On 16 August, parishioners from across the Diocese of Parramatta joined the Jubilee of Hope Diocesan Retreat at the Franciscan Shrine of the Holy Innocents in Kellyville, one of three official pilgrimage sites in the Diocese. Each Diocesan retreat is an opportunity to be a pilgrim of hope at one of the Diocese’s official pilgrimage sites.
The shrine provided shelter from the rain and a peaceful refuge for prayer, worship and personal reflection on the Jubilee message of hope.
Despite the wet weather, the day was filled with prayer, contemplation, and fellowship.
Participants walked the shrine’s gardens, pausing at nearly life-sized Stations of the Cross for moments of reflection. Worship, Scripture readings, and talks by Alison Ryan and Donnie Velasco, facilitators with the Mission Enhancement Team, on hope in the Jubilee Year further enriched the experience.
Mission Enhancement Team Facilitators Alison Ryan and Donnie Velasco lead the second Diocesan Jubilee of Hope retreat at the Franciscan Shrine of Holy Innocents in Kellyville in August. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
An indoor lunch offered time for connection and sharing among attendees.
The pilgrimage sparked joy and gratitude among those who attended, and that joy spread across social media.
“Amazing day, I am so grateful that I got to help out,” wrote Ellena.
Michael also shared, “What a wonderful day ❤️ even though it was raining, I’m glad to be part of this wonderful day .”
The retreat continues the Diocese’s mission of creating sacred spaces for parishioners to reflect, discern, and walk together as pilgrims of hope.
Participants are seen during the second Diocesan Jubilee of Hope retreat at the Franciscan Shrine of Holy Innocents in Kellyville in August. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
Join us for the third and final diocesan retreat on Saturday 15 November at Mount Schoenstatt Spirituality Centre, Mulgoa. Tickets are $40 per person, or a donation if needed – everyone is welcome to be part of this special day of reflection, prayer, and community.
Find out more and register: parracatholic.org/events/diocesan-retreat-15-november
The Diocesan retreats are aligned with the Formation and Prayer priorities of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan. To learn more, visit parracatholic.org/synodality
This article was originally published in the 2025 Season of Creation | Spring edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read the digital version here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
