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“You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:22)
(Image Credit: https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/K9m0WLVJHbTzZgScvVHv?ru=Paul-Evangelion)
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.
PASTOR’S POST - From Fr Anthony Odionyenfe
A special message by Associate Pastor Anthony Odionyenfe - as he leaves Surfers to take up his role as Parish Priest of St John’s Wood, The Gap, in Brisbane’s North.
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
I write this weekend’s priest’s note with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for the memories and the stories of faith that we’ve created for and with each other and have shared with each other this past one plus year that I’ve ministered with you. At the start it was just this young African bloke coming into a new setting not really sure of what he was going to get. But along this one year plus it’s been a story of friendship, faith, love and hope.
Personally, it’s been a learning process for me and would continue to be cos we never stop learning.
As I come to the end of my ministry in your midst this weekend, I would like to say that this is not a “good-bye” note. Rather it is a note of deep thanks for everything. I think at this point I lack the proper words to express how I feel deeply but I would like to say it’s a pleasure to have ministered in your midst and to have shared in your faith-story as a parish and on individual basis. Each day that I stood on the sanctuary to celebrate the eucharist, and beyond I experienced not only your faith but your welcoming smile, embrace of love and care, your ever presence, your prayers and friendship. It felt like home- in fact it is home.
Thank you, dear brother priests for your brotherly care and the opportunity to have ministered with you for this past one year. Thank you, dear parish staff and council, for the time. It’sbeen an absolute sublime experience and a unique one I must say. Thank you, dear sacristans and mass coordinators, for your presence and help.
Thank you immensely, dear school staff and students for the opportunity to be part of the school community. You’ve a great teamwork and a good team spirit. Keep it going.
Thank you, Father Paul for being a brother and a source of inspiration to me. You’ve a good sense of humour and a childlike spirit. This is something I will need to learn cos it’s a good tool to navigate a foggy weather. It was an absolute experience.
As I sojourn in my new role of ministry in Saint John’s Wood/The Gap, I will carry with me your love and friendship. Your faith did inspire me every day and would continue to. Please always keep me in your prayers as I keep you in mine.
2025, the jubilee year of hope as declared by Pope Francis is a significant one indeed. We have already shared our prospects for the year that is, “to look out with hope for that which is redeemable in us and in each other and to do the best we can to redeem it, or them as the case may be. Its seems dauting but it is something that we can achieve if we are intentional about it”. So, let’s do it as much as we can. Thank you and remain blessed.
Father Anthony
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. 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.
As well as repairing the damage, we also have to ensure that further collapse does not occur and that the church is safe for access. We appreciate your patience and understanding at this time.
Stella Maris Church Damage
Our apologies for any inconvenience. Fortunately this happened during the night when the church was closed, and after the busy Christmas period. The whole ceiling needs an engineering inspection and then decision about repairs. We are not yet able to estimate the length of 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.
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Rest in eternal Peace -Carmela Parente (née Covino)
Requiem Mass -Sacred Heart Catholic Church – Clear Island Waters.
This Monday 13th January 2025. At 11 am
PLEASE PRAY FOR THE REPOSE OF THE SOUL OF PARISHIONER
Lubomir Stas - (8th December 1964- 24th December 2024)
Mr Lubomir Stas. His funeral was held Monday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Clear Island Waters. [Last Monday 6th January 2025]
We pray for the consolation and strength of his beloved mother Margita, and his sisters Milena and Maria and their families, and his wife Katarina, and daughter Veronika and son Marek and beloved granddaughter Willow, and all the family, colleagues and friends. May he Rest in Peace. Amen.
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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2025 Brisbane Sinulog Festival in honour of the Feast of the Holy Child
is on Sunday, 19 January 2025 at St. Stephen's Cathedral 249 Elizabeth St. Brisbane City. (1:30pm Novena to Sr. Sto. Nino; 2:00pm Holy Mass; 3:15pmCathedral grounds Parade/Procession; 3:45pm Sinulog Cultural Performances; 4:45pmRefreshments (bring a plate to share). You may bring your Sto. Nino images/icons for blessing/procession and come in Filipiniana attire. Further info: Glenn 0468820333; Paul 0450957181; and Jima 0432374239 "
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)
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Focusing the Word this weekend
Key words and phrases
Someone more powerful is coming.
He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
You are my Son, the Beloved. My favour rests on you.
Prepare. Make straight.
Here is the Lord coming with power.
The earth is full of your riches.
You renew the face of the earth.
To the point
The gospel speaks of two baptisms. The first is the event this feast celebrates: the baptism Jesus received. The second is the baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire which we receive. Just as Jesus' baptism revealed him as 'beloved Son', our own baptism reveals us as ones who are saved, renewed, justified, and heirs of eternal life (see second reading). In this sense baptism is an epiphany.
Connecting the Word to Ordinary Time
The whole Christmas season now ended has opened up for us God's many and wondrous gifts to us. We begin Ordinary Time now in the strength of these gifts.
To Catholic culture
Baptism is more than a ritual moment on a specific day; it is a gift of divine life which God continuously sustains with yet more gifts to which we must respond daily.
Understanding the Word
Baptism and identity
John had preached a 'baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins'. Obviously, this would present a problem for Jesus to undergo such a baptism. Luke resolves this problem differently from the other evangelists. In Luke 3:19-20 (omitted from this Sunday's gospel), Luke informs his readers that John had been arrested and imprisoned by Herod. The baptism that Jesus receives is not John's baptism.
In Mark's gospel the story of Jesus begins with his baptism and so that event is a disclosure of his identity. But in Luke's gospel readers have already been told several times who Jesus is. In the annunciation Gabriel tells Mary that the child to be born will be called 'Son of the Most High' (1:32) and 'the Son of God' (1:36). The child Jesus, when found in the Temple, tells his anxious parents that he is in 'my Father's house' (2:49). The voice heard at the baptism, then, is a confirmation of the identity of Jesus: 'You are my beloved Son'.
Only Luke indicates that God's voice is heard and the Spirit is seen while Jesus is in prayer; later, in the transfiguration, Jesus will once again be deep in prayer when the heavenly voice announces, 'This is my chosen Son' (9:35). It is worth noting that it is while the disciples are at prayer that the Holy Spirit descends upon them at Pentecost (Acts 1:14; 2:1-5). Prayer confirms (for Jesus) and discloses (to others) the identity of Jesus. A similar dynamic is at work in the lives of disciples: baptism is a public act by which disciples become children of God (1 John 3:2). The second reading makes the same point with different language: 'God saved us through the bath of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he richly poured out on us through Jesus Christ our Saviour, so that we might . . . become heirs in hope of eternal life' (Titus 3:5-7). Disciples, in imitation of their Master, find in prayer an affirmation of their baptismal identity and undertake their ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.
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
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
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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 re-opened 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 Jubilee Prayer
Father in heaven,
may the faith you have given us
in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,
and the flame of charity enkindled
in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
reawaken in us the blessed hope
for the coming of your Kingdom.
May your grace transform us
into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.
May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos
in the sure expectation
of a new heaven and a new earth,
when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,
your glory will shine eternally.
May the grace of the Jubilee
reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,
a yearning for the treasures of heaven.
May that same grace spread
the joy and peace of our Redeemer
throughout the earth.
To you our God, eternally blessed,
be glory and praise for ever.
Amen
Pope Francis opens the Jubilee Door at Saint Peters, Rome
ADVANCE NOTICE OF LENTEN BOOKLETS FOR PERSONAL OR GROUP REFLECTION
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.
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, 7/2/2025, 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 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.
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, Phillip Brady, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Lee Capri, 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, Alvin Lee, Nathan Lepp, Veronica Lubomski, Ron McConnell, l McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, 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, Karsten Rickert, Bob Rogers, Miranda Santi, Maureen Scott, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Doreen Kennedy (CWL), Gretchen Doolan, Carmela Parente, Maureen Williams, Christine Lennon, Erin Stein, Anthony Luke Box (33 yrs), Mr Lubomir Stas (60 yrs), Maureen Williams, Julie Chamberlain, Louis Smith, Daniel Ramos (USA), Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier, Eileen Edmonds.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Brendan David Fitzhardinge Berkeley, Alfredo Boluso, Joe Borg, Carmen Callus, Mons Leo Carlton, Thomas Stephen Carney, Joseph Conti, Rita Conway, Geraldine Coyne, Donna Maria Cross, Joan Cumner, Lionel Ernest Cunynghame, Joseph Johannes Em van Deurse, Rebecca Duazo, Antonio Falcone, Joseph Nicholas (Joe) Friedman, Ronald John Grigalius, Christine Lucy Harding, Joan Denise Hegerty, Bernadette Hennessey, Deris Eunice Howell, Stanley James Jackson, Leonie Jackson, Helena Lema, Josephine Lenaghan, Brian Mayhew, Nell McLeod, Brian Miller, Thomas Lloyd Muggleton, David John Newlands, Edmund O’Brien, Patrick John O’Connell, Mirko Papak, Margaret Paterson, Garth Stanley Rippin, Michael Samuel, Renato Santelises, Shirley Mary Selby, Trevor David Simes, Anna Snelleksz, Gwendoline (Gwen) Stevens, Rafael Toda, Jeanette Louise Vial, Marce Wockner.
And Also: (Alphabetical):
Granville Cordoza, Russell Albury, Daphne Iris Ardilley, Fr Norman Ronald Birch, Pauline Bocking, Remo Bos, Fr Ray Brain, Christine Carberry, Terry Conway, Fr Reginald Copley, Melinda Craig, Walter Leslie Davis, Veronica Frances (Frances) Dawson, Elvira Fantinelli, Rosalia Archetto Feo , Luciano Freda, Kevin Gleeson, John Gordon, Margaret Mary Kelly, Charmaine Jannette Leafe, Rex Joseph McShane, Colin Meneely, Carol Ann Newman, Violet Mary Nickson, Barry Owens, Doris Angela Pace-Balzan, Sergio Di Pietro, Trevor Ralfe, Sylvia Sciberras , Pamela Elane Shelton, Nicole Simmons, Veronica Junette Smith, Dale Strode, Donald Ralph Thomas, Sally Tristram, Fr Cornelius Whyte, James Woodhouse.
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
Thank you to everyone for the support given to the two Religious Goods Shops in our Parish, located at the Sacred Heart Church at Clear Island Waters and St Vincent’s Church at Surfers Paradise. Both shops are open before and after Mass every weekend.
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, 7/02/25, 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, 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.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP (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- (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 -
(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:
13/01/25 Maxine & Patrick Sela
20/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
27/01/25 Nardine & Aylene
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
(Resumes 21st January 2025)
Join Rochelle for a fun, functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65’s. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE. -
The Bible Study Prayer Group usually meets every Wednesday from 5-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church (40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise). The group will be changing the day to Fridays from 17th January - 5pm until 6pm.
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 (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
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 Jesus, you are called God’s beloved. Renew your baptismal commitment and pray for those discerning a call to priesthood or religious life.
(Luke 3:15-16, 21-22)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
The Baptism of Our Lord.
“John answered them all, ‘I baptize you with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming…he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit... ’” - Luke 3:16
The Catholic Catechism states that “Jesus’ immersion in the water is a sign for all human beings of the need to die to themselves to do God’s will.” In other words, as baptized Catholics there is only one gift that we need to give to Jesus – the gift of ourselves. Surrender yourself to God, place your trust in Him and allow the Holy Spirit to work through you for the greater glory of God.
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Get into the spirit of your Baptism.
“I am baptising you with water, but one mightier than I is coming . . . . He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22).
The Rite of Baptism is our initiation into the Christian community of the church. As baptised persons, we are part of the “one spirit” that makes us members of the Body of Christ and each other. And with this gift of baptism, we have a responsibility to carry out the light and love of Christ in the world. What does that look like? A welcome to the stranger, an embrace of an enemy, a sacrifice for the sake of another. Let the spirit of your Baptism light a fire of love under you!
FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" DAILY - www.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe
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.
GOSPEL THIS WEEKEND
Homily: Baptism of the LordYear C - Sunday, 12 January 2025
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pDMlAHLRvoMCYn9loxYF/the-holy-spirit-descended-on-him-in-bodily-form-like-a-dove-and-a-voice-came-from-heaven-you-are-my-?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Readings for Sunday, - The Baptism of the Lord. Year C. (first Sunday of Ordinary Time)
FIRST READING: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Psalm 104:1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27+28, 29-30. "Oh, bless the Lord, my soul!"
SECOND READING: Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 3:16). Alleluia, alleluia! John said: He who is to come is mightier than I. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
GOSPEL: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
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(Fr Paul Kelly)
In Luke's Gospel, the voice of the Father is heard not when Jesus was being Baptised or even when he was arising from the waters, but afterwards, when Jesus is praying.
In fact, in Luke's Gospel, this happens at key moments when the true identity of Christ is revealed, that Jesus is shown to be praying!
We witness it here in today's Gospel, as he prays after his baptism and again at the Transfiguration, and later, even the Apostles, too, receive the Holy Spirit when gathered in prayer at Pentecost.
In prayer, Christ's identity is revealed as the Father's beloved son. For us, his disciples, prayer renews and connects us to God, is an affirmation (and renewal) of our baptismal identity (as children of God), and strengthens us to undertake our ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.^
One Scripture commentator says that in relation to this Gospel today, "We are told that God rends the heavens to lavish praise on his son— a son who, up to that point, had yet to accomplish much of anything." It must have been indescribably affirming and motivating for Jesus as he was about to begin his most challenging and self-emptying ministry.
Of course, Jesus is God, and he was also fully human. As a human he was as much in need of encouragement, affirmation and strength from his beloved Father in heaven. This Father also is the father of all things…..
Jesus was now officially commissioned in his earthly ministry (by none less than God the Heavenly Father)/ Commissioned for this incredibly difficult ministry, and Our Lord was absolutely assured of the love and confidence of his Father….and could begin his ministry confident that the Father was completely pleased with him and 100% behind what he was doing." (Patrice J. Tuohy).
It is a timely reminder that sincere and constructive affirmation and encouragement are essential human needs. We live in a culture where it seems easier to voice criticisms. For far too many people, if they are not happy with something, criticism occurs swiftly, but if they are not unhappy with something, it is not so much praise that follows but rather deafening silence. We live in a world where there is too often either criticism or silence. People who live without affirmation or who live with constant criticism, they can easily get the message that nothing they do is ever going to be good enough. However, there is a difference between true affirmation and mere compliments. A compliment can be a pleasant thing to say (sometimes a compliment is not even remotely accurate, but it is something nice that another person might say, just to be 'pleasant'). In contrast, a true affirmation actually confirms the truth as seen and experienced by another. Affirmation and constructive criticism is far better than untrue compliments and a world away from undermining negativity.
False praise is also very unhelpful. A person who relies on praise that is not based in reality is misled and denied the chance to hone their skills. The person can be quite deceived about how they are really doing or how they may actually be affecting others; for the better or worse. And then there are those who get good, positive feedback and affirmation. This is priceless and truly affirming. Even when setbacks and the occasional mistake or failure come their way, the person who has healthy feedback and honest affirmation and information, can develop resilience, and is not defeated, because they have firm foundations for their belief in their abilities and their inner value and the strength of their own worth. A person who receives this constructive affirmation and even constructive and sensitive criticism will persevere through many struggles and challenges to increase in excellence.
Our Baptism is intended to be a formal and real adoption into God's family and a true affirmation of our dignity as beloved children of God. God thirsts to give this to each and every person in the world for they are all his cherished children. Baptism has a real, permanent and practical effect on our lives. Our baptism, echoing Jesus' action in the Jordan, is a huge "Yes" by us and even more importantly - it follows a profound YES by God towards us. We are saying "yes!" - we too want to share Christ's life. Yes, we wish to truly immerse ourselves in the values and 'movement towards God' that Christ's Good News embodies. We want to be united with Jesus who is utterly committed to the establishment of God's loving, just and merciful Kingdom in all its fullness. And we too, are aware of the necessity of the Cross, which is the unavoidable cost of that commitment. There is always going to be a worthwhile cost and the reality of suffering in any love that serves and gives completely. Love that suffers, and actions that give completely of self, are founded firmly in Christ. Baptism into Jesus is an infinitely more profound action than what was done by people such as John and his disciples. Although a powerful forerunner to Christ's action, John's baptism was a sign of conversion to, and commitment to God's Kingdom, and also, for almost everyone requesting it, a powerful sign of their repentance of sin. These baptisms were powerful but symbolic. They were repeatable. But Baptism into Jesus that we receive, is once and for all. It is a true and effective grafting into the life of Christ, the life of God.
Jesus made holy the waters of baptism, by investing this beautiful action with himself and pouring into the water everything He stands is and everything for which he stands.
Let us ask Our Lord to keep us committed to his vision of the Kingdom in all ways and at all times, in thought, word and deed.
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References:
Homily by Fr Paul W. Kelly
The New Community Bible. 2012. Strathfield, N.S.W.: St. Pauls. ^
Liturgia Commentary. Baptism of the Lord Year C. Liturgy Brisbane. © Copyright Liturgy Brisbane 2018;
THE DAILY STUDY BIBLE. GOSPEL OF LUKE. (REVISED EDITION). BY WILLIAM BARCLAY;
SHARING THE WORD THROUGH THE LITURGICAL YEAR. GUSTAVO GUTIERREZ;
2010 – A BOOK OF GRACE-FILLED DAYS. BY Alice Camille;
PATRICE J. TUOHY, PrepareTheWord.com, 2008, TrueQuest Communications, LLC
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.
(Reference: Fr Paul W. Kelly, Mark Link SJ - ).
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
January 13 - m - Saint Hilary, bishop and doctor of the Church.
The word is out. Saint Hilary, born in Poitiers in southwest France in 315, had a learned education but was not raised a Christian. Able to read biblical languages. However, he was drawn to Christianity by the beauty and power of the prologue of the Gospel of John (John 1:1-18) and spent his life in strong defence of the divinity of Jesus, a controversial subject at the time. Recognition of his tireless efforts eventually earned him the high title of Doctor of the Church. Perhaps John’s prologue has a word to speak to you as well. Why not dip into its powerful language today?
Be gracious in your disagreements. Catholics of the 21st century profess the belief that Jesus is both human and divine every time we recite the Nicene Creed at Mass. However, that profession of faith was challenged mightily in the fourth century when followers of Arius argued that Jesus was a great man—but not God. The conflict involved bishops and emperors on both sides and it went on for years. Hilary of Poitiers converted to Christianity at the age of 35 and was elected a bishop three years later. Hilary was a friendly and courteous man who persistently championed belief in Jesus’ divinity. Even exile did not silence his voice. In our own times of conflict and division, Saint Hilary, guide us to God’s grace. “For this purpose have I come.” (John 18:37).
“Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, pick up your mat and walk’?” (Mark 2:1-12)
St Anthony of Egypt - Anthony the Great
A time is coming when men will go mad, and when they see someone who is not mad, they will attack him, saying, "You are mad; you are not like us."
To say that God turns away from the sinful is like saying that the sun hides from the blind.
The fruits of the earth are not brought to perfection immediately, but by time, rain and care; similarly, the fruits of men ripen through ascetic practice, study, time, perseverance, self-control and patience.
The person who abides in solitude and quiet is delivered from fighting three battles: hearing, speech, and sight. Then there remains one battle to fight the battle of the heart.
I saw the snares that the enemy spreads out over the world, and I said, groaning, "What can get through from such snares?" Then I heard a voice saying to me, "Humility.
When you lie down on your bed to sleep, remember with thanksgiving the blessings and the providence of God.
Whoever you may be, always have God before your eyes; whatever you do, do it according to the testimony of the Holy Scriptures; in whatever place you live, do not easily leave it. Keep these three precepts, and you will be saved.
Regard as free not those whose status makes them outwardly free but those who are free in their character and conduct. We should not call men truly free when wicked and dissolute since they are slaves to worldly passions. Freedom and happiness of the soul consist in genuine purity and detachment from transitory things.
When Abba Anthony thought about the depths of the judgments of God, he asked, 'Lord, how is it that some die when they are young, while others drag on to extreme old age? Why are there those who are poor and those who are rich? Why do wicked men prosper, and why are the just in need?' He heard a voice answering him, 'Antony, keep your attention on yourself; these things are according to the judgment of God, and it is not to your advantage to know anything about them.'
Our life and our death are with our neighbour. If we gain our brother, we have gained God, but if we scandalise our brother, we have sinned against Christ.
. . . you should know that there is present with you the angel whom God has appointed for each man. This angel, who is sleepless and cannot be deceived, is always present with you; he sees all things and is not hindered by darkness. You should know, too, that with him is God.
This is the great work of a man: always to take the blame for his own sins before God and to expect temptation to his last breath.
Intelligent people do not need to listen to much talk but should attend only to the profitable and be guided by God's will.
One should not say that it is impossible to reach a virtuous life, but one should say that it is not easy. Nor do those who have reached it find it easy to maintain.
God's Providence controls the universe. It is present everywhere. Providence is the sovereign WORD of God, imprinting form on the unformed materiality of the world, making and fashioning all things. The matter could not have acquired an articulated structure were it not for the directing power of the Logos who is the Image, Intellect, Wisdom, and Providence of God.
POPE FRANCIS:
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/pIfdYxiAbZr5HqJFgMe1/pope-francis-blesses-the-people?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Pope article:
Encyclical continued
VENERATING HIS IMAGE
52. While the image of Christ and his heart is not in itself an object of worship, neither is it simply one among many other possible images.It was not devised at a desk or designed by an artist; it is “no imaginary symbol, but a real symbol which represents the centre, the source from which salvation flowed for all humanity”.[32]
53. Universal human experience has made the image of the heart something unique.Indeed, throughout history and in different parts of the world, it has become a symbol of personal intimacy, affection, emotional attachment and capacity for love. Transcending all scientific explanations, a hand placed on the heart of a friend expresses special affection: when two persons fall in love and draw close to one another, their hearts beat faster; when we are abandoned or deceived by someone we love, our hearts sink.So too, when we want to say something deeply personal, we often say that we are speaking “from the heart”.The language of poetry reflects the power of these experiences.In the course of history, the heart has taken on unique symbolic value that is more than merely conventional.
54. It is understandable, then, that the Church has chosen the image of the heart to represent the human and divine love of Jesus Christ and the inmost core of his Person.Yet, while the depiction of a heart afire may be an eloquent symbol of the burning love of Jesus Christ, it is important that this heart not be represented apart from him.In this way, his summons to a personal relationship of encounter and dialogue will become all the more meaningful.[33]The venerable image portraying Christ holding out his loving heart also shows him looking directly at us, inviting us to encounter, dialogue and trust; it shows his strong hands capable of supporting us and his lips that speak personally to each of us.
55. The heart, too, has the advantage of being immediately recognizable as the profound unifying centre of the body, an expression of the totality of the person, unlike other individual organs.As a part that stands for the whole, we could easily misinterpret it, were we to contemplate it apart from the Lord himself.The image of the heart should lead us to contemplate Christ in all the beauty and richness of his humanity and divinity.
56. Whatever particular aesthetic qualities we may ascribe to various portrayals of Christ’s heart when we pray before them, it is not the case that “something is sought from them or that blind trust is put in images as once was done by the Gentiles”.Rather, “through these images that we kiss, and before which we kneel and uncover our heads, we are adoring Christ”.[34]
57. Certain of these representations may indeed strike us as tasteless and not particularly conducive to affection or prayer.Yet this is of little importance, since they are only invitations to prayer, and, to cite an Eastern proverb, we should not limit our gaze to the finger that points us to the moon.Whereas the Eucharist is a real presence to be worshiped, sacred images, albeit blessed, point beyond themselves, inviting us to lift up our hearts and to unite them to the heart of the living Christ.The image we venerate thus serves as a summons to make room for an encounter with Christ, and to worship him in whatever way we wish to picture him.Standing before the image, we stand before Christ, and in his presence, “love pauses, contemplates mystery, and enjoys it in silence”.[35]
58. At the same time, we must never forget that the image of the heart speaks to us of the flesh and of earthly realities.In this way, it points us to the God who wished to become one of us, a part of our history, and a companion on our earthly journey.A more abstract or stylized form of devotion would not necessarily be more faithful to the Gospel, for in this eloquent and tangible sign we see how God willed to reveal himself and to draw close to us.
(encyclical - “He Loved Us”)
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)
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.
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