Latest “Parishioner”
“ The Parishioner ” St Mary’s Parish, Manuka St, Nelson 8/4/2012 Website: www.stmarysnelson.org.nz
Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord
The happy person is the involved person. Such a one enjoys festivals of life – like birthdays, first communions, confirmations, graduations, and marriages. Such a one sees problems like poverty, racism, and hunger, and tries to solve them. But occasionally such a one is tempted to lose hope – perhaps feeling abandoned by others in the struggle for justice and misunderstood by even closest friends and relatives.
Christians see help against despair in the celebration of Easter. The resurrection of our Lord is the central mystery of our faith, our chief festival of life. It gives hope to those who’ve lost it. It’s the day on which Jesus snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, vindicated his life and teachings, and confirmed our faith. It’s the most exciting event of the world history. It isn’t only an event that happened once in the experience of newness of life. The resurrection is a sign of God’s love – our hope: colouring Easter eggs, wearing nice clothes, dining together. Other Sundays are all “little Easters”. They celebrate the same ideas, which are at the heart of the Christian faith.
From “All Things Made New” by Harold A. Buetow, PhD, JD
DIARY DATES:
Please note that, as Easter Monday is a public holiday, the morning Mass will be celebrated at 9am. Catherine O’Regan’s funeral will be held on Tuesday at 2pm; there will be no midday Mass. Normal weekday Masses at 12.05pm will resume on Wednesday 11 April.
Come and join the Light of Christ Community in celebrating Easter!
At the Enner Glynn Community Hall
1.45-3.30pm TODAY Sunday 8 April
Prayer and Praise
Good Fellowship
Scrumptious Food
Easter Eggs
ALL WELCOME
” TOWARDS EASTER” – An Art Exhibition with a Christian theme by Rosalina McCarthy to be held at the Manna Christian Book Store, 73 Montgomery Square, Nelson from Monday 19 March to Tuesday 10 April. For further details, please contact rosalina@xtra.co.nz or Phone 03 545 1067.
DOVE CATHOLIC FELLOWSHIP FOR WOMEN warmly invites ALL WOMEN to a faith-filled gathering on SATURDAY 14 APRIL 2-4PM at OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP PARISH CENTRE, WILLIAM STREET, RICHMOND. All the new team look forward to meeting you, praising with you and sharing their testimonies. Contact Ann 5488723. Check out the national website to find out more…www.dove.org.nz
Scripture Study Group : No further meetings until Tuesday 17 April. Enquiries to Patrick 548-2524.
St Mary’s Prayer Group meets 23 April at 2pm. Please join us for praise and prayer in the Parish Centre, finishing with a cuppa about 4pm. Everyone most welcome, especially if you have special intentions at present. Enquiries to Giannina 545-0972 or Phyliss 547-9440.
Mainly Music: music and fun for littlies! No further meetings until after the school holidays, Friday 27 April. Contacts: Kathryn 545-2237 and Paula 548-7513.
Youth Group No further meetings until Friday 27 April in the Parish Meeting Rooms. Contact Kathryn 545-2237.
Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions
150th Jubilee – Friday 27th April
To all who have been part of the life and work of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions in Nelson, Sunnybank, Takaka, Motueka and all our Associates:
We invite you to join with us to celebrate the 150th year of the foundation of our Congregation, with Holy Mass at 12.05pm on 27 April at St Mary’s Church, followed by a finger food luncheon in the Parish Centre.
For catering purposes, please reply by email to montis@xtra.co.nz or by phone to the Convent 548 8578, or Annette 548 4224 or Pam 548 9619
Men Alive Men’s Weekend for the Archdiocese of Wellington. 28th & 29th April 2012. Organised by the Kapiti Parishes Men’s Group. An experienced team of Men Alive leaders from Brisbane will lead the weekend. Investment = $60. Aim to bring men together, to renew their faith in God and to encourage them to become an active force of renewal in the Church. Interested?
Contact Patrick Haughey 04 905 4467.
Jesus 4 Real Senior Camp 2012
When: Wednesday 11 – Sunday 15 April
Where: Palm Grove Christian Camp, Valley Road, Paraparaumu
The camp programme has a balance of outdoor activity/sports, skill-based “workshops”, lively Christian praise, energetic games, and spiritual teaching sessions, within a zany, competitive, and, at times noisy, environment.
All enquiries email: jesus4real@gmail.com or visit http://www.jesus4real.org.nz
Garden of Eden Dance – Blenheim
When: Saturday 19 May, 7.30pm -12
Where: St Mary’s Parish Hall, Blenheim
Fantastic food, prizes and music to get you dancing.
Bid of heaps of items and grab a bargain!
Performances by Slocken and the Young People of St Mary’s Parish.
Early bird tickets (before 1st May) $15, after 1st May, $20.
For tickets contact Mieke or Maurice, 03 578 6772
As from Sunday 15 April, the Sunday Evening Mass at St Francis of Assisi, Stoke, will be celebrated at 5.00pm.
TAIZE HOUR will recommence on Tuesday April 10th at 7.30pm in the chapel at St Francis of Assisi, Stoke and will be held every 2nd Tuesday of the month. All welcome ~ Diane Renwick 5473356
Request from Ken Orr, Secretary, Right to Life NZ Inc:
Our Society is aware of the need for prayer for God’s blessing on the Justices of the Supreme Court as they deliberate on their judgment following the hearing of our Society’s appeal on 13 March. A favourable judgment will mean that the Abortion Supervisory Committee will have a duty and the power to hold certifying consultants accountable for the lawfulness of the abortions that they authorise. The Justices will be under considerable spiritual attack and need God’s protection and direction. Please pray for the Supreme Court Justices…
Prolife Facts: Maryan Street, a Labour list MP, has put a proposal to the Labour Caucus that a Private Members Bill be presented to Parliament this year, to provide for euthanasia in New Zealand. The exact details of the proposed bill are not known at this stage. If it does not surface from the ballot, MPS will then vote on whether it should proceed to a Select Committee. An important point to bear in mind is that a number of MPs who are anti-euthanaisa could still vote for the bill to go to a Select Committee, because they may want to see public discussion and an opportunity to debate the issue.
A common assumption is that euthanasia is reserved for cases where people are suffering with terminal illness. However, in the Netherlands, people who are affected by non-terminal illness can be euthanized, and euthanasia is not always voluntary. For more information, visit www.voiceforlife.org.nz and www.righttolife.org.nz.
Headlines from the April 8 – 21 issue of NZ Catholic:
High-risk buildings face uncertain future in Wellington archdiocese. Seminar for teachers aims to boost their faith. Famous Paraparaumu statue gets a facelift. Soup kitchen legend wins a Local Heroes Award.
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THIS WEEK’S MASS TIME AND READINGS (except where a Requiem replaces the Mass of the Day): EASTER Monday 9am |
OCTAVE Acts 2:14, 22-33 |
Matthew 28:8-15 |
Psalm 16 |
|
Tuesday Requiem (Catherine O’Regan) 2pm |
Acts 2:36-41 |
John 20:11-18 |
Psalm 33 |
|
Wednesday 12.05pm |
Acts 3: 1-10 |
Luke 24:13-35 |
Psalm 105 |
|
Thursday 12.05pm |
Acts 3:11-26 |
Luke 24:35-48 |
Psalm 8 |
|
Friday 12.05pm |
Acts 4:13-21 |
John 21:1-14 |
Psalm 118 |
|
Saturday 10am |
Acts 4:13-21 |
Mark 16:9-15 |
Psalm 118 |
Timetable for HOLY WEEK AND EASTER.
SACRED TRIDUUM
Thursday 5th April: THURSDAY OF THE LORD’S SUPPER 7:30 p.m.
Friday 6th April: FRIDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 7th April: No morning Mass or Reconciliation
(VIGIL FOR) EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD 7:30 p.m.
8th April: SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION ……………………………………….OF THE LORD 8.30a.m. and 10a.m.
Easter Monday, 9th April: Mass (Public Holiday) 9: 00a.m.
Tuesday: Funeral Mass for Catherine O’Regan 2:00 p.m. Wednesday: Normal Mass times resume.
St Mary’s Parish, Manuka St, Nelson
5th Sunday in Lent: 25/3/12
Website: www.stmarysnelson.org.nz
In all things, always seeking God…
Each family of us is a little church. The tasks of service in front of our noses are God’s will for us; they are our part in building up the family of humankind…
Christ is most intimate to us when we recognise Christ in those with whom we live most intimately every day, in those with whom every day we share the sacrament of time. In our intercessory prayers for our intimates, for our extended families, for the people we work with, for the guys who collect the garbage, we are literally forming a web of truth, goodness, and beauty through which we are all becoming One Body in Christ. Our prayers of intercession weave the web of the Church into deeper communion – a unity the early Church called koinonia – until the Lord comes. We are each Websites for the Church and we are posting the Word of God to the world every day.
From “Bridges to Contemplative Living with Thomas Merton”.
DIARY DATES:
You are warmly invited to our Faith & Light Fiesta today – Sunday 25th March, 12.30pm at St Francis meeting rooms, 196 Songer St, Stoke.
Faith & Light is founded on the belief that each person with an intellectual disability is fully a person with all the rights of any human being, above all, the right to be loved, recognised and respected for him or herself. Each is unique and has a mysterious value.
“God has chosen the weak to confound the strong”. 1 Corinthians 1.27
For enquires phone: Cecily 5475717, Judy 5486253, Norah 5473108
Lenten Pilgrimage to St Mary’s Boys’ Orphanage Cemetery,
Ngawhatu:
As many parishioners will know, St Francis of Assisi Parish, Stoke, is responsible for maintaining the cemetery in which 26 young boys from St Mary’s orphanage lie buried. The orphanage was opened on 18 August, 1886 and closed in 1920. As a mark of respect for these children, and as a communal act of prayer and penance you are invited to visit their graves on Sunday, 25 March. We will gather in the car park near the baths at 2.00pm. Gates open at the end of Ngawhatu Road from 1.30pm. We will reflect on the Lord’s passion and death as we climb the hill and spend time in prayer at the cemetery.
For those unable to climb on foot, we will be providing two vehicles for transport to the top of the hill.
The Regional Youth & Family Mass will continue throughout 2012 and we look forward to worshipping together. Our first mass will be held at St. Francis Parish, Stoke tonight ( Sunday March 25th) at 7pm. Supper will be served afterwards, please bring a plate to share if you are able. If you would like to be involved, contact Rebekah 548 1751.
St Mary’s Prayer Group meets 26 March (tomorrow) at 2pm. Please join us for praise and prayer in the Parish Centre, finishing with a cuppa about 4pm. Everyone most welcome, especially if you have special intentions at present. Enquiries to Giannina 545-0972 or Phyliss 547- 9440.
Scripture Study Group : Tuesday 27 March. Meet in the Parish Meeting Room at 7pm. New members welcome. Enquiries to Patrick 548-2524.
Lenten Reflection/Prayer: All welcome to the Parish Meeting Room for a time of quiet reflection about the Lenten Season, using Thomas Merton’s “Bridges” material. Wednesday, 7.30pm.
Mainly Music - music and fun for littlies! All welcome! Friday 30 March. Parish Meeting Room, 9.30am start. Next meeting after the school holidays, Friday 27 April. Contacts: Kathryn 545-2237 and Paula 548- 7513.
A Lenten Meal:
Come and Share a meal of soup, savoury fare, tea, coffee and slices this Friday evening. Meet at the school hall at 6pm. The cost is a donation to the Parish at the door. There will be a short DVD Lenten reflection at 6.55pm following the meal, and then everyone is welcome to go to the Church at 7.30pm for Stations of the Cross.
Youth Group meet on Saturday the 31st March, 7pm in the Parish Meeting Rooms. All 11-18 year olds welcome. Next meeting Friday 27 April in the Parish Meeting Rooms. Contact Kathryn 545-2237.
A Warm Invitation
To join with Archbishop John and your priests as they renew their commitment to priestly service and to participate in the blessing of the Holy Oils during Mass on Monday, 2nd April at 7.00pm, in St Francis of Assisi Parish Church, Stoke.
The Holy Oils are used in the celebration of the Sacraments and their blessing takes place in a truly moving ceremony.
The Oil of Catechumens: used in Baptism
The Holy Chrism or “Oil of Gladness, is used in Confirmation, Baptism, Priestly Ordination.
The Oil of the Sick is for the anointing of those who are seriously ill and the elderly.
This is a wonderful way to start your celebration of Easter.
Headlines from the March 25–April 7 issue of NZ Catholic: Home of Compassion closes in Wanganui. Suicide rates lower in Catholic than in Protestant nations. Joy Cowley’s Easter book launched. The miracle that made Australia’s first saint.
Men Alive Men’s Weekend for the Archdiocese of Wellington. 28th & 29th April 2012. Organised by the Kapiti Parishes Men’s Group. An experienced team of Men Alive leaders from Brisbane will lead the weekend. Investment = $60. Aim to bring men together, to renew their faith in God and to encourage them to become an active force of renewal in the Church. Interested?
Contact Patrick Haughey 04 905 4467.
At the back of the church there is a box of toys to amuse little ones. The contents are in poor condition and donations of new or preloved toys would be very welcome… no tiny pieces please!
Seasons for Growth is offering a training course in dealing with change, loss and grief among adults. You are invited to come and learn about what happens when people grieve and to learn about possible ways of helping them. This course is especially valuable for those in bereavement ministry, youth ministry or family ministry and helpful to those who are grieving following a death, divorce or separation as well as any other major change such as immigration, redundancy or loss of health.
Training to Companion Adults
Dates: 19thand 20th of April, 2012
Days: Thursday and Friday
Time: 9am-3pm each day
Venue: Catholic Centre, Lecture Room – (Level One) Hill Street, Thorndon, Wellington
Cost: $ 115 (inclusive of GST)
Last date for Registration: 12thApril, 2012 (Thursday)
Contact: Esther Saldanha 04 496 5182 e.saldanha@wn.catholic.org.nz
Are you able to help? Over the past couple of years, the St. Vincent de Paul Nelson Area Council Vinnies have been supporting St. Mary’s Clinic in Nuku’alofa… collecting empty pill bottles, crepe bandages and other supplies to send over there. We were able to send a large box before Christmas which was gratefully received and has already been used. The Clinic is desperate for another box to go over. We have an 8kg box all ready to go. Is there anyone going to Tonga over the next little while, who may be able to take the box for us? If so please contact the
Vinnies Youth Co-ordinator, Philippa Winch either by e-mail at philippa@svdp-vinnies.org.nz or by phone on 544 1973.
The Vinnies are also on the lookout for jars with lids.. If you are able to assist us with this please contact Philippa at the contact details above.
” TOWARDS EASTER” – An Art Exhibition with a Christian theme by Rosalina McCarthy to be held at the Manna Christian Book Store, 73 Montgomery Square, Nelson from Monday 19 March to Tuesday 10 April. For further details, please contact rosalina@xtra.co.nz or Phone 03 545 1067.
ICONOGRAPHY WORKSHOP 16th-19th April
Learn to write your own icon! 4 days with live-in option available, limited class sizes. Tutors: Michael Pervan & Jenny Trolove – Studio of John the Baptist. For a Registration form and course outline contact
Jenny Trolove 021 0219 9091, info@sacredart.co.nz, or visit www.sacredart.co.nz
BILLINGS OVULATION METHOD – NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING – FERTILITY EDUCATION.
One of the leading Natural Fertility Methods, the Billings Ovulation Method, has been shown to have a ‘method safe rate’ of greater than 99% and is now being taught in 122 countries and independently trailed by the World Health Organisation.
The Billings Ovulation Method can be of benefit to all couples, it is completely natural, avoids artificial chemicals, promotes cooperation and respect between husband and wife, and poses no threat to future fertility. It is also very helpful for couples who are trying to conceive.
Billings is different from other NFP methods; it does not involve counting days (like the unreliable Rhythms Method) or monitoring Basil Body temperature.
The Billings web site thebillingsovulationmethod.org is a fantastic resource with access to scientific and research papers and has a great slide show presentation on the method.
Further Information is available at St Luke’s Health Centre Ph. 5481858 or phone Tutor Alicia Reeve at 5472811 or email bomnzalicia@hotmail.co.nz
The Way of the Cross: This prayerful walk with the cross begins at the Tahuna Beach carpark at 11am on Good Friday (10 April) replicating the journey Jesus took to Calvary. Following the walkway along Rocks Road, the group will stop at several points along the way for Scripture readings and reflection. The walk ends at the Cathedral Steps. This is a wonderful way to give silent witness to what Jesus suffered for us. ALL AGES WELCOME.
Contact: David &Stephanie Fisk – 5474544
| THIS WEEK’S MASS TIME AND READINGS (except where a Requiem replaces the Mass of the Day): Monday 8amAnnunciation | Isaiah 7:10-14,8:10Hebrews 10:4-10 | Luke 1:26-38 | Psalm 40 |
| Tuesday 12.05pm | Numbers 21:4-9 | John 8:21-30 | Psalm 102 |
| Wednesday 12.05pm | Daniel 3:14-20, 24-25, 28 | John 8:31-42 | Canticle Daniel |
| Thursday 12.05pm | Genesis 17:3-9 | John 8:51-59 | Psalm 105 |
The “Parishioner”
St Mary’s Parish, Manuka St, Nelson
3rd Sunday in Lent: 11/3/12
Website: www.stmarysnelson.org.nz
Jesus is the Living Temple
In John’s Gospel, hostility exists between Jesus and the Jews from the very beginning of his public ministry. This is probably a reflection of the situation in which John’s community finds itself – that of being excluded from the practice of Judaism after Christians had been ousted from synagogue worship. We should not, therefore, read this text as a criticism by Jesus of Judaism generally.
If we read this text only as an example of Jesus’ righteous anger over the greed of those who controlled commerce in the Temple precinct, we miss much of the point that John is making. The Jews believed that the offering of sacrifice to God in the Temple was a central part of their religious observance. Jesus now brings that practice to an end. He speaks of his own body as the new Temple, the new centre of worship. Effectively, Jesus is reinterpreting the religious traditions of the Jews to centre in himself. He becomes the physical embodiment of ‘my Father’s house”. He is the living Temple of the Father’s presence among us.
DIARY DATES:
St Mary’s Prayer Group meets 12 March (tomorrow) at 2pm. Please join us for praise and prayer in the Parish Centre, finishing with a cuppa about 4pm. Everyone most welcome, especially if you have special intentions at present. Enquiries to Giannina 545-0972 or Phyliss 547-9440.
Scripture Study Group : Tuesday 13 March. Meet in the Parish Meeting Room at 7pm. New members welcome. Enquiries to Patrick 548-2524.
Lenten Reflection/Prayer: All welcome to the Parish Meeting Room for a time of quiet reflection about the Lenten Season, using Thomas Merton’s “Bridges” material. Wednesday, 7.30pm.
Mainly Music - music and fun for littlies! All welcome! Friday 16 March. Parish Meeting Room, 9.30am start. Contacts: Kathryn 545-2237 and Paula 548-7513.
A Lenten Meal:
Come and Share a meal of soup, savoury fare, tea, coffee and slices this Friday evening. Meet at the school hall at 6pm. The cost is a donation to the Parish at the door. There will be a short DVD Lenten reflection at 6.55pm following the meal, and then everyone is welcome to go to the Church at 7.30pm for Stations of the Cross.
Youth Group meet on Saturday the 17th March, 7pm in the Parish Meeting Rooms. All 11-18 year olds welcome. Contact Kathryn 545-2237.
Parishioners are warmly invited to two talks that are to be given by
Fr Maurice Carmody (parish priest of Stoke).
Fr Maurice is a noted church historian.
Talk 1 ‘St Francis of Assisi’ Tue 13 March. (Fr Maurice is the author of a recent book on the life of St Francis).
Talk 2: ‘Suzanne Aubert’ foundress of the Sisters of Compassion. Tue 20 March.
Both talks at Richmond Parish Centre,
7.30-9pm.
Male Sexual Abuse – Victims/Survivors
There is little support and education for this issue. Don’t miss this free opportunity to learn more about myths around male victims/survivors of childhood sexual abuse, issues facing Māori and Pacific male victims/survivors, old and current research , signs & symptoms of boys who have been or are being abused. 14th March, Trafalgar Park Pavilion, Trafalgar St, 12.30-4.30pm. No charge. For more information or to register email Jolene.salmond@barnardos.org.nz.
Sacraments of Initiation: First Reconciliation on Thursday 22 March, Confirmation (Pastoral Area Ceremony) on Sunday 2 September with Archbishop Dew, and First Eucharist on Sunday 25 November. Children’s meeting at 2pm next Sunday, 18 March, in the Parish Meeting Room. Parents please join us at 3pm for a rehearsal of the actual ceremony.
Lenten Pilgrimage to St Mary’s Boys’ Orphanage Cemetery
Ngawhatu
As many parishioners will know, St Francis of Assisi parish, Stoke, is responsible for maintaining the cemetery in which 26 young boys from St Mary’s orphanage lie buried. The orphanage was opened on 18 August, 1886 and closed in 1920. As a mark of respect for these children, and as a communal act of prayer and penance you are invited to visit their graves on Sunday, 25 March, at 2.00pm. We will reflect on the Lord’s passion and death as we climb the hill and spend time in prayer at the cemetery.
For those unable to climb on foot, we will try to provide four-wheel drive transport. We already have the promise of one vehicle and if anyone else could help out, please let Fr Maurice know (0212514042). Further details later.
Men Alive Men’s Weekend for the Archdiocese of Wellington. 28th & 29th April 2012. Organised by the Kapiti Parishes Men’s Group. An experienced team of menAlive leaders from Brisbane will lead the weekend. Investment = $60. Aim to bring men together, to renew their faith in God and to encourage them to become an active force of renewal in the Church. Interested?
Contact Patrick Haughey 04 905 4467.
Letter from Fr Bryan Parish, Parish Priest of New Brighton Parish and St James Aranui:
Dear Parishioners of St Mary’s Nelson,
I wish to acknowledge and thank you for your kind donation of $1285.30… I have delayed handing out your donation until the winter months when the parishioners here struggle with weekly debt especially power… On behalf of St James Thank you again and may God bless you at this time and Easter…
The Parish Emails system is working very well keeping you informed of late information but please note:
1. If you have recently changed your Email address please update by sending a blank Email (subject “Parish Emails”) to pcronin@clear.net.nz.
2. If you are not yet on our Email list it is simple to get on it by sending a blank Email (subject “Parish Emails”) to pcronin@clear.net.nz
Irish Congress Tour 2012 Escorted by Archbishop John Dew 50th International Eucharistic Conference A 19 Day Pilgrimage Journey Departing 2nd June 2012
Support Archbishop John Dew on this wonderful escorted Eucharistic Congress tour with a fantastic sightseeing tour of some of Ireland’s finest landmarks.
Cost $9490, details on the foyer noticeboard.
Headlines from the March 11–24 issue of NZ Catholic: Priest an earthquake lifesaver. Abortion clinic closes after prayers of exorcism. Tiny Manawatu parish a powerful community. Plans announced for Dunedin basilica.
Masses have been requested and have or will be said for:
Bryan Donnelly, Donahue Daniel, John Monopoli, Joan Carlton, Jim and Emma Romano, Alfredo and Angelina Miccio, Cataldo Miccio, Bet Keenan, Jack Keenan and Fr Geoff Broad.
Take some time this lent to pray. Maybe the new archdiocesan website could help – check out pray the week at http://www.wn.catholic.org.nz/celebrating-god/prayer/pray-week
The Archdiocese of Wellington has a new Facebook and Twitter account to coincide with the New Website so check out the links below:
Visit the new Website – http://www.wn.catholic.org.nz
“like” the Archdiocesan facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/catholicwellington
“follow” the Archdiocese on twitter – http://twitter.com/#!/catholicadw
Are you able to help? Over the past couple of years, the St. Vincent de Paul Nelson Area Council Vinnies have been supporting St. Mary’s Clinic in Nuku’alofa. As you will be aware our recent efforts in supporting this clinic have involved collecting empty pill bottles, crepe bandages and other supplies to send over there. We were able to send a large box before Christmas which was gratefully received and has already been used. The Clinic is desperate for another box to go over. We have an 8kg box all ready to go. Is there anyone going to Tonga over the next little while, who may be able to take the box for us? If so please contact the Vinnies Youth Co-ordinator, Philippa Winch either by e-mail at philippa@svdp-vinnies.org.nz or by phone on 544 1973.
The Vinnies are also on the lookout for jars with lids.. If you are able to assist us with this please contact Philippa at the contact details above.
Many thanks in advance for your assistance.
Saint Patrick – Feast 17 March
Little is known of Patrick’s early life, though it is known that he was born in Roman Britain in the 4th century, into a wealthy Romano-British family. His father and grandfather were deacons in the Church. At age 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken captive to Ireland as a slave. According to his Confession, he was told by God in a dream to flee from captivity to the coast, where he would board a ship and return to Britain. Upon returning, he quickly joined the Church in Auxerre in Gaul and studied to be a priest.
He again said that he was called back to Ireland in 432, though as a bishop, to convert the Irish to Christianity. Irish tradition tells that one of his teaching methods included using the shamrock to explain the Trinity. After nearly 30 years of evangelism, he died on 17 March 461, and (according to tradition) was buried at Downpatrick. Although other successful missions followed, Patrick endured as the principal apostle of Irish Christianity.
| THIS WEEK’S MASS TIME AND READINGS (except where a Requiem replaces the Mass of the Day): Monday 8am | 2Kings 5:1-15 | Luke 4:24-30 | Psalm 42 |
| Tuesday 12.05pm | Daniel 3:25, 34-43 | Matthew 18:21-35 | Psalm 25 |
| Wednesday 12.05pm | Deut 4:1, 5-9 | Matthew 5:17-19 | Psalm 147B |
| Thursday 12.05pm | Jeremiah 7:23-28 | Luke 11:14-23 | Psalm 95 |
| Friday 12.05pm | Hosea 14:2-10 37:3-28 | Mark 12:28-34 | Psalm 81 |
| St Patrick’s Day 10am | Jeremiah 1:4-9Acts 13:46-49 | Luke 10: 1-2, 17-20 | Psalm 106 |
The Transfiguration 2nd Sunday in Lent: 4/3/12
Our faith is really tested when disasters hit us and that is when we need to cling to those cherished times in the past when our faith was filled with light. Today we see Jesus preparing Peter, James and John for that overwhelming test of their faith when all their hopes and dreams would appear to be dashed at the crucifixion.
At the Transfiguration Jesus allowed them to see the light of His Godhead break through the veil of His human nature. The experience was something that they could never forget, no matter what dark moments they had to face in the future.
Many years later Peter recalls the joy of that light and offers us the same encouragement: “You will do well to pay attention to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts” (2 Peter1:19)
If we follow Peter’s advice the encouragement will enable us to live out the season of Lent effectively keeping our eyes on the glory of Easter and the glory of eternal life.
DIARY DATES:
St Mary’s Prayer Group meets 5 March (tomorrow) at 2pm. Please join us for praise and prayer in the Parish Centre, finishing with a cuppa about 4pm. Everyone most welcome, especially if you have special intentions at present. Enquiries to Giannina 545-0972 or Phyliss 547-9440.
St Vincent de Paul invite sick, senior and other parishioners to a Mass of Anointing, 2pm, Tuesday 6 March, in St Mary’s Church. This will be followed by afternoon tea in the Parish Meeting Room. For transport, ph 548-3591.
Scripture Study Group : Tuesday 6 March. Meet in the Parish Meeting Room at 7pm. New members welcome. Enquiries to Patrick 548-2524.
Lenten Reflection/Prayer: All welcome to the Parish Meeting Room for a time of quiet reflection about the Lenten Season, using Thomas Merton’s “Bridges” material. Wednesday, 7.30pm.
Mainly Music - music and fun for littlies! All welcome! Friday 9 March. Parish Meeting Room, 9.30am start. Contacts: Kathryn 545-2237 and Paula 548-7513.
A Lenten Meal:
Come and Share a light meal of soup, rolls, tea, coffee and biscuits on 5 Fridays of Lent from the 2nd – 30th March. Meet at the school hall at 6pm. The cost is a donation to the Parish at the door. There will be a short DVD Lenten reflection at 7pm following the meal, and then everyone is welcome to go to the Church at 7.30pm for Stations of the Cross.
CATHOLIC MENS BREAKFAST: 7.30am, Saturday 10th March – St Mary’s Parish Centre Meeting Room, Manuka St, Nelson. Guest Speaker: Dr Joseph Hassan who will be speaking on Mens Health Issues. Gold Coin Collection to cover costs of the Breakfast Supplies. Please contact Peter McBride on 027 7487114 or 5488723 for further details and to advise of your attendance at this Breakfast.
Dove Catholic Fellowship for Women: National Team warmly invites all women to join them Saturday 10 March 2-4pm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Centre, William Street, Richmond, Nelson. Val Morrison will speak on “Beautiful Women, I have Searched You and I Know You”.
Contact Ann 03 548 8723.
Youth Group meet on Saturday the 10th March, 7pm in the Parish Meeting Rooms. All 11-18 year olds welcome. Contact Kathryn 545-2237.
Seasons for Growth Training Course dealing with change, loss and grief among children and youth. Learn about what happens when people grieve, and possible ways of helping them. 8th, 9thand 10thof March, 2012. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. 92-94 Neale Avenue, Stoke.
Contact: Esther Saldanha (04) 4965182
e.saldanha@wn.catholic.org.nz
Parishioners are warmly invited to two talks that are to be given by
Fr Maurice Carmody (parish priest of Stoke).
Fr Maurice is a noted church historian.
Talk 1 ‘St Francis of Assisi’ Tue 13 March. (Fr Maurice is the author of a recent book on the life of St Francis).
Talk 2: ‘Suzanne Aubert’ foundress of the Sisters of Compassion. Tue 20 March.
Both talks at Richmond Parish Centre,
7.30-9pm.
Lenten Pilgrimage to St Mary’s Boys’ Orphanage Cemetery
Ngawhatu
As many parishioners will know, St Francis of Assisi parish, Stoke, is responsible for maintaining the cemetery in which 26 young boys from St Mary’s orphanage lie buried. The orphanage was opened on 18 August, 1886 and closed in 1920. As a mark of respect for these children, and as a communal act of prayer and penance you are invited to visit their graves on Sunday, 25 March, at 2.00pm. We will reflect on the Lord’s passion and death as we climb the hill and spend time in prayer at the cemetery.
For those unable to climb on foot, we will try to provide four-wheel drive transport. We already have the promise of one vehicle and if anyone else could help out, please let Fr Maurice know (0212514042). Further details later.
Sacraments of Initiation: First Reconciliation on Thursday 22 March, Confirmation (Pastoral Area Ceremony) on Sunday 2 September with Archbishop Dew, and First Eucharist on Sunday 25 November.
If your child is 8 years of age on 1st May 2012, and you would like him/her in the preparation programme please visit Carla in the Parish Office (Wed-Fri 9am-12) to collect registration forms and material for your child, or phone 539- 1251 with any questions. Second children’s meeting at 9.30am next Sunday, 11 March, in the Parish Meeting Room.
Children’s Day is being celebrated in NZ today, Sunday 4 March.
The theme is Love and Affection.
Please pray for children every day.
A CARITAS prayer card is enclosed with this newsletter.
In Wel-com for March:
What Catholic agencies are saying about the government’s Green Paper for Children
The first anniversary of the big Christchurch quake
The Church’s view of Mary in its first thousand years
As well as lots about children, teachers and popes.
All in Wel-com, our diocesan newspaper, and you get a whole month to read it!
Looking for reliable Natural Family Planning?
NFNZ Fertility educators teach the Sympto-Thermal method of Natural Family Planning. Compatible with NZ Ministry of Health and WHO guidelines. Private and confidential sessions available. For all your Natural Family Planning needs, please contact our Accredited Nelson educator Kathy Houghton, Ph 539 0644
Email kathy.hou@xtra.co.nz www.naturalfertility.co.nz
The Parish Council met on 16 February. They discussed the overhaul of the diocesan website, our parish’s donation of $1400 to Aranui parish, the next parish forum and property maintenance, including the change to three parking spaces for the disabled beside the Church. Next meeting 15 March. Any items or queries, phone the Secretary Patrick on 5482524 or email pcronin@clear.net.nz.
Men Alive Men’s Weekend for the Archdiocese of Wellington. 28th & 29th April 2012. Organised by the Kapiti Parishes Men’s Group. An experienced team of menAlive leaders from Brisbane will lead the weekend. Investment = $60. Aim to bring men together, to renew their faith in God and to encourage them to become an active force of renewal in the Church. Interested? Contact Patrick Haughey 04 905 4467.
Male Sexual Abuse – Victims/Survivors
There is little support and education for this issue. Don’t miss this free opportunity to learn more about myths around male victims/survivors of childhood sexual abuse, issues facing Māori and Pacific male victims/survivors, old and current research , signs & symptoms of boys who have been or are being abused. 14th March, Trafalgar Park Pavilion, Trafalgar St, 12.30-4.30pm. No charge. For more information or to register email Jolene.salmond@barnardos.org.nz.
Many young people today are faced with challenges that they feel ill-equipped to cope with. Fortunately, there are church and other organisations committed to stepping in and giving these young people the help they require. One of these is a charitable trust called Miomo that equips 17-24 year olds with life and work skills to lead independent and successful lives. Visit www.miomo.co.nz.
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THIS WEEK’S MASS TIME AND READINGS (except where a Requiem replaces the Mass of the Day): Monday 8am |
Daniel 9:4-10 |
Luke 6 36-38 |
Psalm 79 |
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Tuesday 12.05pm |
Isaiah 1,16-20 |
Matthew 23 1-12 |
Psalm 58 |
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Wednesday 12.05pm |
Jeremiah 18:18-20 |
Matthew 20:17-28 |
Psalm 31 |
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Thursday 12.05pm |
Jeremiah 17:5-10 |
Luke 16 19-31 |
Psalm 1 |
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Friday 12.05pm |
Genesis 37:3-28 |
Matthew 21 33-46 |
Psalm 105 |
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Saturday 10am |
Micah 7:14-20 |
Luke 15 1-32 |
Psalm 103 |
Posted in Parishioners
Welcome to our Parish Website
Welcome to the website of St Mary’s Church in Nelson, New Zealand. Here you will find the latest news and information about our parish and the Catholic Church. We hope you enjoy your visit and encourage you to check back often for updates.
Posted in New Post