St Patrick’s Parish Oamaru, Kurow, , & Hampden DECEMBER 2020 68 Reed Street Oamaru JANUARY 2021 Phone: 03-434-8543 Email: [email protected] Parish Priest: Father Wayne Healey Parish Centre Administrator:Elaine Hurley Phone: 03-434-8543 Father’s Emergency Mobile 027-348-7681 Volume XXXVIII Issue XI Website: www.oamarubasilica.org

MASS TIMES BASILICA Saturday, Vigil Mass 5:00pm (68 Reed St Oamaru) Sunday 9:30am

KUROW 1st & 3rd Sundays 12:00 Noon (Sacred Heart Church) (Main Road Kurow)

HAMPDEN 2nd & 4th Sundays 11:30am Our Lady Star of the Sea Church (Hampden) WEEKDAY MASSES ETC DEAN O’REILLY LOUNGE Mon-Tue-Wed-Fri 9:15am (Replaced by a Funeral Mass) 1st Friday 9:15am Mass of Anointing Thursdays 9:15am (During school holidays etc)

BASILICA Thursdays 9:15am (During Term times)

ST KEVIN’S (Chapel) y Frida 12:20pm (57 Taward St) - Except School Holidays and any term breaks RECONCILIATION (Basilica) Thursday after Mass

ROSARY (Lounge) Wednesday after 9:15am Mass COMMUNITY ROSARY (Lounge) Saturday 2:00pm

Dear Parishioners By the time you read this letter I will have the newest and best hip in North from 27th November. Well that’s my story anyway. I certainly hope so. However, this year since March has been one of uncertainty. COVID-19 has and continues to create havoc, fatalities, depression, hardship, economic ruin and violence to name some of the atrocities inflicted upon the world over. It comes home to us how vulnerable the human being really is and the need to be vigilant and not take too much for granted. The season of Advent has begun and we strive to prepare ourselves for the celebration of Christ Jesus’ birth once again. May we treasure the gift of Christ and that more and more will return and see the wonderful gift Christ Jesus is to humanity. In wishing you a very Happy Christmas I would like to thank you all. Christmas Day is very special but you are gifts to me and within the parish all year round for which I truly appreciate and learn from your examples both young and old in season and out of season. Blessings to you all Fr. Wayne Editorial DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021 ROSTERS There are three Gospel readings for Christmas Day. Morning Tea Sunday The first for Midnight Mass, the second for Dawn 6/12/2020 Espie Orlowski Mass and the third for Daytime Mass. The daytime Mass 13/12/2020 Roseanne Sheridan is taken from the Gospel of John and starts with ‘In 20/12/2020 Demi McLaren the beginning,’ John in his gospel refers us back to the 27/12/2020 Vanita Malekar creation of the earth but speaks of a presence already 3/01/2021 Eufrosina Finlayson there which was the Word. ’In the beginning was the 10/01/2021 Stephanie Leong Son Word and the Word was in God’s presence and the Word 17/01/2021 Espie Orlowski was God. This Word was present to God and through this 24/01/2021 Roseanne Sheridan Word all things came into being.’ God was not alone at 31/01/2021 Demi McLaren the creation; the Word was there present, and this Word 7/02/2021 Vanita Malekar became flesh and dwelt among us. Counters In Wisdom 18 we are told that this almighty Word leapt 6/12/2020 Ria Keogh down to be with us. When we go leaping about it is as 6/12/2020 Christine Hall if we are filled with exuberance and excitement. This 6/12/2020 Mary Dwyer Christmas we recall and remember this mighty deed 13/12/2020 Gloria Mansfield when God came among us to be one with us. Came with 13/12/2020 Carmen Sutherland excitement so that each of us can share in this fullness 20/12/2020 Dave Marriott of God; not just at Christmas but each day and in every 20/12/2020 Larraine Marriott event of our life. The excitement of Christmas is so 27/12/2020 Pat Finlay present when small children unwrapping gifts go leaping 27/12/2020 Anthea Finlay about and get so excited seeing parcels under the tree 3/01/2021 Lorraine Bremner wondering what is for them and what will be hidden 3/01/2021 Marie Watson under that paper. 10/01/2021 Frank Plieger What will be the hidden gift of God for each of us this 10/01/2021 Sally Galvin Year? I don’t yet know. Perhaps it will be a new life or the 10/01/2021 Gina Fox ending of an old life. Perhaps a joy of something new but 17/01/2021 Mary Watson perhaps a burden to be carried. Yet each is a gift if we can 17/01/2021 Ngaire Henderson view it like that. 17/01/2021 Marion Morris 'Word' is an interesting metaphor to use for this 24/01/2021 Susan Henderson presence. We use words to express what we are feeling, 24/01/2021 Bernadette Rawson and we search for words to express what we don’t yet 31/01/2021 Ria Keogh know. Often words take on a life of their own. A poet uses 31/01/2021 Christine Hall words to say something important to him or herself but 31/01/2021 Mary Dwyer when I read the words, they become my own and take 7/02/2021 Gloria Mansfield on new life. I bring to the words images and experiences 7/02/2021 Carmen Sutherland that I have which the creator of the original words didn’t Church Cleaners have, and I give the words new meaning. 6/12/2020 Jenny Nyika So it is with this Word of God. This Word is forever new, 13/12/2020 Anthea Finlay giving life and newness in every generation never old; 13/12/2020 Coleen Blackmore forever a life renewed as we keep celebrating Christmas 20/12/2020 Anthea Finlay after Christmas year in year out. All our Christmases are 20/12/2020 Coleen Blackmore forever different like a renewing of all that is within us. 27/12/2020 Tony Perniskie Other gospels give us other images of the glory that came 27/12/2020 Bev Conlan among us in the form of angels singing and the brightest 3/01/2021 Tony Perniskie of stars shining glory all around. 3/01/2021 Bev Conlan John in the Gospel says ‘ Of this Word’s fulness we have 10/01/2021 Tony Kearns all had a share – love following upon love. For while the 10/01/2021 Pauline Orr law, as given through Moses, this enduring love came 17/01/2021 Tony Kearns through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God 17/01/2021 Pauline Orr the Only Begotten, ever at our Creator’s side who has 24/01/2021 Sharny Guthrie revealed God to us! 24/01/2021 Anne Sutherland May your Christmas be filled with the love and glory 31/01/2021 Sharny Guthrie of God. Sr Mary Horn 31/01/2021 Anne Sutherland 7/02/2021 Gloria Mansfield 7/02/2021 Roseanne Sheridan Altar Society Rosters continued Lounge & Parish Cleaning Altar Soc.Flowers 3/12/2020 Jenny Nyika Dec-20 Glenys Kearns 10/12/2020 Bev Conlan Jan-21 Jan Plieger 17/12/2020 Bev Conlan Feb-21 Glenys Kearns 24/12/2020 No Cleaning required 31/12/2020 No Cleaning required Altar Soc.Linen 7/01/2021 No Cleaning required 6/12/2020 Mary Watson 14/01/2021 No Cleaning required 13/12/2020 Anthea Finlay 21/01/2021 Susan Finlay 20/12/2020 Anthea Finlay 28/01/2021 Susan Finlay 27/12/2020 Sally Galvin 4/02/2021 Anthea Finlay 3/01/2021 Sally Galvin 11/02/2021 Anthea Finlay 10/01/2021 Cally McKenzie 17/01/2021 Cally McKenzie 24/01/2021 Jeanette Mansfield VOLUNTEERS This is your responsibility. 31/01/2021 Jeanette Mansfield Please arrange a replacement if you 7/02/2021 Laurette Robinson are not available for the Altar Soc.Cleaning time or date rostered. 6/12/2020 Anthea Finlay 13/12/2020 Phillipa Jones 20/12/2020 Phillipa Jones St Patrick's Parish 27/12/2020 Judy Linwood Prayer Group 3/01/2021 Judy Linwood 10/01/2021 Cally McKenzie “Glory to God in the highest and on 17/01/2021 Cally McKenzie earth peace to those on whom His 24/01/2021 Gloria Mansfield favour rests.” Luke 2:14 31/01/2021 Gloria Mansfield We wish all our Parish Family a very Happy and Holy 7/02/2021 Soane & Tuavale Misiloi Christmas and all God's richest blessings and safe travels in the New Year. Our Christmas function will be on the Altar Soc.Brass Cleaning December 1st December and we will restart our prayer meetings on Dec-20 Margaret Pink the 2nd Feb 2021. Dec-20 Marion Morris For enquiries, prayer requests or a visit phone Maurice 437 0338 or Fely 434 9118 Oamaru Churches Foodbank Remember the Food Bank PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS every Sunday of the month.

St Vincent de Paul Society

Opportunity Shop Tees Street Oamaru Hours: Monday 1pm-4pm Tuesday to Friday 10am-4pm

We wish to thank everyone for their donations as the sale of these items assists people in need.

All Enquiries to 434-5565 Happenings Today's Readings Baptisms: 6th DECEMBER 2020 We welcome into our Parish Family 2nd SUNDAY OF ADVENT Natalia McClellan

Deaths: We remember in our Prayers Sr Madeleie McAleese OP Fr Frank Ferry SSC Introduction to the Mass Emma Kimura John the Baptist described himself as a voice which Mark Daly cries in the wilderness. Some people heard him and Esme Reisinger responded, preparing their hearts to welcome God James Thorn into their lives in a new and unexpected way. Aida King First Reading: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 God tells the people of Israel to be consoled: they have Lost and Found Group paid the price of their sins and now must prepare a way The last lunch will be at the Oamaru for the Lord in a repentant heart. Club, Sunday 13th. If you wish to join us, contact Blackmore's 434-8133 Second Reading: 2 Peter 3: 8-14 to confirm numbers by We are waiting for God to bring about the long-promised Wednesday 9th new heavens and new earth. In the meantime, we should live good lives and be at peace. Phoenix Family Group Everyone is welcome to a Pot Luck Gospel of Mark 1: 1-8 Lunch in the Dean O’Reilly Lounge John the Baptist appeared, promising that he was preparing every 4th Sunday of the month. the way for someone greater than himself. He baptized Restarting Feb 2021-Nov 2021 with water but the one whose coming he foretold would with Grace at 12 noon. baptize with the Holy Spirit. Enquiries to: Caring Burgess 434-5320 ------PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

Please remember St Patrick's Parish in your Will. Why not speak to your lawyer about it? 49 Humber Street Form of bequest Oamaru I give to the St Patrick's Slade Pauling & Parish Oamaru the sum of Paul Searle Funeral Directors $......

Personal and Caring Service For general purposes (or name of specific purpose) Meaningful funerals and I declare that the receipt promote healthy grieving by the Parish Priest for the time being of St Patrick's Phone 434-8266 - 24 hours Basilica shall be sufficient Proud to be locally owned discharge for this gift. Focusing On The Lord's Prayer Lead Us Not Into Temptation. – Here we acknowledge Jesus himself gave us The Lord’s Prayer, found in Luke that free will brings with it our own human weaknesses. 11:1-4 and Matthew 6: 9-13. One of the disciples asked Jesus God does not of course lead us into temptation. We pray how to pray and He responded to them (and for us) with to God to extend a guiding hand to grant us discernment a short prayer that perfectly summarizes what Christians and show us how to overcome our weaknesses. believe and how Christians should live. Deliver Us From Evil. – This petition covers the many The prayer opens with an address to Our Father who art in times we do fall into temptation and sin. We ask that Heaven. This acknowledges and reaffirms that God is indeed God liberates us from evil’s grip and also protects us in all our universal, one and only heavenly Parent or Father. circumstances. Hallowed be Thy Name – this affirms that God’s name is For Thine is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory holy and sanctified. The Lord’s Prayer finishes by acknowledging fully that God Thy Kingdom Come – In this we pray firstly for the Kingdom is the one and final power for forever and ever, Amen. here and now and secondly, we pray for the promise of the new Heaven and new Earth that The Lord’s prayer is more than a handy guide we will be part of some day. or prayer to say glibly. If we fully meditate on Thy Will Be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven. each section it becomes a moral compass that – Praying this petition is an act of surrendering focusses on what is really important. It shows us to the will of God. We ask that God gives us too the best way to approach God for guidance strength to follow His will and not our own. and protection. Give Us This Day our Daily Bread. – Just as good food nourishes our body, so the Good News nourishes our soul. Thus, we pray for spiritual sustenance, Thank You the nourishment that comes from God’s Word, To everyone who has helped with articles for the (John 6: 48 – 50 “Whoever feeds on this bread will live Parishioner during the year my sincere thanks. Thanks, also forever”) to Coleen Blackmore my proof reader. To our advertisers, Forgive Us Our Trespasses as We Forgive Those Who we could not have this printed for free without your help Trespass Against Us. – Forgiving can be one of the hardest and support. Please enjoy this latest double issue and things to do and follow. There is much wisdom in this will see you with the February issue on the 7th February petition. Anyone can ask for God’s forgiveness, but the way 2021. Articles can be sent anytime up until the closing we forgive others leads us on to patience and grace. By date of 24th January 2021. Please let us know of anything forgiving others we can walk more confidently towards God, happening in our parish. sure of God’s forgiveness and mercy. Judy Moffat - Editor

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by the Big Blue Cross The sign of quality animal healthcare Phone 03 434 5666 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR Printed by ADVERTISERS A Commitment to Search Parish Day of Reflection and Planning, The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin. St Kevin's College, 23rd January 2021 Matthew 18: 12 Father John O'Connor, who gave the keynote address “If a shepherd has a hundred sheep, and one of them at our gathering in January this year, has agreed to be has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the our keynote speaker again this coming January. This mountains and go in search of the one that went astray.” year's talk by Fr John, which addressed the question "Where is Pope Francis leading the church?" was well Luke 15: 8 received and highly valued. The suggestion for 2021 “What woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of is that he unpack Fratelli Tutti, the recent encyclical them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search of Pope Francis. According to Ronald Rolheiser, until she finds it.” writing in an article in NZ Catholic, in this encyclical Jesus must have intended the parables of the lost Pope Francis lays out reasons why there is so much sheep and the lost coin to answer those who criticised injustice, inequality and community breakdown in him for preaching to outcasts and sinners in society. our world, and how in faith and love these might be He challenges his listeners to put themselves in the addressed. The Pope devotes an entire chapter of position of a person who has lost something. Fratelli Tutti to the parable of the Good Samaritan, The point of both stories is that people go to great lengths saying that the parable answers the age-old question, to recover a lost possession. “Am I my brother's keeper?”This could be the theme In the same way God will go to great trouble to win back of reflection in small groups during our Parish Day. just one of his lost children. This, Jesus suggests, should We are aware that a number of questions be a matter for rejoicing. raised at this year's Parish Day have not yet been What are the things people in our modern world are addressed because of the pandemic and also our likely to fret about losing? parish's involvement with concerns about future In our society we spend a lot of time and energy redevelopment of St Joseph's School. We plan to recovering lost possessions. Did anyone say, “car keys”, address these matters on January 23rd. or “credit card”. Think, too, about those who are lost, such as the homeless, the unemployed, the alcoholics and addicts. It can be difficult, too, for people to break free of Next Sunday's Readings habits and past reputations. 13th DECEMBER 2020 How do you think society views and acts towards God’s 3rd SUNDAY OF ADVENT wish to bring home these people who are separated from First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-2, 10-11 Him? 2nd Reading: 1 Thessolonians 5: 16-24 When we believe and accept God’s love, we can pass it Gospel: John 1:6-8, 19-28 on with the same single mindedness of the shepherd and the woman who lost the coin. This, then, becomes indeed a cause for joyful celebration.

Note from the Parish Office This is a joyous season to take a step back from our busy lives and enjoy time with our loved ones. May the Christmas season end the present year on a cheerful note and make way for a fresh and bright New Year. Wishing you and your family a safe and blessed Christmas. Elaine Hurley - Parish Administrator Next Issue of Parishioner 7th Feb 2021 Closing Date for all copy is 24th January 2021 Please hand in copy EARLY Email: Judy on [email protected] or to Secretary’s Office at Parish Centre Sister Mary Madeleine McAleese OP in the Lord, possibly more time asleep than awake. Last Sunday, when reading the Gospel about the wise However, keep in mind the inspired words from St and unwise bridesmaids, my mind turned to Sister Paul’s Letter to the Romans proclaimed in the Mass Madeleine being, of course, the wise bridesmaid with a today; “For when we cannot choose words in order to jar full of oil. I pictured her as having the biggest jar of pray properly, the Spirit himself expresses our plea in oil, filled to overflowing, and imagining her offering the a way that could never be put into words.” Sleeping she unwise ones the chance to catch the drips before they might have been in the Lord’s presence, but the Spirit dropped to the ground and soaking into the dirt floor. will have ensured it was an acceptable time of prayer. That Gospel, fitting as it is, couldn’t be used today. We She learned the Truth – schooled at St Joseph’s, Port are under instructions to use the Hymns and Readings Chalmers and at St Dominic’s College here in – her she chose, etched in stone, many years ago. There’s no education was founded on the rock of faith. However, I doubting, she would be in the category of the wise ones. would go so far as to say there was some devilment her Sister Madeleine, to her sisters in religion, Monica, to her life. I can’t imagine her travelling by train from Warrington family, Auntie M to some of us nieces and nephews, who to Port Chalmers for her Primary Schooling, and to Dunedin dared be cheeky enough to call her so, was for Secondary Schooling without ever unique among the McAleese family. She having fun, getting up to mischief. She was the only one with a second Christian continued to learn the Truth down name. On the occasion of her Golden through the years especially through Jubilee of Profession, I made mention her involvement in Scripture groups. of this and when I revealed her second She taught the Truth – journeying Christian Name to be Mildred, I received around many parishes over the years, that steely McAleese look, and a waved we have picked up the appreciation and finger. Her life being filled with what respect she was held in by her former can be called the “Dominican Counsel” pupils. Comments – she always had time meant that for many of the Sisters in the for us – a great teacher, especially as Church that night that was the first time a science teacher – took extra classes they had ever heard she had a second outside school hours because the Christian name, let alone it being Mildred. subject choices couldn’t be fitted in to Like a cat she had many lives – almost the school day. Her mission of Teaching electrocuted when cleaning and polishing took her to many schools – Primary the floor to a mirror in Rosary Hall prior to Christmas School teaching in Dunedin and Oamaru; Secondary at one year; meningitis and upset she was referred to St Catherine’s, Invercargill; Teschemakers, Oamaru; St in the ODT as an elderly person from Oamaru – she Dominic’s, Dunedin and St Dominic’s, Henderson; back to was only in her 70’s at the time; stents in her heart; St Catherine’s, Invercargill; and, finally, St Kevin’s, Oamaru. cancer operations; finally the car accident when out She proclaimed the Truth – by word and example. At taken Holy Communion to the sick at home which the conclusion of her teaching career, the Ministry of started the journey to her arrival here at Little Sisters. Parish Pastoral Worker beckoned, first in St Joseph’s The Dominican motto, Veritas, Truth, is a great summary Cathedral Parish here in Dunedin, followed by St Patrick’s of her life. Parish, Oamaru. As a Pastoral Worker she never let dust She lived the Truth gather under her feet. Devoted to care of the sick, shut- She learned the Truth ins, young mothers, etc etc she enjoyed them all and they She taught the Truth enjoyed her. It could be said the biggest challenge she She proclaimed the Truth faced was to inspire the priests in the parishes where she She spoke the Truth. ministered, to copy her organisational and planning skills. She lived the Truth – she followed Christ and Her practical attention to fine detail is legend. Fr, now always trusted in him. Her Motto in Religion Bishop, Colin, Frs Mark, Martin, Chris, Tony and Gerard being “Heart of Jesus, I place my trust in you” will know first-hand what I’m referring to. It would be The seeds of faith were sown in the family home and in fair to say, that just as in teaching, she wasn’t 100% that seedbed of vocations the Parish of St Mary Star of successful attempting to inspire others on the parish the Sea, Port Chalmers. Up until recent times she would pastoral team, leaving the rest to the hands of God. recount clearly stories of travelling by horse and cart Mustn’t overlook the Fr Wayne/Sister Madeleine Team. To to Mass at Seacliff or Waitati; one half of the family on say it was a formidable team could be an understatement. the cart the other half walking, and switching places at Fr Wayne frequently canonised her as a saint – it was hard the half-way mark. As there wasn’t Mass every Sunday to know who was organising who. Fr Wayne relied on her at either place, on those occasions, the Rosary, a daily in many ways, even to the extent of getting her to type his prayer in the home, was recited twice along with all the numerous letters to the – one of the trimmings. Here at Little Sisters, Mother Rita offered her a reasons the letters were always so grammatically correct. new Ministry, the leading of the 4 o’clock Rosary for a time, Her pastoral care was superb and through that along with extra Hail Mary’s, duplication of Mysteries etc care she became known and respected not only in etc. She spent many an hour here in this Chapel, trusting the parish, but also the wider Oamaru Community. In Oamaru, she was very involved in the Catholic Spikes in the portico to prevent the pigeons will be Women’s League, ultimately receiving a Life Membership installed next year – now there is an ongoing saga. The of the League. outside toilet lock has been fixed and the doors in the She spoke the Truth – if she needed to, she would call a Basilica will be adjusted to make them more draft proof. spade, a spade. And possibly it was deserved most of time. Another refurbishing project upstairs in the Greaney A niece and her friend arrived late for first class centre is closer to starting. The engineer’s report on one morning and when asked why they were late, “The the Kurow church has found it is a bit more earthquake train ran into the station” was the reply given. To which, resistant than thought but may need some work. with a smirk on her face, they were told “Sit down you St Vincent de Paul is doing very well through its shop cheeky, girls.” No doubt she used the same excuse in her trading and through TradeMe. It is continuing to support own school days. the more vulnerable through its emergency food bank I was surprised to note on her “list” under “interests” and petrol vouchers as the need arises. Support the shop none. To me it looked as though she never talked too through giving clean goods in good repair and buying as much about her other interests. These she did have. the profits are used to support our community. The shop Spinning, knitting, and her baking. Is it a weakness to will be closing at 1pm on Wednesday 23rd December and have a sweet tooth? opening at 1pm 4th January. Never counting the cost, living a life of dedication and St Joseph’s School has had a very busy term with faithful service, nourished by the Word of God and the productions, athletics, report writing and other activities. Sacraments, especially the Eucharist, she was a proud, The Yr 8 students will have had their special leaver’s Mass yet very humble Dominican and we wish them well in their secondary school life. At the centre her Motto, “Heart of Jesus, I place my It was mentionedthat Fr Wayne often says, "The worst trust in you”. thing is when good people do nothing." Sister Madeleine we entrust you to the Lord, with Concern was expressed at the lowering of standards in your jar of oil filled to overflowing with prayer and good local publications and at local events and it was pointed works, praying you are now enjoying the company of out how important it is for us to speak out about these your Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier and all who have things to the people in charge in an effort to maintain gone before you in faith to the heavenly banquet spoken standards in our society. of in the passage from the Prophet Isaiah today.. Our meeting ended with us praying for a successful Eternal rest grant to her oh Lord. outcome of Fr Wayne’s surgery and to have him back in Mons John Harrison the New Year well and pain free. While he is away there will be no daily Masses but there will be priests from the Parish Pastoral Co-ordinating Committee Diocese with us and we are grateful for this. The last meeting has been held with thanks for coming Barry Rooney thanked everyone for their contributions out of a very difficult and unusual year where some new and hard work for the year as there have been some extra ‘normals’ were established. Hopefully, we have come difficulties and happenings to deal with. He made special through the worst of the Covid scare but we can’t afford mention of the reflections at each meeting and how they to relax our standards. We were living with the continued uncovered further understanding of aspects of our faith. uncertainty of our parish school’s future siting. We have lost some very faithful parishioners. With Advent with us we are looking forward to the Christmas celebrations with family, friends and the church community at the services to bring hope to a new year ahead of us. The Christmas Mass timetable will be the same as last year. Our reflection was based on Paul’s letter to the Philippians 3:17-4.1 The Kingdom of God. Our reflection was about what we think that is and when it is, - yes,when. Record the following date in your 2021 diaries or on your new calendars. 9.00am January 23rd at St Kevin’s College Staffroom for a day of reflection and planning. We will be Skyping with Fr John O’Connor again but the agenda and content will vary. Watch out for the reminders as this is such an important occasion for our parish. Works and Maintenance committee have been busy with projects in hand and others pending. You will see part of the garden has been dug up and there is a hole in the concrete where the electric cables in to the church are being put underground. Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament Choir A God of Surprises and Orchestra Concert at 11am on Acts 8: 3-4 Friday 13 November at the Basilica Now, as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly Nearly ninety people enjoyed this brilliant concert a light from heaven flashed around given by the CBS Choir and Orchestra from him. He fell to the ground and conducted by Don Whelan. heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, The programme started with the choir singing a Victorian Saul, why do you persecute me?” piece by Bruckner from the organ loft at the back of the Without warning, life changes. church. No one told Saul when he left that morning that he This was followed by a selection of pieces skilfully played would be blinded and converted suddenly to Jesus. It on the piano by organ scholar, Max Toth. After this the was a dramatic turnaround in Saul’s life. choir and orchestra performed several seventeenth to God’s presence literally stopped Saul in his tracks, nineteenth century pieces starting with the Magnicat brought him to his knees. It still happens today. by Buxtehude and then a variety of pieces by Mozart, In our own lives God can suddenly step in with a jolt to Mendelssohn and Wesley finishing with some parts from awaken our senses. Missa Brevis by Haydn. The music created a wonderful Calamity strikes, shocks us into a new direction. atmosphere in the Basilica. Surprises are part of God’s plan. At the end, the audience clapped loudly to show their Surprises intensify our faith. Surprises require us to appreciation of the beautiful singing and playing and the make adjustments and changes. CBS Choir and Orchestra were warmly thanked. The CBS Choir and Orchestra then left Oamaru to Can you think of a time in your own life when you have continue on their concert tour to Dunedin and Waimate been shocked or surprised by God? before returning to Christchurch. Nicola Mountain What changes and adjustments have you or your family made in response to a sudden life surprise? Challenge: When you go home, at some stage, write a short letter to God about some surprising aspect of your life. (You can share it with others or just keep it to yourself.)

Dear God, You know me through and through, each day is new and I start off with happy anticipation. Sometimes, I am annoyed by small happenings and things don’t go quite as I have planned. Sometimes, something alarming will shock me out of my complacency. Other times, the day is full of sunshine and sweetness and everything seems to go according to your plan and mine. Help me to be aware that whatever happens each day, it is part of your great plan for my life and that somehow, one day, I will be aware of just how much time and effort you have spent on my behalf. Thank you, God. Amen.

Iona Services Fr Wayne, supported by a group of church members, leads a service at Iona Rest Home for our beloved parishioners who are now residing there. After Fr Wayne’s welcome a hymn is sung and Des Burke reads a Gospel passage. Fr Wayne briefly comments on the Gospel message then anoints everyone and Sister Nola gives communion. Joan Simson gives a beautiful reflection and the service closes with another hymn. On the fourth Wednesday we have afternoon tea for everyone which is much appreciated You are most welcome to join us, too. A Prayer to Ease Confusion CHRISTMAS TIMETABLE “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” - Hebrews 11:1 ESV We hold the key to endless information at our fingertips. One click or swipe and we’re instantly transported to the next current event, opinion, or titbit of news. Real Basilica: or fake? Can we trust the source? Yes, exposure to Christmas Vigil- 7.30pm Carols - 8pm Mass world happenings has its benefits. But sifting through each article, considering different perspectives, and Christmas Day – 9am Carols - 9.30am staying up-to-date can get overwhelming. Lately I’ve been enticed with information overload, Normal Mass times resume including 26/27 Dec leaving me dazed and confused. What should I believe? Who should I listen to? When confusion threatens and Saturday Vigil 5pm Sunday Mass 9.30am I start feeling overwhelmed with it all, God’s Word provides the antidote. The only thing that helps when confusion takes over is the certainty of my future hope. “Now, faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 Kurow: Chapter 11 of Hebrews gives us an inspiring look at Christmas Vigil - 5.40pm Carols – Mass 6pm the meaning of faith. It includes examples from biblical heroes who displayed faith, even though they didn’t Normal Mass times - 1st & 3rd Sundays 12 noon get to see some of God’s promises during their time on earth. “And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us…” (Hebrews 11:39). Abel, Enoch, Noah, and more. Their lives showed Hampden: strength through trials and offered the one truth we Our Lady Star of the Sea Church – No Masses until need to hold onto when confused by circumstances further notice. surrounding us. We have the one true God who gave his son to be our Saviour. Jesus Christ, our living hope. Hampden Parishioners are invited to join the Kristine Brown congregation at the Basilica DUTY ROSTER 10th JANUARY - 7th FEBRUARY 2021

7th FEBRUARY DUTIES: 10th JANUARY 17th JANUARY 24th JANUARY 31st JANUARY 5th SUNDAY IN Vigil Sat 5:00pm THE BAPTISM OF 2nd SUNDAY IN 3rd SUNDAY IN 4th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Sunday 9:30am THE LORD ORDINARY TIME ORDINARY TIME ORDINARY TIME

READINGS: 1. Genesis 1: 1-5 1. 1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19 1. Jonah 3: 1-5, 10 1. Deuteronomy 18:15-20 1. Job 7: 1-4, 6-7 2. Acts 19: 1-7 2. 1 Corinth. 6:13c-15a,17-20 2. 1 Corinthians 7: 29-31 2. 1 Corinthians 7: 32-35 2. 1 Corinth. 9:16-19,22-23 (YEAR B) G. Mark 1:4-11 G. John 1: 35-42 G. Mark 1:14-20 G. Mark 1: 21-28 G. Mark 1:29-39

Rheanna & Clarence Coscos ALTAR 5:00pm Lachie & Mikayla Criddle Sarah Staju, King Melicio & Paddy Spillane & Isaiah Lachie & Mikayla Criddle David Kilgour & Luse Asi Castro SERVERS: 9:30am Lisiate Hausia, Chris Quinn & Ferj Gonzales & Indeg Jones-Hogan, Lilly Chris Jorgensen, Lisiate Quinn & Ferj Gonzales Jorgensen & Rolfe Patalbo Ivy-Belle Mestrom Kelcher & Alexia Philips Hausia & Rolfe Patalbo & Curtney Esdrelon Breda O'Brien MASS Chris Heywood David Kilgour & Family GREETERS: 5:00pm Shirley Johnston Phillipa Jones Diana Sinclair & Christopher Jorgensen & Marg Morunga & Nicola Mountain & Eufrosina Finlaysoni & Mary Watson Stephanie Leong Son Espie Orlowski 9:30am Roseanne Sheridan Kate Houlihan READERS: 5:00pm 1. Joe Spillane 1. Rosemary Burke 1. Ria Keogh 1. Cally McKenzie 1. Joe Spillane 2. Coleen Blackmore 2. Samantha Flordeliz 2. Jan Law 2. Joe Spillane 2. Caring Burgess IP. Caring Burgess IP. Elaine Hurley IP. Tony Mullally IP. Monica Mullally IP. Coleen Blackmore

9:30am 1. Margaret Mount 1. Megan Phillips 1. Roseanne Sheridan 1. Bev Conlan 1. Judy Moffat 2. Terry O'Neill 2. Rhea Ratgali 2. Rosina Shakespeare 2. Nicola Mountain 2. Olive Roundhill IP. Gilbert Palliparampil IP. Olive Roundhill IP. Nicola Winders IP. Anika Winders IP. Lilly Kelcher PRESENTATION OF Ofa ki Loma Hafoka Malia Hausia Kelcher Family Kathy Martin-Inkster Meriale Melecio GIFTS: 9:30am

SPECIAL Tony or Glenys Kearns MINISTERS: 5:00pm Tony or Glenys Kearns Tony or Glenys Kearns Tony or Glenys Kearns Jan Law 9:30am Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Maurice Mulligan DISTRIBUTION No Distribution Required No Distribution Required Carmen & Mary Watson Dympna & Tony Jenkins Nicola Mountain & T O'Neill AFTER MASS: 9:30am

Tony & Glenys Kearns Tony & Glenys Kearns Jan Law SACRISTANS:5:00pm Tony & Glenys Kearns Tony & Glenys Kearns

9:30am Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Maurice Mulligan I.P. WRITERS: Emailed by: 12 noon Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Wednesday ROSTERS: Important - If anyone is not available for the time or date rostered, please arrange for someone to take your place. More Rosters on Page 2 & 3. DUTY ROSTER 13th DECEMBER - 3rd JANUARY 2021 25th DECEMBER 27th DEC DUTIES: 13th DEC 20th DEC 3rd JANUARY THE NATIVITY OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF Vigil Sat 5:00pm 3rd SUNDAY OF 4th SUNDAY OF THE EPIPHANY THE LORD JESUS MARY & Sunday 9:30am ADVENT ADVENT OF THE LORD CHRISTMAS DAY JOSEPH 1. Genesis 15:1-6,17:3b-5,15- 1. Isaih 61: 1-2a,10-11 1. 2 Samuel 7:1-5,8b-12,14a,16 1. Isaiah 52: 7-10 1. Isaiah 60:1-6 READINGS: 16,21:1-7 2. Thesaloians 5:16-24 2. Romans 11: 13-15, 29-32 2. Hebrews 1:1-6 2. Ephesians 3:2-3a 5-6 2.Hebrews 11:8,11-12,17-19 (YEAR B) G. John 1:6-8, 19-28 G. Matthew 16: 25-27 G. John 1:1-18 G. Matthew 2: 1-12 G.Luke 2: 22-40

Paddy Spillane, IsaiahCastro Lachie & Mikayla Criddle & To be Advised David Kilgour & Rheanna & Clarence ALTAR 5:00pm & Lilly Kelcher Luse Asi King Melecio Coscos & Isaiah Castro SERVERS: 9:30am Alexia Philips, Lisiate Hausia Quinn & Ferj Gonzales & Alexia Philips, Lisiate Hausia Ivy-Belle Mestrom, Indeg Jones & Rolf Patalbo Ivy-Belle Mestrom To be Advised & Curtney Esdrelon Hogan & Maikey Quiachon

MASS Alan & Tama Roberts Demi & Villiami Talalime Sam Asi & Family GREETERS: 5:00pm Breda O'Brien Fely Parker Christopher Jorgensen & Marg Morunga & Diana Sinclair & Nicola Mountain & Eufrosina Finlayson & Stephanie Leong Son Espie Orlowski Mary Watson 9:30am Roseanne Sheridan Kate Houlihan READERS: 5:00pm 1. Coleen Blackmore 1. Caring Burgess 1. Liturgy Cmte to Organise 1. Elaine Hurley 1. Tony Mullally 2. Jan Law 2. Rosemary Burke 2 . Liturgy Cmte to Organise 2. Ria Keogh 2. Monica Mullally IP. Cally McKenzie IP. Samantha Flordeliz IP. Liturgy Cmte to Organise IP. Jan Law IP. Cally McKenzie

9:30am 1. Nicola Winders 1. Adrienne Wylie 1. Liturgy Cmte to Organise 1. Joel Kunnethedan 1. Celine Mascarenhas 2. Anika Winders 2. Mark Wylie 2. Liturgy Cmte to Organise 2, Socorro Laraga 2. Celroy Mascarenhas IP. Olive Roundhill IP. Susie Jorgensen IP. Liturgy Cmte to Organise IP. Judy Moffat IP. Nicola Mountain PRESENTATION OF Sinclair Family Whitham Family Liturgy Cmte to Organise Growcott Family Guthrie Family GIFTS: 9:30am SPECIAL MINISTERS: 5:00pm Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Tony or Glenys Kearns

9:30am Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Jan Law DISTRIBUTION Espie & Diana Sinclair No Distribution Required No Distribution Required No Distribution Required No Distribution Required AFTER MASS: 9:30am

SACRISTANS:5:00pm Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Jan Law Tony & Glenys Kearns

9:30am Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Maurice Mulligan Jan Law I.P. WRITERS: Emailed by: 12 noon Jan Tierney Katherine Henry Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Elaine Hurley Wednesday ROSTERS: Important - If anyone is not available for the time or date rostered, please arrange for someone to take your place. More Rosters on Page 2 & 3.