Ambrose continues to support families across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, with its latest service locations at St Bernadette’s Lalor Park, St Mary MacKillop South Penrith, and Holy Family Granville East blessed by Bishop of Parramatta, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv.
To kick off Term 1, official blessings were held at each of these locations, drawing families, children, and members of the local parish, schools, and Ambrose community.
At the blessing of Ambrose School Age Care at St Mary MacKillop South Penrith, Bishop Vincent emphasised the foundational role of Christ in these services.
“Ambrose centres are a place where you can come and experience the light of Christ, a place of not just fun and laughter, but also a place where you develop and nurture relationships with one another,” Bishop Vincent said.
He went on to explain that these centres serve as spaces where individuals can grow and discover their true potential in the sight of God.
“We bless this place so it is always filled with love, kindness, and hope — the light of Jesus Christ.”
Blessing of the new Ambrose service at St Bernadette’s, Lalor Park by Very Rev Peter Williams, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. Image: Community Ventures
Ambrose is a social enterprise of Community Ventures. Community Ventures CEO Anthony Goonan expressed his excitement with the growth of its services, particularly Holy Family Granville East and St Mary MacKillop.
He highlighted the remarkable journey of St Bernadette’s Lalor Park, “which has almost a quarter of the school attending on some afternoons.”
Anthony attributed the success of the services to the collaboration and unity in Christ.
“We are grateful to four important groups of people, all united by Christ: the children and their families, the Ambrose Educators, the school community, and the Diocese of Parramatta,” he said.
“We are privileged to bring our services to the community.”
Students attending the new Ambrose service at Holy Family, Granville. Image: Community Ventures
Ambrose’s Out of Hours School Age Care Service Coordinator Taylor Moynihan, located at St Mary Mackillop said a unique bond between the children, their families, and the school community makes her service a special place.
“We have forged a strong bond with our school and parish community, working collectively to enhance the experience for everyone involved,” Taylor said.
She describes it as “the unity of all parties coming together to help grow the next generation.”
Ambrose is looking forward to blessing another three newly opened before and after school services shortly; St Margaret Mary’s Merrylands, Holy Family Luddenham, and Trinity Kemps Creek.
All community and Parish members are warmly invited to attend and participate in these celebrations. Details to come.
For more information visit www.ambrose.org.au
