1 October 2021
The Memorial of St Thérèse of the Child Jesus
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
As your Bishop you are all constantly in my prayers, especially during this difficult time. Our Diocese has been working with the health authorities and other religious leaders towards the day when we can once again tangibly express our faith through gathering in our dear churches to celebrate the Eucharist.
Given the recent announcements by the NSW Government of the easing of restrictions between 11 October and 1 December, I write to provide you an update on how this will impact the Diocese of Parramatta.
It is to the core of our ministry that we resume our pastoral care of the people as soon as that is practicable. In order to accommodate all the People of God, I have determined that we should wait until the 80% threshold has been achieved before we reopen our churches as this would then permit all Catholics to attend regardless of vaccination status. The projection is that this is likely sometime towards the end of October.
Once a date has been finalised by the NSW Government as to when 80% fully vaccinated has been achieved an advice to reopen will come from the Chancery.
With my prayers for you and your communities,
Most Reverend Vincent Long Van Nguyen OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
Download Bishop Vincent’s message in pdf form here.
