News and Events across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond
Correction – Catholic Outlook Magazine
Time change: Wedding Anniversary Mass
The Diocese of Parramatta Wedding Anniversary Mass will now be held at 2pm on Sunday 26 October at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta (not 11am as previously advertised). Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv will celebrate the Mass, followed by a light lunch. Register by 20 October: marriage@parracatholic.org | 0488 000 211
Diocese of Parramatta Notices for Sunday 14 September 2025
Positions Vacant
- Parish Secretary – Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Kellyville
More details at: parracatholic.org/about/jobs/
Grab your FREE copy of the Catholic Outlook Magazine!
The latest quarterly edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine is out now, keeping you connected with exciting news and events in the Diocese of Parramatta. In this Spring edition, you will find:
- Fr Adam Carlow’s popular marriage course
- The parish with an abundance of altar servers
- Diocesan Award winners celebrated
- A cuppa with Fr Andrew Fornal OP
Pick up your copy from your church or parish office today! Also available online via catholicoutlook.org/magazine
Download promotional material: A3 poster and social media tile.
Bishop’s Father’s Day Appeal – supporting our senior priests as they continue to serve
This Father’s Day, as we thank the father figures in our lives, let’s also honour our spiritual fathers — the priests who nurture our faith. Even after stepping back from administration, they continue to serve in faithful ways: offering sacraments, celebrating Masses, hearing confessions, assisting at services, and serving as chaplains in aged care. Your generosity helps ensure our ageing priests receive the care, comfort, and dignity they deserve in this next chapter of their lives. Please give generously at parracatholic.org/fathersdayappeal or scan the QR code. Thank you.
Download promotional material here: QR code and PowerPoint slide.
Thank you for your legacy of faith, hope and charity
On International Legacy Day (13 September), we thank those who continue to advance our ministry through charitable giving. By leaving a legacy gift in your Will to the Church, you’re planting seeds of faith that blossom well beyond your lifetime. Learn more: https://parracatholic.org/donate/will/
Bishop Vincent Presents Cardinal Stephen Chow SJ: 15 September
The second of two Bishop Vincent Presents public lectures in September will feature Cardinal Stephen Chow SJ, Bishop of Hong Kong and one of the most senior Church leaders in Asia. He will be presenting on Monday 15 September at St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall, Parramatta on the topic of ‘Bridge Building’. With a background in psychology and education, and a deep pastoral heart, Cardinal Chow brings wisdom, courage, and compassion to the challenges facing the Church in our time. Register today by visiting https://parracatholic.org/cardinalchow/
Mary and Synodality Short Course: 17, 24 September
Join us for a 4-week formation series, Mary & Synodality: Perspectives in Marian Theology for our Synodal Church, presented by Qwayne Guevara (MA Theology and Ministry, Grad Dip Theol). Through Scripture, theology, and contemporary thought, we will explore how Mary’s witness offers inspiration for servant leadership, Spirit-filled collaboration, compassionate accompaniment, and hope-filled discernment in a synodal Church. Sessions will be held on Wednesdays in September at the Bethany Centre, 470 Church St, North Parramatta. Register today at parracatholic.org/maryandsynodality
Download promotional material here.
Register now for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival
The Diocese of Parramatta will be joining the Church in Australia at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) in Melbourne from 30 November to 3 December 2025! Join thousands of young Catholics from across Australia for an unforgettable festival featuring inspiring guest speakers, artists, and musicians. Registrations are open for young people aged 18-25. Over 25? Consider becoming a small group leader! For more details and to register, see parracatholic.org/connect/acyf or email qwayne.guevara@parracatholic.org
Promotional material: registrations open and how to register information.
MET Natural Fertility Instruction Sessions: 18 and 23 September
MET Natural Fertility are organising a series of instruction sessions on the Natural Family Planning methods offered by the Diocese of Parramatta via Zoom. Learn how to chart your cycle, space out pregnancies and identify the best time to reach your family goals. The last sessions of the year will be held on Thursday 18 September at 7.15pm for the Creighton Model and Tuesday 23 September for the Billings Ovulation Method at 7.30pm. Private and confidential instruction is also available. For more information and to register, please visit parracatholic.org/natural-fertility
Download promotional material here for the Creighton Model session and Billings Ovulation Method session.
Diocesan Season of Creation Mass: 20 September
St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Diocesan Laudato Si’ Action Team invite you to the annual Season of Creation Mass with Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv. The entire universe speaks of God’s love (Pope Francis) and all of creation praises our God (Psalm 148). Let us join in this praise and in Jesus’ own mission to care for creation (Pope Leo) on Saturday 20 September 2025, 10am, St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Pl, Parramatta. Morning tea will be served in the Cloister Hall after Mass.
Download promotional material here.
Mass for Musicians: 24 September
In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we invite all those involved in Music Ministry across the Diocese to join us for our Mass for Musicians. Join us on 24 September, 7:30pm at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. We ask that you arrive at 7pm and are seated by 7:15pm. To register your attendance and the number of guests you are bringing, please RSVP via our website by Friday 19 September. If you are unable to register via the form, please contact ofw@parracatholic.org or call 0460 037 795.
Download promotional material here.
Registrations now open for Diocesan Retreat Opportunities
The diocese is hosting three retreat opportunities for adults of all ages to engage more with this Jubilee Year of Hope. Take the to step away from your usual routine to experience a diocesan retreat – a sacred space for prayer, reflection, renewal and encounter with God. Registrations are now open. For more details and to register, see the three options of retreats below:
Download promotional material for 15 November.
Ministry of Communion to the Sick and Dying Formation: 8 November
Are you currently taking Communion to the sick and dying in the Diocese of Parramatta? If so, please join the Office for Worship for a day of ongoing formation to further your knowledge and understanding of this important topic. Saturday 8 November from 9:30am – 2pm at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre, Blacktown. Morning tea and Lunch provided. For more information and to register before 3 Nov, please contact the Office for Worship Team OFW@parracatholic.org or 0488 000 211.
Download promotional material here.
Design our next Catholic Outlook Magazine front cover!
We’re inviting you to design the front cover of the Catholic Outlook Magazine’s Christmas and Summer 2025 edition! People of all ages from across the Diocese of Parramatta are welcome to submit their artwork for consideration. Let’s make this Advent and Christmas season a canvas of faith and joy – together. Please submit your entry by Friday 7 November 2025 – with a short description of your artwork – via parracatholic.org/artcomp
Download promotional material here.
Diocese of Parramatta Tribunal Office
The Tribunal of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Parramatta is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, to offer advice and assistance regarding marriage annulments and dissolution of marriages. Interviews are preferably conducted in person with Zoom and telephone interviews in special circumstances. Please contact the Tribunal Office on (02) 8838 3480 or email tribunal@parracatholic.org.
Volunteer Communicators Network
Are you savvy with a camera, writing or social media? We want to hear from you! Share your interest with us to support our storytelling in Catholic Outlook, our websites and social media. Name/contact details are required: parracatholic.org/communicators
Download promotional material here.
Across our Parishes
Volunteers needed at Catholic Care Emerton!
Catholic Care is looking for volunteers to help at their Walk-In Centre in Emerton on Tuesdays to Thursdays. Volunteers would assist welcoming people into the drop-in centre, greeting clients for counselling appointments, assisting the local Aunties’ yarning and art gatherings, reception of the OzHarvest food delivery and overall assistance with Catholic Care projects and programs. For more information, please contact Catholic Care on (02) 8843 2500.
Volunteers needed at Catholic Care’s Mamre Creche
Are you great with young kids? Catholic Care is looking for friendly, caring volunteers to support staff during crèche sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm at Mamre House, Orchard Hills. If you enjoy spending time with young children (aged 0–5) and have a few hours to spare, we’d love to hear from you. Volunteers will need to obtain a Working with Children Check and Police Check. To help make a difference in the lives of local families, call Catholic Care on (02) 8843 2500.
Fr Joseph Lam book on Pope Leo XIV
Fr Joseph Lam, Parish Priest at the Parish of Baulkham Hills, has produced a new book that explores the traces of St Augustine in the words and messages of the successors of St Peter since 2005: Benedict XVI, Francis and Leo XIV. The book is $45, with proceeds to help the renovation of the old heritage building at Baulkham Hills. To pre-order the book, please contact admin@parishofbaulkhamhills.org.au.
Glenmore Park Parish Patronal Feast Day celebrations: 18 – 21 September
Download promotional material here.
Kenthurst Parish Dinner Dance: 19 September
All are welcome to attend St Madeleine’s Dinner Dance on Friday 19 September at 6pm at the Dural Club, 662A Old Northern Road, Dural. Cost is $120 and includes a three-course dinner. To enquire about tickets or how you can donate to the silent auction (goods, services or monetary contributions), please contact Sally Coppini on stmadsdinnerdance@gmail.com or 0407 942 986.
Download promotional material and a flyer on how to donate here.
Our Lady of Peñafrancia Celebrations: 20 September
The Australian Devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia are inviting you, your family and friends to join them in celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia on Saturday 20 September. Mass will be held at 10am at St Nicholas of Myra Parish, Penrith, followed by a fluvial procession on the Nepean River. Lunch and entertainment will then be celebrated at the Factory Road end of Tench Reserve, Jamisontown until 2.30pm.
Download promotional material here.
Parish of Richmond St Monica’s Spring Fair: 20 September
All are invited to celebrate the St Monica’s Spring Fair on Saturday 20 September from 9am to 3pm at the corner of Windsor St and Bourke St, Richmond. Enjoy a delightful day with kids and family, featuring an array of entertaining activities. Indulge in exciting games, delicious treats, captivating performances, and more! Opportunity knocks for those wishing to hold a stall, donate a prize or voucher or be a Spring Fair sponsor. For more information, contact admin@parishofrichmond.org.au
Download promotional material here: flyer 1 and flyer 2
Baulkham Hills Parish Community Fete: 21 September
Join the Baulkham Hills Parish for their Community Fete on Sunday, 21 September 2025 from 10am-4pm, at St Michael’s Primary School, Chapel Lane, Baulkham Hills. There will be delicious food, music, entertainment, games and activities for all!
Download promotional material here.
Winston Hills Parish Faith Seeking Understanding Series: 25 September
St Paul the Apostle Parish, Winston Hills, invites you to attend the next in our Faith Seeking Understanding series presented by Christian Stephen, a lecturer at Notre Dame University, on the topic of Archangels. The event will be held on Thursday 25 September from 7.45pm at the Parish Centre. You are welcome to attend the 7pm Mass beforehand. Entry is free. For more information, contact the parish office on (02) 9639 6516 or email winstonhills@parracatholic.org
Season of Creation Camping Trip: 3-6 October
Set aside your busy lifestyle for a few days to join with friends, family and other members of the faith community to celebrate the Season of Creation. Enjoy a relaxed camping experience for the whole family with optional activities to engage in fun, creative and prayerful ways with our Creator and creation. The trip will run from Friday 3 to Monday 6 October at Wooglemai Catholic Bush Retreat Centre, Oakdale. Campers are welcome to arrive from Friday afternoon to get set up and also stay beyond Mass on Sunday for an informal time together until Monday. Individual campers: $40; Camping couples: $75; Family camping groups: $75-110. For more information and to register visit: www.seasonofcreationcamping.org
Download promotional material here.
Jesuit Refugee Services Fundraising Dinner: 10 October
We warmly invite you to join Jesuit Refugee Service Australia for a night of faith, fellowship, and hope at our annual fundraiser, An Evening of Hope, on Friday, 10 October 2025 at St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall. Our evening will begin at 6pm with Mass, followed by dinner, enjoying an inspiring program of raffles, entertainment, and heartfelt stories all in support of JRS’s mission to accompany, serve, and advocate for those forced to flee. Tickets are $160 per person, or $1,200 for a table of 8. Reserve your place and purchase your ticket here: JRS Australia 2025 Fundraiser Dinner– An Evening of Hope or via the QR code.
Download promotional material here.
Kellyville Parish Marian Procession: 11 October
To celebrate their patronal feast day, the youth of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Kellyville, are organising a Marian procession on Saturday 11 October. Mass begins at 6pm, followed by a procession to the Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents. All are welcome to join the parish as they gather again to pray through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother.
Download promotional material here.
Mercy Works 25th Anniversary Celebrations: 23 October
Mercy Works, the development arm of the Sisters of Mercy Australia and Papua New Guinea, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with an evening of inspiration, storytelling and connection on Thursday 23 October at St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall from 5pm to 7pm. Tickets are $60 per person. Please RSVP by 12 October or while tickets last by visiting https://events.humanitix.com/mercy-works-25th-anniversary-celebration-and-fundraiser. For more information, contact MercyWorks on (02) 9564 1911 or visit mercyworks.org.au.
Castle Hill Parish Melbourne Cup luncheon: 4 November
St Bernadette’s Parish, Castle Hill, are hosting a Melbourne Cup Lunch on Tuesday 4 November 2025 from 12pm-3:30pm at The Heritage House, Kenthurst. Tickets are $120pp, and includes canapes on arrival, 2 course lunch (mains and dessert). Drinks are buy-as-you-go. Sweeps and games will be available to enter, with prizes to be won! Tickets on sale now at the St Bernadette’s Parish Office, Castle Hill, or online via the QR Code. All Welcome.
Download promotional material: flyer and QR code.
Catholic Care Sewing and Crochet classes
All are welcome to join Catholic Care’s weekly sewing and crochet classes every Thursday during school terms, 10am-1pm at Mamre House and Farm, 181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills. Learn new skills, connect with others, and enjoy a friendly, supportive environment. Perfect for anyone wanting to meet new people! To register, contact Catholic Care on (02) 8843 2500 or email enquiries@catholiccarewsbm.org.au.
Download promotional material here.
Low Cost Counselling Services
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains provides low cost and affordable counselling services for individuals seeking support. Whether you’re looking for general guidance or assistance with specific challenges like grief, loss, or family matters, Catholic Care is here to help. Call Catholic Care on 8843 2500 for a friendly chat today.
Mount Schoenstatt Monthly Shrine Time for Youth and Young Adults
Join us for Monthly Holy Hour for youth and young adults at the Schoenstatt Shrine, Mulgoa, every fourth Sunday of the month for praise, worship, silence, prayer, reflection and benediction at the Shrine. There is the opportunity to go to confession and there is a small social gathering afterwards. For further information please contact Sr M Rita via srrita@schoenstatt.org.au or 0493 026 628. Web: https://schoenstatt.org.au/
Mount Schoenstatt Monthly Shrine Time for men
Men at the Shrine is a monthly hour for men at the Schoenstatt Shrine in Mulgoa, held on the second Wednesday of the month from 8-9pm. The hour includes a brief reflection, silent personal prayer and the opportunity for confession. The Shrine has been a place of pilgrimage in the Diocese since 1968 and in 2025 is also one of the three locations in the diocese to gain the Jubilee Indulgence.
Other Notices
Caritas Australia prayer for Gaza
On a daily basis, we are all hearing reports of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza that has claimed over 58,000 lives to date, with tens of thousands more wounded or missing under rubble. Caritas is calling for an immediate ceasefire. Pope Leo XIV encourages us, “one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace.” Caritas Australia invites us to pray for the people of Gaza. If you are able to support Caritas Australia’s Gaza Appeal, please donate online at www.caritas.org.au/gaza or phone 1800 024 413.
Download material here: Word document with prayer and PowerPoint presentation.
Catholic Healthcare Spiritual Care Series
Catholic Healthcare Mackillop House, Norwest, is hosting an 8-week Spiritual Care Series training throughout September and October. The Spiritual Care Series is a globally respected program that equips individuals with practical skills to provide meaningful Pastoral and Spiritual support to older individuals throughout the ageing journey. Experience the deep fulfilment that comes from giving back and walking alongside others on their life journey. For more information contact Adrian 0421 407 270 or complete the registration form ‘Spiritual Care Series’ (at the bottom of the page) at: https://www.catholichealthcare.com.au/volunteers
Divine Retreat Centre offerings for September
The Divine Retreat Centre in Somersby, NSW is hosting a variety of single-day and weekend residential retreats throughout September including an Eucharistic Miracles Retreat and its last Sunday day retreat. All are welcome. For more information, please visit www.divineretreatcentre.org or contact (02) 4372 1598.
Download promotional material here.
Responding in Mercy – Pilgrims of Hope: 5 November
The Mercy Futures team is privileged to present Sr Áine Barrins RSM all the way from Ireland, who will be joining them in Parramatta to share her invaluable insights into Catherine McAuley, Woman of Hope. The conclusion to this presentation will take place on 5 November. Come along and bring a friend (or few) and be part of this unique presentation. The session will also be livestreamed, and the link will be provided closer to the date. Please RSVP to mercyfuture@parrasom.org.au with any dietary requirements by 29 October.
Download promotional material here.
Kairos Prison Ministry 30th Anniversary celebrations: 27 September
This year marks 30 years of Kairos Prison Ministry Australia—three decades of bringing hope, healing and the gospel to people affected by incarceration. To celebrate, Kairos is hosting an event on Saturday 27 September at Stanhope Anglican Church, Stanhope Gardens, from 12.45pm to 4.30pm, inviting past and present volunteers, supporters, and anyone curious about the work to come and give thanks. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream option is available—making it possible to tune in from anywhere across Australia. For more information, and to register, please visit kairos.org.au/30-years
Jesus Light of the World Communities “Face your Giants Retreat”: 27 September
The Jesus Light of the World Communities invites you to their ‘Face your giants retreat’ on Saturday 27 Septmeber from 1pm to 5.30pm at St Joseph’s Parish Hall, Rockdale. Overwhelmed by life’s battles? Discover the Victory through Jesus Christ. The retreat will include praise and worship, a talk, prayer ministry and fellowship. Afternoon tea will be served. Bookings are essential. For enquiries, please contact Helen on 0433 455 114, Esperance on 0407 749 182 or email jlowcommunity@gmail.com
Download promotional material here.
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council’s (NATSICC) National assembly will be held from Monday 29 September to Friday 3 October in the Hunter Valley. Celebrate and explore Indigenous culture and Catholic faith together on the lands of the Wonnarua people. Assembly highlights include a keynote address from journalist Stan Grant and ‘On Country experiences’. To register and find out more, visit https://www.natsicc.org.au/2025-assembly.html
Download promotional material here.
National Liturgy and Music Conference: 1 -3 October
The National Liturgy and Music Conference “Pilgrims of Hope: Transformed through Sacrament and Song” will be held from 1-3 October at the Hilton Hotel, Adelaide. The conference builds on the theme for the 2025 Jubilee Year of Mercy: Pilgrims of Hope as it speaks to the transformative power of the liturgical event, through sacrament and song, to change hearts and to inspire God’s people to be a Church on mission to bring the joyful proclamation of the Gospel to the world. Registration is $590, with rates available for students and concessions. To register and for more information, visit https://pilgrimsofhope.com.au/
Missionaries of God’s Love Creative Retreat: 10-12 October
Download promotional material here.
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Marriage Enrichment Weekend: 24-26 October
We are offering an opportunity for you to learn to become the best version of yourselves together and live your best life in love! Come and join us on 24-26 October at a Marriage Encounter Weekend at Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW – a stunning & tranquil oasis on the edge of Sydney. Book online at www.wwme.org.au or contact Christine & Terry Mahony on 0490 774 419 or nswbookings@wwme.org.au
Missionaries of God’s Love Immerse Silent Retreat: 31 October – 2 November
Dive deep into the graces of silence and contemplation. Immerse yourself in the love of God who waits for us to abide in Him. Join with the Saints and complete the Jubilee Year with a retreat focused on redemption, rest and refreshment. Join the Missionaries of God’s Love sisters from Friday 31 October to Sunday 2 November at Carmel House, Varroville. To register, please visit trybooking.com/CZPWY
