8 September 2024
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sunday’s Readings
1st Reading –Isaiah 35.4-7
2nd Reading –James 2.1-5
Gospel Reading – Mark 7.31-37
Responsorial Psalm – “Praise the Lord, my soul!.”
Eucharistic Acclamation –“Save us, Savior of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.”
We Pray For Our recently departed, RIP:
Vincent (Vinnie) William Carroll (1/9), Bishop Denis Browne (1/9), Maurice Dolan (31/8), Elisa Nuñez(Philippines), Teresita Sta. Ana,(Philippines), Anna Feldberg (24/8), Noeline Creighton (22/8), Fr Denis O’Hagan S.M. 14/08, Brian Tiejens, Peter Kelly (Auck.), Brian Brosnahan (3/8), Fr Jim Nicholas (Chch), Jacob Vijoy (Fr. Vijoy’s father-India, 1/8).
Mass Intentions/Anniversaries:
Siemyin Rattanachatree, Cheryle & Megan Hunter (17/8), Raymond Paul Walduogel (31/10), Frank O’Brien (23/7), Colin Brown (29/7), Paula Brown (18/08)
We Pray For those in our community who need our prayers:
Martin Wall, Ann Toomey, Peter Waldron, Patricia Lowe, Janet Anderson, Maurice McDonald, Mikulas Oros, Rod and Mary Bennett, Betty Donaldson, Sr Helena Fouhy, Dianne Jordan, Sonya Jordan, Angela Marlow, Michael and Mary O’Connor, Maurice Takarangi, Gye Beehre, Peter Angland, Chloe Young and May Young.
WHAT’S ON
Hospitality of Cathedral – 1st Friday after the 12.05 pm Mass, we offer hospitality. Please bring some food to share.
Palmerston North Young Adult Ministry – During the term(s), Mass at Massey is happening on Wednesdays at 12:05, the Centre (opposite the bus stop). All Welcome.
Wednesday Evening Rosary – Wednesday evenings at 5pm, you are invited to pray the Rosary. For further information, contact Ian Sutherland 06- 356-7555.
Shining Stars (Pre-School Music Group) – Thursday mornings (during school terms) starting at 9:30am in the Cathedral Lounge. Come along for music fun, followed by morning tea and play.
Praying the Sunday Gospel is held every Friday in the Parish Office Meeting Room at 11.00 am. This is a time for quiet contemplation and reflection on the Gospel.
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament of the Cathedral is on Monday-Friday, 7.30am to 9am and Friday, 6pm to 7pm.
Poor in the World, Rich in Faith
(Mark 7: 31 – 37)
Then Jesus looked up in prayer, groaned mightily, and commanded, “Ephphatha! – Open up!” and it happened. The man’s hearing was clear and his speech plain – just like that. Jesus urged them to keep it quiet, but they talked it up all the more, besides themselves with excitement. “He’s done it all and done it well. He gives hearing to the deaf, speech to the speechless.” (Mark 7: 34 – 37)
A young man got up to speak at the local university prayer gathering last week. At first, I thought he was speaking a language unknown to me; then gradually I realised he was speaking my language. But his ability to make himself understood was nearly strangled by an impediment that made him repeat himself in a loop, over and over, until he could complete a single sentence. I felt sad and frustrated for him.
When he finished speaking, an attractive young woman translated his message for him, emphasising his main points. And the group of people cheered his name, over and over. I realised that this young man, though impaired, was practically a cult figure among his peers. They knew him, liked him, accepted him. Though his tongue was bound, his spirit was free.
Many of us labour under impediments to love that seem insurmountable. They may be physical, mental, or spiritual in nature, rooted in past injury or present dysfunction. However impossible it seems that we may be freed from what holds us bound, the appearance is deceiving. Jesus cured the deaf mute with his spirit. He holds the power to open hearts too.
What part of your life is closed and bound?
PRAY
Friends, go into this new week being quick to listen, slow to speak, and fully prepared to be changed in both heart and mind. We will follow in the ways of Christ. We will seek a more understanding and compassionate world. And so now may the love of God, the grace and generosity of Jesus, and the abiding friendship of the Spirit be with us now and evermore. Amen!
PONDER
Embrace downward mobility in the world, upward mobility in the Kingdom. Find ways to share what you have with the materially or spiritually poor. Isn’t it clear by now that God operates quite differently?
KID’S CORNER
Say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not! Here is your God … (Isaiah 35: 4)
Where is God when it’s dark and stormy at night? Where is God when we are worried about someone we love? Where is God when we are scared to try something new? God is always with us. God is here now. God is in every here and every now. When you feel afraid, try this: Close your eyes, take a deep breath and imagine the love of God wrapping you up like a blanket. Remind yourself that God is with you, no matter what.
Lord, help me remember that you are with me when I am afraid. Amen.
NEWS & INFORMATION
Social Justice Week: 8-14 September 2024 : Imagine Peace for all. Choose forgiveness, know peace. Each year, the New Zealand Catholic Bishops lead us inSocial Justice Week to consider an issue of social justice in Aotearoa. This year we are looking at the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation for building lasting peace. Join us in reflecting on how these values can transform our lives and communities. Through prayer, education,and action, we can work together to create a more just and peaceful society. For resources and more information visit www.caritas.org.nz/parishes/social-justice-week
Pope Francis’ message for 2024: Search under Prayer for Creation at www.vatican.va
Sister Helena Foughy CSB (Brigidine): Congratulations and blessings to Sister Helena Foughy CSB on celebrating 80 years of religious profession. A tremendous milestone of faithful service! We look forward to Sister Helena celebrating her 101st birthday in November.
Youth
- Senior Youth Group is back on Thursdays at St Peters College Wherein Term 3!! Contact Justin ugonehigano@gmail.com
- Massey Mass and Meal resumes on Wednesdays. Contact Massey Chaplain Nick nwilson@pndiocese.org.nz
- UCOL Chaplain is Lynette van Hutten. Please contact her on lynette.chaplain@gmail.com
- Young Church is going to The Send! See thesend.org.nz, which is about activating your missional call! Email Nick
- Young Church is going to Festival One, NZ’s biggest Christian music festival! Email Nick
- The Chaplain at St. Peters is Emma Whitson! Email her on whitsone@stpeterspn.school.nz
- LifeTeen Leadership Convention is 30 August-1 September. Book your ticket now at lifeteen.nz
- Young Catholic Leader 2024 is a servant leadership programme for year 12 students returning to school for Year 13. Dates are 16-20 December 2024. Email Nick.
Interfaith
Interfaith relations is an important aspect of our Catholic life and work. The Palmerston North Interfaith Group works together to foster friendship between people of other faiths, working towards social cohesion and whakawhānaungatanga in our space. Since Vatican II, Interfaith Dialogue has such an importance that it has its own designated Vatican Dicastery. We are running visits to various sacred spaces in our area. All are welcome to come along and visit these spaces. If you are interested in finding out more about Interfaith collaboration, friendship and work here in Palmy, please talk to Julie Randall or Nick Wilson.
Youth Group – Senior Youth Group: There are two more senior youth groups this term. 12 and 19 September from 5:30pm @ St. Peter’s College Whare. Dinner provided.This youth group is from Year 9 and older. All are welcome. Email Justin for more information! ugonehigano@gmail.com
The Send: Activate your Missional Call! We are going to The Send! The send is a national animation of the Great Commissioning from Matthew 28. Feeling sluggy with living your discipleship – then The Send is for you!! Expressions of interest to Nick. Tickets are limited. More at www.thesend.org.nz
Calling all young musicians!: Festival One is New Zealand’s biggest and premier Christian Music festival. See some international and local acts on the stages of this festival! Powerful Christian witness! We are taking two vans of young people in late Jan 2025. Year 9-13. Expressions of interest to Nick!
Lifeteen Aotearoa Summercamp 2025: We are taking people to this awesome camp in mid Jan 2025! Only 270 places nationwide. Year 9-13. So, if you want in, get an expression of interest to Nick ASAP!
Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North: Applications are now open for the next funding round. Applications close 30 Sept 2024. The aim of the Catholic Charities Allocation Committee is to assist with funding Catholic and community organisations who are working in areas identified as priorities by The Tindall Foundation as aligned with diocesan goals. We are charged, by the Diocese of Palmerston North, with the support of groups committed to social, pastoral, charitable and educational needs in our diocesan region. Applications are judged on the basis of need, resource availability and the fulfilment of set criteria. Drawing from its funding base, the Catholic Charities Allocation Committee allocates resources based on criteria as outlined on the criteria information page. Send applications to: The Secretary Catholic Charities Allocation Committee PO Box 5279 Terrace End PN 4414 or contact phone 06 3547180 Ext 842 Website: www.pndioce.org.nz.
Blokes Morning Tea: Tuesday 10 am Manawatu Golf Club, Centennial Drive. All welcome
Ladies Film Afternoon: 10 September 1.30pm Film “Bank of Dave”- Story of a working class man trying to create a new bank.
The Rosary will be prayed at the Cathedral at 3pm on Friday 13 September, and again on Sunday 13 October to commemorate the Apparitions of Our Lady at Fatima. For further information contact Ian Sutherland Ph 06-3567555.
Renaissance Singers Concert: ‘Sing & Swing’ with the Chris Dann Trio of Chris Dann on piano, Berndt Reiss on bass, and Ralph Simms drums. Saturday 21 September, 3pm Pathways at St Andrews, Church St, Palmerston North, featuring the Bob Chillcott A Little Jazz Mass, and some time honoured jazz standards of the mid-twentieth century, collated by Musical Director Christine Archer Lockwood. Choir soloists will step forward into the spotlight for some of the jazz items. Tickets available from choir members or at door: $25, Concession $20, 12 & under free. Delayed streamed video recording $15 – email to order – pnrenaissancesingers@gmail.com
St. James’ Catholic School Quiz Night, Saturday 28 September 6pm to late: St James’ Catholic School 304 Albert St. $25pp. teams of 6-8, drinks for sale, cash & EFTPOS available, raffles, auctions, spot prizes, prize for best-dressed team. All proceeds go towards a playground upgrade. Register your team at https://forms.gle/gSVXXBimUDH7htme6.
Save the date” for the 2024 New Zealand Catholic Medical Association retreat Retreat Date: 15 & 16th November Location: Home of Compassion Wellington Details and registration: This link https://www.newzealandcatholicmedical.co.nz/2024-retreat-wellington Accommodation: On site with limited spaces (use booking ref BGRP- 21024) Schedule for event: List on the event page.
Divine Renovation Open House ‘Save the Date’ 22 & 23 November 2024:‘ Save the Date’ to the Divine Renovation Open House, being hosted by the Catholic Parish of New Plymouth. An ‘Open House’ is about building up your parish and your surrounding community and reigniting your passion for mission.
St Vincent de Paul: Their food store is short of marmite, jam, tea and coffee. Thank you for all your generous donations
St Vinnie’s Op Shop: They immediately need for permanent volunteers (3 hour shifts) on the shop counter. They also continue to need beds, winter bedding as well as clothing for all ages – thank you for your donations. For more information on volunteer work and requests for need Ph 06 357 6779.
ATTENTION: THIS CONCERT HAS BEEN MOVED ON 28 SEPTEMBER 2024.
Fill the World with Love | Music for the Soul and Spirit | Saturday 28 September, 7pm at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. Come along and experience an evening of music and song, featuring Kathi Craig Mnzm and Voices of Inspiration, Entry by Koha.
Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School | 3 – 12 Jan 2025 Hearts Aflame Catholic Summer School is back again this summer with ten days of world-class lectures, uplifting prayer and authentic community! Registrations are NOW OPEN: we sell out fast so be in quick! Visit heartsaflame.org.nz to register or find out more: Open day on 16 August or contact office@hatopaora.school.nz
Free Parenting Courses: The Triple P Positive Parenting Programme at ACROSS has the following scheduled free 2-hour parenting courses coming up in Term 3 that parents/caregivers may be interested in: ‘Fears’(Helping parents support their children to overcome fears) Thursday 22nd August at 7pm. (In-person Venue: ACROSS office 294a Church St, Palmerston North)Friday 6th September 12:15pm (via Zoom)‘Cooperating with Instructions’(Teaching our children to listen and follow instructions and managing difficult behaviours)Friday 16th August at 12:00pm (via Zoom)Tuesday 20th August at 9:30am (in-person Venue: ACROSS office 294a Church St, Palmerston North) Thursday 19th September at 9:30am or 7pm (via Zoom) ‘Hassel-free Mealtimes’ (Supporting our children with learning good mealtime habits) Thursday 22nd August at 9:30am or 12:15pm (in-person Venue: ACROSS office 294a Church St, Palmerston North)Friday 23rd August at 9:30am (via Zoom) Friday 13th September at 9:30am or 12:15pm (either in-person or Zoom)‘Positive Parenting’(A general introduction to Positive Parenting strategies parents can choose from)Thursday 15th September at 12:15pm (in-person Venue: ACROSS office 294a Church St, Palmerston North)‘Bedtimes Routines’ Supporting our children to develop healthy, independent sleep patterns) Thursday 29th August at 9:30am or 12:30pm (via Zoom or in-person) Friday 27th September at 12:15pm (via Zoom)‘Toilet Training’(Supporting our children with toilet training) Thursday 5th September – 9:30am or 12:15am – (either Zoom or in-person) ‘Screentime’. Friday 23/8/24 at 12:15pm (In-person Venue: ACROSS office 294a Church St, Palmerston North) ‘Expressing Feelings without Aggression’ (Fighting & Aggression)(Helps caregivers teach children to interact positively and manage aggressive behaviours)Tuesday 27th August at 9:30am or 12:15pm (either Zoom or in-person).
For Sale – Items available to purchase are located in the Cathedral foyer and/or OLOL foyer (by the TV). Please place your money in the slot provided. Thank you.
Tui Motu – $7.00
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