support us, we would be most grateful. We thank all those who have been making payments via credit card and those who have donated directly to the parish account. The pay-wave or tap-and-go machines on the timber stands in our Churches are also a safe and handy way to donate to the Parish. God bless you for your support. If you want confirmation of your donation or a receipt emailed, please contact me at man.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au.  

To join planned giving, please contact the Parish Office: (07) 56717388 (9 am–2 pm Mon-Fri).

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES AVAILABLE 

FOR COLLECTION AT THE PARISH OFFICE


INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS: 

  • St Catherine of Alexandria

    • Text about St Catherine: - From this martyr’s uncommon knowledge, wisdom and learning, and the extraordinary spirit of piety by which she sanctified her learning, and the use she made of it, she is chosen in the schools the patroness and model of Christian philosophers. 

    • “If you are ruled by the mind you are king, if by the body you are a slave.”

    • Catherine was known for her beauty. One night, Catherine dreamed that she accompanied the hermit to a sanctuary, whence Angels came to meet her. She fell on her face before them, but one of the Angelic band bade her, "Rise, dear sister, Catherine, for the King of glory delighteth to honour thee." She rose and followed the Angels to the presence of the Queen of Heaven, who was surrounded by Angels and Saints and was beautiful beyond description. The Queen welcomed her and led her to her Divine Son, Our Lord. But He turned from her, saying: "She is not fair and beautiful enough for Me."  Catherine awoke at these words and wept bitterly until morning. She then sent for the hermit and inquired what would make her worthy of the Heavenly Bridegroom. The saintly recluse instructed her in the true Faith and, with her mother, she was Baptized. That night, in a dream, the Blessed Virgin and her Divine Son again appeared to her. Mary presented her to Jesus, saying: "Behold, she has been regenerated in the water of Baptism." Then Christ smiled at her and plighted His troth to her by putting a ring on her finger. When she awoke, the ring was still there, and thenceforth, Catherine despised all earthly things and longed only for the hour when she should go to her Heavenly Bridegroom.


  • Saint Andrew, the apostle: 

    • Mark 1:16-20 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of people.”


THE POPE - Continuing serialisation of Pope Francis’ new Encyclican on the Sacred Heart of Jesus


 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 620880065. ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Pope Francis, Jorge Mario Bergoglio is the 266th and current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, the basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, Rome on September 05, 2016.Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Zvonimir Atletic

 

THE HEART UNITES THE FRAGMENTS


17. At the same time, the heart makes all authentic bonding possible, since a relationship not shaped by the heart is incapable of overcoming the fragmentation caused by individualism.Two monads may approach one another, but they will never truly connect.A society dominated by narcissism and self-centredness will increasingly become “heartless”.This will lead in turn to the “loss of desire”, since as other persons disappear from the horizon we find ourselves trapped within walls of our own making, no longer capable of healthy relationships.[14]As a result, we also become incapable of openness to God.As Heidegger puts it, to be open to the divine we need to build a “guest house”.[15]


18. We see, then, that in the heart of each person there is a mysterious connection between self-knowledge and openness to others, between the encounter with one’s personal uniqueness and the willingness to give oneself to others.We become ourselves only to the extent that we acquire the ability to acknowledge others, while only those who can acknowledge and accept themselves are then able to encounter others.


19. The heart is also capable of unifying and harmonizing our personal history, which may seem hopelessly fragmented, yet is the place where everything can make sense.The Gospel tells us this in speaking of Our Lady, who saw things with the heart.She was able to dialogue with the things she experienced by pondering them in her heart, treasuring their memory and viewing them in a greater perspective.The best expression of how the heart thinks is found in the two passages in Saint Luke’s Gospel that speak to us of how Mary “treasured (synetérei) all these things and pondered (symbállousa) them in her heart” (cf.Lk2:19 and 51).The Greek verbsymbállein, “ponder”, evokes the image of putting two things together (“symbols”) in one’s mind and reflecting on them, in a dialogue with oneself.In Luke 2:51, the verb used isdietérei, which has the sense of “keep”.What Mary “kept” was not only her memory of what she had seen and heard, but also those aspects of it that she did not yet understand; these nonetheless remained present and alive in her memory, waiting to be “put together” in her heart.


20. In this age of artificial intelligence, we cannot forget that poetry and love are necessary to save our humanity.No algorithm will ever be able to capture, for example, the nostalgia that all of us feel, whatever our age, and wherever we live, when we recall how we first used a fork to seal the edges of the pies that we helped our mothers or grandmothers to make at home. It was a moment of culinary apprenticeship, somewhere between child-play and adulthood, when we first felt responsible for working and helping one another.Along with the fork, I could also mention thousands of other little things that are a precious part of everyone’s life: a smile we elicited by telling a joke, a picture we sketched in the light of a window, the first game of soccer we played with a rag ball, the worms we collected in a shoebox, a flower we pressed in the pages of a book, our concern for a fledgling bird fallen from its nest, a wish we made in plucking a daisy.All these little things, ordinary in themselves yet extraordinary for us, can never be captured by algorithms.The fork, the joke, the window, the ball, the shoebox, the book, the bird, the flower: all of these live on as precious memories “kept” deep in our heart.


21. This profound core, present in every man and woman, is not that of the soul, but of the entire person in his or her unique psychosomatic identity.Everything finds its unity in the heart, which can be the dwelling-place of love in all its spiritual, psychic and even physical dimensions.In a word, if love reigns in our heart, we become, in a complete and luminous way, the persons we are meant to be, for every human being is created above all else for love.In the deepest fibre of our being, we were made to love and to be loved.


22. For this reason, when we witness the outbreak of new wars, with the complicity, tolerance or indifference of other countries, or petty power struggles over partisan interests, we may be tempted to conclude that our world is losing its heart.We need only to see and listen to the elderly women – from both sides – who are at the mercy of these devastating conflicts.It is heart-breaking to see them mourning for their murdered grandchildren, or longing to die themselves after losing the homes where they spent their entire lives.Those women, who were often pillars of strength and resilience amid life’s difficulties and hardships, now, at the end of their days, are experiencing, in place of a well-earned rest, only anguish, fear and outrage.Casting the blame on others does not resolve these shameful and tragic situations.To see these elderly women weep, and not feel that this is something intolerable, is a sign of a world that has grown heartless.


23. Whenever a person thinks, questions and reflects on his or her true identity, strives to understand the deeper questions of life and to seek God, or experiences the thrill of catching a glimpse of truth, it leads to the realization that our fulfilment as human beings is found in love.In loving, we sense that we come to know the purpose and goal of our existence in this world.Everything comes together in a state of coherence and harmony.It follows that, in contemplating the meaning of our lives, perhaps the most decisive question we can ask is, “Do I have a heart?” 


LINKS & RESOURCES

Liturgy for you at Home (produced by SPP): https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

Weekly Homily (produced by SPP): https:- homilycatholic.blogspot.com

Surfers Paradise Parish Facebook: https:- www.facebook.com/surferscatholic/

Breaking Parish News (SPP Blog):  https:- news-parish.blogspot.com/

EthicsFinder is a free, global, digital resource of immense value to interested parishioners. Try ACU’s free digital tool, www.ethicsfinder.com


Readings for next weekend- Readings for First Sunday Advent. Year C 

FIRST READING: Jer 33: 14-16

Ps: Ps 25: 4-5, 8-9, 10+14 “To you O Lord I lift my soul”

SECOND READING: 1 Thess 3: 12–4: 2

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Ps 85: 8): Alleluia, alleluia! Lord, show us your mercy and love, and grant us your salvation. Alleluia!

GOSPEL: Luke 21: 25-28, 34-36


FAITH AND WORSHIP - A THOUGHT ON SAINTS AND HOLY SOULS MONTH 

“The Defects of the Saints”: 

You may find the above title shocking. It is based on the book of Fr. Jesus Urteaga (1921-2009) with the same title. You may ask, are saints not all-holy and without defects?

Saints were not born with a halo. Like every one of us, saints had their weaknesses, failures, sins, and shortcomings. What then made them saints? Their struggle. When they sinned, they went to confession, sincerely remorse and admitted their sins. When they fell, they stood up without giving up.  Like those known saints, we cannot avoid struggling and, like them, conquer our weaknesses in the end. 

 

Fr. Urteage says, “returning to our God once, twice …always; has made saints of ordinary mortals like us.”  St. Josemaria Escriva writes, “Don’t forget that the saint is not the person who never falls, but rather the one who never fails to get up again, humbly and with a holy stubbornness.”  Looking at Pope Francis’s teaching on holiness in his apostolic exhortation ‘Gaudete et Exsultate’, he wrote that God wants us to be saints and we must strive to be one.  Despite our weakness and sinfulness, the Pope urged us to look on the crucified Christ and beg Him to “work the miracle of making us a little bit better.”

 

Holiness then is not just for a few but for everyone, and that it is possible to attain, even in this day and age. As St. Paul wrote, “God wants everybody to become holy.”  When God wants something, we have no right to say, ‘impossible.’  He provides the means to reach this goal e.g. the Eucharist, the sacrament of reconciliation, reading and meditating on the Word of God, praying regularly, devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and avoiding persons, places, and things that cause us to sin.

 

The feast of all saints of the Church, known and unknown, provides an opportunity to reflect on the nature of sainthood and humbly beg on Mary’s intercession to help us walk with Jesus toward holiness.  And by God’s grace, we too will grow in holiness, and one day join the saints in our heavenly homeland. … 

 

Article from “Nagasaki Franciscan”  at Facebook - Nagasaki Franciscan   


{https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=934062000796187&id=100025771866479&set=a.103449607190768&source=48 } 


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 



Safeguarding Framework

“The Church loves all her children like a loving mother, but cares for all and protects with a special affection those who are smallest and defenceless. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community.”

– Apostolic Letter issued ‘motu proprio’ by the Supreme Pontiff Francis 4 June 2016




Purpose

The purpose of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework is to promote a culture of safeguarding within the Archdiocese and reduce the risks of abuse and harm.

Scope

The Safeguarding Framework applies to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Brisbane.


The framework applies to all Archdiocesan workers.

Framework

National Catholic Safeguarding Standards

The Archdiocese adopts and adheres to the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards. The Standards apply to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop.

Commitment Statement

The Archdiocese has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and is committed to safeguarding everyone involved in its activities, ministries, and services.


The safety and well-being of children and adults-at-risk is paramount.

Safeguarding Principles

The following principles guide safeguarding practice in the Archdiocese:

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility.

Everyone who interacts with the Archdiocese is treated with dignity and respect.

The protection and best interests of children and adults at risk are prioritised.

Safe physical and online environments are provided.

Safeguarding and abuse risks are actively identified and managed.

Compliance with safeguarding standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines is monitored.

Abuse concerns, suspicions, disclosures, allegations, reports and incidents are responded to promptly and effectively.

All statutory obligations to report suspected abuse or harm are complied with.

Safeguarding Governance    -Monitoring and Compliance

The Archdiocese of Brisbane is committed to continuous improvement of its safeguarding practice, and compliance with the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards is monitored through a program of internal and external auditing.

Non-compliance with this framework, which seriously jeopardises the safety and wellbeing of others, will be reported to the Vicar General and may be grounds for disciplinary action resulting in dismissal or termination of employment and reporting to church and/or statutory authorities.

Download a copy of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework

For more information about the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework, contact the Office for Safeguarding Services at safeguarding@bne.catholic.net.au  

or on 07 3324 3752.

 https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/  

 - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -    

See also this video on safeguarding -   https://youtu.be/8AASkl-Sr1A?si=OF6XwqzagYt5fF9d 

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -   https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/

Safeguarding Officer (relating to child safety and adults at risk) Robyn Hunt Safeguarding officer - contact lsr.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au 

Safeguarding  (Children and adults-at-risk)- 

StopLine - The Archdiocese of Brisbane Whistleblower Hotline 1300 30 45 50


Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -   https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/

  • Safeguarding Officer - Surfers Parish - (relating to child safety and adults at risk) Robyn Hunt Safeguarding officer - contact lsr.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au  - phone - 0409 486 326 

Safeguarding Officer
Safeguarding Officer - Surfers Paradise Parish - Robyn Hunt





Each Parish in the Archdiocese of Brisbane has a Local Safeguarding Representative who is responsible for:

  1. Making sure that the whole parish is aware of the importance of safeguarding children and adults at risk.

  2. Promoting safe practices, including articulating for others what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, and

  3. 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:


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


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