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“But you have saved the best till now” (John 2:10b)
PASTOR’S POST -
This weekend we hear the wonderful gospel of the Wedding at Cana. This is a profound miracle and a beautiful sign. It is a reminder of God's blessing of marriage, and the gracious generosity of God's love for us, and his joining with us in the joyful and sacred moments of life. Also, what a wonderful miracle to reveal God's message.
Why did Jesus not reserve this amazing sign for a more so-called "important" event, like a dinner where Herod was present, or where Pontius Pilate was there to be convinced beyond doubt of Jesus' credentials? But, of course, that is not God's way. That would be human thinking…
God deliberately chose a humble family wedding in a small and poor village to show the utter fullness of God's glory and graciousness. God's message is for the poor. God's Kingdom is found in the "everyday" and the "ordinary," and the humble shall inherit the Kingdom. It is also for the ordinary people that Jesus came to bring the Good News, just as much as the high and the mighty.
It also says something about the importance of the ordinary, everyday events of our home life, our work life and our social life. God's Kingdom is to be encountered just as much in the everyday and ordinary events of life as in the occasional and the extraordinary events that can occur.
This wedding feast miracle "brought God right into the home circle and into the ordinary things of life. Jesus' action at Cana of Galilee shows what he really thought of a home. God "manifested his glory," and that showing of his true Glory took place within a home. For God, a humble home is a place where nothing but the very best was good enough. It was where he put his best foot forward.
Father Paul
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. We are receiving encouraging advice from the construction assessment which should result in an effective and relatively time efficient repair schedule. We will let you know as soon as more information comes to hand. 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.
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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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 "
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
Image source: https://melbournecatholic.org/jubilee-resources
Jubilee years are a time of newness. They have been celebrated throughout the history of the Church, but their roots go back
to the Old Testament, when the Israelites were commanded to celebrate a jubilee every 50 years.
Beginning with the blowing of a ram’s horn—the yobel, from which the word jubilee comes—on the Day of Atonement, it was meant to be a kind of ‘reset’ or ‘refresh’ for their relationship with God and with each other. Debts would be forgiven, misappropriated land returned, slaves freed, and the land given rest. It was a stark and dramatic reminder for the ancient Israelites that nothing was absolutely theirs—not even the Promised Land.
‘… the land belongs to me,’ God told them, ‘and you are only strangers and guests of mine’
[Lev 25:23]
The Israelites were to live as if everything was a grace and blessing from the God who brought them out of Egypt.
The Jubilee of Jesus
Jesus consciously used the language of jubilee when beginning his ministry. In the synagogue at Nazareth, he stood before the people and read from the prophet Isaiah:
‘The spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to captives, sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim a year of the Lord’s favour’ (Lk 4:18-19).
Through his life, death, and resurrection, what Jesus brought about was a kind of ‘ultimate jubilee’: a time of newness and ‘new creation’ (2 Cor 5:17), a time of abundant mercy for his people until his return in glory. The apostles saw their task as continuing this work of Christ’s jubilee: ‘See, now is the acceptable time; see, now is the day of salvation’ (2 Cor 6:2).
Jubilee in the Church
The first jubilee was celebrated in 1300 AD at the initiative of Pope Boniface VIII. They are celebrated every 25 years in the Church— though the pope may mark ‘extraordinary jubilees’ outside of that— and bear the hallmarks of the ancient spirit of jubilee.
In the tradition of the Church, a Jubilee is proclaimed by a Papal Bull of Indiction. This publication explores the particular themes and focus of the Jubilee. The Bull for Jubilee 2025 is titled Spes non confundit or ‘Hope does not disappoint’ (Rom 5:5)
Pope Francis notes that we, as a pilgrim people, need ‘moments of greater intensity to encourage and sustain hope as the constant companion that guides our steps’ (Spes non confundit §5).
Jubilee years offer those moments of ‘greater intensity’, opportunities to reorient, refresh, and renew our relationship with the Lord and with our neighbours.
One of the important hallmarks of Catholic jubilee years is the availability of the Jubilee Plenary Indulgence.
Pope Francis reminds us that indulgences are ‘a way of discovering the unlimited nature of God’s mercy. Not by chance, for the ancients, the terms “mercy” and “indulgence” were interchangeable, as expressions of the fullness of God’s forgiveness, which knows no bounds’ (SNC 23).
God lavishes us with mercy. He gives us every means of receiving that mercy, and the granting of indulgences by the Church is just one of these. For Jubilee 2025, the conditions of receiving the Jubilee Plenary Indulgence have been greatly expanded to include a number of different prayer, formation, and charitable initiatives.
ADVANCE NOTICE OF LENTEN BOOKLETS FOR PERSONAL OR GROUP REFLECTION
The Parish has ordered these booklets and will be available at piety stalls
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, Helen Dowling, 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):
Noel Patrick Cook, Ann Leticia Owens, Bruce O’Brien, Michael (Mick) McKew, Olivia Olympia Yim, John Rowles, Martha Wagner, Peter Noble, Doreen Kennedy (CWL), Gretchen Doolan, Carmela Parente, Maureen Williams, Christine Lennon, Erin Stein, Anthony Luke Box (33 yrs), Mr Lubomir Stas (60 yrs), Julie Chamberlain, Louis Smith, Daniel Ramos (USA), Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier, Eileen Edmonds.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Wally Bereth, Peter Bernardi , William Rankin Birmingham, Joseph Borg, Margaret Mary Byrnes, Carmelina Callus, Anne Elizabeth Carney, Ivan Michael Clark, Armando Covino, Clifford Archie (Cliff) Cowell, Kenneth Charles Emmerton, Donna Marie Faulkner, Mons Bartholomew Frawley, Nicola Di Giannantonio, Joe Habib, Stan Hancock, Fr John Hegarty, Raymond Cezerẽ (Ray) Hoareau, Malcolm Holmes, Franco Innocenti , Trevor Raymond Karst, Martin James (Jim) Kerlin, Gloria Klaasen , Ted Llewellen , Kenneth John (Ken) Maccheroni, Fr Brian McMullen, John Warren Monahan , Johann Ofner, Dell O’Neill, Grazyna Palac, John Pascoe, Kath Power, Fr Sylvester Ryan, Maurice Stout, Albert Antonio Vosti, Susan-Gai Walsh, Paul Anthony Zappa, Dan Ziebarth.
And Also: (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.
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
Are open before and after all weekend Masses, other times contact the Parish Office.
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.
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:
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:
God’s Spirit is given to each person for the common good. What are your gifts? Be willing to share them for the good of others. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” - [1 Corinthians 12:7]
St. Paul tells us that God has blessed each of us for a reason. How has God blessed you? Are you using your gifts according to God’s plan? How are you helping to build God’s kingdom here on earth? Remember that if you don’t do the work God planned for you, no one else can do it. Live the life God has intended for you. Take time to discern your charisms (gifts from the Holy Spirit). Experience the supernatural Peace and Joy God desires for each of us.
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 - Service with a smile
Service mottos abound, ranging from “The customer is always right” to “Ours is not to question why, ours is but to do or die.” At a particular nuptial celebration in Cana, servants in the middle of a supply crisis were told to follow the instructions of a young man who made puzzling demands of them. As a result of their obedience, ordinary water became fine wine. The crisis turned into a triumph. When we listen to Jesus and act on what we hear—the very definition of “obedience”—marvels ensue. Gospel always starts out sounding incredible, until it’s reality.
“His mother said to the servers, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’ ” [John 2:1-11]
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
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/OQi4BGzXAZyYtK2REs2f?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Readings for Sunday, 19 January 2025 - Second Sunday Ordinary Time. Year C
FIRST READING: Isaiah 62:1-5
Psalm 96:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 9-10ac. "Proclaim his marvellous deeds to all the nations."
SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:14). Alleluia, alleluia! God has called us with the Gospel, to share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
GOSPEL: John 2:1-12
Christ's ministry was an extensive one. His mission was all-encompassing. Its final focus would be nothing less than the fulfilment of his mission through something he described as his great ultimate hour or time.
This hour or time would be when he, as the sacrificial lamb of God, would offer his very self for the life of the world. Christ's great message to us is that God leaves the best for last. And the good news is that at the very last, God will be utterly faithful to us and fulfil all his promises to us.
Everything about God and Christ's earthly life and mission, his suffering, his death, and his resurrection, is top shelf. There are no half measures with God, shown by Jesus's life. No half-baked quality here, but the best of everything for us.
At the very outset of his public ministry, Mary, his beloved mother, asks our Lord to help a wedding couple in a terrible situation. They're in a socially embarrassing situation at their wedding reception. Christ turns this simple act of kindness into a sign of the kingdom and a sign of the meaning of his whole ministry, which is to provide the best wine of mercy, compassion, inclusion, charity and heartfelt invitation into the banquet feast of the kingdom of God.
He is surely asking this question of his mother in an ironic way when he says, why turn to me? My hour has not yet come to provide the best wine of the wedding feast of the kingdom of God, where I will be bridegroom and the people of God will be the bride. Of course, he immediately helps and uses this incident as a foretaste of what is to come, and what a beautiful foretaste it is. If this is just a sample of the kingdom of God, then our minds are truly blown.
We're astounded, and so we should be, with this richness, this graciousness, this absolute non-stinginess that God operates out of all the time. This is what we're invited into. This is what we're invited to become more and more in our own lives and actions too.
This gospel would have to be one of the most delightful and profound passages, and it has so many levels and is rich in symbolism. You can tell from the subtle difference between what is said and what is done, that the translation of this particular incident is complicated, and our traditional translations don't quite capture the full picture of what's going on here. But we can still guess at it, if we could have seen the faces of Jesus and Mary as they spoke, and if we could have observed their body language and the tone of their voice, I am sure the true meaning would be even clearer.
But the clarity is still there. To expand on the situation, this is probably a more accurate picture of what was going on. Mary turned to Jesus and said, they've run out of wine.
Now this situation would be intolerable and utter humiliation to this humble village wedding couple and their families, and a terrible failure of strong traditions of hospitality expected in that time and culture. Mary was clearly feeling for the terrible shame that would have occurred for this poor family. It would have ongoing repercussions for this humble bride and groom at the very start of their lives as a family.
Perhaps they could not afford the sufficient amount of wine required. If we could see Jesus' reaction, it would reveal much. Perhaps better still, this can be more effectively rendered as, my lady, is this the time when I will pour forth the new wine of the kingdom? Surely it's not that time.
He's being ironic and speaking as a prophet. Jesus knows that he's come into the world to usher in the fullness of the kingdom, to pour forth the wine, the new wine of the covenant, sealed in his own blood, poured forth as a ransom for all. He knew that that new wine of the kingdom would only come in its fullness when he had suffered, died and rose again.
I think he would have had a twinkle in his eye and perhaps also a tear in his eye as he noted that this was all ahead of him. It was all yet to come. It would mean his complete self-sacrifice, an utterly generous offering of absolutely all of himself, the absolute completeness of God's gracious love for us.
However, this moment at the wedding would be a little forerunner and sign of the true wine of the kingdom, which is about God's utter faithfulness, God's graciousness and mercy, God's overflowing and immeasurable generosity and kindness, particularly to people who are in a bind. This action is a wonderful sign of God's kingdom of joy, justice and inclusion. The Virgin Mary knew he was going to do something about this situation, for he is graciousness and compassion personified.
Mary trusted in him totally. Our Lady also surely knew that he was going to do greater things in the future, of which this example was only a rich and stunning foretaste. We know that John the Baptist had been preaching the imminent coming of the Messiah.
John the Baptist had actually warned of a time of God's judgment and retribution, of fearful punishment of sins. This wedding miracle, however makes it quite clear that the Messiah will come not with a big stick of judgment but with graciousness, mercy, generosity, compassion, kindness and the joy of a time of great jubilee and celebration. Jesus the Messiah would characterise the kingdom of God as a messianic banquet feast, rather than an apocalyptic time of punishment, judgment, and retribution.
Perhaps Jesus' reply to Mary, remembering that he was still in the very early days of his ministry, also indicated, so is this how it's to be? Not fasting, austerity, punishment and severity, but the overflowing generosity and joy of God's time of favour? So be it. Let's see already unfolding the outpouring of God's overwhelming generosity. Let's see.
Let us taste it. Fill those stone jars over there and let us see which it is to be. For Jesus trusted totally in his heavenly father and was utterly obedient to the father's will, as Mary would certainly have known when she asked the question of Jesus and when she instructed the attendants to do everything he tells you.
Instructions kept to the letter. There's something else too. This is a profound miracle and a beautiful sign.
It's a reminder of God's blessing of marriage, the gracious generosity of God's love for us and his joining with us in the joyful and sacred moments of our lives. What a wonderful miracle to reveal God sitting amongst us and enjoying and blessing marriage and times of joy. Why did Jesus not reserve this amazing sign for a more so-called important event, like a dinner where Herod was present or where Pontius Pilate was there to be convinced beyond doubt of Jesus' credentials? But of course we know the answer to that.
That's not God's ways. That would be human thinking. God deliberately chose a humble family wedding in a small and poor village to show the utter faithfulness of God's glory and graciousness.
God's message is for the poor. God's kingdom is found in the everyday in the ordinary and the humble shall inherit the kingdom. It's also for the ordinary people that Jesus came to bring the good news, just as much for those high and mighty.
It also says something really important about the ordinary everyday events of our home life, our work life and our social life. God's kingdom is to be encountered just as much in the everyday and ordinary events of life as in the occasional and extraordinary events that can occur as well. This wedding feast miracle brought God right down into the home, into the home circle, into the ordinary things of life.
Jesus' action at Cana of Galilee shows what he really thought of the home. God manifested his glory and that showing of his true glory took place within a home. To him, home was a place where nothing but the best was good enough.
It was where he put his best foot forward. We've already seen that hospitality was always a sacred duty in the East. It would have brought unspeakable embarrassment and shame to that home that day if the wine had run out.
It was to save a humble Galilean family from hurt that Jesus put forth his power that day. It was in sympathy, in kindness, in understanding for ordinary humble folk that Jesus always acted.
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References:
Homily by Fr Paul W. Kelly
THE GOSPEL OF JOHN. Volume 1, (Chapters 1 to 7). REVISED EDITION. Translated with an Introduction and Interpretation, by WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS, PHILADELPHIA. 1975.
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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.
(Reference: Fr Paul W. Kelly, Mark Link SJ - ).
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
St Fabian
“It is said that Fabian, after the death of Anteros, came from the country along with others and stayed at Rome, where he came to the office most miraculously, thanks to the divine and heavenly grace. When the brethren were all assembled to appoint him who should succeed to the episcopate, and many notable and distinguished persons were in the thoughts of many, Fabian, who was there, came into nobody’s mind. But all of a sudden, they relate, a dove flew down from above and settled on his head as a clear imitation of the descent of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove upon the Saviour; whereupon the whole people, as if moved by one divine inspiration, with all eagerness and with one soul cried out “worthy,” and without more ado took him and placed him on the episcopal throne.” (Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History, VI: xxix)
St Sebastian,
“Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.” St Sebastian, Martyr (Died C 288) (Last words addressed to his executioners)
St Agnes, Virgin and Martyr
21 January - Memorial
Died at Rome, perhaps in the early fourth century. One of the most widely venerated of the Roman martyrs. According to early accounts, she gave her life to preserve her virginity consecrated to Christ. Remembered in Eucharistic Prayer I (The Roman Canon).
St Vincent, Deacon and Martyr - 22 January -
Optional Memorial - Died in 304, martyred in Valencia (Spain) during the persecution of the emperor Diocletian. A deacon of Saragossa. His cult spread rapidly through the whole Church of the West. Honoured as the first martyr of Spain.
St Francis de Sales
“The measure of love is to love without measure.”
“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them—every day begin the task anew.”
“Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly.”
“Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit.
Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.
What is anything in life compared to the peace of soul?”
“If, when stung by slander or ill-nature, we wax proud and swell with anger, it is a proof that our gentleness and humility are unreal and mere artificial show.”
“The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day.
Either he will shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings.”
“The truly patient man neither complains of his hard lot nor desires to be pitied by others. He speaks of his sufferings in a natural, true, and sincere way, without murmuring, complaining, or exaggerating them.”
“Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself...do not be disheartened by your imperfections, but always rise up with fresh courage.”
“God takes pleasure to see you take your little steps; and like a good father who holds his child by the hand, He will accommodate His steps to yours and will be content to go no faster than you. Why do you worry?”
“You learn to speak by speaking, study by studying, run by running, work by working; and just so, learn to love by loving. All those who think to learn in any other way deceive themselves.”
“Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations, and say continually: The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart has trusted in Him, and I am helped. He is not only with me but in me, and I in Him.”
“It is a fact that people are always well aware of what is due them. Unfortunately, they remain oblivious of what they owe to others.”
“The many troubles in your household will tend to your edification if you strive to bear them all in gentleness, patience, and kindness. Keep this before you, and constantly remember that God's loving eyes are upon you amid all these little worries and vexations, watching whether you take them as He desires. Offer up all such occasions to Him, and if sometimes you are put out, and give way to impatience, do not be discouraged, but make haste to regain your lost composure.”
“Fits of anger, vexation, and bitterness against ourselves tend to pride, and they spring from no other source than self-love, which is disturbed and upset at seeing that it is imperfect.”
“During the night, we must wait for the light.”
“Do not become upset when difficulty comes your way. Laugh in its face and know that you are in the hands of God.”
“Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections.”
“Examine your heart often to see if it is such toward your neighbour as you would like his to be toward you were you in his place. This is the touchstone of true reason.”
“The whole world is not worth one soul.”
“Make friends with the invisible angels who are always with you. Often invoke them, constantly praise them, and use their help and assistance in all your temporal and spiritual affairs.”
“Certainly all virtues are very dear to God, but humility pleases Him above all the others, and it seems that He can refuse it nothing.”
“Humility consists in not esteeming ourselves above other men, and is not seeking to be esteemed above them.”
“It is wonderful how attractive a gentle, pleasant manner is, and how much it wins hearts.”
“Truly it is a blessing to love on earth as we hope to love in Heaven, and to begin that friendship here which is to endure forever there.”
“Do not think that you will be able to succeed in your affairs by your own efforts, but only by the assistance of God; and on setting out, consign yourself to His care, believing that He will do that which will be best for you.”
“Our possessions are not ours- God has given them to us to cultivate, that we may make them fruitful and profitable in His Service, and so doing we shall please Him.”
“Have Jesus always for your patron, His Cross for a mast on which you must spread your resolutions as a sail. Your anchor shall be a profound confidence in Him, and you shall sail prosperously.”
“Let us walk ... joyously, dear souls, among the difficulties of this passing life ... These pains will end when our life ends, after which there will be only joy, contentment, and eternal consolation.”
“We all colour devotion according to our own likings and dispositions. One man sets great value on fasting, and believes himself to be leading a very devout life, so long as he fasts rigorously, although while his heart is full of bitterness;–and while he will not moisten his lips with wine, perhaps not even with water, in his great abstinence, he does not scruple to steep them in his neighbour’s blood, through slander and detraction.”
100 quotes from St Francis de Sales:
1-A “Wherever I go I will find you, my God.” (Explanation of the Method of Interior Prayer: example of an act of faith)
2-A “Often remind yourself that God is with you.” (Letter 87 - to an unnamed Brother, date unknown)
3-A “Often remind yourself that you are in the presence of God.” (Letter 3 - to Brother Denis in Rethel, 30 May 1701)
4-A “Learn from Jesus by often being in his company.” (Med 78.2 - Feast of St Andrew, Apostle)
5-A “It is in the company of Jesus that you work for the glory of God.” (Med 78.2 - Feast of St Andrew, Apostle)
6-A “Remembering that God is with you will help and inspire you in all that you do.” (Letter 2 - to a Brother, 15 May 1701. This letter is the earliest extant letter of the Founder written to a Brother, and the original is preserved in the Provincialate, Oxford) CALLING
7-A “How long has Jesus been knocking at the door of your heart, waiting to enter?” (Med 85.1 - Vigil of the Nativity)
8-A “Prepare a path for God so that he can enter your heart.” (Med 2.1)
9-A “God inspires us to walk in the footsteps of his Son.” (Med 3.3)
10-A “Walk along God’s path.” (Med 75.3)
11-A “Follow the inspirations that come to you from God.” (Letter 86 - to an unnamed Brother, date unknown)
12-A “May God continue what he has begun in you.” (Letter 46 - to Brother Robert in Darnetal, just outside Rouen, 1709)
13-A “You have received talents and graces from God.” (MTR 13.1 [Med 205.1])
14-A “God has given you so many graces.” (Med 51.2)
15-A “God has chosen you to do his work.” (MTR 4.1 [Med 196.1]) 3
16-A “God has chosen you to make him known to others.” (Med 146.2 - on St Anne, mother of the Most Blessed Virgin)
17-A “You are called like the apostles to make God known to others.” (Med 78.2 - Feast of St Andrew, apostle)
18-T “God has called you to your ministry.” (MTR 14.1 [Med 206.1])
19-T “God entrusts to you his care of the young.” (Med 37.3))
20-T “Young people need good teachers, like visible angels.” (MTR 5.1 [Med 197.1])
21-T “To be entrusted with the teaching of the young is a great gift and grace of God.” (MTR 9.1 [Med 201.1])
22-T “Young people need the light of watchful guides to lead them on the path of salvation.” (MTR 5.3 [Med 197.3])
23-T “Have you been helping your disciples practice the good that is appropriate to their age?” (Med 51.2)
24-T “Do your part to help build up the kingdom of God in the hearts of your students.” (Med 67.1)
25-T “This work of teaching is one of the most important in the Church.” (MTR 7.1 [Med 199.1])
26-T “Fulfil your ministry with all the affection of your heart.” (MTR 9.1 [Med 201.1])
27-T “Take pride in your ministry.” (MTR 7.3 [Med 199.3])
28-T “Take care that your school runs well.” (Letter 42 - to Brother Robert in Darnetal, 26 February 1709) PRAYING
29-T “As teachers, you need to be honoured with the friendship of Jesus.” (Med 88.1 - feast of St John the evangelist)
30-A “Show the great love you have for Jesus by being eager to talk with him in prayer.” (Med 144.3 - on St Mary Magdalen) 4
31-A “Say to Jesus as the apostles did: ‘Lord, teach us to pray’.“ (Letter 111 - to a member of a religious community of women, date unknown)
32-A “Each day renew your offering to God.” (Letter 32 - to Brother Gabriel Drolin in Rome: from St Yon [in a suburb of Rouen], 5 December 1716)
33-T “Thank God for the grace he has given you in your work.” (MTR 7.3 [Med 199.3])
34-A “Do not forget to thank God for his many blessings.” (Letter 76 - to a Brother Director, date unknown)
35-A “I have received, my God, so many blessings from you.” (Explanation of the Method of Interior Prayer - example of an act of thanksgiving)
36-A “I shall pray to God for you, and will have many others pray for you and your needs.” (Letter 23 - to Brother Gabriel Drolin in Rome: from Paris, 12 May 1706)
37-A “I will often pray to God for you.” (Letter 58 - to Brother Mathias in Mende: from Paris, 13 January 1708)
38-A “I do not fail to pray for you and for the success of your work.” (Letter 28 - to Bro Gabriel Drolin in Rome: 12 May 1710)
39-A “Let us pray before starting whatever we need to do.” (Med 107.1 - for the feast of St Matthias, apostle)
40-A “The more you devote yourself in prayer the more you will do well in your work.” (Med 95.1 - Feast of St Genevieve)
41-A “Prayer draws down God’s graces on others.” (Letter 5 - to Brother Denis in Darnetal, 5km from Rouen city centre, 1 August 1708)
42-T “Lift up your hands to heaven to draw down God’s blessings on those you are guiding.” (Med 189.1 - feast of St Martin)
43-T “You must pray not only for yourself but also for those whom you are guiding.” (Med 187.2 - feast of St Charles Borromeo)
44-T “Bring to Jesus in prayer the needs of your disciples.” (MTR 4.1 [Med 196.1])
45-T “It is important that you teach your disciples to pray.” (MTR 10.2 [Med 202.2])
46-A “Often ask God for the grace to touch hearts.” (Med 81.2 - feast of St Ambrose of Milan) 5
47-T “When you encounter some difficulty in the guidance of your disciples, turn to God with confidence.” (MTR 4.1 [Med 196.1]) EXAMPLE
48-A “Example makes a much greater impression than words.” (MTR 10.3 [Med 202.3])
49-T “Preach by example, and practice before the eyes of the young what you wish them to accept.” (Med 99.2 - on the life of St John Chrysostom)
50-T “The young should be able to see in your wisdom how they should behave.” (Med 132.1 - on St Norbert)
51-T “The way you behave should be a model for those you teach.” (Med 132.1 - on St Norbert) 52-T “Your faith should be a shining light for those whom you teach.” (Med 178.1 - feast of St Luke, evangelist) BEING FAITHFUL
53-A “The miracles of God’s Providence take place every day.” (Part of the Founder’s address to the first teachers about Providence, as quoted in Blain)
54-A “In the light of faith you see things quite differently.” (Letter 118 - to a laywoman, date unknown)
55-A “Live by the spirit of faith.” (Letter 111 - to a member of a religious community of women, date unknown)
56-A “Let your chief study be the Bible, that it may be the guiding rule of your life.” (Med 170.1 - for the feast of St Jerome)
57-A “Let it be your chief study to put the Gospel into practice.” (Med 171.3 - for the feast of St Remigius, Patron of Rheims)
58-A “Let the way you live be that of the Gospel.” (Med 84.3 - feast of St Thomas, apostle)
59-A “God’s word is powerful in touching hearts.” (Med 180.2 - feast of St Hilarion)
60-A “Receive Jesus today with respect and thanksgiving.” (Med 114.2 - on St Leo)
61-A “Earnestly ask Jesus that his Spirit may be alive in you.” (MTR 4.1 [Med 196.1]) 6
62-A “Think of what a blessing it is that the Holy Spirit lives in you.” (Med 62.2)
63-A “You can do more with the grace of God than you think.” (Collection of Various Short Treatises: Reflections - the use of time)
64-A “Don’t be discouraged by anxieties and troubles. Life is full of them.” (Letter 102 - to an unnamed Brother, date unknown)
65-A “Do not be disheartened by the difficulties you experience.” (Letter 90 - to an unnamed Brother, date unknown)
66-A “Do not have any anxiety about the future. Leave everything in God’s hands for he will take care of you.” (Letter 101 - to an unnamed Brother, date unknown)
67-A “God is more ready than ever to welcome you into his arms.” (Letter 108 - to a member of a religious community of women, date unknown)
68-A “Throw yourself into God’s arms. He will carry you when the road is rough.” (Palm Sunday)
69-A “God’s compassion for you is greater than the troubles you have.” (Med 38.1)
70-A “Leave the result in God’s hands.” (Letter 11 - to Brother Hubert [probably at Chartres]: 20 July 1709) RELATING
71-A “It is impossible to please God if you do not live on friendly terms with others.” (Letter 47 - to Brother Robert in Darnetal, 1709)
72-A “God of love, set me aflame with love for you and for my neighbour.” (Explanation of the Method of Interior Prayer - example of considering Jesus Christ in the form of the Blessed Sacrament)
73-A “Put up with the faults of others and be generous towards them.” (Letter 105 - to a member of a religious community of men, date unknown)
74-A “Be warm-hearted to everyone, speaking to others in a gentle and respectful way.” (Letter 105 - to a member of a religious community of men, date unknown)
75-A “Never speak to anyone except with kindness.” (Med 65.2)
76-A “Always address people by their names and with great respect.” (Rule, Chapter 8) 7
77-A “Have great respect for each person you are with.” (Part 1, Chapter 2 of ‘The Rules of Christian Decorum and Civility’)
78-A “I always have for you the highest esteem and regard.” (Letter 122 - to a layman)
79-A “Your face should be happy, showing gentleness and respect.” (Part 1, Chapter 4 of ‘The Rules of Christian Decorum and Civility’)
80-A “Always show cheerfulness in your face.” (Collection of Various Short Treatises: Virtues - Modesty)
81-A “Inspire and lead others by encouraging them.” (MTR 1:2 [Med 193.2])
82-T “Look upon those whom God has entrusted to you as his own children.” (Med 133.2 - on St Margaret, Queen of Scotland)
83-T “Your students are living images of Jesus.” (Med 80.3 - feast of St Nicholas)
84-T “Are you ready to give your very life, so dear to you are the young people entrusted to you?” (MTR 6.2 [Med 198.2])
85-T “Enkindle the love of Jesus in the hearts of the young.” (Med 102.2 - on St Ignatius, martyr)
86-T “To deal with young people very harshly is to forego all hope of bringing about any good.” (Med 114.2 - on St Leo)
87-T “How to correct others depends on knowledge and discernment of character.” (Med 33.1)
88-T “Some students require great mildness, while others need to be directed with firmness.” (Med 33.1)
89-T “Take care not to let yourself be carried away by impatience in class.” (Letter 60 - to Brother Mathias in Mende: from Paris, 23 March 1708)
90-A “(First-time teachers) should enter the classroom with a deliberate and grave air, head held high and looking at all the students in a bold manner, as if they had thirty years’ experience.” (The Conduct of Schools) 8 TOUCHING HEARTS
91-T ”Know your students individually and be able to understand them.” (Med 33.1)
92-T “Show much kindness and love for the young people you teach.” (Med 134.2 - on St Barnabas)
93-T “Have much care and affection for the young people entrusted to you.” (Med 110.3 - feast of St Joseph)
94-T “By the care you take of your students show that you have a real love for them.” (Med 80.3 - feast of St Nicholas)
95-T “Take even more care of the education of the young people entrusted to you than if they were the children of a king.” (Med 133.2 - on St Margaret, Queen of Scotland)
96-T “You can perform miracles by touching the hearts of those entrusted to your care.” (Med 180.3 - feast of St Hilarion)
97-T “To touch the hearts of your students is the greatest miracle you can perform.” (Med 139.3 - feast of St Peter)
98-T “God expects you to touch hearts.” (Med 139.3 - feast of St Peter)
99-T “The more loving you are to the young, the greater will be the effects of God’s grace.” (Med 134.2 - on St Barnabas)
100-T “Do you build on the affection that the young people have for you to lead them to God?” (Med 101.3 - on the life of St Francis de Sales)
January 25 - F - The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle
This date, first linked with the conversion of Saint Paul in the so-called Martyrdom of Jerome (c. 431), became established in the liturgy of Gaul. Celebrates the work of God's grace at a major turning point in the life of Paul himself and in the history of the infant Church.
Acts 9 tells the story in a third-person narrative: As he neared Damascus on his journey, a light from heaven suddenly flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked.
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."
The men travelling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Paul got up from the ground, but he could see nothing when he opened his eyes. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days, he was blind and did not eat or drink anything. — Acts 9:3–9, NIV[13]
POPE FRANCIS:
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Pope article:
Encyclical continued
A LOVE THAT IS TANGIBLE
59. On the other hand, love and the human heart do not always go together, since hatred, indifference and selfishness can also reign in our hearts.Yet we cannot attain our fulfilment as human beings unless we open our hearts to others; only through love do we become fully ourselves.The deepest part of us, created for love, will fulfil God’s plan only if we learn to love.And the heart is the symbol of that love.
60. The eternal Son of God, in his utter transcendence, chose to love each of us with a human heart.His human emotions became the sacrament of that infinite and endless love.His heart, then, is not merely a symbol for some disembodied spiritual truth.In gazing upon the Lord’s heart, we contemplate a physical reality, his human flesh, which enables him to possess genuine human emotions and feelings, like ourselves, albeit fully transformed by his divine love.Our devotion must ascend to the infinite love of the Person of the Son of God, yet we need to keep in mind that his divine love is inseparable from his human love.The image of his heart of flesh helps us to do precisely this.
61. Since the heart continues to be seen in the popular mind as the affective centre of each human being, it remains the best means of signifying the divine love of Christ, united forever and inseparably to his wholly human love.Pius XII observed that the Gospel, in referring to the love of Christ’s heart, speaks “not only of divine charity but also human affection”.Indeed, “the heart of Jesus Christ, hypostatically united to the divine Person of the Word, beyond doubt throbbed with love and every other tender affection”.[36]
62. The Fathers of the Church, opposing those who denied or downplayed the true humanity of Christ, insisted on the concrete and tangible reality of the Lord’s human affections.Saint Basil emphasized that the Lord’s incarnation was not something fanciful, and that “the Lord possessed our natural affections”.[37]Saint John Chrysostom pointed to an example: “Had he not possessed our nature, he would not have experienced sadness from time to time”.[38]Saint Ambrose stated that “in taking a soul, he took on the passions of the soul”.[39]For Saint Augustine, our human affections, which Christ assumed, are now open to the life of grace: “The Lord Jesus assumed these affections of our human weakness, as he did the flesh of our human weakness, not out of necessity, but consciously and freely...lest any who feel grief and sorrow amid the trials of life should think themselves separated from his grace”.[40]Finally, Saint John Damascene viewed the genuine affections shown by Christ in his humanity as proof that he assumed our nature in its entirety in order to redeem and transform it in its entirety: Christ, then, assumed all that is part of human nature, so that all might be sanctified.[41]
63. Here, we can benefit from the thoughts of a theologian who maintains that, “due to the influence of Greek thought, theology long relegated the body and feelings to the world of the pre-human or sub-human or potentially inhuman; yet what theology did not resolve in theory, spirituality resolved in practice.This, together with popular piety, preserved the relationship with the corporal, psychological and historical reality of Jesus.The Stations of the Cross, devotion to Christ’s wounds, his Precious Blood and his Sacred Heart, and a variety of Eucharist devotions... all bridged the gaps in theology by nourishing our hearts and imagination, our tender love for Christ, our hope and memory, our desires and feelings.Reason and logic took other directions”.[42]
(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
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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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