Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Re: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update
Given the current debate on COVID-19 vaccines, the Diocese of Parramatta will be sharing information from the Catholic Church on this topic.
We have made available in 12 foreign languages the position of the Catholic Church – from the Holy Father to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith – on COVID-19 vaccines. This information has been supplied via social media tiles you can share with your faith communities and for those whom English is a second language.
These tiles can be downloaded here: parracatholic.org/covid19/#vaccine
We know that some Catholics might have legitimate concerns about the ethical origins of some vaccines. The Catholic Church, through the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, has declared that the use of such vaccines does not constitute formal cooperation with abortion. Therefore, all vaccines which are recognised as clinically safe and effective may be taken by Catholics in good conscience.
The Holy Father, Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Bishop Vincent, and several other bishops have also been vaccinated.
Of course, any decision regarding vaccines is to be left to the individual and should only be made in consultation with their doctor and health professional.
I encourage you to share these social media tiles with your parishioners, staff, and volunteers.
Yours in Christ,
Very Rev Peter G. Williams
Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia
