News and Events across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond
Deanery and Diocesan Pastoral Councils
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv launched our new councils on Saturday 2 December at St Andrew’s Parish, Marayong. He called on our councils to be listening bodies, particularly to those who are “outside the tent”. Council members are to be connected to the grassroots, to help him listen and respond to the real needs and concerns of the people. More information, including council membership, can be found on www.faithinourfuture.org.au
Positions Vacant
- Accounts Officer – Chancery Office, Parramatta
- Professional Officer – Chancery Office, Parramatta
- Archives and Records Manager – Chancery Office, Parramatta
More details at: www.parracatholic.org/employment
World Youth Day 2019 – Group Leaders
In January 2019 an anticipated 200 pilgrims from the Diocese of Parramatta will be on their journey to WYD in Panama via Mexico to be with Pope Francis and the youth of the world. Here’s your chance to contribute and enjoy the formation, training and friendship that comes with being a WYD Group Leader! Read about the responsibilities and apply today for a life changing experience shared with young people at www.parrawyd.org or contact James Camden, Director of Catholic Youth Parramatta -jcamden@parra.catholic.org.au
Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse
After five years of work, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has submitted its final report to government and will now come to an end. The Diocese of Parramatta will continue working with police and other relevant authorities to ensure the Catholic Church remains as safe as possible for children and other vulnerable people.
In its submissions, the Royal Commission has released its reports on Case Study 44 relating to the Diocese of Parramatta (this report has not yet been made public) and Case Study 50 relating to Catholic Church in Australia. The Diocese of Parramatta now begins the process of reviewing this material.
The Diocese of Parramatta once again offers its unreserved and deepest apologies to those many people who have suffered because of the child sexual abuse that has occurred in the context of Church ministry. In particular, the Diocese of Parramatta apologises to survivors of abuse and their families for the hurt and suffering this abuse has caused throughout their lives.
The Diocese of Parramatta is committed to continuously reviewing and improving its child protection policies and procedures. For more information please visit www.safeguarding.org.au. For more information please refer to the Royal Commission website: www.childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au. For anyone needing information and support please contact the Diocese of Parramatta information line on (02) 8838 3419. Concerns or allegations about any criminal offence should be reported to NSW Police on 131 444.
Vale Fr Brian Rooney
The Funeral Mass for Fr Brian Rooney, much-admired priest of the Diocese of Parramatta, was celebrated at St Michael’s Church, Chapel Lane, Baulkham Hills, on Tuesday 2 January 2018. Fr Brian died in retirement in on 19 December 2017, aged 87. Read more at: https://catholicoutlook.org/dedicated-priest-family-man-requiem-mass-fr-brian-rooney/
Holy Hour for Vocations: 1 February
The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth cordially invite young adults (aged 18-35) to join them for Holy Hour for Vocations. Thursday, 1st February 2018, at 7:00 pm. Join us also for pizza at 8:00pm. Holy Spirit Convent, 120 Capuchin Way, Plumpton. RSVP: Sr Paula email: vocationscsfn@gmail.com or mobile 0449 656 406.
Nigerian Mass in Igbo: 11 February
Rev Fr Chukwunonyerem Akamadu, Chaplain to the Nigerian Catholic community, will celebrate Mass at 11.30am at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, 198 Old Prospect Road, Greystanes. Contact Fr Akamadu tel 0451 174 438, Stella Nwosu 0405 478 472.
Grief to Grace: 8 – 13 April
Healing the Wounds of Abuse – is a spiritual retreat for anyone who has suffered degradation or violation through physical, emotional, sexual or spiritual abuse. The retreat will be held April 8th – 13th 2018. To request an application contact Anne by emailing info@grieftograceaus.org.au or phone 0407704539. For more information visit www.grieftograce.org
Women in Leadership: 13 – 15 April
For women of any age and experience in formal leadership positions and for those who exercise leadership without a formal title in business, schools, homes, offices, parishes etc. The inspirational Sr Hilda Scott OSB (presenter at ACYF) and Dr Leoni Degenhardt will be the presenters. April 13-15 2018 at Benedictine Abbey, 695 Mountain Road, Jamberoo. Info: 02 4236 0533 or cottageretreats@jamberooabbey.org.au
For more events please go to: http://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.
