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Jer 20, 7-9; Rom 12, 1-2; Mt 16, 21-27
Fool for the sake of Christ. Dear sisters and brothers, I am going through roller coaster life, life of turmoil and chaos. It makes hard to write a few words of encouragement and enhance faith to encounter Christ in your life in your own situation. Let me try to make some sense from the Scripture we hear today. Prophet Jeremiah goes through very tough time as he feels himself trapped in the message of God and the people with whom he lives. St Paul writing to the Romans strongly advises them to “truly pleasing to God”, and recommends that that “is the only way to discover the will of God and know what is good, what it is that God wants, what is the perfect thing to do.” By remonstrating Peter, Jesus chides us too to relinquish worldly thoughts and “turn-around” gain life. Due to prevailing present situation in the world with Covid-19, other natural calamities, we are forced to adjust our daily lives, the life of care and love for one another. It is making us sacrifice, in the language of St Paul, “that Christian behaviour must be totally different from the values of the world, for the Christian is a new creation with a new set of values.” In Chapter 8 on the Spirit Paul repeatedly stresses that not only Christians but the whole of creation is straining to be set free from slavery to corruption; the presence of the Spirit of Christ makes all things new; it is a totally new world. Now we are encouraged to be new creation by renewing our minds and hearts from within. It is no longer of the external compulsion of the Law, but of inner compulsion, for the Christian has become a living sacrifice, dedicated to God with minds transformed, discerning personally the will of God and acting upon this discernment. This is Christian personally responsibility: we must ‘discern for ourselves what the will of God is’. Jeremiah had to make a choice of proclaiming God’s message to the citizens of Jerusalem that their city was to be besieged and destroyed, and that they themselves were to be dragged into exile.” He himself wanted to evade but “God overpowers or seduces the prophet and compels him to proclaim the message.” Both messages are tough but at the same time when submitted to the will of God becomes “a willing and joyful compulsion. Humanly speaking, we can say that prophet Jeremiah had a love-hate relationship to the LORD. We know the prophets have suffered the same dilemma like Peter and Paul in today’s’ readings. We are thrown into chaos as best we can say. Jesus’ disciples simply failed to understand him. Jesus puts it bluntly saying, ‘that you cannot be a Christian without following Jesus without carrying a Cross. We too have love-hate relationship with God. We people suffering the whole time, physical disabilities, breakdown of relationships, heartless treatment from others, financial worries – and then we grouse at a twinge of pain or a hurtful word. Carry the Cross behind Jesus? Yes, of course I will, but if you don’t mind, I’ll just take that section which is well padded and fits my shoulder nicely. No point in unnecessary splinters in my neck. Dear brothers and sisters, we can say in the words of St Teresa of Avila when she fell from her horse into the cold river, her comment was, ‘Lord, if that is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so few of them.’ Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially Barney Scully, Hazel Kingston, Nesi Tan, Warren Stevenson, John Cairns-Cowan and Graeme Adams and those recovering at home including Eddie Wilkins. And we pray for the wonderful people who are caring for the everyday needs of the sick in our Community. We also pray for the members of our Parish families who have died recently especially Patrick Connolly and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Barbara Ah Mu. All Masses are suspended till we are back in alert level 1; Faithful are dispensed from Obligation of Mass as long as the restrictions remain. All churches are now closed except Holy Cross Church which will be open for personal prayer between 9am - 2pm each day. Following rules apply
We want to ensure we keep everyone safe Fr Ephrem is offering Mass every day from the prayer room in the presbytery at the following times till we are back at level 1
Memorial Mass for John Rogers – 12 September 2pm St Patrick’s Church Kilbirnie A memorial Mass will be celebrated for John who died on the 22nd March. Please note: This will only go ahead at level 1. If we are at level 2, this will be postponed to a later date. Parish Council Meeting – 2nd September 7pm, Gascoigne Room St Anthony’s Finance Committee Meeting – 8th September 7.30pm – venue TBC St Patrick’s church Liturgy Committee are looking for someone to run the Sacramental Programme for the children in 2021. In this programme the children are prepared for Reconciliation, Confirmation and Holy Communion. Each Sacrament has 3 lessons each which are held in the Parish Centre before or after Sunday Mass. Resources are provided and help and support provided. Are you interested in taking part? Please contact the Chairperson of the Committee Patricia O’Donnell 04 934 3179. Thank you. St Vincent de Paul Eastern Suburbs Conference appreciates the assistance of food and donations given over the last few months by many parishioners of our Holy Trinity Parish. Our members have delivered food parcels to several families experiencing hardship during COVID, children's clothing and knitted items, and household items. Donations have been put towards supply of school uniform, shoes, jackets and activities for many local school students. Visits and phoning to elderly and isolated parishioners continue to show the parish cares for them. If you wish to help with these acts of charity, please consider a direct online donation to our local Conference account which is: BNZ Kilbirnie, St Vincent de Paul Society, A/c No. 02 0576 0017 817 06 , reference “ Donation ”. If you want a receipt of the donation for tax purposes, do please contact our Treasurer , Maria Pene, ph 022 428 0247, mpene20@gmail.com St Catherine’s College Enrolments Enrolments are now open at St Catherine's College. If you would like to make an interview with our Principal, Steve Bryan or come and look around please phone us on 04 9398988 or email us on office@scc.school.nz. We still have preference and non-preference spaces available. We also have limited scholarships for families needing extra financial assistance, to pay $1000 towards your attendance Dues fees to the Archdiocese. St Catherine's College aims to nurture and empower our young women to be active and creative learners. St. Mary's College has a small number of places available for Preference students in Year 9, 12 and 13 for 2021. Please see our website for further information https://www.stmw.school.nz/SMC-Parents/Enrolments-Fees/Enrolments-Fees or phone the school office 473 5554. Some possible options as we can’t attend Mass on Sundays: This link takes you through to four different types of online retreats including a “3-Minute Retreat” and an Audio retreat as well as daily scripture with Sacred Space and Pray as You Go. https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/prayer-online/ Auckland Liturgy Office https://www.aucklandcatholic.org.nz/liturgy/ “Celebration of the Word at home” with links to daily readings and music Reflections from John O’Connor, ‘Food for Faith’ have just started again. https://foodforfaith.org.nz UPDATE: Archdiocese of Wellington Election Forum on environmental and climate change issues This event is going ahead as a livestreamed event on 1 September from 6-8pm. Please note we are no longer holding a public meeting. We invite you to join us from home in viewing live as young people of the Archdiocese question political party representatives about their environmental and climate change policies at https://youtu.be/Dpog-Gva3_M. The discussion will be chaired by Dr Areti Metuamate of Te Kupenga – Catholic Leadership Institute and there will be an opening address by Cardinal John Dew. The video will also be available for viewing following the event. For more information, please contact Lisa Beech – Ecology, Justice and Peace Advisor, l.beech@wn.catholic.org.nz 0212884388 MARY, THE MOTHER OF GOD – A CONTEMPORARY UNDERSTANDING… with Br Kieran Fenn. This online series (Zoom) started on Mon, 24 August at 7pm, but it is not too late to join. It runs for 6 consecutive Mondays. The sessions are connected but also stand alone. Fee: $25/session or $120 for 6 sessions Special fees for groups of more than 2 persons. For more information and registration: info@studyjoy.nz Liturgical Guide for Season of Creation 2020, by Tui Motu InterIslands Magazine https://tuimotu.org/a/3ngdBdW Online Session (Evening): Mary, the Mother of God – A Contemporary Understanding of Mary with Br Kieran Fenn who has a wonderful way of bringing Scripture alive. Topic on Monday, 31 August, 7-8.30pm: Mary in Paul, Mark, and Matthew. Fee: $25/session. Special fees for groups of more than 2 persons. ZOOM. For more information and registration: info@studyjoy.nz See also: https://www.studyjoy.nz/events/virtual-teaching-mary-mother-of-god-i-with-kieran-fenn-fms-3/ Online Session (Retreat Day): Homecoming – A Journey of Transformation (Prodigal Son) with Eamon Butler. Saturday, 19 September, 10.30am-4pm. Fee: $60. For more information and registration: info@studyjoy.nz https://www.studyjoy.nz/events/retreat-day-with-eamon-butler-the-prodigal-son/ I want to sing to you – Fr Chris Skinner SM With an interlude from Kapiti Senior Singers. At our Lady of Kapiti Church on Sunday 20th September 2-4pm. Tickets $25 from Our Lady of Kapiti Parish Office 04 902-5815 or Mary Cook 027-298-3255 cookwellington@yahoo.com CDs for sale at the concert. THE END OF LIFE CHOICE ACT: ARE YOU READY TO VOTE. Join representatives of the Care Alliance as they unpack the details of the Act and outline their concerns. Wednesday 2nd Sept 7pm @ The Dowse, Lower Hutt. Sponsored by the Care Alliance Trust. To allow us to contact trace, please regiser for this talk by clicking https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/end-of-life-choiceact-public-meeting-tickets-117586513427. The organisers can also be contact through the above link. (authorised by Sinead Donnellly, Care Allince, 15 Guildford Tce, Wellington. The pandemic has highlighted how vulnerable and interconnected everyone is. If we do not take care of one another, starting with the least, with those who are most impacted, including creation, we cannot heal the world. Te Kupenga–Catholic Leadership Institute is seeking a Marketing and Business Development Advisor to build the profile of the organisation, which was formed on 1 January by the merger of Good Shepherd College and The Catholic Institute (TCI). The role is Auckland-based and fixed term full-time for two years. Full details: https://www.seek.co.nz/job/50415919 ‘ KIWI ATHLETIC CLUB (est 1926) opening and enrolment nights 1st two Wednesday in October 5pm, Newtown Stadium. For College age to Veteran adults . Ideal for winter coders, newcomers. Contact Peter Jack 3886224 from 7pm THE SEASON OF CREATION: “Jubilee for the Earth: New Rhythms, New Hope”. Since the beginning of our Covid journey in March, many of us have enjoyed a renewed awareness of our environment and appreciated how it can positively affect our wellbeing. Pope Francis (see his document Laudato Si’ ) has designated the time from the 1st September – the World Day of Prayer for Creation until 4th October - the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, as the Season of Creation, an time of prayer and action to protect Earth, our common home and ourselves. We are invited to take part by praying, taking action – at home, in the parish, in the community and beyond or even advocacy for some related issue. New Zealand, Social Justice Week takes place 6-12 September. The focus: Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which provides a moral framework to help guide our decisions and actions as Catholics. The theme for 2020: "Easy as CST: Unlocking the Church's Potential" - "Māmā Noa, Pēnei i te CST: Te Tuku i ngā Pūmanawa o te Hāhi kia Whai Hua." One of the principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST), is Kaitiakitanga or Stewardship - about caring for the gifts that God has given us, for the environment, our own talents and skills and other resources in our lives and society. Creation is given for all people. Understanding our interdependence with all living creatures, and as people of faith we should use God’s gifts responsibly to meet the needs of humankind, now and in the future. Prayer is a good way to start - at home or with a small group on Tuesday 1 Sept and on throughout the Season of Creation. Some of the following may be helpful. Common prayer for the fifth anniversary of Laudato Si’ Loving God, Creator of heaven and earth and all that is in them, You created us in your image and made us stewards of all your creation, of our common home. You blessed us with the sun, water and bountiful land so that all might be nourished. Open our minds and touch our hearts, so that we may attend to your gift of creation. Help us to be conscious that our common home belongs not only to us, but to all future generations, and that it is our responsibility to preserve it. May we help each person secure the food and resources that they need. Be present to those in need in these trying times, especially the poorest and those most at risk of being left behind. Transform our fear, anxiety and feelings of isolation into hope so that we may experience a true conversion of the heart. Help us to show creative solidarity in addressing the consequences of this global pandemic, Make us courageous to embrace the changes that are needed in search of the common good, Now more than ever may we feel that we are all interconnected, in our efforts to lift up the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. AMEN An ECOLOGICAL EXAMEN St Ignatius Loyola developed the idea of an Examen, a reflective prayer technique to help us become more aware of God’s presence in the events of the day and to help us make choices for our own way into our futures. Begin the Examen by putting yourself or your group in a place (or posture) that allows you to be open to the ways God’s Spirit is working in you. Spend as much time as you want on each reflection. You might like to share your reflections with others. All Creation reflects the beauty and blessing of God’s image. There are six steps in the Examen:
Conclude with a prayer for the earth and the vulnerable in our society. O God of the poor, help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this Earth, so precious in your eyes. Bring healing to our lives, that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. Touch the hearts of those who look only for gain at the expense of the poor and the Earth. Creative Spirit, enlighten our hearts, remain with your world and strengthen us to act for change and for good. We ask this in the name of the Lord. AMEN We pray that people everywhere become more caring towards the environment in which they live, and that politicians, planners & developers seriously consider environmental concerns when making decisions. We ask this prayer through Christ, your son. AMEN Grant us the wisdom, to care for the earth. Help us to act now for the good of future generations and all your creatures. Help us to become instruments of a new creation, founded on the covenant of your love. We ask this through Christ your Son. AMEN Gracious God, your amazing love extends through all time and space, to all parts of your creation, which you created and called good. You made a covenant with Noah and his family, putting a rainbow in the sky to symbolize your promise of love and blessing to every living creature, and to all successive generations. You made a covenant with Abraham and Sarah, blessing them and their descendants throughout the generations. You made a covenant with Moses and the Israelite people to all generations, giving them the 10 commandments and challenging them to choose life. In Jesus, you invite us to enter into a new covenant, in communion with all who seek to be faithful to you. As people of faith, we are called into covenant. Your covenant of faithfulness and love extends to the whole creation. We pray for the healing of the earth, that present and future generations may enjoy the fruits of creation, and continue to glorify and praise you. National Council of Churches “A Prayer for Our Earth” All powerful God, you are present in the whole universe and in the smallest of your creatures. You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. Pour out upon us the power of your love, that we may protect life and beauty. Fill us with peace, that we may live as brothers and sisters, harming no one. O God of the poor, help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this earth, so precious in your eyes. Bring healing to our lives, that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. Touch the hearts of those who look only for gain at the expense of the poor and the earth. Teach us to discover the worth of each thing, to be filled with awe and contemplation, to recognize that we are profoundly united with every creature as we journey towards your infinite light. We thank you for being with us each day. Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle for justice, love and peace. (Laudato Si’, n. 246) Here’s a link to an “ecological rosary”: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X53spMlbd7pasdkw-xIALTPoPKPKSk8p/view
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Is 22, 19-23; Rom 11, 33-36; Mat 16, 13-20
God’s love will win us eternal life because he is merciful. Dear sisters and brothers, our social life has been the way we are not used to, spinning very unorthodox way that we have ever known as best I can say. Spiritual exercises have been severely affected the way we did, but I guess people are resolved to make best use of this time to redevelop deeper relationship with God by delving deep into their reserve, finding kingdom of God buried deep in their hearts. I believe, God’s love will win us eternal life because he is merciful, mercy itself. Isaiah walks into the message of God and predicts that Eliakim will take the place of Shebna as master of the king’s palace in Jerusalem, and that God will invest him with authority. To open and close the doors of the palace was the privilege of the master of the place. To the Hebrew mind such a pair of opposites often signifies everything in-between, so that opening and closing the doors mean having control of everything that goes on. No one else may interfere. Similarly, by the total authority over the assembly or community of Jesus that is the Church. Equivalently, as Eliakim is given the key of the palace on his shoulder (or, as we would say, round the neck), so Peter is given the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Peter is sometimes pictured as the doorkeeper of heaven but ‘the kingdom of heaven’ is far wider: it means ‘God’s sovereignty’, which Jesus came to establish on earth, in which all obey, worship and give glory to God. Paul after his long and thorough exposition of the way in which the work of Christ won our salvation, and by his loving obedience wiped away the proud sin of Adam’s disobedience. Quoting one passage of scripture after another he finally concludes that in the end, in God’s good time a remnant of Israel will be saved. Throwing up his hands in incomprehension, he can only burst into this wonderful hymn of praise to God’s inscrutable Wisdom. We simply cannot understand God’s plans and methods. Look at Job who can only admit that God’s Wisdom surpasses anything human beings can conceive, and God’s might infinitely transcends any human power. So, Paul willingly grants that God must run his own world, and we cannot even attempt to challenge God’s reasoning, for everything begins and ends in God. It is here that Peter recognises that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ. At last he realizes that in Jesus they can see the action of God. the disciples followed Jesus as soon as he called, but for a long time they were puzzled what to make of him, of his wonderful teaching and his godlike personality. Now comes a shaft of light and understanding. We too often take some time to appreciate the true worth of someone we know well: a little gesture and sometimes reveal just how generous and thoughtful they are. Peter suddenly grass that there is God, acting among them, a daunting or even terrifying thought. Jesus replies to Peter’s recognition with his own generosity giving him a new name, ‘Rock’, for this is what ‘Peter’ means. If you name something, you make it your own, take it to yourself. This is just what Jesus does with Simon who becomes his own Peter. That is the importance of the naming of a child at Baptism: Jesus takes us to himself and we become his. The early Christians called themselves ‘Those over whom the name of Jesus has been called’. We may have been named Mary or John, but the name of Jesus has been called over us and we have become his. Jesus is with us and we have a name by which we are called and recognised. God in his all generosity, love and mercy calls us to himself acknowledging His life in us. May God bless us to recognise his kingdom within us. His love and mercy will win us to himself, life for ever. Blessed be God forever. Who is God for you? Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially Barney Scully, Hazel Kingston, Nesi Tan, Warren Stevenson, John Cairns-Cowan and Graeme Adams and those recovering at home including Eddie Wilkins. And we pray for the wonderful people who are caring for the everyday needs of the sick in our Community. We also pray for the members of our Parish families who have died recently especially Lorraine Watson and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Woo Low, Patrick Rosson, Margaret McCabe and Man. Sefo Alofosio. All Masses are suspended till we are back in alert level 1; Faithful are dispensed from Obligation of Mass as long as the restrictions remain. All churches are now closed except Holy Cross Church which will be open for personal prayer between 9am - 2pm each day. Following rules apply
We want to ensure we keep everyone safe Fr Ephrem is offering Mass every day from the prayer room in the presbytery at the following times till we are back at level 1
Parish Council Meeting – 2nd September 7pm, Gascoigne Room St Anthony’s Finance Committee Meeting – 8th September 7.30pm – venue TBC Vinnies Food Bank Appeal Saturday 29 August / 11am – 6pm at Pak n Save Kilbirnie (Please Note: if Government extends the current COVID Alert Level 2, this Food Bank collection will be cancelled) The St Vincent de Paul Society is holding their final Food Bank Appeal, collecting food to support individuals and families seeking food assistance over the coming holiday season. Vinnies provide a choice-based food bank, supporting over 2000 people each year – which is only made possible by the generous donations from our community. If you can afford to drop a few extra items in your trolley on Saturday 29 August, please look out for our Vinnies collection table. St Patrick’s church Liturgy Committee are looking for someone to run the Sacramental Programme for the children in 2021. In this programme the children are prepared for Reconciliation, Confirmation and Holy Communion. Each Sacrament has 3 lessons each which are held in the Parish Centre before or after Sunday Mass. Resources are provided and help and support provided. Are you interested in taking part? Please contact the Chairperson of the Committee Patricia O’Donnell 04 934 3179. Thank you. St Catherine’s College Enrolments Enrolments are now open at St Catherine's College. If you would like to make an interview with our Principal, Steve Bryan or come and look around please phone us on 04 9398988 or email us on office@scc.school.nz. We still have preference and non-preference spaces available. We also have limited scholarships for families needing extra financial assistance, to pay $1000 towards your attendance Dues fees to the Archdiocese. St Catherine's College aims to nurture and empower our young women to be active and creative learners. St. Mary's College has a small number of places available for Preference students in Year 9, 12 and 13 for 2021. Please see our website for further information https://www.stmw.school.nz/SMC-Parents/Enrolments-Fees/Enrolments-Fees or phone the school office 473 5554. UPDATE your information. Make sure that you receive Parish Communications.
Parish Property At a recent combined Parish Pastoral Council and Finance Committee meeting it was decided that the sale of Good Shepherd Hall will be the first step in the process of rationalising our parish property. The Cardinal has given permission for the sale process to go ahead, but this will of course, take some time. We will keep you informed. The Parish Pastoral Council has consulted with the Parish Aulotu who will eventually move their monthly Mass and meeting to St Anthony’s or one of the other Churches and halls in the Parish when the sale is finalised. We are still seeking some further clarification regarding other aspects of Cardinal John’s proposals regarding our property and will provide you with updates on all these matters too. Thank you for your support and patience. Please continue to pray and work together for the good of the whole parish as we move forward on our journey towards a future full of hope. Holy Trinity Finance Committee COVID-19 is still out there. Let’s play it safe. We’re at Alert Level 2 These are unusual times that we are living in. Not many of us would have imagined being back in Alert Level 2 again so soon. However here we are, and hopefully if we act as positively as we can, soon we’ll be back to our new normal. What each of us might remember:
There is a huge amount of on-line information about making and wearing face masks. (Minimise droplet spread) This link is quite a helpful one: https://youtu.be/quuA6854DmM (even though it’s from the Breast Cancer Foundation) What Holy Trinity Parish is doing:
Daily Prayer reflections (and more): https://www.pray.com.au/ So, what are some things that people of Faith are doing while churches are closed? Having my morning coffee and then praying the rosary. Just finding a quiet place and sitting in the presence of God. Praying every day. Reading the psalms and writing a daily reflection. Donating to the Food bank. Texting or calling people who might be lonely. I’ve heard some people are praying together on Zoom. I read the daily Mass reading most days. I like walking & praising God for his wonderful creation. Praying. St V de Paul contacting and helping those in need. Praying. Each day writing and thanking God in gratitude for all I have. Daily prayer. Greeting people I pass when out walking. Donating to the Hospice shop. Praying the Lectio Divina. I’ve been watching live-streamed Mass. Phoning my friends and family. Sharing my baking. Reading the Bible. I am more aware of God’s presence around me. Saying the rosary. Reading books about the Catholic faith. Trying to sit in silence and meditate for 10 minutes each morning. Journaling Apply now – The Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship is open Tertiary students in the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North who are entering into their third year or more of study are invited to apply for a Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship. Each student selected receives $3,000 towards their third year of tertiary study. For more details contact Kevin Crighton at sisteam@compassion.org.nz https://compassion.org.nz/latest-news/suzanne-aubert-tertiary-scholarship/ for application. Closes on 16 October 2020. Hospital Chaplaincy Assistants The Hospital Chaplaincy Department within Wellington Regional Hospital is enhanced by a team of volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants who give around 2 hours a week to visit all patients in a ward. We are currently looking to add to our team, people with good pastoral skills and willing to work within the terms of our contract with the Ministry of Health. A ten-week training programme is planned, running each Tuesday 1-3pm, beginning Tuesday 1st September to 3rd November. Expressions of interest are invited by Tuesday 25 August 2020 to Mary Minson at Mary.minson@ccdhb.org.nz Or: Mary Minson Chaplains Office Wellington Hospital Private Bag 7902 Wellington Mark 13: 10 “And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations” Some possible options as we can’t attend Mass on Sundays: This link takes you through to four different types of online retreats including a “3-Minute Retreat” and an Audio retreat as well as daily scripture with Sacred Space and Pray as You Go. https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/prayer-online/ Auckland Liturgy Office https://www.aucklandcatholic.org.nz/liturgy/ “Celebration of the Word at home” with links to daily readings and music Reflections from John O’Connor, ‘Food for Faith’ have just started again. https://foodforfaith.org.nz since we are back in level 2 and 3, NZ Catholic is again available free of charge on the link below https://indd.adobe.com/view/3c9e92b5-0dd7-45ad-b33f-286618e52857 ELECTION FORUM The Archdiocesan Ecology, Justice and Peace Commission invites you to an election forum on environmental and climate change issues. Young people of the Archdiocese will put questions to representatives of political parties Cardinal John will give an opening address on Laudato Si’ – care for our common home, and the event will be chaired by Dr Areti Metuamate, CEO of Te Kupenga – Catholic Leadership Institute Where: St Mary’s College Hall, Guildford Tce, Wellington When: Tuesday 1 September, 6-8pm (nibbles from 5.30pm, please bring your own cup) Please register for this free event at Eventbrite https://bit.ly/3kcwlC6 I want to sing to you – Fr Chris Skinner SM With an interlude from Kapiti Senior Singers. At our Lady of Kapiti Church on Sunday 20th September 2-4pm. Tickets $25 from Our Lady of Kapiti Parish Office 04 902-5815 or Mary Cook 027-298-3255 cookwellington@yahoo.com CDs for sale at the concert. The pandemic has highlighted how vulnerable and interconnected everyone is. If we do not take care of one another, starting with the least, with those who are most impacted, including creation, we cannot heal the world. Te Kupenga–Catholic Leadership Institute is seeking a Marketing and Business Development Advisor to build the profile of the organisation, which was formed on 1 January by the merger of Good Shepherd College and The Catholic Institute (TCI). The role is Auckland-based and fixed term full-time for two years. Full details: https://www.seek.co.nz/job/50415919 ‘ Is 56, 1, 6-7; Rom 11, 13-15. 29-32; mt 15, 21-28
Dear brothers and sisters, as we grapple with the second wave of Covid-19 and levels of lockdown, it time to increase our self defence of prayer, love and care for one another; so that you and I might be safe from it. Our faith with work will take us across at this time of struggle and suffering. Hold on to God, solution is just round the corner. Yesterday we celebrated the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven. It is an occasion to recognise God’s mercy to reconcile us to the Father. Through the “yes” of Mother Mary we see Christ like us and obtained full union with God. Mother Mary, the new EVE has become the source of life in Christ. Now let us look into the readings of the day, that God progressively fulfilled his promise of union with Him. Isaiah notes that the exiles have turned to the Promised Land, a sign that the promises mentioned earlier have been fulfilled. This is the opportunity to live faithfully the Covenant. Their deliverance from exile has strongly strengthened their identity as God’s Chosen People and made evident their mission to call others to the Lord. They are the number One or the Insiders, such as the Gentiles, are number two OUTSIDERS. Unfortunately, the foreign Outsiders are not the only ones discriminated against, but also the poor returnees from exile that found themselves victims of the rich and powerful and relegated to the margins of society. Isaiah is confident that God did not intend the Jerusalem community to be oppressive and unjust. The author hopes that life could be set up justly and nobody is “written off”. Practically, it means all must accept new rules and overcome the old order of exclusiveness and welcome everyone to the Holy of Holies, including the foreigners and poor Hebrews. Paul is convinced that the call to be a light to all nations has been irrevocable. The first call was to Israel and the second to others. In the gospel, Jesus went to the far north border of Israel, out of Galilee to the southern cities of Tyre and Sidon. These places were among the affluent regions in ancient times. Jesus, still in the Hebrew border region, meets a pagan woman, who comes from Phoenicia. She starts shouting at him asking for his help. To a Hebrew a Canaanite is like a “dog” which does not distinguish between clean and unclean food ... acknowledging the Davidic ancestry of Jesus, the woman hopes for a miraculous cure of her daughter. We have a conflict between chosen ones and outsiders, Jews and Gentiles. But Jesus brings the conflict to an end by making them both one community. It is common knowledge that everybody builds up our own boundaries that distinguish “us” from “them”. It is but natural to associate and feel at ease with our own group, with those of our community who speak our language, and with those who almost think and behave like us. Carried to extreme, this tendency leads to “discrimination” and violence. Look at the conflict, discrimination, violence we are causing because of our perceived “us” from “them”. Consider also the ethnic and derogatory jokes around us. We look down on those who are not of own kind and persuasion, who do not agree with us. Christ is the light of the World and in the language St Paul has “irrevocably” reconciled us to the Father. God’s love in Jesus has brought us together and we are united with Him. We are brothers and sisters to one another in Christ Jesus. Our love, faith in God, and prayer of perseverance will bear fruit. Our struggle is slight but joy of everlasting life is eternal. Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially Hazel Kingston, Nesi Tan, Warren Stevenson, John Cairns-Cowan and Graeme Adams and those recovering at home including Eddie Wilkins. And we pray for the wonderful people who are caring for the everyday needs of the sick in our Community. We also pray for the members of our Parish families who have died recently and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Anna Zanotto, Margaret Dodds, Mary Jarvis, Patricia Beattie, Christopher Burke and Robyn Adair . All Masses are suspended till Tuesday,18 August; No Holy Communion to the sick and homebound; priests will be available only for emergency call for sick and confession; No exceptions. Faithful are dispensed from Obligation of Mass as long as the restrictions remain. All churches are now closed except Holy Cross Church which will be open for personal prayer between 9am - 2pm each day. Following rules apply
We want to ensure we keep everyone safe Fr Ephrem is offering Mass every day from the prayer room in the presbytery at the following times Saturday 15th Aug - 10am Assumption Mass Saturday 15th Aug - 5.30pm Vigil Sunday 16th Aug - 10.30am Tuesday 18th Aug - 9.30am To join him live go to his Facebook page (Ephrem Tigga) Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: (15/16 August) This will be rescheduled to a later date. Thank you Vinnies Food Bank Appeal Saturday 29 August / 11am – 6pm at Pak n Save Kilbirnie The St Vincent de Paul Society is holding their final Food Bank Appeal, collecting food to support individuals and families seeking food assistance over the coming holiday season. Vinnies provide a choice-based food bank, supporting over 2000 people each year – which is only made possible by the generous donations from our community. If you can afford to drop a few extra items in your trolley on Saturday 29 August, please look out for our Vinnies collection table. St Patrick’s church Liturgy Committee are looking for someone to run the Sacramental Programme for the children in 2021. In this programme the children are prepared for Reconciliation, Confirmation and Holy Communion. Each Sacrament has 3 lessons each which are held in the Parish Centre before or after Sunday Mass. Resources are provided and help and support provided. Are you interested in taking part? Please contact the Chairperson of the Committee Patricia O’Donnell 04 934 3179. Thank you. St Catherine’s College Enrolments Enrolments are now open at St Catherine's College. If you would like to make an interview with our Principal, Steve Bryan or come and look around please phone us on 04 9398988 or email us on office@scc.school.nz. We still have preference and non-preference spaces available. We also have limited scholarships for families needing extra financial assistance, to pay $1000 towards your attendance Dues fees to the Archdiocese. St Catherine's College aims to nurture and empower our young women to be active and creative learners. Apply now – The Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship is open Tertiary students in the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North who are entering into their third year or more of study are invited to apply for a Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship. Each student selected receives $3,000 towards their third year of tertiary study. For more details contact Kevin Crighton at sisteam@compassion.org.nz https://compassion.org.nz/latest-news/suzanne-aubert-tertiary-scholarship/ for application. Closes on 16 October 2020. Hospital Chaplaincy Assistants The Hospital Chaplaincy Department within Wellington Regional Hospital is enhanced by a team of volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants who give around 2 hours a week to visit all patients in a ward. We are currently looking to add to our team, people with good pastoral skills and willing to work within the terms of our contract with the Ministry of Health. A ten-week training programme is planned, running each Tuesday 1-3pm, beginning Tuesday 1st September to 3rd November. Expressions of interest are invited by Tuesday 25 August 2020 to Mary Minson at Mary.minson@ccdhb.org.nz Or: Mary Minson Chaplains Office Wellington Hospital Private Bag 7902 Wellington Healing Service Tawa The proposed Healing Service in Tawa on Tuesday 18 August has been postponed because of the uncertainty of whether we will still be in Level due to Covid transmission. Romans 10: 13-14 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” With the uncertainty concerning covid-19 NZ Catholic is once again making available free of charge our latest issue in digital form. https://indd.adobe.com/view/3e987077-7246-44cb-92f0-a55d59017d5c ELECTION FORUM The Archdiocesan Ecology, Justice and Peace Commission invites you to an election forum on environmental and climate change issues. Young people of the Archdiocese will put questions to representatives of political parties Cardinal John will give an opening address on Laudato Si’ – care for our common home, and the event will be chaired by Dr Areti Metuamate, CEO of Te Kupenga – Catholic Leadership Institute Where: St Mary’s College Hall, Guildford Tce, Wellington When: Tuesday 1 September, 6-8pm (nibbles from 5.30pm, please bring your own cup) Please register for this free event at Eventbrite https://bit.ly/3kcwlC6 I want to sing to you – Fr Chris Skinner SM With an interlude from Kapiti Senior Singers. At our Lady of Kapiti Church on Sunday 20th September 2-4pm. Tickets $25 from Our Lady of Kapiti Parish Office 04 902-5815 or Mary Cook 027-298-3255 cookwellington@yahoo.com CDs for sale at the concert. Many of you will be grateful that Cardinal John has decided that in the interests of safety in the Wellington Archdiocese Masses and gatherings will be suspended during Alert Level 2 until at least after Tuesday 18th . People are dispensed from the Sunday Obligation and also that for the Feast of the Assumption of Mary . Here are some options for us to reflect and pray at home on the Alert Level 2 days. Saturday 15th Aug - 10am Assumption Mass Saturday 15th Aug - 5.30pm Vigil Sunday 16th Aug - 10.30am Tuesday 18th Aug - 9.30am To join him live go to his Facebook page (Ephrem Tigga) Saturday 15th is the Feast of the Assumption, the patronal feast of the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand. THE GOSPEL for the Assumption Feastday: Luke 1:39-59 AN ARTICLE by FR JAMES LYONS: https://www.nlo.org.nz/assets/Uploads/ASSUMPTION-by-J-Lyons.pdf SHH …ITS TIME TO WHISPER by DR ELIZABETH JULIAN RSM https://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/adw_welcom/assumption-of-mary-into-heaven/ Joy Cowley’s Magnificat Prayer from her book, Veil Over the Light (p.157) Song of Mary My soul sings in gratitude. I’m dancing in the mystery of God. The life of the Holy One is within me, And I am blessed, so truly blessed. This goes deeper than the human mind. My heart is filled with awe At Love whose only condition Is that it be received. It’s a gift not for the proud For they have no room for it. The strong and self-sufficient Do not have this awareness. But those who know their emptiness Can rejoice in God’s fullness. This is the Love we are made for, The reason for our existence. It fills our inmost heart space And brings to birth in us The Holy child of God. “If we have lived in the joyful service of God, which is expressed also in generous service to our brothers and sisters, our destiny, on the day of the resurrection, will be like that of our heavenly Mother.” Pope Francis 2018 1 Kings 19:9,11-13; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:22-23
Dear sisters and brothers, listen to the sound of silence: In Elijah’s case, things go differently. As before, there is a mighty wind, an earthquake, and 'fire' (lightning). But the Lord is not 'in' any of these. Instead, after the fire comes 'a sound of sheer silence' (so NSRV; the Hebrew original reads literally: 'a voice of thin silence'). Covering his face (lest he look upon the Lord and die), Elijah goes out to the entrance of the cave, where he is addressed by God and given a new mission. This is one of the great moments of revelation in the Old Testament. What lifts Elijah out of his depression and renews his vocation is a totally new sense of God. The Lord once manifest in terrifying upheavals of nature is now known in something as subtle and gentle as 'sheer silence,' a silence that somehow has a 'voice'. The Judaeo-Christian mystical tradition has its foundation here. The Gospel, Matt 14:22-33, follows on directly from the miraculous provision of food for the multitude, as described in last week’s Gospel. Jesus sends his disciples off to cross the lake by boat while he disperses the crowd and goes up the mountain alone to pray. The disciples struggling to make headway in a boat out on the lake are symbolic of the later Church in a situation in which it so often finds itself. In biblical thought wind and water out of control are stock images of chaos and destruction. The scene of the disciples battling a head-wind and heavy seas while Jesus remains apart on the mountain evokes a sense of the Church struggling against forces that threaten to engulf it, keenly sensing all the while the physical absence of its Lord. Eventually, of course, Jesus joins the disciples, walking on the sea – in biblical imagery a prerogative of God (Ps 77:19; Job 9:8; Isa 43:16). The phrase with which he identifies himself, “It is I”, evokes the self-identification of God to Moses at the Burning Bush (Exod 3:13-15). The presence of Jesus ('Emmanuel' [Matt 1:23 and 28:20]) is at one and the same time the saving presence of God. What prompts Peter’s bid to come to Jesus across the sea? Love, boldness, bravado? Perhaps all three – but also a measure of faith. Faith in Jesus enables Peter, for a time at least, to tread underfoot the watery forces of destruction. But his faith, like that of all disciples in Matthew’s Gospel, is prone to doubt. Jesus’ gentle word of remonstrance, after he has rescued Peter, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?', addresses all members of the Church. Peter 'models' the mixture of boldness and fear, strength and weakness, characteristic of us all. We can make our own his cry for rescue ('Lord, save me') and feel as he felt the Lord’s strong hand of rescue reaching out to raise us from the deep. Members of the Church, especially perhaps at the present time, can take great comfort from this scene. The Gospel recognises that there will be times of stress and danger when faith will be sorely tested and sometimes fail. But this does not mean that 'Emmanuel' is not with us, swift and sure to rescue, when, like Peter, we cry 'Lord, save us'. As Jesus and Peter get into the boat, the wind subsides and the disciples 'worship' him saying, 'Truly, you are the Son of God'? Like Elijah at Horeb, they have come to a new awareness of God’s saving presence among them. The Gospel suggests that such new awareness can be the outcome of crises in which the Church experiences weakness, failure, and faltering of faith. Dear brothers and sisters; may God give us grace of silence to hear Him deep within our heart away from the din of the world. May He give us wisdom to encounter him in our struggles and happiness; may His presence comfort us and lead us across the ocean to eternal life. Amen Fr Ephrem Holy Trinity Confirmation – Saturday 8th August 5.30pm St Anthony’s Church Today we pray for the children making their Confirmation: Mia Adams, Tom Adams, Jacob Blades, Anna Fascione, Sophie Flood, Harry Frampton, Liam Frampton, Blythe Lindsay, Thomas Monahan, Alice Mulhern, Maria Revelant, Cobie Smith, Joseph O'Donovan and Rueben Webley. We congratulate these children on taking another step in their faith journey. Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially Hazel Kingston, Nesi Tan, Warren Stevenson, John Cairns-Cowan and Graeme Adams and those recovering at home including Eddie Wilkins. And we pray for the wonderful people who are caring for the everyday needs of the sick in our Community. We also pray for the members of our Parish families who have died recently especially Franco Zanotto and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Gordon Paterson, Denis Clarke, Umberto Monastra, Catherine (Kay) Maud, Peter Bower, Mary (Molly) Harnett, Eileen Hare, Mary O’Brien, Mary Golding and Elizabeth Curry . The following measures will remain till further notice:
A Memorial Mass for Susan Jaimeson’s mother Marjorie Joan Critchley Rae, who passed away in England last year, will be held at St Patrick’s Church Kilbirnie Church 9.30am Tuesday 11th August. All welcome FEAST of ASSUMPTION of the BLESSED VIRGIN MARY 15TH AUGUST This is a HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION 10am St Patrick’s Church Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Father will be meeting the remaining Eucharistic Ministers or those interested in becoming a Eucharistic Minister after Mass in each of the churches next weekend (15/16 August) who did not meet with him in March. Please make sure you attend one of these sessions. Thank you Proclaimers of the Word: Father will be meeting with all proclaimers of the word or anyone interested in becoming a proclaimer of the word after Mass in each of the churches in September (15/16 and 19/20 September). Please make sure you attend one of these sessions. Thank you Altar server training Any child/ren who are keen to train to be altar servers can contact Andrew Greening 380 6052 or 027 438 5393 and arrange a session. A parent or other adult must be willing to be present while the training is taking place. Vinnies Food Bank Appeal Saturday 29 August / 11am – 6pm at Pak n Save Kilbirnie The St Vincent de Paul Society is holding their final Food Bank Appeal, collecting food to support individuals and families seeking food assistance over the coming holiday season. Vinnies provide a choice-based food bank, supporting over 2000 people each year – which is only made possible by the generous donations from our community. If you can afford to drop a few extra items in your trolley on Saturday 29 August, please look out for our Vinnies collection table. ST ANTHONY'S SCHOOL QUIZ NIGHT Friday 21st August, 7pm at Seatoun Bowling Club - mark it in your calendars now! Form a team, or join one on the night. Tickets $20 per person, includes 3 Raffle Tickets. Funds raised will go towards the Senior Playground at St Anthony's School. Tickets available from the School Office, & will also be available after 5.30pm Mass at St Anthony's on Saturday 15th August. Donations for the raffles gratefully accepted at the school office. St Catherine’s College Enrolments Enrolments are now open at St Catherine's College. If you would like to make an interview with our Principal, Steve Bryan or come and look around please phone us on 04 9398988 or email us on office@scc.school.nz. We still have preference and non-preference spaces available. We also have limited scholarships for families needing extra financial assistance, to pay $1000 towards your attendance Dues fees to the Archdiocese. St Catherine's College aims to nurture and empower our young women to be active and creative learners. St Catherine’s College will be celebrating Mass for the Assumption at St Patrick’s Church Thursday 13th August 2pm. Publications for sale Tui Motu - $7 NZ Catholic - $4 Put money in the zip lock bag provided and pop in the collection box in the church Apply now – The Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship is open Tertiary students in the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North who are entering into their third year or more of study are invited to apply for a Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship. Each student selected receives $3,000 towards their third year of tertiary study. For more details contact Kevin Crighton at sisteam@compassion.org.nz https://compassion.org.nz/latest-news/suzanne-aubert-tertiary-scholarship/ for application. Closes on 16 October 2020. The August 9 – 22 issue of NZ Catholic is out now. Some headlines are: Priests shouldn’t promote political parties. Auckland’s Mercy Spirituality Centre closes. Vatican instruction gives guidance on parish reforms. St Paul a model for ecumenical dialogue. The next issue of NZ Catholic will be published on August 23. Selected pages from this paper in digital form will be sent to parishes next week. Coast to Coast Rosary On the 15 August the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven, our patronal feast, there is to be a Coast to Coast Rosary throughout New Zealand. The main intention is to pray for the honouring of the gift of life. So many lives are lost in abortion and euthanasia. We will pray in reparation and intercession for a culture of life to prevail in our society. We will host an event on Saturday, the 15th August in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Cathedral at 3 pm followed by afternoon tea. Everyone is invited. Miramar Christian School open evening 20th August 6-7pm. 41 Camperdown Rd, Miramar, Wellington. http://www.christian.school.nz/ Tawa Healing Service On Tuesday 18 August Fr John Rea will conduct a Healing Service in Our Lady of Fatima Church , Tawa beginning at 7.30 pm. All are invited and especially those who need Jesus` healing. Jesus still heals today. Matthew 28:9 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” JOSHUA FELLOWSHIP Come and join other men on Thursday 20th August 2020. A cuppa available from 7:00pm for a 7:30pm start in CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the closed Sacred Heart Cathedral). Speaker: Gerard Wickrema, a Joshua leader on “Many are called; few are chosen” Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com Pax Christi Aotearoa New Zealand invites you to remember the tragedy that is war, on this the 75th anniversary of the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima (August 6th) and Nagasaki (August 9th) in Japan 1945. We ask you to pray for the prohibition of all nuclear weapons and to pray for peace in the world. Human Love in the Divine Plan (Theology of the Body) - First intake in Wellington! Courses for Young Adults (ages 18-35 years) on September 5 & 6, and for Adults on September 19 & 20. Venue: Challenge 2000, 1 Wanaka St, Johnsonville, Wellington. Early Registration: $40.00 (closes: 29 August). General Registration: $50.00. Contact 0220289737 or email info@marriageandfamily.org.nz. For information, visit: www.marriageandfamily.org.nz The storm exposes our vulnerability and uncovers those false and superfluous certainties around which we have constructed our daily schedules, our projects, our habits and priorities. It shows us how we have allowed to become dull and feeble the very things that nourish, sustain and strengthen our lives and our communities… We deprive ourselves of the antibodies we need to confront adversity. Pope Francis: Extraordinary Moment of Prayer and Urbi et Orbi blessing, 27 March 2020 Holy Trinity Parish Vision
We are a prayerful and diverse Catholic community in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington, drawing strength from one another to grow and become fully alive as missionary disciples. Isaiah 55:1-3; Romans 8:35, 37-39; Matthew 14:13-21 Boundless generosity of God: God gives freely and God gives in extravagant measure. Dear sisters and brothers, Isa 55:1-3. Speaks to the Israelites, who have known such a miserable existence during the time of Exile; the prophet holds out a vision of the messianic age. While the corn, wine and milk that is freely offered may refer in first instance to these foods in a material sense, the invitation to ‘come to the water’ echoes language associated in other parts of scripture with divine Wisdom (Proverbs 3; 8; Sirach 4; John 7:37-39). This suggests that what is really on offer is a divine enhancement of life for which, in the depths of their being, most people thirst. All forms of spirituality, all techniques of prayer, seek to tap this source of life, which is the gift of God alone and which, like a perpetual spring of water, is freely given. The episode of the Multiplication of the Loaves that forms the Gospel, Matt 14:13-21, looks backwards to biblical traditions about God’s generous provision of food, such as the manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16; Numbers 11) and the multiplication miracle of the prophet Elisha (2 Kings 4:42-44); it looks forward to the gift of the Eucharist and, ultimately, to the final banquet in the Kingdom of God, of which the Eucharist is both foretaste and symbol. In Matthew’s account what they particularly seek from Jesus is healing (in Mark 6:34 he ‘teaches’). When, despite his desire to withdraw, he accedes to their needs, they show no inclination to disperse. So, the disciples, functioning rather like ‘minders’ attached to a celebrity, urge him to send the crowds off to nearby villages to buy provisions for the night. Jesus reacts to the word ‘buy.’ He will not send people away to buy anything – nor should his disciples (see the First Reading): ‘There is no need for them to go; give them something to eat yourselves. When the astonished disciples point out that they barely have enough for themselves, Jesus freely provides more than enough food for the whole multitude through the miracle of the multiplication. Dear sisters and brothers, this is one of the more difficult miracles of Jesus to explain in terms of what might have ‘really happened’. Preachers are probably wise to keep away from such speculations – ultimately fruitless since we simply haven’t got sufficient information to ever know for sure. The fact that the tradition appears no less than six times across all four Gospels points to its theological significance in the early Christian tradition. It is on this that we should chiefly focus. Central to the theological significance is the way in which the episode anticipates the institution of the Eucharist. Jesus’ gestures – ‘taking (the loaves)’, ‘blessing’, ‘breaking’, ‘giving’ – foreshadow those at the Last Supper (Matt 26:26). The Evangelist expects that readers will understand that when they participate in the Eucharist they are experiencing the same divine hospitality that the Galilean crowds in this ‘lonely place’ experienced from Jesus. The miraculous feeding and the Eucharist which it foreshadows make clear that what God wants to do for humanity is simply be a most generous Host at the banquet of eternal life. At the same time, since it depicts people being fed with real food, it is also ‘sacramental’ in the sense of bearing directly upon the problem of hunger still affecting so large a proportion of our world. The Lord who looked on the large crowd and took pity on them, looks with similar eyes upon our world and instructs us, as he instructed his disciples, ‘Give them something to eat yourselves’. God gives freely and God gives in extravagant measure. In the words of Pedro Arrupe, ‘The Eucharist will never be complete so long as people still go hungry in our world’. Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially Hazel Kingston, Nesi Tan, Warren Stevenson, Eddie Wilkins, John Cairns-Cowan and Graeme Adams and for the wonderful people who are caring for the everyday needs of the sick in our Community. We also pray for the members of our Parish families who have died recently especially Anthony Khang Nguyen and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Trish Reynolds, June Formosa, Leo Price, and Brian Pohem. Holy Trinity Confirmation – Saturday 8th August 5.30pm St Anthony’s Church Please pray for our children as they prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation The following measures will remain till further notice:
Annointing Mass St Patrick’s Church 11am Wednesday 5th August Parish Council Meeting – 5th August 7pm in the Gascoigne Room St Anthony’s Church FEAST of ASSUMPTION of the BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Mass time 15TH AUGUST This is a HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION 10am St Patrick’s Church Altar server training Any child/ren who are keen to train to be altar servers can contact Andrew Greening 380 6052 or 027 438 5393 and arrange a session. A parent or other adult must be willing to be present while the training is taking place. Mark 13:10 “And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.” Pax Christi Aotearoa New Zealand invites you to remember the tragedy that is war, on this the 75th anniversary of the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima (August 6th) and Nagasaki (August 9th) in Japan 1945. We ask you to pray for the prohibition of all nuclear weapons and to pray for peace in the world. Home of Compassion Island Bay Winter film screening Gardening with Soul – 5 & 8 August 11am Join us for the feature length documentary following a year in the garden with 90-year-old Sister Loyola Galvin. The film will be introduced by Sr Sue Cosgrove. The Cloister Café will be open for refreshments. Bookings are required – phone (04) 282 1953 or email heritagecentre@compassion.org.nz Art, Contemplation, Action Retreat - 7-9 August 2020 Retreat Leader Raymond Pelly is an Anglican Priest with long experience in spiritual direction and prayer. “The ability of art to bring people to an experience of God is as powerful today as at any time in our history.” In silence and through music, art and story, Raymond will invite us to explore our responses to God in the realities of life. Registration required, please contact spirituality@compassion.org.nz or phone (04) 383 7769 for more information. Human Love in the Divine Plan (Theology of the Body) - First intake in Wellington! Courses for Young Adults (ages 18-35 years) on September 5 & 6, and for Adults on September 19 & 20. Venue: Challenge 2000, 1 Wanaka St, Johnsonville, Wellington. Early Registration: $40.00 (closes: 29 August). General Registration: $50.00. Contact 0220289737 or email info@marriageandfamily.org.nz. For information, visit: www.marriageandfamily.org.nz Healing Service Fr John Rea will conduct a Healing Service on Tuesday 18 August in Our Lady of Fatima Church Tawa beginning at 7.30pm. Please invite and bring those who need Jesus` healing. All are welcome. Enquiries: Ph. 04 8198323 The pandemic has reminded us how we are all in the same boat. Realizing that we have the same concerns and fears has shown us once more that no one can be saved alone. To grow truly, we must grow together, sharing what we have, like the boy who offered Jesus five barley loaves and two fish, yet they proved enough for five thousand people. Pope Francis: Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2020 Below is a link to a vocations feature from the latest issue of NZ Catholic. This issue is on sale now at the back of Holy Cross and St Anthony’s Churches https://indd.adobe.com/view/2bf843c1-7d59-4634-add9-a14781b7a3ef Coast to Coast Rosary On the 15 August the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven, our patronal feast, there is to be a Coast to Coast Rosary throughout New Zealand. The main intention is to pray for the honouring of the gift of life. So many lives are lost in abortion and euthanasia. We will pray in reparation and intercession for a culture of life to prevail in our society. We will host an event on Saturday, the 15th August in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Cathedral at 3 pm followed by afternoon tea. Everyone is invited. Apply now – The Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship is open Tertiary students in the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North who are entering into their third year or more of study are invited to apply for a Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship. Each student selected receives $3,000 towards their third year of tertiary study. For more details contact Kevin Crighton at sisteam@compassion.org.nz https://compassion.org.nz/latest-news/suzanne-aubert-tertiary-scholarship/ for application. Closes on 16 October 2020. ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY, HOLY TRINITY PARISH Introduction Your St Vincent de Paul Society Conference in Holy Trinity Parish continues actively to gain strength from our fellow parishioners as missionary disciples and to reach out to the poor, sick, lonely and marginalised in the Kilbirnie, Miramar, Seatoun, and Strathmore communities. In spite of the disruptions of COVID-19, new members have responded to the call to put their faith into action. They are joining in the Vinnies mission, adding to our group of eight core members and loyal band of 25 associate members and helpers now also serving the Kilbirnie area. Drawing strength from one another as missionary disciples We are so grateful to all the parishioners and other local donors who provided compassionate support in many ways for those in need regardless of their faith, race and situation –
Brendan Quirk St. Vincent de Paul Society, Holy Trinity Parish, Eastern Suburbs, Wellington “Reach out to all those in need, that they may feel the love of Our Lord and the compassion of their neighbour”. Donations: To support our assistance to families suffering hardship in the Eastern Suburbs, please pay online to: St Vincent de Paul Society, Seatoun & Miramar Conference, BNZ Kilbirnie, Account No. 02 - 0576 - 0017817 – 06; or contact Maria Pene, our local SVDP Treasurer, ph 022 428 0427, email: mpene20@gmail.co.nz |
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October 2020
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