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St. Simon the Apostle Parish 2 Taylors Lane, Rowville 3178
Office Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10.00-3.00pm (03) 9764 4058
[email protected] www.stsimonsparish.com.au
Dec 25 - Feast of Christmas, Dec 27 - The Holy Family
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
“Will we have Christmas this year?” was a commonly-asked
question all over the world throughout 2020. For so many in
numerous countries, the answer has been a definitive “No”, or at
least “Not in the way we’d like to, and are used to”.
And when people responded to that question, many would be
thinking of holidays, gifts, cards, family meals, work bonuses or
even (hopefully) some religious expression of the Birth of
Jesus.
But there are some for whom the question: “Will we have
Christmas this year?” had a different meaning altogether. They had
reason to wonder if they would actually be around on December 25. I
was one of those.
Now I started writing these “front pages” in parish bulletins in
1983, when I was the Assistant Priest at St. Mary’s, Altona. That’s
around two thousand bulletins in all, and less than ten have been
”personal” in content. And this one, for Christmas 2020, is one of
those - personal. I hope it does not come across as self-indulgent,
because that's certainly not the intention.
But without being (again, hopefully) “dramatic” about something
that, over time, happens to most of us, it was a somewhat
confronting experience to be told in March that I had cancer and
required surgery within a couple of weeks. However with the
combination of a highly-skilled medical team, the prayers of many
wonderful people, and most importantly the grace of God, here I am
- and it’s Christmas 2020.
Then, come to think of it, so are you! By that I mean, you’re
“here” too! So you and I are privileged to have another Christmas,
perhaps even many more of them. Despite the drama of COVID-19 and
its multi-faceted impact on our lives, we’re still here to breathe
the air, to hopefully enjoy the company of people we love and who
love us, maybe even to look ahead to a day when the effects of
COVID are no longer a daily burden that we have to manage.
If we’re really fortunate, we have someone in our life who knows
us well enough to tell us what we need to hear, not just what we
may want to hear.
That’s what happened to me this week when a close friend urged
me to “Enjoy Christmas”. It wasn’t a throw-away line. It was wise,
caring advice, given in the knowledge that no Christmas should be
taken for granted by any of us, and certainly not by me, this year
or in the future.
So that’s what I’m doing this year. I’m going to enjoy Christmas
with you, my parish family who have cared for me with incredible
generosity throughout the challenges of 2020, including the
COVID-related issues we have all had to face, and the more personal
ones that confronted me in rapid succession across this year. Of
course, our wonderful parish staff and many volunteers have been a
central part of that care and support.
So thank you - every one of you - and let’s truly “enjoy
Christmas” this year.
Fr. Kevin Dillon
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, Wednesday: 9.15am Thursday: 9,15am, 11.00pm Saturday:
10.00am, 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 6.00am
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
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CHURCH & PARISH OFFICE
Office Closed from Mon Dec 28 to Fri Jan 8
Office Opened from Mon Jan 11: Monday to Friday 10.00am -
4.00pm
For urgent queries, please try calling:
Fr Kevin Dillon on 0421 777 360 and you will be contacted as
soon as possible.
May God bless you and keep you safe and healthy
…………………………………………………………………...….…………...…
A NOTE OF THANKS
The Parish Team would like to thank our Parish
- both St Simons and the extended virtual parish -
for your support during a challenging year.
We have worked hard to keep as many services
going as was possible subject to the restrictions.
As is common with many Australian organisations
and services at this time of year, we will be closing
the office for the two weeks after Christmas,
reopening on Monday January 11, 2021.
…………………………………………………………………...….…………...…
RECONCILIATION will be available in the
Reconciliation Room at 9.45am on Saturdays or by
private request to Fr. Kevin. Please ensure social
distancing directions.
…………………………………………………………………………………...…
ARE YOU OR A FRIEND THINKING OF BECOMING A CATHOLIC?
Adults entering the Catholic Church or just thinking about it,
follow a process called RCIA - the Rite of Christian Initiation of
Adults. RCIA IS FOR: Adults who are not baptised, Adults baptised
in another Christian church, and Non-practising Catholics wishing
to renew faith.
Contact the Parish Office or Reg on 9790 5616
…………………………………………………………………………………...…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Shanesia Silveira, Brittney Elsey, Elizabeth Fong,
Madeleine Porritt, Herky Ekanayake,
Michael De Silva, Joshua Briffa, Derek Footman,
Sebastian Hart, Jackie Devienne, Yolande De Silva,
Vivien Venezuela, Mikala Viney, Leo Lannazzo
…………………………………………………………………………………...…
MAY THEY REST IN PEACE RISEN IN THE LORD
Recent Death:
Dorothy McCormack, Betty Dannock,
Janette Gribble
May God bless you and keep you safe and healthy
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
Sat Dec 26: 10.00am 6.00pm
Sun Dec 27: 7.30am 9.00pm; 11.00pm
Mon Dec 28: 10.00am
Tue Dec 29: 9.15am
Wed Dec 30: 9.15am
Thu Dec 31: 9.15am; 11.00pm
The 11.00pm Mass is a wonderful way of prayerfully thanking God
for the grace of simply getting through this challenging (to say
the least!) year of 2020, and asking for the many graces we will
need in 2021. Mass will conclude by 11.45pm and tea and coffee will
be available in the Foyer afterwards to welcome (!!) in the New
Year of 2021.
Fri Jan 1 (New Year’s Day): 10.00am
Sat Jan 2: 6.00pm (Vigil Mass)
Sun Jan 3: 7.30am 9.00am 11.00am
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, Thur 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”.
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Zoom GOSPEL REFLECTION/PRAYER GROUP
Weekly on Mondays at 7.30pm
Our final evening together in 2020 will be on December 21st.
Christmas blessings, we look forward to meeting on January 18th
2021.
To join email: [email protected]
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ROSARY GROUP Fridays at 11.00am via Zoom
Thank you for supporting one another through prayer this year.
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 has been 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 this year! It has been wonderful to learn, grow and
laugh together; creating a positive space in 2021.
Contact us: [email protected]
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YOUTH CHOIR 2021
Welcome to all singers and musicians!
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
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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 …………………………………………………………………….…………...…
ACN AUSTRALIA
That Catholic Shop
That Catholic Shop is an exciting development for Aid to the
Church in Need Australia. This year do some Christmas shopping on
the online store and support the works of ACN to keep the faith
alive. Please visit www.thatcatholicshop.com
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 has been a blessing to many during this
challenging year. The Parish Team are both proud and grateful for
the positivity that has energised and comforted so many. Thank
you.
……………………...………………………………………………….…………
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.
Email: [email protected] (preferred for contact)
Website: www.mercyworks.org.au
Mercy Connect Melbourne: (03) 9326 1895
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SPIRITUAL GROWTH IN 2021
Jesuit and Ignatian Spiritualty Australia
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]
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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.
See: www.palms.org.au Email: [email protected] Speak with
Roger: 0431 995 058
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.thatcatholicshop.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]
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Spring Clean Windows Inside and Out
Carpet Cleaning
Tenant Vacate Clean
General House Cleaning
For a FREE QUOTE call Steve: 0423 496 516
Appliance Repairs & Installation Service
We specialize in the repair of:
Washing Machines Dishwashers Dryers Electric Ovens Microwaves
Cooktops / Range hoods Fridges / Freezers Test / Tag Services
Contact: Ash (0413 913 619)
NBN / Data Networks CCTV Security Cameras
Digital & Cable TV Wi-Fi Speed Boost
Call Brad: 0438 090 700 [email protected]
Registered Cabler T08011 Security Reg. 936-086-80S
Please call the
Parish Office
if you would
like to advertise
your business
in our
weekly bulletin
Please call the
Parish Office
if you would
like to advertise
your business
in our
weekly bulletin
Super Steve’s Cleaning Team
Piano Lessons
Private or Group Lessons on: Piano, Keyboard, Guitar, Singing,
Theory
5 years old to adults, for all levels
Preparation for A.M.E.B and V.C.E Exams, vocal performances and
just
for your pleasure!
Book a free trial class: Phone: 0407 816 197
Email: [email protected]
www.melodymusicschool.com.au
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
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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.
Dec 25 - Feast of Christmas, Dec 27 - The Holy Family
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 Ecclesiasticus 3:3-7,14-17
The Lord honours the father in his children, and upholds the
rights of a mother over her sons.
Whoever respects his father is atoning for his sins, he who
honours his mother is like someone amassing a
fortune. Whoever respects his father will be happy with children
of his
own, he shall be heard on the day when he prays.
Long life comes to him who honours his father, he who sets his
mother at ease is showing obedience to the
Lord. My son, support your father in his old age,
do not grieve him during his life. Even if his mind should fail,
show him sympathy,
do not despise him in your health and strength; for kindness to
a father shall not be forgotten
but will serve as reparation for your sins.
Responsorial Psalm Psalm 127(128):1-5
Second reading Colossians 3:12-17
You are God’s chosen race, his saints; he loves you, and you
should be clothed in sincere compassion, in kindness and humility,
gentleness and patience. Bear with one another; forgive each other
as soon as a quarrel begins. The Lord has forgiven you; now you
must do the same. Over all these clothes, to keep them together and
complete them, put on love. And may the peace of Christ reign in
your hearts, because it is for this that you were called together
as parts of one body. Always be thankful.
Let the message of Christ, in all its richness, find a home with
you. Teach each other, and advise each other, in all wisdom. With
gratitude in your hearts sing psalms and hymns and inspired songs
to God; and never say or do anything except in the name of the Lord
Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Gospel Luke 2:22-35, 39-40
My eyes have seen your salvation When the day came for them to
be purified as laid down by the Law of Moses, the parents of Jesus
took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, – observing
what stands written in the Law of the Lord: Every first-born male
must be consecrated to the Lord – and also to offer in sacrifice,
in accordance with what is said in the Law of the Lord, a pair of
turtledoves or two young pigeons.
Now in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. He was an upright
and devout man; he looked forward to Israel’s comforting and the
Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy
Spirit that he would not see death until he had set eyes on the
Christ of the Lord. Prompted by the Spirit he came to the Temple
and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what
the Law required, he took him into his arms and blessed God; and he
said:
‘Now, Master, you can let your servant go in peace, just as you
promised; because my eyes have seen the salvation which you have
prepared for all the nations to see, a light to enlighten the
pagans and the glory of your people Israel.’
As the child’s father and mother stood there wondering at the
things that were being said about him, Simeon blessed them and said
to Mary his mother, ‘You see this child: he is destined for the
fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign
that is rejected – and a sword will pierce your own soul too – so
that the secret thoughts of many may be laid bare.’
When they had done everything the Law of the Lord required,
they went back to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.
Meanwhile the child grew to maturity, and he was filled with
wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.
Next Week’s Readings: The Epiphany of the Lord Is 60:1-6; Eph
3:2-3, 5-6; Mt 2:1-12
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