Wednesday, July 03, 2024

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 7, 2024 (EPISODE: 486)

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, July 7, 2024 (EPISODE: 486)


Licensed Image. Stock AI-generated image ID: 2462373915 - Jesus in the synagogue --Important information - This image was generated by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system. AI-generated image Contributor: Shutterstock AI Generator.

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  - Sunday, July 7, 2024
(EPISODE: 486)


Readings for Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B

FIRST READING: Ezek 2: 2-5
Ps 123: 1-2a, 2bc, 3-4. "Our eyes are fixed on the Lord, pleading for his mercy. "
SECOND READING:
 2 Cor 12: 7-10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 4: 18). 
Alleluia, alleluia! The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he sent me to bring the Good news to the poor. Alleluia!
GOSPEL:
 Mark 6: 1-6 


++++
Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B  - Sunday, July 7, 2024, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-14th-sunday-ordinary-time-year-b-episode-486/s-VifQQhhGRJT

(EPISODE:486)
+++++
* (Prologue:  Fr Paul Kelly)
In Australia, this is also, (Annually on the first Sunday in July), 
   when Catholics come together across Australia to acknowledge and celebrate the unique and beautiful gifts of Australia's First peoples. On this National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Catholic Sunday, we pray for ever-increasing harmony and respect among all who share in this beautiful land of the Holy Spirit.
++++++++

When Jesus visited his hometown, he had a very poor reaction. People could not cope with him. Like all the prophets before him, he spoke the message of the kingdom faithfully, irrespective of popularity, and even in the face of rejection.


Also, the people did not believe that he was the Messiah or anyone special for that matter. In some ways, our Lord was too ordinary for them. He was not enough for them.


Jesus the carpenter? How could he be a prophet, let alone more than a prophet? The Messiah? The long-promised Messiah? It can't be. We know him too well. We've seen him growing up.


We know his family. There isn't anything special enough about him, they would have objected. They couldn't see anything in him, and they wouldn't look for it either.


He seemed too ordinary, too normal, and not special enough. So in one of the most bizarre incidents in the gospel, we hear that our Lord could work no miracles there, and then almost as an afterthought, it says he could only heal a few sick people. Only heal a few people? That's amazing! But considering what he could have done if they'd opened their hearts and minds to him, you sure know you've got a tough crowd in front of you, and even the beautiful things he was achieving were not impressive enough for them.


And that's the beauty of this gospel message today. Even today, we still can fall for the trap of thinking that the divine, the special, and the exciting can only be found in the different, in the unusual, the dramatic, and the new. So we fail to see the wonders right under our noses.


We don't see the blessings and enormous graces that are hiding in plain sight, as the saying goes. And so here comes Jesus, one who was ordinary just like them, who grew up in their hometown and performed the same daily chores as everyone else. He ate with people, he worked, he laughed and cried just like everyone else.


What's so special about that, they ask? How can this ordinary person be so extraordinary? Essentially, they said, how can the promised messiah be quite that human? They failed to understand the mystery and the miracle of the incarnation. But here's the true miracle, the miracle of the incarnation. God was made flesh in Christ.


It's precisely in the exercise of all the virtues of ordinary human life and relations, in trust, acceptance, patience, faithfulness, that we all too experience the building up of the kingdom and the power of the Christ. If we live our lives with faith, hope, and love, then Christ, God at work in our lives, remakes and refashions us in the image of God's kingdom through the ordinariness of our daily virtues and actions. The ordinary are major foundational building blocks for the extraordinary.


Our Lord even said in frustration, it's a wicked generation that asks for a sign, none will be given to it. Jesus didn't want people to believe in him only because he provided them with spectacles and miraculous supplies of bread and fish, or even because he could calm storms, heal sick people, or do exceptional actions that stunned them. Instead, he wanted them to learn about his message, the ways of God, the principles and foundations of the kingdom of God.


He wanted them to live the gospel message in all its beauty, and truly in its inclusiveness, its mercy, justice, practical charity, and compassion. He wanted them to live it in its miraculous ordinariness. The gospel was not about smoke and mirrors, but about the divine that could be found in the everyday of life, in the incarnate moments of life.


His message was not about lightning and earthquakes, but about the gentle breeze of God's presence in and through the ordinary events of people and action in our lives. This gospel reminds us to look for the extraordinary in the ordinary, to seek the wisdom of God wherever it's found, especially in unlikely and unexceptional situations. These two readings challenge us today to perceive the presence of God in one another, to listen to the Holy Spirit speaking in our hearts and in the hearts of others, and to have hearts that are open to one another.


Although our Lord was unique and His divinity derives from His very nature as the Son of God, who is eternally one in being with the Father, our Lord also tells us that God's Spirit dwells within us and allows us to share in this divine life of God. So whilst we do not expect to find divinity in one another precisely the same way divinity was fully present in our Lord, we know that God is truly present in every human being. Too often we can ignore that presence, or even deny it by our actions and attitudes, that God has made truly His home in us.


St. Paul in the second reading has a very different problem. He is so aware of the divine presence within himself that he must concentrate on his weaknesses so that he might keep paying attention to his utter reliance on God's grace and mercy, and the real needs and struggles of others. He realises that his incredible spiritual gifts can tempt him to go astray if he gets too proud or self-absorbed in the graces God has given to him.


So Paul focuses on his weakness and brokenness. St. Paul has learned a very important lesson and wants to share it with all of us. We tend to assume that the way to achieve important things in life is naturally under our own steam, by our own talent and our own strengths and virtues.


But God says to St. Paul and to us, my grace is sufficient for you, my power is revealed in weakness. But what does that mean? When I am weak, I am strong. How can that be? It sounds as contradictory as it seems.


When we rely solely on our talent, strength and competence, as good as that may be, it's easy to reinforce that it's all about me, and it's all about us. It's unclear how this relates to God's way of thinking and God's way of acting. If God's ways, as we're often told in the scriptures, are love and freedom, mercy, choice, inclusion and persuasion, not force or overwhelming strength or control, those things have no place in God's ways.


The opposite of force is what looks like weakness to the world. Compassion, charity, mercy, vulnerability, grace, forbearance. When we experience weakness or realize what we lack, there's the opposite situation.


Our weakness creates an ample space for God to come in and work in us. If we're filled up to capacity with what we can do and what's good about us, it doesn't leave a lot of space for God to come in and do God's work. God can work wonders in the space that's not about us, not about me, but about the other.


Our lack creates space for freedom, which is one of God's great values. People are free to listen or not. People in our Lord's time, even in our time, want God to reveal himself in dramatic, powerful and obvious ways, but that stops us from looking for God's presence in the ordinary, in the people on the margins, and in those who are seen to be weak or judged to be weak.


We might be tempted to think that spreading God's word and proclaiming the gospel of Christ must require the best, the strongest, the most charismatic people and the most perfect people, and yet that's not the way God thinks. A quick look through the Bible indicates that God has called people to serve him, people who were often notably flawed, confused and even downright self-interested and sinful at times. Many, many people who are now official saints of God's church served God despite some astounding barriers.


Many had really serious physical, spiritual or emotional obstacles that would have seemingly made it impossible for them to achieve anything, let alone a holiness and greatness in God's eyes, without relying on and cooperating with God's grace. This can't be a coincidence. We can be so clearly aware of the teachings of our Lord in all of today's readings.


Practically, these teachings invite us to look for the divine in others and be aware of our weaknesses and brokenness. Isn't it true that we so often fall into the trap of doing the things the other way around? We can see the brokenness and sinfulness of others while failing to deal with our own weakness, our own brokenness and sinfulness. There's a danger that we can spend too much time searching for the divine within our own lives and not spend enough time exploring and finding it alive and well in those around us, especially the most unexpected people.


When we learn to see the divine in others and our brokenness, we are ready to form communion with others and that's what the Church is, the Body of Christ. Let's ask our Lord today to send His Holy Spirit on us and strengthen us so that we may never fear to speak the truth and speak this truth always with love, compassion and consistently build up the Body of Christ. And may we continue to ask the Lord for the healing of our sinfulness and brokenness so that we might be wonderful instruments, even if slightly cracked, of God's grace and love pouring in.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

REFERENCES:

 

FR. PAUL W. KELLY

 

O'Flynn, S. (2002). Sunday seeds. Dublin: Columba Press.

 

Gutiérrez, G. and Dees, C. (1997). Sharing the Word through the liturgical year. 1st ed.

Maryknoll: Orbis Books.

 

Sandell, J. (2004). Seasons in the Word. Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press.

 

Abbot's Homilies - Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert. (2012). [online] Benedictine Abbey of Christ in the Desert. Available at: https://christdesert.org/updates/abbots-homilies/

 

++++++
References:

Homily –Fr Paul W. Kelly

Licensed Image. Stock AI-generated image ID: 2462373915 - Jesus in the synagogue --Important information - This image was generated by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system. AI-generated image Contributor: Shutterstock AI Generator.




Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B   (Sunday, July 7, 2024)  (EPISODE: 486 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
+++++++++++++
{{May Our Lord's gift of dignity and community enliven you. }} welcome everyone, we gather -  Reflect upon the Holy Scriptures and the values of the Lord. 

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.

Lord Jesus, you are the image of the unseen God: Lord, have mercy.//You are the firstborn of all creation: Christ, have mercy//You are the head of the body, the Church: Lord, have mercy//

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Memorial Acclamation
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ps 123: 1-2a, 2bc, 3-4. "Our eyes are fixed on the Lord, pleading for his mercy. "

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Luke 4: 18). 
Alleluia, alleluia! The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he sent me to bring the Good news to the poor. Alleluia!
++++++++++++++++
PREFACE: 4
EP II
(theme variation: 2 )

++++
{Thank you for giving generously of  your time and prayer.}

go and announce the gospel of the lord
++++++++
Archive of homilies and reflections:  
http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  
paulwkelly68@gmail.com


To listen to our weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  
https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks


Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria, Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of William John (Bill) Kelly (1942-2017) -  Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.


- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

[ Production -  KER -  2024]

May God bless and keep you.

 

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. -Year B - Sunday, 30 June 2024 (EPISODE: 485)

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. -Year B -  Sunday, 30 June 2024 (EPISODE: 485)

Readings for Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.- Year B
FIRST READING: Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24
Ps 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b. "I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me."
SECOND READING:
2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (
cf. 2 Tim 1:10). Alleluia, alleluia! Our Saviour Jesus Christ has done away with death. And brought us life through his gospel.
GOSPEL:
Mark 5:21-43

 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Illustration Description. Stock Illustration ID: 2290758291 - art sketch - Illustration Contributor: ArtMari.

++++
Please listen to the audio-recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers and homily), for Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B - Sunday, 30 June 2024 - by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-13th-sunday-ordinary-time-year-b-episode-485/s-E9cUCOwrirS  
(EPISODE:485)
+++++
(Prologue:  Fr Paul Kelly)

Again this weekend, the Scriptures are beautiful and give us a deep insight into God's love and his utter commitment to us, his cherished sons and daughters.

 

Sadly, death is an all too clear reality in the world and in the lives of all of us.  

 

But The Lord is at pains to point out that death was not in God's original plan.   God's continuing plan is to assure us that we are forever his beloved children and that God will be faithful to us in this life and also into eternal life.   God wants us to be truly, always in his care. 

++++

In the midst of Loss, our beloved God is always reaching out to help and being with us, right in the middle of it.

 

God's reaction to death is virtually the same as ours ..  Sorrow….  .  A deep feeling of loss and an overwhelming compassion for those who are affected, - A depth of love and feeling for us, so deep and so great that one cannot adequately express in in words. 

 

God has the last word in everything -  and this is deeply reassuring in the midst of a world of hurt, suffering and tragedy.   Especially when not everything makes sense in our world.   We all have a relatively limited lifespan, and we don't get to see the whole picture. So it is deeply reassuring to know that God, who sees all of it, promises that what cannot be set right in this life - will most certainly be set right in the next.    But this God of justice is also quick to point out that there is no excuse for not doing everything possible to make things better and right in this life, and not to overlook injustices and wrongs with the excuse that "it will be all right in heaven."   Our Lord was constantly at work alleviating injustice, suffering, and desolation in this life, (right in there with people) and he also set about including the excluded, calling out double standards, forgiving those stuck in past wrongs, and all the time showing true compassion, love and generosity to everyone he met.  He calls us to follow in his loving footsteps.    

 

Jesus wants to bring life into every situation, and the promise of hope and life into even the direst of situations.  /.  He is the resurrection and the life.

 

In contrast, many of the treasures of this life, are in limited supply…   the amount of money and other earthly goods are limited, and unjustly they are not distributed evenly amongst all who are in need.   But, God's storehouse of true and lasting treasures, love, self-giving, compassion, mercy, sharing….  And so on…     there is no limit to this…  God's supplies are excessive and more than sufficient.  He invites us to join him in this different way of thinking, which leads to a different way of acting.

 

For example…  Jesus could have said, now that I have healed the lady who touched me.  my powers have been drained and that's all for today…   but no ./.  He didn't even know she was going to be inspired by faith to take this chance to touch him and be healed.   He congratulated her though for doing this in faith.  Then he continued on his way .. he was heading to the house of the official to heal this man's daughter and he would do this even after this surprise healing.   God's storehouses are overflowing…  we do not need to compete with each other for God's love, God's mercy or God's grace and faithfulness.  It is there in abundance for all. There is enough for all; even in times of the unexpected occurring.

 

We sometimes find unexpected requests and interruptions to be a trial and a peripheral annoyance, but Jesus included and responded as if this is rightly all part of life's expectations.  The unexpected was to be expected. And of course, it is. The unplanned and the unscheduled is actually a regular vast horizon of God's gracious possibilities and are to be eagerly responded to.   This requires us to change our thinking as well as our expectations.   

 

Our Lord says, after raising the girl from the dead.  Give her something to eat.  She is not just revived from the dead, she is fully alive and in need of nourishment like anyone else. 

These actions all show us that God wants us to fully engage in life and reach out to others in their needs.   The God of the resurrection is constantly at work turning disaster into life-giving possibilities and will, at the last, call each of us to get up and walk.

 

God never acts in half measures.

+++++++++++++
References:

Homily  Fr Paul W. Kelly


Image Credit: Shutterstock Licensed.

 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Illustration Description. Stock Illustration ID: 2290758291 - art sketch - Illustration Contributor: ArtMari.


Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.  Year B  -(Sunday, 30 June 2024(EPISODE: 485 )
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
+++++++++++++
{{May Our Lord's gift of dignity and community enliven you.}} welcome everyone, we gather -  Reflect upon the Holy Scriptures and the values of the Lord. On this Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you came to reconcile us to the Father and to one another: Lord, have mercy You heal the wounds of our sin and division: Christ, have mercy You intercede for us with the Father: Lord, have mercy
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
+++++++++++++++++++++
Memorial Acclamation
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ps 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b. "I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (
cf. 2 Tim 1:10). ). Alleluia, alleluia! Our Saviour Jesus Christ has done away with death. And brought us life through his gospel.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PREFACE: Ordinary 1
Eucharistic Prayer  2
(theme variation: theme 3 )

 

(post version: v1-long)

++++
{1. Thanks for joining us for this time of prayer and reflection}

3. Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

++++++++
Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to the weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by visting here:

https://surfersparadiseparish.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=85b9ddd594b242276d423bfe9&id=002282d9e0 


Details relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:

"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993). (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass in Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

"Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - In memory of William John Kelly (1942-2017) - Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.


"Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.


Sound Engineering and editing - P.W. Kelly.


Microphones: -
Shure Motiv MV5 Digital Condenser. And (2024+) Rode Nt-1 + AI-1 Sound Mixer.

Editing equipment:    -- MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software v10.49 (NCH Software).

NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 17.63 (NCH Software)

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 10 Audio Editor (Izotope Inc.)

[Production -  KER -  2024]

May God bless and keep you.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Friday, June 21, 2024

SPCP Newsletter: Sunday, 23 June 2024 - Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B

 PDF version of this parish newsletter *PDF here*: 

You can also access an online -web- copy of the newsletter *Webcopy here*

**

Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish E-Newsletter

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -  https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding

This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians of this region. (see here)

Parish Office (new): (07) 5671 7388 (9 am – 2 pm Mon-Fri) 

Email: surfers@bne.catholic.net.au | Website: www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au 

Emergencies: Priest contactable via office phone (after hours, follow the menu prompts)

50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland, 4226

https://tinyurl.com/SPCPsite 

2024: The Year of Prayer


Sunday, 23 June 2024 -

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year B 


Readings for Sunday, 23 June 2024 - Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

FIRST READING- Job 38:1, 8-11

Ps 107:23-24, 25-26, 28-29, 30-31. “Give thanks to the Lord, his love is everlasting”

SECOND READING- 2 Cor 5:14-17

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Luke 7:16). Alleluia, alleluia! A great prophet has appeared among us. God has visited his people.

GOSPEL- Mark 4:35-41


And waking up, he rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Be silent! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. (Mark 35:39) 

 

  Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 235857250 - PRCANJ, MONTENEGRO - JUNE 08: Jesus Calms a Storm on the Sea, the Catholic Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary, on June 08, 2012, in Prcanj, Montenegro - Important information. Editorial Use Only. -Photo Contributor: Zvonimir Atletic


We congratulate the Popov, Macrae, Enriquez and Larsen families whose children, ANIKA TROCIO, FREYA AGNIESZKA, MALAKAI SHEMUEL and MABEL, will be baptised in our Parish this week.  Please keep the Baptism families in your prayers as they begin their faith journey.


PASTOR’S POST - 


Important announcement re Gold Coast Marathon. 

Please note that Sunday, July 7th, is Gold Coast Marathon weekend. 

There will be no Sunday morning Mass at Stella Maris Broadbeach on that day. However, please come along to the Golden Anniversary of Fr Dan Ryan and Fr John Maher that day at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters, at 9 a.m.  


What is in a name?  

A lot!  - Especially when it comes to personal names and place names in the Bible. The names of various people in the bible are often as significant as the events that occur to them.  It is always inspiring and surprising to look up the meaning of people’s names and place names mentioned in the Bible. It adds a new level of depth and richness. 


This week (Monday, June 24th) is the feast of John the Baptist's birth. Interestingly, his Mother Elizabeth’s name means “My God gives plentifully,” and Zechariah’s name means “God remembers his promises.” John, the one who is to proclaim the coming of the Messiah, has a name that means “God has shown favour.”    


In many ways, this is just what has happened here.  


God has remembered his faithfulness and promises and showered his graciousness upon this couple who trusted his promises.  From before his birth, John is now blessed and appointed to be the one who prepares the way of the Lord, who will shower upon God’s people the favours and graces of God.  John is an outstanding figure of righteousness, faithfulness and austerity. He was utterly faithful to the promises of God and was a graced figure who called all people to repent and prepare for the Lord’s coming. John’s faithfulness to the message led to his martyrdom, and Jesus knew that a worse ending was inevitable for himself, too. However, faithfulness to the will of the Father would draw him to victory that the world can never fully comprehend. Trusting God’s promises and faithfulness in good times and bad is good.  


This feast is timed to be exactly six months before Christmas, as indeed, John was born six months before Our Lord.

Fr Paul

JUBILEE MASS CELEBRATION -Fr John Maher and Fr Dan Ryan 

Fr John Maher and Fr Dan Ryan are celebrating their 50th Anniversary of Priesthood this year. To give thanks for the blessings God has given us through their ministries, you are invited to a Golden Jubilee Mass for Fr Dan and Fr John at Sacred Heart Church,  50 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters, Queensland 4226, on Sunday, July 7th, at 9 a.m. Refreshments will follow. 

All are welcome. God bless.

DATE CLAIMER -   MEN’S BEREAVEMENT GROUP 

Friday, 26 July 2024, 12:30 pm, at the Parish Hospitality Centre—a low-key, friendly opportunity to gather and receive input from a facilitator. Further gatherings for support and fellowship are possible. 

++++

PLEASE FOR THE REPOSE OF THE SOULS OF BELOVED PARISHIONERS.

June Mye passed away after a very brief illness. She is known to many at the 9 a.m. Sunday Mass at Sacred Heart from the Piety Stall and her friendly smile and wave from her chair near the piety stall. 

And Celia Carvell, who only recently moved to Western Australia with her husband. Celia passed away suddenly.  May they now rest in the peace of God’s Heavenly Kingdom. 

 June Mye:     and Celia Carvell:     




DATE CLAIMER -  OFFICIAL INSTALLATION MASS FOR FR PAUL AS PARISH PRIEST -  BY HIS GRACE, ARCHBISHOP MARK COLERIDGE 

Installation of Parish Priest – Fr Paul 

Saturday  31st August 2024

Start: 9.30 am

Mass for the Installation of Parish Priest – Fr Paul

Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  50 Fairway Drive. Clear Island Waters. Qld 4226

+++++++++

The Ordination Mass for Fathers Bradley Davies and Michael My Van Tran -  

video online here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLO0dzcrTVg  


RECLAIM RETREAT FOR ADULTS 18-30

Reclaim Retreat is 3 days and 2 nights to get out of town, meet up with friends, make some new ones and make space for God. When was the last time you gave yourself space to rest? To restore not just your body but your mind, your soul, and your heart. And when you aren’t rushing, unplugged and unoccupied – what will God say to you? Open to young adults 18-30.

Where: Coolum Beach,  When: 5-7 July, Who: Young Adults 18-30, Cost: $175pp

More details available at https://tinyurl.com/ReclaimRt24


SYNOD 2024 - BRISBANE ARCHDIOCESE 

https://vimeo.com/957389678


In preparation for SYNOD24: I Am Making All Things New, a short video has been created. The video includes a pastoral message from the Archbishop on his vision for the Synod and a short FAQ discussion with myself as Synod Chair and Steph Unger, the Synod Executive Officer. The video can be viewed at:  https://vimeo.com/957389678

 

1: SYNOD24: I Am Making All Things New will be held in September and October.

 

2: Fr Paul, Fr Morgan Batt and parishioner Robyn Hunt are among the representatives who will attend the Synod. 

 

3: Our Archdiocesan synod is the next step on the Plenary Council journey and will discern practical and measurable actions that we will take as an Archdiocese to implement the focus areas (Decrees) that came out of the Plenary Council.

 

4: We are all asked to pray for those participating in the synod.

 

5: At the end of June, resources for parishes and communities to engage in synodal and spiritual conversations will be available. These resources will include simple versions of the Plenary Council Decrees and guided questions so the community can discern actions it would like to take to be a more co-responsible church on mission.

 

6: In July and August, a series of presentations will be given around the Archdiocese on synodality and its meaning for the global church and our own community. Information on these presentations will be available in the next two weeks.

 

7: To find out more about SYNOD24: I Am Making All Things New and the focus areas that came out of the Plenary Council, head to http://aobsynod2024.com 


Let us pray that the Holy Spirit's creativity will lead us to renewed participation in the life and ministry of the Church and that the Holy Spirit will fill the hearts of all the faithful, inspiring us to walk together in the hope, joy, and the mission of the Risen Christ. 

MenAlive Conference: menALIVE MAX 24 event

An opportunity to attend this annual event for men -

At the Carmelite Retreat House in Varroville, Sydney, from Friday, July 19, to Sunday, July 21. 

For more information, please contact - Christopher (Chris) Kennedy | MSpDir. Member | 

menALIVE National Ministry Team. 

Mobile: +61 412 270 828 Email: cbk1957@hotmail.com

Visit the website: https://menalive.org.au/  


To tune in to The Weekend Mass (the sound podcast), please regularly visit the link below to listen to the Mass (including the sermon) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish. Please see this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) -  (It is updated at intervals just before the following Sunday or Feastday - https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks    

Also found at -   https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk.  


Ecumenical Interfaith Presentation

by Evangelisation Brisbane   - Date and time- Saturday, 13 July 2024. 9:30 am - 12:00 pm

Location: Hanly Room, Francis Rush Centre, 196 Charlotte Street, Brisbane

View Map

Description

“The credibility of the Christian message would be much greater if Christians could overcome their divisions… We must never forget that we are pilgrims journeying alongside one another.”(Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium #244, 2013)

“Interreligious dialogue is a necessary condition for peace in the world, and so it is a duty for Christians as well as other religious communities.” (Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium #250, 2013)

  • How do these words of Pope Francis relate to you as a Catholic in 2024?

  • Do you provide religious instruction in State Schools? Do you work or visit aged care facilities or hospitals where residents come from various faith backgrounds? 

  • Do you teach the Study of Religion in Years 11 and 12? Are you a teacher or educational leader in a Catholic or other faith-based school?

  • Do you have a family member, friend or work colleague from another Christian Church or Faith community?

  • Are you just interested in learning more about the Catholic Church’s position on relations with other Christians and people of other faiths and want to know what is happening in Queensland?

You are invited to a free presentation on Saturday, July 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon in the Hanly Room, Francis Rush Centre, 196 Charlotte Street, Brisbane. This presentation will be live-streamed for people across Queensland who cannot attend in person. 

You may like to organise a group of friends or parishioners to do this together.

Certificates of attendance can be provided for anyone who may need them as proof of professional development participation.

For further information, please contact Margaret Naylon (Brisbane Archdiocese) at naylonm@bne.catholic.net.au

SYNOD24: I AM MAKING ALL THINGS NEW. 

 

Brisbane Archdiocese is just over three months out from Synod 2024

 

  • SYNOD24 will be held on two days in September and two days in October, where approximately 150 people representing the diversity of the Archdiocese will discuss, debate and vote on the proposed practical and measurable action plans. Synod Members must attend all four days. More information on SYNOD24 can be found here: https://aobsynod2024.com/what-is-synod24/

 

 

  • SYNOD24 honours the significant level of broad consultation, listening and discerning that has taken place throughout the Plenary Council journey (since 2018) and is the next step of this process. Over March, April and May, consultations have focused on voices that had not been heard previously: those on the margins, experts and experienced practitioners. This is to ensure the action plans are practical and measurable, reflect the needs of our Archdiocese, and truly reflect the responses submitted throughout the Plenary Council process. To remind yourself of the Plenary Council journey since 2018, head here: https://aobsynod2024.com/what-is-synod24/

 

For SYNOD24: I Am Making All Things New,.

Let us pray that the Holy Spirit's creativity will lead us to renewed participation in the life and ministry of the Church and that the Holy Spirit will fill the hearts of all the faithful, inspiring us to walk together in the hope, joy, and the mission of the Risen Christ. Lord, hear us. 






                 CHILDREN’S SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM  2024                                                                                                                                                                 

Cathy Anderson andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au.

Please use the information in the table below to begin or continue the faith journey with your child.


Sacrament Name                         & Sacrament Dates for 2024

Eligibility

And Cost

How to enrol, or check a child’s enrolment, or request information for Sacramental Preparation Groups in Surfers Paradise Parish, 2024

Sacrament of Baptism

Celebrations of the Sacrament of Baptism occur most Sundays of the Year at 10:30 am in Sacred Heart Church.                                                                              Bookings are linked to the online enrolment form (see info on the far right). **Baptism spaces are booked out a couple of months in advance. 

Children are eligible from birth.

 

(Administration cost for the preparation program -the Sacrament of Baptism is $130)

To submit a baptism enrolment application for a child from birth to 7 years old, go to the parish website www.surfersparadiseparish.com.au. Use the top menu bar and hover over Sacraments. Click on Baptism. Please read the baptism information and then scroll down to the blue-filled box with the link to the enrolment form you need. Click on the link in the box, complete the form and then click Submit. You should receive an automated response that the form has been received.  

To request information for Baptisms for children from birth to 8 years, Email the Parish Secretary, Merla Nario, at surfers@bne.catholic.net.au.                                                         For Children 8 years and older: Email your interest in having your child prepare to receive Baptism to our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson. andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au 

Sacrament of Confirmation

Dates:                        


Parent Meeting 5:30 pm, Sacred Heart Church,      Either 10.06.24 Or 11.06.24.


Final Meeting & Practice 5:30 pm, Sacred Heart Church,                            Either 19.08.24  Or 20.08.24

 

Celebration of Confirmation                                 Evening of Thursday, August 29. (Friday, August 30, is the Gold Coast Show Holiday.)

For Baptised Children in Year 3 or greater.


Administration cost for the preparation program -(other than Baptism is $150)

To enrol,
Go to the parish website (see address above). Use the top menu bar and hover over Sacraments. Click on Confirmation. Please read the information about Confirmation and then scroll down to the blue-filled box with the link to the form that you need. Click on the link in the box, complete the enrollment application form, and click Submit.  You should receive an automated response that the form has been received. Families enrolled online should have already received an email from our Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson.
For further information, Email Cathy Anderson at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au.                                                         

Sacrament of Eucharist - First Holy Communion  

The Program for this year has ended.  

Please stay tuned for 2025 dates advertised in this newsletter from December 2024.   

For children in Year 4 or greater who have been Baptised and Confirmed.

(Administration cost for the preparation program -other than Baptism, is $150)

A. If your child received the sacrament of Confirmation in Surfers Paradise Parish in 2024, they will be automatically included in the group to be contacted for Preparation for First Communion in 2025. Contact will be made via email by the Children’s Sacramental Coordinator, Cathy Anderson. The email will be sent in Term 1, 2025.
B. If your child was confirmed in Surfers Paradise Parish before 2024, please express your interest in joining the 2025 First Communion Group by emailing Cathy Anderson at andersoncm@bne.catholic.net.au 
C. If your child was confirmed in another parish, please follow the information in the To enrol, please call (see above this table). This information explains completing an online enrolment application and including your child in the 2025 First Communion Group.


MASS TIMES: SURFERS PARADISE MASS TIMES

Sacred Heart 

50 Fairway Drive

Clear Island Waters, 4226

Saturday Night - 5 pm  (Note: Reconciliations from 4-4.30 pm at Sacred Heart)

  • (Maronite Mass, 6:30 pm, Saturday Night). 

*Note: First Saturday of the month, morning Mass, Adoration and Benediction:  

9 am (Next: 6th July 2024)

Sunday - 9 am and 6 pm 

  • (Polish Mass 12:30 pm Sunday)

  • (Italian Mass 4 pm Sunday at Sacred Heart Church)

Weekday Masses - Monday - Friday weekday Mass - 9 a.m. 

The Healing Mass will return on the first Tuesday of the 7th of May 2024 at  10 am (2/7/2024) - At 10 am on the First Tuesday of the month.

{First Friday Night of the Month -  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at Sacred Heart Church - First Fridays of the Month, from 7 pm to 8.30 pm.  All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678. "Could you not watch with Me for one hour?" Mt 26:40}.

St Vincent’s

40 Hamilton Avenue.

Surfers Paradise

4217

Sunday - 8 am & 10 am 

(Hispanic Mass – 5.30 pm every Sunday) 


Extra parking is available only metres from St Vincent’s Church, King’s Car Park, and entry via Beach Road. It is also available on Remembrance Drive opposite the church, next to the new Essence Building.

Stella Maris 

254 Hedges Avenue, Broadbeach, 4218

Saturday - 5 pm


Sunday  -   7 am 



Hispanic (Latino American) Mass: Fr. Syrilus Madin. 5:30 pm Mass - Every Sunday -  St Vincent’s Catholic Church, Surfers Paradise. Gold Coast Contact: Juan Arrieta 0406 705 349


Polish Mass: Fr Jerzy Prucnal (Bowen Hills 3252 2200). 1.30 pm Mass ONLY for SUNDAYS 26 May and 2 June - Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters. Gold Coast Contact: George Syrek 0411 302 802 -

 

Italian Mass: Sunday, Sacred Heart Church at 4 p.m. For further information about the Italian Mass on the Gold Coast, please contact Fr Luis Antonio Diaz Lamus (Scalabrinian Missionary) at ladl71@hotmail.com  or Giovanna at 07 55395528 or gianna52@hotmail.com.


Maronite Mass: Fr Fadi Salame 0421 790 996. The 6.30 pm Maronite Saturday Vigil is at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.

 

“TAP `N” GO CASHLESS DONATIONS -

AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCES OF THREE CHURCHES - tap once to donate $10, tap again (when it has reset) for another $10, and so on. 


IN OUR PRAYERS 

(Please contact us so we can keep these names up-to-date, and let us know when to remove the name from the list).

FOR THOSE WHO ARE SICK:  Please also pray for the following who are ill. (Alphabetical) 

Milroy Antony, Tricia Baumann, Pamela Caralis, Nadia Che, Tina Conidi, Ellanie Conzalez, Alfonso Covino, Shirley Croft, Lorraine Gallagher, Barbara Gilbert, Maurice Goss, Kevin Junee, Kath Kiely, Jan Kristenson, Nathan Lepp, Michael Tiger McCormick, Bill McGuigan, Joanne Mooney, Maryann Moore, Denis Mullins, Margaret Orme, Letty O’Sullivan, Carmela Parente, Rachel Raines, Bob Rogers, Brenda Stewart, Betty Taylor, Denise Tracey, Christine Watkins, Billy Webb. 


RECENTLY DECEASED:  (Chronological - Most recent first):

Vince Shanahan, Grant Talbot Davenport, Nino Mianto, June Mye, Sally Gage, Maura Bagtas,  Celia Carvell (WA), Juliaa Eloreo,  Lisbeth Pereira, Patricia Richardson, Amparo Pieters, Diane Land, Des Walsh, Lois Wood, Joanna Martha Edwards. (Known as Joan), Rosemarie Cocks, Bill McDermott, Santiago Canada, Marina Innocenti, Adoracion Santos Lapitan, Joseph Torbey, Jacqueline Rillo, Helena Nycz, Frank Cassidy, John William Worner (WA).


ANNIVERSARY OF DEATH: (Alphabetical) 

Linda Marilyn Arlington, Mons Michael Baldwin, Dragica Bosiljevac, Fr A. Joseph Butler, Polly Cummins, Mary Josephine Dillon, Ines Vittoria Fauretto, Albert Garske, Fr John Gleeson, Maureen Glenn, Jabour Haddad, Norma Ruth Hanley, Barry Thomas Haug, Fr James Henry, Joseph Anthony (Joe) Hilton, Fr Alfred Hogan, Gannon, John, Joseph Kania, Mons Edmund Keating, Fr John Kitts, Lynette Lesley Larking, Fr William Livingston, Antoninette (Toni) Moon, Charles Henry Nolan, Ralph Smith Pownall, John Gerard (jnr) Robinson, Brian Aubrey Swaddling, Fr Joseph Troy, Francis Weston, Ted Woodhead, Edward (Ted) Woodhead.

And Also: (Alphabetical):

Raymond Victor Assaisso, Dragica Bosiljevac, Fr A. Joseph Butler, Sr Christine Chia, Robert Samuel Conn, John Cooper, Polly Cummins, Mary Josephine Dillon, Ronald Donovan, Rainer Empen, Reuben Empen, Fr Michael Fallon, James William Fuller, John Gannon, Albert Garske, Fr John Gleeson, Dorothy May Joan Gray, Jabour Haddad, Kel Hamilton, Norma Ruth Hanley, Barry Thomas Haug, Anne Mary Hawes, Fr James Henry, Joseph Anthony (Joe) Hilton, Helena Barbara Hodges, Fr Alfred Hogan,  Mons Edmund Keating, Lynette Lesley Larking, Cheryol Claudette Lewis, Teck Lim, Anthony Teck Lee Lim, Amelia Catherine Limbert, Fr William Livingston, Pearl Agnus MacCartney, Roza Masa, Anthony James (Tony) McCudden, Mons Timothy Molony, Antoninette (Toni) Moon, Benjamin Joseph Moore, Elma Luigia Moro, Leroy Bevan Muir, Charles Henry Nolan, Emilio Parolin, Ljuban Pilic,Gus and Mary Reeves, Paul Patrick Reeves, Arthur John Springthorpe, Brian Aubrey Swaddling, James Mark Tamai, Luke Dermot Tansey, Hedy Triffett, Fr Joseph Troy, Ellen Walker, Francis Weston, John Wood, Ted Woodhead, Edward (Ted) Woodhead, Rita Woodhouse, Cornel Zarie, Grazyna Zyner.

 

HOSPITAL CALLS - AROUND THE DEANERY - 

HELP THE PRIESTS OF THE DEANERY RESPOND TO URGENT CALLS EFFECTIVELY BY CALLING THE FOLLOWING PARISHES' FIRST RESPONDERS TO NEEDS WITHIN THE HOSPITALS LISTED.

To efficiently and speedily deal with the pastoral needs around the Catholic parishes of the Gold Coast, the parishes within this Deanery have the practice of having the first call for emergencies go to the priests of the parish where the hospital is located.  Here is a helpful guide to the hospitals and their attendant priests. A nursing home call also follows this procedure, where the first priest to call is a priest from the parish within which the Nursing Home is located.  Please help us service the region effectively and help prevent delays in response by calling the nearest parish. 

  • Robina Hospital - Burleigh Heads Parish. 5576 6466

  • Pindara Hospital - Surfers Paradise Parish. 56717388

  • John Flynn Hospital - Coolangatta-Tugun Parish. 5598 2165

  • University & Gold Coast Private Hosp.- Southport Parish. 5510 2222


NOTICES AND MESSAGES  - Our new parish number is 5671 7388 


RELIGIOUS GOODS SHOPS - SACRED HEART AND ST VINCENT’S CHURCHES

An excellent variety of religious goods is available for everyone; visit your local shop today at either Sacred Heart or St Vincent’s Churches, which are open before and after Mass. Watch out for new stock arriving in July.


SACRED HEART ROSARY PRAYER GROUP

Please join us to pray the Divine Mercy and Rosary each day at 8:15 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church before 9 a.m. Mass, Monday through Friday, including First Saturdays. 


ANOINTING MASS - MASS OF HEALING FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (February-November Inclusive)

2/7/24 at 10 am Sacred Heart Catholic Church.   Followed by morning tea. Please let others know who would love to come along.


FIRST FRIDAY ADORATION

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament this First Friday, 5/7/24, at Sacred Heart Church from 7 pm to 8.30 pm.  All welcome. Enquiries: Helen 0421935678.  "Could you not watch one hour with Me" Mt 26:4


FIRST SATURDAY MASS AND BENEDICTION

First Saturday Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Clear Island Waters.  9 am (tomorrow) Saturday - 6/7/24 Followed by adoration and Benediction.  {This is a votive Mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary}.


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 ideas

A very relaxing and social environment - meet new friends! You are most welcome to join.

For further information, phone John 0412 759 205 or the Parish Office.


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 or Mob at 0417 772 701.


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, call Ruth on 0421338110. 


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 on 0412 519 404.

Our Lady’s Statue details for the next several weeks are

26/06/2024     Suzanne Joseph & Family -  Robina        

01/07/2024     Suzanne Joseph & Family  - Robina


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 further information on 0438 333 308.


BIBLE STUDY/PRAYER GROUP - ST VINCENT’S CHURCH, SURFERS PARADISE. 

The Bible Study Prayer Group meets every Thursday from 5-6 pm 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, contact Ashley at 0409840693.  


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. Please phone Pam Egtberts at 0493742670.


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 ring Grace: 0410 006 484.


JOBS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/careers/ 


The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children.  Our commitment to these standards requires conducting working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people (0 - 18 years) or vulnerable adults. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for abusing children or vulnerable adults.




YEAR OF PRAYER - RESOURCE

‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour’ (Luke 1:46,47)

Mary’s lips sing a hymn of ancient and ever-new praise! This explosion of joy swells up from the depths of her soul as she contemplates the saving works of God. Yes, God has done mighty things in the past, demonstrating His holiness and power. However, what He is doing right now primarily inspires her joyful hymn. In the secret of her womb, the world's Saviour is hidden. All generations will indeed call you blessed, dear mother, for in you and through you, the greatest of all God’s mighty deeds is unfolding.


As Christians, we, too, are called to share in Mary’s hymn of praise and rejoicing. It’s true that we cannot always live in a state of ecstatic joy. Mary likewise experiences both joys and sorrows. Corresponding to the ‘Magnificat’ is the ‘Stabat Mater’. Her soul is to be pierced by unimaginable grief as the Lord of life is put to death on the Cross. Nevertheless, Mary is a hope-filled and joyful figure. She believes that God will fulfil all that He has promised.


As we walk life's journey, we will encounter our share of sorrows. Like Mary, however, we are called to be a people of praise and joy. The hymn of Mary can be a template for our own praise and joy. My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, for the same God who inspired Mary’s hymn is present with me. He favours me, both in my joys and sorrows, and He has done great things for me. Holy is His Name!


By Fr Michael Grace



  https://evangelisationbrisbane.org.au/year-of-prayer/ 


A VOCATION VIEW: 

Why are you terrified? Why are you lacking in faith?” If   God is calling you, don’t let fear stop you. (Mark 4:35-41). Jesus says, “Quiet now! Be Calm! To the strong winds in today’s Gospel. How often do we allow Jesus to calm the distractions in our lives that make it difficult for us to trust in Him, who calls even the wind to be quiet? 

 To talk to someone about your vocation,  contact  Vocation Brisbane:  1300 133 544.  vocation@bne.catholic.net.au  and www.vocationbrisbane.com     

STEWARDSHIP - 

“He asked them, ‘Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith? ’” – Mark 4:40

Do you trust God? Is God your first choice or last resort? Is your faith something you just do on Sunday, or do you live the Gospel message every day of the week? Many of us know about God. How many of us have a personal relationship with Him? Start now, open your heart to receive our Lord. Talk and listen to Him every day. Move your discipleship from head knowledge to heart knowledge. 

The vision of Stewardship applies to every aspect of life, inviting everyone to be thankful, generous, and accountable for what they have been given.


TAKE FIVE FOR FAITH  - 

 WORD OF THE WEEK

Servant Songs -

Viewed as predictors of the vocation of Jesus, poems or oracles from the prophecies of Isaiah (42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-11; 52:13–53:12). The songs refer to the faithful servant of God who is entrusted with a mission to his community and the nation and the suffering servant: rejected, beaten, and facing death because of his challenging message.


CONTEXT

  • Through the Servant’s ministry, the “bruised reed” will be strengthened, and the “dimly burning wick” will be inflamed. —Graziano Marcheschi, M.A. D.Min.

  • The fourth song is the famous "Suffering Servant" of Isaiah. It is a remarkable passage because it suggests . . . that God accepts one individual's suffering to atone for the sins of others. —Lawrence Boadt, C.S.P., Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction


WHY IT MATTERS

Jesus has favourite scripture passages that he uses in his teaching. Deuteronomy and the Books of Prophecy score highest in frequency. But as Jesus "grows in wisdom, age, and grace," it's conceivable that he understands his earthly mission through the Servant Songs of Isaiah that sing of the Messiah who comes not to rule but to suffer for the world's sin.


From the Catechism of the Catholic Church (713): The Messiah's characteristics are revealed above all in the Servant Songs. These songs proclaim the meaning of Jesus' Passion and show how he will pour out the Holy Spirit to the many. Taking our death upon himself, he can communicate to us his own Spirit of life.


RELATED WORDS

Oracle | Suffering Servant | Messiah


QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Is Jesus the Messiah?

The word Messiah has a complex history. Between Messiah and Christ—meaning "anointed"—lies a thousand years of evolving expectations. Messiahs aren’t the only biblical saviours. Moses, the judges, Nehemiah, Ezra, and even Queen Esther are considered saving figures. Israel needs frequent rescue, so the Bible contains many rescuers. Add to this gallery the biblical kings. Messianism reaches its height with Judah’s second king, David. David’s lineage is endowed with an everlasting anointing. Davidic kings don’t “save the world”; they are supposed to keep Judah safe. The problem is, they don’t.


The prophet Isaiah reboots messianic hope when he predicts a Messiah loyal to God, who establishes justice and peace. All nations have a stake in his Messiah. Yet, Isaiah's Servant Songs add a sober note: This Messiah will come in humility and go the way of suffering. Other prophets embrace this vision. So does Jesus!

—Alice Camille, from Questions Catholics 


REFLECTION OF THE WEEK

SOLEMNITY OF THE NATIVITY OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST (JUNE 24)

Respond to your deepest calling

The name John means “God’s gift,” and such was the Baptist. From the moment he came on the preaching scene, he proved himself a powerful, captivating herald of God. His bold, dramatic, austere, and uncompromising style is what many people had in mind when they hoped for a Messiah. But John understood that his role was to prepare the way for the One who was to come, the light of our salvation.


FAITH IN ACTION

John’s prophetic witness and commitment to his call are his legacy to us. Share in his gift by being true to your own Christian calling.





PARISH FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Your support is needed to help our Parish continue valuable pastoral activities and to provide ongoing sustainability. To assist you in supporting the Parish, you can give here.     

If you can continue to support us, we would be most grateful. We thank all those who have been making payments via credit card and those who have donated directly to the parish account. The pay-wave or tap-and-go machines on the timber stands in our Churches are also a safe and handy way to donate to the Parish. God bless you for your support. If you want confirmation of your donation or a receipt emailed, please contact me at man.surfers@bne.catholic.net.au.  

To join planned giving, please contact the Parish Office: (07) 56717388 (9 am–2 pm Mon-Fri).

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES AVAILABLE 

FOR COLLECTION IN THE CHURCHES NOW


WHAT  TO DO IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID-19  

(as at 13th May 2024)

Anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 can pass the virus to others.

While isolation is no longer a legal requirement, staying at home protects the people in your community if you test positive for COVID-19.

If you test positive, you should not visit high-risk settings like hospitals and aged and disability care settings:

  • for at least 7 days or until symptoms have gone

  • unless seeking immediate medical care.


To help protect those around you, we recommend:

If you have any appointments you cannot miss (e.g., a doctor's visit, family violence service, or police), let them know in advance that you have COVID-19.

If you feel unwell or need COVID-19 advice for someone in your care, call the Health Direct helpline at 1800 022 222 to speak with your health provider or a nurse.

If you develop symptoms such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain, call triple zero (000) immediately. Tell the call handler and the paramedics on arrival if you have COVID-19.

Manage your symptoms:

Most people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all (asymptomatic).

You can manage these symptoms with over-the-counter medication






HOMILY: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B. 

 Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 1696437403 - HRASNO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA - MAY 01, 2019: Jesus Calms a Storm on the Sea, Shrine of the Our Lady Queen of Peace in Hrasno, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Important information - Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor- Zvonimir Atletic


*Prologue- (Fr Paul Kelly)

"Jesus was asleep in the boat; how few souls there are that let him have his sleep out! He can't always be doing all the work, responding to all the calls made upon him; so for my own part I am content to leave him undisturbed. I dare say he won't make his presence felt till I start out on the great retreat of eternity; I don't complain of that, I want it to happen… our Lord doesn't supply me with provisions for my journey – he just gives me food unexpectedly when and as I need it." [St Thérèse Lisieux (1873-1897)]

+++++++++++++ 

I have never had much luck with boats.

 

One time, while on Lake Cootharaba (a lake on the Noosa River) in a tin boat, we were coming close to the pier, and the boat's pilot yelled out to me, "Quickly, jump out, and moor the boat!"

 

I had always been taught that the captain must be obeyed, so I immediately leapt out of the boat. Sadly, the captain had meant, 'When the boat gets close enough to the pier, please jump out and help moor it.' The boat was not close enough to the pier when I automatically leapt out and promptly disappeared into the lake, but not before hitting my chin on the pier as I fell into the water. The whole thing could have been disastrous (even fatal), so I was very much relieved to discover that my head must be made of concrete because I leapt back up out of the water, which was thankfully only three feet deep at the pier, and emerged sheepishly, and not too badly injured - even if a little sore and sorry.

 

Later, I was lying in the back of the boat, half-dazed and injured, as they took me back to the other side of the lake, and I thought about how Jesus had lain in the back of a boat as it crossed another river. I was in such a dazed state, I began musing on ponderous topics…..  such as this…."I reckon Jesus would have been calm even if the storm had not quietened and even if the boat had sunk." This is because Jesus was totally and utterly at one with his Heavenly Father and had surrendered his will and trust in his Father's will. So, come what may in his life and ministry, he was content to be calm and rest in God's will."

 

For my part, I vowed to be very hesitant to leap into or out of a boat anytime soon!

Not many of us would be fast asleep in a small boat as it is tossed around like a cork on a stormy sea! Jesus must have been extremely exhausted, needing rest, and also fearless. We may think the disciples should have had strong faith after the miracles they had witnessed. When we are going through difficult times, we, too, can quickly forget that Jesus is always there with us.

 

Jesus calms even what seems like the most unconquerable disturbances, just like the storm at sea. 

 

How many times have we experienced storms in our lives and thought that the Lord was asleep, that God was not concerned, that God was simply ignoring us? The Gospel today tells us that God is always aware of what is happening in our lives, even when He seems asleep, unconcerned and uncaring. The Gospel invites us to a deep level of trust in our God. God loves us and cares for us always and will not let us perish. We don't always understand the ways of God—and that should never surprise us. God sees all and knows all, and our vision and knowledge is so restricted!

 

The first reading today, from the Book of Job, is part of our learning about the divine also. Job finally realises that God is God—and Job understands so little of all reality. We also must learn that lesson. We can easily think that we know what is best in any situation. So, we don't pray or ask God to give us wisdom and understanding. We also need to repent, as Job does at the end of the Book of Job. We stand in the Almighty's presence and think we have more wisdom and knowledge than the Almighty! Again, we can reflect on our personal image of God and of the power of God."

 

What "storms" assail my faith? How do I look to Jesus to quiet my fears?  The disciples wonder, "Who then is this whom even wind and the sea obey?"; How can I go beyond the "signs" of faith and grasp who Jesus is daily?

 

Life is a challenge. Couples sometimes struggle with their relationships. Parents have to deal with their children growing up in a world that is sometimes hostile to the values we hold sacred. Kids sometimes live with parents who don't necessarily understand the distant horizons that call for a new generation. Every life has its storms that come up and threaten to sink our boats. Doesn't God care that we feel tossed about and lost? Can we believe Jesus is snoozing on a cushion with us in our boat? We are confident and trusting that he will awaken to our calls and calm the storms that frighten us so?

 

"Why, therefore, be disturbed? Your heart is agitated by the world's tribulations, as the boat in which Jesus Christ was asleep... This boat in which Jesus Christ is sleeping is your heart in which faith is slumbering. What news do you hear, O Christian, what news do you hear?" —AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO (354-430)

 

"When he established the heavens, I was there, when he drew a circle on the face of the deep, when he made firm the skies above, when he established the fountains of the deep when he assigned to the sea its limit so that the waters might not transgress his command when he marked out the foundations of the earth, then I was beside him." —PROVERBS 8:27-30

++++++++

References:


Homily –  Fr Paul W. Kelly


Image Credit: Shutterstock licensed image ID: 235857250. PRCANJ, MONTENEGRO - JUNE 08: Jesus Calms a Storm on the Sea, the Catholic Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary, on June 08, 2012, in Prcanj, Montenegro. By Zvonimir Atletic

++++

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    


INSPIRATION FROM THE SAINTS: 

  • Birth of St John the Baptist 

    • Give birth to possibilities

    • Today is the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, one of the earliest feast days established in the church. John the Baptist is the only person outside of Jesus and Mary whose birth is honoured with a feast day, indicating his importance. His unlikely birth to the aged Elizabeth has long been a popular subject for artists. It has miraculous parallels to the birth of Isaac (born to the aged Sarah and Abraham) and Christ himself (born to a virgin). Let John’s birth remind you that God continuously brings forth life out of seemingly impossible situations.

  • MEMORIAL OF CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

    • Everyone needs a mother’s love

    • Saint Cyril of Alexandria died on this day in 444. He is remembered for many things—admittedly not all of them good—as the archbishop of his city, which was at the height of its influence over the Mediterranean world during his time. One of his most enduring legacies was his hard-fought teaching on Mary as the “Mother of God,” which created the basis for all other theology about Mary. Saints aren’t perfect, and neither was Cyril—the man who helped connect us to a tender, loving mother in Mary, he also committed acts of violence and injustice. Perhaps his deep flaws illustrate how much we all—even saints who champion Mary—need her constant intercession.

  • MEMORIAL OF IRENAEUS, BISHOP, MARTYR

    • For Irenaeus, the Incarnation says as much about the redeemed as it does our Redeemer. Yes, Christian doctrine teaches that Jesus Christ is fully human and divine. And, yes, Irenaeus battled the heresy known as Gnosticism—which emphasised the divine nature of Jesus at the expense of his humanity. But for Irenaeus, the Incarnation also meant that the “glory of God is a human being fully alive.” He believed that God became human so that humans might become divine. How will you choose to be “fully alive” today to glorify God?

  • SOLEMNITY OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES

    • You might think that the two foundational giants of the Christian tradition who share a feast day would have been best buddies. Still, Peter and Paul had their differences, especially around the question of whether people who weren’t Jews needed to observe Jewish Law to become followers of Jesus. It is not entirely clear whether they fully reconciled their differences before they were both martyred in Rome (on the same day, tradition says), though it is clear that Paul’s position carried the day over time. Perhaps there’s a message for today’s divided church—we can disagree with one another, even on matters of great importance, and still rest together in the same great tradition.

 

 




THE POPE 


 

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Photo Description - Stock Photo ID: 2443325711- Rome, Italy 29.03.2024: Pope Francis celebrates the ceremony of the Celebration of the Passion of God at the Altare della Confessione, St. Peter's Basilica for Easter Holy Week 2024 - Important information: Editorial Use Only. Photo Contributor: Marco Iacobucci Epp


Pope Francis’ preface to Father James Martin’s book on Lazarus


Father James Martin, the author of many other books that I know and appreciate, deserves our gratitude for this new text devoted to what he calls “Jesus’s greatest miracle”: the resurrection of Lazarus. Many reasons to thank him are closely tied to how Come Forth unfolds. It’s always fascinating and never predictable.


First and foremost, Father James makes the biblical text come alive. He analyses it with the eyes and erudition of a diverse set of writers who have probed this passage deeply, capturing their many facets, emphases, and interpretations. But his reading is always “loving,” never detached, nor coldly scientific. Father James has the perspective of someone who has fallen in love with the Word of God. Reading the careful arguments and exegeses of the biblical scholars he cites made me wonder how often we approach Scripture with the “hunger” of a person who knows that that word really is the Word of God.


The fact that God “speaks” should give us a little jolt each and every day. The Bible truly is the nourishment we need to handle our lives. It’s the “love letter” that God has sent—since long ago—to men and women living in every time and place. Treasuring the Word, loving the Bible, carrying it with us every day, with a little book of the Gospel in our pockets, maybe even pulling it up on our smartphones when we have an important meeting or a difficult encounter or a moment of unease…actions like these will help us grasp the extent to which Scripture is a living body, an open book, a vibrant witness to a God that is not dead and buried on the dusty shelves of history. Instead, Scripture journeys with us always, even today—and it walks with you, too, who are now opening this book, perhaps intrigued by this well-known story whose deep, full meaning has nevertheless not been understood by everyone.


What’s more, these pages contain one of the truths of Christianity that always stays current and that remains fruitful. The Gospel is concrete and eternal; it has just as much to do with our inner being and our interior life as it does with history and daily life. Jesus didn’t just talk about eternal life—he gave it to us. He didn’t just say “I am the resurrection”; he also resurrected Lazarus, who’d been dead for three days.


Christian faith is the ever-present co-mingling of the eternal and the contingent, of heaven and earth, of the divine and the human—never one without the other. If our faith were just “earthly,” what would distinguish it from any well-intentioned philosophy, well-structured ideology or well-developed mode of thought? That remains simply that—a theory detached from the times and history? If Christianity were just concerned with the “after” or with eternity alone, this would be a betrayal of the choice that God carried out once and for all, casting His lot with all of humanity. The Lord did not “pretend” to incarnate. He chose to enter human history so that the history of men and women might take the form of the Kingdom of God, the time and place where peace sprouts, hope becomes substantial, and love brings life.


All of us, then, are Lazarus. Rooting himself firmly in the Ignatian tradition, Father Martin brings us directly into the story of this friend of Jesus. We’re His friends, too—“dead” as we sometimes are on account of our sins, our failings and infidelities, the despondency that discourages us and crushes our spirits. Jesus is hardly afraid to get close to us—even when we “reek” like a dead body that’s been buried for three days.


No, Jesus isn’t afraid of our death or our sin. He waits just outside the closed door of our hearts, that door that only opens from within, that we lock with a double bolt whenever we think God could never forgive us. But as we read James Martin’s detailed analysis, we can practically feel the profound meaning of what Jesus does when He finds Himself before a dead man who is really dead, whose body gives off a nasty odour—a metaphor for the moral rot that sin produces in our souls. Jesus isn’t scared of coming close to sinners—to any sinner, even the most brazen and undaunted. He has one single preoccupation: that no one goes missing, that none are deprived of the possibility of feeling His Father's loving embrace.


It’s interesting that even a well-known contemporary novelist like Cormac McCarthy, who died in 2023, lingered over the question of what the “work of God” might be. One of the characters in Cities of the Plain (1998) says: “He believed in God even if he was doubtful of men’s claims to know God’s mind. But that a God unable to forgive was no God at all.” That’s exactly right: God’s “job” is to forgive.


Reading Father James Martin’s book also made me remember a line by Alberto Maggi, an Italian Bible scholar. He wrote about the raising of Lazarus like this: “What Jesus teaches us with this miracle is not so much that the dead rise, but that the living do not die!” What a wonderful insight, and what a paradox! Of course, the dead rise, but how true it is to recall that we, the living, never die! Yes, death does come, not just for us, but for our families and those dear to us—for everyone, really.


We see so much death all around, unjust and painful death, death caused by war, by violence, by Cain’s abuse of power toward Abel. But we men and women are destined for eternity. All of us are. Each of us is a “half-line” or “ray,” to borrow a concept from geometry: We each have a starting point—our birth on this planet—but our lives all point toward the infinite. Yes, that’s right, toward infinity! What Scripture calls “eternal life” is the life that awaits us after death. It’s the life we can already touch right here and right now, as long as we dwell not in the egoism that saddens us but in the love that widens, that dilates our hearts. We are made for eternity.


The resurrection of Lazarus—whom we know is our friend, thanks to this book by James Martin—reminds us of that fact and bears witness to it.


– Francis, Vatican City, March 11, 2024


© Dicastero per la Comunicazione – Libreria Editrice Vaticana


This is the preface to Lazzaro, vieni fuori, by James Martin, S.J., published by Libreria Editrice Vaticana, the Italian-language translation of Come Forth (HarperOne). 

 https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2024/06/03/pope-francis-preface-james-martin-lazarus-come-forth-247926 


LINKS & RESOURCES

Liturgy for you at Home (produced by SPP): https:- soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

Weekly Homily (produced by SPP): https:- homilycatholic.blogspot.com

Surfers Paradise Parish Facebook: https:- www.facebook.com/surferscatholic/

Breaking Parish News (SPP Blog):  https:- news-parish.blogspot.com/

EthicsFinder is a free, global, digital resource of immense value to interested parishioners. Try ACU’s free digital tool, www.ethicsfinder.com


Readings for next weekend- Sunday, 30 June 2024 (Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.)

FIRST READING- Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24

Ps 30:2+4, 5-6, 11-12a+13b “I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.”

SECOND READING- 2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. 2 Tim 1:10) “Alleluia, alleluia! Our Saviour Jesus Christ has done away with death. And brought us life through his gospel.”

GOSPEL- Mark 5:21-43


Commitment To Child Safety and Vulnerable-Adult Safety 

(please see next page…) 



St Kevin’s Catholic School, Community business directory: https://www.sk.qld.edu.au/Pages/Rainbow-Connection.aspx 


“The Church loves all her children like a loving mother but cares for all and protects those who are smallest and defenceless with special affection. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community.” 

(Apostolic Letter issued ‘motu proprio’ by the Supreme Pontiff Francis, 4 June 2016) 

 

Purpose 

To promote a culture of safeguarding within the Archdiocese and reduce the risks of abuse and harm. 


Scope 

This policy applies to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Brisbane and to Associations of Christ’s Faithful or Public Juridic Persons that freely opt into its application and which enter into an agreement with the Archdiocese accordingly. The policy applies to all Archdiocesan workers (clergy, religious workers, employees and volunteers). 

 

Policy 

National Catholic Safeguarding Standards 

The Archdiocese adopts and adheres to the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards. The Standards apply to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop. 

 

Safeguarding Commitment 

The Archdiocese has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and is committed to safeguarding everyone involved in its activities, ministries, and services. The safety and well-being of children and adults at risk are paramount. 


Safeguarding Principles 

  • Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. 

  • Treat everyone with dignity and respect. 

  • Prioritise the protection and best interests of children and adults at risk. 

  • Provide safe physical and online environments. 

  • Actively identify and manage safeguarding and abuse risks. 

  • Monitor compliance with safeguarding standards, policies, and procedures. 

  • Respond promptly and effectively to abuse concerns, suspicions, disclosures, complaints, reports, and incidents. 

  • Comply with all legal obligations to report suspected abuse and harm.  


Compliance 

Non-compliance with this policy which seriously jeopardises the safety and well-being of others, may be grounds for disciplinary action up to dismissal or termination of employment and reporting to authorities. 

 

Document No.: AD16 ST01       Document Owner: Office for Safeguarding Services            Version: November 2020              Review Date: November 2023

 

https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/safeguarding/  - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility -    

See also this video on safeguarding -   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgkAZFkJkJg 


Acknowledgement of Country - This is Kombumerri Country - The Traditional Custodians 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/


** The significance of the ancient Catholic Blessing Symbol. “20 C+M+B 24”

An ancient medieval practice that developed in the Catholic Church was to bless one’s home with blessed chalk at the yearly epiphany.  On the door or the lintel will be this symbol:

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 of this century, ‘24, to the protection of the Lord. May the Lord bless this abode. 

The letters C+M+B represent Caspar, Bathasar and Melchior; the three Wise Men.  CMB is also the initials of the Latin phrase “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” - “May Christ Bless this dwelling place.” 


++