Our Lady of the Mission

Next Sunday is the 25th October: Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Greetings and peace be with you.

Fr Cornelius and I warmly welcome you here at Our Lady of the Mission, Whitford Parish, parishioners and visitors alike. We pray and hope that you feel truly safe and at home in this our place of prayer, worship and personal encounter with our risen Lord. May the Holy Spirit ever pray in us more than we can ever imagine and bind us together in the love of our Heavenly Father. Over fifty years, Whitford Catholic Parish remains home to dozens of nationalities represented by our parishioners and frequent visitors. We take pride in our young people; those in our parish primary and secondary schools, those enrolled in our Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) and our parish youth group. They are not just our future Church but a vital part of our Church today and now. We value these our young people and endeavour to have their voices heard at every level of our administrative and pastoral engagements. We are ever grateful to the many individuals and groups that volunteer in various ministries of our parish life. To one and all, know that you are valued and appreciated in your own right. We cannot be what we are without you. Together, we continue to seek ways in which we can generously respond to that universal call to holiness of life in our families, parish community and in the society at large. I invite you and all your loved ones to be purposeful in this resolve. We must leave no one behind, those within and those on the peripheries. As always, Fr. Cornelius and I thank one and all of you for your ongoing prayers, concern, encouragement and support. Rest assured of our daily thoughts and prayers. We entrust you and yours, into the powerful intercessions of our Blessed Virgin Mother of Good counsel, and into those of St Joseph, patron of the universal Church.

Fr Cyprian M Shikokoti

Parish Priest.

Monday 19th October

NO MASS

Feast Day:

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Tuesday 20th October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

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Wednesday 21st October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

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Thursday 22nd October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

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Friday 23rd October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

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Saturday 24th October

Church 8am & 6.30pm

Feast Day:

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Sunday 25th October

Church 8am, 10am & 5.45pm

Feast Day:

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Kiswahili Mass: 2.30pm,

First Sunday of every month

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Lord, we praise you for your goodness to us. May we be one as we reach out in love to share your Son with this troubled world.

Introduction: One in Christ, united in mission, today we celebrate the centenary of World Mission Sunday. Jesus sends us to proclaim to the whole world the coming of his kingdom. We choose this opportunity to recommit to supporting God’s mission through prayer and sacrifice.

First Reading: Isaiah 45:1. 4-6

From the rising of the sun and from the west, there is none besides me.

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you.

Gospel: Matthew 22:15-21

Render to God the things that are God’s.

Antiphon to the Psalm: Give the Lord glory and honour.

Each year at tax time, we conscientiously give “to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.” Does my stewardship indicate that I am as faithful about giving “to God what belongs to God”?

We would love to meet you. Please introduce yourself to our priests Fr. Cyp and Fr. Cornelius.

Our Lady of the Mission parishioners are the heart of our Catholic community; here in Craigie and it surrounding suburbs. Our members gather in faith to worship, receive the sacraments; and grow as followers of Jesus Christ. From many cultural backgrounds, ages and all walks of life, we remain united in a shared desire to live out the Gospel, support one another, and serve in our local community and beyond.

As members of Our Lady of the Mission, our parishioners participate in Mass, contribute their time and talents, support our ministries, and strive to bring Christs love into their homes, workplaces and our community. Whether lifelong parishioners, new or returning, or those still exploring the faith – each parishioner plays a vital role in building up our vibrant, welcoming, and Spirit-filled community.

If you are not on our parish records, please consider filling up one of our census cards at the information desk and deposit it any of the collection boxes or hand it to any of our priests at Mass. Let us all be part of Our Lady of the Mission ongoing story. God bless!

1. Welcome to Bishop Nelson Po: Next weekend, we will welcome newly ordained bishop Nelson to our parish at the 6.30pm Mass on Saturday, 24th October. For all who can make it to this Mass, please do plan and join us.

2. First Reconciliation Parent/Child Workshop: We invite all children preparing to celebrate First Reconciliation to attend the Parent/Child Workshop on Wednesday 21 October at 5.00pm in the parish church. Each child must be accompanied by at least one parent or caregiver. We continue to keep these children, their families and teachers in our prayers.

3. First Reconciliation Celebration: First Reconciliation will be celebrated as follows:

- PCPS & PREP – Wednesday, 28th October at 6.00pm in the Parish Church.

- WCPS & PREP – Thursday, 29th October at 6.00pm in the Parish Church.

Please keep these young people in your prayers.

4. Parish Thanksgiving Mass, AGM and Luncheon: We warmly invite our parish staff, ministry leaders, volunteers and all parishioners to this year’s Thanksgiving Mass, AGM and luncheon on Sunday 22nd November. Mass will begin at 10.00am in the church, followed by the AGM and luncheon in the parish centre. For catering purposes, please add your name to the sign-up sheet at the back of the church or contact the parish office by email or phone. Thank you for your commitment to the life of our parish.

5. All Souls' Memorial Service: The parish will hold its annual All Souls’ Memorial Service on Saturday, 7th November at 3.00pm in Pinnaroo Memorial Park. Please remind your family and friends to join us; especially those who have their loved ones resting in Pinnaroo and or in our columbarium. Please note, this will NOT be a Mass.

4. Healing Mass with Fr Rozo Palic: Fr Palic, a renowned healing Priest from Triest, Northern Italy is visiting Perth and will be visiting OLM, 9am Holy Mass on Wednesday 11th November 2026. Come receive prayer and blessings from this anointed Priest, invite your family and friends. You are welcome to bring oil, water or salt for Fr Palic to bless. For Fr. Palic's other venues in Perth please see poster at back of Church.

6. Parish Annual Wedding Anniversary Mass & Dinner: We look forward to celebrating with all registered couples on Saturday, 24th October 2026 at 6.30pm. We warmly welcome special guest, Bishop Nelson Po who will be the celebrant at the Mass and attend dinner afterwards. Liturgy signup sheet can be found on the information desk.

7. St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal: We hope to again supply festive hampers to struggling local families this Christmas. Generous individuals, families and friends may offer a hamper to people we have helped in recent months. A list of various size families will be available in early November at the rear of the church, with suggested hamper items.

8. Line Dancing with Tom and Alma: Every Tuesday and Friday 10.30am – 12.00pm. Please come and join the fun, no experience required. All are welcome.

9. Parish Monthly Healing Mass: Our next Healing Mass will be on Saturday 31st October 2026 at 8.00am. Please plan to join us for prayer and anointing of the sick; and remember to invite your family and friends to come along.

10. Come Alive in Scripture: When You Pray - A Clear Path to a Deeper Relationship with God. You know that prayer is important but still find it challenging. Perhaps it’s hard to find time, or you’re unsure what to do when you pray. Or maybe you feel discouraged by your weakness and your inability to overcome them. Join us for When You Pray in the Parish Hall commencing Tuesday 20th October at 7 pm for seven weeks. There will be Registration sheets available at the back of the church or if you require further information contact Carol Wright on 0419 948 411 or email clwright0248@gmail.com”

11. Statue of Fatima: A new roster for 2027 will be prepared in November. Please let Shirley-Ann know if you have any updates/changes to your details. EG: change of address, contact number, or would like to be removed from the roster by Monday 2nd November. Shirley Ann phone: 0424 813 890. Thank you.

12. Legion of Mary and Auxiliaries: A Legion of Mary Mass will take place every second Saturday at the 8am Mass. Also, please join us for rosary at 7.30am prior to Mass. All are welcome to attend.

13. The Word Among Us: ***OCTOBER SOLD OUT*** - Spend just 10 minutes a day with The Word Among Us, and you will learn how to love God, others and self. Available from the back of the Church for $5. Let us embrace God’s Word and listen to Him.

14. Pastoral visits: Weekly pastoral visits conducted by Fr Cyprian and Fr Cornelius can be made by invitation to our sick and home-bound parishioners. On their visits, they bring prayer, sacraments of Reconciliation, Anointing of the sick, Holy Communion; and certainly, a listening ear. Please call one of our priests should you benefit or know somebody who would benefit from such a visit. Contact numbers on front of newsletter.

15. Rosary for World Peace: Tuesday evenings at 5pm. The Pope has asked all Catholics to pray this very powerful prayer for peace in our troubled world.

16. The Divine Mercy Ministry: The members of this Ministry pray for the sick and the dying. Please send names of family and friends, if you want them to be lifted up in prayer, via text or message to 0410 289 725.

17. The Divine Mercy Chaplet and Prayers: Recited each Saturday in our Church at the 8.00am Mass after benediction. All welcome!

18. The First-Class Relic of St Mariae Goretti: Parishioners may take the Reliquary to their homes. Please call the office 9307 2776 to make enquiries and book.

19. Your Offering: Please remember to deposit your offerings in the boxes provided in the foyer area or use electronic donation points. Thank you.

20. Your Collections: Thank you very much for your continued contribution and support to the Parish and Priests. Presbytery A/C (1st Collection) Supports our Priests, A/C#14027 5567, BSB# 086 006. Church A/C (2ndCollection) Supports our Church, A/C# 66579 4722, BSB# 086 006. Planned giving contributions can also be made through envelopes or direct debit, please contact the Parish office: whitford@perthcatholic.org. au. Thank you.

21. Padbury Catholic Primary School: APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN. Please contact the school on 08 9404 4000 or visit our website for further information.

22. Whitford Catholic Primary School: Kindy 2028 Enrolments NOW OPEN! Accepting expressions of Interest. Visit our website for more information.

1. 24/7 Whitford youth group: Gathering every 1st, 3rd and 5th Friday of the month from 7pm to 9pm for students in years 6-12. Next youth group will be held on Friday 30th October. Youth group includes fun games, a short faith-based talk, fellowship, free food, and a wonderful opportunity for young people to build like-minded, faith-filled friendships. More information contact Dino 0478 084 725 or Jasmine 0439 976 164.

2. Road to Emmaus Youth Group: Join us as we meet every Thursday 7.30-9.00pm in the Parish Centre. For ages 16-22. Contact Eliza for details: 0402 642 887.

RELIGIOUS GOODS STALL: Hyacinth, Pat, Mirella, Relief

PROCLAIMERS OF THE WORD: Rachel Boston, Gisela Boston, Tamara McGougan, Vienna S Penaranda, Michelle Gagatek, Carol Wright, Sharon Milne, Sam Leeks

COUNTERS: Sunday 25th October: Nicole Willey, Nirmalene Mendis, Tim Laver, Andrew Legg, Carla

CLEANERS: Friday 23rd October: Suzanne Healy, Melanie Eales, Katrina James, Erica Moore, Mary Healy

GLORY BE CAFÉ: Sunday 25th October: Teresa Fitzpatrick and Legion of Mary Volunteers

SPECIAL MINISTERS: L Sweeney, D Nightingall/ Chris Knox, Niamh Waters/ Corina Gill, Agnelo D’Souza, J Bouwman, L Pfeifhofer

STATUE OF FATIMA: The Statue will be with the Villaneuva family in Iluka from 24th to 31st October. Those wishing to join them to say the Rosary, can call 0424 440 247 to arrange. From 31st October to 7th November the Statue will be with the Eagle family in Ocean Reef.

DEVOTION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS: Is held on the first Friday of every month during 9.00 am Mass. The next Devotion will be on Friday 6th November 2026.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT: Every Wednesday & Friday from 9.30am–7 pm.

PRAY FOR THE SICK: We pray for all those in our Parish’s Book of the Sick. You are most welcome to add names to this book in the foyer of the Church. Please cross out when our prayers are no longer needed.

BAPTISMS: We welcome Toby Paterson and Leo Paterson into God’s family this weekend.

1.Reconciliation Times at Surrounding Parishes:

St Simon Peter, Ocean Reef: Tuesday & Friday: 6.30 pm/ Saturday: After 8.30 am Mass & 5 pm – 5.45 pm

St Anthony, Wanneroo: Saturday, 4.30 pm – 5 pm

St Luke, Woodvale: Saturday, 5 pm – 5.50 pm

All Saints, Greenwood: Saturday: 9.30 am – 10 am & 5.30 pm – 5.45 pm

Our Lady of Grace, North Beach: Saturday, 5 pm – 5.45 pm

2. 'St. Monica's Tears': Praying for our children, grandchildren and loved ones who have lapsed from their Catholic Faith. Holy Mass and prayers are offered every Thursday at 10.45am-12.00 noon for the return of our loved ones to their Catholic Faith. Place: St. Bernadette's Church. Jugan St. Glendalough.

3. Holy Mass Centennial Celebration: 100 years of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary 22nd November at 3pm. Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, catered refreshments. Schoenstatt Shrine, 9 Talus Drive, Armadale. Please book via: https://.trybooking.com/DQFPU

4. Aid to the Church in Need: invites you to join with Pope Leo XIV and Catholics worldwide for the One Million Children Praying the Rosary prayer campaign, for peace and unity in the world. Families, parishioners, prayer groups, and schools are all encouraged to register to take part! For free Rosary resources and to register, please scan the QR code or visit: www.acninternational.org/millionchildrenpraying

7. Looking for house-sit/rental: Scottish couple visiting family. Approx dates 20th January 2027 for a month looking in Padbury or surrounding areas. References can be supplied. contact Monica on macleanfamily46@yahoo.co.uk.

8. Palms International Volunteering Webinar: Special session where you’ll learn about our diverse assignments suited to your qualifications and time of life. Meet past volunteers Wendy and Mick who will share their adventures of life and laughter in PNG and Timor Leste, leaving a lasting positive impact on communities. Monday 19th October 2.30pm -4.00pm palms.org.au/events

First reading: Isaiah 45:1,4-6

I have taken Cyrus by his right hand to subdue nations before him

Thus, says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whom he has taken by his right hand to subdue nations before him and strip the loins of kings, to force gateways before him that their gates be closed no more: ‘It is for the sake of my servant Jacob, of Israel my chosen one, that I have called you by your name, conferring a title though you do not know me. I am the Lord, unrivalled; there is no other God besides me. Though you do not know me, I arm you that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that, apart from me, all is nothing.’

Responsorial Psalm: Ps. 95(96):1,3-5,7-10

Response: Give the Lord glory and honour.

O sing a new song to the Lord, sing to the Lord all the earth. Tell among the nations his glory and his wonders among all the peoples. R.

The Lord is great and worthy of praise, to be feared above all gods; the gods of the heathens are naught. It was the Lord who made the heavens, R.

Give the Lord, you families of peoples, give the Lord glory and power; give the Lord the glory of his name. Bring an offering and enter his courts. R.

Worship the Lord in his temple. O earth, tremble before him. Proclaim to the nations: ‘God is king.’ He will judge the peoples in fairness. R.

Second reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5

We constantly remember your faith, your love and your hope

From Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, to the Church in Thessalonika which is in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; wishing you grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We always mention you in our prayers and thank God for you all, and constantly remember before God our Father how you have shown your faith in action, worked for love and persevered through hope, in our Lord Jesus Christ. We know, brothers, that God loves you and that you have been chosen, because when we brought the Good News to you, it came to you not only as words, but as power and as the Holy Spirit and as utter conviction.

Gospel Acclamation: Philippians 2:15-16

Alleluia, alleluia! Shine on the world like bright stars; you are offering it the word of life. Alleluia!

Gospel Reading: Matthew 22:15-21

Give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar

The Pharisees went away to work out between them how to trap Jesus in what he said. And they sent their disciples to him, together with the Herodians, to say, ‘Master, we know that you are an honest man and teach the way of God in an honest way, and that you are not afraid of anyone, because a man’s rank means nothing to you. Tell us your opinion, then. Is it permissible to pay taxes to Caesar or not?’ But Jesus was aware of their malice and replied, ‘You hypocrites! Why do you set this trap for me? Let me see the money you pay the tax with.’ They handed him a denarius, and he said, ‘Whose head is this? Whose name?’ ‘Caesar’s’ they replied. He then said to them, ‘Very well, give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar – and to God what belongs to God.

We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name. With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it. We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder. Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions. Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right. All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever, Amen.

Greetings, my brothers and sisters in Christ,

This Sunday’s Gospel (Mt 22:15-21) presents to us a new face-to-face encounter between Jesus and his adversaries. The theme addressed is that of the tribute to Caesar: a “thorny” issue about whether or not it was lawful to pay taxes to the Roman Emperor, to whom Palestine was subject in Jesus’ time. There were various positions. Thus, the question that the Pharisees posed to him — “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” (v. 17) — was meant to ensnare the Teacher. In fact, depending on how he responded, he could have been accused of being either for or against Rome.

But in this case too, Jesus responds calmly and takes advantage of the malicious question in order to teach an important lesson, rising above the polemics and the alliance of his adversaries. He tells the Pharisees: “Show me the money for the tax”. They present him a coin, and, observing the coin, Jesus asks: “Whose likeness and inscription is this?”. The Pharisees can only answer: “Caesar’s”. Then Jesus concludes: “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (cf. vv. 19-21). On the one hand, suggesting they return to the emperor what belongs to him, Jesus declares that paying tax is not an act of idolatry, but a legal obligation to the earthly authority; on the other — and it is here that Jesus presents the “thrust” of his response: recalling the primacy of God, he asks them to render to Him that which is His due as the Lord of the life and history of mankind.

The reference to Caesar’s image engraved on the coin says that it is right that they feel fully — with rights and duties — citizens of the State; but symbolically it makes them think about the other image that is imprinted on every man and woman: the image of God. He is the Lord of all, and we, who were created “in his image” belong to Him first and foremost. From the question posed to him by the Pharisees, Jesus draws a more radical and vital question for each of us, a question we can ask ourselves: to whom do I belong? To family, to the city, to friends, to work, to politics, to the State? Yes, of course. But first and foremost — Jesus reminds us — you belong to God. This is the fundamental belonging. It is He who has given you all that you are and have. And therefore, day by day, we can and must live our life in recognition of this fundamental belonging and in heartfelt gratitude toward our Father, who creates each one of us individually, unrepeatable, but always according to the image of his beloved Son, Jesus. It is a wondrous mystery.

Christians are called to commit themselves concretely in the human and social spheres without comparing “God” and “Caesar”; comparing God and Caesar would be a fundamentalist approach. Christians are called to commit themselves concretely in earthly realities, but illuminating them with the light that comes from God. The primary entrustment to God and hope in him do not imply an escape from reality, but rather the diligent rendering to God that which belongs to him. This is why a believer looks to the future reality, that of God, so as to live earthly life to the fullest, and to meet its challenges with courage.

May the Virgin Mary help us to always live in conformity with the image of God that we bear within us, inside, also offering our contribution to the building of the earthly city.

Our Lady of the Mission Whitford Parish acknowledges that safeguarding is a shared responsibility prioritising the care, protection and best interests of children and adults at risk. Our Parish is committed to implementing the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (NCSS). You can find out more about the safeguarding program, guidelines, find helpful resources, reporting abuse and protective behaviours resources and story books here: https://safeguarding.perthcatholic.org.au/ or call the Safeguarding Office on 08 9221 7762.

Our Safeguarding Officers

Safeguarding officers assist to create a safe environment for all. They are the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns and support the implementation of the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards.

Safeguarding Officers: Renee Itzstein: 0413 225 560 and Sirlene Fernandes 0432 634 371 or email sgo.whitford@perthcatholic.org.au

Safeguarding Induction for all Church Workers

ALL church workers (volunteers or paid) are to complete a Safeguarding Level 1 Induction which is now a Self-Paced Online Learning Module that can be completed at any time, once every 3 years. Please visit: Safeguarding Training and Registration – Safeguarding Office (perthcatholic.org.au)

Safeguarding Forms and Policy:

Forms, Safeguarding policy and code of conduct can be found on the Safeguarding website, at the Parish Office or in one of the Safeguarding folders in the Church – Sacristy, Robing room or information desk.

Parish Priest:

Fr Cyprian M. Shikokoti Ph: 0450 464 678

Assistant Priest:

Fr Cornelius Ekwebelem Ph:0484 925 257

Parish Secretaries:

Mary McGrath-Yek (Accounts)

Ebony Lepoutre (School Sacraments)

Office Hours: Tues – Fri 9am –4pm (Monday Closed)

Ph: 08 9307 2776

Mobile: 0434 434 783 (Text only)

Email: whitford@perthcatholic.org.au

Columbarium: Closed Monday

Sacramental Coordinator: Lisa Mooney

Ph: 08 9307 2776

Email: sacramental.whitford@perthcatholic.org.au

Youth and Young Adult Contact Details

Youth Choir: Terry Boylen - 0402 642 887

Youth & Family Choir: Fran Christie Zscherpel - 0433 852 967

24:7 Whitford Youth Group: youthministry247@outlook.com.au

Safeguarding Officers:

Renee Itzstein 0413 225 560

Sirlene Fernandes 0432 634 371

Email: whitford@perthcatholic.org.au