St. John’s Parish Mitcham 494 Whitehorse Road, Mitcham 3132

(Postal: P.O. Box 95, Mitcham 3132) Email: Mitcham@cam.org.au

Website: www.stjohnsmitcham.com.au Phone: 03 9401 6366 Fax No. 03 9872 4316

3rd Sunday of Advent December 13th 2020—Year B

THANK YOU...FAREWELL...FROM MONIKA BREDHAUER

For the last 6 years, as Bereavement Co-ordinator at St John’s, it has been my privilege to journey with many of you and your families during the most difficult time in your lives. It has been a very humbling and rewarding experience and will stay with me forever. I have forged many wonderful friendships along the way, especially in my Pastoral Care work.

It was a very difficult decision to make, however, my family comes first and it’s time for me to step down and make way for two amazing ladies. They are very enthusiastic and committed to enriching this very important ministry in our parish.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dispin for placing his trust in me and in my work; For his wonderful spiritual and practical guidance in this ministry. I have very much appreciated Dispin’s encouragement and friendship. I would also like to thank the members of the Bereavement team for their unfailing support and assistance. My sincere thanks also to the Parish Office Team who have supported me in every way possible.

I will miss you all, however, this isn’t good bye as I look forward to continue contributing in any way I can to this incredible and vibrant Parish Community we have here in Mitcham. Monika Bredhauer

We welcome our new Pastoral Support Team, Jenny & Loredana ‘Let go and Let God!

One morning recently, I had been worrying God with my guilt about not doing more for His kingdom. ‘Let it go,’ was His message back. ‘Wait. And the opportunity will present itself.’ That very afternoon, I received a call from Dispin …! I am honoured and humbled by the opportunity to serve through this most important ministry. My parish life has always been an active one at Our Lady’s in Ringwood, then St Anne’s in Park Orchards and now here at St John’s. All my working life was focussed in the areas of grief and loss, crisis intervention and life education. My life of faith has continually informed the direction of my energy and skills. My constant desire is that it is always Jesus who works, loves and prays in me and that I am always right where He intends me to be. I am very much looking forward to working with you all, and pray I will do justice to the trust my church family has given me. Jenny

My name is Loredana Iacobucci, I was born in Italy and came in Australia over 30 years ago. I have worked for many years in Residential Aged Care and since 2011 in Community Care in Social Inclusion services with a local Government.

I’ve lived in St John’s Parish during the majority of my time in Australia. I am still amazed to see such vibrant and connected community still continuing.

During my spiritual journey, the desire to fulfil my “call” has increased over the last few years and now it’s a privilege to be invited to join the Bereavement and Pastoral Care Team here at St John’s.

I endeavour to bring compassion and understanding to this special ministry. May the Lord use us as vessel of His love throughout the Community. God Bless, Loredana

Parish Information

Parish Information & Daily readings

Normal Weekend Mass Times at St. John’s Saturday Vigil, 6pm, then 8.30am, 9.45am, 11.15am, 5pm 9.30am St James Vermont

Parish Priest

Fr Dispin John Supported by Fr Michael Kelly, CSsR Parish Office

Visitation and Communion to the Sick & Housebound: Office hours: Closed until further notice please call for assistance

Co-ordinator: Cath Brindle 0423 065 825 Monday-Friday 9am-4pm Ph: 9401 6366

Bereavement Ministry & Pastoral Care: Monika Bredhauer Parish Secretaries:

COVID Safe Co-ordinator: Martine Giles (Monday-Wednesday & Friday)

Lori Iacobucci St John’s School, 494 Whitehorse Road, Mitcham, 9874 1575 Principal: Mrs Verona Gridley Safeguarding Committee Co-ordinator: St James School, 51 Centre Road, Vermont, 9874 1830 Andrew Buchanan 0472 699 322 Principal: Mr Dave Mutimer RE for Government Schools: Services: Andrew Puls—0407 352 706

St Vincent de Paul Shop 2/82 Maroondah Hwy Ringwood 9870 9124 - St Vincent de Paul Furniture Pick-Ups 1800 621 349 - St Vincent de Paul Welfare Assistance 1800 305 - House of Books (house next door to the Church) 9401 6306

Scripture Readings for week Mon: Numbers 24:2-7 15-17 Matthew 21:23-27 Tues: Zephaniah 3:1-2 9-13 Matthew 21:28-32 Wed: Isaiah 45:6-8 18 21-26 Luke 7:19-23 Thur: Genesis 49:2 8-10 Matthew 1:1-17 Fri: Jeremiah 23:5-8 Matthew 1:18-24 Sat: Judges 13:2-7 24-25 Luke 1:5-25 Fourth Sunday of Advent 2 Samuel 7:1-5 8-12 14 16 Romans 16:25-27 Luke 1:26-38

AMONGST OUR PARISH FAMILY

We welcome into our Parish family through the sacrament of Baptism: Scarlett Ava McCrea. We ask for the grace and peace of Eternal life for Mohya Watson, Baby Margarita Padinger Mattos and for those who have recently passed away and for those whose memories are sacred to us at this time especially, Brian Hayes, Jack Dunn, John Santamaria, Bernie Hanlan.

Thank you to all who have participated in helping to keep the Rosary “alive” in our Parish during this difficult year. Due to the current restrictions we are unable to meet for our usual end of year celebration, but hope that we can do so in 2021, and, to all parishioners, we would love to welcome more of you to join us in this activity. If you would like more information, please give me a call. Helen Thomas 9874 7024 or 0413 000 325

How you can support your Parish through these difficult days Details are: 1st Collection: Account Name: St John’s Presbytery Account BSB: 083343 Account No. 515 469 035 2nd Collection: Account Name: St John’s Church Account BSB: 083347 Account No. 676 841 942 Reference field: Must have Envelope number and Surname (please contact the Parish Office if you don’t know your envelope no.) You can mail a cheque, mentioning the split between the 1st and 2nd collections. Please mention your name and envelope number. If you have any questions about this, please ring the Parish Office 9401 6366 or email: mitcham@cam.org.au. Mail to PO Box 95 Mitcham Vic 3132 You can now bring your envelope to Mass or the Parish Office during office hours

The Parish Office is now open

Monday—Friday 9am-4pm Please celebrate with us our Parish Masses posted on our parish website stjohnsmitcham.com.au or on our facebook page.

Inspiration for the coming week from the Compassion & Friendship Group

Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another:

What! You too? I thought I was the only one”

CS Lewis

Weekday Masses will resume this week at St John’s Monday (Church Closed) Tuesday 10am Mass (Mary MacKillop Novena for the sick)

11am Funeral for Moyha Watson parishioners wishing to attend please register with the Parish Office on Monday 14 December either by phone or email. Wednesday 10am Mass Thursday 10am Mass Friday 10am Mass

Christmas & Other Mass News

Christmas Masses @ St John’s

Christmas Eve Masses—Thursday 24 December 2020 5pm, 6.30pm, 8.30pm & 10.30pm Christmas Day—Friday 25 December 2020 8.30am & 10.30am At this stage Registration via Try Booking is not yet opened for Christmas Masses but an email will be forwarded to parishioners advising of such as soon as possible. Please note that all masses will be celebrated at St John’s Church, Mitcham.

Please Note: as from next weekend 19/20 December Weekend Masses

will be as follows:

Saturday: 6pm

Sunday: 8.30am, 9.45am 11.15am & 5pm

We need your help for our Christmas Masses

Can you help out?

If you would like to be involved in the Christmas Liturgies in the following ways:

* Commentator * Lector * Minister of Eucharist * Laptop Operator * Record Taker * Usher

St Vincent de Paul—Christmas Gifts

This year we are taking a different approach to gifts for families in need.

We are requesting the donation of gift cards that recipients can use to choose their own gift.

Cards from Big W, Kmart or similar retailers offering a wide range of products would be best.

Gift cards can be left after Mass in a basket at the exit points of the Church or with the Parish Office. It would be appreciated if these could be delivered no later than 15 December.

Thank you for your help.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL—DECEMBER

As a result of some of the restrictions being eased parishioners are encouraged to make donations to St Vincent de Paul.

Food donations of tinned ham, Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, long life custard, shortbread biscuits, tinned fruit would be greatly appreciated.

Donations can be made at the Parish Office from Tuesday to Friday between 9am-4pm.

Thank you to all our parishioners who continue to generously support this worthy cause.

The schedule for Weekday Mases next week will be Tuesday 15 December—Friday 18 December at 10am. You are welcome to attend 10am Mass without booking as long as have your name and contact details recorded as you enter the church and that a COVID-safe environment is maintained.

The schedule for the Weekend Masses, 19 / 20 December will be: Saturday 19/12/20: 6pm Mass Sunday 20/12/20: 8.30am, 9.45am 11.15am & 5pm For parishioners who are unable to register directly for Weekend Masses, please phone the Parish Office on 9401 6366 between Monday-Friday 9am-4pm. You will need to advise the Mass you wish to attend and the name(s) and contact number(s) of those attending with you.

Bookings will open for registration from Tuesday 15 December at midday.

REMINDER TO ALL VOLUNTEERS A WORKING WITH CHILDREN CHECK IS

ESSENTIAL

Any parishioner who kindly volunteers in any capacity in the Church is now required to have a current Working with Children Check in place. Could you please ensure to advise the Parish Office with details in order for the data base to be accurate. If you would like assistance with applying for one please contact Elisa Kelesidis via Mitcham@cam.org.au Thank you for your continued support of our parish community.

St John’s Parish, Mitcham Safeguarding Children & Young People

Code of Conduct Declaration The Safeguarding Committee would greatly appreciate if all volunteers at St John’s Mitcham could sign the current Code of Conduct to ensure that our parish is compliant in accordance with the appropriate regulations. Copies of the current Code of Conduct can be found at the exit points of the Church or can be downloaded from the parish website: www.stjohnsmitcham.com.au. Click on the tab About, select Child Safety, scroll down to the bottom of page and select “Safeguarding Children & Young People Code of Conduct Declaration”. Please read, sign and return to the Parish Office at your earliest convenience. Thank you to all our volunteers for their continued support. Parish Safeguarding Committee

Faith Formation, Social & Other

Nothing can Separate us from the Love of Christ It is encouraged to continue active participation in the life of the Church, through activities such as time in personal and family prayer, reflecting on the Scriptures and making a spiritual communion.

Please be aware that you can access the parish website to view the video of Fr Dispin’s Homily and Gospel of the weekend https://www.stjohnsmitcham.com.au/ or you can participate in a Mass online via http://bit.lyMassOnDemand, or www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass

Masses are livestreaming from St Patrick’s Cathedral Monday—Friday at 1pm, Saturday 8am and Sunday 11am. This is available to view on demand until one hour prior to the next scheduled Mass https://www.cam.org.au/mass

Catholic Social Teaching—What Can I Do About it here and Now?

Special prayers are offered at our Tuesday Mass for the healing of the sick followed by a Novena of Saint Mary MacKillop. This Mass aims to offer a gentle reflection to help us along during the week. If you know of someone who might need our special prayers or to be added to the

Novena List please email the parish office mitcham@cam.org.au and leave a message for those you wish to be prayed for by Monday afternoons. Keeping you in our prayers.

‘COME and SEE’ RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS

RCIA stands for

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: a gentle journey of faith,

of searching, of meeting new people and

of learning about the Catholic faith.

Our parish offers this program every year to adults who are interested in asking questions about the

Catholic faith—and about becoming Catholic.

COVID-19 has delayed the commencement of our 2020/2021 program but we are now pleased to offer the opportunity for a ‘Come and See’ conversation

with an RCIA team member for anyone who is interested.

Come and See means just that... come and see

if this might be for you. Are you someone who’s been thinking and

wondering about making that first step? Maybe it’s time to make a call.

Or perhaps you have someone in mind ... a family member or friend, who may be interested in finding out about becoming Catholic. Encourage them to make contact. Maybe even arrange to join in on a

coffee and a chat.

A conversation is an easy first step. We’d love to hear from you.

Please call

RCIA Coordinator Jenny Kearney 0412 379 357 Or the parish office 9401 6366

Faith Formation, Social & Other

VINNIES CHRISTMAS APPEAL 2020

There are three ways you can donate to our Christmas Appeal. Thank you for your support. 1) Mail a cheque to the Parish Office at 494 Whitehorse Road (PO Box 95)

Mitcham 3132 marked Vinnies Christmas Appeal including your name and address so that we can send you a receipt.

2) If you use internet banking, Vinnies bank details are as follows: BSB 063-003 1008-1787. This is a bucket account for all Conferences in Victoria so on the details line please enter Agent 446 which identifies Mitcham Conference. Then email mitcham.conf.tres@svdp-vic.org.au with details of your payment (your name does not appear on our bank statement) and the name in which you would like your receipt to be issued. 3) Credit Card or Paypal Payment. You can phone 131 818 and follow the prompts or; log on to Vinnies.org.au and fill in your details. If you would like your donation to be directed back to Mitcham Conference section please enter St Johns Mitcham 446 in the comments section of the online form. Vinnies Head Office will issue receipts for all credit card donations.

Melbourne Overseas Mission Appeal 2020 this weekend. Primarily this Appeal will be held online at the Melbourne Overseas Mission please visit the website https://mom.org.au for more information or to donate.

Parishioners are encouraged to donate to this Annual Appeal by clicking on the following link: https://bit.ly/CDFpayMOM

Thank you for your support which has, over the years, made it possible to fund many projects for disadvantaged people in Papua New Guinea, Peru, West Africa, Pakistan, Palestine and the many Islands in the Pacific. Some $200,000 has been provided in clean water, health, education and improved living standards to people who could not otherwise have had this opportunity over the last year. This is especially in the areas of MOM activity, where the effect of the pandemic has been devastating.

Carmelite Community Donvale are looking for a Part-time COOK & HOUSEKEEPER

to commence 1st February 2021

3 x hours per day / 4 days Monday—Thursday 3pm-6pm

Only required during School Terms 4 adults on the premises

Job Description Preparing Main Meals

Shopping for food & supplies General house cleaning as time permits

Applications will be accepted until December 20th 2020

Great news!

St John's House of Books has now re-opened to customers.

The shop is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 1pm. Our team of volunteers look forward to seeing parishioners and customers again.

COVID-safe practices will be in place. These include limitations on the number of people in the store, use of hand sanitiser and of course the wearing of masks in accordance with government health directives.

The House of Books will close after Saturday 19 December at 1pm and will re-open on Monday 18 January 2021.

Don Bosco Retreat Centre 465 Lysterfield Road, LYSTERFIELD

Telephone 9752 2432 email: dbrclysterfield@gmail.com Ideal Venue for : * Parish Group retreats * Variety of youth, young adult & adult retreat programmes * Reflection days * Sacramental Preparation * Venue hire * Day facilities * Overnight accommodation * Catering available * Retreat facilitation * Pastoral Council training

Ease of access only 10 minutes from M3 Eastlink and 15 minutes for Monash Freeway.

St. John's Memorial Garden

Plaques for this pastoral project may be ordered at any time for any deceased person who either was a parishioner at St John’s or who was buried from St John’s Church. The forms are in the Newsstands. These forms now include the Interment of Ashes at St. John's. The completed forms can be handed into the Parish Office.

Faith Formation, Social & Other

Heart of Life Centre for Spiritual & Pastoral Formation 296 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern

Are you a Spiritual Leader? - The Spiritual Leaders Program is one-year program held on Friday mornings (and some Friday afternoons). It is suitable for people in outreach ministries and various positions of leadership within their faith community, such as priests, ministers, members of religious Orders, lay eccelesial program which commences in February 2021, focuses on personal integration of the theory and practice of a contemplative, discerning approach to pastoral ministry. Previous participants have commented that this Program has been transformational in terms of their personal spirituality and their leadership skills. The Program may be available online, via Zoom, face-to-face, or a combination of both. Apply to Heart of Life Centre for Spiritual & Pastoral Formation in Malvern. Fee-Help is available to qualifying participants. Brochure and application form at www.heartoflife.melbourne or phone 9890 1101.

St Vincent de Paul Columban Calendars & Christmas Cards

The Columban Calendar is available for purchase from

the Parish Office Tuesday to Friday

9am—4pm

Columban Calendars: $10 each.

(Although the RRP is $9, we have decided to sell at this higher price to avoid the handling of change. (We are sure our parishioners will understand.)

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Cards: $5 per pack of 10.

Please bring the exact money for your purchases as the Parish Office does not have credit card facilities. Thank you for your continued support.

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 and talk to Roger on 0431 995 058, or email palms@palms.org.au

Good News! Advent is near and Scripture Reflection Group is back!

Tuesday evenings commencing 1st December 2020

7.30pm-9pm in a COVID safe setting

in the choir section of the Church. Enjoy the rewards of sharing faith amongst friends. Light format and informal groupings Flexibility to come and go Archdiocesan discussion guide to our weekly gospel Come join us! Friends and family, welcome

Jenny & Barry Kearney 0412 379 357

Supporting Communities

ST JOHNS CARD MAKING GROUP—Supporting St Vincent de Paul

‘Makers of hand crafted cards!’

Please remember to support our card group leading up to Christmas this year. All profits from the sale of our cards continue to benefit the work of St Vincent de Paul all throughout the year. You can view a selection of our handmade cards on the Parish website. Just click the link on the homepage and the cards will be displayed. You can then click on the actual photo of the card to enlarge it. All cards are subject to change of colours and designs. Please purchase early before some designs are sold out. The cost of our cards is $3.00, envelope included. Please remember if you need a card for a special or personal occasion, we are very happy to take orders and make an individual card for you. For any queries or orders, please contact Monika on 0438 220 361.

WILBOW GROUP IN ASSOCIATION WITH ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL, PRESENT

HANDEL’S

MESSIAH—Part 1 excerpts & Hallelujah Chorus & Christmas Carols

Carols by Howells, Darke, Willcocks, Leighton, Rutter & Gritton 18 Professional Singers directed by

Christopher Watson (Director of Music, Trinity College) Christopher Cook, organ

THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER 2020, 7.30pm

Bookings: www.trybooking.com/BNGKY Tickets $40; Children under 15 free

St Patrick’s Cathedral 1 Cathedral Place, East Melbourne

(Corner of Cathedral Place & Gisborne St)

Enquiries: music@cam.org.au.