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December 16 & 17, 2017 - THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT - Year B Issue Number 770
The Massabielle The Weekly Newsletter of St Bernadette’s
Parish Community, Castle Hill, NSW
Hello everyone! The third Sunday of Advent reminds us that advent is time of waiting with Mary to celebrate the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a good time to reflect on the pregnancy of Mary as she waited in joyful expectation for the birth of her son. We reflect during Advent that Jesus was a pre-born child. The moment of the Incarnation took place, not on Christmas Day at his birth, but at the Annunciation which we celebrate on March 25 - nine months earlier. Jesus the Eternal Word took flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, by the power of the Holy Spirit, after she consented to God’s plan announced by the Archangel Gabriel. Reflecting on Mary’s pregnancy can teach us patience and the attitude of joyful expectation that all of us should have as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and as we wait for his second coming in glory at the end of time. This attitude of joyful expectation should accompany the pregnancy of every woman as we await the birth of her pre-born child. Each child is made in the image and likeness of God no matter what their handicaps or circumstances of conception. Every child deserves a chance to be born and to continue to grow and develop outside the womb. Jesus identifies with the pre-born since he himself was a pre-born child. Jesus went through all the stages of development that we went through. He was a tiny zygote, an embryo, foetus, infant, child, adolescent and an adult. At no time did he become more human. He simply went through different stages of human development as we all did. Mary also can identify with every pregnant mother in a difficult pregnancy. She did not fully understand God’s plan, yet she trusted. True devotion to Mary means imitating her virtues – her faith, her trust and her willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of her son and others as she stayed with Elizabeth for three months to help Elizabeth deliver St John the Baptist. When Mary visited St Elizabeth, John the Baptist leapt for joy within St Elizabeth’s womb as he recognized Christ’s presence in Mary. This should lead us to
an even greater respect for the lives of pre-born children and inspire us to work for their protection. Jesus says "Whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters that you do to me." (Mat. 25, 40) St Joseph cared for Mary during her pregnancy. He is an example for all men of the stewardship they are called to exercise. Men are called to respect the wonder of procreation and to care for pregnant women emotionally, materially and spiritually. During their pregnancies women become vulnerable and should be able to rely on the support of their husbands and other men in their life who should respect and assist women as the mystery of life unfolds within them.
It is fitting that there are major feasts of Our Lady during the celebration of Advent – the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary appeared as a pregnant woman to Blessed Juan Diego in Mexico in 1531. She identified herself to be "the perpetual and perfect Virgin Mary, holy mother of the true God through whom everything lives, the Creator and Master of heaven and earth". She also proclaimed herself as Juan Diego’s "merciful mother, the mother of all of you who live united in this land, and of all humankind, of all those who love me, of those who cry
out to me, of those who seek me, of those who have confidence in me." Mary showed love to a people who had just found themselves destroyed and unprotected after the destruction of their magnificent City Tenochtitlan, at a time of hopelessness and sorrow. Pope John Paul II proclaimed Our Lady of Guadalupe to be the Patroness of the Americas. She is also recognized as the Patroness of the Unborn. We recognize that Mary’s life began at the moment of her conception in the womb of St Ann. From the first instant and throughout her life she remained free from sin. Through the Immaculate Conception God gave humankind a new start. The name "Eve" means "mother of all the living", but because of her disobedience Eve brought sin, death and suffering into the world. When Jesus calls Mary "Woman" in the Gospel of John at the Wedding Feast of Cana and at the foot of the cross
A TIME OF WAITING
Today’s Readings
First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-2,10-11
The spirit of the Lord has been given to me, for the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to bring good news to the poor, to bind up hearts that are broken; to proclaim liberty to captives, freedom to those in prison; to proclaim a year of favour from the Lord. ‘I exult for joy in the Lord, my soul rejoices in my God, for he has clothed me in the garments of salvation, he has wrapped
me in the cloak of integrity, like a bridegroom wearing his wreath, like a bride adorned in her jewels. ‘For as the earth makes fresh things grow, as a garden makes seeds spring up, so will the Lord make both integrity and praise spring up in the sight of the nations.’
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
Be happy at all times; pray constantly; and for all things give thanks to God, because this is what God expects you to do in Christ Jesus. Never try to suppress the Spirit or treat the gift of prophecy with contempt; think before you do anything – hold on to what is good and avoid every form of evil. May the God of peace make you perfect and holy; and may you all be kept safe and blameless, spirit, soul and body, for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. God has called you and he will not fail you.
Gospel: John 1:6-8,19-28
A man came, sent by God. His name was John. He came as a witness, as a witness to speak for the light, so that everyone might believe through him. He was not the light, only a witness to speak for the light. This is how John appeared as a witness. When the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, ‘Who are you?’ he not only declared, but he declared quite openly, ‘I am not the Christ.’ ‘Well then,’ they asked, ‘are you Elijah?’ ‘I am not,’ he said. ‘Are you the Prophet?’ He answered, ‘No.’ So they said to him, ‘Who are you? We must take back an answer to those who sent us. What have you to say about yourself?’ So John said, ‘I am, as Isaiah prophesied: a voice that cries in the wilderness: Make a straight way for the Lord.’ Now these men had been sent by the Pharisees, and they put this further question to him, ‘Why are you baptising if you are not the Christ, and not Elijah, and not the prophet?’ John replied, ‘I baptise with water; but there stands among you – unknown to you – the one who is coming after me; and I am not fit to undo his sandal-strap.’ This happened at Bethany, on the far side of the Jordan, where John was baptising.
cont’d from front page
Jesus was affirmed her mission as the new Eve. Mary is more truly the mother of all the living. Mary said yes to God and Jesus Christ was conceived in her womb by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life, so Mary is truly the Mother of Our Life. From the cross Jesus gave Mary to us to be our mother. Mary throughout history has come to the aid of her people. In this time of Advent, we particularly ask Mary to intercede for us to put an end to the tragedies of abortion, euthanasia and other attacks on human life and that we might lead other nations to respect the dignity and value of each and every human life from conception to natural death. Advent calls us to preparation, to strengthen our faith with the help of the Holy Spirit, to enter into that quiet place with the Child -- there we find true meaning in our life. It is a place where all that we are is revealed; it is a place in which the Day Star rises in the East, driving out the darkness, replacing it with an ineffable light of Love which can never be forgotten nor extinguished. Mary urges us to enter into Advent, into "the Way." As we gaze with the eyes of faith upon that mystery which is anticipated in Advent, looking ahead toward the Child who lay in the manger, Mary whispers: look at my Son. "Do whatever he tells you" (Jn 2:5).
Readings Next Week 4th Sunday of Advent - Yr B
2 Samuel 7:1-5,8-12,14,16; Romans 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38
ST MICHAEL’S CHRISTMAS BRUNCH: This Christmas morning, if you are a single person, a couple, or a family, you are warmly invited to share a Christmas Brunch with St Michael’s Parish Community. Equally, if you know anyone who even might be spending Christmas by themselves, bring them along, and everyone will celebrate together. A delicious brunch will be served at 11am on Christmas Day, 25th December, in the St. Michael’s Old Church at Chapel Lane Baulkham Hills. Transport can be arranged, just let them know when you RSVP Please RSVP to David Dowling on 0421 051 029 or at [email protected].
CHRISTMAS MASSES 2017
Sunday, December 24 - Christmas Eve 5.00pm Children and Young Families’ Mass
7.00pm Family Mass
9.30pm LIFE TEEN Youth Mass 12.00 midnight Traditional Midnight Mass
(preceded by carols from 11.30pm)
Monday, December 25 - Christmas Day 7.30am, 9.00am, 10.30am (NO EVENING MASS)
Reconciliation Saturdays 8.30 to 9.00am, 4.30 to 5.30pm
Tuesday 19 December - 9.30 to 10.00am Wednesday 20 December - 7.30pm Rite II
Friday 22 December - 9.30 to 10.00am
2nd Rite of Reconciliation Monday 18 December at 7.30pm (Baulkham Hills)
Wednesday 20 December at 7.30pm (Castle Hill)
Thursday 21 December at 7.30pm (Kellyville)
Into LIFE and LIFE Nights are finished for the year. But we’ll be back!
Wishing you the most blessed Christmas from all of us at Life Teen
More information? Please contact James Hay on 0403 933 732, Twitter: @StBernadettesYM, Instagram: StBernadetteYouth or [email protected].
Envelopes are available in the foyer for the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. The envelopes can be dropped into the Vinnies Poor Box, put onto the collection plate or dropped into the parish office (letterbox at front door).
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION 2018: Welcome cards of our parish children who are preparing for the sacraments are now on display in the foyer. Please keep them and their families in your prayers during this time. Sessions will resume in February 2018.
CHRISTIAN MEDITATION GROUP: St. Bernadette’s Evening Christian Meditation Group meets in the Lourdes Centre, 31b Brisbane Road, Castle Hill. (follow the lighted pathway), Thursday Evenings from 7.30 – 8.30pm. Enquiries: Lesley Maker 8677 8845 or email [email protected]. The group will resume on Thursday, 2nd February, 2018.
MASS OF THE HOLY INNOCENTS: 28 December The principal celebrant for the Annual Mass of the Holy Innocents will be Fr Benedict La Volpe OFM Conv. Mass at 11.00am at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, 8 Diana Ave, Kellyville, followed by a rosary procession to the Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents. A luncheon will be provided – please bring a plate to share. Inquiries 9629 2595.
CHRIST CATHOLIC COMMUNITY PRAYER GROUP meets in the Marian Centre on Tuesday morning at 10.00am studying the Sunday Mass readings for Advent. This group will continue through the holiday break.
GIVING ENVELOPES: A few sets of Planned Giving Envelopes are still in the church foyer awaiting collection.
A GIFT BEYOND CHRISTMAS Support for Loyola Senior High School, Mt Druitt Thank you very much to all parishioners who have generously contributed to this appeal over the last few years. A selection of the causes you have supported in 2017:
• Support for two students who fell pregnant in their time with us, one of whom was asked to leave her family home
• Interpreting services to support communication between refugee families and the school, and assisting families to access community agencies
• Carpentry toolkit for a Trade student unable to afford some very expensive items
• School shoes for students unable to afford them
• Uniform items for students unable to afford them It has been a great joy witnessing a number of these students graduate with dignity and pride. Thank you for the difference you have made in their lives. Your ongoing support is very much appreciated.
Mrs Cathy Larkin, Principal
Envelopes for ‘A Gift Beyond Christmas’ donations are on the Christmas Tree and can be put on the collection plate, put into the box under the tree or left at the parish office.
WELCOME to the Candidates and Catechumens who have enrolled into the RCIA programme and will be welcomed into the Parish Community at the 9.00am Mass today. HOLY HOUR with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament this Thursday evening from 8.00pm to 9.00pm including Rosary, silent meditation and scripture reading. Parishioners and visitors welcome. REPARATION PRAYER GROUP is having a Christmas break and will resume mid January in the Parish Basement from 8.00 to 9.00pm. RETIREMENT VILLAGES SCHEDULE THIS WEEK
Warrina - Mass & Anointing of the Sick on Tuesday 19 December at 4pm in the chapel.
Nuffield & Hopetoun - Mass & Anointing of the Sick on Wednesday 20 December at 4pm in the chapel at Farrer Brown Court.
Nordby - Mass & Anointing of the Sick on Friday 22 December at 4pm.
Wirreanda - Communion Service & Anointing of the Sick on Friday 22 December at 11am.
ANGELS AND SHEPHERDS NEEDED: Do you have a budding angel or shepherd who is school age and would like to be part of the dramatisation of the Nativity Story at the 5pm Christmas Eve Mass? Practice will be
on Saturday, 23rd December at 10.00am. Enquiries: Monica Fitzalan on 0413 839 091. ATTENTION LECTORS AND MINISTERS OF THE EUCHARIST: Anyone who no longer wishes to remain on the Lectors or Eucharistic Ministers roster for 2018, please phone Nancy at the parish office on 9634 2622.
COLUMBAN CALENDARS ARE NOW ON SALE FROM THE BOOKSHOP - $10 EACH.
VINNIES CHRISTMAS CARDS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE - $7 PER PACKET
The sale of these products support the works of the St Vincent de Paul Society
OFFICE CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS The Parish Office will close for Christmas holidays
on Friday 22nd December and re-open on Tuesday 2nd January.
SECOND RITE OF RECONCILIATION this Wednesday at 7.30pm
St Bernadette’s Parish Community
Parish House, 367 Old Northern Road, Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Telephone 9634 2622 Fax 9899 3511 Email: [email protected]
Web page: http://www.stbernadette.org.au
Parish Staff Mass Times for this Week Rev Fernando Montano, Parish Priest Sunday Sat 6.00pm Rev Michael Gathuku, Assistant Priest Sun 7.30am, 9.00am, 10.30am (incense) & Mrs Nancy Eberhaut, Pastoral Associate 6.00pm Parish LIFE TEEN Youth Mass Mr James Hay, Youth Minister Weekdays Mon 6.45am Mrs Alice Bradshaw, Sacramental Co-ordinator Tue 6.45am Mrs Frances Gallagher, Office Manager Wed 6.45am, 9.15am Mrs Monica Rubic, Parish Secretary (Finance: Mon-Thu) Thurs 6.45am
Mr Darren Edwards, Maintenance Fri 6.45am, Sat 8.00am
Reconciliation Sat 8.30am - 9.00am, 4.30pm - 5.00pm Mass on Public Holidays at 8.00am
Baptisms: By appointment only. Contact the Parish Office. Please note the Church law: Parents are obliged to take care that infants are baptised in the first few weeks. As soon as possible after the birth or even before it, they are to go to the pastor to request the sacrament for their child and to be prepared properly for it. [Can. 867 §1]
St Bernadette’s Parish School: Mrs Leanne Nettleton (Principal) 9407 6600
Confirmation 2018 Information Nights - 25 & 26 June, 2018
Please pray for Kevin Cottrill (funeral Monday at 12.30), Edward Nice and Gordon Pak who have died recently and for the anniversaries of Norman Gatt and Des Howard.
Prayers for the Sick: David Rix, Spiro Tanti, Maria Robayo, Rosary Roco, Robin Reyden, Sr. Bridie O’Connell rsj, Peter Viler, John Reynolds, Narelle Cartwright, Fr Peter McGrath, Vicky Mizzi, Christina McAuley, Pat Brookes, Robert Waddell, Grace Boitano, Yvonne Hill, Aurora Haboc, Carmen Camilleri, Anne Parker, Irwin Hill, June Phelan, Jose Cruz, Ursula Prins and Barbara Clune.
ROSTERS FOR NEXT WEEKEND - 23 & 24 December, 2017
ACOLYTES/ SERVERS LECTORS MINISTERS OF COMMUNION
VIGIL Holiday Roster
Kristine Murgatroyd Les Blanch
Rod Burridge
Iciar Quintana, Gregory & Carol Williams, Natalia Chui, Monica & Matthew Fitzalan, Kathleen & John Abernethy,
John Geoghegan
7.30AM Holiday Roster
Wayne Vergano Erika Druzinec Margaret Ash
Patrick Bowie, Andrea Tomic, Teresa Rambaldini, Colleen & Eric Woodhead, Jo Wickens
9.00AM Holiday Roster
Trevor O’Shea Brian Blacklock Joanne O’Shea
Brian & Jenny Blacklock, Neil Bone, Angela Crowe, Brian D’Arcy, Ingrid Akkari/Jana Fizely, Ann O’Brien,
Jack Garcia, Rosalie Sampath
10.30AM Holiday Roster
Beard Family Jan Crawford
John Rajkumar
Anita Christy, Helen Wintle, Dorothy Finucane, Narelle Cartwright, Elizabeth Fogolin, Margaret Hawkes,
Winnie & Henry Li
6.00PM PARISH LIFE TEEN YOUTH MASS MINISTRY ROSTER - 24 December, 2017
Servers
Christmas Masses
Welcoming
Christmas Masses
Lectors
Christmas Masses
Offertory
Christmas Masses
Projectionist Christmas Masses
Communion
Christmas Masses
Singers
Christmas Masses
Lauren Fernandez
CHILDREN’S LITURGY Tanya Taggart
Margaret Stedman
FLOWER ROSTER Christmas
CHURCH HOUSEKEEPING Margaret & Margaret Sinha, RosE Molina, Francesca Menezes, Pancras Robinson
COUNTING (1st Collection) Maureen Fearnside
Teresa Somasundram
COUNTING (2nd Collection) John Loftus, Simon & Venessa Xiberras, Josef Eberl, Joe Busuttil, Joseph Collorafi
BOOKSHOP Ryan Coelho / Carmel Moriarty / Jenny & Brian Blacklock / Josie & Seng Yeoh / Leah Bonifacio
Piano
Christmas Masses
