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
- Professional Officer – Chancery Office, Parramatta
- Archives and Records Manager – Chancery Office, Parramatta
More details at: www.parracatholic.org/employment
World Youth Day 2019 Information Evenings
Every three years WYD provides an opportunity for young people (aged 16-35) to be immersed in the beauty, intensity and adventure of our Catholic faith as we unite with the youth of the world in the presence of Pope Francis. Bishop Vincent and Catholic Youth Parramatta invite young people of our Diocese on a journey to the host city of Panama in Central America during January 2019. Unique to our Diocese, we will be immersed in a sharing of faith, culture and local experiences in the shadow of ancient pyramids, Basilica’s and the Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe as we pass first through Mexico. Visit www.parrawyd.org and join us for one of three upcoming information evenings to learn more. All are from 7-8:30pm.
Monday 12 February – St Andrew’s Parish, Marayong
Thursday 15 February – St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta
Tuesday 20 February – Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, St Mary’s
CatholicCare has moved to 13 Buller Street North Parramatta
CatholicCare Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains has relocated from 2A Villiers Street, North Parramatta to 13 Buller Street North Parramatta. CatholicCare will continue to offer the following services: – Personal and Family Counselling – Relationship Counselling – Post Separation Support and Counselling – Grief and Loss Counselling for adults and children – Financial Counselling – Problem Gambling Counselling – CHOICES NDIS approved counselling.
Appointments can be made by calling 02 8843 2530. Free parking available. For more information contact: Karolyn Ellis, Manager Family and Relationship Counselling Services, Karolyn.ellis@ccss.org.au or 0447 441 862.
St John of God Institute of Counselling – 50th and FINAL year!
Come and join us in our farewell year. We are offering a shortened course (6 months) followed by a celebration party in July. We will cover some of the most popular subjects: Skills in communicating and effectiveness with teenagers, family members, workplace colleagues, conflict situations and relationships. Better skills for coping with forgiveness, resentment and change, co-dependency, bereavement/grief, depression, anxiety, assertiveness and mental and emotional health. Cost: $200. Venue: Holy Cross College Ryde each Tuesday evening at 7.30pm commencing 6 February. Enquiries: Carol Harding – 0408 705 848 or Jannelle Carlile – 0431 598 004 or counselling1969@gmail.com
ACU Short Courses in Theology starting in February
ACU will be running the following 4 week short course in theology at their Strathfield Campus: From childhood to youth, 21 February, 28 February, 7 March and 14 March 2018. You’re invited to explore: What does it mean to be a child or youth? How does the church understand children and youth? Why are children baptised and initiated? How can the church engage young people? For more information about this short course, please view the attached flyer, or visit: www.acu.edu.au/theology/shortcourses
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.
Lenten Retreat Afternoon for Families: 25 February
Open to families of all ages and constellations. From 2-4:30pm at Mt Schoenstatt. Event details: https://goo.gl/NrggXH. This is a free event but registration is essential: www.trybooking.com/trfl
24 hours for the Lord: 9-10 March
From Friday 6pm until Saturday 6pm at Mt Schoenstatt, Mulgoa. Commences with Holy Mass at 6pm and concludes with Holy Mass on Saturday at 5pm. For event details: https://goo.gl/vGicaH
Lenten Retreat for Young Adults: 10-11 March
Held at Mt Schoenstatt, Mulgoa. For event details: https://goo.gl/YWfwkW
Contact: Sr M Julie juliebrcar@gmail.com
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
Healing After Abortion Retreat: 13-15 April
Rachel’s Vineyard Ministries, Sydney offers regular healing retreats for those who have experienced an abortion. The retreat offers a sanctuary in which to renew, rebuild and redeem hearts broken by abortion in a safe, supportive, confidential and non-judgmental environment. Information and a brochure can found at: www.rachelsvineyard.org.au or call us on our confidential voicemail number 0400 092 555 or email info@rachelsvineyard.org.au.
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend: 27-29 April
A marriage enrichment experience for married couples – set in peaceful, picturesque surroundings, away from the distractions of everyday life. During the weekend, couples have a unique opportunity to reconnect, rekindle and refresh their relationship. Take time out of your busy schedule, to invest in your most precious asset . . . your Marriage! Date: 27–29 April at Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW. Bookings online at www.wwme.org.au or Adrian and Janet Sullivan: on 0490 774 419 oradrian.janet1@bigpond.com
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.
