You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*
Sunday, 2 February 2025 | Presentation of the Lord Year C | 
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Readings for Sunday, 2 February 2025 - Presentation of Lord - Year ABC FIRST READING- Malachi 3:1-4 Ps 24:7, 8 ,9, 10. “Who is this King of Glory? It is the Lord!” SECOND READING- Hebrews 2:14-18 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 2:32). Alleluia, Alleluia. This is the light of revelation to the nations and the glory of your people, Israel. GOSPEL- Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22-32 |
“Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation,” (Luke 22:29-30)
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pTJwc00xNk29kERocybz/jesus-swaddled-in-linens-cradled-in-the-arms-of-young-lady-mary-with-jos?ru=Pau
We congratulate the JOHNSON, RODRIGUEZ and POWNALL families whose children, RILEY, MILA, LOUISE, PATRICK and CAROLINE will be baptised in our Parish this weekend. Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey. |
PASTOR’S POST - Fr Bradley
Some of you may remember that I have had other professions and paths before joining the priesthood. I began as a swimming teacher and coach after high school, volunteered for two years with a youth ministry called National Encounter Teams (NET), became a primary school teacher, and then became a priest. As I look back on these experiences, I reflect on how God has guided me to and through each one.
My consideration and discernment of the priesthood did not start until a few years into my adult life, but I can see how God has equipped me for this calling along the way. I had little experience or confidence in speaking to large groups, and struggled with socialising when I was at school. My experiences in coaching, youth ministry, and primary school teaching all gave me so much experience and confidence in both people skills, and skills speaking in front of many people. My experiences with NET and other youth and parish programs helped me to deepen my faith and learn more about it.
It has been through these wide range of experiences, that God’s grace has worked in my life and allowed me to reach this point of my life, where I have come to you as a newly ordained priest. However, I know that this journey hasn’t come to a climax, it has really only just begun. I look forward to how God will continue to grace my life through many more experiences that I will have here with you in this parish, and these will help me to become more of the man and priest I have been created to be.
I pray that you too can look at your own life and see where and how God’s grace has impacted you, and that you can consider where this will lead you into your future, regardless of what stage of life you are at. May God be with you in your life, both in your external and internal journeys.
Fr Bradley -
This weekend (2nd February) is the Solemnity of the Presentation of the Lord Jesus in the temple. Traditionally, candles are blessed at these masses. Please bring your candles for blessing on this traditional Feast day this weekend.
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The Stella Maris Church is closed until further notice - for repairs and safety assessment of the whole ceiling.
There will be no masses this weekend at the Broadbeach church, or in the future, until the problem is resolved.
(Update as at 31/1/25)We are told by the builders that they aim to have the church fixed by the end of February/ start of March.
The construction assessment proposes an effective and relatively time-efficient repair schedule. 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**
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.
PRESENTATION FEAST
The blessing of candles on the Feast of the Presentation embodies the Gospel narrative, introducing Jesus as the “Light of the people.” Candles, lit during liturgical services and in homes, signify Christ's abiding presence.
Today we celebrate something really special: the hope and longing that our faith has embraced throughout history. Just think about it— Israel waited with such anticipation for Christ’s arrival, and figures like Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, and Zechariah truly embodied that longing for God’s promises to be fulfilled.
And, thanks be to our faithful God, their hopes weren’t in vain!
Today’s feast, the presentation of our Lord, reminds us that when our desires stay united with the expectation of God’s Kingdom, those hopes will come to life.
In our scriptures, we find beautiful themes—freedom from fear and the gift of forgiveness. God, seen as an eternally loving parent, sent us Jesus to show us mercy and compassion. It’s so important to remember that God isn’t distant or unpredictable. Instead, He’s a constant source of goodness and grace. When we think about God, let’s do so with awe, recognizing His greatness, faithfulness and mercy. God’s plans for us are extremely long term, and they will be fulfilled in God’s time.
Simeon and Anna are shining examples of what it means to be faithful. They lived lives filled with prayer, hope, and watchfulness. Their anticipation wasn’t just sitting around; they actively engaged with their community, sharing in both joys and sorrows. When Simeon finally saw the infant Jesus, can you imagine his joy? He knew he was witnessing the long-awaited Messiah! And Anna, despite facing hardships, was a beacon of kindness and hope, dedicating her life to worship in the temple.
So, let’s draw inspiration from their lives. Let’s stay steadfast in prayer, allow Jesus nurture our faith—both together and in our quiet moments.
By doing this, we build a deep connection with God, keeping our hopes alive as we await the fulfillment of His promises. Together, let’s embody the hope-filled spirit of Simeon and Anna, trusting in God’s faithfulness.
WELCOME! Fr Bradley settles into life here at Surfers Paradise
Father Bradley joined the St Vincent’s staff to officially bless and open the Mercy Garden.
Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish Childhood Sacraments in 2025 The table on the next two pages contains the information that should help to ensure that your child/ren’s Sacramental Journey continues. Please remember that your child and your family are often included in our prayers at mass and in the personal prayers of many parishioners. We look forward to supporting you in this sacred work. See next page of newsletter for info The Sacramental Team 😃
Sacrament Name & Important Dates | Eligibility and Admin Costs | How to enrol; check a child’s enrolment or request information for Sacramental Preparation Groups in SPP |
Baptism Celebrations of the Sacrament of Baptism occur most Sundays of the Year at 10:30am in Sacred Heart Church. Bookings are linked to online enrolment form (see info far right). **Baptism spaces are booked out a couple of months in advance.
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*From birth
*Administration Cost for Sacrament of Baptism $130 | Birth to 7 years old: Go to parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au Use the top menu bar and hover over Sacraments. Click on Baptism. Please read the baptism information and then scroll down to the blue-filled box with the link to the enrolment form that you need. Click on the link in the box; complete the form and then click on Submit. You should receive an automated response letting you know that the form has been received. To request information for Birth to 7 year old Baptisms: Email the Parish Secretary, Merla Nario, at surfers@bne.catholic.net.au For Children 8 years and older: Prior to Baptism, we provide a program of preparation over a few meetings. In order to coordinate a mutually suitable date and time to begin these meetings, please email your interest to our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au |
Confirmation Enrolments Close: 18.07.25 Parent Meeting 5:30pm, in Sacred Heart Church Either 22.07.25 Or 23.07.25. Final Meeting & Practice 5:30pm, in Sacred Heart Church Either 26.08.25 Or 27.08.25 Celebration of Confirmation: Evening of Friday 12.09.25 (TBA) | *For Baptised Children in Year 3 or greater *Total Administration Cost for Confirmation and Eucharist Preparation, one payment of $150
| Go to parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au Use the top menu bar and hover over Sacraments. Click on Confirmation. Please read the information about Confirmation and then scroll down to the blue-filled box with the link to the form that you need. Click on the link in the box; complete the enrolment application form and click on Submit. You should receive an automated response letting you know that the form has been received. In Term 2, our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson, will email the families of all enrolled children to remind families of important dates and preparation requirements. To request information: Email Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au Please note: Dates for completed activities that relate to preparation for a particular Sacrament will be explained at the Parent Meeting. Due dates etc will also be provided to parents in an email. |
Eucharist (First Holy Communion) Enrolments Close: 21.03.25 Parent Meeting 5:30pm, in Sacred Heart Church Either 25.03.25 Or 26.03.25 Final Meeting & Practice 5:30pm, in Sacred Heart Church Either 27.05.25 Or 28.05.25 Celebration of First Holy Communion: 11am in Sacred Heart Church Either Sunday 01.06.25 Or Sunday 08.06.25 | * For children in Year 4 or greater who have been Baptised and Confirmed * Administration Cost (Excludes Sacrament of Confirmation) Preparation $120 | A. If your child received the Sacrament of Confirmation in Surfers Paradise Parish in 2024, they will automatically be included in the group to be contacted for Preparation for First Communion in 2025. There will be no further Administration Fee, if the fee was paid in 2024. Contact will be made via email, by the Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson. The email will be sent in Term 1. B. If your child was confirmed in Surfers Paradise Parish prior to 2024, please express your interest in joining the 2025 First Communion Group by emailing Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au Once you have made contact, you will be included in all emails etc. C. If your child was confirmed in another parish, please follow the information in the cell above that explains enrolling for Confirmation. The process is very similar except that you should choose First Holy Communion under Sacraments and then complete an online enrolment application to include your child in the 2025 First Communion Group. Please note: Dates for completed activities that relate to preparation for a particular Sacrament will be explained at the Parent Meeting and these due dates will also be provided to parents in an email. |
Penance (Also known as Reconciliation or Confession) | * For children in Year 4 or greater who have been Baptised and Confirmed, and have made their First Holy Communion.
| A. If your child made their First Holy Communion in SPP in 2025, they will automatically be invited (via email) to be part of the group to prepare for the Sacrament of Penance later in 2025. Contact will be made in Term 3, by the Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson. B. If your child made their First Holy Communion in SPP prior to 2025, please express your interest in joining the 2025 Sacrament of Penance Group by emailing Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au Once you have made contact, you will be included in all emails etc. C. If your child made their First Holy Communion in another parish, please follow the information provided above (2 cells above) that explains enrolling for Confirmation. The process is very similar except that you should choose Reconciliation under Sacraments and then complete an online enrolment application to include your child in the 2025 Reconciliation (Penance Preparation) Group. Please note: Dates for completed activities will be emailed |
MISSING SOMETHING? IT MAY BE IN OUR LOST AND FOUND COLLECTION
HELP NEEDED - RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN STATE SCHOOLS
• Short A/V clip https://biteable.com/watch/4339969/c0115c566fdd0fc9f35f9db7149f7c76
NEW VOLUNTEERS No previous experience is required, as new volunteers receive training. They are mentored by experienced instructors, until confident to teach by themselves.
WHAT WE DO The key themes of the Bible and the Christian Faith are clearly explained using “Christian Education Publications” (CEP) curricula that have been developed for this purpose. The children’s lessons are age-related and non-denominational. Students are encouraged to make connections with the Bible teaching, and they may apply the learning to their lives.
Children engage with the truths of the Bible week by week through music, drama, reading and writing, puzzle solving, drawing, asking questions and primarily through listening to enthusiastic story telling. The lessons are usually for 30minutes each week.
TRAINING Information and Start-up Training sessions commence from Thursday 30th January and on various dates until Thursday 6th February for a 3-hour introduction.
FOLLOW UP Those interested are invited to contact:
Helene McCowan Mob 0419 747 631
Email: helene.mccowan@gmail.com
IN SUMMARY We simply need more hands to help. This is an awesome opportunity to bring the word of God to the children in our State Schools. Our goal is that none miss out and that we provide excellent programmes to the glory of God. I am happy to speak with you if you have any questions. Sincerely, Helene.
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
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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 casualties.
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.
Lay volunteers providing pastoral care to the sick in hospitals
are invaluable as part of holistic patient care. The foundation for this ministry lies in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Centacare provides accredited training for compassionate men and women who would like to explore if this ministry is where God is calling them to practical Christian action in their lives. The next training course will start in February 2025. To express your interest or to find out more about the course and the volunteer role please email judy.norris@bne.centacare.net.au or phone 3324 3193
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"We stand at the edge of the incomprehensible ocean that is God "
Saint Paul prayed that the Christians at Ephesus—and we who believe in Jesus today—would be able
“to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge.”
I think Paul was using all the possible adjectives he could think of, all the dimensions he knew, in order to give us a glimpse of the love of God.
Could we with ink the ocean fill,
and were the skies of parchment made;
were every stalk on earth a quill,
and every man a scribe by trade;
to write the love of God above
would drain the ocean dry;
nor could the scroll contain the whole,
though stretched from sky to sky.
Author — Jimmy Tai-On Lin
The Café - “Sacred Grounds” - Located at the Former Atrium Building near the Sacred Heart Church.
The café near the Sacred Heart Church is 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 old location in the front of the church was not ideal. The café has now reopened in the old Atrium building. This allows 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
The 2025 Jubilee Year, also known as the Year of the Pilgrim of Hope, is a time to celebrate faith, hope, and charity.
Here are some ways to celebrate the 2025 Jubilee:
Forgive a debt - whether it be financial, moral, spiritual and so on - A debt that another owes you, that you can afford to let go of, in a spirit of jubilee - consciously write off/cancel this debt.
LENTEN BOOKLETS FOR PERSONAL OR GROUP REFLECTION
AVAILABLE NOW AT THE PIETY SHOPS. $5.
Or https://shop.archdiocesanministries.org.au/products/lent-2025-start-anew-in-christ-pre-order
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.
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 once they have been endorsed through the Episcopal Offices in Brisbane. 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 from 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) *Note: First Saturday of the month, morning Mass, Adoration and Benediction: 9 am 1st February 2025
Sunday - Special extra 7 am Mass at Sacred Heart church, while Broadbeach Church is closed. And also the usual 9 am and 6 pm (at Sacred Heart - Clear Island Waters) Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 a.m. (all at Sacred Heart) [Stations of the Cross prior to weekday masses - Stations: 8 am - Sacred Heart Church] (Healing masses resume the First Tuesday in February- 10 am Tuesday 4th February 2025.). {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 | CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE - DUE TO CEILING DAMAGE 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. Saturday - 5 pm
Sunday - 7 am
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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 SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. 9 am Saturday 1/2/2025. Followed by adoration and Benediction. {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ANOINTING MASS – MASS OF HEALING FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (FEBRUARY-NOVEMBER)
Resumes at 10 am Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Tuesday the 4th of February - Followed by morning tea. Please let others know who would love to come along.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 7/2/2025, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
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, Phil Bawden, Nellie Bellinger, Phillip Brady, 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, Helen Dowling, Christopher Eid, John Fox, Lorraine Gallagher, Ellanie Gonzalez, Jenny Haines, Mary Hirst, Andrew Janiec, Jenny Johnson, Kevin & Francis Junee, Leona Kelly, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Robert Lahey, Dannielle Therese Larney, Alvin Lee, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, Ron McConnell, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Leonie McMahon, Angela Micallef, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Frances Much, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Scott Nunan, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Gus Risotto, Bob Rogers, Marnia Ryan-Raison, Miranda Santi, Maureen Scott, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Naomi Ryan, Karsten Rickert, Lee Pascuale Caprie, Kenneth Montgomery, Phillip Ronald Conquest, Romana Carlin, Brant Michael Campbell, Noel Patrick Cook, Ann Letitia Owens, Michael (Mick) McKew, John Rowles, Bruce O’Brien, Martha Wagner, Peter Noble, Carmela Parente, Maureen Williams, Christine Lennon, Erin Stein, Anthony Box, Lubomir Stas, Julie Chamberlain, Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Leslie (Les) Gloster Alford, Nicholas Eamon Ashworth, Dolores Mary Barakat, Paul Barry, Mark Christopher Behan, George Beljak, Judith Boggan, Naurelle Cahill, Antoun Christophi, Mark Connell, Peter Cotton, Mons David Dee, Michael Francis Dooley, Bette Edwards, Peter James Evert, James John (Jim) Gardiner, Jan Grammer, Alan Hague, James Hendrie, Fr William Hogan, Bob Jackson, Judith Anne Jones, John David (Jack) Kelly, Peter Francis Kennedy, Wendy (Wen) Maclachlan, Vern William Mannix, Nora Winifred (Freda) McGrath, Gloria Mcleod, Brian Moon, Veronica Mary Moore, Anthony Osbourne, Fr Robert O'Shea, Patricia Powell, Mercedes Rosario, Terese Salama, Gary Patrick Walsh, Geoffrey Williams.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Marie Ethel Ashby, Maria Beer, Peter Warren Bennett, Marco Burcul, Peter Capolupo, Graciella Del Carmen Chapman, Walter Ciabattoni , Klaus Diga, Jeffrey Eric Fittler, Berice May Flannery, Patricia Mary Flori, Raymond John Ford, David William Foster, Glenis Maria Gaffney, Ronda Jean Terese Hall, Cheryl Anne Hamwood, Peter Hinde, Susan Marie Hogan, Teresa Jackson, Teresa Jackson , Waldemar Kaczor , Zvonimir Leopold Karlich, Dr David Lee, Mons Robert Lyons, Anna Marinic, Raelene Mavis Maroney, Daniel Mc Enery, Stanley Nalepa, Michael O'Brien, Hilda O'Donnell, Jack O'Donnell, Mons Michael Potter, John Reid, Jacqueline Feriel Rivet, Len Scully.
VIRTUAL PRAYER UPDATE
Dear Fr Paul and parishioners of Surfers Paradise Parish,
With 2025 well underway, I thought it was time to send you an update on what has become a seemingly miraculous answer to our prayers.
Back in 2022, I contacted you from Melbourne, Australia and asked for prayers for my friend Phil Bawden who had been diagnosed with an incurable and very aggressive cancer. He had been given an outside chance of surviving for five months. At the time, seeking prayers was the only thing I could think of doing to bring some comfort to Phil and his wife (and my dearest friend) Maryrose. I promised Phil that, for as long as he is with us here on Earth, I will remain on my ‘virtual journey’ around the world to do just that.
So, here I am today, nearly three years after making that vow, letting you know that my journey continues. Phil is still with us and he and Maryrose have, together, celebrated many milestones that three years ago seemed so impossible. Even as I type this, I am feeling totally overwhelmed and brought to tears as I contemplate the magnitude of the messages I have received from others like you. I have had more than 350 responses from church communities, religious congregations and individuals from 69 different countries. Can you believe this?
That reaction alone, to me, is a miracle. I never dreamed this would happen. Every one of the responses forms a page in a book I created for Phil when I imagined perhaps getting a dozen or so replies. You can imagine how thick that book is now and it is a continual inspiration to both Phil and Maryrose.
So, you can see why I needed to send you an update and once again thankyou for replying to my original request. To me, this is the miracle of prayer and you are part of that miracle.
Phil, Maryrose and I will always be indebted to you.
As I have done since I first reached out to you, I will continue to hold you and your community in my prayers.
Kindest regards,
Maureen Hyland
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
Open before and after all weekend Masses, other times contact the Parish Office.
Daily reflections for Lent Year C ‘Start Anew in Christ’ available until sold out $5
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray The Stations of the Cross, The Divine Mercy and The Rosary each day at 8:00a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION
First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, 9 a.m. Saturday, 1/02/25. This will be Followed by adoration and Benediction.
{This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.
ANOINTING MASS – MASS OF HEALING FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (FEBRUARY-NOVEMBER)
Resumes at 10 am Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Tuesday the 4th of February - Followed by morning tea. Please let others know who would love to come along.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 7/02/25, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
ART AND CRAFT GROUP (RESUMES ON 29TH JANUARY)
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.
MARIAN VALLEY PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church for Our Lady of Lourdes Feast on 11.02.2025 and on the 13.02.2025 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am on both days at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost of the bus fare per person $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine 5529 1573 and
Chris Raynald 0451 302 674.
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:
3/2/2025 Helen & Thor Merrimac
10/2/2025 Helen & Thor Merrimac
17/2/2025 Maria Alexanderson
24/2/2025 Maria Alexanderson
3/3/2025 Michelle Burda Merrimac
10/3/2025 Michelle Burda Merrimac
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
Join Rochelle for a fun, functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65’s. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au or call 07 5671 7388.
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Friday from 5pm-6pm at St Vincent’s Church
(40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise).
Come along and read/study Break Open the Word weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP
The meditation group meets in the Morris prayer room on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It would very much like to welcome new members. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesus de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate every 2nd Saturday of the month from 11 am to 2 pm. Place: Hospitality Room. Sacred Heart Church. “We praise, We praise, We grow spiritually from the Word of the Lord.” For more information, please contact Grace. For more information, please email:grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
SOCIAL - BUS TRIP - LET US ALL BE IRISH on the 17th March.
Come and join us on St. Patrick’s Day starting with a bus journey to participate in Mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedrall at 10am. Fr Gerard will be the celebrant and the Mass includes Irish bagpipes. Morning tea next to the Cathedral is included after our spiritual celebration. Then we head off to Western Districts Rugby Football Club Toowoong for a 12-noon lunch followed by Irish dancing and entertainment. On the way home, test your wits by joining in some Irish Trivia with prizes including the best Irish outfit and lucky seat. Please invite your family and friends as all are welcome.
Date: Monday 17 March (RSVP: Tuesday 11th March)
Location: The bus will depart and return to St. Joseph the Worker Church, Labrador (44 Imperial Parade)
Times: 8.15am for prompt departure at 8.30am and returning at about 4.30pm
Cost: $30 for bus hire (dependent on numbers) Lunch and drinks are at your expense
As with all SCP events, bookings are essential. To register, email Christine Wintour at winlock2@hotmail.com or to get further details, please contact her by mobile on 0431 630 446.
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/
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:
Like Simeon, we should listen to God’s call and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us as we serve with faith and purpose.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.” – Hebrews 2:18
When we join a support group, there is comfort in sharing our pain with people who have experienced the same thing; they understand what we are going through. The next time you experience suffering, talk to Jesus. He has experienced more suffering than most of us, He understands. Plus, Jesus knows us better than we know ourselves. Only He can fill the hole you feel in your heart.
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 - Happy Candlemas!
The Presentation of the Lord, or Candlemas, marks the ritual presentation of Jesus in the Temple 40 days after his birth, as was the Jewish custom. On the day the infant Jesus was presented, Simeon, a devout and just man, couldn’t help but declare Christ’s glory at the sight of the child. “My eyes have seen your salvation!” Traditionally, Candlemas is marked by a blessing of and procession with candles, an act that signifies the light brought into the world by Christ. Simeon witnessed that light firsthand; today, why not be a walking celebration of Candlemas? Shine Christ’s light for the world to see!
“And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek.” (Malachi 3:1-4).
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY - www.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe
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 SUPPORTYour 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 |
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/ATViBBkduCBFTnoXmTqR/jesus-mary-and-joseph-the-holy-family-in-the-temple-shortly-after-jesus-birth-the-elderly-prophet-si?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Prologue: This weekend, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord occurs on a Sunday, and as a Feast day of the Lord it overrides the usual Sunday calendar of readings. This feast originated in Jerusalem before the fifth century and was adopted in Rome during the seventh century. Celebrated forty days after Christmas, commemorating the ritual as prescribed by the Law of Moses, which the Holy Family fulfilled at this time when they presented the child Jesus, at the temple.
At this time, Luke’s Gospel recounts the encounter of Jesus with Simeon and Anna in the temple. This Feast day is also a traditional time in the Christian calendar for the blessing of candles for prayer use, - the blessing of which is found in the introductory rites and the candles are carried in the entrance procession. This is because of the reference by Simeon in his prayerful song.... that Christ is "the light to enlighten all nations".
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All of Israel longed and hoped for Christ. Mary and Joseph, Elizabeth and Zechariah, and so many more, had longed and waited for the fulfilment of God's promises. Waiting, hoping, and longing for the coming of the Lord and the establishment of God's Kingdom in and through the Christ.
We too long and hope that all that God has promised us will one day be completed. Today's feast of the presentation of our Lord reminds us that our hope and deepest longings will be fulfilled by our faithful God. We will be satisfied, for all our longings that match with the values and longings of the Kingdom of God will be fulfilled.
The other theme in the scriptures this weekend include freedom from fear and forgiveness of sin. We can trust that God is an unconditionally loving parent, who sent us his only beloved Son Jesus Christ to save us and to show us his mercy. Christ, who is one of us and who atones for our sins on our behalf, and who is compassionate and trustworthy, and who empathises with our struggles and our temptations.
Christ reveals the truth and the fullness of God's nature. It is not right for us to see God as scary, capricious, temperamental, inconsistent, or some kind of unpleasant being with whom we do not know where we stand or we don't know if we ever had a chance to be saved. That's not the God Christ presents.
We fear God only in the original sense of that word, of being in awe of God's astounding greatness, his astounding goodness, and astounding mercy. Although we never would dare to act in such a way that we presume on God's forbearance, or take it for granted, or use it as an excuse in advance for doing the wrong thing, we're nevertheless right to trust and hope in humble, penitential confidence for God's care and salvation. Simeon and Anna are wonderful examples of faithful discipleship.
Anna was said to be always in the temple, praying, hoping, and watching. Simeon was a wonderful God-fearing man, whom the Holy Spirit rested on. They are wonderful expressions of the hope-filled, faithful, prayerful, and loyal disciples of God, which we all strive to be.
Simeon and Anna were representatives of that type of people who are described in the scriptures as the quiet in the land, as in Psalm 35 verse 20. People who lived peaceful, amiable, and religious lives. These peaceful, gentle, and hope-filled people held no desire for a violent or terrible overthrowing of the nation's enemies, nor did they long for a warrior-like Messiah or a dreadful warrior-king arriving to bring down the enemy and subdue them with the force of armies with swords and banners.
Rather, they believed in a life of constant prayer and quiet watchfulness until God should come and bring in the fullness of His kingdom of peace, justice, mercy, and abundance. All their lives they waited quietly, patiently, and peacefully upon God. Simeon and Anna were like that in prayer, in worship, in humble and faithful expectation.
They were waiting for the day when God would arrive and comfort His people. One also gets the strong impression that they weren't just like wallflowers hanging around the temple doing nothing. They were surely putting their faith and prayer into action, engaging with people who visited on pilgrimage, helping people out and listening to their troubles, praying with them and strengthening them.
Being so long in the temple, Anna must have seen countless joys, sorrows, tragedies, and victories of ordinary people's lives and shared with them in their laughter and in their tears.
God had promised Simeon through the Holy Spirit that his life would not end before he had seen God's own anointed King in the flesh. (%%)
Finally, in his advanced old age, Simeon recognized that the baby Jesus, being presented in the temple by his loving mother Mary and his faithful stepfather Joseph, that this child was indeed coming home in a real sense. He was arriving in his heavenly father's house by arriving at the temple. Simeon recognized that this was the long-hoped-for Messiah and King. And of course, Simeon was overjoyed. (%%)
He got to take the child in his arms. And now he was ready to depart in peace, and his words have become another of the great and precious songs of praise that have been taken up afterwards by generations of believers in the church. At last, all-powerful Master, you give leave to your servant to go in peace according to your promise, for my eyes have seen the salvation of the Lord. (%%)
Wonderful, absolutely beautiful. We also see in the Gospel, Anna, the widow. She has surely known sorrow, tragedy, and hardship in her long and humble life, and yet she has never lost hope or joy. (%%)
Anna did not let difficulties, sorrows, pain, or advancing age make her hard, bitter, or resentful, or rebellious against God, but rather Anna remained kind, positive, sympathetic, hope-filled, prayerful, faith-filled, and very, very close to God. Anna spent her days in the temple. She sees God as not distant and detached, but rather as intimately connected with her own life and all of our lives, with God having his hand on the helm. (%%)
She was delighted and happy to be a servant in God's house. She never ceased to pray and to worship God. She spent her life in God's house with God's people. (%%)
God gave us his church to be our mother in faith. We really do rob ourselves of a priceless treasure if we neglect to be one with his worshipping people regularly when we can. Anna never ceased to pray. (%%)
Public worship is great, and private worship is also great. As someone once said rather wisely, they pray best together who first pray alone. But these are two aspects of the same thing. Private and public worship are essential. They're complementary aspects of the same thing. The years had left Anna wise and with an unshakable hope because day by day she kept her contact with him who is the source of all strength, and whose strength our weakness is made perfect. %%
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly
(%%) - quoted from and adapted from Barclay, W. (1975). The Gospel of Luke. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: St. Andrew Press.
https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/ATViBBkduCBFTnoXmTqR?ru=Paul-Evangelion
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To listen to the whole 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.
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
FEB3 - - Saint Ansgar, bishop (801-865)
“If I were worthy of such a favour from my God, I would ask that He grant me this one miracle –that by His grace, He would make of me a good man.” Saint Ansgar to a parishioner who was praising him for being a miracle worker.
FEB3 - m - Saint Blase, bishop and martyr
Be a healing light
The historical details of Saint Blaise’s fourth-century life in what is now modern-day Turkey are lost in the shroud of the centuries, but the tradition of his healing powers endures. The healing of throat diseases is what is most ascribed to him. When Blaise was imprisoned during a persecution of Christians, he apparently healed a choking boy with the aid of candles that lit his dark cell. On another level, the enduring tradition speaks to the ongoing need for healing that we all share. Whether it be a physical ailment or a wounded soul that needs tending, say a prayer today to Saint Blaise, the keeper of the flame.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation. Your presence, O LORD, I seek.”
St Agatha, Virgin and Martyr
St Paul Miki and companions, martyrs
06 February. Memorial.
Died on 5 February 1597, a group of twenty-six martyrs crucified at Nagasaki (Japan). Most were Japanese and most were laypeople, some still youths. The first of many martyrs in a young Church. Paul Miki, aged thirty-five years at his death, was a Jesuit scholastic from an aristocratic Japanese family. Remembered as a notable preacher who inspired the local Church in his own time and in the centuries that followed to be strong in faith during persecution and isolation.
St Jerome Emiliani
08 February. Optional Memorial.
Born in Venice (Italy). Died of the plague on this day in 1537. An army officer who, after imprisonment, began a new life of service among the sick and destitute. Remembered for his care and education of orphaned and homeless children, a ministry continued by the Somaschi, an order of clergy which he founded.
St Josephine Bakhita, Virgin
08 February. Optional Memorial
Born in 1869 at Oglassa (Sudan). Died on this day in 1947 at Schio (Italy). Kidnapped by slave traders at the age of 9 and treated cruelly, she was eventually acquired by the Italian consul and taken to Italy. Baptised Josephine in 1890, she joined the Canossan sisters several years later. ‘Mother Moretta’ (our black mother) is remembered for her gentle good nature, humble faith, and gospel charity towards the poor and suffering.
POPE FRANCIS:
Encyclical continued -ENCYCLICAL LETTER - “DILEXIT NOS” (“HE LOVED US”).
TRINITARIAN PERSPECTIVES
70. Devotion to the heart of Jesus, as a direct contemplation of the Lord that draws us into union with him, is clearly Christological in nature.We see this in the Letter to the Hebrews, which urges us to “run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus” (12:2).At the same time, we need to realize that Jesus speaks of himself as the way to the Father: “I am the way…No one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn14:6).Jesus wants to bring us to the Father.That is why, from the very beginning, the Church’s preaching does not end with Jesus, but with the Father.As source and fullness, the Father is ultimately the one to be glorified.[53]
71. If we turn, for example, to the Letter to the Ephesians, we can see clearly how our worship is directed to the Father: “I bow my knees before the Father” (3:14).There is “one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all” (4:6).“Give thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything” (5:20).It is the Father “for whom we exist” (1 Cor8:6).In this sense, Saint John Paul II could say that, “the whole of the Christian life is like a greatpilgrimage to the house of the Father”.[54]This too was the experience of Saint Ignatius of Antioch on his path to martyrdom: “In me there is left no spark of desire for mundane things, but only a murmur of living water that whispers within me, ‘Come to the Father’”.[55]
72. The Father is, before all else, the Father of Jesus Christ: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”(Eph1:3).He is “the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory” (Eph1:17).When the Son became man, all the hopes and aspirations of his human heart were directed towards the Father.If we consider the way Christ spoke of the Father, we can grasp the love and affection that his human heart felt for him, this complete and constant orientation towards him.[56]Jesus’ life among us was a journey of response to the constant call of his human heart to come to the Father.[57]
73. We know that the Aramaic word Jesus used to address the Father was “Abba”, an intimate and familiar term that some found disconcerting (cf.Jn5:18).It is how he addressed the Father in expressing his anguish at his impending death: “Abba,Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want” (Mk14:36).Jesus knew well that he had always been loved by the Father: “You loved me before the foundation of the world” (Jn17:24).In his human heart, he had rejoiced at hearing the Father say to him: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased” (Mk1:11).
74. The Fourth Gospel tells us that the eternal Son was always “close to the Father’s heart” (Jn1:18).[58]Saint Irenaeus thus declares that “the Son of God was with the Father from the beginning”.[59]Origen, for his part, maintains that the Son perseveres “in uninterrupted contemplation of the depths of the Father”.[60]When the Son took flesh, he spent entire nights conversing with his beloved Father on the mountaintop (cf.Lk6:12).He told us, “I must be in my Father’s house” (Lk2:49).We see too how he expressed his praise: “Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth’ (Lk10:21).His last words, full of trust, were, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” (Lk23:46).
75. Let us now turn to the Holy Spirit, whose fire fills the heart of Christ.As Saint John Paul II once said, Christ’s heart is “the Holy Spirit’s masterpiece”.[61]This is more than simply a past event, for even now “the heart of Christ is alive with the action of the Holy Spirit, to whom Jesus attributed the inspiration of his mission (cf.Lk4:18;Is61:1) and whose sending he had promised at the Last Supper.It is the Spirit who enables us to grasp the richness of the sign of Christ’s pierced side, from which the Church has sprung (cf.Sacrosanctum Concilium, 5)”.[62]In a word, “only the Holy Spirit can open up before us the fullness of the ‘inner man’, which is found in the heart of Christ.He alone can cause our human hearts to draw strength from that fullness, step by step”.[63]
76. If we seek to delve more deeply into the mysterious working of the Spirit, we learn that he groans within us, saying “Abba!”Indeed,“the proof that you are children is that God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’” (Gal4:6).For “the Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Rom8:16).The Holy Spirit at work in Christ’s human heart draws him unceasingly to the Father.When the Spirit unites us to the sentiments of Christ through grace, he makes us sharers in the Son’s relationship to the Father, whereby we receive “a spirit of adoption through which we cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’” (Rom8:15).
77.Our relationship with the heart of Christ is thus changed, thanks to the prompting of the Spirit who guides us to the Father, the source of life and the ultimate wellspring of grace.Christ does not expect us simply to remain in him.His love is “the revelation of the Father’s mercy”,[64]and his desire is that, impelled by the Spirit welling up from his heart, we should ascend to the Father “with him and in him”.We give glory to the Father “through” Christ,[65]“with” Christ,[66]and “in” Christ.[67]Saint John Paul II taught that, “the Saviour’s heart invites us to return to the Father’s love, which is the source of every authentic love”.[68]This is precisely what the Holy Spirit, who comes to us through the heart of Christ, seeks to nurture in our hearts.For this reason, the liturgy, through the enlivening work of the Spirit, always addresses the Father from the risen heart of Christ.
(encyclical - “He Loved Us”)
Readings for next weekend- Sunday, 9 February 2025. (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year C) FIRST READING- Jeremiah 17:5-8 Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4+6 – “In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.” SECOND READING- Galatians 1:11-19 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 7:16) “Alleluia, alleluia! Come follow me, says the Lord. And I will make you fishers of my people.” GOSPEL- Luke 7:11-17 |
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 25”
An ancient medieval practice that developed in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk at the yearly Solemnity of the Epiphany. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
20 + C + M + B + 25 *
*”Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar” (the traditional names of the Three Wise Men)
And also representing the prayer:
*Christus Mansionem Benedicat
May Christ bless this home.
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, ‘25, of this century 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 prayer “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling place/ abode/ home.”
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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)
Archbishop of Brisbane
November 2024
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 |
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:
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
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.
