News and Events across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond
Diocese of Parramatta Notices for Sunday 16 August 2026
Positions Vacant:
- Administration Assistant (Part-Time) – Sacred Heart Parish, Mount Druitt South
- Senior Development Manager – Diocese of Parramatta
More details at: parracatholic.org/jobs
St Carlo Acutis’s Eucharistic Miracles Exhibition: 9-23 August
Designed by St Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, this exhibition documents reported Eucharistic miracles from around the world, and it is touring parishes right across our Diocese. Next, it comes to Our Lady of the Angels, Rouse Hill, from 9-23 August. Students, teachers and parishioners are invited, entry is free and no bookings are required. To see where the exhibition is heading next across the Diocese, visit parracatholic.org/iec2028/
Music for the Sacraments of Initiation Workshop: 20 August
All musicians in the diocese are invited to attend the Office for Worship’s new upcoming music workshop on August 20th. Mr Eric Grella will focus this workshop on choosing music that is suitable for the Sacraments of Initiation. These include: Baptisms, First Holy Communions and Confirmations. It will be held on Thursday 20th August at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre from 7pm-8:30pm. Please register via the link: parracatholic.org/events/music-for-the-sacraments-of-initiation-workshop or contact ofw@parracatholic.org or 0460 037 795.
Rosary Making Workshops
Come along for a fun evening of community and crafting rosary beads that will then be donated to the sick and dying in hospitals across our Diocese. The craft evening will be held on the following days: 20 August, 10 September, 23 September, 15 October, 5 November. Costs are $5 per person – payable on arrival (includes all materials). To register and for more information, please visit parracatholic.org/rosary-workshops
Bishop Vincent Presents: Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell and Elisabetta Pique: 26 August
Bishop Vincent, in partnership with the University of Notre Dame Australia and Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese, warmly invites all to a special public lecture featuring two of the world’s most respected Vatican journalists, Gerard O’Connell and Elisabetta Piqué. Hear their insider’s account of the historic transition from Pope Francis to Pope Leo XIV. Wednesday 26 August, 6:00–8:00pm, at St Patrick’s Cathedral Cloister Hall, 1 Marist Pl, Parramatta. All are welcome. Register at parracatholic.org/oconnellpique
MET Natural Fertility: Sympto-Thermal Method (STM) Initial Instruction via Teams: 27 August
Tuesday 27 August, 7:30-8:30pm. The most important symptom alerting women to ovulation is used in all methods of Natural Family Planning (NFP). The Sympto-Thermal Method includes measuring your basal body temperature, which also confirms ovulation! This method is 99.6% effective in postponing pregnancy and helps couples identify the best time to achieve pregnancy! If you would like to refresh your knowledge and skills or begin NFP then this is the session for you! To register visit parracatholic.org/natural-fertility
Adult Confirmations 2026: 29 August
The Office for Worship will host a Catechesis and Formation Day for those candidates (16+) interested in receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this year. Held on Saturday 29 August, 9.30am – 2.00pm at Bishop Bede Heather Centre, Blacktown. A light lunch will be provided. It is recommended that all sponsors attend the catechesis day. A contribution of $40 is suggested from the candidates to assist in covering the Catechesis Day.
The Confirmation will take place on Tuesday 1 September 2026 at 7:30pm at the St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Please Note: Enrolment forms and a copy of Baptismal Certificates should be sent to OFW before Monday 18 August 2026. For more information, please contact the Office for Worship ofw@parracatholic.org or 0460 037 795.
Married Couples’ Retreat – Reflect, Renew & Reconnect: 5 September
Married couples are invited to a special retreat day, Reflect, Renew & Reconnect, on Saturday 5 September 2026 at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre, 1 Marion Street, Blacktown. The day runs from 8:30am–4.30pm and includes Mass with Bishop Vincent, light refreshments, and lunch. Couples will explore topics including Expressions of Love, Living Your Vocation of Marriage, 7 Principles of Making Marriage Work, Creating a Marriage First Aid Kit, and a Couple Prayer and Commitment Ceremony. Cost is $45 per couple. Places are strictly limited. Bookings are essential. Register now at parracatholic.org/marriedcouplesretreat/.
MET Natural Fertility Session: 7pm via Teams: 10 September
Are you looking for help to track your fertility cycle? Come and explore a Natural, Effective, Healthy and Scientific approach to achieve, space/avoid pregnancy or monitor women’s health. Engaged and married couples, single women, and those wanting to know more about their menstrual cycles are welcome to attend. If you’d like to learn the Creighton Model FertilityCare System https://fccau.org/ this free session is valued at $125 and gives you all the information you need to be ready for Session 2. To register or for more information visit parracatholic.org/natural-fertility
Music Workshop for Weddings & Funerals: 10 September
All musicians in the diocese are invited to attend the Office for Worship’s new upcoming music workshop on 10 September at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre from 7pm-8:30pm. Mr Eric Grella will focus this workshop on choosing music that is suitable for weddings and funerals and will be present to answer any questions you may have. Please register via parracatholic.org/music-workshop
Annual African Mass 2026: 27 September
The African Catholic communities of the Diocese of Parramatta, in collaboration with the Diocesan Office for Migrant Chaplaincies and the Nigerian and Ghanaian Chaplaincies, warmly invite you to the African Mass 2026. Join us on Sunday 27 September from 1pm–5pm at Mary Queen of the Family Parish (St Patrick’s Church), 51–59 Allawah Street, Blacktown, for a vibrant celebration of faith, culture and community. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided following Mass. All are welcome.
Across our Parishes
The theme for 2026 is “Totus Tuus” (“Totally Yours”). There will be a decade of the rosary, reflection and personal prayer at each church. Adoration and Confession will be available at times also. This event is perfect for active women who would like to spend a day in prayer whilst pushing themselves physically in order to pray for themselves or family. Water, snacks and light lunch provided. Registration is essential $20 www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1569560 For more info call Victoria on 0494173359 or email bethanypilgrimage@gmail.com
‘Be The Witness’ Musical: 10-13 September
Arrives at Riverside Theatres Parramatta, 10–13 September. Presented by Mary Queen of the Family Parish, with a full cast and chorus now in place and rehearsals beginning this weekend, excitement is building. Gather your parish and book now at bethewitness.com.au
Neocatechumenal Way Community Grow in Faith Program for Adults: From 10 August
The Neocatechumenal Way Community from Baulkham Hills Parish will be hosting a new series of Catholic talks every Monday and Thursday at 7:30pm. starting Monday, 10 August. These evenings are open to everyone aged 14 and above— for those who have been practising their faith for years, those who have drifted away from the Church, and anyone simply curious about the Christian faith. Sessions will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Baulkham Hills in the Parish Hall (underneath the church). For more information, call Lucas 0428 813 256.
Feast of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni at Mary Immaculate Parish Quakers Hill-Schofields: 5-7 September
The parish community warmly invites all parishioners and families to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni at Mary Immaculate Parish, Quakers Hill. Triduum Novena Masses 5–7 September 2026 Rosary: 6:30 pm Mass: 7:00 pm Feast Day Mass Tuesday, 8 September 2026 7:00 pm Come and honour Our Lady of Vailankanni, seeking her intercession for good health, healing and blessings for our families and communities. All are welcome to join in prayer and fellowship. “Our Lady of Good Health, pray for us.”
Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary Jubilee Year Celebration: 13 September
The Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary is pleased to invite you to the Centenary Jubilee Celebration of the international community at Mount Schoenstatt, Mulgoa. The day will begin with a Solemn Holy Mass followed by light refreshments and an official program. Date: Sunday, 13th September 2026 Main celebrant: The Most Reverend Anthony Fisher OP (Archbishop of Sydney). Please be seated by 9:45am for a 10am start. The celebration is to conclude at approximately 3pm. RSVP is required for catering purposes by 1st September 2026. Parish or chaplaincy bus groups are encouraged, and reservation is essential for parking purposes. Please ensure you arrive early to secure a parking space. General parking will be available onsite in the valley.
Westmead Parish Gala Dinner: Friday 18 September
Join Sacred Heart Parish (Westmead) in celebrating its Diamond Jubilee, Friday 18 Sept, 6:30pm at Waterview Function Centre, Bicentennial Park. Following canapes on arrival, the evening includes a three-course dinner, DJ entertainment, raffles and auctions, with all funds going towards building the new parish church. For ticket enquiries, contact the parish office: office@sacredheartwestmead.com.au or see flyer on website: sacredheartwestmead.com.au/
Baulkham Hills Parish Gala Dinner: Friday 18 September
Join Baulkham Hills Parish for a memorable evening in support of their treasured heritage-listed church on Friday 18 September at 6:00pm at Fontana Amarosa, 49 Balmoral St, Blacktown. The evening includes a three-course dinner, live band & DJ, raffles and auction prizes. To buy tickets, call (02) 9639 0598 or email admin@parishofbaulkhamhills.org.au.
Kenthurst Parish Dinner Dance: Friday 18 September
All are welcome to attend the St Madeleine’s Dinner Dance on Friday 18th September at 6.30pm at the Dural Club, 662A Old Northern Road, Dural. Cost is $130 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.
Download promotional material and a flyer on how to donate here.
Free Legal Clinic – Catholic Care, Emerton
Catholic Care offers free weekly legal advice every Thursday from 11am at 11 Emert Parade, Emerton. Areas covered include Family Law, Care and Protection, Local Court matters, Wills and Estates, and Traffic Offences. Bookings are recommended – call 8843 2500. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Be a stronger you – Free empowerment course for women
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains has partnered with Survivor Voice Australia to run a free six-week empowerment program for women who have experienced domestic violence and abuse. The program will be held in the lower Blue Mountains on Wednesday mornings. To find out when the next program starts, contact Catholic Care on (02) 8843 2500 or Survivor Voice Australia on 0422 876 700.
Other Notices
Live the Mission Weekend with the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth: 22-23 August
This weekend experience welcomes single women aged 18–35 to step into the daily life of the Consecrated Women from the 22-23 August, 2026. Participants stay with the community in Marayong, join their rhythm of prayer, share meals and conversations, and accompany them in their ministries. Day one also includes a full day retreat with Mass, Adoration, and spiritual input. Register before 17 August: https://forms.gle/3oDN5419s5Q1qnTh7. For more information, contact Sr Christine Ramada at vocationscsfn@gmail.com.
Josephine Justice Network 150-Day Campaign: A Home for Every Neighbour Closing Ceremony: 27 August
Over the past 150 days, we have listened deeply, built relationships, shared stories, and acted together through our A Home for Every Neighbour campaign. Date: Thursday 27 August 2026. Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm (Followed by Afternoon Tea). Location: Mary MacKillop Memorial Chapel | 7-11 Mount St North Sydney 2060. RSVP by Friday 21 August by registering using THIS LINK.
Homecoming Silent Retreat: Carmel House Varroville: 28-30 August
“His father saw him, ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Lk 15: 20. Your heavenly Father waits for you to come away with him for a weekend of silently soaking in his great love for you. Embrace this opportunity for encountering deep peace and serenity. This retreat is for men and women aged 18+. Hosted by the MGL Sisters. Choose from a weekend retreat or extend your time with a 5 day retreat option. w/e: trybooking.com/DIDBK extended: trybooking.com/DIDBU
Divine Retreat Centre: August Events
The Divine Retreat Centre offers a peaceful sanctuary for individuals and families seeking spiritual growth and healing, centred on the devotion to the Divine Mercy. Each month, they host residential retreats, one-day prayer services and personal retreats. For more information: divineretreatcentre.org/events
ARISE AND SHINE Retreat: Saturday 26 September
From 1:00 – 5:30 pm Rosary + Praise and Worship + Talk + Prayer of Empowerment + Fellowship Speaker: MARINA GEORGE Catholic preacher, who loves sharing her deep relationship with God the Father, Love of God the Son and the Holy Spirit Venue: St Joseph’s Parish Hall, 11 Walz St. Rockdale, NSW (Parking ENTRY at Parker St.) Booking Essential, Afternoon Tea Provided Enquiries: Helen: 0433 455 114 Esperance: 0407 749 182 E: jlowcommunity@gmail.com
Australian National University survey: Worldviews and ways of life in Australia
ANU researchers are exploring how perceptions and ways of thinking (i.e. worldviews) relate to experiences and ways of living (i.e. participation and inclusion) in Australia. Ensure your community’s representation in this meaningful research: Complete the survey (https://anu.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0Ao5q9gu3ysrbVQ) and forward on.
