Nestled in the heart of Kellyville, Our Lady of the Rosary Parish became a beacon of faith and community. The parish, with its deep historical roots, continued to thrive, enriched by its connection to the nearby Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents, an official pilgrimage site for the Jubilee Year.
Tradition and community
The parish was known for its inclusiveness and warmth. Fr Christopher Shorrock OFM Conv, who has been the parish priest since 2023, saw the balance between long-time parishioners and new families contributing to its vibrancy.
“When I returned to Kellyville as parish priest, I was amazed by the changes,” he said.
“So much of the land that was once market gardens has been transformed into urban development.
“But what hasn’t changed is the strong sense of community, with a mix of long-time parishioners and new families contributing to the vibrancy of the parish.”
Having ministered in Kellyville in the 1990s, Fr Christopher noted the changes and is focused on serving the growing and diverse community.
“My priority has been to listen to the people and see how we can continue to serve them in this new chapter,” he explained.
“The parish is so diverse, and it’s been important to ensure that we continue to embrace that diversity while staying grounded in our Catholic faith.”
Paul Cashman, a Parish Council member, highlighted the parish’s strong Franciscan charism.
“My wife Jeanne and I are readers. Jeanne is about to become a Special Minister bringing Communion to the sick and dying. I’m on the Finance Council, assist with money counting, and am an RCIA sponsor,” he said.
Paul invited others to experience the parish’s beauty.
“Come visit our beautiful parish church, renovated and rededicated two years ago, and the nearby Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents – one of three Jubilee year 2025 shrines in Parramatta Diocese,” he said.
The Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents, Kellyville is one of three pilgrimage sites established within the Diocese of Parramatta. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
The Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents: A ‘Pilgrimage of Hope’
Adjacent to the parish stands the Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents, a place of reflection and prayer, especially during the Jubilee Year. Designated as an official pilgrimage site by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv in 2024, the Shrine remains a focal point for both the Franciscans and the local community.
“It’s a beautiful place for reflection and prayer,” Fr Christopher said.
“The Shrine and its garden offer visitors the chance to pray for the protection of life and for reparation for the tragedy of abortion in our world.”
This Jubilee Year, pilgrims are invited to partake in Mass, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and other devotions; deepening their faith and reflecting on God’s grace and mercy.
“The Shrine is a source of hope for everyone who visits,” Fr Christopher said.
“It’s a place where people can experience God’s love and mercy in a very tangible way.”
Many pilgrims also walk among the Stations of the Cross: almost life-sized statues that have been erected in recent years – offering a powerful reminder of Christ’s sacrifice.
“The Stations of the Cross are a Franciscan devotion, and it’s something that really connects us to the suffering of Christ and the beauty of His sacrifice,” Fr Christopher said.
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish is home to many sacred relics. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
The Franciscan influence
Fr Christopher’s ministry at the parish is deeply influenced by the Franciscan way of life, which focuses on simplicity, prayer and service. After more than 40 years as a member of the Conventual Franciscans, he has brought a unique perspective to his role as parish priest.
“Being a Franciscan allows us to serve the people where they need us,” he explained.
“There’s no set ministry – it’s about responding to the needs of the community.”
This spirit of service is a strong part of parish life. From devotions to St Anthony of Padua to the Blessing of the Animals on the Feast of St Francis, these moments help parishioners connect with the simplicity, care for creation, and deep devotion to God – hallmarks of the Franciscan charism.
Journeying through Lent
With the approach of Lent and Easter, Fr Christopher and the parish community are making special preparations.
“Lent is a time for penitence, reflection, and preparation for the joy of Easter,” he said.
The parish offers several opportunities for devotion and reconciliation, including the Stations of the Cross and special reconciliation services.
“We have a number of parish choirs that enhance the liturgical celebrations, and there’s a strong sense of community,” he said.
“Whether you’re here for Mass, devotions, or just to be part of the community, you’ll find a welcoming and prayerful atmosphere.”
Pilgrims at the Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents, Kellyville. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
Walking together in faith
Fr Christopher is committed to adapting to the needs of the parish and community by walking together.
“Listening to the people is essential,” he said.
“Our parish has changed, and we need to be open to that change. But what remains constant is our commitment to serving God and each other.”
The parish continues to serve those on the margins through outreach programs, such as the annual collection for David’s Place – a center for the homeless.
Its vision is clear: to be a place where all are welcomed, where the faith is lived out in action, and where the community carries forward the Franciscan tradition of service, prayer, and simplicity as they walk together in faith.
This article was originally published in the 2025 Lent & Easter | Autumn edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read the digital version here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
