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FROM JUNE 7th, 2026, SAINT VINCENT’S CHURCH -SURFERS PARADISE -
WILL PERMANENTLY CHANGE MASSES TO 9 AM & 11 AM SUNDAYS -
PLEASE LET EVERYONE KNOW WHO WOULD BENEFIT
PASTOR’S POST -
Please Keep In Your Prayers: The Children Receiving First Holy Communion This Weekend and also next weekend.
Happy Days!
Fr Paul’s First Communion Day pic from 1976 (Fifty years ago)? More pics next week!
We pray … Loving God, we thank you for the gift of your children. We thank you for creating them, which are precious and unique.
We thank you for loving them and for calling them into an eternal union with you. Lord, as they continue their journey of faith, we ask you to deepen our faith, so that these children will encounter your unselfish love in each of us. Amen
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The celebration of God as Trinity reveals a profound truth about the heart of the universe: God is communion. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit live in perfect unity—sharing, harmony, and above all, love. This divine relationship is not distant from us; it is an invitation. We are called into that same life-giving communion.
When we reflect on Jesus, we see clearly what truly matters. He did not seek wealth or status, warning instead of their emptiness. He did not chase popularity, even when the crowd chose Barabbas over him. What Jesus desired was far deeper: he longed to share life with others, to awaken faith, to comfort the vulnerable, and to bring about a Kingdom of mercy, peace, and inclusion. His mission was to draw us into the very life of God.
Yet our world remains restless. So many search for satisfaction in paths that glitter but ultimately fail—money, power, recognition. These promises often leave hearts unfulfilled. Still, we persist. The challenge is to listen instead for the Spirit of truth, guiding us toward what is genuinely life-giving.
Encouragingly, we see this response within our own communities. Many have asked, “What can I do?” and answered through acts of service—joining outreach ministries, supporting those in need, building community and friendship. These are not small things; they are signs of God at work.
In a world full of distractions, we are called back to unity, service, and love—living reflections of the Trinity itself.
Fr Paul Kelly
Save the Date – 40th Anniversary Celebration Mass
In May 1986, St Vincent’s Catholic Church in Surfers Paradise was dedicated and opened. One month later, in June 1986, Sacred Heart Church, St Vincent’s School, at Clear Island Waters were also established.
This year, we joyfully celebrate the 40th anniversary of our parish community and parish school.
We warmly invite you to join us for this special celebration:
40th Anniversary Mass
📅 Sunday, 21 June 2026
🕘 9:00 am at Sacred Heart Church Clear island Waters
We hope you can join our parish community and parish schools as we celebrate this important milestone together.
CONGRATULATIONS TO FR WARREN KINNE -
He CELEBRATED HIS 80th birthday and BOOK LAUNCH
Above: Barbara Brosnan, Stella Maris from Bundaberg from Fr Warren’s First Communion Class!
MASS TIMES CHANGES AT SAINT VINCENT’S SURFERS
As we assess the future viability of our masses and acknowledge that we may not always have the regular assistance of our much-appreciated retired priests, it is time to future-proof them. Our goal is to enable the two permanently appointed priests of the parish (currently Fr Paul and Fr Bradley), to celebrate most of the parish masses, when needed, if our wonderful supply priests are not available.
We still intend to roster our current priests within the parish for as long as they feel able and are available. However, in situations where they are not—for various reasons—we can now cover the masses with our full-time priest staff of two.
From the first weekend of June 2026, St Vincent’s Church in Hamilton Avenue will operate on a new timetable. Masses will be at 9:00 am and 11:00 am on Sundays from 7 June onwards.
Reason for the change:
Increasingly, a priest who might celebrate the 7:00 am Stella Mass may have to rush to celebrate an 8:00 am Mass. This is not really feasible or safe, and is rushed and stressful.
In the past, we had a vocalist and organist who regularly rushed from playing at the 7:00 am Mass to the 8:00 am Mass, which was not sustainable or safe, and we raised these logistical difficulties several times.
Benefits of the new roster.
The new roster could allow one musician to play at several masses without being unacceptably pressured to arrive and be ready for the next Mass.
It enables roster changes without excessive stress, even with events that occur suddenly or with little notice.
This rostering approach aims to be flexible and practical, ensuring smooth Mass operations and reducing strain on staff and volunteers.
Fr Paul
Important Announcement:
Please do not use the parking spaces of the Inspiring Choices HQ (the former Centacare Building Office) - Their management will take necessary action of towing vehicles - at the vehicle owner’s expense - not authorised to park in the reserved parking spaces for their patients and staff. Thank you.
ENCOUNTER CATHOLIC KIDS - Holiday Program -
CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY ACTIVITY
ECK Surfers Paradise
When: Thursday 2nd July
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Supervision from 8:30am - 5:00pm
Where: Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, 50 Fairway Dr, Clear Island Waters
Register now here: https://app.tickets.org.au/eb/ECKHP_Surfers
EXPLORING OUR FAITH -
The human person is the clearest reflection of God’s presence in the world.
Catholic social teaching is designed to protect and promote the dignity of every person.
It is not a comprehensive policy statement but rather a set of questions that we might consistently ask ourselves as we respond to the world around us.
Ten Principles of Catholic Social Teaching
The Principle of Respect for Human Dignity
Human dignity emerges neither from what people accomplish or own but because we are created in the image and likeness of God. Consequently, every person is worthy of respect simply by virtue of being a human being. People do not lose the right to be treated with respect because of disability, poverty, age, lack of success or race, let alone gain the right to be treated with greater respect because of what they own or accomplish.
The Principle of Respect for Human Life
An implication of the first principle is that every person, from the moment of conception to natural death, has inherent dignity and a right to a life consistent with the dignity that is ours as human beings. The Catholic tradition sees the sacredness of human life as part of any moral vision for a just and good society.
The Principle of Association
The human person is not only sacred but also social. We cannot consider a person simply as an isolated individual but as part of a rich tapestry of relationships. When making decisions that impact on the lives of others, we must consider how it impacts on that person’s connections with family, friends and the wider community.
The Principle of Participation
People have a right to shape their own lives and the society in which they live. They should participate in decision processes that impact their lives and cannot be considered passive recipients of other people’s decisions. We each have a responsibility to be shapers of the kind of world in which we wish to live.
The Principle of Preferential Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
In a world where we see deepening divisions between rich and poor, the powerful and the powerless, the Catholic tradition reminds us that God stands firmly on the side of the most marginalised members of society. While every person’s needs are important, we must consider, first and foremost, how the lives of the most vulnerable people are impacted or enhanced by the decisions we make.
The Principle of Solidarity
We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Learning to practice the virtue of solidarity means learning that ‘loving our neighbour’ is not, in the words of Pope John Paul II, “a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good; that is to say, to the good of all and of each individual, because we are all really responsible for all.”
The Principle of Stewardship
We show respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. We have a responsibility to care for the world’s goods as stewards and trustees, not primarily, let alone merely, as consumers. As people working toward making these principles a reality, good stewardship also means making careful and responsible decisions with the resources entrusted to us.
The Principle of Subsidiarity
The word subsidiarity comes from the Latin word “subsidium” which means help, aid or support. The principle of subsidiarity means clearly determining the right amount of help or support that is needed to accomplish a task or to meet an obligation: “not too much” (taking over and doing it for the other: thereby creating learned helplessness or over-dependence) and “not too little” (standing back and watching people thrash about, thereby increasing frustration and perhaps hopelessness). The principle might be better summarised as ‘no bigger than necessary, no smaller than appropriate’.
The Principle of Human Equality
Given that every human being is entitled to respect and dignity merely because she/he has been created in the image and likeness of God, it follows that there is radical equality among all human beings. After all, as George Cladis points out: “competition is alien within God.” This principle lies close to the surface in every Australian. We talk of it in terms of giving people a fair go.
The Principle of Common Good
A community is genuinely healthy when every single person is flourishing. This is not the utilitarian formula of the greatest good for the greatest number but the moral formula of the greatest good for all, simply on the basis that they are human beings and therefore inherently worthy of respect.
Source: https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/teachings-of-the-catholic-church
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Caritas Australia Lebanon Emergency Appeal
Lebanon is facing one of its most severe humanitarian crises in years, as a sudden surge in violence and mass evacuation orders force families to flee with nothing.
Within 24 hours, Caritas Lebanon reported 667,831 newly displaced people seeking safety. Despite the volatile environment, Caritas Lebanon teams are operating across seven governorates, delivering food, essential items, healthcare, psychosocial support, water and hygiene assistance, and protection services.
Let us stand in solidarity with our partners in Lebanon.
Learn more or make a donation today at www.caritas.org.au/lebanon
Urgent Attention
Please do not park across the footpath at St Vincent’s church. You will likely be issued with a parking fine. Parking past the gate also prevents pedestrians from being able to use the footpath.
WOOL PROJECT
NEEDED - WOOL OR ACRYLIC YARN
Once again, we are grateful to the very generous people who have donated cash and wool to the 'crochet club' with Sr. Lis Keane and Mary Lepp. Thank you so very much, and the first shipment of beautiful, colourful rugs is on its way to Perth and then on to the disabled children, along with their wheelchairs. Our Grateful Thanks to all. Sr Lis and Mary🙏🤗
Sr. Lis Keane and Mary Lepp are seeking donations of 8-ply wool or acrylic yarn to assist the ladies at Numinbah Prison who are crocheting rugs to go with Br. Ollie's Wheelchairs for Disabled Children in disadvantaged countries. Your assistance with either yarn (note: there are no colour restrictions) or small cash donations ($20 - $25.00) would be very gratefully received and can be left at Sacred Heart Church or Office under either of our names. Our prayers and grateful thanks for your help.
Sr Lis Keane and Mary Lepp.
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A letter in the style of Jane Austen:
It is a truth of the highest and most consoling order that the very heart of the universe is not governed by cold distance, but by communion. In the mystery of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—we encounter not solitude, but society; not rivalry, but perfect harmony; not mere duty, but love in its most refined and constant form. Such a society, one might observe, is not closed to us, but graciously extended as an invitation.
In considering our Lord Jesus, we find a most instructive example of what is worthy of pursuit. He displayed not the least ambition for wealth, having already judged its charms insufficient. Popular favour, too, held no lasting appeal, as evidenced when the crowd preferred a man of manifest ill character over Him. No, His desires were of a nobler kind: to share deeply, to awaken faith, to comfort the distressed, and to establish a kingdom governed by mercy and inclusion. In short, His ambition was nothing less than to introduce us into divine companionship.
Yet, one cannot help but observe the restless inclinations of society, forever captivated by glittering prospects—fortune, influence, applause—which, upon closer acquaintance, rarely satisfy. Still, we persist in such pursuits, often with admirable determination but questionable success.
Happily, better examples abound. Many, prompted by grace, have asked what good they might do, and have answered with service, generosity, and fellowship. In these small but sincere efforts, we glimpse something of that divine life—an echo, if you will, of love shared and multiplied.
{JA & PK}
ART FROM THE HOLY LANDS
A LITTLE PIECE OF BETHLEHEM IN THE FORM OF ART
We are very aware of how terrible the situation is in the Holy Lands. So much uncertainty and destruction.
Usually the Holy Lands are a very busy place for pilgrimages - but with the violence and destruction -the people in the region are isolated and have very few pilgrims or visitors. From time to time I have obtained various holy objects from the Holy Lands, particularly Bethlehem, for their spiritual significance and as an assistance to prayer and contemplation. It also happens to help the Christian artists and families and religious supplies people who are doing it extremely tough spiritually, economically and physically.
I thought it might be nice to present some stunning items of religious significance for your consideration. These are mosaics, made by local artists there from small coloured rocks and placed into frames. We have a few such items in the Sacred Heart Church already, (purchased through private funds), namely Jesus the Good Shepherd, and also Saint Michael the Archangel in the parish office foyer.
Here are some items from Bethlehem artists. If anyone wanted to purchase an item for their own use or for donation to the church, it could add great inspiration to people’s prayer life and also help struggling artists in the Holy Lands. These pictures are very large, and printed below (not to scale).
Palm Sunday 1.2 metres x 1.6metres (stone mosaic, framed) - USD$9,000 (frame and shipping included)
The Holy Family = USD$7,500 1mx1.4m (shipping included)
Jesus Washes the disciples’ feet= USD$6,000. 1.2m x 1.2m (shipping included)
The Miraculous catch of fish= USD $11,000 - very large - 2m x 1.6 m
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- Many of you may already know The Catholic Leader, our Archdiocesan Catholic
newspaper
- It has shared stories of faith, service and hope from parishes and communities
across our Archdiocese for nearly 100 years
- The print edition relies on the support of our Catholic community to continue
- An annual subscription costs $70 and includes 12 editions delivered directly to
your home.
- To enjoy faith-filled stories and to help you stay connected to the life of the
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- To subscribe to the Catholic Leader you can call 3324 3555 or visit their website https://catholicleader.com.au/subscribe/
- Please inquire at the Parish Office if you would like the Catholic Leaders contact
details or more information.
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THE JUBILEE YEAR OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI (2026)
800TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI.
Quotes:
We give you thanks because, having created us through your Son, by that holy love with which you loved us, you decreed that he should be born, true God and true man, of the glorious and ever blessed Virgin Mary and redeem us from our captivity by the blood of his passion and death.
We are all poor sinners and unworthy even to mention your name, and so we beg our Lord Jesus Christ, your beloved Son, in whom you are well pleased, and the Holy Spirit, to give you thanks for everything.
At all times and seasons, in every country and place, every day and all day, we must have a true and humble faith.
If we do not forgive perfectly, Lord, make us forgive perfectly, so that we may really love our enemies for love of you, and pray fervently to you for them, returning no one evil for evil, anxious only to serve everybody in you.Behold I am with you even unto the consummation of the world (Mt. 28: 20). The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life (Jn 6: 64). I am the way, and the truth, and the life (Jn 14:6).
I pray for them; not for the world do I pray, but for those whom thou hast given me, because they are thine, and all things that are mine are thine.
from https://www.franciscanmedia.org/franciscan-spirit-blog/holy-quotes-from-st-francis-of-assisi/
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THE BIBLE TIMELINE – THE STORY OF SALVATION
ADULT FAITH FORMATION BIBLE STUDY
CONTINUES on LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 2026
Next gathering Sunday 31st May 2026
Session 19 Messianic Fulfilment Part 11
What an enormous effort by those who have participated - only 5 sessions left.
Session 20 - Messianic Fulfilment - Part 111 - 28th June 2026
Session 21 - The Church - Part 1- 26th July 2026
Session 22 - The Church Part 11 - 30th August 2026
Session 23 - The Church Part 111 - 27th September 2026
In the Parish Hospitality Centre - (next to Sacred Heart Church), 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland 4226, on the Last Sunday of the month 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 - ask the office if we have any still on hand first. The Study Set will contain The Bible Timeline Study Book, Chart and Bookmark - https://ascensionpress.com/ https://garrattpublishing.com.au/
Caritas Australia End of Financial Year Appeal
As we approach the end of the financial year, Caritas Australia invites you to help families facing conflict, hunger and displacement. Your support is needed to get critical aid into countries like Sudan, which is facing the largest humanitarian crisis in the world today. Over 30 million people are in urgent need of assistance, the healthcare system has collapsed, and families are facing chronic food insecurity. Your tax‑deductible gift this End of Financial Year can provide lifesaving essentials such as nutritious food, clean water and vital medicines to families in need.
Make a donation today at https://www.caritas.org.au/make-hunger-history
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Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish
Youth Group
- Ignis Dei (Fire of God)
Next gathering Sunday, 31st of May
7pm to 9pm in the Parish Hospitality Centre,
50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters
Come along as we have a bite to eat, and journey through some activities.
Finalising the night with Adoration and Night Prayer
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ASCEND - IGNITE CONFERENCE 2026. 24-27 SEPTEMBER 2026
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FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION
Friday, June 5th 2026. At Sacred Heart Catholic Church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. 4226. From 7 pm
FIRST SATURDAY MASS -
Saturday 6th June, 2026. 9 am Sacred Heart Church. First Saturday schedule for Mass, Adoration and Benediction on the First Saturday of each month.
Anointing Mass – Mass of Healing FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (February-November Inclusive)
Tuesday 2nd June 2026. At 10 am, followed by a cuppa and refreshments. Sacred Heart Catholic Church. 50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. 4226.
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Saint Vincent de Paul Society Reflections
For more details on the conference's activities, please contact Conference President Wendy Webb at wendy.webb@svdpqld.org.au
The Most Holy Trinity - A - Sunday, May 31, 2026
THIS WEEK...
‘A good house is not reared so much by the accumulation of worldly goods, as by the bringing up of children in the ways of holiness and of God’ St Francis de Sales
PRAYER
We adore you God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
May you bless all the families on earth.
COMMUNION OF PERSONS
Ex 34:4-6, 8-9
2Cor 13:11-13
Jn 3:16-18
As we celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity, we are called to contemplate God as the communion of persons. We can understand this communion as the outpouring of love which manifests in the total and complete gift of self to the other.
The Father to the Son. The Son to the Father. The Holy Spirit as the outpouring of Love between the Father and the Son. ‘God is love and in Himself, He lives a mystery of personal loving communion’ (Familiaris Consortio, 11).
In his letter to families, Saint John Paul II shares how the origins of the family can be found within the Trinity itself. ‘In the light of the New Testament it is possible to discern how the primordial model of the family is to be sought in God himself, in the Trinitarian mystery of his life’ (Letter to Families, 6).
The mutual self-giving love within the family is an essential witness to the salvific work of the Trinity.
On the 19th of July 1943, Blesseds Luigi and Maria Beltrame huddled together with their children amidst the rubble of their home in Rome. The explosions of falling bombs around the city shook the entire house. They opened their doors to their suffering neighbours displaced by the bombings providing them with food and shelter. They called everyone together, fell to their knees and began to recite the rosary. In the midst of their suffering, they entrusted themselves to Divine Providence and the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Their mutual self-giving love expressed within the family was a source of hope that brought salvation to their entire community.
For many of the people we assist, family may not have been a place where they have experienced this profound communion of persons.
As Vincentians, we are privileged to restore the people we assist to communion with the Trinity through the outpouring of our love. ‘But be kind and love, for love is your first gift to the poor. They will appreciate
your kindness and your love more than all else you bring them’ (Blessed Rosalie Rendu). Our love draws all God’s children into one family united in the Most Holy Trinity. (Reflection by Nirmal Nanayakkara)
How have you experienced the presence of the Most Holy Trinity in your family?
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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 are now available on the new devices.
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 promptly address pastoral needs across the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes in this Deanery practice that the first call for emergencies goes 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: the first priest to call is from the parish where the Nursing Home is located. Please help us serve the region effectively and prevent response delays by calling the nearest parish.
Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5558 0120
Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388
John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165
University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222
CHILDHOOD SACRAMENTS - 2026
Baptism
Who: Birth to 7 years (older children may need extra preparation)
Enrolment & booking: Online
(STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 BAPTISM ENQUIRY)
Eligible - Children aged from birth to 7:
Email Merla Nario: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Children aged 8+ years: email - sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au to start prep
When: Most Sundays, 10:30 am, Sacred Heart Church
Administrative fee: $130
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > Baptism)
Confirmation 2026 Rehearsals: 11 or 12 August, 5:30 pm
Confirmation: 21 August 2026, 5:00 or 7:00 pm
Preparation: Preparation Program (parents + children)
Administrative fee: $150 total for Confirmation & Eucharist prep
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > Confirmation)
Enrol: STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 ENROL
For more info: sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
Eucharist (First Holy Communion) 2026
(this group has begun and is closed except for those presently completing it)
Who: Year 4+; Baptised & Confirmed (approx 9 to ten years of age)
When (sequence): all elements are required.
Reconciliations: Tuesday 19 May, 5:30 pm (parent and child attend)
Rehearsals: Tuesday 26 or Wed 27 May, 5:30 pm (parent and child attend)
First Communions: 31 May, 11:00 am or 7 June, 11:00 am (parent and child attend)
Administrative fee: $120 preparation (excludes Confirmation)
Notes:
If the child was confirmed in 2025, auto-included for 2026 prep; no extra fee if already paid in 2025
If confirmed in another parish, follow the First Communion enrolment steps
How to enrol / info:
Parish site: surfersparadiseparish.com.au (Sacraments > First Holy Communion)
Enrol: STEP 1 REGISTER; STEP 2 ENROL
For more info: sacramental.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
General
All sacraments at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, Qld 4226
Enrolment status or information requests: via parish site links or Sacramental Team emails above.
IN OUR PRAYERS (Please let us know when to remove a name from the list).
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK: Please also pray for the following, who are ill. (Alphabetical)
Liz Marie Alcaza, Lindsay Allan, Robert Andreas, Joseph Antony, Milroy Antony, Ellen Ball, Tricia Baumann, Phil Bawden, Gregory Bechly, Nellie Bellinger, Mary and Leon Brosnan, Tim Brown, Margaret and Tony Buckingham, Vicky and Andrew Campora, Gerard Carroll, Danielle Cavielli, Nadia Ceh, Tina Conidi, Helen Cooper, Jamie Creed, Shirley Croft, Christopher Cunningham, Mary Curmi, Bernie Delaney, Lenore Dobbie, Christopher Eid, Dawn Evered, Judi Farrow, John Fletcher, John Fox, Lorraine Gallagher, Maralyn Gow, Eleanor (Nelly) Graham, Jenny Haines, Denise Hales, Betty Hannon, Gary Haywood, Mary Hirst, Jenny Johnson, Kevin & Francis Junee, Leona Kelly, Robyn and John Kennedy, Marjorie Kennedy, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Robert Lahey, Dallas Laine, Dannielle Therese Larney, Thi Le, Alvin Lee, Nathan Lepp, Maureen Lloyd, Ann Loder, Veronica Lubomski, Aaron Lucas, Victoria MacDonald, Fr John Maher, Jim Mathews, l. McGuigan, Phil and Anne McGuigan, Leonie McMahon, Anthea McMullin, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Michael & Leslie Murtagh, Eileen O’Mara, John O’Neill, Margaret Orme, Tommy Osborne, Kevin Owen, Jamie Paterson, Susan Paterson, Sarah Pawley, Janina Pazek, Clare Perera, Lesley Petroni, Paul Picone, Rachel Raines, Gus Reeves, Melba Rentoul, Fabian Restaino, Sally Rickard, Alan Robinson, Bob Rogers, Joan Cecilia Rudd, Jens Ryan-Raison, Marnia Ryan-Raison, Alf Schembri, Vilma Sudonallo, Betty Taylor, Gary Thompson, Leonie and Leonardo Torcaso, Denise Tracey, Lynette Wyer.
RECENTLY DECEASED: (Chronological - Most recent first):
Margaret McCarthy, Nick Ferris, Mary-Ann Rogers, Dr Sally Towns, Philip Aziz Soryal, Grace Lim, Mary Elizabeth Murphy, Nunziata (Nancy) Tognini, Mr Julio Costa Da Conceição, Susan Quirk.
ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH:
This week’s Anniv. (Alphabetical) (Sun, May 31, 2026-Sat, 6 June 2026)
Mary Beatrix (“May) Ashton, Rossaria Dom Barbaro, Isabelle Rose Brock, Kevin Cassels, Myrtle Joyce Condon, Raul Cruz, Edvardas Eidejus, Darren Charles Eley, Roberta Maria Fantuz, Theo Robert Farr, Mary Fredricks, Judith Gilliland, Dorothy Gravener, Marie Hayden, Jacqueline Faye (Jackie) Hogan, Keith Patrick Hoolihan, Fr Morgan Howe, Anthony Charles Franklin (Tony) Howell, Therese Lorraine Anne Hunt, Gerald Freestone Junck, John Alexander Kazimierowicz, Fr John McGlone, Tindaro Antonino ("Nino") Miano, Barry Wayne Moore, Neville John Malcolm Nielsen, Fr Patrick O'Rourke, Fr Joseph O'Shaughnessy, Shirley Ellen Pettiona, Donald Hugh Ravety, Marie Van Twest, Bp Andrew Tynan, Henry Wirth.
Last Weekend’s Anniv. of Death. (Sun, May 24, 2026-Sat, 30 May 2026)
Fay Ardron, Fr Rod Cameron, Fr Michael Carew, Concetta Maria Cran, Silvio Cristofori, Keith Cumner, Mary Therese Dean, Jacques Philoppe Desbleds, Sr Ursula Gabbett, Patricia Dorothy Helen Geor, Lorraine Ellen Geraghty, Maurice John Hayes, Beryl Hodge, Fr Maxwell Irvine, Fr Philip (o.s.a) Kehoe, Dr Elaine Lillian Kluver, Vittorio Lanci, Patricia Margaret Mary Levick, June Therese Lewis, Margaret Mary Lyon, Josip Grzic and Matthew Maric, Fr John Francis McCarthy, Bill McDermott, Adam Alfred McGuffie, Fr Basil Meaney, Basilo Micale, Mellie Modral, Ivy Mulcahy, Kevin Martin Murphy, Gerald Thomas O'Halloran, Constantin Fracisc Onea, Fr Victor Roberts, Rose Samouilhan, Mary Ward, Catherine Anne Watson, Lois Wood.
HOLY GROUNDS CAFE -
The Café - “Sacred Grounds” is Located at the Former Atrium Building near the Sacred Heart Church.
Dmitri, Svetlana and Demid Schodin, are the operators of Sacred Grounds Cafe on the grounds of the parish. They are a very friendly, lovely, young family. The cafe's food is delicious, and the atmosphere is vibrant and warm. Come and make them feel welcome and support a local business! The Sacred Grounds will be open from 7 am to 4 pm each day. They specialise in Coffee, breakfasts, lunches, and a takeaway menu, and they even bake on premises!
The café near the Sacred Heart Church is a wonderful gathering place for parishioners, school parents, staff, and
the wider public. The café is 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.
RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES
Open before and after the weekend Masses.
Plenty of last minute gift ideas for Holy Communion.
Fr Warren’s book “Bullet holes in the Presbytery” now available in the Sacred Heart and St Vincent’s Religious Goods Shops, cost $20. All proceeds will go to the Columban Mission Society.
ART AND CRAFT GROUP
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 own 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-
Sacred Heart Bridge Club - Join Our Bridge Club! - Meet, Play, and Enjoy the Game of Bridge. Looking for a fun, social, and stimulating activity? Whether you're a returning player or a beginner wanting to learn, our Bridge Club welcomes players of all levels!
Where: Hospitality Room
When: Monday and Wednesday from 1.00 pm
Contact: Cheryl on 0417 772 701
✔ Friendly Atmosphere ✔ Lessons for Beginners ✔ Weekly Games ✔ Tea, Coffee & Good Company! Come for the cards, stay for the camaraderie!
WCCM - WORLD COMMUNITY FOR CHRISTIAN MEDITATION
This meditation group meets each Tuesday in the Morris Prayer Room located at 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. Meditation starts from 10 am to 10:30 am. If you are new to meditation, we will assist you in learning about WCCM and the practice of Christian Meditation. For more information, please contact Pam Egberts at 0493 742 670.
SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP
Please join us to pray The Stations of the Cross, The Divine Mercy and The Rosary each day at 8:00 am at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays.
MARIAN VALLEY - SHRINE PILGRIMAGE
Please come and join us at the Marian Valley Shrine for Our Lady of Fatima’s Feast on Saturday the 23rd of May 2026 Main Celebration of Our Lady of Help of Christian, Patroness of Australia and Shrine of Marian Valley. Bus leaves sharp at 8.15am on both days, from No. 50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters. The cost of the bus fare return per person for each trip is $35.00. You can secure your seat for both days with contact name and contact phone number with Xavier Solomon 0404 843 260 and Medeleine 5529 1573. If you need further info, please call Xavier 0404 843 260.
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 while gaining greater flexibility, inner strength, body awareness, and concentration, while increasing your breath support and overall well-being. Ruth is an IYTA-accredited instructor with extensive experience and offers a caring, carefully monitored one-hour session for $10 (new attendees, please arrive by 10:30 a.m. to prepare adequately for class). For more information, please email surfers@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 would like her in your home and to say the Rosary, please contact Maxine or Pat. For more information, please email: psela@bigpond.com or surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
01/06/26 Garry and Ruci Camera Southport
08/06/26 Nardine and Ayline- Merrimac
15/06/26 Nardine and Ayline Merrimac
22/06/26 Helen & Thor Skjaerback Merrimac
29/06/26 Helen & Thor Skjaerback Merrimac
06/07/26 Juliet & Abdul Speir Nerang
13/07/26 Juliet & Abdul Speir Nerang
EXERCISE CLASS - LOW IMPACT - FOR HEART HEALTH -
Join Rochelle for a fun, functional exercise class at Casey Hall. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises for heart health, improve strength and balance- an all-around fitness class for over 65’s. Stretch and strengthen the whole body, make new friends and feel great. Tuesday mornings @9.30 Beginners welcome. Contact Rochelle. For more information, please email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au or call 07 5671 7388.
BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE.
The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Friday from 5 pm-6 pm at St Vincent’s Church (40 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise).
Join us for a read/study break and open The Word weekly from 5 pm to 6 pm. For further enquiries, please contact the Parish Office. surfers@bne.catholic.net.au
PRAYER GROUP - SPANISH SPEAKER
Jesús de la Misericordia. Invites you to participate on the 3rd Saturday of each 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 -
SACRED HEART CHURCH PARKING
A special notice - when parking, please leave the emergency and taxi pickup “yellow painted area” clear for ambulance or brief taxi drop off and pickup and the disabled parking areas are only for disability permit persons - thanks for your assistance in ensuring this important compliance]
PARISH PODCAST
To tune in to 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
A VOCATION VIEW:
Each of us experiences a story of God's self-revelation in a unique way. Tell your story. Add to the beautiful mosaic of God's life in this world with the story of your life.
To talk to someone about your vocation, contact Vocation Brisbane: 1300 133 544. vocation@bne.catholic.net.au and www.vocationbrisbane.com
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION -“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son…”JOHN 3:16
Is your love conditional? Is there a price others have to pay to receive your love and forgiveness? Are you generous with your time, skills, money and possessions? If you give someone something, do you expect something in return? Do you give your time freely, or do you “fit it in” when it’s convenient for you? God desires a personal relationship with us so much that He gave us His Son unconditionally! Pray for a grateful and generous heart.
The vision of Stewardship speaks in every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous and accountable for what each has been given.
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TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH - Widen the circle
Trinity Sunday isn't for parsing the Three-in-One. It's an invitation to meditate on the mutual self-giving of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who "so love the world" that we all share in the divine embrace. Yet, to child victims of aggression, their experience has felt outside of any caring circle. That's why the U.N.'s “Convention on the Rights of the Child” was the most rapidly and widely ratified rights treaty in history. It ensures every child has a right to life, a name, family or guardian, health care, education, freedom of religion—even the right to play. Encircle the children in your life with tenderness.
SIGN UP FOR "TAKE FIVE" ww.takefiveforfaith.com/subscribe.
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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.
THIS WEEKEND’S GOSPEL
-To listen to the whole Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, including the Easter Mass - please visit this link:
Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) - https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks.
Homily: The Most Holy Trinity - A - Sunday, May 31, 2026
The Communion of the Most Holy Trinity
The celebration of God as Trinity reveals to us the true nature of our God, and shows us what's in the very heart of the one who is at the centre of the whole universe. And that nature is community, communion, sharing, harmony, and of course, love. If we look at what Jesus did not hunger for, it's very revealing.
He did not hunger for money. In fact, he warned us to be very wary of its hollow charms. He did not hunger for popularity.
In fact, the popularity contest was terribly won by a thief and a murderer named Barabbas. Rather, the true thirst and hunger of Jesus was that he longed to share his blessings with others. He thirsted for others' faith and participation.
He longed to protect and comfort the poor and the struggling. This is faith, hope, and love. Blessed be God the Father, and the only begotten Son of God, and also the Holy Spirit, for he has shown us his merciful love.
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The celebration of God as Trinity also reveals to us the true nature of God and shows us what is in the heart of the one who is at the centre of the universe. That nature of our God is a perfect community of persons with one divine nature, and within this union is communion, sharing, harmony, and above all, love, which is God's nature. If we look at what Jesus did not hunger for, it's just as revealing as what he did hunger for.
He did not hunger for money. In fact, he was very suspicious of it and treated it with suspicion. He warned us to be very wary of its hollow charms.
He did not hunger for popularity. In fact, a thief and a murderer, namely Barabbas, horribly won the popularity contest and he was released and Jesus was executed. The true thirsting and hunger of Jesus is this.
He longed to share with others. He thirsted for others' faith and participation. He longed to protect and comfort the poor and the struggling.
He could hardly wait to usher in the kingdom of peace, the kingdom of mercy and grace and inclusion, to invite us all into the inner life of God who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the three in one, which we particularly celebrate today. It breaks your heart, doesn't it, seeing so many people around the world clearly searching for something that will truly satisfy their longings. These paths they think are life-giving, they seem attractive, but ultimately they prove to be dead ends and very unsatisfying.
But does it stop us? No. We can tend to keep rushing down more and more paths of the next attractive glittering possibilities, whether it be the pursuit of money as supposedly the solution to everything, which it clearly isn't, power, influence, or celebrity. So many things in this world and society cry out for our attention, inviting us to get enmeshed in them.
May the Spirit of Truth guide us as we discern through the light of Jesus' words and actions just what are the truly life-giving treasures that we should be putting all our heart and soul into.
When we look at our local parish community, we're greatly heartened. When we look around the communities of the world, we see some very encouraging things.
In so many ways, people have asked themselves, now that I'm a follower of Jesus, a child of God, what shall I do in a very practical way to make a difference? God has answered our prayer in many varying ways and very satisfying ways that brings grace and benefit and service to so many people. People have joined, for example, Saint Vincent de Paul's Society and have done wonderful practical actions of charity to make a difference in the lives of people in need, to give them the dignity and respect that they have as children of God and vessels of Christ's presence. Others have joined the Surface Paradise Catholic Ladies and shared in the community, combining prayer, friendship, and good works to help others.
Other people have joined Rosie's Street Ministry to reach out to our brothers and sisters who are living on the streets and in need, and there are many, many other ministries in the parish and the wider community too. A wonderful variety of ministries and activities are all part of the parish's mission, and we know that we're doing it in communion with Christ and with the Holy Spirit and the Heavenly Father because we are abiding in them and they in us. The list of different ministries and ways of practically helping people is wonderfully long.
There's so much to do, and God is calling each and every one of us in our own local sphere of influence to be united, to be in communion with God and with one another in the spirit of cooperation, practical assistance, and spiritual support.
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REFERENCES:
FR. PAUL W. KELLY
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To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this
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.
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THE WISDOM OF THE SAINTS:
Saint Justin, Martyr (- 165)
He was born at the beginning of the second century in Nablus, in Samaria, to a pagan Greek family. He was an earnest seeker of truth and studied many systems of philosophy before being led, through Platonism, to Christianity. While remaining a layman, he accepted the duty of making the truth known and travelled from place to place proclaiming the gospel. In 151 he travelled from Ephesus to Rome, where he opened a school of philosophy and wrote defences and expositions of Christianity, which have survived to this day and are the earliest known writings of their kind.
In the persecution of 165, in the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius, he was denounced as a Christian, arrested and beheaded. The transcript of his trial by the prefect of Rome, Rusticus, has also survived: it can be found in today’s Office of Readings.
Justin treats the Greek philosophy that he studied as mostly true, but incomplete. In contrast to the Hebrew tendency to view God as making revelations to them and to no one else, he follows the parable of the Sower and sees God as sowing the seed of wisdom throughout the world, to grow wherever the soil would receive it. When we argue with people who disagree with us, we would do well to assume that they too are seeking wisdom and have found the truth of a kind. Since there is only one God and one Truth, it is our task not to contradict or belittle their achievement, but to show them how their strivings and searches are ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This is harder to do – not least because we have to take the trouble to understand our own faith thoroughly – but it is ultimately more worthwhile.See also the article in the Catholic Encyclopaedia.
St Marcellinus and St Peter
Marcellinus and Peter were beheaded on the outskirts of Rome. A few years after the event, a little boy from Rome heard about their deaths from the mouth of their executioner, who later became a Christian. That little boy was named Damasus, and he went on to become Pope from 366 to 384. Decades later, remembering the story he had heard as a child, Pope Damasus honoured Marcellinus and Peter by adorning their tomb with a marble inscription recounting the details of their martyrdom as he had heard them so long ago. Unfortunately, the inscription is lost.
➔ Saint Charles Lwanga and his companions (- 1885/7)
◆ Many Christians, Catholic and Protestant, were killed by the Ugandan king Mwanga. Some of them were servants in the king’s palace or even his personal attendants. Charles Lwanga and his twenty-one companions (the youngest, Kizito, was only 13) were executed for being Christians, for rebuking the king for his debauchery and his murder of an Anglican missionary, for “praying from a book,” and for refusing to allow themselves to be unspeakably assaulted by the king. They died between 1885 and 1887. Most of them were burned alive in a group after being tortured.
◆ Within a year of their deaths, the number of catechumens in the country quadrupled. St Charles Lwanga is the patron of Catholic Action and of black African youth, and the Ugandan martyrs’ feast day is a public holiday in Uganda.
MEMORIAL OF NORBERT, BISHOP
◆TODAY'S READINGS: Tobit 2:9-14; Mark 12:13-17 (354). "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."
◆ One bread, one body. A painting by Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens—called The Defenders of the Eucharist—includes a serene Saint Norbert, his white robes wrapped around a ciborium (the cup that holds the consecrated Eucharist) as he cradles the Blessed Sacrament. Norbert founded the Norbertine religious order as well as the first Third Order for laypeople embracing the spirit of religious life. And, as a successful peacemaker, he’s often depicted with an olive branch. But Norbert’s preaching about the Blessed Sacrament, convincing entire villages to reclaim their lost belief in the Real Presence—also having eucharistic miracles happen on his watch—has earned him the title “Apostle of the Blessed Sacrament.” May he inspire our devotion as the National Eucharistic Revival enters its second phase this month.
Mark 12:13-17 (354). "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."
St MARCELLIN CHAMPAGNAT.
Marcellin Champagnat was born on the 20th May 1789 in a hamlet near St. Etienne, named Le Rosey in France. He was one out of nine children with four brothers and four sisters. As a child, he witnessed the horrible punishments given to children, and he wanted to change that. One of his famous quotes: "If you want to teach young people, first you must love them - love them equally." Through this quote, he taught us the valuable lesson that cruel punishments would not encourage students to learn.
Middle Life. When Marcellin came of age, he was sent to school. Marcellin was terrified by the discipline and punishments given to students by the students and immediately hated it.
When a priest from the seminary was sent to Le Rosey and visited the Champagnat family, he asked if any of the five boys were interested in the priesthood, Marcellin accepted, and it was here when he began his life as a priest.
Montagne Story. As one of his duties as a priest, Marcellin Champagnat was called to the bedside of a sick teenage boy who Marcellin determined knew absolutely nothing regarding religion. With this, Marcellin Champagnat spent two whole hours talking and teaching the boy about God, and finally, he finished by hearing the boy's confession. The boy died soon after and was even more determined to begin his Order of Brothers.
Marist Brothers. 2nd January 1817 was the date on which the Marist Brothers' Order was established. Only beginning with two members - Marcellin and another brother - they lived as a family. They prayed, studied, and worked together. To make themselves a living, they made nails made of iron. Later, in Spring, a third companion joined, and they soon received a fourth, increasing the little community of Marist Brothers to five members.
Memorare in the Snow: St. Marcellin Champagnat. An episode is often told about Fr. Marcellin Champagnat's deep compassion and confidence in Mother Mary. In February 1823, a brother became seriously ill in an isolated village. Marcellin was keen to comfort him. Despite the horrible weather conditions - heavy snowfall - Marcellin, accompanied by another brother, set out on foot for the other brother. The two found themselves stuck in a storm. However, Marcellin prayed constantly to Mary in hopes they would be saved. Shortly, a farmer came out with a light informing the brothers he had this sudden urge to check on his cattle. It was this when Marcellin believed that Mother Mary heard his prayers and rescued them.
The Growth of the Order - On the 6th of June 1840, while the Brothers were singing the "Salve Regina" in the chapel, Marcellin Champagnat - aged 51 - passed away due to cancer. Despite his death, the Order of Marist Brothers continued strongly, continuing to spread his love and teachings. On the 18th of August 1999, he was canonised by Pope John Paul II. Today, the Marist community are found worldwide.
The Marist Brothers came to Australia after an invitation from an Archbishop from Sydney, and today, there are around 4,000 Marist Brothers nationwide.
PAPAL REFLECTION
Image Credit- Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 2285846983 - The Pope AND the Catholic Church and the mercy of God. Vector Contributor: doom.ko
Pope on Pentecost: The Spirit shatters our inner chains and transforms us
During the Mass for the Solemnity of Pentecost, Pope Leo XIV recalls how the Holy Spirit accomplished 'something extraordinary' in the lives of the Apostles, and suggests that today, the Holy Spirit likewise descends upon us, ready to shatter our inner chains, fears, and hardened hearts, to make us new.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
"Today, too, what took place in the Upper Room takes place anew in our midst. Like a mighty wind that overtakes us, like a crash that startles us, like a fire that illuminates us, the gift of the Holy Spirit descends upon us."
Pope Leo XIV offered this comforting reminder during his Mass for the Solemnity of Pentecost, which also marked the Mass for the Jubilee of Ecclesial Movements, Associations and New Communities, on Sunday morning in St. Peter's Square.
During his homily, the Holy Father underscored how the Holy Spirit accomplished "something extraordinary" in the lives of the Apostles.
Shatters inner chains of Apostles and anoints them
While "following Jesus’ death, they had retreated behind closed doors, in fear and sadness," now, Pope Leo observed, "they receive a new way of seeing things, an interior understanding that helps them to interpret the events that occurred and to experience intimately the presence of the Risen Lord."
In this context, the Pope marveled that the Holy Spirit "overcomes their fear, shatters their inner chains, heals their wounds, anoints them with strength and grants them the courage to go out to all and to proclaim God’s mighty works."
Pope Leo XIV recalled that at Pentecost, the doors of the Upper Room were opened because the Spirit opens borders, as he quoted the late Pope Benedict XVI's words in a 2005 Pentecost homily: “The Holy Spirit bestows understanding. The Spirit overcomes the ‘breach’ that began in Babel, the confusion of mind and heart that sets us one against the other. The Spirit opens borders..."
'The Spirit opens borders'
Calling this an eloquent image of Pentecost, Pope Leo XIV went on to reflect on this idea, noting the Spirit "opens border" first of all in our hearts, and "is the Gift that opens our lives to love."
"His presence," the Pope reassured, "breaks down our hardness of heart, our narrowness of mind, our selfishness, the fears that enchain us and the narcissism that makes us think only of ourselves."
The Holy Spirit, he went on to suggest, comes "to challenge us."
New way of approaching life
Moreover, the Spirit, Pope Leo stressed, allows us to find a new way of approaching and experiencing life, observing, "He puts us in touch with our inmost self, beneath all the masks we wear. He leads us to an encounter with the Lord by teaching us to experience the joy that is His gift."
"He convinces us, that only by abiding in love," the Pope suggested, "will we receive the strength to remain faithful to His word and to let it transform us."
Opening our hearts, overcoming our rigidity and passions
He also observed that the Spirit also opens borders in our relationship with others.
Recalling Jesus' explanation that the gift of the Spirit "is the love between Him and the Father that comes to dwell within us," the Pope said this enables us to "open our hearts to our brothers and sisters, overcoming our rigidity, moving beyond our fear of those who are different, and mastering the passions that stir within."
Moreover, he said, the Spirit "transforms those deeper, hidden dangers that disturb our relationships, like suspicion, prejudice or the desire to manipulate others," adding, " I think too, with great pain, of those cases where relationships are marked by an unhealthy desire for domination, an attitude that often leads to violence, as is shown, tragically, by numerous recent cases of femicide."
'Critical yardstick for the Church'
The Pope explained that the Holy Spirit brings the fruits within us to maturity in order to cultivate good and healthy relationships, and in doing so, broadens the borders of our relationships and opens us to the joy of fraternity.
"This," he stressed, "is also a critical yardstick for the Church," reminding that we are only "truly the Church of the Risen Lord and disciples of Pentecost," "if there are no borders or divisions among us; if we are able to dialogue and accept one another in the Church, and to reconcile our diversities; and if, as Church, we become a welcoming and hospitable place for all."
Pentecost renews
The Holy Father also recognized that the Holy Spirit also opens borders between peoples, underscoring that "God’s 'breath' unites our hearts," "makes us view others as our brothers and sisters," and "breaks down barriers and tears down the walls of indifference and hatred."
With this in mind, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed, "Pentecost renews the Church, renews the world!"
"May the strong wind of the Spirit," Pope Leo concluded before imploring the Blessed Mother in prayer, "come upon us and within us, open the borders of our hearts, grant us the grace of encounter with God, enlarge the horizons of our love and sustain our efforts to build a world in which peace reigns."
Pope Leo XIV on Pentecost Sunday (@Vatican Media)
Receiving Holy Communion: A Gentle Reminder
The reception of Holy Communion is one of the most sacred moments of our Catholic life. To assist both communicants and communion ministers, it is helpful that our actions are clear, reverent, and consistent.
The Australian Catholic Bishops have asked that we observe common practices so that Communion may be received smoothly and prayerfully.
Preparing as You Approach
As you come forward in the procession, please be ready and clear about how you intend to receive Communion. Avoid last‑second changes or unclear gestures, as these can be confusing for the minister.
Those not receiving Communion should approach with arms crossed over the chest in a clear, dignified manner so the minister understands that a blessing is being requested.
Those receiving Communion should show their intention clearly, and well before reaching the minister.
Receiving Communion in the Hand
If you receive the Host in the hand:
Place your dominant hand underneath your other hand. Lift your hands up to a comfortable height, flat and steady, well before it is your turn.
Once in front of the minister, please stand as still as possible. Your head and body should be still.
Hold your hands clearly so the minister can see and reach your uplifted hands easily.
The Priest or minister will say “The Body of Christ” and you reply “AMEN”.
Once the Host is placed onto your hand, you then reverently pick up the host with your dominant hand which has been underneath the upper hand and please consume the host immediately, before walking away.
Unless there is a medical reason, the host is to be received, not taken.
The host is placed on the flat open hand of the recipient, with the person's dominant hand underneath this hand. Once the host is placed in your hand, you bring your dominant hand from underneath the upper hand and pick up the host and place it in your mouth. When the communion is presented to you, please never grab or clutch at the host. The host is always received, not taken. The host is placed on the hand of the recipient who then takes and consumes it reverently.
Please do not put only one hand forward - (unless there is a medical reason). Please use both hands: one open and flattened hand is resting upon the other flattened and open hand.
Please do not have your hands side by side to each other, but one hand above the other. Presenting two hands side by side is greatly confusing for the communion minister as they have to needlessly decide which hand to place the host upon, and the host could accidentally fall through the two hands as the recipient separates their hands to consume the host. Ministers present large numbers of people with hosts, so confusing hand positions cause delays and can lead to hosts falling.
Please see below the correct and incorrect positions - shown by either a tick or a cross.
Some people choose to Receive Communion on the Tongue
If you receive Communion on the tongue:
Approach the minister with hands together in a prayer‑like position. 🙏
When you reach the minister, stand as still as possible. Extend your tongue clearly and prominently, allowing the priest or minister to place the Host securely and reverently. Please do NOT merely open your teeth a fraction, as one cannot expect the minister to put the host in like a postal slot.
Merely opening the mouth without extending the tongue outside the mouth is not acceptable.
here is the correct way …
Below are some incorrect ways..:
Avoid movement of your head or body at the moment the Host is being given.
Please do not put your head back, as that makes the mouth even further away from the minister and would also require the minister to drop the host into a person's mouth, which is extremely awkward and also could cause choking.
Receiving the Chalice
It is encouraged to receive communion under both species- that is, the host and the chalice. It is a more full sign of the Last Supper where Jesus said “take and eat” as well as “take and drink”
having said this, it is not compulsory to receive both the host and chalice but it is encouraged.
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus is truly received in his Body and Blood in the host and also in the Precious Blood of the chalice. If someone only receives the Host, they receive Jesus in his Body and Blood. If someone only receives the chalice they receive Jesus in his Body and Blood. Those who receive both receive Jesus in his Body and Blood but in a more full sign.
The Chalice, when it is offered, is handed to the recipient. Please receive the chalice with your two hands, but be careful to take the chalice in a place other than where the minister is holding it.
From the picture above, notice that the minister is holding the chalice in the middle and the person receiving the chalice is taking it reverently with two hands, and safely holding the chalice at a different position, namely at the bottom and near the top.
As an example of an incorrect situation: If the recipient took the chalice at the same place where the minister was holding it, the minister would not be able to release their grip of the chalice and it would cause much confusion and could even cause the chalice to be dropped. This seems like an obvious trap to avoid, but we personally have had the situation several times when someone has taken the chalice at the same position that I was holding it and I have had to politely ask them to “please could you let go of my hand, as I am stuck.” It is an astounding thing to happen and a worrying moment.
It is completely forbidden to take the chalice by trying to sip the chalice while the minister is still holding the chalice. The chalice must be taken gently into the two hands of the person receiving it and firmly into the hands of the recipient who then raises the chalice to their own lips and takes a small, reverent sip and carefully hands the chalice back to the minister.
The ministers of communion will hold up the host and say “the body of Christ” -
and the minister of the chalice will hold it up and say “the Blood of Christ” as the situation applies. The recipient says in a clear voice: “Amen.” The proper answer is not “yes” or “thanks” or “it is” or “we are” or “cheers” or anything else other than “Amen”.
Communion ministers are not meant to overpersonalise communion by saying “the body of Christ, Jenny” or “the body of Christ, Ted” - In communion we are all one body in Christ coming together, collectively as the body of Christ. Distinctions at that holy moment are unnecessary and unhelpful. In any case, unless one knows the names of every single person in the whole church, including visitors and people who are coming in late, or strangers, then naming some people but not others is exclusionary.
Therefore there is great wisdom in following the exact wording of the ritual, which is for the communion minister to simply say “the Body of Christ”, or “the Blood of Christ.”
The universal answer to both statements is always simply a clear and audible “Amen”
The Common Gesture of Reverence
The Australian bishops have asked that all Catholics adopt a common posture of reverence before receiving Holy Communion.
In Australia, in place of genuflecting or kneeling before or as receiving in communion, the bishops ask that people, while the person in front of them is receiving communion, give a simple bow of the head and then come forward and receive communion without any further bows or kneeling or genuflecting.
The appropriate moment to bow the head is when the person in front of you is receiving Communion.
After bowing, walk fully upright towards the minister with your hands in position for receiving communion and receive Communion without further bowing.
Bowing while standing directly in front of the minister (as they are handing you the host or the chalice) can cause great practical difficulties, as the recipients hands and/or head moves just as the Host or chalice is being given to them.
For example, one often sees a minister handing the host to the communion recipient and trying to place the host onto their extended hands just as they bow their head, (which is too late and should have happened before this time); and their hand moves down and away from the minister just as they are trying to place it in their hand. It looks bad and doesn’t work.
Consuming the Host
It is vital that the Host be consumed immediately upon reception.
Please do not walk away holding the Host.
Ministers will become understandably concerned if someone moves off from the communion line without consuming the Host. This leads to unnecessary confusion or disruption. A person who walks away without consuming the host immediately will likely be asked to consume it immediately. People in line who take the host and look at it curiously and don’t consume the host immediately usually are a red-alert to the priest and the ministers that this person should not be receiving communion and does not appear to know what they are doing or what the meaning of communion is.
Parents and adult carers, please explain to younger children about the difference between receiving communion and receiving a blessing.
This includes ensuring that the children have their hands in the correct position.
Children who have not yet made their communion and who are walking in the communion line should be reminded, before they come forward, that they need to have their hands in a cross formation across their chest as a sign that they seek a blessing and not communion.
“Receiving a blessing” or receiving communion” are mutually exclusive things, so sometimes a child will come forward for a blessing and then stand waiting to
also receive communion and that is a sign that they don’t fully understand what is meant to be happening. “It is one or the other, not both.”
A Final Note
Communion may be received either in the hand or on the tongue; People are encouraged to receive in the hand. Kneeling is not required. If someone desires to receive on the tongue they r kneel they can, but the bishops strongly recommend a common posture by all the community. They recommend a bow of the head whilst the person in front of you is receiving the host. What matters most is that our actions are reverent, clear, and considerate of those who minister the sacrament.
Thank you for helping ensure that the reception of Holy Communion remains a moment of prayer, dignity, and shared faith for all.
** The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 26”
An ancient medieval practice in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk on the annual Solemnity of the Epiphany. On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:
20 + C + M + B + 26 *
* “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, the Wise Men visited, paid homage to the Lord, and were welcomed into the Holy Family’s hospitality. We dedicate the present year, ‘26, 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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SYNOD 24 - ARCHDIOCESE OF BRISBANE - ACTION PLANS
For in-depth resources please visit the following link:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1taBpy2wR96rMslEbWHpiDI3jaDpS_rzYJ_iqYLQWygw/edit?usp=sharing
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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. ………………..
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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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For more details on safeguarding please visit here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ja2NmPbkoqk5Jw4bfDdZVRwWHAIPQfn7qU5uQZ3oYD8/edit?usp=sharing
Sacred Heart Church and Parish office - (directions and location)
50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. Queensland 4226
(The best entry is the southern entrance off Fairway Drive, nearest to Santa Cruz Boulevard).
map: -
Our parish office location is found here: Please see here for a map with details of the location of the parish office. Please see below for a photo of the Catholic Parish office ……(with the name “Glendalough - Parish Office” written on a sign over the door - Glendalough is pronounced “Glenda-lock” and is named after a famous Irish location where Catholic Saint Kevin lived- one of our schools in the parish is named St Kevin’s in honour that patron saint).
Below is a picture of the Sacred Heart church, which is located on the same grounds (to the left of the parish office)
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