News and Events across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond
Diocese of Parramatta Notices
Positions Vacant:
- Administrative Support Coordinator – Diocese of Parramatta
More details at: parracatholic.org/employment
Fundraising Campaigns Manager – Put Your Faith Into Action For The Common Good
Parramatta Catholic Foundation is seeking a dynamic Fundraising Campaigns Manager, following Bronwyn Muir’s retirement. This is a heart-warming, for-purpose vocational opportunity to put your faith into action, supporting our mission to share Christ’s message of love and salvation with all. The role is pivotal to nurturing faith, hope and charity throughout Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains through the Diocese of Parramatta’s ministries including our Holy Spirit Seminary, Clergy Support Foundation (caring for retired and ill priests), Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (Special Religious Education) and Catholic Care’s social welfare services. For information please call Dianne Wigan, Head of Fundraising on 0408 922 478.
Thank You for supporting the Bishop’s Good Samaritan Appeal
Bishop Vincent, Parramatta Catholic Foundation and Catholic Care thank you whole-heartedly for your generosity and support for Catholic Care’s Community Drop-in Centres. Because of your kindness, Catholic Care can provide welcoming places for everyone in our community. And thanks to your compassion, Catholic Care can reach more of our vulnerable neighbours who may be isolated and in need of support. Thank you for being a Good Samaritan and for loving your neighbours in need. For anyone who hasn’t yet had a chance to donate, please visit yourcatholicfoundation.org.au/appeal.
Diocesan “Laudato Si’ Action Campaign” Launch: 22 April
On Friday 22 April, the annual Earth Day, the Diocese of Parramatta will respond to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor by launching a Diocesan “Laudato Si’ Action Campaign”. Via a video message, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv will invite all Catholic parishes, schools, families, and organisations across the Diocese to participate. Please visit parracatholic.org/laudatosi from 22 April to download the launch video and for further information.
Marriage Preparation Courses in 2022
Getting married in 2022? Let the Diocese of Parramatta help you prepare. Visit www.parracatholic.org/pmp to view weekend course dates, to book and pay. An online preparation called SmartLoving can also be booked via the website. For more information, email met@parracatholic.org or phone Karin on 0403 305 431 or Marisa on 0412 280 017.
Youth Ministry Leadership Pathway
A new pathway for leadership in youth ministry is here! Duc In Altum is an initiative of Catholic Youth Parramatta designed to provide practical youth ministry training, build community between youth leaders across the Diocese, and offer intentional time for prayer and reflection. For more information and details to sign up visit parracatholic.org/ducinaltum/ or email qwayne.guevara@parracatholic.org
Pastoral Formation offering leadership and formation courses in 2022
In 2022, we can still deepen our community connections and growth in faith! To encourage this, Pastoral Formation – Diocese of Parramatta has two programs FOR YOU – all offered in a COVID-safe manner.
1) Ministry Leadership Program: Perfect for current and aspiring ministry leaders. 10 or 20 sessions ($10/session).
2) Themes of Faith Program: Ideal for people interested in asking life & faith questions in discussion groups. 10 sessions ($5/session).
See our website pfparra.org.au or email met@parracatholic.org for more details
Office for Worship Resources available
The Office For Worship has a range of resources available for purchase for individuals and parishes. Resources such as parent material for a child’s baptism and a collation of prayers can be purchased from the Office For Worship by contacting (02) 8838 3457.
Dr Laurie Woods Gospel Study Series: Starting 29 April
All are invited to join the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) for catechesis on the Gospel of St Luke with Dr Laurie Woods over 5 Fridays starting 29 April. The sessions will be held from 10am to 2pm at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre (formerly the IFM), Blacktown. To RSVP, please contact ccassar.ccdparra@hotmail.com
View the draft Diocesan synthesis for the Synod of Bishops
From April 19, all are invited to VIEW the online version of the draft synthesis from the Diocese of Parramatta Writing Committee for the Synod of Bishops 2023. Visit https://parracatholic.org/synod-of-bishops/ and email met@parracatholic.org with your reflections. The Diocese of Parramatta is a ‘listening Church’ we invite continued dialogue through both the website and direct email address.
Respond to the Synod of Bishops draft report: 21 April
On April 21, all are invited to RESPOND to the draft synthesis from the Diocese of Parramatta Writing Committee for the Synod of Bishops 2023. Join us for the Exhibition Night via Zoom at 7pm for reflection and discussion. To register email met@parracatholic.org. The Diocese of Parramatta is a ‘listening Church’ we invite continued dialogue. For more information, visit https://parracatholic.org/synod-of-bishops/
Celebrate the Diocesan report to the Synod of Bishops: 1 May
On May 1 all are invited to CELEBRATE the final document of the Diocese of Parramatta submissions to the Synod of Bishops 2023. Join Bishop Vincent at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Seven Hills for this special gathering at the 9:30am mass. For catering purposes and to RSVP email met@parracatholic.org. The Diocese of Parramatta is a ‘listening Church’ we invite continued dialogue. For more information visit https://parracatholic.org/synod-of-bishops/
Catholic Outlook Lent/Easter edition out now!
Catholic Outlook Easter edition is out now and free to all parishioners. We feature a range of articles on choosing your next step in life as well as how the faithful across the Diocese celebrate Holy Week. Pick up your free copy from your local Catholic Church, Catholic School or Catholic office today.
Catholic schools across the Diocese are enrolling now!
Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Parramatta are enrolling now for 2023. To learn more please contact your local Catholic school or visit our website www.parra.catholic.edu.au/our-schools/find-a-school.
Diocese of Parramatta Tribunal is open
The Tribunal of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Parramatta remains open and committed to assisting anyone with enquiries regarding marriage annulments. Interviews are being conducted via telephone and Zoom in response to COVID-19. Please contact the Tribunal office on (02) 8838 3480 or email tribunal@parracatholic.org.
Diocese of Parramatta launches Plenary Council resource website
A new website provides resources for parishioners in the Diocese of Parramatta to stay involved in the Plenary Council, which is exploring what the future of our Church should look like. Beyond the First Assembly of the Plenary Council, visit parracatholic.org/plenary-2021/ to find a range of information, a Diocesan prayer and more as we move into a time of prayer, reflection, maturation and development.
Social Justice COVID-19 Food and Toiletries Drive
Under the remaining influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) and House of Welcome (HoW) cannot receive physical food and toiletry donations. However, many refugee families are still relying on their foodbanks or the provision of food vouchers. In this difficult time, please support JRS and HoW with a cash donation if you can. Find more information at parracatholic.org/diocesanfooddrive or call JRS on (02) 9356 3888 or HoW on (02) 9727 9290.
Arabic Mass available in the Diocese
There is an Arabic Mass open to everyone in the Diocese of Parramatta celebrated on the First Sunday of the month at 7.15pm in St Michael’s Church, Blacktown, celebrated by Fr Chadi Ibrahim SDB, Assistant Priest at Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown. For more information, please contact the parish office on (02) 9622 1125.
Mass available for the Nigerian Catholic Community
The Nigerian Catholic community come together to celebrate Mass every second and fourth Sundays of the month at 11am at Holy Family Church, South Granville, 200 The Trongate, Granville. For more information, please contact community chaplain Fr Chinonye Akamadu on 0451 174 438 or chuk.akamadu@parracatholic.org or Stella Nwosu on 0405 478 472.
God’s Word 2022 daily reflections booklet available at St Pat’s Gift Shop!
God’s Word 2022, a book of daily reflections, offers a great service for all who wish to unite their prayer with the Sacred Liturgy and be spiritually nourished by the Word of God. Copies are now available from St Patrick’s Gift Shop, located in the grounds of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta for $19.95. Visit the website www.stpatricksgiftshop.com or grab in store on Tuesdays to Fridays 10am-3pm and Sundays 9am-1pm.
St Patrick’s Cathedral Choir is seeking new singers
If you are a good singer and you sing tenor or bass, St Patrick’s Cathedral Choir is looking for you. The Cathedral Choir is seeking male voices, but recruitment is open to all, with paid and voluntary places available. Paid scholas are remunerated at between $2500 and $4000 per annum, depending on attendance. Here more of the Cathedral choir at facebook.com/choirSPC. Interested applicants can submit their expression of interest at https://bit.ly/3sLep7S.
St Marys Parish Perpetual Adoration
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, St Marys, is looking for Eucharistic Adorers to commit to a rostered weekly hour of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament in their Perpetual Adoration Chapel starting Sunday 24 April, Divine Mercy Sunday. Those who would like to assist can contact either Steven Buhagiar on 0415 600 290, Stella Buhagiar on 0415 600 103, or the parish office directly on (02) 9623 1962.
Other Notices
Donate to Caritas Australia’s Ukraine Appeal
Caritas Australia’s long-standing partner, Caritas Ukraine, is on the ground providing shelter, food, clean water, medicine and psychological support. Donate now to help the people of Ukraine. Donate today at www.caritas.org.au/ukraine or call 1800 024 413 toll free. Keep up to date on how Caritas agencies are responding to this crisis by visiting www.caritas.org.au/ukraine-news
Plenary Council Walking in the Spirit
The People of God are invited to make a prayerful journey towards the Second Assembly of the Plenary Council through the Walking in the Spirit prayer campaign. Walking in the Spirit begins on Easter Sunday 17 April and runs until the Second Assembly, which opens on Sunday 3 July. Resources have been created for use by individuals, families, schools, parishes and other Catholic communities. Find out more at www.plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/walkinginthespirit/
Support Mass for You at Home
Many people who are isolated, in prison, in hospital or don’t have internet rely on Mass for You at Home. The Catholic Mass is broadcast free-to-air each Sunday morning on Channel 10 and WIN at 6am. Find out more at www.massforyou.com.au
Catholic Earthcare Parishes Programs
Catholic Earthcare Australia now makes it easy for parishes to take up the Australian Bishops’ invitation from the 2021-22 Social Justice Statement to join them in pursuing seven Laudato Si’ Goals towards more sustainability. The Earthcare Parishes Program offers ideas and guidance. Find out more and register for an Earthcare Audit at catholicearthcare.org.au/earthcare-parishes
ACU database offers easily accessible Church teaching on ethics questions
Explore www.ethicsfinder.com. Wish you could easily find Church teaching and the best articles, books and videos on bioethics, business ethics, cancel culture, human rights, marriage, family, subsidiarity, and 100+ other topics? Try ACU’s free, digital tool www.ethicsfinder.com.
Vinnies Support Centres are still available to those in need
St Vincent de Paul Support Centres across Greater Sydney are still available and taking calls to arrange for food vouchers or other items to be provided to those in need. If you need assistance, call the Support Centres in Blacktown on (02) 8861 9777, Harris Park on (02) 8861 9757 and Penrith on (02) 8861 9770. To find out more about what support is available, visit http://vinnies.org.au/covidsupportnsw
Madonna magazine – a gift of spiritual sustenance that lasts a whole year
Madonna magazine, published by Jesuit Communications, is an ideal spiritual companion – containing daily prayers, deep reflections and faith-focused articles. We invite you to subscribe or consider taking out a gift subscription for a loved one for only $53 a year. You can find out more about Madonna, how to subscribe, purchase a gift subscription or donate a subscription on the website: www.madonnamagazine.com.au/article/subscriptions
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Marriage Enrichment Weekend: 22 – 24 April
The Worldwide Marriage Encounter team are hosting a Marriage Enrichment Weekend from 22 – 24 April at the Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW. Learn to become the best version of yourselves together and live your best life in love. Book online at www.wwme.org.au or contact Christine and Terry Mahony on 0490 774 419 or nswbookings@wwme.org.au
Divine Retreat Centre Divine Mercy Growth Retreat: 22 – 24 April
The Divine Retreat Centre in Somersby, NSW is hosting an Inner Healing Retreat from 6pm Friday 22 April to 4pm Sunday 24 April. All retreats are held with NSW COVID-Safe compliance. For more information and bookings, please contact 0468 486 782 or email drcretreatrego@gmail.com to confirm attendance. Visit https://divineretreatcentre.org for more information.
Divine Retreat Centre Divine Mercy Feast Day Retreat: 24 April
The Divine Retreat Centre in Somersby, NSW is hosting a one-day pilgrimage from 9am to 4pm on Sunday 24 April, Divine Mercy Sunday, and will feature praise and worship, Eucharistic Adoration and Holy Mass and ministry for children and teenagers. All retreats are held with NSW COVID-Safe compliance and masks are mandatory. Bookings are required and limited numbers are available. Please call (02) 4372 1598 or email drcretreatrego@gmail.com to confirm attendance. Visit https://divineretreatcentre.org for more information.
Catholic Engaged Encounter Weekend: 30 April – 1 May
How prepared are you for marriage? Engaged Encounter provides you with deeper insights into each other and into married life. We give you a chance to spend time together to strengthen and enrich your relationship. The next Engaged Encounter Weekend will be held on 30 April to 1 May. If COVID restrictions prevent a face-to-face weekend, it will be held via Zoom. For further information and to register, visit www.engagedencounter.org.au
Catalyst for Renewal Forum with Sr Joan Chittister OSB: 31 May
Catalyst for Renewal is hosting a forum on Tuesday 31 May from 7pm to 9pm at Monte Sant’Angelo Mercy College, McQuoin Hall, 128 Miller Street, North Sydney. Sr Joan Chittister osb will be speaking on the topic ‘The Time is Now: a Call to Uncommon Courage.” Tickets are $30 each through Trybooking at https://www.trybooking.com/BYTTG or calling (02) 4971 4090.
For more events, please go to: parracatholic.org/events
Please note, some of these notices have been provided to the Diocese of Parramatta, with the request they be made available to parishes and parishioners. The Diocese of Parramatta makes these notices available for information purposes only and does not expressly endorse any of this material, unless otherwise specified. The Diocese of Parramatta cannot be held responsible for any inaccurate or defamatory content.
