Message from the Parish

24th/25th May 2025 ~ 6th Sunday of Easter

"One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic" in Action!

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Last weekend, the Parish Pastoral Council offered a report at our Sunday liturgies on how we are moving forward with our Vision and Mission in communion with the Archdiocese and the wider Catholic Church. We are “one, holy, catholic and apostolic.” As we noted, these four markers of Catholic life have shaped the work of the Parish Pastoral Council, our parish life over the past years and its future direction.

We are ONE: We seek unity and communion with all in our parish, irrespective of culture, religious history and gender. This unity is best expressed liturgically at our Sunday Eucharist around the Table of the Word and the Table of the Eucharist. Hospitality and inclusivity are fundamental expressions in our parish. We are also ONE with Creation as we seek to become more ecologically responsible (with our gardens, solar panels and water tanks). So many of our parishioners are involved in these aspects of our parish life.

We are HOLY: We have explored several ways in which we deepen our relationship to God through our discipleship of Jesus. This happens in the various prayer experiences available, the many liturgical celebrations that we enjoy, and other opportunities available to deepen our spiritual lives. The liturgy team assists us in this.

We are CATHOLIC: This is expressed as we become aware of the richness of our Catholic heritage and our communion with all throughout the world. The representative of this expression is with Archbishop Pat and through him to all bishops, especially the new Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV. There are several moments when we are invited to deepen our understanding as adults of our Catholic Faith: teaching opportunities and the parish website offers so many rich resources. October will be key as we focus on Jesus.

We are APOSTOLIC: So many of our parishioners are involved in outreach and apostolic service to our community. Members of the St Vincent de Paul society live this out. Vicky Stokes reminded us last Sunday, there are plans afoot for a robust program of parish outreach and visitation.

Our parish future looks hope-filled, welcoming and it is growing – thanks to the support of so many parishioners and our pastoral councillors.

Your brother,

Michael