Weekly Bulletin

Bearing Fruit

At the heart of today’s gospel passage is the concept of bearing fruit, which serves as a central theme not just within the context of the biblical narrative but also in our daily lives as individuals striving for growth and purpose.

The vinedresser in this passage symbolizes God, who lovingly tends to the vineyard of our lives, ensuring that we are nurtured and guided towards fruitful outcomes. The act of cutting away dead branches and pruning those that are not bearing fruit carries a significant spiritual message. It speaks to the necessity of letting go of that which no longer serves us or aligns with our purpose, and the importance of introspection and refinement to enhance our productivity and impact.

In contemplating how we bear fruit, we are called to consider various dimensions of our existence. One aspect is the pursuit of our fullest potential in all endeavours. This involves continuous growth, learning, and development, as we strive to maximize our talents and abilities for the greater good. By harnessing our potential, we contribute meaningfully to the world around us and bear fruit that enriches not only our lives but also the lives of others.

We are challenged to examine the motivation behind our actions. When our deeds are fuelled by genuine care and concern for others, rather than self-interest alone, we bear fruit that is characterized by compassion, kindness, and empathy. This selfless approach not only fosters stronger connections and relationships but also fosters a sense of unity and harmony within communities.

The concept of bearing fruit extends to our efforts in bringing about positive change and advancing the values of justice, love, and peace. As we work towards actualizing the reign of God's kingdom on earth, each of our contributions, no matter how small they may seem, plays a part in the collective endeavour to create a better world.

Resource used: Reflection: The Voice, by Fr. Michael Tate

 May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved……….forever! 

The essence of sin

The essence of sin is humanity substituting itself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting God’s self for humanity. Humanity asserts itself against God puts itself where only God deserves to be; God sacrifices God’s self for humanity and puts God where only humanity deserves to be. Humanity claims prerogatives that belong to God alone; God accepts penalties which belong to humanity alone.

As we stand before the cross, we begin to gain a clear view both of God and of ourselves, especially in relation to each other. Instead of inflicting upon us the judgement we deserved, God in Christ endured it in our place. Hell is the only alternative. This is the “scandal,” the stumbling-block, of the cross. 

We cannot bear to acknowledge either the seriousness of our sin and guilt or our utter indebtedness to the cross. Surely, we say, there must be something we can do, or at least contribute, in order to make amends? If not, we often give the impression that we would rather suffer our own punishment than the humiliation of seeing God through Christ bear it in our place.

Taken from: Naked Pride, John Stott.

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Our readings today teach us what it means to bear fruit as disciples of Christ. We hear in each of our readings that it is from the Lord that good effects will be produced in our lives. 
In our first reading, we hear about disciples that were preaching the Good News and defending the faith. The work they were doing was “with the consolation of the Holy Spirit.” It was not their work alone, but the work of God. 
We must ask ourselves, ‘how is God bearing fruit in my life?’ and ‘have I invited the Holy Spirit to work in me?’ The more we try to produce good effects in our lives, the more we will become disappointed if all we are relying on is our own efforts. It is only by inviting the Holy Spirit into our everyday moments that we will see goodness poured out. 
When we live a life like that — as a branch never separated from its vine — God will produce bountiful fruit in our lives. 

www.catholicsteward.com 

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We also need more volunteers for the Gardens and Grounds. Currently we have 4 dedicated people doing this work. One of our volunteers who mows the grounds is in his 80’s. We need some younger parishioners to step up. Can you spare a few hours each month?

7:00pm – 8:30pm in the Parish Centre.  

 

Sacrament of First Holy Communion Presentation Masses

The children of the parish are preparing for the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
They will be presented to the parish at the masses next weekend. 
The Sacrament will be celebrated on the weekend of 1/2 June

Would you please hold all the children and their families in your prayers. 
Thank you.

On 19 May I'm walking to fight Parkinson's and raising funds to support life-changing research and improve services for people living with Parkinson's.

Sadly, 1 Australian is diagnosed with Parkinson’s every 40 minutes and there is currently no cure. I'm doing my part to change this by getting active and fundraising for people impacted by Parkinson's.

Please sponsor me today and make a real difference to progress life-changing research and improve services to maximise choice, independence and wellbeing for people living with Parkinson's.

Head to my fundraising page.
Thank you, Ted Kell.

https://www.walktofightparkinsons.com.au/fundraisers/tedhkell

Healing Rally with Damian Stayne - Wednesday 1st May @ St Peter Chanels Church, Weston Street, Yarralumla from 7pm - 9:30pm. Everyone is welcome! Praise, worship, healing prayer and joy in the Holy Spirit! Damian is a Catholic lay evangelist from the UK.
He ministers powerfully in the charisms of preaching and healing. To register call/text Susanna 0419 902 293 or Neda 0415 266 019.

By remembering your faith community in your Will, you contribute to the spiritual legacy that has enriched your life. Your bequest ensures the continuation of the traditions, teachings, and support that have shaped your journey.

Fertility Care Program

Do you want to know more about how your menstrual and fertility cycle works?

Are you looking for something to manage your fertility that is entirely natural?

The FertilityCare, Creighton Model System (CrMs) is based upon the knowledge and understanding of naturally-occurring phases of a women's fertility and infertility.

To find out more or arrange a consultation please text 0474 728 868 or email mianuvicare@aol.com . Further information available at

https://www.fertilitycare.org/