“Come and Have Breakfast.”

 When it comes to breakfast, people around the world have developed an astonishing array of rituals and traditions, each reflecting their unique culture, history, and geography. Breakfast isn’t merely about satisfying hunger; it’s a celebration of life, a way to connect with one’s roots, and an expression of love.

 In Italy, breakfast is a sweet affair, quite literally. Italians indulge in a "dolce colazione," which translates to a "sweet breakfast." Imagine sipping a cappuccino alongside a freshly baked cornetto (like a croissant) filled with jam or chocolate!

 Japanese breakfasts often include a combination of steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and various pickled vegetables, while “Down Under” breakfast wouldn't be complete without a generous slather of Vegemite on toast and a hot “cuppa”.

Was it a coincidence then that Jesus prepared breakfast for the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias?

He had prepared a charcoal fire with fish cooking on it and bread ready for them to eat. It was in this most familiar act of love that they recognised their risen Lord. Jesus stepped forward, took the bread and gave it to them and the same with the fish.

The disciples didn’t recognise Jesus at first, his identity became more apparent to them after his actions and after they had spent time with him. It was in this very familiar setting that Jesus asked them to be leaders, to feed his sheep and to do so with love. He challenged them to a life of service.

Pope Francis spoke extensively on the importance of service. His common theme was that service was not just an action, but a way of life, a core aspect of the Christian faith. He said, "True power is service," emphasising that leadership should be dedicated to the needs of others, especially the most vulnerable.

Before Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday, tens of thousands of dignitaries, pilgrims and tourists had the chance to line up and pay their respects. But in the moments before his casket was interred in a simple tomb at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, a group of people living in poverty had the final chance to honour him. 

The Vatican says it was an indication of the "privileged place" that people living in poverty have in God's heart, and in Francis', who spent his pontificate advocating for the marginalised.  (CBC News 24.4.25)

"Even in the developed world, the effects of unjust structures and actions are all too apparent. Our efforts must aim at restoring hope, righting wrongs, maintaining commitments, and thus promoting the well-being of individuals and of peoples." Pope Francis

In reflection, it may be in our most familiar places and routines that we will also be challenged to greater loving service just like the disciples were challenged that morning on the Sea of Tiberius.

Sharon Beashel - Teacher/ Parishioner

ST BERNARD’S PARISH SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2025 – CONFIRMATION

Families of children wishing to participate in the Sacrament of Confirmation are invited to attend an upcoming Information/enrolment evening on Thursday 8th May at 5.00pm at St Bernard’s Church.

As the parents of children who were presented for Baptism, you have made a public commitment to accept the responsibility of raising your child in the practice of the Catholic faith. You child has since celebrated the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist and it is now time for you to consider the next major step in your child’s journey of faith, Confirmation.

COST of the program is $40 and can be paid by EFTPOS or cash on the evening

IF YOUR CHILD HAS A STOLE, PLEASE BRING IT ALONG SO WE CAN ARRANGE THE EMBROIDERY

Looking forward to meeting you all.