PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*:
You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
“His mother treasured all these things in her heart.” (Luke 2:51)
Stella Maris Church is closed until further notice due to urgent ceiling repairs. All Stella Maris, Broadbeach, Masses are cancelled. We are putting on a special 7am Mass at Sacred Heart Clear island waters on Sunday mornings for the duration of the closure.
A Blessed, Happy and Healthy Christmas Season.
And a grace-filled New Year, filled with blessings and wonderful opportunities. May God bless you and guide you through the coming year.
PASTOR’S POST
Hello everyone, and happy Christmas season… I hope you have been having a peaceful and blessed Christmas.
The Christmas season is not just one day. It is an "Octave"… Eight days that allow us to more deeply experience the joys and significance of this great feast of Christ's birth. God made flesh and living among us. And what better feast than today's celebration, which is very fitting within this Octave of Christmas? It is the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
This holy family had real difficulties and hardships throughout their lives, and their prayers and example help us today as we are inspired by their constant response to God of profound faith, hope and love.
Fr Paul.
The Parish Office is closed during this time.
We will reopen Monday 6th January.
In cases of emergency
please phone the Parish Office
telephone number (07) 56 717388 and follow the prompts.
MASS FOR THE 1ST OF JANUARY 2025 - SOLEMNITY OF MARY THE MOTHER OF GOD.
9 am at Sacred Heart church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. Queensland 4226
To listen to the Mass of 1st January 2025- please visit:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity/s-wO3xsh0z8Km
Urgent news -
Sadly - Stella Maris Church - Broadbeach - has had a major incident -
Panels from the inner ceiling of the church, have fallen down inside the church.
The Stella Maris Church is now closed until further notice - for repairs and safety assessment of the whole ceiling. This could take several weeks.
There will be no masses this weekend at the Broadbeach church, or in the future, until the problem is resolved.
Our apologies for any inconvenience. Fortunately this happened during the night when the church was closed, and after the busy Christmas period.
All Stella Maris, Broadbeach, Masses are cancelled.
However,
We are putting on a special 7am Mass at Sacred Heart Clear island waters on Sunday mornings for the duration of the closure.
Please let anyone know who might not receive this message.
Also, subscribing to this email list also ensures that when urgent matters occur we can swiftly send out a message to keep parishioners informed. We encourage parishioners to stay subscribed to this service.
Sincerely, Fr Paul.
SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD –
(Year: A-B-C) - The First of January 2025.
Image Credit: ID: Virgin Mary of Jerusalem. - Icon, in gold and silver.
SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD –(1/1/2025)
First Reading: Numbers 6:22-27
Psalm: Ps 66:2-3. 5. 6. 8. "May God bless us in his mercy."
Second Reading: Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel Acclamation: Hebrews 1:1-2. Alleluia, alleluia! In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; now he speaks to us through his Son. Alleluia.
Gospel: Luke 2:16-21
+++++
MASS FOR THE 1ST OF JANUARY 2025 - SOLEMNITY OF MARY THE MOTHER OF GOD.
9 am at Sacred Heart church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. Queensland 4226
To listen to the Mass of 1st January 2025- please visit:
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-solemnity/s-wO3xsh0z8Km
+++
Homily for 1st January 2025 - Solemnity of Mary the Holy Mother of God:
Another calendar year has begun!
How these years seem to fly!!! Nevertheless, its really good at the start of a new year to give thanks for what has been and all that is to come…. And dedicate ourselves, and this new year, (first and foremost) to God and God’s blessed Kingdom.
May this new year be filled with countless blessings and graces.
We give thanks today to our Lord for so many gifts we receive each and every day, the gift of life, the gift of family, friends, parishioners and our community. We have so much to thank and praise our Lord for as we begin a new year of opportunities.
We dedicate this new year to the Lord, so this is truly, in every sense of the word, the Year of the Lord 2025.
May our thoughts, words and efforts all be directed to the Lord's vision of the world and the Kingdom of God. At the very start of a new calendar year, we say to the Lord, all things we've done pleasing to you in the last year, we offer to you in love and gratitude.
All things we're about to do that are pleasing to you, we offer it humbly and with love. Anytime we've acted contrary to your will in the past, we are truly sorry, Lord, and ask your mercy and pardon. May we redirect our efforts in your gracious guidance to build up your Kingdom of love and mercy, justice and care.
This new year, O Lord, we accept from you as a pure gift. We desire not to waste this precious time, nor take it for granted, but to savour it and make use of it for all that you desire, loving God. We offer you our work and our efforts, recognising this to be a time filled with graced opportunities to praise you and love you and show our love for you by how we treat one another, especially those most in need.
An anonymous college student composed a poem that reads: "Today I saw a water lily growing in a pond, (the waterlily was entirely) unconcerned about whether anyone noticed its astounding beauty. As I sat there, watching it unfold its petals noiselessly, I thought of Mary pregnant with Jesus. She, too, was unconcerned about whether anyone noticed her astounding beauty. But to those who did, she shared a secret. That beauty came not from herself, but from Jesus’ life unfolding its noiseless petals within her."
Mary allowed the astounding grace and beauty of God to shine through her to such a perfect extent that God became flesh and dwelled among us through her cooperation….
The student's poem invites us to ask: “What is one way I might allow more fully and deeply for Jesus life to unfold within me this year?
Another quote comes to mind at the start of this new year…. “Be careful how you live; you may be the only Bible some person ever reads.” W. J. TOMS
Mary is the perfect example of perfect discipleship and a being an utterly superb model of faith, joy, humility, a love of justice, a concern for the poor, and complete trust in God. What a perfect lady to ask for her intercession to her beloved Son, our Lord Jesus, as we begin this new year. I think of two things particularly that strike me from the readings today.
One is the reference which is mentioned a few key times in the Gospel of Luke. Our Lady treasured these things in her heart. She pondered these things.
May we treasure everything that happens to us too. Our Lady pondered and treasured everything. When something wonderful happened, she treasured it in her heart.
When something confusing or upsetting happened, she pondered it in her heart. When something unexpected or sad occurred, she stored it in in everything, meditating on God's Word and reflecting on the mystery of God's faithful plan for the world and for her. Even if it was beyond her understanding, she continued to treasure it and meditate on it.
Because Mary, the Mother of God, is our intercessor ands inspiration… let us meditate as we travel through these coming months….
“What would our Blessed Mother do in difficult situations? How would she speak both lovingly, honestly, challengingly, constructively and wisely, but always with love and faith? The saints of the Church and the esteemed teachers within the Church throughout history have reflected upon the importance of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Saint Francis de Sales writes, let us run to Mary and as her little children cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence. Saint Jerome says, even while living in this world, the heart of Mary was so filled with motherly tenderness and compassion for men that no one ever suffered so much for their own pains as Mary suffered for the pains of her children. That's beautiful.
Saint Thomas Aquinas says, just as seafarers are guided into port by the shining of a star, so Christians are guided to heaven by Mary.
The beautiful Saint Therese of Lisieux writes, in trial or difficulty I have recourse to Mother Mary, whose glance alone is enough to dissipate every fear.
The world – even moreso over recent years has been suffering dreadful violence, war and injustice, and our hearts break when we think of this. We also think of tragic disasters, natural as well as human-made, and we ask the Blessed Mother of God to pray to her Son on behalf of us for the gift of peace in the world and in the hearts and minds and decisions of people everywhere, including its leaders.
As that wonderful Hymn says so beautifully - “Lord, let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me”
Have a blessed and grace-filled year, and we also pray now and throughout this year, ………..
Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.
+++
Fr Paul Kelly (2025)
Reference: Mark Link SJ. – Vision – Praying Scripture in a contemporary Way.
+++
To tune in to The Our parish Podcast of the Mass for Sundays and Solemnities, please visit regularly the following link: 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
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ENCOUNTER KIDS SUMMER HOLIDAY PROGRAM For children from Surfers Paradise Parish and children visiting Surfers Paradise in January 2025 - The Encounter Kids Summer Holiday Program is a 1 day event for primary school aged children (Prep - Grade 6) across 5 locations across the Archdiocese of Brisbane. With the theme Eyes of the Prize these days are filled with fun, games, activities and engaging messages and prayers designed to give children a positive and powerful experience of the Catholic faith. Find more information at encountercatholickids.com.au/summer-holiday-program
Nearest venue to Surfers Paradise is the Coomera venue - St Mary’s Catholic Parish, 185 Billinghurst Crescent, Upper Coomera.
9:00am - 3:00pm (Supervision 8:30 - 5:00pm)
BRAINWAVES SURFING
As the Gold Coasts' first inclusive surf school, we proudly create a safe and supportive environment for all levels, ages and abilities.
Our mission is to share the joy of surfing with everyone, breaking barriers and fostering a sense of community.
https://www.brainwavessurfing.com/
https://www.brainwavessurfing.com/
Liturgy News:
Your free copy of Liturgy News - a Catholic Liturgy magazine from Brisbane, is now available for you to download here - https://www.liturgybrisbane.net.au/media/wtmpukzo/ln244-liturgy-news-december-summer-2024.pdf
Happy Christmas reading!
Vanuatu Earthquake Appeal
Vanuatu has experienced two earthquakes within 24 hours impacting over 116,000 people and causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The main hospital in Port Vila has sustained extensive damage and is overwhelmed by the mass causalities.
There are hundreds of people have been injured or trapped under rubble and at least 14 people deceased with the death toll expected to continue to rise. People remain fearful of further disaster, as Vanuatu is one of the most susceptible countries to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding, and tsunamis.
This appeal will provide support to our on the ground partners who are ready to respond to the humanitarian requirements by providing emergency shelter, food and other essentials, psychosocial support, and recovery efforts.
Please Donate today: http://www.caritas.org.au/vanuatu
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.
{https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en/pellegrinaggio/calendario-giubileo.html}
Jubilee 2025
Vatican issues clarification on Holy Doors during 2025 Jubilee:
The Vatican's Dicastery for Evangelization issues a clarifying note regarding the 2025 Jubilee, specifying that Holy Doors will only be open at the four Papal Basilicas in Rome and in one prison.
The opening dates for the Holy Doors during the 2025 Jubilee are:
St. Peter's Basilica: Opens on December 24, 2024 at 7 PM
Pope Francis will open a special Holy Door in Rome's Rebibbia prison on Dec. 26, the feast day of St. Stephen.
San Giovanni in Laterano: Opens on December 29, 2024
Santa Maria Maggiore: Opens on January 1, 2025
St Paul Outside the Walls: Opens on January 5, 2025
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, 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 Italy
Would 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 2025. 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.
+++++
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, 3/1/2025, 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 4/1/2025. 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, Gerard Carroll, Nadia Ceh, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Shirley Croft, Christopher Cunningham, Mary Curmi, Bernie Delaney, Christopher Eid, John Fox, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Mary Hirst, Andrew Janiec, Jenny Johnson, Kevin & Francis Junee, Sr Elisabeth Keane, Leona Kelly, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Robert Lahey, Dannielle Therese Larney, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, Ron McConnell, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Angela Micallef, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Frances Much, 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.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Erin Stein, Louis Smith, Daniel Ramos (USA), Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier, Eileen Edmonds, Waltraud Barbara Nagy, Barry Collins, Pauline Gates, Paul Douglas, Clare D'Arcy, Simon Cruickshank, Antonio Risotto, Angela D’Rozario.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Mark Addison, Victor Paul Aguggia, Santo Auteri, Jim Lepanto Avuri, Stephen James Baker, Fr James Brosnan, Patricia Anne Burton, Kevin Patrick Carmody, Maurie Cass and Monica Cass, Sharon Cass-Edwards, Fr Patrick Coleman, Ralph Colomb, Ms Lesley Court, Merv Cross, Anthony Jorris D’Cruz, Fr Martin Doyle, Pavo Dronjic , Lionel Stanley Duggan, Alec Edwards, Fr Michael Egan, Patricia Gado, Michael Joseph George, Norma Heather, Bill Heather, Fr Pat (Doc) Kenny, John William Maddocks, Brian J Maher, Gregory Robert Mahoney, Ellice Mayhew, Fr Patrick McHugh, John Francis Moore , Dalibor Novak, Noreen Jessie Patterson, Nora and Harold Stanley Ragan, Caterina Di Losa (Cathy) Randazzo, Alan James Russo, Rodolfo Solatan, Zora Spiranovic, Mariette Anna Stradiotto-Alda, Dolly Tan, Bp John Torpie, Kenneth Alfred Walker, Marian Virginia Ware, Fr William Whelan, Kevin Wills, Janet Anne Winks, Margaret Wotherspoon.
And Also: (Alphabetical): Dell Emma Bloomfield, Joan Sadie Brown, John-Paul Camilleri, Fr Vincent Carroll, Carmen de Celis, Joseph (Joe) Che, Mr Vivian David (Viv) Cogar, Mons Daniel Cremin, Fr Patrick Doyle, Caridad Duazo, Teresa Duffy , Dorothy “Dolly” Dyer, Johan (John) Egner, Percy Felsman, Maureen Fitzgerald, Paul Thomas Grennan, Herta Haselhorst, Fr Francis Hefferan, Sue Hewitt, Marian Howell, Trevor Jones, Ferdinand Paul (Paul) Kiely, Neil Davey Lawrence, Betty Lloyd, Bill Magno, John Brian McCabe, Patricia Nolan, Jack O'Brien, Fr Thomas O'Callaghan, Fr Daniel O'Hare, Fr Denis Power, Robert Henry Rathborne, Mons Cornelius Roberts, Imelda Mary Rundell, Mary Ann “Annie” Scicluna, Maria Sidic, Ernest Vincent (Vin) Smith, Stephen “Taity” Tait, Robert John (Bob) Thorburn, Penny Natalie Woodman.
FATIMA FEAST AT MARIAN VALLEY
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church 13.01.2025Our 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.
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
Columban calendars $10
Scroll calendars - Our Lady of Lourdes, Serenity Prayer and Holy Family $10
Plus many delightful religious items to cherish in your home.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray the Stations of the Cross, Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at 8:00a.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, 3/01/25, 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, 4/01/25. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP (In Recess - Resumes 29th 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- (In Recess - Resumes on 13th January)
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.
MARIAN VALLEY PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church 13.01.2025 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.
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE -
(In Recess - 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:
30/12/24 Merla & Rodney Antony
6/01/25 Maxine & Patrick Sela
13/01/25 Maxine & Patrick Sela
20/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
27/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
We are having a Christmas - New Year break.
The Parish Office will reopen Monday 6th January.
In cases of emergency
please phone the Parish Office
telephone number (07) 56 717388 and follow the prompts.
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
(In Recess - 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. - (In Recess - 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 (In Recess - 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 April 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
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.
A VOCATION VIEW:
God continues to send messengers to announce good news. Listen so you can tell the story to others. (Luke 2:15-20)
Jesus grew in wisdom, age, and grace amid his family. How is your family growing during these challenging times? Seek out God’s grace. (Luke 2:41-52)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” (1 John 3:1)
During this season of giving, let us remember a beautiful gift that we have received – being children of God! As God’s children, it’s in our DNA that we share and express our love for others as well. Tell your spouse, children, other family members and friends that you love them, every day! Also, pray for those people that are different than you, those that you may not like or those that go out of their way to annoy you. Your prayers may be the start of a new friendship.
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 -
WORD OF THE WEEK
Jubilee Year :
Derived from the Hebrew for a year of freedom from enslavement since 1300, the term for a Holy Year to grant spiritual benefits to pilgrims to Rome and other faithful participants around the world. In recent times, Jubilees have been celebrated every 25 years unless circumstances warrant a special observance. Jubilees begin in December with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's and other major basilicas in Rome.
CONTEXT
The build-up of personal and collective debt . . . should have sent warning signals to anyone familiar with the biblical institutions of the Sabbatical and Jubilee years, created specifically because of the danger of people being trapped by debt. —Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
Pilgrimage is of course a fundamental element of every Jubilee event. Setting out on a journey is traditionally associated with our human quest for meaning in life. —Pope Francis
WHY IT MATTERS
Jubilee years are opportunities for conversion to a deeper journey in faith. The six themes of Jubilee 2025—care for creation, food poverty, modern slavery, managing debt, forgiveness, and rest—provide critical avenues for our participation as "Pilgrims of Hope" for our world, which can use our compassionate care.
From the Jubilee 2025 papal bull Spes non confundit: “The Jubilee reminds us that the goods of the earth are not destined for a privileged few, but for everyone. The rich must be generous and not avert their eyes from the faces of their brothers and sisters in need.”
RELATED WORDS
Holy Year | Holy Door | Basilica | Pilgrimage
---------------------------------------------
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
---------------------------------------------
What is a Jubilee Year and a Holy Year?
The Jubilee is a product of Jewish biblical law. Every 50th year, the land was to "rest," or lie unused for planting. Debts were forgiven and slaves were set free. These practices had a theological agenda: to acknowledge that land, property, and life belong ultimately to God, not to the human user. The spirit of Jubilee was adopted by Catholics when the first Holy Year was inaugurated in 1300. It too is a time of liberation. The pope offers spiritual indulgences for pilgrims to Rome. Other religious activities are assigned similar benefits for those unable to travel. The Holy Year begins on Christmas Eve with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Other Roman basilicas have doors opened to encourage pilgrimage. Bishops worldwide are invited to designate similar doors through which pilgrims can walk. Religious educators may ritually open a door for their students to instruct them about the purpose of the Holy Year. All of us should eagerly seek the occasion to walk through such a door and to become ourselves pilgrims of hope.
—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics Ask:
--------------------------------------------------
REFLECTION OF THE WEEK
--------------------------------------------------
OCTAVE DAY OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD; SOLEMNITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, THE MOTHER OF GOD (JANUARY 1)
Ring in the news
The birth of a much-awaited child is a joyous occasion. Such was the case when the shepherds found that Mary had given birth to a baby, who was to change the world! The shepherds were the bearers of the exciting news. Meanwhile for Mary, the birth was another step in a very personal journey with God. She was the bearer of God’s Word—Love—made flesh for the sake of the world.
Readings: Numbers 6:22-27; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21 (18: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010125.cfm). “The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem.”
FAITH IN ACTION
As we move into the New Year, how will we, like the shepherds and Mary, be bearers of the Good News?
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:
St Sylvester I -(Pope who approved the decisions of the Council of Nicea)
Nicean Creed: I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him, all things were made. For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins, and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
Mary, Mother of the Church. Memorial.
Celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost, considered the Church's birthday. Commemorates Mary's motherhood of the Church rather than Mary as Mother of God (January 1). Ancient roots in Catholic tradition date back to Augustine and Leo and Great. Inscribed into the General Roman Calendar by Pope Francis in 2018.
"And Mary said, 'Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.' And the angel departed from her."- Luke 1:38
"His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do [it]."- John 2:5
"And Mary said, 'My soul glorifies the Lord.'"- Luke 1:46-55
"O sinner, be not discouraged but have recourse to Mary in all your necessities. Call her to your assistance, for such is the divine Will that she should help in every kind of necessity."- Saint Basil the Great
"If you invoke the Blessed Virgin when you are tempted, she will come at once to your help, and Satan will leave you."- Saint John Vianney
"If you ever feel distressed during your day, call upon our Lady, just say this simple prayer: 'Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now.' I must admit, this prayer has never failed me."- Blessed Mother Teresa
"Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence."- Saint Francis de Sales
"The Son of God became man for our salvation but only in Mary and through Mary."- Saint Louis Marie de Montfort
The Most Holy Name of Jesus.
Commemorated by religious orders since the 16th century, the feast was extended to the Universal Church in 1721 and celebrated in the context of the Christmas season. The monogram IHS was popular in the late medieval and baroque periods. By the Holy Name, Christians honour the person of Jesus, their Lord and Saviour. At the name of Jesus, every knee should bend… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil 2:10).
(Children and adults-at-risk)- The Archdiocese of Brisbane Whistleblower Hotline 1300 30 45 50
THE POPE -
What the Pope Says:
“No vocation is born of itself or lives for itself. A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people. Did not Jesus say: “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (Jn 13:35)
Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis WORLD DAY FOR CONSECRATED LIFE, 2021-
This is the reason for our hope: that God never tires of waiting for us. When we turn away, he comes looking for us; when we fall, he lifts us to our feet; when we return to him after losing our way, he waits for us with open arms. His love is not weighed in the balance of our human calculations, but unstintingly gives us the courage to start anew. This teaches us resilience, the courage always to start again, each day. Always to start over after our falls. God is patient.
Source: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2021/documents/papa-francesco_20210202_omelia-vitaconsacrata.html
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2453188735 - Rome Italy 24 3 2024: Pope Francis Photo Contributor -Fabrizio Maffei
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/)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
** The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 25”
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, Balthasar and Melchior, the three Wise Men. CMB is also the initials of the Latin phrase “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling place.”
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ST VINCENTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL - PROUD AND TRUE DIRECTORY
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
SYNOD 24 - ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE - ACTION PLANS
BASED ON THE PLENARY COUNCIL DECREES
The Action Plans for the 8 Decrees that came out of the National Catholic Plenary Council initially, which we as a Parish participated in very enthusiastically, have now been through the process of SYNOD 24 for the Archdiocese of Brisbane and can be found by clicking on the link below or for those of us who are challenged in this area, we have also repeated below. We look forward to your respectful comments and meaningful discussion as to how we as a Parish go forward. Remembering we cannot do everything but can take one small step at a time. Once again we will call on the Holy Spirit to guide our decision making.
Synod24-Decrees-Document-web.pdf
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 1 - HEALING WOUNDS, RECEIVING GIFTS
The focus here is on the need for a new engagement of the Church with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, beginning with a new kind of listening in the belief that we all can and must learn from the first inhabitants of the land
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That, building on the Archdiocesan Reconciliation Action Plan, the Archdiocese develop and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander truth-telling, professional learning and formation plan that provides opportunities for all those within parishes, communities and agencies to come to a deeper recognition, appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures and spiritualities
** That the Archdiocese develop and distribute culturally appropriate resources to assist parishes, communities and agencies to include aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, traditions, spiritualities, ritual and symbol in prayers and liturgies
** That the Archdiocese develop culturally specific learning and formation opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 2 - CHOOSING REPENTANCE, SEEKING HEALING The focus here is on addressing sexual abuse in the Church, making amends for failures in the past and working to ensure that the Church is a safe place for all, but especially for the young and the vulnerable
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That in dialogue with survivors, the consequences of physical, sexual and spiritual abuse by Church personnel be addressed within the Archdiocese through truth-telling and story-telling sessions in safe spaces that may give survivors and their family members a voice to be heard and honoured, and support for research and programs related to trauma-informed spiritual care and the long-term impact of spiritual harm
** That a Sunday of the liturgical year be set aside within the Archdiocese to focus upon safeguarding and healing, with a reassessment of Safeguarding Sunday looking to rename, refocus and resituate it, with the preparation of appropriate ritual and resources, including an annual commissioning of local safeguarding people
** That the Archdiocese, in dialogue with survivors, implement processes that seek forgiveness for historical failings, recognising and addressing their needs. This could include a formal apology to survivors and their families, symbolic plaques and/or artwork in significant locations, theological reflection on sexual abuse within the Church which ought to be a place of refuge and safety, retreats and days of prayer that can foster healing, and the training of appropriately gifted people to undertake a ministry to survivors and their families.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 3 - CALLED BY CHRIST, SENT FORTH AS MISSIONARY DISCIPLES
The focus here is on the Church as a community of welcome for all, but especially for those who have been marginalised or excluded, listening to their stories and creating safe and hospitable spaces for them within the Church
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That an Archdiocesan family and intergenerational ministry working group be formed to develop and implement a holistic, intergenerational and inclusive approach to family faith-formation across educational and other Archdiocesan agencies in order to foster lifelong missionary discipleship
** That this working group explore ways of strengthening partnerships between parishes, schools, communities and agencies, develop and implement sacramental resources for children with diverse learning needs and disabilities, including training for sacramental coordinators and volunteers to use the resources, develop a safe and supportive network for parents and carers of children and young people who may need additional support to feel welcome, offer advice upon request at decision-making tables at all levels of Archdiocesan governance.
* That there be in self-nominated Mass centres the Eucharist and other liturgical celebrations catering for diverse needs within the community, provided with resourcing around mentorship, formation, training and succession-planning for self nominated clergy, religious and laity
*** That the Archdiocese provide facilitated listening sessions, workshops and forums for safe and supportive story-telling, truth-telling and dialogue, in order to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by those who are marginalised and disenfranchised
** That with the support and mentorship of the Archdiocesan Council for Ecumenism and Interreligious Relations, Queensland Churches Together and the Queensland Faith Communities Council, a co-responsible deanery approach to ecumenism and interreligious relations be developed and implemented, including short courses on ecumenism and interreligious relations, formation of individuals for work in ecumenical and interreligious relations, ecumenical retreats and pilgrimages, ecumenical and interreligious youth summits
*** That a strategic approach to mission in the digital environment be developed and implemented, focusing on the creation of digital media within a Catholic context, formation and training of people to work in the field, and including research into the possibilities and challenges of engaging the sacramental life of the Church through digital platforms such as live-streamed liturgies
** That the Archdiocese develop a pastoral ministry in sport, including formation and support programs and research into best practice and recommended qualifications, training and study pathways for sports chaplains.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 4 - WITNESSING TO THE EQUAL DIGNITY OF WOMEN AND MEN The focus here is on ensuring that the Church is a place where the equal dignity of women and men is respected and where the gifts of both women and men are identified and allowed to flourish for the sake of leadership within the Body of Christ
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
* That, if the universal law of the Church were modified to admit women to diaconal ordination, the Archdiocese examine how best to implement it in the context of the Church in Brisbane *** That a fulltime role of Executive Officer for Participation be established to design, implement and resource a plan for the full co-responsible participation of lay women and men in the life and mission of the Church ** That a reference group be established to explore options for the use of inclusive language in prayer, liturgy, scripture and all Archdiocesan communications * That a research project be established to explore the theological foundations of diverse understandings of women in the Church, leading to an assembly on co-responsibility of all the baptised in the life and mission of the Church *** That a pilot program be established to financially support the postgraduate education and formation of lay women and men in various areas of interest and importance to the Church, with the Archdiocese providing the initial funds with a view to establishing a foundation. A transparent application process would be overseen by the Archdiocesan Synod Council (see Action Plan 7) and approved finally by the Archbishop.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 5 - COMMUNION IN GRACE, SACRAMENT TO THE WORLD
The focus here is on the need to identify and foster the charisms given by God and to encourage new forms of ministry to supply the needs of the Church not only internally, for the sake of worship, but also externally, for the sake of mission
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
** That a ministry of front-of-house hospitality be developed and implemented for secretaries and other administrative staff in parishes and communities, recognising and formalising what is often happening, offering training and networking opportunities to those engaged in the ministry, devising processes of recruitment and care of those called to the ministry, and developing resources to help those engaged in the ministry
*** That the Archdiocese explore fully the possibilities of the ministries of catechist, lector and acolyte and consider what other ministries, open to all, instituted or not, might be needed to meet new needs
*** That the Archdiocese establish a Ministries Discernment Committee to oversee the recruitment, formation, commissioning, institution and continuing education of those preparing for or carrying out such ministries
** That the Archdiocese support and provide resources for lay-led liturgies where appropriate, particularly for parishes and communities without regular access to clergy
** That the Archdiocese give permission for lay people to preside at Catholic funerals and baptisms, indicating the circumstances in which this would be permitted and providing both discernment process and training programs for those involved in this ministry
** That the Archdiocese give permission for lay people to preside at Catholic weddings (in line with Chapter III of the Order of Celebrating Matrimony), indicating the circumstances in which this might occur and the process of delegation ** That the Archdiocese promote the participation of lay people in the ministry of preaching within the Sunday Mass and elsewhere, identifying the situations in which a lay person might offer a reflection during Mass, providing adequate training and support which would include sessions on how to run a Scripture study group, how to write and deliver a Lectionary-based reflection on the readings, how to make best use of the Directory for Masses with Children, drawing upon the resources of Archdiocesan agencies and organisations
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a project supporting the integration of families into parishes and communities in order to promote their sense of belonging and engagement in the life of the Church, providing resources to facilitate the incorporation of families into the community both before and after the sacraments of initiation and resources to support family catechesis when preparing children for the sacraments
** That the Archdiocese establish a network of groups working in marriage education and enrichment, including marriage preparation for engaged couples and ongoing accompaniment for married couples
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a formation strategy on the sacrament of penance and the many ways in which God’s mercy is experienced in Christian life and liturgy, providing resources and examples, such as ritual outlines for the celebration of the sacrament of penance, including the second rite, offering retreat opportunities for different age groups to enable them to experience the sacrament of penance, and revising the current sacramental policy on the provision of first penance for children.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 6 - FORMATION AND LEADERSHIP FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY
The focus here is on providing in a variety of ways the formation needed for ordained and non-ordained leadership in the Church, so that leaders will be properly equipped for the ministry to which they are called
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That the Archdiocese develop a plan for ministry and leadership formation, including a working group representing key people in formation and developing resources and programs on missional and synodal leadership such as podcasts, online modules and retreats, particularly for emerging leaders who have skills and qualifications equipping them for governance, leadership and other decision-making roles
* That the Archdiocese develop and implement opportunities for lay people to be engaged in ongoing spiritual growth beyond the liturgical context, including in small groups that meet regularly for prayer, bible study, reflection on Church documents, and spiritual accompaniment
* That parishes and deaneries offer formation events drawing upon experts to reflect on key topics such as prayer, scripture, sacraments, marriage and family, mission, care for our common home and inclusivity. SYNOD24
** That pathways for greater lay involvement in the ongoing formation of clergy and the formation of seminarians be identified, providing avenues for accompaniment of clergy by lay people and assisting pastors to work with a small group of lay people to provide regular feedback on homilies, based on an agreed criteria matrix
*** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a road-map for a mission focused Church that is synodal and co-responsible, including localised and ongoing conversations in the Spirit as a regular part of planning, decision-making, pastoral care and community-building
** That the Archdiocese teach simply and systematically the discipline and method of conversation in the Spirit as a way of discernment, attempting to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit in listening to each other.
* That the Archdiocese produce podcasts and digital media resources exploring what it means to read the signs of the times in the light of the Gospel
*** That the Archdiocese, at a time when the ethnic profile of the Catholic Church is changing both locally and globally, organise forums on interculturality in a missional, synodal and co-responsible Church.
*** That a SYNOD24 Formation and Implementation Plan be developed and implemented, providing opportunities for formation in all eight Action Plans and including resources and workshops in areas such as how to share faith with friends, how to engage with scripture, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island spirituality, integral ecology, sacraments and sacramentality, inclusive theology, the role of women in the Church, ecumenism and interreligious relations.
*** That the Archdiocese offers workshops and practical resources on how to implement the SYNOD24 Action Plans in parishes, communities and agencies across the Archdiocese.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 7 - AT THE SERVICE OF COMMUNION, PARTICIPATION AND MISSION: GOVERNANCE
The focus here is on the governance of the Church in a synodal key, looking to synods as a regular feature of Church life and to synodality as the characteristic of all aspects of Church governance for the sake of mission
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That the Archdiocese commit to celebrating Synods on a regular basis, so that this key element of synodality become a normal part of Archdiocesan life
*** That the Archdiocese establish a Synod Council which will meet regularly through the year between the Synods, members committing to formation in and practice of conversation in the Spirit as a key element of meetings and to formation in the nature and purpose of the Council
** That the Council commit to diverse representation including a mix of lay women and men, religious and the ordained.
** That the Archdiocese prepare Statutes for the Council ARCHDIOCESAN SUMMIT 2023 2 4 / ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE SYNOD24 Action Plans
** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a project to operate at deanery level to identify lay people who are women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, persons with a disability or from a cultural community, and who seem suitable to serve on councils and committees in the parish or the Archdiocese with the right kind of mentorship, accompaniment and formation, especially in the areas of synodality, co-responsibility and mission
** That the Archdiocese develop and implement a parish handover process that includes consultation with members of the parish, especially the Parish Pastoral Council, and the preparation of a statement of what the parish expects of a pastor.
* That there be in the Archdiocese regular performance reviews of pastors to identify areas of strength and areas for growth, with ongoing professional supervision to foster growth.
PLENARY COUNCIL DECREE 8 - INTEGRAL ECOLOGY AND CONVERSION FOR THE SAKE OF OUR COMMON HOME
The focus here is on the need for ecological conversion in the life and mission of the Church, understanding that the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor are the one thing, and that ecological conversion must lead to action
ARCHDIOCESAN SYNOD ACTION PLANS
*** That an integral ecology formation strategy be developed and implemented for clergy, community leaders, agency staff and parishioners, to be revised every three years, helping them to grow in understanding of integral ecology and its impact on our behaviour and drawing where appropriate on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wisdom, and engaging with already existing eco-spirituality resources
* That all organisations, parishes and schools writing a Laudato Si Action Plan include a framework for measuring and reporting emission reduction that leads to a considered net zero pathway that includes commitment and timeframes.
* That, in addition to the emission reduction strategies, Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities be developed in the Archdiocese with a view to assisting all agencies, parishes and communities to embed measurable ESG outcomes into their future Laudato Si Action Plans. SANTA TERESA SPIRITUALITY CENTRE.
*** That an Ecological Ministry Strategic Plan be developed and implemented to support ecological ministry throughout the Archdiocese, recruiting deanery representatives to create hubs that support ecological ministers overseen by a coordinator employed by the Archdiocese to support action in parishes and communities
* That intergenerational and family initiatives be developed to promote the call to care for our common home
* That parishes, communities and agencies share their activities in the area of ecological engagement at events and through avenues of communication, and that cross-agency collaboration in this area be coordinated and encouraged throughout the Archdiocese.
*** That the Archdiocese produce guidelines and resources for parish clergy and liturgy coordinators indicating ways in which a commitment to integral ecology can be integrated into liturgical celebrations.
CLOSING REMARKS
Some of these action plans already have currency in one form or other in the Archdiocese, or at least in some parts of the Archdiocese. The task will be to give greater impetus and focus to those that already have currency, but also to set in motion the processes to which others look. Not all the action plans will be able to be implemented immediately, but none of them can be delayed indefinitely Therefore, priorities will have to be set in the hope that the action plans will have been implemented within five years. Budgeting will also need to be considered, as will the question of who has carriage of the various initiatives. There will need to be a group to oversee the implementation of the action plans, the Synod Council will also be charged with oversight of a broader kind, and the Archdiocesan Synods will monitor progress. Yet this is a document not just for some. It is for everyone; and I urge all parishes, communities, agencies and individuals to read and reflect upon the action plans and to be as creative as possible in implementing them. These action plans are comprehensive but not exhaustive. There are things not mentioned in this document which are important for the future of the Archdiocese of Brisbane. For instance, we will certainly need to consider restructuring our parishes and even our schools, looking not so much to amalgamation but more to building a “community of communities”. How to engage young people more energetically in the life of the Church is another question not prominent in these action plans but essential for the future of the Church. How to be more effective in teaching prayer as a way of life, the art of listening to God in prayer and the contemplative eye upon the world: this is another. The list could go on. This is another way of saying that these action plans should be read in conjunction with my own document “With Lamps Ablaze” which sets out a number of what I called apostolic priorities for the Archdiocese. These interweave with the action plans found here. I direct that these synodal declarations and decrees which I sign in accord with can. 466 be published to the entire community of the Archdiocese and that a copy be forwarded to the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference as required by can. 46 I thank all who have been part of the Synod journey, having heard the Lord’s promise to “make all things new” (Revelation 21:5). I commend these action plans to the grace of the Holy Spirit from whom this process has come forth and to the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, St Stephen and St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. May God who has begun the good work in us bring it to fulfilment (cf Philippians 1:6)
Mark
Archbishop of Brisbane
November 2024
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment