January 10, 2021 - Baptism of the Lord St. Simon the Apostle Parish 2 Taylors Lane, Rowville 3178 Office closed: Mon 28th Dec - Fri 8th Jan Office Hours from Mon 11th Jan: Monday to Friday 10.00am - 4.00pm (03) 9764 4058 [email protected]www.stsimonsparish.com.au Parish Personnel PARISH PRIEST: Fr Kevin Dillon Mobile: 0421 777 360 Email: [email protected]PASTORAL ASSOCIATE: Mrs Abbie Ferdinands (Mon, Wed, Fri) SACRAMENTAL CO-ORDINATOR: Mrs Marialisa Mandarino (Wed) BUSINESS & OFFICE MANAGER: Mr Peter Evans (Mon - Thu) COVID SAFETY OFFICER: Ms Julie Ashman (Mon, Wed) CHILD SAFEGUARDING: Ms Delisa Gonsalves (Mon) SECRETARIES: Mrs Felicia Ahumada (Mon - Wed) Miss Sophia Giuliano (Thu, Fri) ST. SIMON’S SCHOOL PRINCIPAL: Mr. Tom Wursthorn: 9755 4222 NAZARETH COLLEGE PRINCIPAL: Mr Sam Cosentino: 9795 8100 MASS TIMES: Sunday: 7.30am, 9.00am & 11.00am Monday: 10.00am Tuesday - Friday: 9.15am Saturday: 9.15am, 6.00pm (See page 2 for full details) WEEKEND ONLINE MASS TIMES: Sunday: live from Saturday 6pm OTHER ONLINE MASS TIMES: Tuesday to Friday: Live from midday MASS ON RADIO: Mass from St. Simon’s is broadcast on 89.9 FM The Light at 7am Sundays WEDDINGS & MARRIAGE PREP: Contact Parish Office ANOINTING OF THE SICK: Available as necessary by private arrangement with Fr. Kevin (0421 777 360) PARISH COUNCIL: [email protected]PARISH HALL HIRE: Available for hire after school hours and weekends (not during current restrictions). For enquiries, contact the Parish Office during Office Hours. PARISH CENTRE FACILITIES HIRE: Contact the Parish Office. ST VINCENT DE PAUL HELPLINE: 1800 305 330 We listen to their music, watch their movies and TV, and in many ways follow their fashions and “trends”. For a hundred years, they have been our most important ally in war and a major trading partner in peace. For the most part, theirs is a Christian culture and tradition. So what is our reaction when we see the United States in turmoil and the unthinkable concept of even civil war - in some form or other - being put forward as a very real possibility? The storming and invasion of the Capitol building in Washington on Thursday could be described in many different ways: alarming, disconcerting, scary, frightening and many other words in a similar vein. Another simple and suitable word which most US citizens, even those with opposing political viewpoints, would find apt is the word “sad”. Geographically, we live far away the US, but we have many cultural similarities. To see that nation being torn apart internally, with dissension within families, workplaces, in social groups of all kinds and for that dissension to reach a point as was so evident on Thursday, is simply awful. A comment by the Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory, is well worth noting: “Our Capitol is sacred ground and a place where people over the past centuries have rightly demonstrated, representing a wide variety of opinions. We Americans should honour the place where are debated and decided our fathers’ laws and policies were debated and decided. We should feel violated when the legacy of freedom enshrined in that building is disrespected and desecrated.” In our Prayers of the Faithful Mass at St. Simon’s, we regularly pray for leaders and people of other nations, that they may have wisdom in their approach to life within their own countries. At this turbulent time in world history, our prayers for the people and leaders of the United States perhaps should be more fervent and heartfelt than ever before. Donald Trump has released a statement after Congress certified Joe Biden as the next US president and his supporters stormed the Capitol building. Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College has been certified, after passing 270 electoral votes, and confirms he will be the 46th President of the United States. Congress dealt a hammer blow to Donald Trump whose supporters stormed the Capitol hours earlier, triggering unprecedented chaos and violence in the seat of American democracy. Politicians in the Senate and House of Representatives successfully beat back Republican efforts to deny Biden the electoral votes from swing states Arizona and Pennsylvania. In a statement, President Trump said he agrees to an orderly transition of power but fails to accept defeat or congratulate his successor. “Even though I totally disagree with the outcome of the election, and the facts bear me out, nevertheless there will be an orderly transition on January 20th. It follows the death of four people in the riots at the Capitol building in Washington DC. Talk of resignations among White House aides is also afoot, after many were dissatisfied with Mr Trump’s handling of the violence. Washington DC police said four people died during the chaos at the Capitol on Wednesday local time. They include the woman who was shot and a further three who suffered “medical emergencies”. Fifty-two people were arrested – 26 on Capitol grounds – Washington DC police said. “Herald Sun”, Thu. Jan. 7, 2021
Transcript
St. Simon the Apostle Parish 2 Taylors Lane, Rowville 3178
Office Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10.00-3.00pm (03) 9764 4058
We listen to their music, watch their movies and TV, and in many ways follow their fashions and “trends”. For a hundred years, they have been our most important ally in war and a major trading partner in peace. For the most part, theirs is a Christian culture and tradition.
So what is our reaction when we see the United States in turmoil and the unthinkable concept of even civil war - in some form or other - being put forward as a very real possibility?
The storming and invasion of the Capitol building in Washington on Thursday could be described in many different ways: alarming, disconcerting, scary, frightening and many other words in a similar vein.
Another simple and suitable word which most US citizens, even those with opposing political viewpoints, would find apt is the word “sad”.
Geographically, we live far away the US, but we have many cultural similarities. To see that nation being torn apart internally, with dissension within families, workplaces, in social groups of all kinds and for that dissension to reach a point as was so evident on Thursday, is simply awful.
A comment by the Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory, is well worth noting: “Our Capitol is sacred ground and a place where people over the past centuries have rightly demonstrated, representing a wide variety of opinions. We Americans should honour the place where are debated and decided our fathers’ laws and policies were debated and decided. We should feel violated when the legacy of freedom enshrined in that building is disrespected and desecrated.”
In our Prayers of the Faithful Mass at St. Simon’s, we regularly pray for leaders and people of other nations, that they may have wisdom in their approach to life within their own countries. At this turbulent time in world history, our prayers for the people and leaders of the United States perhaps should be more fervent and heartfelt than ever before.
Donald Trump has released a statement after Congress certified Joe Biden as the next US president and his supporters stormed the Capitol building. Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College has been certified, after passing 270 electoral votes, and confirms he will be the 46th President of the United States.
Congress dealt a hammer blow to Donald Trump whose supporters stormed the Capitol hours earlier, triggering unprecedented chaos and violence in the seat of American democracy. Politicians in the Senate and House of Representatives successfully beat back Republican efforts to deny Biden the electoral votes from swing states Arizona and Pennsylvania.
In a statement, President Trump said he agrees to an orderly transition of power but fails to accept defeat or congratulate his successor. “Even though I totally disagree with the outcome of the election, and the facts bear me out, nevertheless there will be an orderly transition on January 20th.
It follows the death of four people in the riots at the Capitol building in Washington DC. Talk of resignations among White House aides is also afoot, after many were dissatisfied with Mr Trump’s handling of the violence.
Washington DC police said four people died during the chaos at the Capitol on Wednesday local time. They include the woman who was shot and a further three who suffered “medical emergencies”. Fifty-two people were arrested – 26 on Capitol grounds – Washington DC police said.
Recent Death: Lawrence Patrick Susantha De Alwis, Milton Marques,
Fr. Frank Hart (Sandhurst Diocese)
Anniversary of Death: Robert Wong, Maliakal Joseph
ST SIMONS PARISH
Mass pre-registration via “Flocknote” on the Parish Website. You may book up to 5 people per sign-up.
Mass sign-up links and latest arrangements: www.stsimonsparish.com.au
MASS IN THE CHURCH
Mon 11: 10.00am
Tue 12: 9.15am
Wed 13: 9.15am
Thu 14: 9.15am
Fri 15: 9.15am
Sat 16: 9.15am 6.00pm (Vigil Mass)
Sun 17: 7.30am 9.00am 11.00am
(NB: Sat 9.15am Mass resumes as of next Sat)
FR. PAT MORONEY OMI will be the Celebrant of Mass at St. Simon’s from Monday to Friday this week while Fr. Kevin is away for a few days. Fr. Pat would be well-known to many parishioners, having served as Principal of Mazenod College for more than 13 years. We welcome him to St. Simon’s, grateful for his readiness to help us.
Parish Masses
For WEEKDAY Mass there is no need to book ahead. However, each attendee must register their name and their contact phone number immediately upon entering the Church Foyer.
For WEEKEND Masses, booking will still be essential so that our parish continues, for the good of all, to observe the COVID regulations respectfully. (see website for details)
Check-in is required before Mass. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled Mass time to avoid queues and delays to the start of Mass. Thank you for your support.
Mass Pre-Registration Resources:
The Video on the Parish YouTube Channel, “Mass Procedure St Simon's Parish from 23 Nov 2020” can be a helpful resource.
Parish Website: www.stsimonsparish.com.au
Mass Attendance Sign Up For all information and sign up links to the Mass dates.
Online Masses
St Simons Parish is expecting to begin livestreaming Masses in 2021.
This week: Tue, Wed, Thu and Fri Masses will be available online from midday. Sunday Mass will be available online from 6pm on Saturday.
Website: www.stsimonsparish.com.au
On YouTube: St Simon the Apostle Parish, Rowville
For earlier Masses, click “Previous Mass Videos”.
PIETY STALL
A selection of religious items including gifts for sacramental celebrations, Columban Calendars, Rosary beads and cards are available for purchase. Please ask the Parish Team before or after Mass for assistance. …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
Zoom GOSPEL REFLECTION/PRAYER GROUP
Weekly on Mondays at 7.30pm
Thank you for your participation, support and faith-filled presence during 2020. We look forward to meeting on January 18th 2021.
To join email: [email protected] …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
ROSARY GROUP Fridays at 11.00am via Zoom
Thank you for supporting one another through prayer in 2020. Meetings will resume on January 29th 2021, to pray the Rosary and intercede to Our Lady for all our intentions.
To join email: [email protected] …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
FAITH DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Zoom and Soul: Thurs 4th Feb 2021
Thank you for joining us to reflect and share in a prayerful and inspiring space. Meeting together online was a joy and blessing during 2020.
To join email: [email protected] …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
ST SIMONS YOUTH Connect Group
Thank you to our wonderful youth for attending or facilitating our sessions during 2020! It was wonderful to learn, grow and laugh together; let’s continue to create a positive space in 2021!
If you are interested in sharing your talents to serve the community together with other youth, we would love for you to get in touch. Eliza: 0428 065 448 …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
AFTER SCHOOL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (ASRE) PROGRAM 2021
Do you have or do you know anyone who has Primary School aged children at a non-Catholic school?
St Simon’s Parish is offering children the opportunity to participate in our Religious Education Program. We are providing classes from Grade 1 to Grade 6.
Our Sacramental Program is taught by committed teachers who will prepare the children to receive the Sacraments, with parent support.
Please fill out the registration form on St. Simon’s Parish website and return to the Parish Office.
Rosetta: 0408 884 867
PARISH DIARY Mon 18 Jan: Prayer Group
Fri 29 Jan: Rosary Group
Thu 4 Feb: Faith Development Team ……………………...………………………………………………….…………
THANK YOU
The Parish Team would like to thank our ministries for their time and willingness to adapt to online
gatherings; continuing to provide prayer, faith-filled discussion and social opportunities to our parishioners
and the wider community.
Connecting online was a blessing to many during the challenge of 2020. The Parish Team are
both proud and grateful for the positivity that energised and comforted so many. Thank you.
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SVDP CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Donate online at vinnies.org.au or call 13 18 12
Should you require any further support or if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our Fundraising Team on 03 9895 5959 or email [email protected] …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
MERCY CONNECT MELBOURNE
Mercy Works Ltd. is currently recruiting volunteers to support Refugee Students and Asylum Seekers in Primary and Secondary schools across the Melbourne Archdiocese. The volunteer commitment is approximately half a day per week during school terms.
Experience working in an educational setting is preferred but not limited to. Training Day for new volunteers with emphasis on Child Safeguarding at the end of January.
Please contact Sr. Mary Lewis RSM for an application form and further information.
Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius Loyola 2021 program February onwards spanning 30 - 35 weeks.
Anyone is welcome to apply - no prior experience necessary. Expressions of interest close 28 Feb 2021.
Sandra: 1300 392 636 or [email protected] ……………………...………………………………………………….…………
REACHING BEYOND 2020
People of all trades and professions are being requested by communities abroad seeking to build the capacity of their organisations and the skills of their people.
Restrictions this year have made communities’ needs acute, but your assistance will help to develop self-reliance and sustainable solutions to poverty.
Palms Australia will provide you with thorough preparation to ensure your readiness as travel resumes, and support on assignment.
Imagine if you could refinance your loan to a lower rate and help put an end to homelessness.
Our experienced Mortgage Brokers, based right here in Rowville are ready to assist you. Not only will we find you the best deal, but thanks to the work of our charity partners, your
loan will also have a social impact.
Learn more at www.together.finance find us on Facebook
@together.finance or call (03) 8761 9024.
January 10, 2021 - Baptism of the Lord
We come to you
Law: family law, wills, power of attorney and estates, commercial law, employment, contract and debt disputes.
Conveyancing: buying and selling property.
www.powalawyers.com.au
0407 739 123 | 0452 615 780
First reading Isaiah 55:1-11
Thus says the Lord:
Oh, come to the water all you who are thirsty; though you have no money, come! Buy corn without money, and eat, and, at no cost, wine and milk. Why spend money on what is not bread, your wages on what fails to satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and you will have good things to eat and rich food to enjoy. Pay attention, come to me; listen, and your soul will live.
With you I will make an everlasting covenant out of the favours promised to David. See, I have made of you a witness to the peoples, a leader and a master of the nations. See, you will summon a nation you never knew, those unknown will come hurrying to you, for the sake of the Lord your God, of the Holy One of Israel who will glorify you.
Seek the Lord while he is still to be found, call to him while he is still near. Let the wicked man abandon his way, the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn back to the Lord who will take pity on him, to our God who is rich in forgiving; for my thoughts are not your thoughts, my ways not your ways – it is the Lord who speaks. Yes, the heavens are as high above earth as my ways are above your ways, my thoughts above your thoughts.
Yes, as the rain and the snow come down from the heavens and do not return without watering the earth, making it yield and giving growth to provide seed for the sower and bread for the eating, so the word that goes from my mouth does not return to me empty, without carrying out my will and succeeding in what it was sent to do.
Responsorial Psalm Isaiah 12
Second reading 1 John 5:1-9
Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ has been begotten by God; and whoever loves the Father that begot him loves the child whom he begets. We can be sure that we love God’s children if we love God himself and do what he has commanded us; this is what loving God is – keeping his commandments; and his commandments are not difficult, because anyone who has been begotten by God has already overcome the world; this is the victory over the world – our faith.
Who can overcome the world? Only the man who believes that Jesus is the Son of God: Jesus Christ who came by water and blood, not with water only, but with water and blood; with the Spirit as another witness – since the Spirit is the truth – so that there are three witnesses, the Spirit, the water and the blood, and all three of them agree. We accept the testimony of human witnesses, but God’s testimony is much greater, and this is God’s testimony, given as evidence for his Son.
Gospel
Matthew 1:7-11
In the course of his preaching John the Baptist said: ‘Someone is following me, someone who is more powerful than I
am, and I am not fit to kneel down and undo the strap of his sandals. I have baptised you with water, but he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit.’
It was at this time that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised in the Jordan by John. No sooner had he come up out of the water than he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit, like a dove, descending on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; my favour rests on you.’
Next Week’s Readings: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 Sam 3:3-10, 19; 1 Cor 6:13-15, 17-20; Jn 1:35-42
