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“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?”
{Luke 12:25}
Image Credit- https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/3vGI4y2vYtBoJuXv4Yv3/australia-day-national-holi
PASTOR’S POST -
My Country – I love a sunburnt country
The love of field and coppice,
Of green and shaded lanes.
Of ordered woods and gardens
Is running in your veins,
Strong love of grey-blue distance
Brown streams and soft, dim skies
I know but cannot share it,
My love is otherwise.
I love a sunburnt country,
A land of sweeping plains,
Of ragged mountain ranges,
Of drought and flooding rains.
I love her far horizons,
I love her jewel-sea,
Her beauty and her terror –
The wide brown land for me!
A stark white ring-barked forest
All tragic to the moon,
The sapphire-misted mountains,
The hot gold hush of noon.
Green tangle of the brushes,
Where lithe lianas coil,
And orchids deck the tree-tops
And ferns the warm dark soil.
Core of my heart, my country!
Her pitiless blue sky,
When sick at heart, around us
We see the cattle die –
But then the grey clouds gather,
And we can bless again
The drumming of an army,
The steady, soaking rain.
Core of my heart, my country!
Land of the Rainbow Gold,
For flood and fire and famine,
She pays us back threefold –
Over the thirsty paddocks,
Watch, after many days,
The filmy veil of greenness
That thickens as we gaze.
(Dorothea Mackellar)
Lord, open the hearts of people everywhere so that Your graciousness, generosity, and compassion will "rain down everywhere" through their acts of charity, generosity, and practical care, including much-needed financial assistance. Grant harmony, goodwill, peace, and a sense of shared fraternity among all people in our nation, especially the Indigenous communities who are a wonderful gift and treasure to us all. We also pray for peace and harmony among nations.
The heat, the threat of devastating bushfires, and drought are constant concerns in this great Southern Land. They weigh heavily on many people and communities, leading to incredible hardship. We continue to pray for rain in the areas that are in desperate need.
Today, we thank God for the many gifts we have received and are reminded that we live in a commonwealth meant for the common good. The gifts we possess are meant to be shared with one another. The blessings that individuals, communities, and nations have can be shared with us so that together we can have all that we need. We can extend our gifts to those who are less fortunate, ensuring that we all enjoy the fullness of what is required.
We pray that people everywhere will deepen their sense of belonging to a commonwealth for the common good, fostering peace, respect, harmony, and care for others in our society. May we always remember the less fortunate, whether they are our neighbors or those in distant lands.
Today, as every day, we pray that our nation and its people develop a deep yearning for the values of Jesus' Beatitudes: humility, gentleness, a passion and commitment to justice, a desire to be peacemakers, and a spirit of mercy that reflects Your forbearance by offering new beginnings to others. May we be single-minded in serving Your vision for the world, respecting the dignity of all, caring for our resources, treating others as we would wish to be treated, and keeping our hearts open to those facing greater hardships than ourselves, both in our nation and among our sister nations around the globe.
Let us take a moment to pause and give thanks for God's many gifts in this blessed Southern land of the Holy Spirit.
Father Paul
****Next weekend (2nd February) is the Solemnity of the Presentation of the Lord Jesus in the temple. Traditionally, candles are blessed at these masses. Next weekend, please bring your candles for blessing on this traditional Feast day.
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The Stella Maris Church is closed until further notice - for repairs and safety assessment of the whole ceiling.
There will be no masses this weekend at the Broadbeach church, or in the future, until the problem is resolved. 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.
WELCOME! Fr Bradley settles into life here at Surfers Paradise
MISSING SOMETHING? IT MAY BE IN OUR LOST AND FOUND COLLECTION
HELP NEEDED - RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN STATE SCHOOLS
• Short A/V clip https://biteable.com/watch/4339969/c0115c566fdd0fc9f35f9db7149f7c76
NEW VOLUNTEERS No previous experience is required, as new volunteers receive training. They are mentored by experienced instructors, until confident to teach by themselves.
WHAT WE DO The key themes of the Bible and the Christian Faith are clearly explained using “Christian Education Publications” (CEP) curricula that have been developed for this purpose. The children’s lessons are age-related and non-denominational. Students are encouraged to make connections with the Bible teaching, and they may apply the learning to their lives.
Children engage with the truths of the Bible week by week through music, drama, reading and writing, puzzle solving, drawing, asking questions and primarily through listening to enthusiastic story telling. The lessons are usually for 30minutes each week.
TRAINING Information and Start-up Training sessions commence from Thursday 30th January and on various dates until Thursday 6th February for a 3-hour introduction.
FOLLOW UP Those interested are invited to contact:
Helene McCowan Mob 0419 747 631
Email: helene.mccowan@gmail.com
IN SUMMARY We simply need more hands to help. This is an awesome opportunity to bring the word of God to the children in our State Schools. Our goal is that none miss out and that we provide excellent programmes to the glory of God. I am happy to speak with you if you have any questions. Sincerely, Helene.
To tune in to The Our parish Podcast of the Mass for Sundays and Solemnities, please visit regularly the following link: To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
Also found at - https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk
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Vanuatu Earthquake Appeal
Vanuatu has experienced two earthquakes within 24 hours impacting over 116,000 people and causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The main hospital in Port Vila has sustained extensive damage and is overwhelmed by the mass casualties.
Hundreds of people have been injured or trapped under rubble and at least 14 people deceased with the death toll expected to continue to rise. People remain fearful of further disaster, as Vanuatu is one of the most susceptible countries to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding, and tsunamis.
This appeal will provide support to our on the ground partners who are ready to respond to the humanitarian requirements by providing emergency shelter, food and other essentials, psychosocial support, and recovery efforts.
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 reopened in the old Atrium building. This allows community building whilst giving the church the space it needs for its Masses, Weddings, Baptisms and solemn Funerals. Please support this excellent continuation of the parish vision. Chris and his staff are delighted to welcome you.
{https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en/pellegrinaggio/calendario-giubileo.html}
Jubilee 2025
The 2025 Jubilee Year, also known as the Year of the Pilgrim of Hope, is a time to celebrate faith, hope, and charity.
Here are some ways to celebrate the 2025 Jubilee:
reflect and pray upon a wrong you have had done against you by a person or persons. ask for the Lord's grace to heal your heart and allow you to forgive. in the spirit of jubilee, make a conscious decision to forgive that hurt and specifically decide to let that hurt go and not hold it against the other person from now. And my God's spirit of healing and peace enfold you and all affected by this wrong.
LENTEN BOOKLETS FOR PERSONAL OR GROUP REFLECTION
AVAILABLE NOW AT THE PIETY SHOPS. $5.
Or https://shop.archdiocesanministries.org.au/products/lent-2025-start-anew-in-christ-pre-order
FANS and DOORS in OUR CHURCHES
It's that time of year again. Please note that the church has a policy regarding fans, windows, and doors.
DURING CHURCH SERVICES - FANS IN THE CHURCH DURING the HOT WEATHER ARE TO BE LEFT ON PLEASE AND DOORS TO BE LEFT OPEN PLEASE FOR AIR CIRCULATION AND BREEZES! Please Don't Ask The Coordinator To Turn Them Off. And no one has permission to touch or switch the fan settings except our coordinators. Also, please do not close the doors (or windows) of the church, as we need fresh air for the well-being of others. The same applies if it starts raining outside. Please do not shut doors and windows, as almost all of these are protected by balconies and verandahs, and there is virtually no chance of rain getting in. Even when it is raining, it can still be hot and humid, and closing things up and turning off fans worsens the situation. Coordinators are following Church Health and Safety directions. It may be necessary to relocate to another seat that suits your needs better or bring something warm to put on. As you can imagine, we cannot adjust these large spaces to meet everyone’s personal needs, so we need to set them for general conditions, and individuals can then bring whatever they require for their individual needs. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Fr Dan Ryan’s PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY IN THE 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
2025 - Holy Year Pilgrimage In Italy
Would you like to go to Italy with Fr Dan Ryan next May for the Holy Year?
Fr Dan Ryan has organised a Pilgrimage to Italy from May 9th to May 24th 2025. We will spend 4 nights in Assisi and 4 nights in Rome.
The Pilgrimage will go from Venice to Rome via Florence, Padua, Siena, and San Giovanni Rotonda (Padre Pio). There will be brochures at the front of the church next week, or you can go to https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/pv2569 - for more information. Or you can contact Harvest Journeys on 1800 819 156
Fr Dan Ryan.
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 are 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 Pascuale Caprie, 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, Leonie McMahon, Angela Micallef, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Frances Much, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Scott Nunan, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Kevin Owen, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Rachel Raines, Karsten Rickert, Bob Rogers, Miranda Santi, Maureen Scott, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Romana Carlin, Brant Michael Campbell, Noel Patrick Cook, Ann Letitia Owens, Michael (Mick) McKew, John Rowles, Bruce O’Brien, Martha Wagner, Peter Noble, Carmela Parente, Maureen Williams, Christine Lennon, Erin Stein, Anthony Box, Lubomir Stas, Julie Chamberlain, Joy L’Huillier, Francis Xavier.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical)
Marie Ethel Ashby , Maria Beer, Marco Burcul , Peter Capolupo, Graciella Del Carmen Chapman, Walter Ciabattoni , Klaus Diga, Jeffrey Eric Fittler, Berice May Flannery, Patricia Mary Flori, Raymond John Ford, David William Foster, Glenis Maria Gaffney, Ronda Jean Terese Hall, Cheryl Anne Hamwood, Susan Marie Hogan, Teresa Jackson, Teresa Jackson , Waldemar Kaczor , Zvonimir Leopold Karlich, Dr David Lee, Mons Robert Lyons, Anna Marinic, Raelene Mavis Maroney, Stanley Nalepa, Michael O'Brien, Hilda O'Donnell, Jack O'Donnell, Mons Michael Potter, John Reid , Jacqueline Feriel Rivet, Len Scully.
And Also: (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.
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
Open before and after all weekend Masses, other times contact the Parish Office.
Daily reflections for Lent Year C ‘Start Anew in Christ’ available until sold out $5
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray The Stations of the Cross, The Divine Mercy and The Rosary each day at 8:00a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on each First Friday, 7/02/25, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm. All are welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4
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 ON 29TH JANUARY)
The Group meets in the Parish Hospitality Centre on Wednesdays from 9 am to 12 noon. Activities include
Art (watercolour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink drawing, etc.)
Various kinds of Craftwork (Knitting, Embroidery, Crocheting, Card making, Sewing, etc.)
Making Rosary Beads (later sent to the missions)
And any other activities that individuals may have an interest in, or you can bring in your ideas
A very relaxing and social environment - meet new friends! You are most welcome to join.
For further information, phone the Parish Office.
MARIAN VALLEY PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Church for Our Lady of Lourdes Feast on 11.02.2025 and on the 13.02.2025 Our Lady of Fatima's Feast. The bus will be picking up Sharp at 8.15 am on both days at the Sacred Heart Church Clear Island Waters. The Cost of the bus fare per person $25.00 return. You can secure your seat with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260, Madeleine 5529 1573 and
Chris Raynald 0451 302 674.
THE SACRED HEART BRIDGE CLUB-
Meets at the Sacred Heart - Parish Hospitality Centre, Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters.
Playing Bridge keeps your brain active and increases your social network! So why not give us a try? Learn to play Bridge at “Our Friendly Club” - Free Lesson. “Introduction to Bridge” - It is Easy to learn the format. No previous card-playing experience is necessary. All are welcome. For more information and to enrol, please phone Cheryl at 5538 8821.
YOGA AT THE PARISH HOSPITALITY CENTRE -
Join us for our social class in the Parish Hospitality Centre next to the Parish Office. Classes run every Tuesday at 10:45 a.m. Learn to relax yet gain greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness and concentration while increasing your breath support and general well-being. Ruth is an IYTA-accredited instructor with wide experience and runs a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session costing $10 (new attendees, please arrive by 10:30 a.m. to prepare adequately for class). For more information, please emailsurfers@bne.catholic.net.au.
OUR LADY’S STATUE -
Praying the Rosary - Our Lady’s Statue in the Parish - Details of the Statue of Our Lady are going around the Parish. If you want her in your home and say the Rosary, please contact Maxine or Pat. For more information, please email: psela@bigpond.com
or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Our Lady’s Statue details for the next several weeks are:
27/1/2025 Nardine & Ayline Merrimac
3/2/2025 Helen & Thor Merrimac
10/2/2025 Helen & Thor Merrimac
17/2/2025 Maria Alexanderson
24/2/2025 Maria Alexanderson
3/3/2025 Mitchell Burda Merrimac
10/3/2025 Mitchell Burda Merrimac
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
Join Rochelle for a fun, functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65’s. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Friday from 5pm-6pm at St Vincent’s Church
(40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise).
Come along and read/study Break Open the Word weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
MEDITATION PRAYER GROUP
The meditation group meets in the Morris prayer room on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It would very much like to welcome new members. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesus de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate every 2nd Saturday of the month from 11 am to 2 pm. Place: Hospitality Room. Sacred Heart Church. “We praise, We praise, We grow spiritually from the Word of the Lord.” For more information, please contact Grace. For more information, please email:grace.flowers.art@hotmail.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
SOCIAL - BUS TRIP
LET US ALL BE IRISH on the 17th March.
Come and join us on St. Patrick’s Day starting with a bus journey to participate in Mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedrall at 10am. Fr Gerard will be the celebrant and the Mass includes Irish bagpipes. Morning tea next to the Cathedral is included after our spiritual celebration.
Then we head off to Western Districts Rugby Football Club Toowoong for a 12-noon lunch followed by Irish dancing and entertainment. On the way home, test your wits by joining in some Irish Trivia with prizes including the best Irish outfit and lucky seat.
Please invite your family and friends as all are welcome.
Date: Monday 17 March (RSVP: Tuesday 11th March)
Location: The bus will depart and return to St. Joseph the Worker Church, Labrador (44 Imperial Parade)
Times: 8.15am for prompt departure at 8.30am and returning at about 4.30pm
Cost: $30 for bus hire (dependent on numbers) Lunch and drinks are at your expense
As with all SCP events, bookings are essential. To register, email Christine Wintour at winlock2@hotmail.com or to get further details, please contact her by mobile on 0431 630 446.
THE BIBLE TIMELINE – THE STORY OF SALVATION
ADULT FAITH FORMATION BIBLE STUDY
From One Holy Couple (Creation) to One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church (Today)
WHEN: On the last Sunday of the Month. The next Session No. 3 will be held on 19 January 2025.
WHERE: in the Parish Hospitality Room - (next to Sacred Heart Church), 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters
Queensland 4226, on Sundays from 10 am – 12 pm.
There is no cost; however, to participate, you will need to purchase The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation Study Set, which can be obtained from Ascension Press or Garrett Publishing. The Study Set will contain The Bible Timeline Study Book, Chart and Bookmark - https://ascensionpress.com/ https://garrattpublishing.com.au/
This study program is the complete study version, an In-depth Exploration of Salvation History, which will require considerable pre-reading monthly of various sections of the Bible, and that is why we will do it monthly to ensure we allow ourselves sufficient time to give this Study our full participation. This way, we will get the most from the sessions, and once we see the big picture of the Bible, we will be able to understand Scripture in a whole new way. The Mass readings will make more sense. You will see how our beliefs as Catholics are rooted in Scripture, your prayers will come to life, and you will know how you are part of this remarkable story.
The Bible Timeline® study program takes you on a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Using a unique colour-coded chart, you will learn the Bible's significant people, places, and events and discover how they all come together to reveal the remarkable story of our Faith. Bookings can be made by ringing the Parish Office (new): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 1 pm Mon-Fri). We’re excited to be able to present this resource, so please join us.
A VOCATION VIEW:
Through the power of the Spirit, Jesus proclaimed his mission. How are you carrying on that mission today? Ponder the possibility of being a deacon, priest, brother or sister. (Luke 1:1, 4:14-21)
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP -
“Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who had nothing prepared…” - Nehemiah 8:10
Ezra’s instructions to the people show us that God does not forbid us from enjoying the good things in life. He wants us to be happy! However, God expects us to be grateful for all that He has given us and to generously share our blessings with those who are in need. Now here’s the hard part – to share all we have without expecting anything in return.
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 - SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS
Pope Francis has more than 7 million followers on Twitter and loves to take selfies. But while he’s harnessed social media to broaden his reach as he spreads the Good News, he worries about the “radical loneliness” in a society that chases validation online and fears making real commitments. Jesus didn’t need the Internet to accumulate “followers” or for his message to “go viral,” and the Holy Father urges everyone not to worry about getting “likes” on Facebook but instead to forge close bonds. “Friending” people in real life means investing in meaningful relationships. Make a down payment today.
“Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region.”
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/5tLgqgAxLgw9EWRnhVvY/australia-day-national-holiday-christian-background?ru=Paul-Evangelion
Australia Day Homily Message -
A genuine Christian perspective encourages us to appreciate our blessings. This sentiment can enhance our celebration of Australia Day this year.
On January 26, we give thanks to God for the privileges of living in a nation marked by overwhelming examples of peace, prosperity, and stability—blessings not enjoyed by many around the world. We recognize the suffering in countries plagued by war, poverty, and oppressive regimes, reminding us of the stark contrasts we face.
This day commemorates the arrival of Governor Phillip in 1788, marking the foundation of the first permanent European settlement in Australia. It also acknowledges the rich history of the Indigenous peoples who have inhabited this land for millennia. The arrival of the British introduced significant changes, often accompanied by challenges and misunderstandings between two distinct cultures. Yet, through these trials, a diverse nation has emerged, enriched by migrants from around the globe. Our shared anthem, “we are one and free,” reflects our commitment to unity in diversity—upholding shared values, dignity, and respect.
Our legal and political frameworks are founded in British democratic and parliamentary traditions that emphasize representative government, the rule of law, and individual freedoms. Moreover, the Christian influence brought by that same settlement has shaped our national ethos. Values like the Australian principle of a "fair go" are grounded in Christian teachings, such as Jesus' directive to treat others as we wish to be treated (Mt 7:12).
We honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedoms, acknowledging that our way of life is envied around the world. The influx of migrants and refugees shows that Australia remains a land of opportunity, with many choosing to become citizens each Australia Day.
However, we must not take our freedoms for granted. Just as we have defended our nation against external threats, we must guard against internal divisions that can erode our social cohesion. Our anthem’s refrain, “for we are one and free,” should guide our aspirations for the future. While we respect diverse beliefs, we must unite in upholding fundamental values, including the dignity of every person and the protection of human freedom.
This Australia Day, let us pray for true unity among all Australians for the common good, extending love and support to those in need. May we seek forgiveness and healing, and express gratitude for our abundant blessings. Let us strive to grow as a united people—truly one and free.
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Fr Paul W. Kelly
Adapted from the Australia Day homily by Archbishop Julian Porteous of Hobart, January 26, 2024
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To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks.
INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS:
January 26 - Australia Day
(From the Preface of Australia Day)
From ancient times, you made this land
a home for many peoples
and became their rock of strength;
when they were hungry, you gave them food,
and when thirsty, water even in the desert.
To all, your providence has proclaimed
the Good News of Jesus Christ, your Son,
sent by you to be the Saviour of all the world,
who has brought peace by his sacrifice on the Cross.
And so, we lift our voices to you this day,
and with the people you have made your own,
from every race and tongue, every place and time.
we join in the song of the Angels in heaven
January 27 - m - Saint Angela Merici, virgin
Born in Desenzano (Italy) about 1474. Died in Brescia on this day in 1540. Became a Franciscan tertiary and subsequently founded the Company of Saint Ursula (Ursulines). Her vision provided an alternative to the forms of religious life available for women: members remained in their own homes, living as virgins and observing a rule she composed. She is remembered as a woman of prayer, for her evangelical way of life, for her pilgrimages, and for her creative response to the needs of women in the Church.
Quotes: You will accomplish more by kind words and a courteous manner than by anger or sharp rebuke, which should never be used except in necessity.
Do not lose heart, even if you should discover that you lack the qualities necessary for the work to which you are called. He who called you will not desert you, but he will stretch out his saving hand when you are in need.
Strive to be faithful to that which God has called you.
Reflect that, in reality; you have a greater need to serve [the poor] than they have of your service.
Beware of trying to accomplish anything by force.
We must give alms. Charity wins souls and draws them to virtue.
Keep to the ancient way and custom of the Church, established and confirmed by so many Saints under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. And live a new life. Pray, and get others to pray, that God does not abandon His Church, but reform it as He pleases, and as He sees best for us, and more to His honour and glory.
January 28 - M - Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest and doctor of the Church
There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship. - Thomas Aquinas
If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever.
Man cannot live without joy; therefore, when he is deprived of true spiritual joys, it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.
We can't have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards, we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.
It is requisite for the relaxation of the mind that we make use, from time to time, of playful deeds and jokes.
If, then, you are looking for the way by which you should go, take Christ because He is the way.
Love takes up where knowledge leaves off.
For a war to be just, three things are necessary. First, the authority of the sovereign. Secondly, a just cause. Thirdly, a rightful intention.
To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them.
All the efforts of the human mind cannot exhaust the essence of a single fly.
Well-ordered self-love is right and natural.
By nature, all people are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments
Justice is a certain rectitude of mind whereby a man does what he ought to do in the circumstances confronting him.
Reason in man is rather like God in the world.
The knowledge of God is the cause of things. For the knowledge of God is to all creatures what the knowledge of the artificer is to things made by his art.
To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
The things that we love tell us what we are.
Better to illuminate than merely to shine, to deliver to others contemplated truths than merely to contemplate.
Wonder is the desire for knowledge.
Because we cannot know what God is, but only what He is not, we cannot consider how He is but only how He is not.
To bear with patience wrongs done to oneself is a mark of perfection, but to bear with patience wrongs done to someone else is a mark of imperfection and even of actual sin.
Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion.
A man has free choice to the extent that he is rational. -
The truth of our faith becomes a matter of ridicule among the infidels if any Catholic, not gifted with the necessary scientific learning, presents as dogma what scientific scrutiny shows to be false.
How is it they live in such harmony with the billions of stars - when most people can barely go a minute without declaring war in their minds about someone they know?
Not everything more difficult is more meritorious.
Three things are necessary for the salvation of man: to know what he ought to believe, to know what he ought to desire, and to know what he ought to do.
Good can exist without evil, whereas evil cannot exist without good.
Friendship is the source of the greatest pleasures, and without friends, even the most agreeable pursuits become tedious.
The highest manifestation of life consists in this: that a being governs its own actions. A thing that is always subject to the direction of another is somewhat of a dead thing.
Happiness is secured through virtue; it is a good attained by man's own will.
Most people seem to live according to sense rather than reason.
Three conditions are necessary for Penance: contrition, which is sorrow for sin, together with a purpose of amendment; confession of sins without any omission; and satisfaction through good works.
If forgers and malefactors are put to death by the secular power, there is much more reason for excommunicating and even putting to death one convicted of heresy.Share this Quote
Law is nothing other than a certain ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by the person who has the care of the community.
Pray thee, spare, thyself at times: for it becomes a wise man sometimes to relax the high pressure of his attention to work.
Clearly the person who accepts the Church as an infallible guide will believe whatever the Church teaches.
How can we live in harmony? First, we need to know we are all madly in love with the same God.
It is possible to demonstrate God's existence, although not a priori, yet a posteriori from some work of His more surely known to us.
Law; an ordinance of reason for the common good, made by him who has care of the community.
Sorrow can be alleviated by good sleep, a bath and a glass of wine.
Every judgement of conscience, be it right or wrong, be it about things evil in themselves or morally indifferent, is obligatory, in such wise that he who acts against his conscience always sins.
Beware of the person of one book.
Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.
January 31 - M - Saint John Bosco, priest and religious founder. A love that works
At the height of the Industrial Revolution, impoverished Italian boys were drawn to the city of Turin in search of factory work. But, for many reasons, they fell on hard times and were often jailed. Saint John Bosco helped them with lodging, education, vocational training, and just plain patience and loving care. He also protected young workers from unscrupulous employers by crafting signed apprenticeship agreements—the first real employment contracts used in Europe. He revolutionised the work of educators, too, writing: “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education. If you want to be loved … you must love yourselves and make your children feel that you love them.”
“Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”
Feb 1 - Saint Brigid. St Brigid of Ireland (c 453-523)
I would like the angels of Heaven to be among us. I would like an abundance of peace. I would like full vessels of charity. I would like rich treasures of mercy. I would like cheerfulness to preside over all. I would like Jesus to be present. I would like the three Marys of illustrious renown to be with us. I would like the friends of Heaven, to be gathered around us, from all parts. I would like myself to be a rent-payer to the Lord, that I should suffer distress, that He would bestow a good blessing upon me. I would like a great lake of beer for the King of Kings. I would like to be watching Heaven’s family drinking it through all eternity. “
Saint Brigid, You were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict. You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. St. Brigid you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit.
Possessions might seem like blessings but can end up being burdens, and many saints went to great lengths to empty their pockets in order to lighten their hearts. Case in point: Sixth-century Brigid of Kildare, who enraged her Druid dad by giving to the needy everything that wasn’t nailed down. When a nobleman tried to stop her chariot, she charged his blockage, surviving but totaling her chariot. Finally her father decided to sell her at market, but she entered a monastery instead. Give in to the spirit of generosity—and you just might find that the new lighter you can’t get enough of less.
POPE FRANCIS:
Image Credit- Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 1358932310 — Pope Francis, visiting the Ejmiadzin․ Armenia. Ejmiadzin. June 26, 2016 - Editorial Use Only.Photo Contributor - GYG Studio
Pope article:
Encyclical continued -ENCYCLICAL LETTER - “DILEXIT NOS” (“HE LOVED US”).
A THREEFOLD LOVE
64. Nor do we remain only on the level of the Lord’s human feelings, beautiful and moving as they are.In contemplating Christ’s heart we also see how, in his fine and noble sentiments, his kindness and gentleness and his signs of genuine human affection, the deeper truth of his infinite divine love is revealed.In the words of Benedict XVI, “from the infinite horizon of his love, God wished to enter into the limits of human history and the human condition.He took on a body and a heart.Thus, we can contemplate and encounter the infinite in the finite, the invisible and ineffable mystery in the human heart of Jesus the Nazarene”.[43]
65. The image of the Lord’s heart speaks to us in fact of a threefold love.First, we contemplate his infinite divine love.Then our thoughts turn to the spiritual dimension of his humanity, in which the heart is “the symbol of that most ardent love which, infused into his soul, enriches his human will”.Finally, “it is a symbol also of his sensible love”.[44]
66. These three loves are not separate, parallel or disconnected, but together act and find expression in a constant and vital unity.For “by faith, through which we believe that the human and divine nature were united in the Person of Christ, we can see the closest bonds between the tender love of the physical heart of Jesus and the twofold spiritual love, namely human and divine”.[45]
67. Entering into the heart of Christ, we feel loved by a human heart filled with affections and emotions like our own.Jesus’ human will freely chooses to love us, and that spiritual love is flooded with grace and charity.When we plunge into the depths of his heart, we find ourselves overwhelmed by the immense glory of his infinite love as the eternal Son, which we can no longer separate from his human love.It is precisely in his human love, and not apart from it, that we encounter his divine love: we discover “the infinite in the finite”.[46]
68. It is the constant and unequivocal teaching of the Church that our worship of Christ’s person is undivided, inseparably embracing both his divine and his human natures.From ancient times, the Church has taught that we are to “adore one and the same Christ, the Son of God and of man, consisting of and in two inseparable and undivided natures”.[47]And we do so “with one act of adoration… inasmuch as the Word became flesh”.[48]Christ is in no way “worshipped in two natures, whereby two acts of worship are introduced”; instead, we venerate “by one act of worship God the Word made flesh, together with his own flesh”.[49]
69. Saint John of the Cross sought to explain that in mystical experience the infinite love of the risen Christ is not perceived as alien to our lives.The infinite in some way “condescends” to enable us, through the open heart of Christ, to experience an encounter of truly reciprocal love, for “it is indeed credible that a bird of lowly flight can capture the royal eagle of the heights, if this eagle descends with the desire of being captured”.[50]He also explains that the Bridegroom, “beholding that the bride is wounded with love for him, because of her moan he too is wounded with love for her.Among lovers, the wound of one is the wound of both”.[51]John of the Cross regards the image of Christ’s pierced side as an invitation to full union with the Lord.Christ is the wounded stag, wounded when we fail to let ourselves be touched by his love, who descends to the streams of water to quench his thirst and is comforted whenever we turn to him:
“Return, dove!
The wounded stag
is in sight on the hill,
cooled by the breeze of your flight”.[52]
(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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