Catholic Outlook July 2016

CatholicOutlook 

The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta | www.catholicoutlook.org 

VOLUME 19, JULY 2016 | PHOTO: Giovanni Portelli 

A Bishop for all people 

Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv installed as fourth Bishop of Parramatta 

ALISON RYAN: 

SEEKING TO 

ENGAGE YOUNG 

PEOPLE IN 

PARISH LIFE AT 

BLACKTOWN 

page 6 page 19 

ILONA & VICTOR 

TASTE THE 

SWEETNESS OF 

THE WINE OF LOVE, 

STORED DEEP IN 

THEIR HEARTS

Homily of Most Rev Vincent Long 

Van Nguyen OFM Conv for the 

Liturgical Reception and Solemn 

Mass of Installation as the fourth 

Bishop of Parramatta. 

THE BISHOP'S HOMILY 

Most Rev Vincent Long OFM Conv 

CONTENTS 

THE BISHOP’S HOMILY 

DIOCESAN NEWS 

CATHOLIC YOUTH 

PARISH PROFILE 

CATHOLIC EDUCATION 

2-3 

4, 7, 10-13, 

22-23 

5-6 

8-9 

14-16 

Dear friends, 

The clergy and Catholic people 

of Parramatta have been waiting 

for a long time and here I am, only five feet 

and a half though. After 19 months without 

a bishop, you have been given one in the 

person of a Vietnamese Australian and a 

former boat person. Perhaps, you can add my 

appointment to the list of surprises that Pope 

Francis has done. 

I am very honoured and humbled by this 

appointment and grateful for the opportunity 

to serve the Church in Parramatta during this 

time. As guided by my motto “go further into 

the deep” (Lk 5:4), I have taken many leaps of 

faith before, including the one that launched 

me, literally, on to the Pacific Ocean. 

Now, I am about to be cast into the deep 

interior of Western Sydney, all the way to 

the beautiful Blue Mountains and the fertile 

plains of the Hawkesbury River. I cannot 

help but feel daunted by what lies ahead. 

Nevertheless, I make bold to move forward, 

trusting in the sustaining power of God 

and the support of many people and fellow 

ministers of the Gospel. 

There is an African adage that says, “you sit 

on the old mat to weave the new one”. Already 

one finds here a richly textured tapestry of a 

young, vibrant and diverse Diocese. So I will 

sit on an old mat that others have woven, 

perhaps with a bit more comfort than I would 

on this generous cathedra. 

I am indebted to my predecessors and 

others who, like the wise master builders Paul 

talks about in the second reading, have laid 

a solid foundation (1 Cor 10). I honour this 

legacy and want to build on it. 

Although I can only walk in my own shoes, 

I would like to be like the steward who brings 

out of his storeroom treasures both old and 

new (Matt 13:52). It is together as bishop, 

clergy and people that we will listen to what 

the Spirit is saying to us in our context (Rev 

2:28) and discern how to live and witness as 

disciples of Christ. 

To say that we are at a critical juncture is 

probably an understatement. What we are 

witnessing as the people of faith is the flood of 

secularisation that has washed away much of 

the Church we’ve known and loved. We have 

been battered and bruised. 

Hundreds of clergy, which included Archbishops and Bishops from across the country, celebrated 

the Mass of Installation of Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv. 

PHOTO: GIOVANNI PORTELLI 

We’ve been reduced in numbers and status. 

What is more, we have to admit with the 

greatest humility that we have not lived up to 

that fundamental ethos of justice, mercy and 

care for those who have been hurt by our own 

actions and inactions. 

And so in the eyes of many, whatever aura 

of respectability we’ve got left has evaporated 

with the sexual abuse crisis. The Royal 

Commission has been a lightning rod, an 

uncomfortable spotlight, but hopefully a 

catalyst for transformation. 

I’d like to think of this critical juncture as 

analogous to the biblical exile to which as a 

former refugee I have a personal affinity. The 

exile was about facing the death of the old and 

giving birth to the new. The biggest lesson they 

learned was seeking God’s justice for the poor 

and the lowly. They learned to be a society in 

which the care of the most marginalised was 

Left: Youth participants from Catholic schools 

in the Diocese of Parramatta came together to 

form the Captivate Choir. Above: Bishop Vincent 

embraces his mother during the Offertory. 

 

PHOTOS: ALPHONSUS FOK 

to be the essential distinguishing feature. 

As your new bishop, I’d like to think of my 

role as that of the prophets who accompany 

their people in the exile, point to them the 

signs of the new Kairos and lead them in the 

direction of the kingdom. 

I am committed to the renewal of the 

Church patterned on the paschal rhythm of 

Christ: the Church that dies to worldly power, 

privilege, clericalism and rises to humility, 

simplicity, equality and servanthood; the 

Church that might be smaller, poorer and 

humbler but, hopefully, more of a light and a 

sacrament of God’s love to the world. 

The Scriptures we have heard tonight speak 

of a radical vision of love, inclusion and 

human flourishing. That vision is enshrined 

in the prophecy of Isaiah. God’s people, he 

proclaims, include foreigners who join 

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE 

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NEWS & EVENTS 

CatholicOutlook 

The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta 

Publisher: 

Most Rev Vincent Long OFM Conv 

Bishop of Parramatta 

Tel (02) 8838 3400 

Fax (02) 9630 4813 

PO Box 3066, 

North Parramatta, NSW, 1750 

Email: bishop@parra.catholic.org.au 

Website: www.parracatholic.org 

Editor: 

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Tel (02) 8838 3409 

editor@parra.catholic.org.au 

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Journalists: 

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Designers: 

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School news: 

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Deadlines: 

Editorial and advertising 

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17 

18 

19 

20-21 

BISHOP'S DIARY 

1 JULY: Mass with St Pauls Catholic College on the occasion 

of Foundation Day, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta 

3 JULY: Mass for 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time with 

Commissioning of World Youth Day Pilgrims, 6pm at St 

Patrick’s Cathedral 

15 JULY: Vespers of the Memorial of St Bonaventure with 

Religious of the Diocese, 5.30pm at St Patrick’s Cathedral 

20-22 JULY: Attend meeting of Australian Catholic Social 

Justice Council – Justice, Ecology & Development 

24 JULY: Solemn Mass for 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 

11am at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta 

27 JULY: Civic Reception with Parramatta City 

31 JULY: Mass for 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 6pm at 

Our Lady Queen of Peace, Greystanes, followed by WYD 

2016 In-sync (local celebration of World Youth Day, Krakow). 

40,500 copies of Catholic Outlook are 

distributed monthly through 47 parishes and 

86 schools. All material in this publication 

is copyright and may not be reproduced 

without permission of the editor. Catholic 

Outlook is a member of the Australasian 

Catholic Press Association. 

2 CatholicOutlook | JULY 2016 

www.catholicoutlook.org

DIOCESAN NEWS 

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE 

themselves to the Lord, serve Him and do 

what pleases Him. “My house shall be called a 

house of prayer for all peoples.” (Is 56:7) 

This is no small matter to the Jewish exiles 

who are suspicious of outsiders. It amounts to 

a seismic shift in their understanding of who 

God is and what it means to be His people: a 

tribal deity of old gives way to a universal and 

all-embracing God. We should ask ourselves 

what it means to apply this expansive vision 

of God to our social matrix and what it means 

to be a house for all peoples. 

Here in Sydney’s west, I am told, asylum 

seekers and youth radicalisation are 

politically charged issues. As a former boat 

person, I have a certain kinship to those who 

are alienated and marginalised. 

As your bishop, I am committed to be a 

bridge builder. We must foster pathways 

across the political and religious divide to 

build not only a rich and strong Australia but 

also an inclusive and humane society and a 

responsible world citizen. 

Furthermore, Pope Francis urges us 

to be a Church where everyone can feel 

welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged 

to live according to the Gospel. There can 

be no future for the living Church without 

there being space for those who have been 

hurt, damaged or alienated, be they abuse 

victims, survivors, divorcees, gays, lesbians or 

disaffected members. 

I am committed to make the Church 

in Parramatta the house for all peoples, a 

Church where there is less an experience of 

exclusion but more an encounter of radical 

love, inclusiveness and solidarity. 

“Love one another as I have loved you.” 

(Jn 13:34) These words of Jesus can be 

fully understood not only in terms of His 

relationship with the disciples but also in the 

larger context of His engagement with the 

people. 

There is that famous song, I want to know 

what love is. The world wants us to show them 

what Christian love is and we must admit at 

times what they find does not always match 

with the words, gestures and actions of Christ. 

He shows love not only by His passion and 

death on the cross. He also demonstrates 

that love through His acceptance, embrace, 

affirmation, compassion, forgiveness 

and solidarity, especially towards those 

stigmatised by others. 

Above: Aunty Janice Kennedy welcomes all to 

country. 

PHOTO: GIOVANNI PORTELLI 

Top: Bishop Vincent receives formal recognition 

from members of the Diocese. PHOTO: ALPHONSUS FOK 

In doing so He has a habit of challenging 

ingrained stereotyped attitudes, subverting 

the tyranny of the majority, breaking social 

taboos, pushing the boundaries of love and 

redefining its meaning. It is His radical vision 

of love, inclusion and human flourishing that 

ought to guide our pastoral response. 

‘I am committed 

to make the 

Church in 

Parramatta the 

house for all 

peoples’ 

We cannot regain our moral credibility 

without first reclaiming that vision of the 

humble, powerless, loving Servant-Leader, 

and making it the cornerstone of all that we 

do and all that we are as the Church. 

Dear friends, 

Today with you, the clergy and Catholic 

people of Parramatta, I am launching out into 

the deep. 

With you, I am embarking on a new exodus, 

walking as pilgrims together, accompanying 

one another as companions on the journey. 

“There is no greater love than to lay down 

one’s life for his friends.” (Jn 15:13) 

These words of Jesus challenge us to be 

the Church that we should be and could 

be: a house for all peoples, an oasis for the 

weary and troubled, a field hospital for the 

wounded, a refuge for the oppressed, a voice 

for the voiceless and faceless. 

It is also the invitation our Bishops 

Conference made to our nation at 

this time: to protect the vulnerable, poor and 

weak, to treat asylum seekers with justice and 

dignity, to respect life and to be good stewards 

of creation. 

With grateful heart, I ask for your prayer 

and support as I walk with you in the new 

exodus to the fullness of life and love. 

Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv 

16 June 2016 

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta 

Above: Hundreds of people waited to 

congratulate the new Bishop of Parramatta. 

 

PHOTOS: GIOVANNI PORTELLI 

For more photos by Alphonsus Fok and 

Giovanni Portelli go to 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/ 

parracatholic/albums 

To watch a video of the Mass of 

Installation go to http://parracatholic 

.org/watchlive/ 

www.catholicoutlook.org 

CatholicOutlook | JULY 2016 3

NEWS & EVENTS 

Long wait is over for Parramatta 

From left: Very Rev Wim Hoekstra EV, Msgr Ron McFarlane EV, Bishop Vincent Long, 

Very Rev Peter Williams VG EV, Very Rev Chris de Souza VG EV, Very Rev Peter Blayney 

JV and Rev Paul Roberts EV. 

There was great rejoicing during the Mass of Installation of Bishop Vincent. 

WESTERN SYDNEY and the Blue 

Mountains warmly welcomed 

Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv 

as the fourth Bishop of Parramatta on the 

evening of 16 June in St Patrick’s Cathedral, 

Parramatta. 

In a traditional Catholic ceremony, Bishop 

Vincent said he wanted to be a bridge 

builder to all communities and reach out to 

abuse victims, divorcees and the LGBTIQ 

community in particular. 

“There can be no future for the living 

Church without there being space for those 

who have been hurt, damaged or alienated, be 

they abuse victims, survivors, divorcees, gays, 

lesbians or disaffected members,” Bishop 

Vincent said. 

The Liturgical Reception and Mass of 

Installation was attended by thousands of 

faithful and visitors who overflowed from St 

Patrick’s Cathedral into Prince Alfred Square 

opposite. 

The Mass was concelebrated by the 

Archbishop of Sydney, Most Rev Anthony 

Fisher OP, the Pope’s representative in 

Australia, the Apostolic Nuncio His 

Excellency Most Rev Adolfo Tito Yllana, 

archbishops and bishops of Australia, clergy 

of the Diocese of Parramatta and visiting 

clergy. 

In his homily, Bishop Vincent said he 

was humbled by the appointment. “As your 

Bishop, I am committed to being a bridge 

builder,” he said. 

“The Scriptures we have heard tonight 

speak of a radical vision of love, inclusion and 

human flourishing. We should ask ourselves 

PHOTO: ALPHONSUS FOK. 

what it means to apply this expansive vision 

of God to our social matrix and what it means 

to be a house for all peoples.” 

Echoing Pope Francis, Bishop Vincent said, 

“We are urged to be a Church where everyone 

can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven and 

encouraged to live according to the Gospel 

… I am committed to making the Church 

in Parramatta the house for all peoples, a 

Church where there is less an experience of 

exclusion but more an encounter of radical 

love, inclusiveness and solidarity.” 

At the gathering were family and friends of 

Bishop Vincent, leaders and representatives 

of other churches and faiths, and civic and 

government representatives. 

In the forecourt prior to entering St Patrick’s 

Cathedral, Bishop Vincent was met by Aunty 

Janice Kennedy who gave a Welcome to 

Country. 

Uplifting music for the Mass was led by 

St Patrick’s Cathedral Choir conducted by 

Bernard Kirkpatrick. 

Reflecting the diversity of the Diocese, the 

universal prayer was prayed in Malayalam, 

Arabic, Cantonese, Spanish, Polish, Auslan 

and English. 

Following the Mass, Bishop Vincent greeted 

the many hundreds of people outside in a 

giant marquee, the Cathedral forecourt and 

Prince Alfred Square. 

Bishop Vincent welcomed everyone to 

supper at the Novotel Parramatta where the 

celebrations continued into the evening. 

Coverage continues on Pages 10-13 in this 

issue. 

NEW APPOINTMENTS 

IN THE DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA 

BISHOP VINCENT LONG 

OFM Conv has confirmed the 

following appointments in the 

Diocese of Parramatta: 

Very Rev Peter G Williams VG EV 

Vicar General and Moderator of 

the Curia, Episcopal Vicar for Social 

Welfare 

For one year from 17 June 2016 

Very Rev Christopher de Souza 

VG EV PP 

Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar for 

Education and Formation 


Msgr Ron McFarlane EV PP 

Chancellor and Episcopal Vicar for 

Migrant Chaplaincies and Pastoral 

Associates 


Very Rev Wim Hoekstra EV PP 

Episcopal Vicar for Priests 


Very Rev John McSweeney EV PP 

Episcopal Vicar for Deacons 


Very Rev Paul Roberts EV 

Episcopal Vicar for Evangelisation and 

Pastoral Planning 


Very Rev Peter Blayney JV PP 

Judicial Vicar 


Sr Ailsa Mackinnon RSM 

Vicar for Consecrated Life 


Rev Alfonsus Nahak SVD 

Assistant Priest 

St Andrew the Apostle Parish 

Marayong 

Effective 1 July 2016 

Rev Mr Owen Rogers 

Deacon Assisting 

Corpus Christi Parish, Cranebrook 

For a period of three years 

Rev Mr George Bryan 

Deacon Assisting 

Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, 

Blacktown 

For a period of four year 



IT’S A MATTER of paying 

it forward for Mandrid 

Fernandez (19), the new 

Youth Minister for St Matthew’s 

Parish, Windsor, and the Parish 

of Richmond. 

Reflecting on his time in Youth 

for Christ (YFC) International 

since high school and his 

home parish youth group at St 

Andrew’s, Marayong, Mandrid 

has come to recognise some of 

the greatest influences in his faith 

are those who took up the baton 

to lead him in his faith formation. 

“It started with Donnie Velasco, 

who is now the Assistant Director 

of the Institute for Mission," 

Mandrid explained. "He was a 

leader at St Andrew’s Parish and 

he was one of the first leaders 

who inspired me to get more 

involved. 

“Initially, you go for your 

friends and to have fun, but 

then the youth group provides 

you with opportunities to 

deepen your faith and to build 

relationships with those who 

show they genuinely care about 

you. 

“Through listening to talks 

and developing my knowledge 

of the faith, I began a journey of 

self discovery and from that self 

discovery, a discovery of faith.” 

Mandrid grew up in a Catholic 

family and attended Patrician 

Brothers’ College, Blacktown, 

but it wasn’t until Year 11 that 

he consciously made an effort 

to discern how his faith would 

shape his future. 

“I was studying subjects that 

catered for a career in technology 

and engineering, but as the year 

went on, I began volunteering 

as a Special Religious Education 

CatholicYouthParra @cyp_parramatta @CatholicYouthParra 

Mandrid’s paying it forward 

By Elizabeth McFarlane 

Youth Minister and WYD pilgrim Mandrid Fernandez. PHOTO: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE. 

(SRE) teacher in the nearby public 

school and then I was blessed to 

go on pilgrimage to WYD in Rio,” 

Mandrid explained. 

“Through those experiences, I 

discovered that I was being called 

to a different vocation and I 

developed a passion for living out 

my faith in my daily life.” 

Mandrid is a pilgrim to WYD 

in Krakow this month. “WYD 

opened my eyes to the broader 

Catholic faith. I had been in a 

parish youth group but it really 

highlighted for me how big the 

Church is and I learnt that there 

were other paths I could take to 

live out my faith,” he said. 

His faith inspired him to pursue 

a Bachelor of Theology and he is 

now in his second year of study 

at The University of Notre Dame 

Australia in Sydney. 

Complementing his studies, 

Mandrid decided to apply for 

the position of Youth Minister in 

Windsor and Richmond parishes. 

“I really want to share all of my 

experiences and further develop 

my own faith through walking 

with the young people here,” 

Mandrid said. 

“I want to show them that the 

faith is alive and beautiful because 

the modern world is telling them 

that religion is boring and that 

our faith is weird, but that’s just 

not the case. 

“My vision for this youth 

group is a tree that is strong and 

flourishing with fruit. For the 

moment, we’re planting the seeds 

to grow that tree.” 

Sr Rosie Drum MGL and James 

Camden from CYP have been a 

great support for Mandrid and 

the other nine youth ministers 

currently working within the 

Diocese of Parramatta. 

“They are here for all of us 

and coordinate events for us to 

come together to share ideas for 

developing the youth formation 

in the Diocese,” Mandrid said. 

“Sr Rosie taught me that Youth 

Ministry is about bringing the 

youth back to the sacramental 

life of the Church. My end goal 

is to get people to know God first 

because this isn’t just a job for 

me. It’s more than that. 

“The real reason I’m here is for 

His greater glory.” 

CATHOLIC YOUTH 

CYP summit focuses on safety 

WYD pilgrims Jane Sio and Sebastian Duhau welcome Bishop Vincent at 

his installation. 

PHOTO: ALPHONSUS FOK 

By James Camden, Director of Catholic Youth Parramatta 

ALMOST 100 youth 

and young adult 

leaders from across the 

Diocese gathered at the Novotel 

Parramatta for the 2nd Keeping 

our Young People Safe Summit 

in June. 

The Diocese of Parramatta 

through the work of CYP and 

the Office for Safeguarding 

& Professional Standards are 

national leaders in training 

youth and adults in best practices 

for keeping young people safe. 

Youth Ministry Directors from 

the dioceses of Broken Bay and 

Wollongong attended with the 

WYD 2016 KRAKOW UPDATE 

intention of implementing a 

similar program for their young 

people. 

The theme of the gathering 

was: “We're all called to be 

superheroes for the young 

people entrusted to our care.” 

The day dealt creatively with the 

latest in professional advice for 

paid staff and volunteers working 

with anyone under the age of 18 

and provided considerable time 

for participants to workshop 

and discuss scenarios that do, 

or could take place, in their 

ministries. 

After two years, final preparations are underway for more than 300 young 

people from the Diocese of Parramatta to attend World Youth Day in Poland. 

On 15 July, 210 pilgrims will depart for the Philippines, followed by another 90 

heading direct to Poland, five days later. The pilgrimage in the footsteps of St 

John Paul II will be led by Very Rev Chris de Souza VG EV and will include a visit 

to the former concentration camp Auschwitz when our two groups meet up in 

Krakow. Our pilgrims and their journey can be followed through daily updates 

on Diocesan social media as well as www.parracatholic.org and 

www.parrawyd.org 

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CATHOLIC YOUTH CatholicYouthParra @cyp_parramatta @CatholicYouthParra 

Alison Ryan: It’s all about relationship 


ALISON RYAN is the Youth Minister 

for Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, 

Blacktown and a member of the 

parish team. 

With her background in youth and music 

ministry, she is a firm example of how 

ministry can bring faith to our future. 

Holding a Bachelor of Theology from 

ACU and a Cert IV in Theatre Performance 

and Practices, she has organised national 

and international youth festivals and has led 

music ministry locally and abroad. 

After more than 18 years’ experience in 

youth ministry, both in the Antioch youth 

movement and other parishes, Alison believes 

all ministries are “about relationship”. 

“I am driven in my understanding of 

ministry by Matthew 28:19 when Jesus says to 

His disciples, ‘Go and make disciples,’” Alison 

explained. 

“It’s not, go and be the best teachers you can 

be. It is, you are disciples who make disciples.” 

Alison also remarked on the importance 

of removing categories that could limit our 

perception of ministering to young people 

through flawed connotations. 

“We can’t keep siloing things. I’m going 

to be subversive and say, ditch the ‘youth’ 

additive, let’s focus on ministry,” Alison said. 

“It’s about a widespread and rich vision of 

ministry for the whole parish that highlights 

A gifted singer and musician, Alison Ryan wants to empower and engage young people in all areas of 

parish life. 

PHOTO: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE 

the many and varied gifts of parishioners 

across generations and engages young people 

in the life of the community. 

“There’s a huge risk when people think 

‘youth ministry’ is just about youth groups or 

that it’s about ministering ‘to’ young people or 

doing something ‘for’ young people.” 

Rather, Alison provides her own definition 

of ministry. 

“Ministry is walking with people. That’s how 

God responds to the needs of the world. God 

dwelt among us. That is how we reflect God in 

our lives – being with people,” she explained. 

“In my opinion, there’s nothing worse than 

a pizza night if that’s all youth ministry is in 

your parish. It has to be more than that, right? 

“What happens when they’re not youth 

anymore? If you’ve told them that they’re only 

part of the youth group, then what’s going to 

keep them in the parish? 

“The way that I was brought up in Antioch is 

that it’s not about doing something ‘for’ young 

people, it’s about empowering and engaging 

young people in all parish life.” 

Alison’s approach to ministry is refreshing, 

as is her style. A nod towards her musical 

background, Alison typically sports a T-shirt 

hallowing a musical band of choice. 

“I will never forget the first time I stepped 

into a Year Six class at the age of 26. The 

Bulk Billing for GP Services 

students questioned me: ‘You’re from the 

Church?’ From that day forward, it has always 

been jeans and a T-shirt because they’re not 

expecting someone young who loves their 

faith,” she explained. 

When faced with questions about how 

sending young people to World Youth Day 

will benefit parishes in the here and now, 

Alison explained that the imperative to 

receive cannot be the motivation for ministry. 

“Ministry can’t be about a transaction. It 

can’t be the expectation that if we invest in 

you, you have to give us something back,” she 

said. 

“What we’re doing in youth ministry isn’t 

always going to show fruit here in this parish, 

because the problem with young people is 

that they don’t stay young! They move house. 

They go and study somewhere else. They get 

married. 

“But if we can do ministry really well, if we 

can form disciples, then we’re contributing 

to the future of the Church, no matter where 

they are.” 

Mary, Queen of the Family Parish holds a 

Youth Mass every Sunday night at 5.30pm at 

St Patrick’s Church, Blacktown. The OASIS 

youth group also runs different events 

throughout the month, including sports days 

and prayer nights. 

To watch a video of Alison Ryan singing 

Indescribable go to: http://catholicoutlook. 

org/type/video/ 

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'Together Today, 

Towards Tomorrow' 

By Rev Wim Hoekstra, Episcopal Vicar for Priests 

DIOCESAN NEWS 

EIGHTY PRIESTS and 

deacons of the Diocese 

of Parramatta gathered at 

Magenta Shores Resort near The 

Entrance on the evening of 23 May 

to spend three days together in 

fellowship, prayer and discussion 

as we focused on the conference 

theme, 'Together Today, Towards 

Tomorrow'. 

Led by Br Graham Neist FMS as 

facilitator, we began by reflecting on 

the life of the Diocese since it was 

established 30 years ago in 1986 and 

the life of the clergy today. 

A SWOT analysis (strengths, 

weaknesses, opportunities and 

threats) provided the basis for 

ongoing discussions. 

On Tuesday morning, we heard 

powerful testimonies from Br Kevin 

McDonnell CFC and Mrs Tessie Ida 

James. 

Brother Kevin spoke about 

how the Christian Brothers were 

working to reclaim their identity 

and mission as a religious order 

following issues of child abuse. 

Tessie shared her personal 

experience as a migrant starting a 

new life in Australia. 

This provided a good background 

to our discussion on the Royal 

Commission into Institutional 

Responses to Child Sexual Abuse 

and its effects on our way of 

ministering the Good News. 

For the rest of the conference 

we discussed areas of growth - as 

clergy, as individuals, as a Diocese 

– and recognised the two-way 

challenge of living and growing in a 

many-cultured context. 

We acknowledged the cultural 

diversity of our clergy, our people 

and our society, and in the light 

of all our discussion, agreed on 

pathways of growth for supporting 

clergy life and formation over the 

next five years. 

Broadly speaking, these pathways 

were identified as: 

• A Christ-centred spirituality for 

identity and mission; 

• A brotherly understanding; 

• Spirit-inspired official processes of 

vision and decision; 

• Ongoing formation commitment 

and provision; 

• A genuinely intercultural 

framework of operating and 

understanding; 

• A core diocesan mission that is 

Christ’s mission of being one with 

the marginalised; 

• A collaborative commitment to 

the support and wellbeing of clergy, 

for both personal and missionfocussed 

goals; and 

• A revision of skills, communications, 

structures and ways of 

leadership that enables clergy and 

Church to be a prophetic voice in 

our age. 

The insights and priorities from 

the conference will significantly 

inform Bishop Vincent Long as he 

initiates his vision and priorities. 

We were pleased to have Bishop 

Vincent with us on two days of 

the conference and he, along with 

our two bishops emeriti, Bishop 

Bede Heather and Bishop Kevin 

Manning, and the clergy present 

celebrated a 30th anniversary Mass 

on 25 May. The Mass was followed 

by a celebratory dinner at which 

Mons John Boyle proposed the 

toast to the Diocese. 

In Mk 6:31, Jesus tells His 

Above: Clergy take part in the 

installation of Bishop Vincent Long on 

June 16. PHOTO: GIOVANNI PORTELLI 

Left: From left: Fr Matthew Digges, Fr 

Andrew Fornal OP & Fr Peter Confeggi 

participate at the Clergy Conference. 

 

PHOTO: ADRIAN MIDDELDORP 

disciples, “Come away and rest a 

little while”, and I think this was the 

impetus for us as clergy to come 

together and be with each other 

in a more relaxed atmosphere. 

Thanks to our parishioners for 

allowing us this time away, and to 

the Diocese for supporting this 

endeavour. 

A word of thanks also to the 

members of the Ongoing Formation 

Committee who helped organise 

the seminar and Br Graham for his 

role as facilitator. 

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You will be taken on a voyage of exploration through issues 

such as Church mission, ministry, and ecumenism under the 

care and guidance of Pope Francis. 

Learn about the concept of the ‘Church in the World’, developed 

when Vatican II stressed that the Church should ‘discern 

the signs of the times’ and interpret them in the ‘light of the 

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Massimo Faggioli is a theologian, political scientist, church 

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Generosity across generations in Merrylands 


THE ESTABLISHMENT of St 

Margaret Mary’s Parish, Merrylands, 

on 17 November 1946 was the 

beginning of a rich tapestry of community 

driven service and support. 

Terry Dickie, a parishioner since 1963, is 

overwhelmed by the generosity shown by 

generations of people who have become “the 

backbone of the Church”. 

“We have never had a problem getting 

people to do things for this parish. Everybody 

gets involved and it’s such a wonderful thing 

to see,” Terry said. 

“There are generations of faith-filled people 

who have provided remarkable service and we 

have a strong youth presence at Merrylands 

through our youth group, Pauline S.W.A.T. 

“The youth group is made up of dedicated 

young people who are the leading light for 

our fundraising initiatives, and the weekday 

Masses are well patronised by those who, 

in their retirement, continue to serve on 

committees and through groups like St 

Vincent de Paul.” 

St Margaret Mary’s has had five parish 

priests over its 70-year history. Portraits of 

four of them are displayed on the left wall as 

you enter the church. 

The portraits of Fr Luigi Tosi, Fr John 

Kerrisk, Fr Rod Bray and Fr Albert 

Wasniowski hang on the wall as an 

acknowledgement of the years they devoted 

to the parish. 

Today, the parish is guided by the Parish 

Priest, Fr Janusz Pawlicha OSPPE, and 

Assistant Priest Fr Peter James Strohmayer 

OSPPE, who are continuing the pastoral 

care of the Order of St Paul the First Hermit 

(known as the Pauline Fathers). 

“The Pauline Fathers are brilliant. You 

couldn’t have wished for better priests. They 

get up and go, and they are very friendly and 

care about the community,” Terry said. 

“When Fr Janusz came to Merrylands, he 

decided to have a morning tea after every 

10.30am Sunday Mass to gather people 

together so they could get to know each other. 

“They had a special morning tea earlier 

this year to bless the new roof that was fully 

funded by parishioners. It really showed how 

appreciative Fr Janusz was for the donations.” 

From the 1950s onwards, immigration 

sped up the natural development that was 

Celebrate the Holy Year of Mercy by supporting priests, religious sisters and brothers wherever the Church is poor, persecuted or threatened 

A priest visiting the sick in Peru 

Youth from Merrylands designed the mosaic above the altar in St Margaret 

Mary’s Church. 

PHOTOS: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE 

occurring at St Margaret Mary’s and that has 

directed the great multicultural community 

present today. 

The annual Food Festival is a celebration of 

all the different nationalities that make up the 

parish community, where different cultures 

come together and share their traditional 

dishes. 

“Masses here are mostly fully packed and 

there is a good mix of people from different 

backgrounds,” Terry explained. 

Terry and his wife, Norma, have been 

dedicated members of the parish community 

for more than 50 years, and in that time, they 

“have always felt welcomed and appreciated”. 

Terry has been organising the counting 

roster for more than 10 years and supports 

the Finance Committee, while Norma is 

involved in the St Vincent de Paul parish 

conference. 

“It was only natural to want to give back. It 

just seemed like the thing to do,” Terry said. 

When Terry and Norma arrived in 

Merrylands they felt immediately embraced 

by the parish. 

“They adopted us without any qualms. 

They just opened their doors to us,” Terry 

explained. 

Above: The portraits of Fr Luigi Tosi, Fr John Kerrisk, Fr Rod Bray and 

Fr Albert Wasniowski hang on the wall as an acknowledgement of the 

years they devoted to Merrylands Parish. 

Below: St Margaret Mary’s Church at Merrylands. 

“That meant a lot to us. They’re a friendly 

mob and they took us under their wing. After 

about 19 years of retirement, I still visit two 

or three days a week and Norma visits almost 

every day to help out.” 

The Pauline Fathers have been, for more 

than 630 years, renowned Custodians of the 

Miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Jasna Góra 

(the Black Madonna), Poland. On 23 June, Fr 

Janusz celebrated the 32nd anniversary of his 

ordination to the priesthood. 

For more about the Pauline Fathers visit 

paulinefathers.org.au 

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‘You do not choose your order, your order chooses you’ 


THE LIFE of a hermit, away from 

technology and with limited access 

to the outside world, is not a life most 

people would choose. In some cases, however, 

an order such as the Order of St Paul the First 

Hermit, chooses you. 

Fr Peter James Strohmayer OSPPE, 

Provincial Administrator and Assistant Priest 

at St Margaret Mary’s Parish in Merrylands, 

initially studied at Macquarie University to be 

a teacher. 

“I thought my life was going to follow the 

path of Religious Education Coordinator, 

Assistant Principal, then Principal,” Fr Peter 

said. 

Fr Peter grew up in a Catholic Polish/ 

Austrian family and despite straying from the 

faith in his early high school years, the local 

Antioch group came knocking when he was 

in Year 11. 

“I was in my dressing gown and the Antioch 

group came to my house. My Mum didn’t give 

me a choice, I had to go,” he recalled. 

Fr Peter became heavily involved in the 

Antioch youth movement, beginning in 

Cabramatta and ending in Smithfield. 

“A friend told me the Polish priests were 

now at Smithfield and could do with my 

assistance,” Fr Peter explained. 

“It was after a Saturday evening Mass that 

I met the then parish priest of Smithfield, Fr 

Albert Wieslaw Wa'sniowski OSPPE. He told 

me to come in for a coffee with the Pauline 

Fathers, and I guess I’ve never left.” 

But Fr Peter was still pursuing a career as a 

Taking a leap of faith, Fr Peter Strohmayer OSPPE packed his life into a 20kg suitcase and set off for 

Poland. 

PHOTO: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE. 

teacher and completed his four-year teaching 

degree. 

“I had gone for a job in Granville but I was 

unsuccessful. I told Fr Albert that I hadn’t got 

it and he said, ‘Thank God, my prayers have 

been answered,’” Fr Peter said with a laugh. 

“We were sitting in the church at Smithfield 

and Fr Albert said I had to make a decision. 

I was going to turn 30 and I had to choose 

whether to stay and discern the priesthood or 

to pursue teaching and marriage. 

“I said I would give it a go but that I 

couldn’t guarantee anything, and so I entered 

the novitiate after World Youth Day 2008 in 

Sydney.” 

Fr Peter had four days to pack and pen 

his final reports as a contracted teacher. He 

packed his life into a 20kg suitcase and set off 

for Poland. 

“I couldn’t even speak the language. I could 

say basic things like ‘cup’, but I couldn’t put 

sentences together,” Fr Peter explained. 

“The word for soap and the word for honey 

are similar in Polish. So I went to my Novice 

Master and I asked him for honey so that I 

could shower. Needless to say, he gave me a 

very strange look. 

“But it was a good group. We spent nearly 

two months in Kraków and then we moved 

to the Novitiate in Lesniow, which is the 

Sanctuary of Our Lady Patroness of Families. 

It was essentially a huge farm.” 

Fr Peter had no access to electronic devices. 

He was allowed to send one letter home 

a month to his parents and one letter to a 

Religious, and his parents could call him once 

a month for 15 minutes. 

“There was a lot of frustration. Before I 

left, I had my own car and my own money. 

I had certain freedoms, but in giving them 

up, I gained a new level of freedom,” Fr Peter 

explained. 

“You gain so much in the brothers who 

surround you. We’d start the day at 5am and 

be in bed by 10pm. We had to grow and pick 

tomatoes and vegetables, hew trees, shovel 

coal and serve Mass.” 

The pathway to Fr Peter’s vocation had 

been paved. 

“I had visited Europe in 2007 before the 

novitiate and I now realise that was the start 

of my vocation. After visiting Jasna Góra, I 

was mesmerised by Our Lady’s gaze in the 

Icon of the Black Madonna,” Fr Peter said. 

“I do not suit the order at all. It’s a semicontemplative 

Order of Hermits. Even in 

Poland, I would get in trouble for being too 

loud. They knew where I was by my laugh. 

But I suppose the Holy Spirit has a funny side. 

“That is why I am sure that you do not 

choose your order, your order chooses you.” 

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DIOCESAN NEWS 

Refugees find open hearts and homes 


NANETTE and Brian D’Arcy have 

been “welcoming the stranger” for 

decades. The couple led a group that 

has actively resettled 180 migrant families 

since the 1970s as a part of the Refugee 

Resettlement Program at St Bernadette’s 

Parish, Castle Hill. 

Cardinal Freeman had asked Catholics 

to open their hearts and homes to the 

Vietnamese refugees. Nanette had been 

brought up housing the homeless through a 

‘stranger room’ on the back veranda of her 

childhood home and felt a natural disposition 

to respond to the call. 

“The Vietnamese refugees were very 

grateful to anybody who would lend a hand 

and they found it interesting that people 

would help them, even though they were not 

blood related,” Nanette said. 

“But that’s been the history of Australia. 

Even when I was a child, we had a big influx 

of what we called ‘swaggies’ and they would 

come to the back door looking for a meal. My 

By John Ferguson, Executive Officer, 

Australian Catholic Social Justice 

Council 

THE MEMBERS and staff of the 

Australian Catholic Social Justice 

Council (ACSJC) were thrilled when 

we heard the news that Bishop Vincent Long 

had been appointed the Bishop of Parramatta. 

Bishop Vincent has been Chairman of the 

ACSJC since May 2015. His personal style 

has been obvious from the outset: a gentle 

presence, a deep sense of pastoral mission, 

and a powerful eloquence. 

The ACSJC is the national justice and peace 

agency of the Catholic Church in Australia. 

Our mandate is to ‘promote research, 

education, advocacy and action on social 

justice, peace and human rights, integrating 

them deeply into the life of the whole Catholic 

community in Australia, and providing a 

credible Catholic voice on these matters in 

Australian society’. 

Nanette D’Arcy has been ‘welcoming the stranger’ for decades. 

Dad had a set-up in Tenterfield where they 

could bunk in and be warm, and my Mum 

would always feed them.” 

Along with the numerous families who 

visited and lived in the D’Arcy household, a 

As Bishop Vincent stepped into his role as 

our Chairman, we were preparing to publish 

and launch the Australian Bishops’ 2015–16 

Social Justice Statement, titled For Those 

Who’ve Come Across the Seas: Justice for 

refugees and asylum seekers. 

This justice issue is dear to his heart and 

part of his own journey to Australia. At the 

launch of the statement in September last 

year, he showed himself as a powerful voice 

for justice and mercy: 

“I remember with pride the Australia that 

rose to the challenge in the past with its 

generous embrace of migrants and refugees. 

It proved itself especially courageous during 

the Indochinese exodus and accepted an 

unprecedented number of Asian refugees. 

Australia changed for the better as it always 

has with each successive wave of new arrivals 

… 

“We honour the legacy of this great nation 

not by excessive protectionism, isolation and 

defence of our privilege at all costs. Rather, 

we make it greater by our concern and care 


young man called Vincent Long would “drop 

by often for Vietnamese food, cooked by 

the two Catholic Vietnamese families living 

downstairs”. 

“Vincent was a rather studious, respectful 

A powerful voice for justice and mercy 

for asylum seekers in the spirit of compassion 

and solidarity.” 

The circumstances faced by refugees are 

not the only issue on the ACSJC’s agenda. 

Australia’s Bishops call us to speak out for 

the most marginalised in our society – 

particularly our Indigenous brothers and 

sisters. 

The Bishops speak out against structures 

and systems that keep people poor and 

voiceless. They speak for those who are 

exploited in the workplace – especially for 

those in slavery or slave-like conditions; for 

the elderly and vulnerable, including people 

with disability; and for our brothers and 

sisters overseas who deserve the support of 

rich countries like ours. 

On all these topics Bishop Vincent has 

shown leadership, compassion and a concern 

for the needs of ordinary people. The Council 

and Secretariat of the ACSJC look forward to 

working with Bishop Vincent to address these 

issues and send our prayers and best wishes to 

him and the rich and diverse diocese he leads. 

and shy young man, who we also came to 

realise had a great sense of humour,” Nanette 

explained. 

The D’Arcys continue to open their house 

to those in need, providing the essentials for 

life in a new land, and the company and warm 

kindness that led to them being the proud 

recipients of the Order of Australia Medal 

(OAM) in 1992. 

“The refugee boat-people have worked hard 

and they give back to society in so many ways. 

We now have lots of Vietnamese doctors, 

lawyers, chemists and dentists, whose parents 

worked long hours to give their children 

educational advantages,” Nanette explained. 

“Australia has gained so much, as has my 

family, and now we have a Vietnamese Bishop 

of Parramatta. Alleluia!” 

To watch a video of Nannette sharing her 

memories of the resettlement program, visit 

the Diocese of Parramatta’s Youtube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/user/ 

ParramattaDiocese/videos 

The cover of the Australian Bishops’ 2015–16 

Social Justice Statement, titled For Those Who’ve 

Come Across the Seas. 

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We invite you to join in this pilgrimage, 

commencing Melbourne 9 November 2016, 

ending Sydney 19th November 2016. 

LITURGICAL MINISTRY FORMATION COURSE 

This course offered by the Office for Worship begins with a Compulsory 

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DIOCESAN NEWS 

Introduction by Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP 

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP embraces his friend and successor in Parramatta, Bishop Vincent. 

 

PHOTO: ALPHONSUS FOK 

IN HIS introduction to the Mass of 

Installation of Bishop Vincent Long OFM 

Conv, Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP, 

Archbishop of Sydney, said it was a night of 

great rejoicing for all across the Diocese of 

Parramatta. 

“It gives us much joy that Bishop Vincent’s 

mother, Mrs van Quang Nguyen, is here, 

along with his godmother, Mrs Thi-man 

Truong, and four of his siblings with their 

families,” he said. 

“Many of the bishop’s friends are here 

too, some having come from interstate or 

overseas. There are also many members of the 

Vietnamese Catholic community celebrating 

the first Vietnamese-Australian bishop of a 

diocese. 

“Bishop Vincent will quickly discover that 

Western Sydney is a most energetic and 

energising part of the Church in Australia 

today. It is the most Catholic part of our 

nation and where the Church is youngest, 

most ethnically diverse and fastest growing. 

“Parramatta is also the only Australian 

diocese in which all those who have been 

privileged to be Bishop are still alive; given 

that His Lordship can expect to have at least 

20 years ahead of him we may not all be here 

to welcome the fifth Bishop of Parramatta! 

“I have known Vincent since seminary 

days and can assure the priests and people of 

Parramatta that they are receiving a shepherd 

after the heart of the Good Shepherd! 

“The installation of a new bishop marks 

the commencement of a new chapter in the 

life of the local church. These times call for 

bishops of faith and compassion, of courage 

and mercy. 

“Pope Francis has expressed confidence 

that Bishop Vincent is the man for this job. As 

Metropolitan Archbishop and as the bearer 

of the most recent posterior to have occupied 

this chair, it will be my privilege to seat the 

new Bishop in it.” 

Melbourne farewells Bishop Vincent Long 

By Most Rev Denis Hart, Archbishop of Melbourne, 

President, Australian Catholic Bishops Conference 

ON 1 JUNE, we farewelled a bishop, a 

brother and a leader in the work of 

the Gospel. 

This farewell was particularly poignant 

because after arriving in Australia in 1980 by 

boat in challenging circumstances, redolent of 

so many migrants who were fleeing violence 

and terror, Bishop Vincent made his home in 

Melbourne. 

Three years later he joined the Conventual 

Franciscans and was ordained in 1989. His 

priestly ministry in Melbourne included the 

parish of Springvale and in May 2011 he was 

made Auxiliary Bishop. 

The last five years have been a remarkable 

story. It demonstrates what so many Catholics 

have to share so richly; we come from all over 

the world, we are nurtured with the faith that 

comes from the Apostles and we share the 

hope that no darkness can blot out. 

Bishop Vincent worked tirelessly, visiting 

and encouraging and reaching out to those 

who have lost faith, in the Western region 

and throughout the Archdiocese. He had 

a strong involvement in the social welfare 

of the Church and as Chair of the Catholic 

Education Commission of Victoria. 

I offer my personal thanks to Bishop 

Vincent for his understanding, loyalty and 

friendship. I thank his mother and family for 

their support and gift of him to the Church. 

I thank the people of our parishes and the 

Vietnamese community for their love and 

encouragement. 

I know Bishop Vincent as a man of honesty 

and total integrity. This is a moment of 

recognition of the gifts which Bishop Vincent 

has carried so humbly and which he brings 

with him to the tremendous task of leading 

the youngest and biggest non-metropolitan 

Diocese in the country and he will do so with 

courage and devotion, always focussed on 

Jesus Christ. 

I know Melbourne will be richer because of 

his presence and courage, poorer and a little 

sadder because of his departure, yet filled 

with hope for what God will achieve through 

him in the Church. 

Archbishop Hart with a young Fr Vincent Long. Photo: Catholic Communications, Melbourne. 

Bishop Vincent we salute you as a successor 

of the apostles and a brother bishop; we wish 

you many years as the leader of Parramatta 

and we thank you for your kindness, your 

courage and your devoted leadership of our 

people. May the Lord be with you always. 

When the care you seek is 

unconditional - talk to us. 

wnbull@wnbull.com (02) 9519 5344 

www.wnbull.com.au 

Parra_Outlook.indd 1 


17/05/2016 4:51 pm 


DIOCESAN NEWS 

The installation and first Mass of 

MOST REV VINCENT LONG OFM 

PHOTOS BY GIOVANNI PORTELLI & ALPHONSUS FOK 

Above: Bishop Vincent 

takes a moment to pray 

in the Blessed 

Sacrament Chapel. 

Right: The Apostolic 

Nuncio, Archbishop 

Adolfo Tito Yllana reads 

the Papal Bull. 


Above: St Patricks' Cathedral choir takes part in the liturgy. Left: Miss Gaby Zychowska reads one of the Universal 

Prayers in Polish. 


Left: Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv signs the 

Certification of Reception of Apostolic Letter of Appointment 

before his entrance. The Missionary Sisters 

of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of the World 

sing a reflection during the installation. Hundreds of 

clergy concelebrated the Mass of Installation. 

 

PHOTOS: GIOVANNI PORTELLI/ALPHONSUS FOK 

5 

Above: Former Diocesan Administrator Very Rev 

Peter G Williams. 


TWO MEN TALK ABOUT MARRIAGE BOOK LAUNCH 

THURSDAY 14 JULY FROM 7PM-8.30PM IN ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL HALL 

The Family and Life Office, Parramatta is proud to host the official Sydney Book Launch and 

Speaking Event of the new book Two Men Talk About Marriage. 

Come and hear a fresh and engaging approach to the marriage discussion from Sydney-based 

authors Dr Jeremy Bell and Mr John McCaughan. 

Books can purchased at the event or online from the publisher Connor Court: 

www.connorcourt.com 

LIMITED SPACES! RSVP to the Family & Life Office, Parramatta, tel (02) 8838 3441 or 

email famlife@parra.catholic.org.au 

St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta (plenty of parking available) 



DIOCESAN NEWS 

CONV 

Above: At the conclusion of Mass, all 

were invited to a reception with the 

newly installed Bishop Vincent Long at 

the Novotel Hotel. PHOTOS: ALPHONSUS FOK 

Above/left: Bishop Vincent Long celebrates his first Mass as Bishop of Parramatta 

at St Patrick's Cathedral on 17 June. 

PHOTOS: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE 

APOSTOLIC LETTER 

From Francis, Bishop, 

Servant of the Servants of God 

To Our Venerable Brother, 

Vincent Long Van 

Nguyen of the Order of 

Friars Minor Conventual, until 

now Titular Bishop of Thala, 

and Auxiliary of the Archdiocese 

of Melbourne, elected 

Bishop of Parramatta: Greetings 

and our Apostolic Blessing. 

We place great hope in God, 

who, "saved us ... in virtue of 

his own mercy, by the washing 

of regeneration and renewal 

in the Holy Spirit, which 

he poured out upon us richly 

through Jesus Christ our saviour" 

(Titus 3:5-6), and constantly 

supported by divine 

grace. 

We have solicitude for all 

Catholics throughout the 

world, bearing constant witness 

to the message of salvation, 

that it may grow and 

spread amongst peoples. 

So now, we turn our attention 

to the flock of Christ in 

Parramatta, who after the 

transfer of our Venerable 

Brother Anthony Colin Fisher, 

of the Order of Preachers, to 

the Metropolitan See of Sydney, 

is bereft of a Pastor. 

Since, Venerable Brother, 

you have exercised well the 

Episcopal ministry and have 

shown the necessary gifts and 

qualities as well as the ability 

of governance, We are confident 

that you are able to assume 

the office of bishop to 

this diocesan community. 

And so, having considered 

the opinion of the Congregation 

for Bishops, by our Apostolic 

authority, We appoint you 

as Bishop of Parramatta, with 

all the rights and obligations 

which accompany that office 

according to Canon Law, and 

release you from those which 

bound you to your former Titular 

See and former duty as 

Auxiliary Bishop. 

You will ensure that the Clergy 

and People of your Diocese 

become aware of this Apostolic 

Letter; and we urge them 

gently to always treasure you, 

and show you all obedience, 

due collaboration and love. 

Finally, Venerable Brother, 

We urge you fraternally, trusting 

always in Jesus, with the 

prayers of the Virgin Mary, the 

Blessed Mother of God, and 

of Saint Francis, to serve with 

great zeal the flock entrusted 

to you, especially your priests, 

the families of your Diocese, 

the poor and the weak, and 

"by your moral stance you impart 

goodness in the ears of 

your people, and soften them 

by the grace of your words". (St 

Ambrose, Letters 36.5). 

Given at Rome, at Saint Peter's, 

on the fifth day of May, in 

the Year of the Lord Two Thousand 

and Sixteen, during the 

Jubilee of Mercy, in the fourth 

year of our Pontificate. 

Franciscus 

Francis Felice, 

Protonotary 

Apostolic. 

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A true Spanish fiesta as we set out to explore 

the great cities, shrines, saints and ancient 

pilgrim roads of this most spectacular country. 

Featuring: Madrid • Burgos • Astorga 

• Santiago de Compostela • Fatima 

ALBERT & MEYER 

FUNERAL DIRECTORS 

Serving the 

Parramatta Diocese 

since 1967 

Australian Family Owned & Operated 

301-303 PENNANT HILLS ROAD, THORNLEIGH 

9484 3992 

ALL SUBURBS 24 HOURS 

www.albertmeyer.com.au 

Rebecca Pincott Michael Bolton 



CATHOLIC EDUCATION www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra CatholicEdParra 

Be Safe, Be Respectful, 

Be Responsible online 

MANY PARENTS are fearful 

of their children becoming 

active online. We’ve all heard 

the horror stories in the 

news. Yet many parents and 

grandparents are actually 

the first to develop an 

online presence for their 

youngsters. 

Keep safe online 

By some estimates, the average parent posts about 

1000 images of their child online before his or her fifth 

birthday. It’s a much, much more public version of the 

old-fashioned “brag-book”. In fact, most adults, me 

included, use the internet frequently on a daily basis, 

including the use of social media sites like Twitter and 

Facebook. 

Given the prevalence of the internet and social media, 

rather than fear their involvement, it is crucial that we 

teach our young people responsible online behaviour to 

keep them safe. 

As parents and educators, supporting children as they 

develop their social skills is a major part of our role – 

the use of “social” media is no different. Though the 

social settings we grew up with have changed, our 

duty to prepare younger generations to participate in a 

respectful and responsible way has not. 

If we fail in this duty, there’s a risk that young people 

will view online spaces as morally neutral. As a result, we 

become part of the problem and promote “anti-social” 

content. Preparing our children and students to make 

a positive contribution to society, including through 

their activities online, is a must. This is what we mean by 

“digital citizenship”. 

Part of our responsibility as parents and educators is to 

ensure that young people’s use of technology is ageappropriate. 

This requires a high level of supervision 

but, unfortunately, it cannot prevent children from being 

exposed to anti-social material on the internet. 

By taking an active role in monitoring and limiting 

access, as needed, we can assist in preparing young 

people for future independent and responsible online 

use. This includes honest conversations about predatory 

behaviour and confronting or inappropriate images. 

To help parents and educators raise this issue with their 

children and students we have created a resource called 

Cyberwise, which encourages young people to Be Safe, 

Be Respectful, Be Responsible online. 

I am very proud of our students from St Mark’s Catholic 

College, Stanhope Gardens, who recently created and 

produced a short film as part of this resource. It is a 

creative way to communicate a very important message. 

I encourage you to watch this video with your children or 

students and talk about the importance of cyber safety. 

On 16 June we welcomed our new Bishop, Most Rev 

Vincent Long Van Nguyen OFM Conv, and on behalf of 

our staff and families I look forward to working with him 

in our mission of Catholic education. 

Greg Whitby 

Executive Director of Schools 

@gregwhitby 

blog: bluyonder.wordpress.com 

CYBERWISE: BE SAFE I BE RESPECTFUL I BE RESPONSIBLE 

Schools launch Cyberwise campaign 

CONNECTIVITY has become an integral 

part of everyday life and learning. As students 

communicate, collaborate, create and learn with 

online and digital tools, the need to educate 

students about responsible online behaviours 

has become more important than ever. 

Launched on 15 June, Cyberwise is a learning 

and teaching resource for students, teachers and 

parents to encourage cybersafety in schools. 

Available through Catholic Education’s Classm8 

site, the Cyberwise web page provides a range of 

resources, policies, teaching strategies and tips 

TOP TIPS FOR PARENTS TO HELP 

KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE ONLINE 

• Be aware of how your child uses the internet and 

explore it with them; 

• Discuss with your child the importance of keeping 

personal information private; 

• Talk about cyberbullying and remind your child 

online communication should be responsible and 

respectful; 

• Advise your child not to respond to any negative 

messages; 

• Consider using inbuilt filters and controls on your 

digital devices to manage your child’s access; and 

• Keep your virus protection up to date. 

For more information visit: www.esafety.gov.au or 

http://cnadigitalcitizenship.weebly.com/for-parents.html 

to support young people in becoming discerning 

and responsible users of technology and social 

media. 

Designed in collaboration with teachers and 

students, Cyberwise is underpinned by Catholic 

values and key behaviours to be safe, be 

respectful and be responsible. 

The focus on these three areas encourages 

students to be mindful of their online activity in 

a way that puts relationships, human dignity and 

personal reputations at the forefront. 

Students from St Mark’s Catholic College, 

Stanhope Gardens, took an active role in 

contributing to the Cyberwise campaign by 

producing a video that would provide a student 

view of cybersafety issues and a starting point 

for discussion within the classroom. 

Year 10 St Mark’s student Jacob Aouchan said 

the Cyberwise video was extremely relevant for 

students. 

“It is really important that young people have 

a greater awareness of the dangers and risks 

associated with social media and are encouraged 

to be proactive and seek help when needed,” 

Jacob said. 

WATCH NOW 

http://www.learningexchange.nsw.edu.au/cyberwise 



www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra CatholicEdParra 

Prime Minister Turnbull 

announces McCarthy as part 

of P -Tech pilot program 

Catholic school students 

welcome Bishop Vincent Long, 

fourth Bishop of Parramatta 

CATHOLIC EDUCATION 

Patrician Brothers’ College 

benefits from dynamic new 

learning spaces 

McCarthy students with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Senator 

Simon Birmingham, Fiona Scott MP, Greg Whitby and Principal 

Patricia Baker. 

THE PRIME MINISTER, Malcolm Turnbull, announced 

that McCarthy Catholic College, Emu Plains, would be one 

of 12 pilot schools involved in the $4.6 million expansion 

of the Pathways in Technology Early College High School 

program (P -Tech). 

Mr Turnbull made the announcement at the college on 30 

May. He was joined by the Minister for Education, Senator 

Simon Birmingham, and the Member for Lindsay, Fiona 

Scott. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) was announced as a key 

partner of the program. 

“We know that in order to succeed in the 21st Century 

we need to ensure that Australia and Australians are 

more innovative, more technologically sophisticated,” Mr 

Turnbull said. 

“Particularly because our young Australians are studying 

STEM subjects and are becoming more familiar with 

computer programming, and all of those skills that are the 

digital literacy of the 21st Century.” 

Mr Turnbull, Senator Birmingham, Ms Scott and Executive 

Director of Schools Greg Whitby used the opportunity 

to meet students and participate in a range of Science 

Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) 

activities, including a speed racing track, the use of a 3D 

printer and seeing coding and robotics in action. 

Catholic students greet Bishop Vincent during the Liturgical 

Reception on 16 June. 

PHOTO: GIOVANNI PORTELLI. 

THERE was much excitement following the announcement 

on 5 May that Pope Francis had appointed Most Rev 

Vincent Long Van Nguyen OFM Conv as the fourth Bishop 

of Parramatta. 

Students and teachers expressed their delight at the 

appointment, with many recalling Bishop Vincent from his 

previous time in the Diocese, particularly at Our Lady of 

the Rosary Parish, Kellyville, where he served as assistant 

priest from 1995-98 and parish priest from 1998-2002. 

Coordinator of Learning at St Joseph’s Primary, Schofields, 

Trevor Atkins said he looked forward to working with the 

Bishop again. 

“I had the pleasure of knowing Bishop Vincent many years 

ago when he was parish priest of Our Lady of the Rosary 

and I know how much he offered to Kellyville Parish and 

that he will bring the same dedication to our Diocese,” 

Trevor said. 

Schools in the Diocese joined the welcome to Bishop 

Vincent in a special video: https://youtu.be/Deqif5Nny_w 

From left: Greg Whitby, Santo Passarello, School Captain Delahoya 

Manu, Year 7 student Lucas Tabone, Very Rev Peter Williams, Vice 

Captain Ethan Koong, Senator Concetta Fierravanti -Wells and Fr 

Peter Confeggi. 

PATRICIAN Brothers’ College, Blacktown, celebrated the 

opening and blessing of its new learning spaces with a 

liturgy on 10 June. 

The $5.2 million learning spaces include the construction 

of new general learning areas and Technical and Applied 

Studies (TAS) facilities funded by the Australian 

Government through the capital grants program and 

through local contributions from the diocesan school 

building levy and fundraising at the school. 

Very Rev Peter Williams assisted by Fr Peter Confeggi 

blessed the learning spaces, which were officially opened 

by Senator Concetta Fierravanti -Wells, representing the 

Australian Government, and Executive Director of Schools 

Greg Whitby. 

Darug Elder Aunty Edna Watson gave the Welcome to 

Country. Special guests included the shadow minister 

for Citizenship and Multiculturalism Michelle Rowland, 

Member for Chifley Ed Husic, Member for Riverstone 

Kevin Connelly, Br Paul O’Keeffe FSP and Br Peter Ryan 

FSP, and Ian Baker from CEC NSW. 

Principal Santo Passarello said the new buildings would 

provide dynamic learning environments. “They allow for 

greater flexibility which, in turn, fosters collaboration and 

engagement,” he said. “Ultimately, this project has been 

about building the lives of the young men in our care.” 

Today's learners: tomorrow's leaders 

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS 

ENROLLING NOW 

Sibling discounts available. School based fees may apply. The Byallawa co-contribution scheme for 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and the Bishop Manning Scholarship Fund have 

been established for families in need of financial assistance. 

No child will be refused enrolment because of a family’s inability to afford school fees. 

@catholicedparra catholicedparra 

www.parra.catholic.edu.au 



CATHOLIC EDUCATION www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra CatholicEdParra 

Countdown to WYD 2016 

pilgrimage to Krakow 

Caroline Chisholm art 

exhibition at Penrith Regional 

Gallery until 21 August 

Financial responsibility is key 

to the future say McCarthy 

Trade Training students 

WYD pilgrims from Sacred Heart Primary, Mt Druitt (from left): 

Lynell Alimangohan, Jayme Quintano and Kate Whitton. 

FINAL PREPARATIONS are underway as more than 300 

pilgrims prepare to embark on our diocesan pilgrimage to 

Poland for World Youth Day in Krakow. 

For 100 students, 70 young teachers and a number of group 

leaders, priests and chaplains, their pilgrimage will begin 

with a Mission Encounter in the Philippines to support six 

parish projects in the Diocese of Tagbilaran, Bohol, which was 

devastated by an earthquake in 2013. 

These pilgrims will each carry donations of goods for the 

people of Tagbilaran and will be involved in preparing food for 

children, teaching, mentoring, painting, gardening, and minor 

repairs and maintenance. 

At Marian Catholic College, Kenthurst, a group of Social Justice 

students, teachers, parents and parishioners, led by teacher and 

social justice leader Meg Thomas, have been busy preparing 

their donations for the children in the Philippines through their 

charity, Sew a Smile. 

“Over the past two-and-a-half years we have sent many 

hundreds of garments around the world and are thrilled to be 

supporting the efforts of the WYD pilgrims,” Meg said. 

The clothes will be hand delivered to children living in the most 

affected areas of Bohol. 

St Bernadette’s students 

become ‘Radical Recyclers’ 

Wemor Koholo and student Madison D'Angelis at the Penrith 

Regional Gallery. 

IT IS not every day that student artwork is displayed alongside 

the work of a renowned Australian artist, but for 13 students 

from Caroline Chisholm College, Glenmore Park, it became a 

reality. 

As part of a collaborative project between members of the 

Western Sydney Liberian Lofa community, Mamre House and 

Farm, and Visual Arts students from Caroline Chisholm College, 

Years 10 and 11 students were tasked with producing an art 

project that would tell the stories of the Lofa refugee community 

through their work, which is on display at the Penrith Regional 

Gallery. 

Opened by Australia’s foremost war artist, George Gittoes, the 

exhibition uses art, artefacts, photographs and audio to reveal 

the life of Lofa refugees in Australia and to celebrate their 

culture. 

“We saw that the importance of community was so evident and 

strong among the Lofa community as they worked together 

to accomplish something great at Mamre Farm,” Year 11 

student Tia Madden said. Mamre House and Farm is a work of 

CatholicCare Social Services in the Diocese of Parramatta. 

Caroline Chisholm’s Principal, Greg Elliott, said the project 

produced real-world learning opportunities for students in 

building relationships with the Penrith Regional Gallery and 

Western Sydney Liberian Lofa community. 

“There was a special bond that developed between the students 

and the men and women from the Liberian community, which 

has resulted in exceptional artworks and friendships,” Greg said. 

Zwolowa: A Celebration of Lofa Culture and Community is on 

display at the Penrith Regional Gallery until 21 August. 

Ministers visit schools in 

lead-up to Federal Election 

Students eagerly engaged with the financial literacy presentation. 

FOR YEAR 11 Trade Training students at McCarthy Catholic 

College, Emu Plains, learning about budgeting, goal setting, 

wages and small business ideas goes hand-in-hand with their 

apprenticeships and future careers. 

For Carpentry student Corey Said, developing an understanding 

of financial responsibility is very relevant. “At the trade training 

centre, most of us already have apprenticeships and we are 

thinking about starting our own businesses,” he said. 

The students had the opportunity to learn more about this area 

through a number of financial literacy workshops held on 2 May 

and led by the Commonwealth Bank Smart Start team. 

The workshops aim to address the key skills and habits young 

people need to help them understand how money works in 

the world, and cover earning and making money, managing 

finances, and identifying opportunities to invest or donate 

money. 

St Francis of Assisi students 

speak up for Timor-Leste 

YEAR 5 students at St Francis 

of Assisi Primary, Glendenning, 

recently created a video message 

for the Australian Government 

regarding the maritime border 

issue in Timor-Leste. 

After learning about the issues 

affecting the people of Timor- 

Leste, Year 5 teacher Chris 

Boyer said his students felt 

compelled to take action and 

identified the best way to spread 

their message was through a 

video via social media. 

Year 5 student Caitlyn Dela 

Cruz voices her views. 

“Our teacher has demonstrated that if we see an issue in our 

world we have a voice that needs to be heard,” Year 5 student 

Brady Herod said. 

Student Leaders Forum 

Students at St Bernadette’s Primary on stage with the ‘Radical 

Recyclers’. 

ON 20 May, Stage 2 and 3 (Years 3-6) students from St 

Bernadette’s Primary, Lalor Park, were treated to a special 

performance from the Eaton Gorge Theatre Company as part of 

their focus to raise awareness about environmental issues. 

The production entitled Radical Recyclers is an educational 

experience aimed at developing students’ understanding of how 

recycling works, impacts of climate change, water conservation, 

and reducing carbon footprints. 

Year 6 student environmental leaders Chan Deng and Thomas 

Ross said the performance resonated because everyone recycles 

at home. 

“It was really important for our school to see this performance, 

especially for younger students to learn how to recycle properly 

early on,” Thomas said. 

“The Radical Recyclers showed us what we can and can’t recycle, 

which is really important for us to know,” Chan added. “They 

made the learning fun.” 

Bede Polding student leaders with Foreign Minister Julie Bishop. 

IN RECENT WEEKS, a number of schools have had visits from 

Members of Parliament. 

The Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, Julie Bishop, visited 

Bede Polding College, Windsor South, with the Member for 

Macquarie, Louise Markus, on 13 May. Ms Bishop met with 

student leaders, senior students and staff before speaking about 

her role as Minister for Foreign Affairs. 

On 18 May, the Minister for Education, Senator Simon 

Birmingham, visited Caroline Chisholm College, Glenmore 

Park, with the Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott, to see the 

progress students have made in Science Technology Engineering 

and Mathematics (STEM). 

The students used the opportunity to showcase their learning 

in coding and robotics as they prepare to compete in a robotics 

competition later this year. 



Student leaders meet with diocesan leaders to provide feedback 

on their Catholic schooling. 

STUDENT leaders representing systemic and congregational 

secondary schools in the Diocese of Parramatta met with the 

Diocesan Administrator Very Rev Peter Williams, Delegate of 

the Diocesan Administrator Rev Chris de Souza, and Executive 

Director of Schools Greg Whitby on 27 May. 

The meeting was an opportunity for the students to provide 

valuable feedback on spirituality and their Catholic schooling.

www.ccss.org.au 

CCSSParramatta 

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICES 

CatholicCare Parramatta and the NDIS 

COURSES & EVENTS 

What is the NDIS? 

THE NATIONAL Disability Insurance 

Scheme (NDIS) is the new way of providing 

individualised support for people with disability, 

their families and carers. 

The NDIS replaces the existing state system 

with an approach based on an entitlement to 

support people with a disability. The NDIS is 

being implemented by the National Disability 

Insurance Agency (NDIA). 

The NDIS aims to help people who have a 

disability in economic and social participation 

within the community, lifetime support, 

and empowering them with choice and control. 

The NDIS will support approximately 

460,000 Australians under the age of 65 with 

significant and permanent disability and their 

families and carers to make their own decisions 

and live the lives they want to. 

Under the NDIS, funding is assigned directly 

to the person with the disability instead 

of being allocated to service providers. This 

means there is great control over where funds 

are spent, and it provides the ability to ‘shop 

around’ to find the right provider to meet specific 

needs and wants. 

The NDIS is guided by the following 

principles: 

• People with disability have the same right 

as other members of the community to realise 

their potential; 

• People with disability, their families and 

carers should have certainty they will receive 

the care and support they need; 

• People with disability should be supported 

to exercise choice in the pursuit of their 

goals and the planning and delivery of their 

supports; and 

• The role of families and carers in the lives 

of people with disability is to be acknowledged 

and respected. 

Who is eligible for funding? 

To access assistance from the NDIS you must: 

• Need supports from a person or equipment 

to do everyday activities for themselves 

because of an impairment or condition that is 

likely to be permanent or lifelong; 

• Be aged less than 65 when you first access 

the scheme; 

• Be an Australian citizen, live in Australia 

and hold a permanent visa or hold a Protected 

Special Category Visa; or 

• Need support now to reduce support 

needs in the future (early intervention). 

CreateAbility participants Mark and Kylie with Melissa Caldwell, Disability Services 

Manager. 


Completion of the My Access Checker on 

the NDIS website will assist in determining 

whether you are eligible: www.ndis.gov.au 

What type of supports are 

included? 

The NDIS funds ‘reasonable and necessary 

supports’ that help a participant to reach their 

goals, objectives and aspirations and to undertake 

activities to enable the participant’s 

social and economic participation. 

Funded supports must: 

• Assist the participant to pursue goals, objectives 

and aspirations; 

• Assist the participant’s social and economic 

participation; 

• Represent value for money; 

• Be, or likely be, effective and beneficial for 

the participant; 

• Take into account what is reasonable to 

expect families, carers, informal networks and 

the community to provide; and 

• Be appropriate for the NDIS to fund or 

provide. 

The NDIS will not fund supports: 

• Not related to the participant’s disability; 

• Related to day-to-day living costs; and 

• Likely to cause harm to the participant or 

others. 

Some supports include: 

• Daily personal activities; 

• Transport to enable participation in community, 

social, economic and daily life activities; 

• Workplace help to allow a participant to 

successfully get or keep employment in the 

open or supported labour market; 

• Therapeutic supports including behaviour 

support; 

• Help with household tasks to allow the 

participant to maintain their home environment; 

and 

• Help to a participant by skilled personnel 

in aids or equipment assessment, set up and 

training. 

CatholicCare Social Services 

CatholicCare Social Services Diocese of Parramatta 

is a registered NDIS service provider, 

supporting people with disability to enable 

them to have the best chance to access mainstream 

opportunities and to participate fully 

in the community. 

CatholicCare provides support for employers 

at Mamre House and Farm as well as day 

support through its CreateAbility programs. 

CatholicCare can also provide supports such 

as living skills and other therapeutic supports. 

For further information about the supports 

that CatholicCare can provide please contact 

Melissa Caldwell – Disability Services Manager: 

tel (02) 9002 3197 or send an email to 

melissa.caldwell@ccss.org.au 

Responsible Gambling Support Group ̶ is free and on 

every Saturday, 9.30am-11am, CCSS Centre, 38 Prince St, 

Blacktown. Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Suicide Bereavement Support – A day to honour and 

remember those loved ones who have taken their lives. 

Saturday 16 July, 10am-4pm, St Joseph’s Centre, 64 

MacKillop Drive, Baulkham Hills. Registrations essential. 

For further information or to register, tel (02) 8822 2222, 

enquiries@ccss.org.au 

All Saints of Africa Playgroup/Mums’ Group – Thursdays 

during term time, 10am-noon, All Saints of Africa Centre, 63 

Allawah St, Blacktown. For mums with children who have 

not started primary school. Activities for children include 

craft, story time and singing plus social interaction, support 

and friendship for Mums. Tel (02) 8822 2250. 

Younger Widowed Support Group – Third Tuesday of 

each month, 7pm-9pm, Institute for Mission, 1-5 Marion 

St, Blacktown. Fee $5 per meeting. Tel (02) 8822 2222, 

soloparentservices@ccss.org.au 

Stepping Beyond – Support for those separated or divorced 

on the last Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm-9.30pm, CCSS 

Centre, 38 Prince St, Blacktown. Fee: $5 per meeting. Tel 

(02) 8822 2222, soloparentservices@ccss.org.au 

Understanding Family Law – two part seminar. 

Session 1 on Wednesday 20 July (Overview of Family Law 

Act with focus on Separation, Divorce and Children). Session 

2 on Wednesday 27 July, (Overview of the Family Law Act 

with Focus on Property). From 7.30pm-9.30pm, Institute 

for Mission, 1-5 Marion St, Blacktown. Presented by Beth 

Jarman – Accredited Family Law Specialist. Cost $7 per 

session. For further information or bookings, tel (02) 8822 

2222, soloparentservices@ccss.org.au 

Aboriginal Catholic Services – Groups include Problem 

Gambling Support Group, Tutoring Time – free 

Literacy Tutoring for Kindergarten – Yr 6, Playgroup, 

RECOVER Wellbeing Groups including Sew4Wellbeing, 

Create4Wellbeing, Dance4Wellbeing, HabitBreaking4 

Wellbeing. All groups at 254 Luxford Rd, Emerton (in Holy 

Family Parish). For further information tel (02) 9628 0084. 

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICES DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA PRESENTS 

Marriage 

Faith in 

SEMINAR 2016 

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: SOPHIE YORK 

‘the Beauty & Joy of Marriage’ 

SPEAKER: BEN SMITH 

‘the Pope Francis apostolic exhortation 

The Joy of Love (Amoris Laetitia)’ 

FRIDAY 26 AUGUST 

St Paul the Apostle Parish, 40 Buckleys Rd, Winston Hills. 

Commencing at 7.30pm and concluding with a light supper. 

Register attendance by emailing 

marriage@ccss.org.au or phone Lyn (02) 8822 2222 

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICES 

FAMILY RELATIONSHIP 

Services 

When life presents challenging personal, family or unexpected 

events, the experienced and qualified counsellors at Catholic 

Care’s Family Relationship Services are there to provide support, 

counselling and education to individuals, couples, parents and 

their children. Groups coming up include: 

KEEPING KIDS IN MIND (KKIM) 

For separated parents. 

Springwood – Thursdays 

from 28 July to 25 August; 

Blacktown – Mondays from 

8 August to 5 September. 

BRINGING UP GREAT KIDS 

For Parents on nurturing positive 

relationships with children. 

Blacktown – Tuesdays from 26 

July to 30 August. 

For further information on any of the groups, please contact 

CCSS tel (02) 8822 2222. 

NAIDOC Day Celebrations – Come celebrate our culture 

together and join in the fun. Monday 4 July, 10am-3pm, Holy 

Family Parish, 252-254 Luxford Rd, Emerton (enter via Emert 

Parade). For further information tel (02) 9628 0084. 

Houses to Homes provides transition housing and support 

for pregnant girls and young mothers aged 25 years and 

under. More information is available at www.ccss.org.au 

Mamre Garden Services – Disability enterprise, mowing, 

weeding, general gardening. Tel (02) 9670 5321. 

Cool Kids ̶ The Cool Kids Program has been running at 

Macquarie University since 1993. CatholicCare is trained 

to deliver this program, which can be of support to families 

when children are experiencing high levels of anxiety. 

Further information, tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Offices at Blacktown, Emerton, Parramatta, Penrith, Springwood, call (02) 8822 2222 



POLISH CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 

The Church is a social and faith driven hub 

By Adrian Middeldorp and 

Elizabeth McFarlane 

IN 1966, Cardinal Gilroy consecrated Our 

Lady of Czestochowa, Queen of Poland 

Catholic Church in Marayong. 

The six roof peaks of the Church represent 

the six million Polish people who were killed in 

World War II. 

In the past 50 years, the Church through the 

Society of Christ (SChr), an order devoted to the 

care of Polish migrants, has provided pastoral 

care through a connection with strong faith 

and devotional traditions through the Polish 

language. 

Half a century later, Polish Community 

Rector, Rev Henryk Zasiura SChr sees the 

community as a bridge between the ageing 

first and second generation of migrants, and 

the later generations who now speak English as 

their primary language and who are generally 

involved in their local English-speaking 

parishes. 

The Marayong church is the centre of Polish 

pastoral care, not only for the local community, 

but the entire Sydney metropolitan area. The 

chaplaincy plays a significant role in Polish 

devotional and national celebrations that often 

overlap. 

Very Rev Przemyslaw S Karasiuk SChr (Fr 

Sylvester), the Provincial of the Society of 

Christ, believes the Church is a social and faith 

driven hub for special celebrations. 

“For the meaningful dates in the Polish 

religious calendar or national calendar, they 

come here (Marayong). Special gatherings 

include Corpus Christi and Christ the King – 

the patronal feast of our Congregation. On 3 

May is the Feast of Our Lady Queen of Poland 

and Polish Constitution Day,” Fr Sylvester said. 

Celebrating traditional devotions is an 

extremely important part of the work of the 

Chaplaincy and the Polish language is the 

uniting factor to their work. 

They participate in the Litany of Loreto in 

May, devotionals to the Sacred Heart in June, 

October is the month of the Rosary and they say 

prayers for the deceased in November. 

“Polish religious tradition is tied to the 

devotions. In May, for example, Polish people 

gather by road crossings where there are small 

chapels and they pray a litany such as a litany to 

the Sacred Heart in June,” Fr Sylvester said. 

Polish celebrations include traditional dancing 

and styles of clothing that differ depending 

on regions of Poland, and include colourful 

celebrations with costumes, flowers and food. 

This year is a significant year for the Polish 

Rev Henryk Zasiura SChr and Przemyslaw S Karasiuk SChr (Fr Sylvester). 

community, not only in Sydney for the 50th 

anniversary of the church, but worldwide as it 

marks 1050 years of Christianity in Poland. 

In 966, Prince Mieszko I, ruler of the Polans, 

converted from paganism to Christianity. 

Since the establishment of the first Archdiocese 

in the year 1000, to 1978 when Karol Wojtyła (St 

John Paul II) was elected the first non-Italian 

pope in 455 years and who played an influential 

role in the downfall of communism in the 

country, the Polish story of Christianity has 

been one of both struggle and triumph. 

Its culture and Christianity are indispensable, 

as recognised by the preamble in the Polish 

constitution: 

“Beholden to our ancestors for their labors, 

their struggle for independence achieved at great 

sacrifice, for our culture rooted in the Christian 

heritage of the Nation and in universal human 

values.” 

Polish celebrations will culminate at the end 

of this month with a Papal visit to Poland, as 

Pope Francis visits Czestochowa and World 

Youth Day in Krakow. 

On 20 November, the Polish community will 

welcome Most Rev Wacław Depo, Archbishop 

of Czestochowa, who will lead the 50-year 

celebrations in Marayong. 

PHOTO ELIZABETH MCFARLANE. 

The interior of the beautiful Our Lady of Czestochowa, 

Queen of Poland Catholic Church in Marayong 

 

PHOTO: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE. 

Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy 

Penrose Park 

Fatima Day: Wednesday 13 July 

A day of prayer with our Bishop Peter Ingham! 

Exposition 10am, Holy Mass 11am, After Lunch; Procession and Devotions at 

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes 

Principal Celebrant: Most Rev Peter Ingham 

Bishop of Wollongong 

Divine Mercy Sunday: 3 July 

11am - Solemn Mass followed by 

Devotions including Chaplet of 

Divine Mercy 

Fatima Family Sunday: 17 July 

11am - Holy Mass with Renewal 

of Wedding Vows, followed by 

Devotions 

Upcoming celebrations in our shrine 

Our Lady of Mt Carmel: Saturday 16 July 

11am - Holy Mass followed by Exposition and Benediction 

Pauline Fathers’ Monastery 

Address: 120 Hanging Rock Road, Berrima, NSW, 2577 Phone: 02 4878 9192 

Email: paulinefathers@yahoo.com.au 

Website: www.penrosepark.com.au 



www.parrafamlife.org.au @parrafamlife parrafamlife 

FAMILY & LIFE 

70 years of marriage and still smiling 

By Ben Smith, 

Director of the Family & Life Office 

IN POPE FRANCIS’ recent apostolic 

exhortation, Amoris Laetitia, he used the 

image of wine to reflect the way love matures 

in marriage over time. He identified that older 

married couples “now taste the sweetness of the 

wine of love, well-aged and stored deep within 

their hearts.” (Amoris Laetitia, No. 231) 

This reality is exemplified by a couple from 

Leonay who have been married for many 

years. Victor and Ilona Holmick, my wife’s 

grandparents, celebrated their 70th wedding 

anniversary on 8 June. 

They have been parishioners of Our Lady of 

the Way Parish at Emu Plains since their arrival 

in the area in 1981. I asked the happy couple a 

few questions about their life together: 

When, where and how did you meet? 

They met in Budapest, Hungary, in September 

1945. Their lives intersected in the office of a 

mutual friend who had employed Ilona after 

World War II and had lent Victor a spare garage 

to start a business. They began courting at the 

end of 1945 and became engaged in February 

1946. They were married on 8 June 1946. 

Did you have a lavish wedding? 

Victor and Ilona had a simple wedding with a 

small circle of family and friends in attendance 

as Hungary was going through a major 

economic downturn. Each guest contributed a 

dish and some drinks for the reception. 

Ilona and Victor Holmick celebrated 70 years of married life last month. 

Did you have an eventful start to your 

marriage? 

They began their married life in a single-room 

apartment next to Ilona’s parents’ house. 

But with the changes being made by the new 

Communist Government there was little hope 

of opportunity, and personal liberties were 

being progressively curtailed. 

They decided to escape Hungary and find a 

new life. 

In December 1948, they executed a midnight 

run with the help of people smugglers to escape 

into Austria with some of their extended family 

(there were eight of them in total). 

They spent a few months in a refugee camp 

in Salzburg where they were given a choice 

between immigrating to South America or 

Australia. They opted for the latter and boarded 

a boat to Australia in June 1949. 

What was it like settling into Australia in 

1949? 

When they arrived in Australia they were sent 

to stay in an old army barracks at Bonegilla near 

Albury. They shared a bedroom with a number 

of families, separated by blankets for privacy. 

They also shared the toilet facilities and ate in 

a refectory. 

Despite these circumstances, Victor and Ilona 

were happy to make a new start in a free country. 

After an attempt at working on the northern 

Queensland canefields, the search for milder 

weather and the availability of jobs drew them 

to Sydney. For a while they lived in a tent on a 

block of land in Sutherland before building a 

makeshift three-room shed. 

How did you build a foundation for your 

family in Australia? 

They stumbled on an opportunity to buy 

a knitting machine and do some contract 

manufacturing. After a while they decided to 

try and win some other clients and eventually 

secured David Jones as their first major client. 

The family knitting business really took off 

when they moved to Tamworth to build a 

factory and they secured a lucrative contract to 

make military jumpers. 

The business moved to South Penrith in the 

early 1980s and is now run by members of the 

Holmick family with a manufacturing plant in 

Sri Lanka operated by one of their grandchildren. 

What is your legacy? 

Through all their challenges in getting settled 

into Australia their family has grown to 

include five children, 12 grandchildren and 21 

great-grandchildren. 

What have you learnt about marriage? 

Family needs to pull together when the chips are 

down. 

Husbands and wives will not always agree. But 

love conquers all things in the end if you give it 

a chance. 

To contact the diocesan Family & Life Office, 

send an email to famlife@parra.catholic.org.au 

Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy 

Coordinator/Pastoral Carer 

This is a full-time position. 

This role exists to meet the sacramental, pastoral, spiritual and social needs 

of Catholic patients, families and staff within the hospital and the pastoral 

administration of the Chaplaincy Department at Mt Druitt Hospital. 

The successful applicant will be a practising Catholic who is multifaith-abled, 

pastorally ministering to patients and staff of many faiths and none. Employed 

by the Diocese of Parramatta, you will work under the direction of the Episcopal 

Vicar for Chaplaincies. 

Applications close Friday 8 July 2016. 

Catholic Pastoral Carer 

Emu Plains Women’s Correctional Centre 

This is a full-time position. 

Prison Pastoral Carers are appointed to serve the needs and best interests of the 

inmates and staff. The role exists to meet the sacramental, pastoral, spiritual and 

social needs of all inmates and staff and for those of all religions and none. Emu 

Plains Correctional Centre is a minimum security institution for women on Old 

Bathurst Road, Emu Plains. 

Diocesan Development Fund 

Catholic Diocese of Parramatta 

Supporting the 

growing needs of the 

institutions and agencies within 

the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta 

www.parra.catholic.org.au/ddf 

Employed by the Diocese of Parramatta you will work under the direction of 

the Episcopal Vicar for Chaplaincies and in accordance with relevant diocesan 

policies and protocols and policies of the Department of Corrective Services. 

Applications close Friday 8 July 2016. 

For further details about these positions please visit 

DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA’S WEBSITE 

http://parracatholic.org/employment/ 

Disclosure Statement 

The Diocesan Development Fund Catholic Diocese of Parramatta (DDF) is not subject to the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved 

by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. 

Deposits with the DDF are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a company established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. 

We welcome your investment with the DDF rather than with a profit oriented commercial organisation as a conscious commitment by you to support the Charitable, 

Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church. 

Neither the DDF nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Parramatta are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority; 

contributions to the DDF do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; the DDF is designed for investors who wish to promote 

the charitable purposes of the DDF. 



YEAR OF MERCY 

Way of Mercy 

Update 

By Richard McMahon, Director of 

Pastoral Planning & Implementation 

MOMENTUM is building for the Way 

of Mercy, involving the journey of the 

Cross and Relics around our Diocese 

from August through to November. We are 

grateful to everyone who has already engaged 

in this diocesan initiative via your prayers, ideas, 

questions and other feedback. 

There has been a fantastic response from our 

Catholic systemic schools. Each school is willing 

to host the Cross and Relics, and our Catholic 

schools are committed to engaging in the 

Regional Parish Celebrations. 

Interest has been expressed by those in the 

fields of university, healthcare, youth and care of 

the environment. An itinerary is being finalised 

and will be released soon. 

We will be in touch to provide support and 

assistance as we journey together in our Year of 

Mercy through the love of our God. 

Frequently asked questions can be 

viewed at: http://www.mercyhasaface.org. 

au/#!get-involved/zqrr9 

Mid-term review for Diocesan Pastoral Plan 

We are nearing the halfway point for our 

Diocesan Pastoral Plan, Faith in Our Future. It 

is an opportunity to pause, give thanks to God 

for what has been achieved, and to consider the 

way forward. 

The Pastoral Planning Office will be in 

contact with all agencies, services, parishes and 

chaplaincies over the coming weeks to seek 

feedback on progress to date, and input into 

what is needed going forward as we seek to 

grow our faith and share our faith in Jesus Christ. 

Should you have any questions or comments 

regarding this upcoming review, please contact 

our office: pastoralplanning@parra.catholic.org. 

au 

Thank you for your own work in bringing to life 

the vision and goals of Faith in Our Future. 

Journey of 

the Cross 

and Relics 

A 

MERCY CROSS provided 

by the Parish of Richmond 

and Relics of St Mary of the 

Cross MacKillop and Blessed Teresa 

of Calcutta will journey around our 

Diocese from August through to 

November. 

Mercy Cross 

In 1990, the Redemptorists came to 

Richmond Parish to give a mission 

where they engaged the interest and 

imagination of parishioners. The focal 

point of the mission was a large cross, 

built by the late Paul Krupner, which 

was central to the prayers of the faithful. 

On Good Friday each year it is carried 

into St Monica’s Church at the time of 

adoration of the cross. This action has 

touched the lives of many over the years 

and has brought a realism to what Jesus 

did for us. 

The parish is delighted to share 

this precious symbol of faith with the 

Diocese. 

Message from Mother Teresa 

Fr Paul Roberts EV has provided the 

relics of Blessed Mother Teresa. The 

message was hand written by her in 

January 1986. 

Fr Paul was visiting India that year, 

before he was a priest, and met Mother 

Teresa and her Missionaries of Charity 

at the home for the dying in Kolkata. 

He asked if she would write a message 

for his students at Gilroy Catholic 

College, Castle Hill, where he was a 

teacher. 

After she wrote the message, Mother 

Teresa smiled and chuckled, surprisingly 

asking: "Paul, would you also like my 

business card?’" She hurried from the 

room and returned with the small card, 

now faded. The card reads: 

The Fruit of Silence is Prayer 

The Fruit of Prayer is Faith 

The Fruit of Faith is Love 

The Fruit of Love is Service 

www.mercyhasaface.org.au 

Once Blessed Mother Teresa is 

canonised on 4 September, this written 

piece and card will classify as secondclass 

relics. 

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop 

Following her canonisation in 2010, the 

Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart 

provided the Diocese with a relic that is 

a strand of Mary MacKillop’s hair. 

Mary is our diocesan patron and the 

Diocese has a special connection to 

Australia’s only recognised saint. Blue 

Mountains woman Veronica Hopson 

#mercyhasaface 

St Patrick’s Cathedral has provided the relic of St Mary MacKillop. PHOTO: ELIZABETH MCFARLANE. 

Above: Fr Paul Roberts has provided the 

relics of Mother Teresa. Left: Richmond 

Parish has provided the Mercy Cross. 

developed acute myeloblastic leukaemia 

in the early 1960s. 

Her complete recovery, without 

scientific explanation and through 

prayers to Mary MacKillop, was the 

miracle accepted by the Vatican in 1993 

which led to Mary’s beatification in 

1995. 

Mary worked in the community, 

reaching out to the poor to raise them 

up through the service of education. 

Upper Blue Mountains Parish is 

named for St Mary of the Cross. 

Eighteen diocesan schools have close 

links to Mary MacKillop. 

theLMent.com 

Our retired Priests have always been a part of 

your FAMILY, 

in your celebrations, unions, 

happiness & sadness 

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA CLERGY SUPPORT FOUNDATION 

In their retirement, 

they can still remain a part of your 

FAMILY 

CARING FOR THOSE WHO CARED 

Please support our sick and 

retired Priests through the Clergy 

Support Foundation. 

Donations are welcome at any 

time – amounts of $2 or more are 

tax deductible. 

If you are preparing or changing 

a Will you may consider 

bequeathing a donation to the 

Foundation. 

For more information please call 

(02) 9639 0598 or donate online 

at www.parra.catholic.org.au 



www.mercyhasaface.org.au 

#mercyhasaface 

YEAR OF MERCY 

Priests as learners and receivers 

By Rev Paul Roberts, 

Episcopal Vicar for Evangelisation 

and Pastoral Planning 

In the video, the seven priests who give a brief 

testimony about the mercy theme do so as learners 

and receivers; as people who have learned and 

continue to learn of God’s mercy. 

‘We are called to show mercy 

because mercy has first been 

shown to us’ 

THESE ARE the words of Pope Francis 

in his specially written background 

document that introduced us to the 

Jubilee Year of Mercy. The document is entitled 

Misericordiwae Vultus, or in English, The Face of 

Mercy. It can be downloaded in full and contains 

some very helpful perspectives. 

If we were in Rome during this year, we would 

see that a key way that a Jubilee Year is marked 

is to have Jubilees for various groups throughout 

the year. These provide a special focus on each 

such group according to the theme of the Holy 

Year; in this case, God’s gift and call of mercy. 

As one of the many expressions in the Diocese 

of Parramatta during the Year of Mercy, the 

Institute for Mission has produced a small 

video, just several minutes long, picking up on 

Rome’s idea of the jubilee for particular groups. 

The video is being made available through 

websites, YouTube, disc and usb. It has a focus 

on priests, but perhaps not quite in the way that 

some might first expect. 

The Greek word from which we translate 

'disciple' refers to a learner or student, rather 

than to a teacher. And in our diocesan video, 

the seven priests shown who each give a very 

brief testimony about the mercy theme, do so 

as learners and receivers; as people who have 

learned and continue to learn of God’s mercy 

through the blessing and witness of the people 

they serve in ministry. 

There are stories of regular parishioners and 

others negotiating the burdens and challenges of 

life that in this video message are presented as 

the teachers to the priests. 

Pope Francis reminds us that our call as 

Christian disciples to show mercy in the world 

is not something that we simply do off our own 

bat, or as a responsibility that stands alone. 

Rather, it is because God first offers us this 

unconditional gift. 

And one of the ways God expresses the gift is 

through the lives of other people as the priests in 

the video clearly attest. 

As a Jubilee of Priests expression in the Year 

of Mercy, this video is, in fact, more like a jubilee 

of humanity as a precious channel of God. 

I’m sure I speak for all the priests of the 

Diocese in giving thanks for the very many 

people who continue to teach us and whose lives 

continue to move us! 

As a priest, I’ve lost count of how many times 

I’ve stopped and pinched myself; pinched myself 

and asked why it is that I am standing here 

expressing Christ’s healing presence and love 

in the Eucharist or ministering divine grace in 

Reconciliation; why am I doing this when the 

lives of so many among whom I minister have 

so much to teach me? 

Rather than pick from the many things I 

continue to wonder about, I’ll simply say thank 

you on my own behalf and on behalf of my 

brother priests and repeat Pope Francis’ words 

to us all: "We are called to show mercy because 

mercy has first been shown to us." 

You’ll find the video at our diocesan Year of 

Mercy website mercyhasaface.org.au or at the 

Institute for Mission website ifm.org.au 

ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL 

MASS TIMES AND REGULAR SERVICE 

Weekend Masses 

Saturday 8am, 9:30am 

(Mass in the Extraordinary Form – Latin), 

6pm (Vigil) Sunday 8am, 9.30am (Family 

Mass), 11am (Solemn Mass), 6pm 

Weekday Masses 

Monday to Friday 6.45am,12.30pm 

Public Holidays 8am 

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament 

Monday to Friday 11.15am-12.20pm 

First Friday of the month 6pm-7pm 

Sacrament of Penance 

Weekdays 11.15am-12.20pm 

Saturdays 8.30am-9am, 5pm-5.30pm 

Devotions 

Morning Prayer of the Church 

Monday to Friday 6.30am 

Saturday and Sunday 7.30am 

Angelus 

Monday to Friday noon 

Rosary 

Monday to Friday after Angelus at noon 

Canticle of Our Lady’s Marian Movement 

Friday 1pm 

Christian meditation 

Tuesday 9.30am-10.15am 

Baptism - Sunday 12.45pm by appointment 

Marriages - By appointment 

Contact the Parish Secretary 

tel (02) 8839 8400 or email 

1 Marist Place, Parramatta 

KENTHURST 

TABLE TALK 

Friday 22 July, 

6.30pm-8.30pm 

We aim to have a new 

conversation about 

asylum seekers, focused 

on respect, relationship, 

story and values. 

By the end of our time 

together we want to: 

• Hear the story of an 

asylum seeker as we 

share our common 

values; 

• Identify potential new 

leaders and foster action 

for our mission; and 

• Ask questions and hear 

input from an expert in 

the area of refugees and 

asylum seekers. 

RSVP to: Lmckeogh@ 

parra.catholic.org.au 



DIOCESAN NEWS 

Marian Nursing Home now part of Southern Cross Care 

THE DIOCESE of Parramatta 

is selling its sole residential 

aged care facility, Marian 

Nursing Home, to Southern Cross 

Care (NSW & ACT), effective 1 

September 2016. 

To ensure the long-term 

sustainability of Marian Nursing 

Home and due to the rapidly 

changing nature of the aged 

care sector – including ageing 

population demographics and 

evolving industry regulation – it 

was deemed beneficial for the home 

to be part of a larger network. 

Most aged care providers operate 

multiple facilities and benefit 

from the scale of their operations, 

including greater financial stability. 

It is also in the best care interests 

of the residents that Marian Nursing 

Home be transitioned to a larger 

aged care provider. 

Young altar 

servers a great 

blessing 

By David Baker 

PADRE PIO Parish, Glenmore Park, 

experienced a great blessing on 5 

June with the presentation of 23 

new young altar servers representing the 

community. 

They brought an energy that was heart 

lifting for those who helped with the 

training, their families and the greater 

Catholic community of Glenmore Park. 

The presentation was part of the parish’s 

9.30am Sunday Mass, expressing their 

commitment and passion to be an active 

part of the parish. 

The Parish Administrator, Rev Chris 

Antwi-Boasiako, organised and led a 

beautiful liturgy that was engaging not 

only for the new altar servers, but also their 

families and friends. It was an inspirational 

service that highlighted both our Catholic 

faith and the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Such a liturgy and the weeks of training 

Thursday 21 July 2016 

Holy Hour for Vocations 

The sale to Southern Cross Care 

(NSW & ACT), a not-for-profit 

organisation, was based on the 

premise of looking for other faithbased 

organisations to purchase the 

facility, ideally shifting from one 

Catholic organisation to another. 

This transition will help ensure 

the facility maintains its unique 

Christian character and heritage. 

Marian Nursing Home employees 

will also benefit from the move 

to a larger, established provider, 

with opportunities for greater role 

diversity and choice. 

At the signing were (standing): 

Very Rev John Hogan and Geoff 

Officer, Chief of Operations & Finance; 

(seated) Very Rev Peter Williams VG 

EV and Mr Paul McMahon, CEO of 

Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT). 

 

PHOTO: ADRIAN MIDDELDORP. 

St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta 

These young people are actively engaged with their parish. 

could not have been successful without 

the leadership and support of Fr Chris, 

the invaluable assistance of Sr Mary 

Louise Walsh ISSM, who assisted with 

our training and linked the young people 

of the parish to the diocese, and Sr Luka 

Juenemann ISSM, who graciously assisted 

with our training and support over several 

weeks. 

A big thank you to parishioner Mary 

Catania, who made new albs for the altar 

servers and had the honour of presenting 

them to the young people during the 

ceremony. 

Confirming our 

understanding 

of Confirmation 

By Adelle Lobo 

NEW EDITIONS of the Order of 

Confirmation and the Order of 

Celebrating Matrimony came into 

use in Australia in February this year. 

Two professional development seminars 

for clergy, religious education coordinators 

(RECs) and parish sacramental coordinators 

took place at St Joseph's Retreat Centre in 

Baulkham Hills on 15 and 29 June. 

The seminars were led by Prof Clare 

Johnson, Director of the Centre for Liturgy at 

Australian Catholic University (ACU), who 

explored current official Church teaching on 

these sacraments in theory and in practice. 

More than 200 participants attended from 

the dioceses of Parramatta and Broken Bay, 

and the Archdiocese of Sydney. 

Copies of the Order of Confirmation and 

the Order of Celebrating Matrimony can 

be purchased from St Pauls Books & Gifts 

Centre, 238 Church St, Parramatta, or online: 

http://www.stpauls.com.au/book-centre 

Everyone is welcome to join the Holy Hour for Vocations from 

7pm-8pm on the 3rd Thursday of each month for an hour of 

adoration, prayer, music and quiet time in the Blessed Sacrament 

Chapel in St Patrick’s Cathedral. 

To find out more about priesthood in the Diocese of Parramatta 

contact Fr Warren Edwards, Director of Priestly Vocations 

tel 0409 172 700 or email vocations@parra.catholic.org.au 



Celebrating Pentecost Sunday 

By Barbara Stenning & Neville Fernandes 

Colourful flags carried in the entry procession reflect the diversity of CCR. 

A 

JOYFUL CELEBRATION In his homily, Fr David said that 

of the Feast of Pentecost the Catholic Charismatic Renewal 

took place on Sunday 15 was often seen as a fringe group in 

May at Our Lady Queen of Peace 

the Church, but he encouraged the 

Parish, Greystanes. Prayer and 

Covenant Communities from the 

people by saying that the Pope sees 

dioceses of Parramatta, Broken them as being “at the heart of what 

Bay and Wollongong and the the Holy Spirit is doing”. 

Archdiocese of Sydney came He reminded them of the “call to 

together for a time of grace and holiness” and how we are called to 

renewal. 

be saints, doing marvellous things, 

Before the Mass, prayer and 

using the spiritual gifts. 

praise was led by the Music 

Ministry of St John XXIII Parish, 

After Mass there was a BBQ 

Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens. hosted by the Community of the 

The entry procession included Risen Lord and it was a time to meet 

colourful flags. 

old friends and members of other 

Rev David Callaghan was the prayer groups and communities. 

principal celebrant for the Mass, About 400 people adjourned to 

which was concelebrated by Rev 

the school hall for a time of prayer 

Paul Marshall, Parish Priest of 

Greystanes, Rev Paul Glynn SM, 

and praise led by the Catholic 

Rev Zakaria Gayed and Rev Kene Korean music ministry from 

Onwukwe. 

Silverwater. 

Reflecting the diversity of the The afternoon concluded with a 

Renewal, representatives from time of prayer ministry and gentle 

various Charismatic Renewal music. 

groups and communities assisted 

Thanks to the Emmaus Prayer 

in the liturgy through proclaiming 

the Word, leading the Universal 

Community with Catholic 

Prayer in various languages and in Charismatic Renewal NSW for the 

bringing the gifts to the altar in the preparation and hosting of this 

offertory. 

annual event for the past 40 years. 

5 

21 

22 

22-24 

29 

30 

15 

JULY CALENDAR 

NEWS & EVENTS 

CONCERT BY CHAPEL CHOIR OF CHRIST’S COLLEGE, 

CAMBRIDGE 

As part of its Australian tour, the Chapel Choir of Christ’s College, Cambridge, will perform in St 

Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 July. The choir will perform a program 

of English and European choral works. Tickets: $25 full price & $20 concession available at the 

door – cash and EFTPOS payment options. 

HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS 

Everyone is welcome to join the Holy Hour for Vocations from 7pm-8pm for adoration, prayer, 

music and quiet time in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Plc, 

Parramatta. 

KENTHURST TABLE TALK 

Join a new conversation about asylum seekers, focused on respect, relationship, story and 

values. By the end of our time together we want to: hear the story of an asylum seeker as we 

share our common values, identify potential new leaders and foster action for our mission, ask 

questions and hear input from an expert in the area of refugees and asylum seekers. From 

6.30pm-8.30pm at St Madeleine’s Parish, 28 Annangrove Rd, Kenthurst. For more information 

contact Sr Louise McKeogh FMA, Social Justice Coordinator, lmckeogh@parra.catholic.org.au 

RACHEL'S VINEYARD HEALING RETREAT 

This weekend retreat is designed to bring psychological and spiritual healing to anyone who 

has been affected by an abortion experience including women, men, couples and grandparents. 

Rachel's Vineyard Ministries Australia is supported by the Australian Catholic Bishops 

Conference. Confidential inquiries: tel or SMS 0400 092 555, info@rachelsvineyard.org.au 

For more information visit: www.rachelsvineyard.org.au 

THE CHURCH IN THE WORLD 

Prof Richard Lennan renowned speaker and author, will address issues such as Church mission, 

ministry, and ecumenism under the care and guidance of Pope Francis and explore the ‘church in 

the world’, as described in Vatican II. Presented by The Broken Bay Institute tel (02) 9847 0030. 

Register at http://www.bbi.catholic.edu.au/news-events/Events 

THE NATURE OF CHANGE IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH: 

ECCLESIOLOGY, VATICAN II AND THE VISION OF POPE FRANCIS 

Assoc Prof Massimo Faggioli is a theologian, political scientist, church historian and papal expert. 

He and Prof Richard Lennan will deliver a study on the leadership of Pope Francis from their 

own interpretation; exploring the possibilities and limits for change in the Church. Presented 

by The Broken Bay Institute tel (02) 9847 0030. Register at http://www.bbi.catholic.edu.au/ 

news-events/Events 

AUGUST CALENDAR 

LITURGICAL MINISTRY FORMATION COURSE 

This course begins with a Compulsory Introductory Session on Monday 15 August. Participants 

continue with the two-week course of their choice: Ministers of the Word, Extraordinary 

Ministers of Communion, Communion to the Sick and Dying. Conducted at the Diocesan 

Assembly Centre, 1-5 Marion St, Blacktown, on Mondays, commencing at 7pm. Applications 

close 7 August. Register with the Office for Worship: ofw@ifm.org.au 

For more events please go to: http://catholicoutlook.org/event/ 

RACHEL'S VINEYARD HEALING RETREAT 

FROM FRIDAY 22 TO SUNDAY 24 JULY 

Rachel mourns her children; 

she refuses to be consoled 

because her children are no more. 

Thus says the Lord: 

Cease your cries of mourning. 

Wipe the tears from your eyes. 

The sorrow you have shown 

shall have its reward. 

There is hope for your future. 

(Jer 31:15-17) 

THIS WEEKEND retreat in Sydney 

is designed to bring psychological 

and spiritual healing to anyone who 

has been affected by an abortion 

experience including women, men, 

couples and grandparents. 

Rachel's Vineyard Ministries Australia 

is supported by the Australian Catholic 

Bishops Conference. 

Confidential inquiries: 

Tel or SMS 0400 092 555 

info@rachelsvineyard.org.au 

For more information visit: 

www.rachelsvineyard.org.au 

“The most beautiful 

and visually 

compelling film 

I have ever seen. I did 

not want it to end.” 

Kim, Brisbane. 

Filmed and Edited by 

Michael Luke Davies 

A unique inside portrait of 

the world of the Tyburn Nuns. 

“This film takes you into 

another realm…” 

What is life in a cloistered Benedictine 

community really like? Let the Tyburn 

Nuns take you to their 9 monasteries 

around the world. Witness the nuns’ holy 

life of prayer and work, centred on the 

Eucharist, in this remarkable film. 

ORDER ONLINE: 

www.tyburnconvent.org.uk 

or send cheque/money order for $25 

payable to: 

Tyburn Priory, 325 Garfield Road East 

RIVERSTONE NSW 2765 

Name ........................................................ 

.................................................................. 

Address ..................................................... 

.................................................................. 

.................................................................. 

..................................................................

Catholic Outlook July 2016

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