News and Events across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond
Diocese of Parramatta Notices
Easter | Autumn 2024 Catholic Outlook Magazine out now!
The Easter | Autumn 2024 edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine is out now! This edition invites us to practise silence, deepen our interior lives and pray for a Gospel change of heart, how our communities celebrate Easter, seminarians preparing to ‘go out into the deep’ plus so much more. Pick up your free copy from parishes and offices across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains today or read it online via catholicoutlook.org/magazine
Synod 2023 Update: Decree issued and Development of Diocesan Plan Begins
In January, the Synodal Decree from our inaugural Diocesan Synod was issued, enabling us to move forward in the development of a Diocesan Plan. Join us in the next phase of our journey, as we discern a new path forward for our local Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. The Diocesan Plan for a Synodal Church will launch at the Diocesan Gathering on Saturday 10 August. Learn more at parracatholic.org/synod
NEW Diocesan website launched
The new parracatholic.org website is now here with exciting new features and functionality including a comprehensive ‘Find a Mass’ function which includes Daily and Weekend Masses, Reconciliation and Adoration times; a centralised event calendar; Daily Mass readings and different ways you can contribute to the Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Check it out today!
Free Online Formation on Synodal Spirituality
Dive into ‘Synodal Spirituality’ with this FREE online short formation course, taught by Sr Patty Andrew OSU. Part of the FaithLIFE series hosted by the Mission Enhancement Team, the course offers an exploration of communal discernment, active engagement, and creative faith responses to challenges in the mission of the Church today. Enrol now and take part in Pope Francis’s vision for a synodal Church: https://pfparra.thinkific.com/courses/synodal-spirituality/
Safeguarding Face-to-face Training Opportunities
The next session of face-to-face Mandatory Safeguarding Training will be held on Saturday 27 April at Our Lady of the Way Parish, Emu Plains, for Modules 4 and 5. More training opportunities will be available throughout May. Please register directly for this training or for other convenient dates and locations by clicking on the training event at: https://parracatholic.org/connect/events/?series=safeguarding-training. For more information, please email: safeguardingtraining@parracatholic.org
Bishop’s Good Shepherd Appeal for our Holy Spirit Seminarians
Will you support our seminarians to “go out into the deep” and serve?
Your compassionate generosity and prayers will help our future priests cast their nets wide to nurture faith and meet the spiritual and pastoral needs of our community. Please give generously to the Bishop’s Good Shepherd Appeal at yourcatholicfoundation.org.au/appeal or scan this QR code. Thank you.
MET FaithLIFE Theology Short Course: from 16 April
Considering learning about theology? Wanting to expand your language for expressing your faith? Seeking ways to deepen the way you put your faith into practice? Sign up now for the 3-session FaithLIFE Theology short course with Dr John Collins on Tuesdays 16 + 23 + 30 April! Registration and more dates and details via QR or get in touch with the team via met@parracatholic.org
Youth Mass ‘Round the Diocese: 21 April
Looking for some young adults to worship with? Hunting for an excuse to catch up with Jesus and friends? Wondering what goes on around our Diocese? Mass ‘Round the Diocese is just that! Our young people are visiting different churches around the Diocese for Mass and fellowship afterwards with new and known friends. The next Mass will be at The Good Shepherd Parish, Plumpton, on Sunday 21 April for 6pm Mass. For more information, please contact Sr Christine Ramada CSFN on csfn.cristina@gmail.com
Natural Fertility Billings Ovulation Method Instruction Session: 23 April
The next session in our Natural Family Planning series is our first for the Billings Ovulation Method®. Meet Margaret Coakley, accredited Billings teacher, and you’ll be set up to chart immediately to help you reach your family planning goals. The session will be held on Tuesday 23 April from 7.15pm to 8.15pm via Zoom. To book your place or for further information, please contact Catherine on catherine.bourne@parracatholic.org or call 0400 427 605.
Exploring Music for the Solemnities following Easter: 30 April and 2 May
All are invited to the next music workshop organised by the Office for Worship and presented by Eric Grella. This workshop is perfect for all parish musicians and also for anyone who wishes to learn more about music for the Solemnities after Easter. As there has been a large interest in these workshops there will be 2 locations!!
- 30 April at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre, Blacktown from 7pm
- 2 May at St Nicholas of Myra Parish, Penrith from 7pm
RSVP by 28 April to lucy.woodbury@parracatholic.org or 0460 037 795.
Natural Fertility Sympto-Thermal Method Instruction Session: 30 April
The most important symptom alerting women to ovulation is used in all methods of Natural Family Planning. The Sympto-Thermal Method includes measuring your basal body temperature, which also confirms ovulation! This session will be held on Tuesday 30 April from 7.15pm to 8.15pm via Zoom. To book your place or for further information, please contact Catherine on catherine.bourne@parracatholic.org or call 0400 427 605.
CCD Formation Opportunities: May and June 2024
SRE catechists and all members of our faith communities are invited to participate in a series of formation opportunities organised by the Diocesan Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD). Delve into St John’s Gospel with a scripture expert, Dr Laurie Woods, over 5 weeks on 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May. Continue your Journey of Faith for 5 weeks with Merilyn Hancock (Head, CCD) on 7, 14, 21, 28 June and 5 July. All sessions will be held at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre, Blacktown, from 9.30am to 1.30pm. For SRE Catechists to be accredited with Level 3 training, they must attend both sessions. Morning Tea will be provided. Enrol for one or both sessions via parracatholic.org/events or email ccd.training@parracatholic.org
Diocesan Pentecost Scripture Reflection Evening: 15 May
What does the Holy Spirit look like in your life? How can Scripture stretch our imagination when comes to Pentecost and the Holy Spirit? Register for the Diocesan Pentecost Scripture Reflection Evening with Dr Michele Connolly rsj on Wednesday 15 May 2024 – 6:30PM to 8:30pm. RSVP via QR or get in touch with the team via met@parracatholic.org
Diocesan Food Drives
Many vulnerable people in our community rely on the ‘food banks’ run by Jesuit Refugee Services and the House of Welcome, which operate thanks to donations from community food drives. All parishes and schools are encouraged to run a food drive for those seeking safety in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Find out more information about how you can help at https://parracatholic.org/contribute/volunteer/#food-drive or emailing james.atanasious@parracatholic.org
Marriage Preparation Courses in 2024
Getting married in 2024? Let the Diocese of Parramatta help you prepare. Visit www.parracatholic.org/celebrate/marriage/marriage-preparation to view weekend course dates in the New Year, to book and pay. An online preparation called SmartLoving can also be booked via the website. For more information, email marriage@parracatholic.org or Marisa on 0412 280 017.
Get your feed on the Soul Food Podcast
Do you find life & faith inspiration by listening to the experiences of others?
The Mission Enhancement Team’s Soul Food Podcast features life & faith stories of people from our diocesan family. Listen now for FREE via our website or on Spotify: www.parracatholic.org/resources/soul-food
Diocese of Parramatta Tribunal available for in-person, telephone and Zoom appointments
The Tribunal of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Parramatta is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm for enquiries regarding marriage annulments. Interviews are being conducted in person with Zoom and telephone appointments available in certain circumstances. Please contact the Tribunal office on (02) 8838 3480 or email tribunal@parracatholic.org.
Adult Faith Formation opportunities in 2024
- Preparing for marriage or know couples who are?
- Looking to learn more about the Bible, spirituality, theology or practical skills for ministry?
- Searching for encouragement and growth by listening to life & faith stories from adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s?
View and share a copy of the 2024 adult faith formation calendar (link: https://shorturl.at/grLV3) OR get in touch with the team to learn about more formation opportunities via met@parracatholic.org
Catholic Care Mamre Supported Playgroup
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains are offering a free supported playgroup which operates on Thursdays from 10am to 12pm during school terms at Mamre House, 181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills. If you are interested in enrolling, please contact Mamre Supported Playgroup on (02) 8843 2506.
Free English and Citizenship Classes
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains are offering English and Citizenship classes at Mamre House, 181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills, on a Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 2pm during school terms. Free childcare is available. If you are interested in enrolling, please contact Mamre Crèche on (02) 8843 2506 or Nepean Community College (02) 4724 9000.
Mount Schoenstatt Shrine Time Holy Hour for Youth and Young Adults
The Mount Schoenstatt community invite young and young adults for Holy Hour every fourth Sunday of the month from 7pm to 8pm at the Mt Schoenstatt Shrine, 230 Fairlight Road, Mulgoa, followed by a social gathering afterwards. There will be opportunities for praise and worship, prayer, reflection, confession and benediction. For more information, please contact Sr M Rita on 0493 026 628 or srrita@schoenstatt.org.au
Glenbrook Parish Roof Restoration Fundraising Concert: 14 April
St Finbar’s Parish, Glenbrook, invite you to a fundraising concert with the Sydney Male Choir on Sunday 14 April at 2pm in the parish church. Come and enjoy the music and at the same time, support the restoration of the Church roof, with at least $5 going to St Finbar’s Roof Restoration Fund for every ticket sold. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at www.sydneymalechoir.com or at the door.
Schoenstatt Men Reflection Day: 20 April
Men of all ages are invited to a reflection day hosted by the Schoenstatt Men at the Mt Schoenstatt Retreat Centre, Mulgoa, on Saturday 20 April from 9am to 4pm. The day includes Mass and Reconciliation and a talk from Fr Pawel OP from St Joseph’s Parish, Kingswood. Registration is $25 with BYO lunch. For more information or to register, scan the QR code or contact Jim on 0432 487 927 or email mensbranch@schoenstatt.org.au
Voluntary Assisted Dying healthcare workshop: 4 May
The Diocese of Parramatta is organising a free healthcare workshop to explore the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference’s Voluntary Assisted Dying statement: “To Witness and to Accompany with Christian Hope” on Saturday 4 May at the St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall, Parramatta, from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Lunch will be provided. To register, please contact met@parracatholic.org. For enquires, please contact Deacon Michael Tan on michael.tan@parracatholic.org
Christ the King Primary Jubilee Celebrations
Staff, students, families and parishioners past and present are invited to celebrate the golden jubilee of Christ the King Primary School, North Rocks.
- A Jubilee Family Picnic will be held on Sunday 19 May at Don Moore Reserve, North Rocks, from 11.30am. You can RSVP here: https://forms.gle/k6hua7LiwZKBMP3o6
- A Jubilee Dinner (over 18s) will be held on 29 June at The Epping Club, Epping, from 6pm. Cost is $99 per person and includes food and beverages. Tables are of 10-12 attendees. You can RSVP here: https://forms.gle/hmeBwoEM9qusMhG87
For any further information, please contact Erin Wynne, at ewynne@parra.catholic.edu.auor the school office on (02) 8846 2700 or email northrocks@parra.catholic.edu.au
Grace & Silence Retreat for Young Women: 5 May
The Mount Schoenstatt Girls and Young Women ministry invite single women aged 20 to 40 discerning a vocation to marriage and family, single life or consecrated life to a silent retreat day on Sunday 5 May 9.30am to 4.30pm at Bethany, 301 Fairlight Road, Mulgoa. Remaining session is on 2 June. Cost is $25 per day or $90 for the full series. For catering purposes, registrations close a week prior to each event. For details, contact Hannah on 0433 443 384.
Central Europe Pilgrimage with Fr Joseph Lam OSA: May 2025
Cosmos Tour Operators are organising a Central Europe tour for 17 days from 8 to 24 May 2025, travelling through Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria and Czechia, accompanied by Fr Joseph Lam OSA from St Finbar’s Parish, Glenbrook. Prices start from $5,076 per person, excluding flights. For more information, or to register your interest, please contact the parish office on secretary@stfinbars.org.au.
Other Notices
Jesus Light of the World Communities Day Retreat with Mother Mary: 13 April
The Jesus Light of the World Communities invites you to their “Walk by faith, not by sight” day retreat with Mother Mary on Saturday 13 April at St Joseph’s Parish Hall, Rockdale from 9am to 5.30pm (including Mass). FREE Morning Tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea. Bookings are essential for catering purposes. For more information, please contact Helen on 0433 455 114, Ida on 0426 953 697 or email jlowcommunity@gmail.com
Missionaries of God’s Love Emmaus Silent Retreat: 19 – 21 April
Men and women are invited to embark on the sacred journey of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, where the victorious love of God is revealed through the abiding presence of Jesus. Be renewed in spending time alone with the Lord, and watch as He slowly sets your heart ablaze. This retreat will be held from 19 to 21 April at the Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, and is run by the MGL Sisters. To book your place, visit trybooking.com/CNSXK
Catholic Engaged Encounter Weekend: 24 – 25 February
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 18-19 May, with future dates in August and November 2024. For further information and to register, visit www.engagedencounter.org.au/
Christian Meditation Introduction and Renewal Day: 19 May
You are invited to a Christian Meditation Introduction and Renewal Day on Sunday 19 May from 10am to around 3pm at St Benedict’s Monastery, 121 Arcadia Rd, Arcadia. There will be an introduction to Christian Meditation for newcomers with periods of meditation for ongoing meditators, presentations and prayer with the monks. Mass will be celebrated in the afternoon. Morning tea will be provided, but please bring your own picnic lunch. Donations are welcome. For enquiries, please contact Ann Lomas on atlomas@bigpond.com or call 0437 340 250.
Divine Retreat Centre offerings in 2024
The Divine Retreat Centre in Somersby, NSW is hosting a variety of single-day and weekend residential retreats throughout 2024. For more information and bookings, please contact (02) 4372 1598 or email drcretreatrego@gmail.com to confirm attendance. Visit www.divineretreatcentre.org for more information.
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.
