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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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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. 1kg 3, 5. 7-12; Rom 8, 28-30; Mt 13, 44-52 Am I with Jesus inside the house in this journey!!! On this 17th Sunday of ordinary time, the Church reminds us that the greatest of all treasures is the Kingdom of God. In his love, God himself has chosen us, and prepared it for us before time. So, the holy mother church encourages us to pray for wisdom as Solomon did, to enable us to discern the true value and mysteries of God’s kingdom. Lat two Sundays we have seen Jesus after sowing the seeds had gone inside the house to engage himself with His disciples explaining the mystery of God’s kingdom. This helped his disciples to immerse in the mission of Jesus. There is nothing more than to grow in the goodness and commandments of God learning from the master himself. Today’s first reading began in a remarkably interesting way. If you were Solomon what would you ask for? Some of us would, ask for more cars, houses, foods, money, power, children and much more! On the contrary, Solomon asked for wisdom for the benefit of both his kingdom and God’s kingdom. He begged God to give him understanding: “Give your servant a heart to understand how to discern between good and evil.” I would say there is nothing greater than to be with the Lord in his house and learn to be with Him. An understanding heart is God’s gift (Prov 2:6). We need it every day, and in all aspects of our life, family, work, studies, sports, and in all life’s decisions to succeed. So, the Apostle James encourages us: “If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously…and it will be given to you (Jas 1:5). Wisdom was given to Solomon because he asked for it. However, God expects us to ask wisely, reasonably, and not selfishly. In the second reading, Paul reminds us that: “In everything, God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” God is leading us through the storms of life towards our home, and towards his kingdom. Carefully, He orders all the events of our lives to lead us there. This is what we call providence. Simply put, that God’s powerful hand is active in all the circumstances of our lives. “Everything” is utterly inclusive and comprehensive. It has no qualifications or limits. Therefore, neither this verse nor its context allows for restrictions or conditions. “All things” is inclusive in the fullest possible sense. It includes your present trouble, your heavy heart, your poverty, your richness, joblessness, your success and failure, your weakness and strength, as well as your sickness and health. Indeed, “everything” and nothing is left out! Nothing exists or occurs in heaven or on earth without the knowledge of God. By saying that “all things work together for us,” Paul tries to reassure us that there is no discord in God’s providence. This is especially, for those who through their faith in Christ have wisely become God’s friends. He also assures us that, nothing can ultimately work against those whom God has chosen for his Kingdom. Those, who walk faithfully with him and love his commands. Today’s gospel is a continuation of Jesus’ use of parables to teach us about the Kingdom of God. Therefore, it is a call to be as wise as Solomon. Without wisdom, we can neither understand the parables of Christ, nor seek the kingdom of God. Today’s good news is also a call to value what is most precious to us, and for which God has chosen us. Parables are intended to instruct us to prefer the kingdom of heaven to this world, and to ensure that nothing prevents us from entering it. Through these parables, Christ reminds us of the excellence and beauty of eternal life. The kingdom of God is indeed a treasure hidden from the wise of this world. Only those who are wise according to God’s standard look for it and find it. To find it, we must first value it, and when we have found it, we must hide it in our hearts. Therefore, let us ask God for understanding and wisdom as Solomon did, so that we may be wise enough to discern what is good for us, and to make God’s kingdom our priority. Am I with Jesus inside the house in this journey!!! 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 and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Mollie and Jack O’Donnell, Judith Mary Wallace, Emmett Myers, John Seamer, James Todd, Simamao Taofinuu, Mary Walsh and Francis Mallia . No confession Saturday 1st August - Fr will be attending the Chrism Mass Chrism Mass 2020; this year’s Chrism Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Kāpiti Church, Milne Drive, Paraparaumu on Saturday 1 August at 10.30am. All are welcome. We will also be joined by some of the Clergy and laity from the Diocese of Palmerston North for this Mass of Chrism Fr Ephrem’s birthday is Saturday 1st August. The Parish wishes him every blessing and best wishes on his special day. Please remember him in your prayers. Holy Trinity Confirmation Please pray for our children as they prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation in August The toilet key has been found and returned to the sacristy. Thank you. The following measures will remain till further notice:
We would like to congratulate Denise Johnson on becoming principal of St Anthony’s School. Denise and her family have a long association with St Anthony’s Church and School communites. The Parish would like to welcome her into her new role and also congratulate Francesca von Lanthen, a past pupil, on being appointed deputy principal. St Anthony’s School Grandparents Mass – Friday 31st July 11.30am Grandparents Mass/ Pōwhi ri to welcome our new families will be held on Friday 31 July at 11: 30 am. This will be followed by a time of sharing and light lunch. All welcome to join in this celebration. Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 1Chronicles 16:24 “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous deeds among all peoples.” The kingdom is here, it returns, it struggles to flourish anew. Christ’s resurrection everywhere calls forth seeds of that new world; even if they are cut back, they grow again, for the resurrection is already secretly woven into the fabric of this history. Pope Francis: Evangelii Gaudium paragraph 278 United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons – 30th July, 2020 "On this World Day against Trafficking in Persons, let us reaffirm our commitment to stop criminals from ruthlessly exploiting people for profit and to help victims rebuild their lives." -- UN Secretary-General António Guterres People trafficking and modern day slavery is a massive world-wide problem with very few countries immune. The United Nations has set aside this day annually to raise awareness and increase prevention. Human Trafficking Statistics
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 Parish Office Support Roles - Wellington South Parish We are seeking to employ suitably qualified persons to join our Parish Office Support Team in administration and finance roles. Both are part-time, and the parish is open to one person with suitable skills doing both. For a copy of the job descriptions please email office@wellingtonsouthcatholic.org. Please send your application and CV to Fr Doug Shepherd: doug.shepherd@wellingtonsouthcatholic.org The Coast to Coast Rosary for Life and Faith will be held this year on Saturday 15th August at 3 pm. Please help lead or join a group in your parish or community. For more information, please go to www.coasttocoastrosary.co.nz or phone Clare 022 1912 886 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 July 26 – August 8 issue of NZ Catholic is out now. Some headlines are: Small change to Opening Prayer at Mass. Mercy sister was hospice pioneer. Dunedin bishop returns to duties. Answering Jesus’ call – vocations feature. Wis 12, 13. 16-19; Rom 8, 26-27; Mt 13, 24-43
God gives us time, but do we grab that time!!! Dear sisters and brothers, The first reading today is not easy to understand. The translation from the original language is complex and so when we hear the reading, it can often go over our heads. And those of us who must preach about this reading will often just skip over it—because it is difficult to understand. The reading is simply telling us that God is all-powerful but is gentle and always wants to give us time for repentance. We could perhaps even say that God invites us to change our ways of living so that every aspect of our life reflects His love and compassion. Repentance for us means that we are willing to change our ways of living and even to see that many of our ways of living are not what God is asking of us. Most of us want to follow God. Most of us come to Church because we believe in Christ and accept His Gospel. On the other hand, it is not easy for us to want to give up totally everything that stands in the way of a strong and vibrant relationship with God. The Gospel reflects this reality that we live every day. We find ourselves with a lot of good within us, but also some weedy parts of our lives. The Gospel even sounds like we should not get too concerned about the weeds! Rather, we should cultivate the good seed, that which is really good within us. This seems to be a fairly consistent teaching in our spiritual tradition. We must be careful not to think that we should pay no attention to evil at all, because that is not what the Gospel is telling us. Rather, we need to make sure that our daily attention is on doing good. One of the Psalms tells us: Turn away from evil and do good. Following Christ is not just about avoiding evil. It is much more about learning how to love the good and to do the good and to rejoice in doing good. Following Christ is about wanting to know Christ personally and to rejoice in this relationship and to live from this relationship. Perhaps we should think of the second reading! It is the Spirit of Jesus that will intercede for us and show us the way. It is the Spirit that will come to the aid of our weakness, showing us how to pray and how to live with joy and delight in the Lord. This Sunday we can renew our desire to turn away from all that may be evil within us, to turn away from all that is evil outside of us and still attracts us—and we can ask the Spirit to draw us with love and compassion so that we want to live the fullness of divine life in every aspect of our lives. Let us give thanks to God. 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 and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Patricia Gallagher, Marie Burgess, Marie Hopkins, Margaret (Jean) Cheetham, Agnes Mora, Marie Sparkes-Jackman, Majorie Parker and Velda Ashton. A Memorial Mass for Rae Dawson will be held at Holy Cross Church 9.30am Friday 24th July. All welcome The toilet key in the sacristy at St Patrick’s is missing. If you have accidentally picked it up or have seen it, could you return please. It is on a yellow tag. Thank you. The following measures will remain till further notice:
Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 John 20:21 “Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” Parish Office Support Roles - Wellington South Parish We are seeking to employ suitably qualified persons to join our Parish Office Support Team in administration and finance roles. Both are part-time, and the parish is open to one person with suitable skills doing both. For a copy of the job descriptions please email office@wellingtonsouthcatholic.org. Please send your application and CV to Fr Doug Shepherd: doug.shepherd@wellingtonsouthcatholic.org Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience for couples intending to be married. Remaining weekends for 2020 are 18 & 19 July and 14 & 15 November. Venue is Otari Parish presbytery, 301 Karori Road, Karori, Wellington. Registrations close 2 weeks before. For more details go to the website http://www.cee-wellington.co.nz/ Phone Kate and Simon Olson. 04 801 6192 or email simonolsen@gmail.com Notice of a public meeting with National’s Hon Alfred Ngaro MP on Referendum and Conscience issues. Thursday 23 July, 7.30pm-9 pm, at the Brentwood Hotel, 16 Kemp Street, Kilbirnie. For catering purposes, please RSVP to Elizabeth: kawerau55@gmail.com . Parking available at the venue. Hosted by David Patterson National Party Candidate for Rongotai (022 170 4184) JOSHUA FELLOWSHIP Come and join other men for a cuppa, prayer and a talk on Thursday 16th July 2020 at 7:30pm (Note: fellowship from 7:00pm for 7:30pm start) In CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the Sacred Heart Cathedral). Speaker: Jack Ponting, our Joshua Newsletter Editor on “Gift of JOY, pure and simple” Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com Marist St Pats RFC – Past Players and Supporters Complimentary luncheon and launch of the Clubs 50th Jubilee Book “C’mon Red” Saturday 25 July at the Hataitai Clubrooms. The Coast to Coast Rosary for Life and Faith will be held this year on Saturday 15th August at 3 pm. Please help lead or join a group in your parish or community. For more information, please go to www.coasttocoastrosary.co.nz or phone Clare 022 1912 886 Pa Maria Marist Spirituality Centre - Revised Programme for 2020, with dates for the Winter Film Series, Spiritual Theology Course and Non-Residential Retreat. If you would like an emailed copy, please contact Brian Cummings SM at bgcummings@xtra.co,nz United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons – 30th July, 2020 "On this World Day against Trafficking in Persons, let us reaffirm our commitment to stop criminals from ruthlessly exploiting people for profit and to help victims rebuild their lives." -- UN Secretary-General António Guterres People trafficking and modern day slavery is a massive world-wide problem with very few countries immune. The United Nations has set aside this day annually to raise awareness and increase prevention. Human Trafficking Statistics
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. Seafarers Worldwide Last Sunday was the day of prayer for Seafarers. These are very difficult times for many of those who work on ships all over the world. Some crews, particularly those on cruise ships are in a kind of limbo, unable to berth, maybe in quarantine or isolation and unable to get home to families for whom they are often the main or only breadwinners. Other crews are on ships and are still working but are also under stringent restrictions, delivering food and goods between countries where borders are open. Support is offered to all crew members in some ports around the world especially through the work of the Apostleship of the Sea, a Catholic Charity, internationally also known as Stella Maris. Its aim is to help support the welfare of all seafarers irrespective of nationality or belief while they are in port. You may be interested in learning more about at the Apostleship of the Sea and its work at https://www.aos.org.nz/ AND https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/wellington/ Eternal Father strong to save Whose arm has bound the restless wave Who bidd’st the mighty ocean deep Its own appointed limits keep O hear us when we cry to Thee For those in peril on the sea. (First Verse from a Hymn for all seafarers by William Whiting -1860) This verse of the hymn Eternal Father Strong to Save, is sung in video footage from Marine Nationale de France. Video 2:08 dur. View Video Here (The hymn starts almost halfway in) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dlXmuYuAYc "Know you are not alone and that you are not forgotten." Pope Francis speaks to seafarers and fishermen. View Vatican video here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuTWFXJq3bk) You may like to offer this prayer for the 1.3+million men and women seafarers across the world. Be with Seafarers, Lord, on all their voyages, to cheer them and keep them safe in all dangers. Let nothing afloat or on shore cut them off from you. May they please you in everything they do. Bless all on board their ship, whatever their responsibility. Enable everyone to do their duty. Help them to be good shipmates and bring them back again safely to their homes and to those who long for their return, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Is 55:10-11; Rom 8:18-23; Mt 13:1-23 or 13:1-9
The Prodigal Sower Dear brothers and sisters, parables are really a form of writing and preaching that the ancient rabbis in Israel used in order to explain the closeness and the goodness and what God was like. Jesus, being a rabbi and having that same kind of mission, he had come to preach the Kingdom of God was here and now, he turned to teaching them through parables. Basically, a parable is an open-ended story. Open-ended stories leave you hanging and it means that you are supposed to, in a sense, close it. And you close it with your own understanding of each parable. So a parable is story, but it is a story without much conclusion, and it says to the listener, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” The Kingdom of God doesn’t mean a place. The Kingdom of God is God Himself. It is a place in the sense it is where He is and where He is adored and where He is loved and where He is cared for and where He is listened to. The Kingdom of God means that the listener to the parable has to have faith. You have to put your faith into the words. And, of course, the one who is giving these words and telling us these stories is Jesus, the Son of God. And so it is that Jesus tells the parable and the people listen to the parable, but afterwards he goes into the house. You notice the house always plays a role in the gospel story, because when Jesus goes into the house it means he is with his disciples and he is preparing them for their ministry. And their ministry, of course, is his ministry. The story is very simple. The sower prepares the field. He prepares the field to receive the seeds which are the word of God. The sower now sows the seed and here’s where it begins. And when he does this and he fills the whole area with seeds, he also includes the thorn bushes, and he also includes the places where the people walk, and he also includes the areas where the seed will find rocky soil and will grow just a little bit and then suddenly it will disappear because it has no roots. Any good farmer would say, “You’re wasting your seed. You must plant carefully like we do.” The sower is more than a sower. He’s not just sowing seeds. He’s kind of like almost happy to be in the field flinging these seeds around. It doesn’t matter if they only last a day. It doesn’t matter if they’re in the wrong place. It doesn’t matter as long as those seeds hit the earth some place, or even the sidewalks or what have you. We learn from this parable is everybody should be covered by the word of God. You just don’t pick up with Catholics or Protestants, or this or that, all the things we think would be appropriate for this farmer to be doing. He is prodigal. No-one is outside — even those who are choked, choked by the cares of the world, even those that are trampled down and they seem like people who nobody loves or cares for. It’s not a place for the best of the best if we want a nice, huge wonderful harvest, you see. It’s a place where God comes. And He comes everywhere in every kind of way. Jesus is the sower and the seed is the word of God and the word of God gives life. And then also is included in this now is that every seed must die. And Jesus, the one who is throwing all these seeds down, has told, at another time, the Son of Man must also die, for the seed must die in order to give new life. Well, now we have a whole different understanding. We begin to realise that you can take a parable, a simple little story, and you can begin to see that behind it is an introduction to the heart of God. God has no biases. To God, each and every seed is precious in His eyes, and each and every seed does not have to be tenderly cared for but it has to feel that it belongs. We are called to prepare our heart for the seed and allow it to grow and bear fruits. May the seed of God’s word find our fertile heart to establish his kingdom within us. 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 Gwen Carre and Lorraine Arthurs and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Kenneth (Ken) Masters, Nancie Burge and Lizzie Gamble. A Memorial Mass for Rae Dawson will be held at Holy Cross Church 9.30am Friday 24th July. All welcome The following measures will remain till further notice:
Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 The July 12-25 issue of NZ Catholic is out now. Some headlines are: Church doesn’t require Jesus to be blonde and blue-eyed. New home for babies and mothers. Christchurch parish outreach training planned. Caritas opposes West Bank plans. The next issue of NZ Catholic will be published on July 26. Selected pages from this paper in digital form will be sent to parishes next week. John 20:21 “Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience for couples intending to be married. Remaining weekends for 2020 are 18 & 19 July and 14 & 15 November. Venue is Otari Parish presbytery, 301 Karori Road, Karori, Wellington. Registrations close 2 weeks before. For more details go to the website http://www.cee-wellington.co.nz/ Phone Kate and Simon Olson. 04 801 6192 or email simonolsen@gmail.com JOSHUA FELLOWSHIP Come and join other men for a cuppa, prayer and a talk on Thursday 16th July 2020 at 7:30pm (Note: fellowship from 7:00pm for 7:30pm start) In CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the Sacred Heart Cathedral). Speaker: Jack Ponting, our Joshua Newsletter Editor on “Gift of JOY, pure and simple” Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com Marist St Pats RFC – Past Players and Supporters Complimentary luncheon and launch of the Clubs 50th Jubilee Book “C’mon Red” Saturday 25 July at the Hataitai Clubrooms. The Coast to Coast Rosary for Life and Faith will be held this year on Saturday 15th August at 3 pm. Please help lead or join a group in your parish or community. For more information, please go to www.coasttocoastrosary.co.nz or phone Clare 022 1912 886 Pa Maria Marist Spirituality Centre - Revised Programme for 2020, with dates for the Winter Film Series, Spiritual Theology Course and Non-Residential Retreat. If you would like an emailed copy, please contact Brian Cummings SM at bgcummings@xtra.co,nz We are looking for volunteers who can help us collect for the Mary Potter Hospice Street Collection on the 18h and 19th September. All the money raised at the Appeal will be used to help us keep our services free-of-charge for anyone that may need us. It is because of all our amazing volunteers (and the support we receive from the community) that come back year after year to support us, that we are able to continue to provide the great service that we do. If you can help us by volunteering at this year’s street collection, please register your support on our website https://marypotter.org.nz/events/street-appeal/ Help protect yourself from winter bugs. When you’re entering public buildings always use the hand sanitiser. . Be Happy In Aotearoa NZ we are fortunate in so many ways. We’ve acted together to protect ourselves from Covid-19, we’re supporting local; while we’re still being kind, we need to ensure that kindness includes ourselves as well, especially those facing new or unexpected challenges in life. Giving - Do things for others Relating - Connect with people Exercising -Take care of your body Awareness - Live mindfully Trying Out - Keep learning Direction - Have goals to achieve Resilience - Find positive ways to cope with challenge Emotions - Look for the positive in situations Acceptance - Accept the good in yourself; made in God’s image Meaning -You’re a vital part of something bigger than yourself Reflect God of Resurrection, be our companion throughout each day. Encircle us with the splendour of your light. Let nothing disturb us or take away our peace. Open our eyes to recognise the many blessings in our lives and all the possibilities that await us in every moment. May this simple prayer be true in our lives today. AMEN 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. Zechariah 9:9-10; Romans 8:9, 11-13; Gospel: Matthew 11:25-30 “Come to me, all you who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Dear sisters and brothers, this short passage is said by many to be the most beautiful words that Jesus speaks. And the irony is he is speaking it to people who will not listen to him. But instead of being upset and annoyed, he turns back again and he says to them, “You know, the things that have been done here, if they were done in Sodom and Gomorrah, they would have come back and repented and turned their lives around and come back to the Lord.” And he looks at them. And I suppose they all look back at him and say in their hearts, “Show me that you’re very special.” But then Jesus never lets them go. Why? Because the thing that makes him hook up with everyone — the ones who deny him, the ones who maligned him, the ones that say he’s a fraud, all the ones who want this and the ones who want that, and the ones more interested in many things, but none of them seem to be interested in him, in him and the one thing that marks the Messiah — the Messiah is in love. The Son of God is in love. And he loves them all: the nice ones, the ones who listen, the ones who gather around him and make him feel welcome. But he, also, deep down inside, his feeling is of great love for the ones who walk away, the ones who even curse him and, ultimately, the ones who crucify him. It is Jesus’ love that makes all life possible. He looks up at his Father and what does he say? “Destroy them”? No. He says, “Father, you must forgive them. They don’t know what they’re doing.” He even gives an excuse: it’s not their own fault, they’re just kind of lost and wandering in the darkness, they don’t know where to turn, they have their own little agendas inside them and, no matter how often they fail, they still think that surrendering to you, Almighty Father, to surrender to you is a mistake, it must be something else. And so it is that Jesus shows us how to love. You can’t love and take back. And what does Jesus do? He gives. He gives and he gives and he gives. People reject him and he doesn’t care, he still loves them. And he gives and he gives and he never takes back. We can be very cruel and nasty. And the worst of us are probably the ones who think they never sin, because they hold back the love of God that is waiting for them to say, “Lord, I’m sorry.” These are the magic words. Not that God hasn’t forgiven long before you even ask for it, because He’s God. God loves. He can’t delay this kind of thing. But the words, “I am sorry,” He knows is we opening the gates of our own heart so He can finally walk in. Dear sisters and brothers, if you want to touch God and feel the reality of God’s life and this wonderful world He has created for all of us, you’ve got to learn how to give. And the more you give, the more you’ll understand. And the more you understand, the more you realise how much we need forgiveness. Because when you go in that direction, all your little faults, all your little problems, seem to increase. But so does this great feeling that you are with a God who is carrying you through all the difficulties of life. And at times you feel that you are dropped, but He always catches you in time. At times you feel frustrated, but He’s always been there to smile at you. As long as you keep the flame of gift in your heart, He knows that you two, He and you, will walk home into eternal life, together. 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 Desmond (Des) Becker and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Garry Martin, Mark O’Connor, Dennis (Hugh) Manley, Sophia Athenassiou and Frank Folan . Des Becker’s funeral will be Tuesday 7th July at 11am in St Patrick’s Church. 9.30am Mass on that day has been cancelled. A Memorial Mass for Rae Dawson will be held at Holy Cross Church 9.30am Friday 24th July. All welcome Parish Property Project: A Future Full of Hope On the 24th June 2020 Cardinal John Dew responded to our Parish Property review submitted at the end of October 2019. The letter was addressed to Fr. Ephrem, Parish Council and Finance Committee Chairs. I have met with both chairs and with the parish council and finance committee. We will now come together to have a joint meeting this weekend. After these discussions, we will inform the parish of Cardinal John’s response. It is a time of prayerful reflection and discernment for all of us. May I request you to continue to pray at this time of change as we move forward together. Fr Ephrem The following measures will remain till further notice:
Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 Please remember that while those of us who were in NZ during Lockdown are “Covid free” (not including the majority of those returning home in recent weeks!!) the MoH, Government and our Bishops still encourage us in safe practices.
At Church
Alert Level 1 - means the risk of COVID-19 is being managed.https://uniteforrecovery.govt.nz/covid-19/ Enjoy our environment and buy local to support locals There is currently a big push encouraging us to value all NZ has to offer, locally sourced and produced goods and services, places to visit and have fun, and to make time to enjoy our natural environment. With school holidays coming up some of us will have extra time to take advantage of these local (and slightly further afield opportunities). A few things to consider:
Food Bank Each of our churches has a box or basket either in the foyer or just inside the body of the church as a collection point for you to donate food items to be distributed via St V de Paul or the Food Bank to those who are currently in need. Communication with Parishioners Being able to communicate efficiently with parishioners is important for our community. Our Church App and newsletter are two effective methods. Please request to receive our newsletter by email (and save some paper too). Planned Giving and Donations – one ongoing way to help support your parish Unfortunately the banking procedures for depositing parish money have been changed due to bank requirements and we are encouraging those of you who can, to change to Automatic Payments. If you are willing and able to do this, please phone or email Marianne at the Parish office or follow the following instruction: Holy Trinity Parish BNZ Bank account number 02-0536-0185031-000. Use your planned giving number (or your name) as your reference so the payment can be allocated correctly. You will receive a tax receipt at the end of each financial year. A memorial Mass will be celebrated for Father Michael O’Dea in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of Sacred Heart Cathedral on Tuesday 7 July at 5.30pm with a time of remembering after in the foyer of the Cathedral. Michael died in the early hours of the morning on Sunday 17 May. A requiem Mass was celebrated on 20 May (Level 2 of lockdown) and he was buried at the Hawera Cemetery on Thursday 21 May. All are welcome to attend this Mass. Please RSVP to Tania Halliday t.halliday@wn.catholic.org.nz your attendance for catering purposes. We are looking for volunteers who can help us collect for the Mary Potter Hospice Street Collection on the 18h and 19th September. All the money raised at the Appeal will be used to help us keep our services free-of-charge for anyone that may need us. It is because of all our amazing volunteers (and the support we receive from the community) that come back year after year to support us, that we are able to continue to provide the great service that we do. If you can help us by volunteering at this year’s street collection, please register your support on our website https://marypotter.org.nz/events/street-appeal/ Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Stella Maris – Sea Sunday 12 July If you feel compassionate for seafarers and fishers and would like to help in the work of Stella Maris, Please pray for us on Sea Sunday. As well, you may wish to call the Sella maris National Director on 027 492 0250 to discuss how you can help. Or you may like to support us with a small donation to ANZ 06 0582 0083650 00 (account name Apostleship of the Sea Inc) with your name as reference. Please make sure to email jeffdrane@zos.org.nz or call the above number so we can send you a receipt. Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience for couples intending to be married. Remaining weekends for 2020 are 18 & 19 July and 14 & 15 November. Venue is Otari Parish presbytery, 301 Karori Road, Karori, Wellington. Registrations close 2 weeks before. For more details go to the website http://www.cee-wellington.co.nz/ Phone Kate and Simon Olson. 04 801 6192 or email simonolsen@gmail.com Healing Service Fr John Rea sm will conduct a Healing Service at St Bernadette`s Church, 194 Naenae Rd, Naenae on Wednesday 8 July beginning at 7.30 pm. Please invite all who need Jesus` healing. All are welcome. Enquiries Ph 8198323. The Coast to Coast Rosary for Life and Faith will be held this year on Saturday 15th August at 3 pm. Please help lead or join a group in your parish or community. For more information, please go to www.coasttocoastrosary.co.nz or phone Clare 022 1912 886 SACRED HEART SCHOOL 125th CELEBRATIONS Sacred Heart School opened 125 years in North East Valley in October this year. A variety of functions have been put together to encourage past pupils, teachers and friends of the school to attend and celebrate this milestone at Labour Weekend 2020.If you’ve been associated with Sacred Heart School, you are invited to email your committee at reunion125@sacredheartdn.school.nz or phone the school on 03 473 8362. A Registration Form will be available for you to download soon. Sunday Coordinator. Working for the Catholic Parish of Christchurch West We need leaders who have energy, vision and creativity that want to work as a member of our Parish Senior Leadership Team to help all to live with and in the Spirit, for the Father. To apply, one must have an education in Catholic Theology, ability to plan or vision, desire to Evangelise, experience with a parish and/or diocese. It is a full time position. To apply for one of the vacancies (contact Christchurch West parish for further details), please send us your: • CV • a response to the Job Description (three – page limit) • a statement about your personal approach to ministry Applications can be sent to priest@stteresas.org.nz Please turn in all applications before July 11th, 2020 JOSHUA FELLOWSHIP Come and join other men for a cuppa, prayer and a talk on Thursday 16th July 2020 at 7:30pm (Note: fellowship from 7:00pm for 7:30pm start) In CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the Sacred Heart Cathedral). Speaker: Jack Ponting, our Joshua Newsletter Editor on “Gift of JOY, pure and simple” Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com Below is a link to selected pages from the latest issue of NZ Catholic. Most of these pages have been chosen as they might be of interest to younger readers. They also remind people in parishes that NZ Catholic is still on sale in their churches. https://indd.adobe.com/view/aba01a89-256a-4c62-9274-47fc73e642d4 The July 2020 edition of WelCom, is being distributed to parishes and schools this week for Sunday 5 July. Content for July WelCom includes: *Fr Trung Nguyen, newly ordained priest for Palmerston North Diocese. *Cathedral of the Holy Spirit – feature. * ‘Restore all things in Christ’ – Cardinal John Dew. * SVDP – national recovery appeal. * Sacred Heart Cathedral – restoration update. *Solidarity: Lockdowns and Black Lives Matters – opinions by Mons Gerard Burns and Bishop Peter Cullinane. * Returning to school after lockdown – Catholic primary school principals. * Accompanying families with love , respect and guidance – reflection by Sharron Cole. * World Day against Trafficking in Persons – 30 July. * Local and international news and views. July WelCom is also available on our website as a single-page download at this link: https://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/adw_welcom/welcom-july-2020-issue-384/ This is the message that the Church gives us today: which Jesus says so firmly: ‘New wine in new wineskins!’… May the Lord give us the grace of an open heart, of a heart open to the voice of the Holy Spirit, which can discern what must not change because it is fundamental from what has to change in order to be able to receive the newness of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis: Morning meditation 18 January 2016 2 Kings 4, 8-11. 13-16; Rom 6, 3-4. 8-11; Mt 10, 37-42
Hospitality Each one of us feel happy and comfortable in a place people are friendly, cheerful, welcoming and look after our needs and comfort. We love to visit those places again and again and cherish those moments. We have wonderful example of hospitality in the gospel. “anyone who welcomes you welcomes me; and those who welcome me welcome the one who sent me” and gives even a cup of water will be rewarded. In the 2nd book of the kings, Shunamite woman who welcomed and gave hospitality to the prophet Elisha foreshadows the promise contains in the gospel for those who ‘welcome a prophet because he is a prophet’. A small room on the roof of the house, containing not only a bed, but also a table, a chair, and even a lamp. These basic gestures of hospitality offered simply out of respect for a man of God and with no thought of a reward receive in fact a wonderful reward. The following year they hold a son in their arms with her husband; author of life notices every little act we do and rewards them accordingly. Dear sisters and brothers, today as we earnestly pray for God’s mercy at the time of Corona Virus Pandemic, every little kind gesture means life giving. As I write this message there are 9,296,202 confirmed cases globally, 479,133 deaths (who 25 June, 2,25pm). Every one of you walking in the path of mercy and compassion and putting them into action has a great sense of comfort on the other end of a phone, call or gesture; especially, St Vincent de Paul in our parish rose to the occasion and were in a war footing to reach out to the needy. Day in and day out, it did not matter whether it was night or day adhering to the protocol given by govt and relevant served without hope of any return. Their leadership is praiseworthy and surly God will reward their generosity. I have my prayerful support unconditionally. Equally, In the parish, the parish leadership team and all of you, the parishioners walking extra miles and continue to do so to reach out one another in this time of pandemic; I believe, no help is small or great but equally important. Challenges are nothing comparing to the love that we have for Christ and his creation. But then have a glance at our newspapers or television screens makes clear that this was not simply a challenge for the first generations of today. Even many Christian communities where inter community divisions with a religious basis are intense has deeper relevance in today’s gospel of loving our own. The word of God challenges us to move out of our comfort zone and limitedness and calls to walk in the path of unconditional love of service without return. God knows we are comfortable in our skin. God is with us and welcomes us into play. One of the truly striking features of Matthew’s gospel is the sense of ‘Emmanuel – God with us’ which attends the presentation of Jesus from beginning to end. It comes to climax, of course, in the parable of the great Judgment in chapter 25, 31-46 where, over and over again, we hear the refrain, ‘as often as your did it (failed to do it) to the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it (or failed to do it) to me. Challenge before us is enormous: the stranger who stands before us comes not simply as an emissary and representative of Christ but the Father who sent Christ into the world. Dear sisters and brothers, St Paul stresses the radicality of the change effected in baptism: it is really a ‘death’ to an old existence dominated by selfishness and sin and an entrance into the world of the new creation inaugurated by the resurrection of Christ. There, in union with him, on ‘lives for God’ caught up in the rhythm of his self-sacrificial love. Today the whole creation stands as penitent and seeks God’s forgiveness and mercy at this time of Pandemic, Corona Virus, COVID-19. 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 Henk Hofsteenge and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Patrick Sweeney, Dorothy Dunn and Mary Hannan. The following measures will remain till further notice:
Silence before the Mass: GIRM 45 (2010) The parish Liturgy committee at its last meeting on 2nd of June 2020 recommends silence before Mass. The committee has put a slide on the powerpoint before Mass from Saturday 13th June. “Even before the celebration itself, it is a praiseworthy practice for silence to be observed in the Church, in the Sacristy, in the vesting room, and in adjacent areas, so that all may dispose themselves to carry out the sacred celebration in a devout and fitting manner.” Thank you Fr. Ephrem We would like to thank St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish in their response to COVID-19 by checking in with those who were isolated, vulnerable or in need of food support or essential items throughout the lockdown. We appreciate how they continue to “share God’s love” to those who are experiencing ongoing hardship and we encourage you to support them in any way you can. Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 Vinnie’s Shop Miramar needs more volunteers!! Have you got some time to spare? Do you want something worthwhile to get involved in? Why not volunteer at the Miramar Vinnie’s shop. Contact Cathie on 0278412268 This year, St Mary's College is holding open day tours for prospective families on Tuesday 30 June. There will be three time slots offered 11.30 am, 2pm, 4pm. The tours will be one hour with a maximum of 100. Whānau will be divided into small tour groups of 10 people each, with a maximum of three per whānau. Whānau will be required to register using schoolinterviews.co.nz. the booking code is 3te25 If your space is limited please ask them to visit our website stmw.school.nz A memorial Mass will be celebrated for Father Michael O’Dea in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of Sacred Heart Cathedral on Tuesday 7 July at 5.30pm with a time of remembering after in the foyer of the Cathedral. Michael died in the early hours of the morning on Sunday 17 May. A requiem Mass was celebrated on 20 May (Level 2 of lockdown) and he was buried at the Hawera Cemetery on Thursday 21 May. All are welcome to attend this Mass. Please RSVP to Tania Halliday t.halliday@wn.catholic.org.nz your attendance for catering purposes. Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience for couples intending to be married. Remaining weekends for 2020 are 18 & 19 July and 14 & 15 November. Venue is Otari Parish presbytery, 301 Karori Road, Karori, Wellington. Registrations close 2 weeks before. For more details go to the website http://www.cee-wellington.co.nz/ Phone Kate and Simon Olson. 04 801 6192 or email simonolsen@gmail.com Healing Service Fr John Rea sm will conduct a Healing Service at St Bernadette`s Church, 194 Naenae Rd, Naenae on Wednesday 8 July beginning at 7.30 pm. Please invite all who need Jesus` healing. All are welcome. Enquiries Ph 8198323. The Coast to Coast Rosary for Life and Faith will be held this year on Saturday 15th August at 3 pm. Please help lead or join a group in your parish or community. For more information, please go to www.coasttocoastrosary.co.nz or phone Clare 022 1912 886 SACRED HEART SCHOOL 125th CELEBRATIONS Sacred Heart School opened 125 years in North East Valley in October this year. A variety of functions have been put together to encourage past pupils, teachers and friends of the school to attend and celebrate this milestone at Labour Weekend 2020.If you’ve been associated with Sacred Heart School, you are invited to email your committee at reunion125@sacredheartdn.school.nz or phone the school on 03 473 8362. A Registration Form will be available for you to download soon. Sunday Coordinator. Working for the Catholic Parish of Christchurch West We need leaders who have energy, vision and creativity that want to work as a member of our Parish Senior Leadership Team to help all to live with and in the Spirit, for the Father. To apply, one must have an education in Catholic Theology, ability to plan or vision, desire to Evangelise, experience with a parish and/or diocese. It is a full time position. To apply for one of the vacancies (contact Christchurch West parish for further details), please send us your: • CV • a response to the Job Description (three – page limit) • a statement about your personal approach to ministry Applications can be sent to priest@stteresas.org.nz Please turn in all applications before July 11th, 2020 The June 28 – July 11 issue of NZ Catholic is out now. Some headlines are: Bishop Basil Meeking laid to rest. Principal joins coalition against legalising cannabis. Theological college considers new Auckland home. This planet, our home, after Covid-19. By loving humbly, serving freely and joyfully, we will offer to the world the true image of God. Pope Francis: Homily for Pentecost 2020 Parish Council Meeting: Wednesday 1st July 7.30pm Gascoigne Room St Anthony’s Church 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. Jer 20, 10-13; Rom 5, 12-15; Mat 10, 26-33 Be my witness Dear sisters and brothers, the whole chapter of Matthew brings together and sums up what Jesus has to say to his apostles about declaring his teaching in the face of hostility and persecution. In the first reading, God delivered the prophet Jeremiah from the deadly plots and hands of evil men. Our world is full of threats against the righteous and innocent, colour and creed, young and old. Hardly would a day pass without one hearing news of atrocities and violence. This is the cause of great fear for many, especially, for those whose trust is solely on this world rather than being in God. However, for those who like the prophet, Jeremiah realize that the Lord is on their side, God will surely not disappoint them. As a mighty hero, He will surely act. The threats and gravity of these terrors and fears might appear overwhelming. However, they are certainly not greater than what God has handled in the history of humanity. The second reading has a lot in common with the first. First, while the prophet was innocent of all the accusations and threats against him, humanity inherited death through the sin of disobedience of her progenitors (Adam and Eve). In a similar way, while God delivered the innocent prophet Jeremiah from the plots and terrors of his enemies; Paul recounts how Christ delivered humanity from the terrors and shackles of death. Thus, Paul draws our attention to a very important aspect of our salvation history. This is especially, with regards to the relationship between sin and death; and of course, the relationship between the consequences of Adam’s disobedience and that of Christ’s obedience. For, while Adam’s disobedience and sin brought us death, Christ’s obedience brought us life. Through his sacrificial death and obedience to his father’s will, He dissipated the fear that threaten our life and restored our peace. Thus, He delivered us from ruin due to the sin, and the fall of Adam and Eve. Jesus exhorts us: “Do not be afraid, for everything that is now covered will be uncovered.” This includes the plans of the evil ones who are always threatening to persecute and destroy the just. It suffices to note that, Christ knows that fear and the threat of death can paralyse one. As the Lord of the living and the dead, He knows that physical death is not the end. Rather, it is a transition to eternity. Hence, he further exhorts us: “Do not be afraid of those who can kill the body, but cannot kill the soul. Rather, fear him who can destroy both body and soul in hell fire.” In these comforting and assuring words of Christ, rest our hope and future as Christians: “Every hair on your head has been counted. So, there is no need to be afraid!” They simply indicate that the Lord is on our side. He is ready and capable to deliver us from both the consequences and harmful effects of sin, as well as from all the threats that we face in our daily life. Finally, all we need to do to merit the protection Christ promised us today, is simply to be on his side by trusting him. This, calls for being just and innocent in our ways and actions. It means being true Christians. Of course, it also means submitting completely to Christ, His witnesses. Peace be with you! Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially 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 and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Michalina Bogacki, Thomas (Tony) Hayes, Maurice Gunn, Eithne Williams and Margaret Scott. Prayer for the Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers to be said by everyone at the end of the prayers of the faithful. Lord God, Master of the Vineyard, Help us listen to the struggles of those who work hard to provide for their families but still have trouble making ends meet. Open our eyes to the struggles of those exploited and help us speak for just wages and safe conditions, the freedom to organize, and time for renewal. For work was made for humankind and not humankind for work. Let it not be a vehicle for exploitation but a radiant expression of our human dignity. Give all who labour listening hearts that we may pause from our work to receive your gift of rest. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that you might work through us to let your justice reign. Amen. Pandemic Mass on 27/28 June The parish council agreed to celebrate “DECREE on the Mass in Time of Pandemic” on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28 June 2020 at all three Masses next weekend. “In virtue of the faculties granted to it by the Supreme Pontiff FRANCIS, gives permission to celebrate the Mass in Times of Pandemic.” Prot. N. 156/20. May I request leaders of Choirs in the parish to take note and prepare accordingly. The following measures will remain till further notice:
Silence before the Mass: GIRM 45 (2010) The parish Liturgy committee at its last meeting on 2nd of June 2020 recommends silence before Mass. The committee has put a slide on the powerpoint before Mass from Saturday 13th June. “Even before the celebration itself, it is a praiseworthy practice for silence to be observed in the Church, in the Sacristy, in the vesting room, and in adjacent areas, so that all may dispose themselves to carry out the sacred celebration in a devout and fitting manner.” Thank you Fr. Ephrem Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish . In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are now experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is helping people in strict confidence if we hear who needs help, " following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society" . Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, do please arrange contact with Tina Quidilla, local SVDP Conference, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Also, if you wish to donate to your local Holy Trinity St Vincent de Paul group to purchase groceries, living essentials and student uniforms and items for 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 Vinnie’s Shop Miramar needs more volunteers!! Have you got some time to spare? Do you want something worthwhile to get involved in? Why not volunteer at the Miramar Vinnie’s shop. Contact Cathie on 0278412268 St Catherine’s College Open Night Thursday 25th June. Tours start at 6pm. BOOK A TOUR: https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/ CODE: tqnwc This year, St Mary's College is holding open day tours for prospective families on Tuesday 30 June. There will be three time slots offered 11.30 am, 2pm, 4pm. The tours will be one hour with a maximum of 100. Whānau will be divided into small tour groups of 10 people each, with a maximum of three per whānau. Whānau will be required to register using schoolinterviews.co.nz. the booking code is 3te25 If your space is limited please ask them to visit our website stmw.school.nz A memorial Mass will be celebrated for Father Michael O’Dea in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of Sacred Heart Cathedral on Tuesday 7 July at 5.30pm with a time of remembering after in the foyer of the Cathedral. Michael died in the early hours of the morning on Sunday 17 May. A requiem Mass was celebrated on 20 May (Level 2 of lockdown) and he was buried at the Hawera Cemetery on Thursday 21 May. All are welcome to attend this Mass. Please RSVP to Tania Halliday t.halliday@wn.catholic.org.nz your attendance for catering purposes. In today’s world, messages multiply but the practice of listening is being lost. Yet it is only through humble and attentive listening that we can truly be reconciled. In 2020, silence has reigned for weeks in our streets. A dramatic and troubling silence, but one that has given us the opportunity to listen to the plea of the vulnerable, the displaced and our seriously ill planet. Pope Francis: Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2020 Prison Chaplain for Rimutaka and Arohata prisons We are seeking to employ a suitably qualified person to work as a member of the Prison Chaplaincy Services Aotearoa New Zealand Chaplaincy Team, which delivers Ecumenical Chaplaincy services to persons in prison at Rimutaka and Arohata. The Position is a permanent position of 37.5 hours per week. The Catholic Prison Chaplaincy service is a separate but integrated ministry which promotes and shares the Gospel message, provides for the celebration of the Sacraments, pastoral care, counsel and support. The person we are looking for will come from a committed Catholic ministry background, have undertaken ongoing formation and had at least two years of pastoral ministry. For a copy of the role description and application forms for this vacancy, please email: reception@wn.catholic.org.nz . Please send your completed application forms, cover letter and CV to Karen Holland at: reception@wn.catholic.org.nz Quote for the Year of Mission: 1 Corinthians 3: 6 “I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. Mid winter Christmas – 12 days of light in the darkness. 21 June – 2 July Light up your neighbourhood with love. This is an iniative by the combined churches of the Miramar Peninsula. https://www.midwinterchristmas.nz/facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwinterchristmas.nz instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwinterchristmas.nz/ Holy Hour You are invited to a Holy Hour on Tuesday 23 June beginning at 7.30 pm in the Cathedral chapel to pray for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. This Holy Hour will include prayers, Scripture, singing, times of silence and conclude with Benediction followed by supper. Engaged Encounter is a weekend experience for couples intending to be married. Remaining weekends for 2020 are 18 & 19 July and 14 & 15 November. Venue is Otari Parish presbytery, 301 Karori Road, Karori, Wellington. Registrations close 2 weeks before. For more details go to the website http://www.cee-wellington.co.nz/ Phone Kate and Simon Olson. 04 801 6192 or email simonolsen@gmail.com Healing Service Fr John Rea sm will conduct a Healing Service at St Bernadette`s Church, 194 Naenae Rd, Naenae on Wednesday 8 July beginning at 7.30 pm. Please invite all who need Jesus` healing. All are welcome. Enquiries Ph 8198323. Parish Finances During Lockdown some people were able to change to Automatic Payments OR on-line banking for donations to support the parish. The Finance Committee encourages you to sign up for APs or to donate on-line if possible as it is a safe way and also cuts down work for the few counters that we have and for Marianne in the parish office. Our details: HOLY TRINITY PARISH BNZ BANK ACC 02-0536-0185031-000 Use your surname and/or envelope number as a reference. Or for further detail contact the parish office: holytrinity.wgtn@xtra.co.nz For the next while there will be no collection at our Masses but we have monitored donation boxes at each church for those who wish to donate using their planned giving envelopes or cash. Thank you for your ongoing support. Food Bank Donation Baskets These are now back in our Churches. Every little contribution you can make is gratefully received. “He has told you, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6: 8 Strange Times Our world is in a sad situation. Including unjust practices by Governments and Institutions, protests by thousands across the globe, illness, starvation, poverty, major ecological challenges impacting on communities and environments, millions fleeing their homelands and being killed or detained with little hope of a safe future. In our prayers and in our actions we can show solidarity and sometimes support. Lord, give your people your peace that we may shine brightly in today’s dark world. Grant us the courage to live faithfully even in the midst of hard times. May our faith in you and the innate good of humankind be the strengthening of wisdom and courage in us, rather than allowing fear of the world to drive our actions.Help us to live fully in the midst of a world that needs to know you. Show your mercy and heal those who are suffering in your fallen creation. Most of all Lord, strengthen us to work to restore the world you have made and to make all things new. We pray that your will would be done through our actions. We ask this through Christ, your son. AMEN “I have always been distressed at the lot of those who are victims of various kinds of human trafficking. How I wish that all of us would hear God’s cry, ‘Where is your brother?’ (Gen 4:9). Where is your brother or sister who is enslaved? Let us not pretend and look the other way. There is greater complicity than we think. This issue involves everyone!” Pope Francis, 2013, Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium The New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference promotes a special Day of Prayer for Refugees and Migrants on the Sunday closest to the World Refugee Day on 20 June. This year it falls on Sunday 21 June 2020, which is the twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. The theme, “Where is your brother or sister?”, was taken from Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium where he speaks of his distress about the various forms of human trafficking. He quotes the book of Genesis and challenges us not to look the other way but to recognize our migrant brothers and sisters who are experiencing exploitation. Migrants and refugees are part of our community, but they may not always be seen or heard. This theme is particularly topical given the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, as migrant communities will be among the most vulnerable to the impacts. With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the economy worldwide, here in New Zealand, the government has been quick to offer emergency benefits to New Zealanders – however one big chunk of the workforce who are missing out are migrant workers. In New Zealand, about one in ten of the workforce is an overseas worker on a temporary visa1. With fragile visa situations, unfamiliarity with the culture and language, and the pressure to financially provide for family back in their homeland, losing their job or their income makes them the most vulnerable for worker exploitation. Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, migrant worker exploitation had been a serious problem that even the government had acknowledged by holding a review: www.mbie.govt.nz/immigration-and-tourism/immigration/temporary-migrant-workerexploitation-review. Pope Francis has always seen the importance of this issue, in all its forms. In 2017, the Migrants & Refugees (M&R) Section was established by Pope Francis himself and tasked to address human trafficking as well as migrant and refugee matters. In 2018, the M&R Section held consultations with Church leaders, scholars, and organisations working in the field, to address trafficking. A resource for dioceses, parishes, and schools was put together and can be found on their website: migrants-refugees.va. Pope Francis acknowledges that the task of overcoming human exploitation takes “courage, patience and perseverance”, but it is a task that we all must take part in. He challenges us “to open our eyes, to see the misery of those who are completely deprived of their dignity and their freedom, and to hear their cry for help.” ______________________________ 1 RNZ. (2020, April 30). Covid-19: Jobless immigrants face poverty, deportation, exploitation- immigration adviser. Retrieved from https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/415473/covid-19-jobless-immigrants-face-poverty-deportation-exploitation-immigration-adviser A bridge for migrant workers during the COVID-19 lockdown The COVID-19 pandemic has brought uncertainty across the world and Aotearoa, but especially to the temporary migrant workers in our community. The Filipino Chaplaincy of the Archdiocese of Wellington quickly realised this and wanted to reach out and help. Outreach Ministry Head, Jofferson Gonzales said, ”We understood that there would be people who won’t be able to go to shops, or new migrants who are anxious and confused about the information from government, and may not be familiar with how things work in New Zealand.” “Migrant workers won’t complain but it was our role to listen and help voice their concerns,” said Joey Domdom, one of the chaplaincy’s ministry heads. “They’re exploited in systems that are clearly taking advantage of them and the lockdown showed how disadvantaged they were.” The chaplaincy’s goal is to help Filipino migrants become a part of the local Church community in Aotearoa. Knowing that they would be hesitant to ask for help, the chaplaincy did a round of phone calls to temporary migrant workers that they knew of to ask how they were, how they could help, or just to be a listening ear. They worked with Catholic Social Services and Challenge 2000 to dispatch goods, like food and winter clothing, to their migrant brothers and sisters. “Our role was to identify these vulnerable people and their needs, and to become a link to other church agencies who had the supplies and were capable of doing the legwork – we sort of became like a bridge,” Gonzales said. When asked what our parish communities could do, Domdom replied with a simple suggestion - just start a conversation. “Just be aware of the migrant workers in our community. Ask them how they are; how is their work; how is their family back home?” This is precisely what Pope Francis was implying when he said, “Who is your brother or sister?” 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. The following measures will remain in till further notice:
Deu 8, 2-3. 14-16; 1 Cor 10, 16-17; Jn 6, 51-58 My flesh is real food and my blood is real drink Dear sisters and brothers, today we gather in the house of the Lord with trust and confidence. Today we celebrate the wonderful Sacrament, the sacred mystery of the Body and Blood of Christ, the means of our salvation. Dear friends, I would like to congratulate all of you for being so patient and obedient to all the directions from government and church authorities given to you in the present time. It is never an easy thing to do for each one of us, but we did it together. This is a new chapter in our life. Let us continue to grow in our new spiritual adventures we have acquired. Surf the parish web pages and you will find some more adventures, the celebration of Mid-Winter-Christmas produced by Eastern Suburbs pastors association. 1st Reading recalls God’s infinitive love and care for Israelites, leading them through desert to the Promised Land. He fed them ‘bread from heaven’, and that has become the model for the Eucharistic bread. The manna became the symbol and reminder of God’s unfailing care for his people throughout their journey, just as the Eucharist is the expression of God’s care for his people today. St Paul, in writing to that difficult and divided community at Corinth, chides them for their disunity and selfishness. In the strongest terms Paul insists that the Eucharist must be the symbol and expression of unity, and that those who prevent it being so are making themselves ‘answerable for the body and blood of the Lord’. This passage from John’s gospel is the last of the Bread of life discourse. It moves on from seeing Christ as the wisdom of God, who must be accepted and believed, to the sacrament of eating the bread of life. These correspond to the two halves of the Mass, first the service of the Word, then the Eucharistic banquet. We are all so diet-conscious nowadays that it is quite obvious that the food we eat affects us. By eating Christ we are assimilated into him. But here is a catch, ‘just as, if I am sick, food does me no good and can even harm me, so if I eat Christ Sacramentally without wanting to be moulded into him, is does me no good at all. Blood is the sign of life and if there is no blood there is no life. So dear sisters and brothers, reception of the sacrament of body and blood of Christ is accepting God’s divine life, the divine gift within us. We all live with the same life’s blood. Do I really share my life, my talents, my goods with others knowing that I share the same bloodstream? Fr Ephrem Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially 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 and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Hilikia Lefao, Marcella (Colleen) O’Donovan and Patricia Galvin. Vinnie’s Shop Miramar needs more volunteers!! Have you got some time to spare? Why not volunteer at the Miramar Vinnie’s shop. Contact Cathie on 0278412268 2020 Open Day at St Patrick’s College WELLINGTON Open Day is a chance for parents of Year 8 students to visit our College and learn about the opportunities and experiences that we offer across Years 9-13. Due to the 100 person gathering limit we have changed our Open Day format this year from one large gathering to a number of smaller groups who will meet our Rector and receive a tour of the College. To attend an Open Day1 hour tour of the College, bookings are essential. For COVID-19 contract tracing purposes we will require your contact details when you make your booking. How to Book a College Tour: Please make a booking by phoning the College on 939 3070 and advising which of the six tour options you would prefer: Tuesday 16 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm Thursday 18 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm Friday 19 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm St Catherine’s College Open Night Thursday 25th June. Tours start at 6pm. BOOK A TOUR: https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/ CODE: tqnwc This year, St Mary's College is holding open day tours for prospective families on Tuesday 30 June. There will be three time slots offered 11.30 am, 2pm, 4pm. The tours will be one hour with a maximum of 100. Whānau will be divided into small tour groups of 10 people each, with a maximum of three per whānau. Whānau will be required to register using schoolinterviews.co.nz. the booking code is 3te25 If your space is limited please ask them to visit our website stmw.school.nz Mid winter Christmas – 12 days of light in the darkness. 21 June – 2 July Light up your neighbourhood with love. This is an iniative by the combined churches of the Miramar Peninsula. During the 12 days we are encouraging our neighbours on the Peninsula to place a Christmas tree in their street-facing windows, and to light them up for the 12 days from Sunday 21 June (the shortest day) to Thursday July 2nd. Each day we will provide ideas for family fun, ways to bless your neighbours, and a range of opportunities to engage in conversation and contemplation. Our hope is to bring community spirit to our neighbourhoods, to produce an outpouring of practical support and love to those who are struggling in the midst of the covid-19 pandemic, and to engage our neighbours in meaningful conversations based on the traditional christmas themes. Why a mid-winter Christmas? Well firstly, it’s fun! We love that! But also, Christmas is the time we remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus. We believe that in Jesus, God is revealed to us, not as one who is distant from us in our sorrows and pain, but as one who comes to us, entering into our suffering, to redeem it through his. He is the “light that enters the darkness”. This was good news 2000 years ago and we believe it’s good news today as we contemplate deeper questions of life in the midst of a global pandemic. Whatever your faith, we hope these 12 days will create joyful memories for your family, a greater connection with your neighbours, and rich and meaningful conversations. Website: https://www.midwinterchristmas.nz/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwinterchristmas.nz instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwinterchristmas.nz/ Joshua is on again. Come and enjoy fellowship with other men and share your Lockdown stories on Thursday 18th June 2020 at 7:30pm (Note: fellowship from 7:00pm for 7:30pm start) In CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the closed Sacred Heart Cathedral). Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com The Eucharist is not a sacrament “for me”; it is the sacrament of the many, who form one body, God’s holy and faithful people… The Eucharist is the sacrament of unity. Whoever receives it cannot fail to be a builder of unity, because building unity has become part of his or her “spiritual DNA”. Pope Francis, Feast of Corpus Christi 2017 NZ Catholic available online at the following link https://indd.adobe.com/view/b3afc3f1-9e7a-4f50-bdf9-d5783300bd46 Dean sought for newly formed Te Kupenga Catholic Theological College The newly formed Te Kupenga Catholic Theological College is seeking a highly qualified Dean to be its Auckland- based academic face and voice. Te Kupenga is casting its net locally and internationally for the dean, who will lead the college, established on 1 January by a merger between the two Catholic tertiary education providers – Good Shepherd College in Auckland and The Catholic Insitute of Aotearoa New Zealand (TCI). The college itself is part of the new umbrella organisation Te Kupenga Catholic Leadership Institute, also formed on 1 January.Te Kupenga (The Net) has three operating units – Te Kupenga Catholic Theological College (for tertiary courses and qualifications),the National Centre for Religious Studies, and the Nathaniel Centre for Catholic Bioethics. Te Kupenga Chief Executive Dr Areti Metuamate said the new dean would build on past work to ensure there was an integrated, academically sound and high - performing community of scholars.“ This academic community will be central to achieving the Bishops’ vision for skilled and collaborative education, leadership, ministry, witness and voice in and from the New Zealand Catholic Church,” said Dr Metuamate.“ The Dean will be the academic face and voice for the Catholic Theological College and will need a high level of personal credibility and academic reputation.” Interested applicants can look at the position description and find contact details for Dr Metuamate at this link: www.catholic.org.nz/assets/Uploads/Dean-CTC-role- description-01062020.pdf Prison Chaplain for Rimutaka and Arohata prisons We are seeking to employ a suitably qualified person to work as a member of the Prison Chaplaincy Services Aotearoa New Zealand Chaplaincy Team, which delivers Ecumenical Chaplaincy services to persons in prison at Rimutaka and Arohata. The Position is a permanent position of 37.5 hours per week. The Catholic Prison Chaplaincy service is a separate but integrated ministry which promotes and shares the Gospel message, provides for the celebration of the Sacraments, pastoral care, counsel and support. The person we are looking for will come from a committed Catholic ministry background, have undertaken ongoing formation and had at least two years of pastoral ministry. For a copy of the role description and application forms for this vacancy, please email: reception@wn.catholic.org.nz . Please send your completed application forms, cover letter and CV to Karen Holland at: reception@wn.catholic.org.nz Yes - we are back to our new normal for now! But each of us needs to be responsible and thoughtful, not just for ourselves, our families and friends, but also for those who may be at risk health-wise. Alert Level 1 - this means the risk of COVID-19 has been managed.While there are no restrictions at Alert Level 1, Public Health advice is:
Advice for at-risk people - Ministry of Health advice for at-risk people(external link) People with underlying medical conditions, especially if not well-controlled, and some older people are at higher-risk of severe illness from COVID-19. At all Alert Levels, when you leave the house you should maintain physical distancing and good hygiene practices. Keep in touch with your GP or specialist if you need advice regarding your level of risk. Continue to access care for your condition. The Golden Rules for everyone at Alert Level 1
PRAYING WITH GRATITUDE One of the forms of personal or family prayer is gratitude or thankfulness. Sometimes the simple or mundane things in our lives are not appreciated - an example, the everyday meals we consume or care given. In an article Table Grace in a World Struggling with Climate Change by Willard Metzger, are some ideas for what we used to call, grace before meals and a reminder of the interrelatedness of things in our lives. Without you, oh Lord, there is no fullness of life. You have created the earth and all its fullness. By it we are fed and nourished. Forgive us when we see ourselves as the centre of all life, and neglect our responsibility to care for the rest of life. In gratitude for this food, help us care for all the earth, that we may bring you fullness of joy. AMEN This food does not come to us without cost. It comes to us through human effort – and we are thankful. But even more so, this food comes to us as a gift of the earth. Creation has given itself so that our lives can be sustained – and we are thankful. In our gratitude, oh God, we acknowledge the true cost of this food. In our worship of you, help us renew our commitment to care for the earth. AMEN All we have is what you have given us, Lord. Life is a gift. Food is a gift. This earth is a gift. Help us live lives that express our gratitude for all your gifts – life, food, and the beauty of this earth. AMEN Loving God, in your wisdom, you have made us dependent on our environment. Our well-being is linked to the health of the earth. Without you, oh God, we have no hope. And without a healthy environment, we have no future here. In humble recognition of our need, we receive this meal with thanksgiving, and respect our environment in praise. Keep our bodies strong and our environment healthy, so both will bring you praise. Amen. 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. Readings: Ex 34, 4-6. 8-9; 2 Cor 13, 11-13; John 3, 16-18. The Lord, is a God of tenderness and compassion After successfully completing a few months of Easter experience in a locked room, the Ascension of Christ into heaven opened the door of heaven. The Holy Spirit then rushed to us as if He got us back in his home like the prodigal son. Today God bestows singular grace to us that the complete God head fills his presence amidst us with kindness and compassion beyond all telling. Moses encounters God’s kindness, compassion, tenderness and faithfulness at Sinai in good times and bad times with Israelites. What Moses and Israelites experienced and gone through is tremendous and their whole life was guided by it. For them it was miss and hit the presence of God. May I have an opportunity to explore the loving relationship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are eternally one in their loving relationship. It is the Spirit the Lord Comes down and takes flesh in the womb of Virgin Mary, the word brought by the angel. When Mary raised her concern, the angel said to her, “the Spirit of the Lord will overshadow you and you will conceive and bear a son and will name him Jesus.” God the Father in His tender compassion becomes one of you and me. He is a tremendous lover of you and me. In His love he is moved with compassion to be with us in our weakness and sickness. So that we may stand up and be counted to His love in response. Now this Son who was born by the will of God, overshadowed by the Holy Spirit; now after his resurrection as promised returns to his Fatherhood to send the Holy Spirit to be with us always. God continues to raise his people after his heart in every age, and in our age too. Andrea Tornielli records his conversation with Pope Francis in a book, “The name of God is Mercy.” Pope Francis visiting the prison in Palmasola, Bolivia, 2015 made a profound statement about himself saying, “standing before you is a man who has been forgiven for his many sins …” It is truly striking to hear a pope say these things about himself. He has experience God’s mercy; he has seen God’s mercy in action through other people and their life changed for good. 1) We need to respect ourselves and respect others. Our conviction that the Triune God is present within us always should help us to esteem ourselves as God’s holy dwelling place, to behave well in His holy presence, and to lead purer and holier lives, practicing acts of justice and charity. This Triune Presence should also encourage us to respect and honour others as "Temples of the Holy Spirit." 2) We need to be aware of God as the Source of our strength and courage. The awareness and conviction of the presence of God within us gives us the strength to face the manifold problems of life with Christian courage. It was such a conviction that prompted the early Christian martyrs being taken to their execution to shout the heroic prayer of Faith from the Psalms: "The Lord of might is with us, our God is within us, and the God of Jacob is our helper" (Psalm 46). 3) We need to see the Trinity as the model for our Christian families: We are created in love to be a community of loving persons, just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united in Love. From the day of our Baptism, we have belonged to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. How privileged we are to grow up in such a beautiful Family! Hence, let us turn to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in prayer every day. We belong to the Family of the Triune God. The love, unity and joy in the relationship among the Father, Son and Holy Spirit should be the supreme model of our relationships within our Christian families. Our families become truly Christian when we live in a relationship of love with God and with others. 4) We are called to become more like the Triune God through all our relationships. We are made in God’s image and likeness. Just as God is God only in a Trinitarian relationship, so we can be fully human only as one member of a relationship of three partners. The self needs to be in a horizontal relationship with all other people and in a vertical relationship with God. In that way our life becomes Trinitarian like that of God. Modern society follows the so-called “I-and-I” principle of unbridled individualism and the resulting consumerism. But the doctrine of the Blessed Trinity challenges us to adopt an "I-and-God-and-neighbour" principle: “I am a Christian insofar as I live in a relationship of love with God and with other people.” Like God the Father, we are called upon to be productive and creative persons by contributing to the building up of the fabric of life and love in our family, our Church, our community and our nation. Like God the Son, we are called upon to reconcile, to be peacemakers, to put back together that which has been broken, to restore what has been shattered. Like God the Holy Spirit, it is our task to uncover and teach truth and to dispel ignorance. (Trinitarian spirituality: Fr Ephrem Fr Ephrem is offering Mass every weekday from the prayer room in the presbytery at the following times Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri 9.30am Thurs 7pm To join him live go to his Facebook page (Ephrem Tigga) If you would like Fr to offer Mass for yourself or a loved one, please contact the office by either phone or email Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially 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 and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Brendan Murray, Ngaire Durkin, Stjepan Kuzmicich, Brian Vincent and Patricia Reynolds. We also remember our leaders and all those involved in providing essential services. Heading towards Alert Level 1 MOVING BEYOND Interesting news that anytime soon we should be moving into Alert Level 1. Regardless, the Ministry of Health is still recommending ongoing care with hygiene and behaviours when out in public and at gatherings, especially among people who may be unknown to you. While it does look like the virus may be contained, we have to have regard for those with health issues and compromised immunity, as well as other at risk groups and individuals! We will update you on what Alert Level 1 means for us regarding use of our Churches as soon as the situation becomes clearer. Here’s hoping that so many of the kind and caring contacts and activities that many people have been undertaking over past months in the parish and wider community will continue in some way as we move into our Winter months and beyond. Our St Vincent de Paul Society members are continuing their good works so here’s an update from them and a reminder of their details should you wish to help in anyway: In our local eastern suburbs communities, many families are experiencing ongoing hardship from COVID-19, such as going short of food, losing their job, cut backs in hours of work, digging into savings, debt, and difficulty clothing and equipping kids back at school. Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Your SVDP Conference in Holy Trinity Parish is here to help in strict confidence if we know who needs help, "following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society". Should you know of any households in need of emergency food, winter bedding, clothing items or simple friendly support, please make contact with Tina Quidilla, SVDP 021 159 2412, OR cquidilla@xtra.co.nz KEEP PRAYING and REFLECTING Most of the links to online resources, including Masses, provided in our newsletter in previous weeks are still available. Including daily Mass: with Fr Ephrem: https://www.facebook.com/fretigga from Christchurch: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbDyKPjjDeYWfpoz_hSDLfw In addition, here is an interesting piece for some reading and reflection from our Vicar General, Msgr Gerard Burns: https://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/adw_community/pandemic-and-religious-freedom/ Also an article from Mary Thorne in the current Tui Motu magazine: https://tuimotu.org/a/jJyK8A9 Plus much great reading (including an article by Fr Joe Grayland) in Welcom, our Archdiocesan newspaper online at: https://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/adw_welcom/welcom-june-2020-issue-383/ An app, Bread for Today, developed by the Redemptorists, has a daily topical reflection. Available from the App store or Google play. Friday 5.June was World Environment Day with the theme for 2020 being “Celebrate Biodiversity”. According to a United Nations report on biodiversity last year, around one million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction in the coming decades. Loss of biodiversity has significant impacts on ecosystems, nutrition, livelihoods, and even health. UN also state: "Recent events, from bushfires in Brazil, the United States, and Australia to locust infestations across East Africa – and now, a global disease pandemic – demonstrate the interdependence of humans and the webs of life, in which they exist.” See too: https://www.who.int/globalchange/ecosystems/biodiversity/en/ This is another reminder to think again about our response to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si. This link is to an Ignatian Examen on Reconciling God, Creation and Humanity. It’s very good. http://www.ecologicalexamen.org/ “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) Thank you for your ongoing financial support for the parish over past weeks. A number of parishioners have moved to Automatic Payments or online giving. From this Sunday and onwards there will be a donation box inside the Church for your offering. There will be no collection or procession during Mass. 2020 Open Day at St Patrick’s College WELLINGTON Open Day is a chance for parents of Year 8 students to visit our College and learn about the opportunities and experiences that we offer across Years 9-13. Due to the 100 person gathering limit we have changed our Open Day format this year from one large gathering to a number of smaller groups who will meet our Rector and receive a tour of the College. To attend an Open Day1 hour tour of the College, bookings are essential. For COVID-19 contract tracing purposes we will require your contact details when you make your booking. How to Book a College Tour: Please make a booking by phoning the College on 939 3070 and advising which of the six tour options you would prefer: Tuesday 16 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm Thursday 18 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm Friday 19 June 11.30am–12.30pm OR 12.30pm–1.30pm St Catherine’s College Open Night Thursday 25th June. Tours start at 6pm. BOOK A TOUR: https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/ CODE: tqnwc St Mary’s College Open Day Tuesday 30 June For more information see the St Mary's College Website:stmw.school.nz. Enrolments are open for more information email: office@stmw.school.nz Science Laboratory Technician St Mary’s College is seeking a highly organised, reliable lab technician who shows initiative, works well independently and with others in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The position requires a mix of practical and administrative tasks completed on a daily basis. Chemistry Lab experience is essential. The job involves purchasing and preparing chemicals as well as maintenance and preparation of science resources to be used in labs and classrooms. An understanding of the Guidance to the Code of practice for School Exempt Laboratories, 2016, and current health and safety standards is an advantage. The position is part-time, in school term-time only, for 20 hours per week. Remuneration is aligned with the NZEI Support Staff in Schools’ Collective Agreement and dependent on the candidates background and experience. Upholding the special character of St Mary’s College as a catholic mercy college and being able to work collaboratively as part of our high performing Sciences team. Applications close Friday 12 June 2020 at 12 noon.Please send a letter of application and your C.V. to principal@stmw.school.nz with a cc to Head of Science, Trevor Keough at trevor.keough@stmw.school.nz Learner Support Assistant St Mary's College is seeking a self motivated well organised Learner Support Assistant who shows initiative, works well independently and with others in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. You will need to be able to relate to young people and have an enthusiasum for teaching and learning. Previous experience in this type of role would be an advantage. This position is a part time fixed term position for 20 hours per week starting in term 2 and finishing in term 4. Renumeration is aligned with the NZEI Support Staff in Schools' Collective Agreement and dependent on the candidates background and experience. The successful applicant will be supportive of the special character of St Mary's College as a catholic mercy college. Applications close Friday 12 June at 12 noon. Please send your cover letter and C.V. to Meg Doile by emailing meg.doile@stmw.school.nz Joshua is on again. Come and enjoy fellowship with other men and share your Lockdown stories on Thursday 18th June 2020 at 7:30pm (Note: fellowship from 7:00pm for 7:30pm start) In CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind the closed Sacred Heart Cathedral). Want to know more? Ring Steve Ready 027-356-9555 or email: joshua.wgtn@gmail.com Understanding what God is saying to us at this time of pandemic also represents a challenge for the Church’s mission. Illness, suffering, fear and isolation challenge us. The poverty of those who die alone, the abandoned, those who have lost their jobs and income, the homeless and those who lack food challenge us… The impossibility of gathering as a Church to celebrate the Eucharist has led us to share the experience of the many Christian communities that cannot celebrate Mass every Sunday. In all of this, God’s question: “Whom shall I send?” is addressed once more to us and awaits a generous and convincing response: “Here am I, send me!” Pope Francis: Message for World Mission Day 2020 Wellington Regional Children’s Hospital PJ Appeal online. Wellington Regional Children’s Hospital is still running its annual PJ appeal for children who arrive without pyjamas. However, they cannot accept drop-off s of physical PJs because of their strict visitor policy but you can donate online to Hospi’s Virtual Jammies in June Appeal at www. hospi.org.nz, There is always a signifi cant increase in the number of children admitted to hospital in winter, and the community nursing teams also fi nd children in homes that are often cold and damp, raising the risk of asthma and other respiratory infections. And right now, many Kiwi families in our region face an uncertain fi nancial future, and there may be little leftover money to spend on extras like warm PJs. 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. Important information for participation in Parish Masses, commencing on 6 & 7 June: All members of Holy Trinity Parish can rejoice, as the New Zealand Catholic Bishops have said, that we are able to take these first steps towards returning to some semblance of normality. The Parish Pastoral Council has carefully considered the advice of the Bishops in establishing protocols and practices that will enable us to safely recommence Sunday worship, through a Vigil Mass and two Sunday morning Masses. Our start date coincides with the Feast of the Holy Trinity, on 6 & 7 June. Here are the protocols that apply during Alert Level 2 (the Council acknowledges that they may seem severe, but these are the Ministry of Health requirements, as applied by the Bishops and to our Parish circumstances):
If you have not already registered for Mass attendance or to volunteer, please do so now by clicking on this link https://forms.gle/d3qFRao9beKh6Xz6A or contact the Parish Office (holytrinity.wgtn@xtra.co.nz ; 04 388 6953). Please help anyone you know without access to the internet; with their permission, you can register them. Acts 2, 1-11; 1 Cor 12, 3-7. 12-13; Jn 20, 19-23 A Promised Fulfilled: The Spirit Of The Lord Is Upon Us! Today we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. After a period of fifty days of rejoicing over the resurrection of Christ, we have come to the definitive end of Easter Season. Pentecost is a feast which occupies a very important and prominent position in the Church’s history and liturgical calendar. This is because it serves as the bridge between Lenten/Easter Season and Ordinary Time of the year. A great number of scholars have suggested that the feast of Pentecost marks the beginning of the church. Today marks the actual beginning of the church’s missionary endeavour. Given this, what we celebrate today is equally the birthday of the Holy Mother Church. So it suffices to say, happy birthday to all the faithful! The principal actors or agents in today’s celebration include the Lord who today has fulfilled his promise, the Holy Spirit who has heard the voice of Jesus and made himself available, and finally, all believers who with open minds and hearts have welcomed the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we celebrate today a great feast, when Christ filled and equipped his church with the power of his Spirit and sent us out into the world to bring peace, unity, joy, forgiveness, love and eternal life to all humankind. The first reading of this Sunday tells the story of how Christ eventually fulfilled his promise to his disciples who faithfully heeded the injunction, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the advocate comes” (Acts 1, 5). Therefore, today’s celebration is that of a promise fulfilled, and the reward of faithful obedience and steadfastness in prayer. Like the early disciples, every true believer has been empowered specially by the Holy Spirit. We have been refilled with a new unction for function and therefore, must like them also, welcome and appreciate the various gifts made available to us by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Dear sisters and brothers, one must be careful in exercising or claiming to have received this gift by fabricating and learning all forms of “junk and mock speeches” that cannot be understood, interpreted or explained by anyone. The danger inherent in this is, sinning against the Holy Spirit. We must note Jesus’ warning: “Any sin against the Son will be forgiven but…against the Holy Spirit will not” (Mt 12, 31-32). It is important therefore that we grasp very well Paul’s teachings on the issue of gifts and speaking in tongues in Cor 12 and 14. It is a gratuitous gift from God and does not come through learning and practicing. It was not given to them to boost their ego, for their own personal or selfish interests, or to break away and found their own Churches. Instead, it was given to them to pass on the message of eternal life on to others. In the second reading of today, Paul makes a very important statement: “No one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ unless he is under the influence of the Holy Spirit.” What this means is that it is God himself that enables us through the gifts we received today to recognize the lordship of Christ, as Christ equally tells us: “No one comes to me except the Father draws him” (Jh 6, 44). Recognizing the lordship of Christ is one task that was very difficult for Satan the tempter, because, he was without the Holy Spirit. The obvious fact is that when Paul uses the phrase “say Jesus is Lord”, he is not simply referring to the literary pronouncement of the lordship of Jesus as one could easily pay lip service to it. Instead, what Paul means by “say” here is, making Jesus the Lord of one’s life. The spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Rom 8, 15-16). In the gospel we see the synergy of the Trinitarian God in action, each doing and completing His action. They operated as though they were involved in a relay race where each hands over the baton to the other. However, in spite of this hand over, none of them becomes passive. To say others are passive at a time could amount to one falling victim to the heresy of millenarianism as did Joachim of Fiona who thought that there were three eras, each dominated by a particular member of the Trinity while others went to bed or into passivity. Jesus says “as the Father sent me so I am sending you, receive the Holy Spirit.” The Holy Spirit we received today has in no way come to replace Christ. Rather, as he was with Christ, He has come to help us achieve what he helped Christ achieve. For example he has come to help us forgive the sins of one another, for without his aid we can do this. This is why having breathed the Spirit on his disciples, Jesus commissioned them as ministers of the Sacrament of Penance, “…whoever sins you forgive are forgiven…” This day therefore, the Spirit we have received commissions and empowers us to move out in full force yet, with wisdom and gentility in order to testify to the lordship of Christ. Today we have a new Pentecost. Let us therefore beckon on the Lord: “Send forth your spirit O Lord and renew the face of the earth. Fr Ephrem Pray Rosary: Month of May: within the cycle of a year, the Church unfolds the whole of the mystery of Christ, from his incarnation and birth until his ascension, the day of Pentecost, and the expectation of blessed hope and of the Lord’s return … In celebrating this annual cycle of Christ’s mysteries, the Church honours with special love Mary, the Blessed Mother of God, who is joined by an inseparable bond to the saving work of her Son. In her the Church holds up and admires the most excellent effect of the redemption and joyfully contemplates, as in a flawless image, that which the Church itself desires and hopes wholly to be (SC 102 & 103). May I call you to reflect our redemption through Rosary with Mother Mary in this holy month of May. Fr Ephrem is offering Mass every day from the prayer room in the presbytery at the following times Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri, Sat 9.30am Thurs 7pm Sunday 10.30am To join him live go to his Facebook page (Ephrem Tigga) If you would like Fr to offer Mass for yourself or a loved one, please contact the office by either phone or email Let us pray for all those who are unwell especially 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 Michael Lynch and those whose anniversaries occur around this time; Ricky Popple, Matthew Manion and Margot Chrustowski. We also remember our leaders and all those involved in providing essential services. Covid 19 - St Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity Parish. our Holy Trinity SVDP Conference continues to reach out to many local people, within and outside our parish in the eastern suburbs, who may be isolated or vulnerable at this difficult time. 180 homes have been phoned or attempted to phone over the lockdown, following Jesus present amongst those who suffer or may be excluded from society. Should you know of any others who would appreciate a phone call or are in need of emergency food or winter bedding support, please contact: Tina Quidilla SVDP, ph 021 159 2412, email: cquidilla@xtra.co.nz Do please continue to keep the sick, lonely, poor and marginalised in your prayers. Blessings to all callers, carers and helpers. Brendan Quirk, St Vincent de Paul Conference, Holy Trinity Parish. Here is a link to the fifth digital edition of NZ Catholic. I have also attached a cover graphic. Please share and forward as widely as you can. https://indd.adobe.com/view/23d41d66-f30e-439b-83e0-95cf162f4fdd Masses available on Television: Free to air telecast Shine TV Freeview channel 25, Sky Channel 201 Sundays – 2pm The Sunday Mass on Shine TV Channel 25 from Auckland Diocese has been warmly received around New Zealand by Catholics who don't have an internet connection to watch an Online Mass, and by many others, including people who were unable to go to Mass for health and other reasons even before Covid-19 stopped public Mass celebrations. Bishop Pat says: "Shine TV is now offering us a 45-minute slot (rather than 30 minutes) and have been impressed by the number of viewers which the broadcast Masses have been attracting. Perhaps this is one of the unexpected fruits of the pandemic experience?" Check the website: https://www.shinetv.co.nz/ St Catherine’s College Open Night Thursday 25th June. Tours start at 6pm. BOOK A TOUR: https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/ CODE: tqnwc St Mary’s College Open Day Tuesday 30 June For more information see the St Mary's College Website:stmw.school.nz. Enrolments are open for more information email: office@stmw.school.nz Science Laboratory Technician St Mary’s College is seeking a highly organised, reliable lab technician who shows initiative, works well independently and with others in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The position requires a mix of practical and administrative tasks completed on a daily basis. Chemistry Lab experience is essential. The job involves purchasing and preparing chemicals as well as maintenance and preparation of science resources to be used in labs and classrooms. An understanding of the Guidance to the Code of practice for School Exempt Laboratories, 2016, and current health and safety standards is an advantage. The position is part-time, in school term-time only, for 20 hours per week. Remuneration is aligned with the NZEI Support Staff in Schools’ Collective Agreement and dependent on the candidates background and experience. Upholding the special character of St Mary’s College as a catholic mercy college and being able to work collaboratively as part of our high performing Sciences team. Applications close Friday 12 June 2020 at 12 noon.Please send a letter of application and your C.V. to principal@stmw.school.nz with a cc to Head of Science, Trevor Keough at trevor.keough@stmw.school.nz Learner Support Assistant St Mary's College is seeking a self motivated well organised Learner Support Assistant who shows initiative, works well independently and with others in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. You will need to be able to relate to young people and have an enthusiasum for teaching and learning. Previous experience in this type of role would be an advantage. This position is a part time fixed term position for 20 hours per week starting in term 2 and finishing in term 4. Renumeration is aligned with the NZEI Support Staff in Schools' Collective Agreement and dependent on the candidates background and experience. The successful applicant will be supportive of the special character of St Mary's College as a catholic mercy college. Applications close Friday 12 June at 12 noon. Please send your cover letter and C.V. to Meg Doile by emailing meg.doile@stmw.school.nz Embracing his cross means finding the courage to embrace all the hardships of the present time, abandoning for a moment our eagerness for power and possessions in order to make room for the creativity that only the Spirit is capable of inspiring. Pope Francis: Extraordinary moment of prayer, 27 March 2020 RE: Kahungunu Appeal Thank You! The poor remind us how we should live the Gospel Instead of feeling annoyed when they knock on our doors, let us welcome their cry for help as a summons to go out of ourselves, to welcome them with God’s own loving gaze” Pope Francis World Day of the Poor. On the 5th of May Catholic Social Services sent out the call across the Archdiocese to once again help us support Kahungunu Whānau Services to house nine households this month of May. Once again you responded with incredible generosity. Offers of complete house lots, beds, dining tables, linen, blankets, kitchen and household appliances and even money. We cannot begin to thank you enough, especially when we know that some of you are facing uncertain times ahead. The volume of gifts you have given was such that we almost ran out of storage. Fortunately the Wellington South Parish generously gave us a temporary solution while Kahungunu Whanau Services set up homes for their vulnerable whanau. This current appeal is now finished. Once everyone is settled into their homes we hope to share with you stories of what your generosity has meant to them. Stories from the men and women who finally have a place to call home and from the staff at Kahungunu who have committed themselves to finding those homes as well as working to sustain their tenancies. On behalf of the whole team at Catholic Social Services and our partners at Kahungunu Whanau Services we thank you. Thank you for hearing the cry for help as a summons to go out beyond ourselves, welcoming people with great needs with “ God own loving gaze”. E te A tua e manaaki ki a koutou katoa, Karen Holland Kaiarahi Catholic Social Services COVID 19 The country remains at Alert Level 2 and we are still all encouraged to maintain careful and safe practices which are appropriate to our particular situations. Life is beginning to return to our “new normal”. For some this may initially be a difficult time due to significant changes in circumstances. For others it may be a positive challenge or opportunity to develop things in a new or different way. Whatever lies ahead, let’s all remember the positive experiences and learnings we have had over our lockdown times. Here’s our challenge: Can we carry some of these experiences to our new and maybe better normal? Plus, of course, SPIRITUALITY – our prayer, reflection and meditation. As you’ll have seen, we’ve received the news that gatherings of 100 people are now allowed, with some conditions for minimising risk. So very soon up to 100 people at a time, who are able, not compromised by health conditions and feel comfortable to do so, may physically attend Sunday Mass, initially at St Patricks and Holy Cross churches. For those who cannot attend, there is still an option of live streaming as per the past two months and also a wealth of prayer and reflection opportunities for you to continue at home or with other people in your safe bubble. This weekend we celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the Church. We remember the call to the followers of Christ to accept the Spirit and be strong and constant in our witnessing of the Gospel. Dan Schutt has prepared a Novena for Pentecost accessible at: https://www.danschuttemusic.com/wordpressstore/pentecost-novena/ Make it all or just part and in your own time! Below links to a good reflection and prayers AND the bonus section in te reo Māori. https://www.nlo.org.nz/news-and-events/media-releases/feast-of-pentecost-31-may-2020/ Some links for Mass: https://www.facebook.com/fretigga https://www.youtube.com/c/MCSHWellington (Cardinal John) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQsuh9V3w-WRG7yEAnAf_FA (P North) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqqfwCqh8NbWENaNQHQGQbA (Hamilton) https://www.youtube.com/user/cathnews/videos (Australia) PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL COMMUNION My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love you above all things, and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive you sacramentally, Please come spiritually into my heart. I embrace you now, as if you were already there and I unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen A few other links: Laudato Si Here are two rather thought provoking articles relating to Pope Francis’ document and his ongoing call to care for our earth: |
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August 2020
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