Our Lady of the Mission

Next Sunday is the 18th October: Twenty-Ninth 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 12th October

NO MASS

Feast Day:

------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday 13th October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday 14th October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

------------------------------------------------------

Thursday 15th October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day: Saint Teresa of Jesus

------------------------------------------------------

Friday 16th October

Church 7am & 9am

Feast Day:

------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 17th October

Church 8am & 6.30pm

Feast Day: Saint Ignatius of Antioch

------------------------------------------------------

Sunday 18th October

Church 8am, 10am & 5.45pm

Feast Day:

------------------------------------------------------

Kiswahili Mass: 2.30pm,

First Sunday of every month

------------------------------------------------------

Lord, for the times that I have been indifferent to your invitation to come and spend time with you, to walk while beside you, forgive me

Introduction: A great feast is spread before us, a banquet in which we can all participate. As we gather today we give thanks for the generosity of God, who provides for us everything that we need and shows us how to live a life of service to our neighbours, near and far.

First Reading: Isaiah 25:6-10a

God will provide for all people and will wipe away their tears and destroy death for ever.

Second Reading: Philippians 4:12-14. 19-20

Paul writes that he knows what it is to be well fed, but also to be hungry. He reminds his readers that God will provide whatever they need.

Gospel: Matthew 22:1-14

The feast is laid out in front of all of us, and we are invited to share in it. But we are asked to be ready and willing to participate.

Antiphon to the Psalm: I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

Please offer your prayers this week for Edwin Murula Usete, Gabrielle Lawless, Norma & Jerome Fernandez, Nicolas Chavez, Francis Cardozo, Eamon Curran, Bill Roberts, all souls in purgatory, those doctors, nurses and carers who have died while helping victims of accidents, disease and warfare, our recently departed loved ones and those whose anniversaries occur around this time.

In today’s second reading, St. Paul thanks the Philippians for being willing to share in his hardships and promises that God, in turn, will fully supply all their needs. Our God truly cannot be outdone in generosity!

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: This month, we will welcome newly ordained bishop Nelson to our parish at the 6.30pm Mass on Saturday, 24th October. He will be the main Celebrant and will join Wedding Anniversary Couples for Dinner in the Parish Hall. For all who can make it to this Mass, please do plan and join us.

2. First Reconciliation Commitment Mass: We invite all our young people and their families celebrating First Reconciliation this year to join us for commitment Mass on the weekend of 17 & 18 October. Mass times are 6.30pm on Saturday, 8.00am, 10.00am and 5.45pm on Sunday. Saturday 8.00am Mass does not include commitment ceremony. Please bring your completed commitment and prayer cards to Mass with you.

3. 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.

4. RIP Mr Joseph Samananda: Funeral Requiem Mass will be celebrated in the church Wednesday 14th October at 10.30am. Please keep Catherine and family in your prayers at this time.

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 16th 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: Linda, Gloria, Angela. Ratna

PROCLAIMERS OF THE WORD: Linda Sweeney, John Clift, Peter Ross, Anne Dale, Angela Sanderson, Erica Sanderson, Dylan Sarapunas, Emma Paice

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

CLEANERS: Saturday 17th October: Maria Bennett, Carol Janeczko, Evelyn D’Souza, Ian Fernandez

GLORY BE CAFÉ: Sunday 18th October: Mary McGrath-Yek, Sam Borg, Lisa Borg.

SPECIAL MINISTERS: G Boston, Kerry Roberts, J D’Oliveira/ Diane Raftos, H Rosario, B Harrington/ Adam O’Neill, S Williamson, S Puvimanasinghe, R Lenon, M McGrath, Mary Prentice, Ann Raymond, Eliza Boylen.

STATUE OF FATIMA: The Statue will be with Shirley-Ann in Gwelup from 10th to 24th October. Those wishing to join her to say the Rosary, can call 042 4813 890 to arrange. From 24th to 31st October 2026 the Statue will be with the Villaneuva family in Iluka.

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 Dylan Jorgensen, Zac Jorgensen, Brodie Jorgensen, Hunter Ioppolo, Luna Vik-Smith 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.

4. Our Lady of the Rosary Pilgrimage: Saturday 17th October 2026 from 10am to 2pm at the Divine Mercy Shrine in Lower Chittering. Procession, Crowning of our Lady, Consecration prayers, Rosary, Veneration of Relics, Holy Mass, Eucharist Adoration and Benediction. Confession available. BYO Lunch to share. Buses depart promptly at 8.30am from Our Lady of the Mission and St Denis Church, Joondanna, $25pp. For more information contact: Nita 0418 355 531, Persi (bus) 0430 758 699 or Noya 0450 145 025.

5. 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

6. October Fatima Rosary Procession in Perth: Australia Needs Fatima Rosary Crusade on Saturday, 10 October 2026. The procession will begin at St Mary’s Cathedral, at 4pm continue to Yagan Square, and then return to St Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30pm. Bring a hat and water bottle. For more details contact 0493 117 203.

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 25:6-10

The Lord will prepare a banquet for every nation

On this mountain, the Lord of hosts will prepare for all peoples a banquet of rich food, a banquet of fine wines, of food rich and juicy, of fine strained wines. On this mountain he will remove the mourning veil covering all peoples, and the shroud enwrapping all nations, he will destroy Death for ever. The Lord will wipe away the tears from every cheek; he will take away his people’s shame everywhere on earth, for the Lord has said so. That day, it will be said: See, this is our God in whom we hoped for salvation; the Lord is the one in whom we hoped. We exult and we rejoice that he has saved us; for the hand of the Lord rests on this mountain.

Responsorial Psalm: Ps. 22(23)

Response: I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. Fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose. Near restful waters he leads me, to revive my drooping spirit. R.

He guides me along the right path; he is true to his name. If I should walk in the valley of darkness no evil would I fear. You are there with your crook and your staff; with these you give me comfort. R.

You have prepared a banquet for me in the sight of my foes. My head you have anointed with oil;

my cup is overflowing. R.

Surely goodness and kindness shall follow me all the days of my life. In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell for ever and ever. R.

Second reading: Philippians 4:12-14,19-20

With the help of the One who gives me strength, there is nothing I cannot master

I know how to be poor and I know how to be rich too. I have been through my initiation and now I am ready for anything anywhere: full stomach or empty stomach, poverty or plenty. There is nothing I cannot master with the help of the One who gives me strength. All the same, it was good of you to share with me in my hardships. In return my God will fulfil all your needs, in Christ Jesus, as lavishly as only God can. Glory to God, our Father, for ever and ever. Amen.

Gospel Acclamation: Ephesians 1:17. 18

Alleluia, alleluia! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our heart that we might see how great is the hope to which we are called. Alleluia!

Gospel Reading: Matthew 22:1-14

Invite everyone you can to the wedding

Jesus began to speak to the chief priests and elders of the people in parables: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a feast for his son’s wedding. He sent his servants to call those who had been invited, but they would not come. Next, he sent some more servants. “Tell those who have been invited” he said “that I have my banquet all prepared, my oxen and fattened cattle have been slaughtered, everything is ready. Come to the wedding.” But they were not interested: one went off to his farm, another to his business, and the rest seized his servants, maltreated them and killed them. The king was furious. He despatched his troops, destroyed those murderers and burnt their town. Then he said to his servants, “The wedding is ready; but as those who were invited proved to be unworthy, go to the crossroads in the town and invite everyone you can find to the wedding.” So these servants went out on to the roads and collected together everyone they could find, bad and good alike; and the wedding hall was filled with guests. When the king came in to look at the guests he noticed one man who was not wearing a wedding garment, and said to him, “How did you get in here, my friend, without a wedding garment?” And the man was silent. Then the king said to the attendants, “Bind him hand and foot and throw him out into the dark, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.” For many are called, but few are chosen.

God of our beginnings and endings. You are with us on the journeys of our lives. You accompany us when we can notice your presence; and you accompany us when we are unaware. We humbly ask that you be with us now; in our homes and in our community. Sustain us in gratitude and your unfailing Love for us. May we generously respond to Your Son Jesus and to the Holy Spirit. With renewed strength, may we praise you with our whole hearts. Amen. Our Lady of the Mission, Pray for Us.

Prayer Adapted from New Norcia WA Pilgrimage.

Greetings, my brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today’s Gospel passage tells us about a king who prepares a wedding banquet for his son (cf. Mt 22:1-14). He is a powerful man, but he is above all a generous father, who invites others to share in his joy. In particular, he reveals the goodness of his heart in the fact that he does not compel anyone, but invites everyone, even though this way of his exposes him to the possibility of refusal. Take note: he prepares a banquet, freely offering an opportunity to meet, an opportunity for a feast. This is what God prepares for us: a banquet, to be in communion with him and among ourselves. And we, all of us, are therefore invited by God. But a wedding banquet requires time and commitment on our part: it requires a “yes”: to go, to go to the Lord’s invitation. He invites, but he leaves us free.

This is the type of relationship that the Father offers us: he calls us to stay with him, leaving us the possibility to accept, or not accept, the invitation. He does not propose to us a relationship of subjection, but rather of fatherhood and sonship, which is necessarily conditioned by our free assent. God is respectful regarding freedom; very respectful. Saint Augustine uses a very beautiful expression in this regard, saying: “He who created us without our help will not save us without our consent” (Sermon CLXIX, 13). And certainly not because he does not have the capacity to do so – God is omnipotent! – but because, being love, he respects our freedom fully. God proposes: he does not impose, never.

Let us return, then, to the parable: the king – says the text – “sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come” (v.3). Here is the drama of the story: the “no” to God. But why do men refuse his invitation? Was it perhaps an unpleasant invitation? No, and yet – the Gospel says – “they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business” (v.5). They did not care, because they were thinking of their own affairs. And that king, who is a father, God, what does he do? He does not give up, he continues to invite; indeed, he extends the invitation, until he finds those who accept, among the poor. Among those who know they have little else, many come, until they fill the hall (cf. vv. 8-10).

Brothers and sisters, how many times do we fail to heed God’s invitation, because we are intent on our own affairs! Often, we struggle to have free time, but today Jesus invites us to find the time that frees: the time to dedicate to God, that lightens and heals our hearts, that increases peace, confidence and joy in us, that saves us from evil, loneliness and loss of meaning. It is worth it, because it is good to be with the Lord, to make space for him. Where? In the Mass, in listening to the Word, in prayer and also in charity, because by helping those who are weak or poor, by keeping company with those who are lonely, by listening to those who ask for attention, by consoling those who suffer, one is with the Lord, who is present in those in need. Many, however, think that these things are a “waste of time”, and so they lock themselves away in their private world; and it is sad. And this generates sadness. How many sad hearts there are! For this reason: because they are closed.

Let us ask ourselves, then: how do I respond to God’s invitations? What space do I give him in my days? Does the quality of my life depend on my affairs and my free time, or on love for the Lord and for my brethren, especially those most in need? Let us ask ourselves this.

May Mary, who with her “yes” made room for God, help us not to be deaf to his invitations.

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