Catholic Outlook May 2016

CatholicOutlook 

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

VOLUME 19, MAY 2016 | Photo: Alphonsus Fok 

Fr Robert Galea 

in concert 

‘Child of God first, 

‘priest second and 

‘musician third' 

page 5 

KIMBERLEY 

CALLING: 

INDIGENOUS 

COMMUNITY 

‘LIKE FAMILY’ TO 

TEACHER ALICE 

page 16-17 

30TH 

ANNIVERSARY 

OF OUR DIOCESE 

ESTABLISHED BY 

POPE JOHN PAUL II

FROM THE DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR 

Very Rev Peter G Williams 

CONTENTS 

CATHOLIC YOUTH 

NEWS & EVENTS 

DIOCESAN NEWS 

SOCIAL JUSTICE 

FAMILY & LIFE 

3 

4 

5, 9 

6 

7 

Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

DIOCESAN PASTORAL 

PLAN 

8 

The recent publication of the apostolic 

exhortation by Pope Francis, arising 

from the Synod on the Family, has 

received considerable attention in both Church 

and secular media. 

With that coverage has come a vast range 

of possible interpretations of the document 

and the consequences for those of us who are 

members of the Church. 

What is clear, however, is that the Holy 

Father is seeking to reach out to a wide 

audience and, in particular, to married couples 

and their families. 

In fact, in the opening sections of Amoris 

Laetitia, The Joy of Love: On Love in the 

Family, he identifies that some chapters will be 

of greater interest to some rather than others. 

As I read and reflected on the exhortation 

(which is, by the usual standards, very long) 

I was very moved by Chapter IV, which 

addresses Love in Marriage. 

This part of the exhortation, which runs 

from paragraph 89 to paragraph 164, is a ‘must 

read’ for every married couple as the Pope uses 

the familiar passage from 1 Corinthians 13 to 

reflect on the meaning of love in the context of 

a committed relationship. 

To that end, I would encourage married 

couples (and those engaged and planning to be 

married) to read this chapter and discuss how 

you see Pope Francis’ understanding of love in 

the context of your own experience. 

There is much else to ‘The Joy of Love’ and 

no doubt there will be much written about it 

and made available over the coming months 

through the diocesan Family & Life Office, 

Institute for Mission and CatholicCare Social 

Services. As they say: “Watch this space!” 

As you all know, there has been a great 

deal of discussion in recent years about 

the notion of the family: what constitutes a 

family, different ways of being a family and, 

more recently, considerable discussion on the 

question of marriage, what it means, and who 

can and should be married? 

ORDAINED MINISTRY 

OF THE 

PERMANENT 

DIACONATE 

The Pope very clearly presents an 

understanding of Christian marriage and 

family that is consistent with Church teaching 

over many centuries and which owes its origin 

to God’s plan for human beings. 

There is nothing new here, but it is 

a classical restatement of what had been 

revealed through the mystery of God’s action 

in creation, and the pinnacle of creation being 

man and woman made in the image and 

likeness of God. (Genesis 1) 

But the Pope readily acknowledges that 

many families are not perfect and as he quite 

frequently remarks, we are often faced with 

messy situations which require a sensitive and 

pastoral heart in dealing with the lived reality 

of families in a whole variety of situations. 

It is important that at the parish level we 

appreciate that there needs to be an outreach 

to families that is not condemnatory but 

accepting of where people are and assisting 

them to find the presence of God, even if the 

ideal is not easily attainable. 

The Church sets before us the ideal of 

Christian marriage to which couples are 

earnestly asked to aspire. But Pope Francis is 

also quick to point out that because the ideal is 

not reached, that means that people are neither 

condemned nor cast aside because of human 

failure. 

In this Year of Mercy it is a timely 

reminder to us all that sometimes we can be 

quick to judge and condemn others without 

being in receipt of all the facts. 

Ours is a mission of mercy in the name of 

Jesus Christ who condemned no one except 

those religious people who were filled with 

hypocrisy. The Pope says on that score that the 

Church needs to engage in some healthy form 

of self-criticism. 

But above all, this document is challenging 

all of us in the Church – laity, religious, 

deacons, priests and bishops – to think in a 

different way when approaching the subject of 

marriage and the family. 

Of one thing I am sure, it will take some 

time to unpack the contents and to understand 

the ramifications for future pastoral outreach. 

Does this mean that ‘The Joy of Love’ is the 

last word on the subject? I think not, but rather 

a beginning point as the Church adjusts to the 

age in which we find ourselves. 

One of the most enduring characteristics 

of this time is the speed of change to so many 

elements of life. For some that is exhilarating 

and for others frightening. 

Pope Francis carefully anchors us in the 

teaching of the Church about marriage and 

family, but also confronts us with the truth 

about our circumstances today. 

In the community of the Church let us 

pray for all our families, no matter what their 

circumstance, and that we may show in our 

lives the merciful face of Christ to others. 

With greetings in this season of the Risen 

Lord, 


Diocesan Administrator 

Ordination of 

GEORGE BRYAN 

Solemnity of the Ascension 

11am Mass on Sunday 8 May 2016 

Admission to Candidacy of 

RODRIGO RUPAC 

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity 

11am Mass on Sunday 22 May 2016 

St Patrick's Cathedral 

1 Marist Place, Parramatta 

www.stpatscathedral.com.au 

PARISH PROFILE 

CATHOLIC EDUCATION 

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL 

SERVICES 

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF 

DIOCESE 

DIOCESAN WORKS FUND 

APPEAL 

KOREAN CATHOLIC 

COMMUNITY 

NEWS & EVENTS 

INTERFAITH 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

CatholicOutlook 

The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta 

Publisher: 


Diocesan Administrator 

Tel (02) 8838 3400 

Fax (02) 9630 4813 

PO Box 3066, 

North Parramatta, NSW, 1750 

Email: diocese@parra.catholic.org.au 

Website: www.parracatholic.org 

Editor: 

Jane Favotto 

Tel (02) 8838 3409 

editor@parra.catholic.org.au 

PO Box 3066, 

North Parramatta, NSW, 1750 

Journalists: 

Adrian Middeldorp 

Elizabeth McFarlane 

Designer: 

Sarah Falzon 

School news: 

Catholic Education Office 

Tel (02) 9840 5609 

news@parra.catholic.edu.au 

Deadlines: 

Editorial and advertising 

– 10th of the month prior to publication 

Advertising: 

Tel (02) 8838 3409 

Accounts: 

Alfie Ramirez 

Tel (02) 8838 3437 

ARamirez@parra.catholic.org.au 

Printing: 

Rural Press Printing, North Richmond 

10-11 

12-14 

15 

16-17 

18-19 

20 

21 

22 

23 

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 | MAY 2016 

www.catholicoutlook.org

DIOCESAN NEWS 

No one can enter 

into the presence 

of God and stay 

the same 

By Adrian Middeldorp 

Fr Rob Galea captivates the audience at Riverside Parramatta. Photos: Alphonsus Fok. 

of God first, priest second and 

musician third.” This is how Fr 

“Child 

Rob Galea described himself to a 

sell-out audience at Riverside Theatre on Friday 

8 April, as part of Catholic Youth Parramatta’s 

LIFTED Live! series. 

It was no ordinary concert, but rather a 

journey of story and music, sharing the Gospel 

and giving hope and encouragement to the 

audience. A thoroughly captivated audience 

shared in a rich tapestry of emotions, at times 

shedding tears and at other times, rejoicing. 

The message of redemption was one that 

Fr Rob weaved into his music throughout the 

evening. His understanding of the complexities 

of youth culture is evidenced by his engagement 

with thousands of followers on social media, 

spreading the simple message of the love of 

Jesus. 

For many, Fr Rob is an enigma. For the 

everyday Catholic, there is the paradox of a 

diocesan Catholic priest appearing on X Factor 

and selling tens of thousands of albums, but 

for the modern world, there is the irony of a 

talented and affable performer, content with his 

life as a priest, ministering in country Victoria. 

Fr Rob was first thrust on to the world stage 

when, as a seminarian, he had moved from 

Malta to Australia and was asked to perform in 

front of hundreds of thousands of young people 

and TV audiences in the millions at World 

Youth Day 2008 in Sydney. 

The request came from Fr Peter Williams, 

the Director of Liturgy for the 2008 World 

Youth Day, now Diocesan Administrator of the 

Diocese of Parramatta. 

“At the time, I was quite introverted, quite 

scared, and unable to speak in public and yet I 

had this opportunity to sing with Guy Sebastian, 

Paulini and other great artists,” he said. 

He credits Fr Peter’s belief in him to be 

able to perform in front of the half-millionstrong 

crowd: “Fr Peter Williams believed in 

me when I was so scared, when I didn’t have 

the experience I have today.” Despite Fr Rob’s 

experience on stage, he still gets nervous before 

a performance. 

The message of confronting your fears 

through adversity and the message of seeking 

simplicity in life’s complexities resonates with 

his younger audience. 

“I always get scared. I am terrified. One of 

my mottos is: ‘Rob if you’re scared, so what? Do 

it scared!’ So I move forward in my fear and I 

trust God. Even if I mess up. I just want to bring 

who I am. My team and I bring ourselves as we 

are, mess and all, just to point to Jesus,” he said. 

His team has some of the most accomplished 

musicians in the country, including Gary Pinto, 

singer-songwriter for Jessica Mauboy, vocal 

coach on the hit TV show X-Factor and lead 

singer of 90s band CDB. 

Also in the band is Gary’s wife, Natasha 

Pinto, a former backup singer for Boyz II Men, 

and guitarist Isaac Moran, who plays for Guy 

Sebastian. 

“Each person on the team loves Jesus. They 

love God and they love to serve others,” Fr Rob 

said. 

Fr Rob and his band hope to bring a simple 

message to their performances: “We hope to 

encourage young people and encourage people 

who are not so young to continue on their walk 

with God. 

“And for those who don’t know God, we hope 

that they catch a glimpse of who and what God 

is, because if they get a glimpse of God, they will 

be changed forever because no one can enter 

into the presence of God and stay the same.” 

For a full photo album, go to: 

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

Twilight Tours & 

Course Info Evening 

Wed 8 & Thur 9 June 5-7pm 

140 Broadway, Chippendale 

Arts & Sciences | Business | Education | Law | Medicine* | Nursing | Philosophy & Theology | Pathways 

Discover why Notre Dame is one of the highest rated universities in Australia. 

Notre Dame will be open for extended hours to assist you with course information. 

One of 

the highest 

graduate 

employment 

rates: 82% 

qilt.edu.au 

Register now notredame.edu.au 

Fremantle 

Broome 

Sydney 

*Applications for the School of Medicine are now closed for 2016 | ND1892D | CRICOS PROVIDER CODE: 01032F 

www.catholicoutlook.org 

CatholicOutlook | MAY 2016 3

NEWS & EVENTS 

Pope Francis accompanies 

refugees to Rome 

Pope Francis greets the Syrian refugee families on landing at Rome's Ciampino airport. Photo: Filippo Monteforte/Pool Photo via AP. 

When Pope Francis flew back to Rome 

after a visit to the Greek island of 

Lesbos on 16 April, he accompanied 

three families of refugees from Syria, 12 people 

in all, including six children. 

These Muslim families were living in camps 

on Lesbos. Two families come from Damascus 

and one from Deir Azzor, in the area occupied 

by Daesh. Their homes had been bombed. 

The Vatican will take responsibility for 

bringing in and maintaining the families. The 

initial hospitality will be taken care of by the 

Sant'Egidio Community. 

While on Lesbos, the Holy Father met 

with the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew 

and Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and 

All Greece in the Mòria refugee camp, which 

accommodates about 2500 people seeking 

asylum. 

In the camp, they signed a joint declaration 

calling on political leaders to employ every 

means to ensure that individuals and 

communities remain in their homelands and 

enjoy the fundamental right to live in peace and 

security. 

In the camp, Pope Francis said: 

"I have wanted to be with you today. I 

want to tell you that you are not alone. In these 

weeks and months, you have endured much 

suffering in your search for a better life. Many 

of you felt forced to flee situations of conflict 

and persecution for the sake, above all, of your 

children, your little ones. 

“You have made great sacrifices for your 

families. You know the pain of having left 

behind everything that is dear to you and – 

what is perhaps most difficult – not knowing 

what the future will bring. Many others like you 

are also in camps or towns, waiting, hoping to 

build a new life on this continent. 

"I have come here with my brothers, 

Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop 

Ieronymos, simply to be with you and to hear 

your stories. We have come to call the attention 

of the world to this grave humanitarian crisis 

and to plead for its resolution. 

“As people of faith, we wish to join our 

voices to speak out on your behalf. We hope 

that the world will heed these scenes of tragic 

and indeed desperate need, and respond in a 

way worthy of our common humanity. 

"God created mankind to be one family; 

when any of our brothers and sisters suffer, we 

are all affected. We all know from experience 

how easy it is for some to ignore other people’s 

suffering and even to exploit their vulnerability. 

“But we also know that these crises can 

bring out the very best in us. You have seen this 

among yourselves and among the Greek people, 

who have generously responded to your needs 

amid their own difficulties. You have also seen 

it in the many people, especially the young 

from throughout Europe and the world, who 

have come to help you. 

“Yes, so much more needs to be done! But 

let us thank God that in our suffering He never 

leaves us alone. There is always someone who 

can reach out and help us. 

"This is the message I want to leave with 

you today: do not lose hope! The greatest gift 

we can offer one another is love: a merciful 

look, a readiness to listen and understand, a 

word of encouragement, a prayer. May you 

share this gift with one another. 

“We Christians love to tell the story of the 

Good Samaritan, a foreigner who saw a man in 

need and immediately stopped to help. For us, 

it is a story about God’s mercy, which is meant 

for everyone, for God is the All-Merciful. It is 

also a summons to show that same mercy to 

those in need. 

“May all our brothers and sisters on this 

continent, like the Good Samaritan, come to 

your aid in the spirit of fraternity, solidarity 

and respect for human dignity that has 

distinguished its long history. 

"Dear brothers and sisters, may God bless 

all of you and, in a special way, your children, 

the elderly and all those who suffer in body and 

spirit! 

"I embrace all of you with affection. Upon 

you, and those who accompany you, I invoke 

His gifts of strength and peace." 

CLERGY CONFERENCE 

The priests and deacons of the Diocese 

will gather for a Clergy Conference from 

Monday 23 May to Thursday 26 May. 

During this time, our priests will be away 

from their parishes. Anyone in urgent 

need of a priest should contact their 

parish office. 

Normal Mass times in parishes may 

be suspended on Tuesday 24 May, 

Wednesday 25 May and Thursday 26 

May. On these days, it is hoped to have a 

Mass in each deanery. 

At the time this issue of Catholic Outlook 

went to press, the following deanery 

Masses had been confirmed: 

HAWKESBURY DEANERY 

Mary Immaculate Parish, Quakers Hill: 

8.30am on Tuesday, 9.15am and 7pm on 

Wednesday, 9.15am on Thursday. 

HILLS DEANERY 

St Michael’s Parish, Baulkham Hills: 

9.15am on Tuesday, Wednesday and 

Thursday. 

HOLROYD DEANERY 

Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish, 

Wentworthville: 9am on Tuesday, 

Wednesday and Thursday. 

St Margaret Mary’s Parish, Merrylands: 

9am and 7pm on Tuesday, 9am and 7pm 

on Wednesday, and 6.30am and 9am on 

Thursday. 

NEPEAN DEANERY 

St Joseph’s Parish, Kingswood: Mass 

at 8am on Tuesday, Wednesday and 

Thursday. 

Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, St Marys: 

Mass at 9am on Tuesday, noon on 

Wednesday and 9am on Thursday. 

PARRAMATTA DEANERY 

St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Parramatta: 

Mass at 6.45am and 12.30pm on each 

day. 

At the time of printing, Masses had 

not yet been arranged formally for the 

Blacktown and Mountains deaneries. 

Closer to the dates, please check your 

parish newsletter or the diocesan website: 

www.parracatholic.org/deanerymasses 

What does Mercy mean for 

Judaism, Christianity and Islam? 

Pope Francis has proclaimed 2016 the Year of Mercy. Within this context, 

explore Abrahamic perspectives of mercy in our upcoming short course. 

Dates: 4, 11, 18 and 25 May 2016 

Location: Australian Catholic University, 25A Barker Road, Strathfield 

Program and registration details: acu.edu.au/theology/shortcourses 

CRICOS registered provider: 00004G 



DIOCESAN NEWS 

Alice Hann: “I’m not just a teacher, I’m a part of the community. Everyone is 

family.” 

The Kimberley 

calling 

By Elizabeth McFarlane 

Alice Hann, a 24-year-old teacher from Gilroy College, 

Castle Hill, has embarked on a secondment year to teach 

in Balgo, one of the most remote Aboriginal communities 

in Australia. 

Located in north-east Western Australia, burnt orange dirt 

roads carve into the Balgo (Wirrimanu) Indigenous community, 

found on the northern boundary of the Great Sandy Desert and 

the western edge of the Tanami Desert. 

Flying overhead or nestled in a riverbank burrow, the Redbacked 

Kingfisher (Luurnpa in the native Kukatja language) 

alludes to the Dreaming story of the ancestral heritage of the 

Wirrimanu people. 

The local school in the town of Balgo, Luurnpa Catholic 

School, adopted the name of the kingfisher, paying homage to 

their roots and the Aboriginal connection to the land. 

The K-8 school commenced in 1984 at the invitation of 

the local Aboriginal community. With a total enrolment of 

120 students, the school also offers courses for Years 9 and 10 

through its Kutjungka Trade Training Centre. 

The school is founded on Lasallian values: faith in the 

presence of God, concern for the poor and social justice, respect 

for all persons, building an inclusive community and providing 

quality education. 

It was Alice’s volunteer work with the Lasallians that led to 

her first visit to Balgo. 

“I had been out to Balgo three times prior to this year, in 

2009, 2014 and 2015, volunteering at a summer camp with the 

Lasallian Foundation for two to three weeks each time,” Alice 

said. 

“I was doing work in the community, playing with the 

children and helping them in activities like learning how to swim. 

When I came out last year, I realised that I wanted to stay and 

teach.” 

Despite being formally trained to teach woodwork in Design 

and Technology, Alice is teaching Years 7 and 8 in everything 

from literacy to numeracy. 

“Teaching across all subject areas is challenging, especially 

when English is a second or third language for many of the 

students. But I’m learning a lot of skills by teaching different 

levels in different subjects and I will take those skills back to the 

Diocese of Parramatta,” she said. 

Working alongside eight other teachers, Alice teaches about 

15-20 Indigenous students. She is enjoying being fully immersed 

in the culture and community. 

“There is only one shop, one clinic and one school. The 

community is limited in terms of facilities but we have what we 

need here. 

"You learn to appreciate the little things and you come to 

realise that you don’t need a lot of things,” Alice said. 

Having only taught for two years in Sydney previously, 

Alice’s move away from her home and family to teach in Balgo 

was a big change. 

“I’ve never lived out of home before. You need to be 

adaptable. I didn’t speak the Kukatja language but I’m learning,” 

she said. 

“It’s a small, remote community. It’s really important that I 

build a rapport and strong relationship with the local people, not 

just in the classroom but in the school and community as well. 

“It’s really about embracing and learning about the culture. 

I’m learning new things every day.” 

From water holes and star gazing to calming sunsets and 

rock formations, Alice is taking in the history that is etched into 

her surroundings. 

“We’ve had cookouts at the lookout with all the staff, 

volunteers and parishioners. We head out for swims in the lake 

or play basketball after school on the courts,” she said. 

“I’m not just a teacher, I’m a part of the community. 

Everyone is family out here. 

“If you’re a passionate teacher and have the flexibility to 

move out here to teach, I definitely recommend grabbing the 

opportunity.” 

Proud photography partner of Catholic Outlook 

catholicinsurance.org.au 

1300 655 003 

Home Contents Car Personal Accident Travel Landlord Caravan 



SOCIAL JUSTICE 

Witnessing the simplicity of mercy 

By Sr Louise McKeogh FMA, Diocesan Social Justice Coordinator 

Aflyer with the title Mercy in the City 

crossed my desk recently. An internet 

search showed there is also a book 

with the same title. The goal of the 

author, Kerry Weber, was to feed the hungry, 

give drink to the thirsty and keep her day job. 

It’s the story of how one young adult attempts 

to complete each of the corporal works of 

mercy during Lent. She discovers that it is more 

about living the spirituality of mercy as a way of 

life essential to the Christian journey. 

During these Easter days in this year of 

Mercy, I have been asking myself the questions: 

Where do I see, or where do I find, mercy in 

my neighbourhood? 

Was it in the flyer we received in the post, 

inviting us to a free community BBQ where 

we found Christ Mission Possible feeding 

the hungry and housing the homeless in our 

neighbourhood? 

Having lived in Western Sydney for a 

number of years I was surprised to see the 

number of people truly struggling for life’s 

basics: a home and a daily meal. 

Mercy was in the relationships, respect 

and dignity of the people at this community 

gathering, not just in the food and houses. I 

believe that mercy and justice go hand in hand, 

posing serious questions about employment, a 

living wage, and access to affordable and social 

housing. 

The following day while heading to a city 

meeting, I parked my car at the train station. 

I saw a young woman who was yelling loudly 

across the car park at a male companion. She 

walked away visibly distressed. 

When I arrived at the station platform, there 

she was, distressed and crying. While I was 

trying quickly to work out how to best ‘show 

her mercy’, a young lady approached her and 

offered her a packet of tissues from her bag. 

She sat down beside the woman to listen to her 

story. 

Then she did something that surprised me, 

but shouldn’t have. She put her arm on the 

woman’s shoulder and asked quietly if it was 

OK if she prayed with her. After this moment 

of prayer, the woman was much calmer. 

They boarded the train and these two 

strangers sat together to continue the 

conversation. 

I had seen the Easter Scripture reading – the 

story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. 

I had been tempted to interrupt their quiet 

conversation and ask them that famous 

question: “What are you two talking about as 

you walk this road.” (journey on this train.) 

These two strangers who listened to 

each other and joined in conversation were 

transforming each other, and challenging me. 

Through the simple act of kindness, offering 

a distressed stranger a tissue and sitting 

beside them to listen to their story, I had 

been reminded of and seen the witness of the 

simplicity of mercy. 

Pope Francis challenges us: “In this Holy 

Year, open our hearts to those living on the 

outermost fringes of society: fringes modern 

society itself creates. How many uncertain and 

painful situations there are in the world today! 

Those who have no voice because their cry 

is muffled and drowned out by indifference! 

Be called even more to heal these wounds 

with mercy, solidarity and vigilant care. Let 

us not fall into humiliating indifference or a 

monotonous routine that prevents us from 

discovering what is new!” (Misericordiae Vultus 

15) 

So how are we progressing on the way of 

mercy in this Jubilee Year of Mercy? 

Church calls 

for increase 

to National 

Minimum Wage 

The Australian Catholic Council for 

Employment Relations (ACCER) is 

seeking a $25.10 increase per week to 

the National Minimum Wage. 

The council made the proposal in a 

submission to the Fair Work Commission 

Annual Wage Review 2015-2016. 

The ACCER asked that the National 

Minimum Wage be set at $682 per week and 

$17.95 per hour. It also sought that award wage 

rates be increased by $19 per week. 

The annual wage review requires the Fair 

Work Commission to set a safety net of fair 

minimum wages by taking into account relative 

living standards and the needs of the low paid. 

In the submission, the ACCER said: “The 

setting of a fair National Minimum Wage 

means that those who may depend on it will 

have a decent standard of living and not merely 

freedom from poverty.” 

The Fair Work Commission must 

also take into account the performance 

and competitiveness of the national 

economy, including productivity, business 

competitiveness and viability, inflation and 

employment growth. 

The ACCER said its proposals are 

economically prudent, however, it 

acknowledged that should the Fair Work 

Commission find that there were economic 

reasons not to grant the increases sought, 

then priority should be given to increasing the 

lowest wage rates to support the most needy, 

particularly those who are at risk of poverty. 

The submission is published on the ACCER 

website: http://accer.asn.au/ 

Catholic Super – providing superannuation 

services for more than 40 years 

Offices in BrisBane, canBerra, Darwin, 

GeelOnG, HOBart, MelBOurne, PertH & syDney 

ư Industry super fund returning all profits to members 

ư Superior long term investment performance 

ư Fees well below Industry average 

ư Flexible investment options 

ư Superannuation and pension products 

ư Low cost personal insurance 

ư Financial planning advice 

1300 655 002 | csf.com.au 

Authorised by CSF Pty Limited (ABN 30 006 169 286; AFSL 246664), the Trustee of the MyLifeMyMoney Superannuation Fund (ABN 50 237 896 957).This information is about the Fund and is general information only. 

It has been prepared without taking into account your personal investment objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed in any way as, investment, legal or financial advice. CS106 150915 



CS106 150915 Catholic Outlook 260wx165h_v1.indd 1 

16/09/2015 12:48 pm

www.parrafamlife.org.au @parrafamlife parrafamlife 

FAMILY & LIFE 

What happens when schools 

catch the gender theory virus? 

By Ben Smith, Director of the Family & Life Office 

Young people in a school near you are 

being taught that gender, the sex they 

feel on the inside, is fluid and is not 

determined by their biological sex. 

Furthermore, they are taught about gender 

dysphoria, a psychological disorder in which 

a person’s gender is misaligned with their 

biological sex. The treatment that is commonly 

proposed is hormone replacement therapy and 

sex change surgery. 

This concept is at the heart of an ideology 

called gender theory. Recent media attention 

given to people such as Caitlin/Bruce Jenner 

and the 2015 movie, The Danish Girl, has had 

the effect of making gender ideology ‘go viral’ 

in popular culture. 

The teaching of gender theory in primary 

and secondary schools has been championed by 

the Safe Schools Coalition Australia program, 

which has recently received considerable 

attention in the media and in parliamentary 

inquiries. 

The program is being taught in more than 

500 schools nationwide. Eleven state schools 

in the program are within the geographical 

boundaries of the Diocese of Parramatta. 

The program claims to be about antibullying, 

but one of its co-founders admitted 

recently that it was primarily about teaching 

gender theory. 

Despite the pervasiveness of gender 

theory in our culture, a new way of thinking 

is emerging to give people the clarity and 

the courage to point out that this theory is 

an intellectual version of the Emperor’s New 

Clothes. 

A body of research has emerged that has 

found significant differences in the way the 

organs, the sensory system, the central nervous 

system and other bodily functions operate 

between the sexes. 

While hormones play a role in these 

differences, the Y chromosome has emerged 

as a major player in influencing sexual 

differentiation in humans and other mammals 

throughout the whole body not just in the 

genitals. 

Scientists have discovered that the genetic 

difference between two people of the same sex 

is 0.1% but this difference is 1.5% between the 

sexes. This means the Y chromosome has a 

multiplier effect of 15. 

This new discovery is revolutionising the 

way science looks at the treatment of diseases, 

especially for those that are sex specific. 

In St John Paul II’s Theology of the 

Body catechesis, he observes that the 

creation account of Genesis 1 celebrates the 

complementary union of a naked man and 

woman as an image of God. In their equal 

dignity and their significant difference they 

mysteriously image the Trinity. 

He also highlights that in the creation 

account of Genesis 2, there are two 

complementary experiences of “being in a 

body”. Hence, our sex identity is more than just 

a personal attribute that is changeable but is 

“constitutive for the person”. 

In other words, we have been made by 

God as male or female human persons from 

both the inside and the outside. What God has 

united let man not divide. 

New insights from biology, philosophy 

and theology have illustrated significant sexual 

differences at the level of biology, psychology 

and spirituality. It is clear that surgically 

altering our bodies does not actually change 

whether we are a male or female person. 

Anyone suffering from gender dysphoria 

needs special care. A number of experienced 

psychiatrists have identified this disorder as 

being primarily an issue with a person’s mind, 

not their bodies. 

A 2011 Swedish study of more than 300 

people who had undergone sex-change surgery 

found that 15 years after surgery they had a 

suicide rate that was 20 times higher than the 

average population. 

Gender theory is aggressively pushing 

social and anatomical engineering in many 

areas of our society. It is time that gender 

theory was removed from our schools and 

other institutions to prevent significant damage 

being done to the youth of Australia and our 

culture. 

Contact Ben Smith at: 

famlife@parra.catholic.org.au 

@parrafamlife 

WIN THE 

KEY TO A 

MAZDA3 

Take out a new CCI Personal Insurance 

comprehensive car insurance policy 

before 1 July 2016 for your chance to 

win the acclaimed Mazda3 Maxx, 

valued at $28,000*. 

Plus, when you choose CCI Personal 

Insurance, your policy, no matter which 

level of cover you choose, will contribute 

towards helping the Catholic community. 

It’s insurance that is good for you and 

good for the Catholic community. 

1300 657 046 

catholicinsurance.org.au/winamazda3 

facebook/catholicinsurance 

Home Contents Car Personal Accident Travel Landlord Caravan 

Catholic Church Insurance Limited ABN 76 000 005 210, AFS Licence No. 235415 (CCI) arranges personal insurance as promoter of the underwriter Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 

850 AFS Licence No. 234708 (Allianz). We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Policy terms, conditions, limits and 

exclusions apply. Before deciding please consider individual product disclosure statements available by calling 1300 655 003; or from www.catholicinsurance.org.au. If you buy this insurance CCI may 

be paid a commission that is a percentage of the premium depending on the product. *Competition runs from 02/05/16 – 01/07/16. Prizes are drawn on 6/07/16 at Level 13, 2 Market St Sydney. Winners’ 

names published in The Australian on 9/07/16. Authorised under NSW PERMIT NO. LTPS/16/01549; ACT PERMIT NO. TP 16/00377, SA PERMIT NO. T16/322. Promotion terms and conditions available here 

or at allianz.com.au/prize. Promoter is Allianz. 



DIOCESAN PASTORAL PLAN 

Working together: we know 

what we mean, don’t we? 

By Richard McMahon, Director of Pastoral Planning & Implementation 

It is one of the catchphrases of 

any sporting team, community 

or organisation: “We all need to 

work together!” Our Church often 

employs the word collaboration, but 

what we are talking about? 

Loughlan Sofield ST and Carroll 

Juliano SHCJ have offered much 

wisdom on this topic, and are 

recognised as international experts in 

leadership, community growth and 

collaboration. 

They offer four levels of 

collaboration: 

1. Level One – Co-existence: 

Members may share a common 

mission, membership or be in 

the same team, but they exist 

independently of one another with 

no shared expectations or shared 

accountabilities. This can be like 

parishes where there may be many 

ministries, but without any reference 

to other ministry areas. 

2. Level Two – Communication: 

Sharing information is the second 

level, involving the conscious effort 

to inform each other of programs, 

calendars and activities. Meetings 

may be held to share matters 

in common, and the sharing of 

common ideals and values may 

emerge. 

3. Level Three – Cooperation: 

Following on from a realisation that 

separate entities have an impact on 

each other, for better or worse, there 

is a growth towards interdependence. 

In parishes, a lead project or goal 

may emerge, and different ministry 

areas will decide how to support this 

effort. 

4. Level Four – Collaboration: When 

cooperation flourishes, a group may 

seek to move towards collaboration. 

At this level, everyone experiences 

ownership of the common mission, 

and works together for a common 

goal. Rather than pushing for their 

own area to thrive, there is a desire 

to unite the gifts of the different 

members, joining them together in 

the mission of Jesus Christ. 

Loughlan and Juliano invite 

communities to focus on four 

practical steps to collaborative 

ministry. 

1. Clarification: Because there 

are so many understandings of 

collaboration, it is important to 

arrive at a shared definition to 

avoid failure and frustration in the 

collaborative framework. Since 

collaboration is built on empowering 

the gifts of those involved, then at 

this stage, it must be agreed that 

there will be a process for identifying 

gifts, honestly addressing what or 

whom may be blocking the sharing 

of gifts, and finally how gifts can be 

joined together for mission. 

2. Conviction: This step seeks to 

ensure that members are convinced 

of the value of collaborative ministry. 

After all, the temptation to go 

alone is often easier and far less 

painful. Members are encouraged 

to articulate their reasons for why 

they are convinced of the value of 

collaborating. 

3. Commitment: It is all well and 

good to be convicted of a thing’s 

value, but it is something else to 

commit to embracing that way of 

life. It takes a conversion of heart, 

and this stage attempts to articulate 

the fears and obstacles which 

prevent people from committing to 

collaboration. 

4. Capacity/Capability: This step 

recognises that while efforts in the 

first three stages may occur, little 

progress in collaboration may be 

taking place. To develop capability 

and capacity, a number of areas are 

identified for growth. These include 

developing skills in group leadership, 

conflict resolution and management, 

confrontation and discernment of 

gifts. A shared spirituality of the 

group is critical, as is a clear process 

and a developmental readiness. 

As we can see, working together 

in a collaborative fashion means far 

more than labelling an enterprise 

as such. And such processes, while 

fundamental for healthy community 

and organisational life, are even more 

critical for when more than one 

community seeks to collaborate. 

If your group or community 

would like support in strengthening 

collaborative ministry, please contact 

our Pastoral Planning Office. 

Richard McMahon 

Tel (02) 9831 4911, 0437 497 526 

rmcmahon@parra.catholic.org.au 

Bishops want Australian 

Catholics singing from 

the same hymn book 

The Bishops of Australia 

launched a new liturgical 

worship book at the Catholic 

Leadership Centre in Melbourne on 

8 April, 30 years since the last edition 

was published. 

The Catholic Worship Book II 

hits all the right notes with a broad 

range of liturgical music, including 

the chants for the revised Order of 

Mass (2010), new and revised Mass 

settings and service music, plus 

music for the Sunday Eucharist, 

the various rites of the Church and 

Morning and Evening Prayer. 

Speaking at the launch, 

Archbishop Denis Hart, President 

of the Australian Catholic Bishops 

Conference, said the new Catholic 

Worship Book II would be the official 

liturgical music resource for the 

Catholic Church in Australia. 

Prepared by the National 

Liturgical Music Board, an advisory 

board of the Bishops Commission 

for Liturgy, the worship book reflects 

the Catholic Church’s rich heritage 

of chant – in Latin and English – and 

traditional hymns and contemporary 

liturgical songs from local and 

international sources. 

The Catholic Worship Book II 

was developed with the contribution 

and collaboration of two key people 

in the Diocese of Parramatta: the 

Diocesan Administrator, Very Rev 

Peter G Williams, and the Director 

of Music at St Patrick’s Cathedral, 

organist, conductor and composer, 

Bernard Kirkpatrick. 

Music featured includes old 

favourites like Praise to the holiest 

(Cardinal Newman) and Christ be 

our light (Bernadette Farrell) as well 

as contemporary Australian music 

such as If I could tell the love of God 

(Chris Willcock SJ) and Lord, to 

whom shall we go? (Michael Herry). 

The book is available in two 

versions, a full music edition with 

two volumes, hard case, in a slip case 

and the people’s edition, also known 

as the pew edition, available in 

hardback for long life and durability 

in parishes. 

For more information, including 

costs and availability, contact 

Morning Star Publishing: 

cwb@morningstarpublishing.net.au 

At the launch were (from left): Very Rev Peter G Williams, Archbishop Denis Hart, Bishop Pat 

O'Regan and Bishop Peter Elliott. Photo: Casamentos, Melbourne. 

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 

* 



Mass for Neophytes: New Catholics 

continue their journey 

By Sr Mary Louise Walsh ISSM, Liturgy Educator in the Office for Worship 

Large crowds were in attendance at all the Easter celebrations at St Paul the Apostle Parish, 

Winston Hills. The pinnacle was the Easter Vigil when seven candidates were inducted into the 

Church through Baptism, Confirmation and received First Communion. These new Catholics 

highlight the diversity of backgrounds within the parish community. 

On Friday 13 May, all those 

newly baptised and those 

received into the Catholic 

Church from across the Diocese 

are invited to gather as the newest 

members of the Diocese of Parramatta 

to give thanks and praise to God for 

the wonderful gift received at Easter 

this year. 

This occasion is very symbolic for 

these neophytes as it marks the end of 

the period of mystagogia. These newly 

welcomed adults (and children) have 

begun in earnest their journey into full 

membership of the Catholic Church. 

As a diocesan community we 

have an opportunity at this significant 

Eucharistic celebration to join with 

them in praising God for their gift 

of faith and of showing our personal 

gratitude for who they are becoming 

as active members of the diocesan 

community. 

Every member of every parish is 

invited to consider this an opportunity 

to show support for our newest 

Catholics by attending the 7.30pm 

Mass on 13 May at St Patrick’s 

Cathedral in Parramatta on the Friday 

before the Solemnity of Pentecost. 

This Mass is known as the Mass for 

Neophytes. A neophyte is one who is 

newly baptised into the Catholic Faith 

or received into the Catholic Church. 

This ‘title’ is given to those who 

have journeyed through several 

previous stages. 

The Rite of Christian Initiation 

of Adults begins with a person 

being recognised as an inquirer or a 

pre-catechumen. 

After a period of discernment 

between the individual and those 

leading the process, the person is then 

formally welcomed into a preparation 

stage and becomes a catechumen. 

This ‘title’ is held throughout 

the length of instruction and faith 

development. 

Most often, at the beginning of 

the Lenten season (that is prior to 

the expected time of initiation or 

reception) the catechumen is formally 

welcomed into the final stage of 

preparation and becomes a member of 

the elect. 

The Rite of Election (when those to 

be baptised) and the Penitential Service 

(for those already baptised) marks 

the climax of preparation when the 

elect and candidates are presented for 

initiation or reception into the Catholic 

Church. 

After initiation or reception, the 

new Catholic is henceforth known as 

a neophyte. This stage (although not 

often recognised) marks an ongoing 

journey into familiarity with and living 

as a Catholic. It may take months or 

even years for the individual to move 

out of this stage. 

DIOCEAN NEWS 

Ann O’Brien receives 

OLMC Alumnae Award 

Social worker Ann O’Brien was 

announced as the recipient of 

the 2015 Our Lady of Mercy 

College (OLMC) Parramatta Catherine 

McAuley Alumnae Award at an 

assembly at the college on 15 March 

2016. 

Currently the Director of Marriage 

Support and Specialist Services at 

CatholicCare Social Services in the 

Diocese of Parramatta, Ann has 

devoted herself to the service of others 

throughout her 30-year career as a 

social worker. 

OLMC’s Principal, Stephen Walsh, 

said Ann embodied the college’s 

Mercy qualities. “In particular, she has 

shown great compassion and caring 

throughout her life and work,” he said. 

“Ann has practised her Catholic 

faith as a disciple of Jesus, including by 

being very involved in her local parish 

community. She has served those who 

are marginalised, vulnerable and in 

need of support. Ann has followed 

in the footsteps of the founder of the 

Sisters of Mercy, Catherine McAuley, by 

living out our Mercy values.” 

Ann recalls that during her time at 

OLMC, there was both a spoken and 

unspoken expectation that you would 

grasp every opportunity given to you. 

"Education was to be cherished and, as 

women, we could aspire to anything 

that we were prepared to work towards. 

“OLMC was a place to learn, to be 

nurtured, to know that God loved us 

Ann O’Brien is congratulated by OLMC’s 

Principal, Stephen Walsh. 

and to understand that whatever gifts 

we had been given, we had the power 

to use these in many different ways, 

especially by bringing love and care to 

others. 

“I’m a Mercy Girl and I continue 

to draw on what formed me through 

my Mercy education. This includes 

the importance of compassion and 

caring, positivity and hope, charity, 

responsibility, acceptance, leadership 

and teamwork skills, discipline and 

clear boundaries. 

“I will always remember that, as a 

woman, I have immense possibilities 

to influence through everything that 

comes from me – my words, my 

actions, and my conduct.” 

WE CAN ANSWER YOUR FINANCIAL QUESTIONS 

Over-the-phone advice 

Face-to-face advice 

From $5,000+ in super 

We offer two appointment-based services that can help set you on the right path for your super, 

pension and insurance. The advice takes into account your specific personal circumstances, and 

the result is a written statement setting out the advice provided. 

Learn more 

From $50,000+ in super 

www.catholicsuper.com.au/parra | 1300 658 776 

SCS Super Pty Limited, ABN 74 064 712 607, AFSL 230544, RSE L0002264 Trustee of Australian Catholic Superannuation & Retirement Fund, ABN 24 680 629 023, RSE R1055436. This document is not intended to be financial advice, therefore, you should consider obtaining 

independent financial advice before making any decisions about your benefits in the fund. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement and fact sheets available on our website. The Australian Catholic Superannuation financial planning service is offered through an arrangement 

with Industry Fund Services Limited (AFSL 232514) 




Walking with Glenbrook 


The efforts of many parishioners ensured the parish 50th anniversary celebrations were a resounding 

success. 

TTwo major anniversaries were 

celebrated by St Finbar’s Parish at 

Glenbrook this past month. 

Concluding the 50th anniversary 

celebrations on 3 April, the parish also 

celebrated the one-year anniversary of the 

appointment of their Parish Priest, Fr Jolly 

Chacko MS, on 18 April. 

The president of the Parish Pastoral 

Council, Vince Dobson, described Fr Jolly 

as a “good listener and a priest who journeys 

with his parishioners”. 

“It is through journeying with 

parishioners that you can fully understand 

the needs of the community,” he said. “You 

need to build relationships with the people 

you support and it’s only through those 

relationships that a community can be built.” 

In many ways, the theme of walking with 

parishioners is accentuated by the design of 

the church. 

Nestled in the green of the Lower Blue 

Mountains, the pathway that circles the 

church guides you on a walk through the 

final stages of Jesus’ life. 

The Stations of the Cross line the path 

and they provide visitors and parishioners 

with a powerful prayerful experience. 

Journeying to the front of the church, the 

12 apostles are symbolically depicted on the 

centre of the wooden doors and the symbols 

continue as you walk through. 

The cross on the wall of the church, 

designed by the famous sculptor, Tom Bass 

(1916-2010), portrays the five wounds of 

Christ from which flowed His most precious 

blood. 

The pipe organ inside St Finbar’s, which 

was dedicated on Sunday morning, 15 

October 1995 by the then Parish Priest, Fr 

Brian Larkey, features the national floral 

emblems of England, Scotland, Wales and 

Ireland. 

The pipes also carry crowns that feature 

the fleur-de-lis, "flower of the lily". In 

Christian art, the lily is a symbol of chastity 

and purity attributed to the Virgin Mary. 

The rose depicted on the organ has 

five petals, which represent the five senses, 

through which the spirit of the human being 

makes contact with the material world. 

Looking up, the ceiling curves towards a 

sky light, which utilises earthly colours with 

spectacular effect. 

“It’s one of those parishes you stumble 

upon but when you do, you realise it is such 

a welcoming and friendly parish,” Vince said. 

The Diocesan Administrator, Very Rev 

Peter G Williams, gave the homily at the 50th 

Anniversary Mass on 3 April, detailing his 

hopes for the future of the parish: “May this 

parish continue to focus on its principal goal, 

which is to bring others to a knowledge of 

the love and mercy we know and experience 

in Jesus Christ, who God sent in the fullness 

of time to be our Saviour and Redeemer.” 

The Society of St Vincent de Paul has a 

long history in the Glenbrook community, 

surpassing the establishment of the parish on 

30 May 1965. 

Vince Dobson has been a member 

of the society over many decades. “We’re 

celebrating 50 years as a parish but we’re 

celebrating 60 years with the Society of St 

Vincent de Paul,” he explained. 

For more information about St Finbar’s 

parish, visit the website; 

www.stfinbars.org.au 

The church was packed for the 50th Anniversary 

Mass on 3 April. 

Parish Priest Fr Chacko MS inside St Finbar’s 

Church. Photo: Elizabeth McFarlane. 

FREE CYP EVENTS 

FOR YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS 

Lifted 

LIVE 

SATURDAY 14 MAY 2016 

LIFTED Live! Steve Angrisano in Concert 

Starts 7.30pm, St Pauls College Hall, 198 

Old Prospect Rd, Greystanes 

TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 

A Night with Jason Evert – The Five Great Loves 

Starts 7pm, Patrician Brothers’ College, 

100 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown 

Register for both events via the CYP events page: 

https://www.facebook.com/catholicyouthparra/events 

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES CONTACT CATHOLIC YOUTH PARRAMATTA OR FOLLOW THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA 

www.parra.catholic.org.au youth/ 

www.facebook.com/catholicyouthparra/ 

ST BERNADETTE’S PARISH, CASTLE HILL 

is seeking to appoint a 

PASTORAL ASSOCIATE 

The Parish Community of St Bernadette’s, Castle Hill, is seeking an energetic, 

committed and enthusiastic Pastoral Associate who is prepared to work as a member 

of a team and to be accountable to the Parish Priest. 

The role includes pastoral (e.g. assisting Catechist Co-ordinator, ministry to the 

sick and elderly) and liturgical responsibilities (training and formation of liturgical 

ministers and assisting in preparation of some ceremonies), plus a readiness to be 

involved in other duties as they may arise. 

It is a full-time position, 38 hours per week. The hours are flexible and will include 

attendance at weekend Masses and some evening work. 

Qualifications in theology and some pastoral experience would be an advantage. 

A more detailed job description is available on application, 

tel (02) 9634 2622 or email admin@stbernadette.org.au 

Applications close 6 May 2016. 

For further details about this role visit www.parracatholic.org/employment 

REGIONAL TRIBUNAL OF SYDNEY 

NSW & THE ACT 

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT 

Part time 24 hrs/week, to start at the beginning July, located in Parramatta 

To be successful in this role you will need to have: 

•A commitment to the Catholic Church and to its mission and core values 

•Well-developed verbal and written, interpersonal and communication skills 

•Excellent attention to detail, quality and accuracy 

Essential Criteria: 

•Experience in a general office/admin role or similar position 

•Demonstrated time management and organisational skills 

Applications close at 5pm on Friday 20 May 2016. 

For further details about this role visit www.parracatholic.org/employment 

Send resume, including 3 employer referees and covering letter, to: 

The Tribunal Office Director, Mrs Paula Kerr, 

PO Box 3006, North Parramatta, NSW, 1750. 

Please mark the envelope Application for Tribunal Interviewer. 



Fr Jolly on mission in the Mountains 

By Joseph Younes 


In his typically quiet and reserved manner, 

Fr Jolly Chacko MS softly recounts his 

childhood growing up in a devoutly 

Catholic family from Kerala, India. The son 

of a farmer and his wife, and one of seven 

children, they “would pray the daily rosary 

and evening prayers”. 

His large family, whom he describes as 

“very Catholic and involved in parish life” 

were happy when he told them he wanted 

to be a priest. “I come from a very religious 

family who were active in parish life. We 

were part of the parish community.” 

“God was calling me,” Fr Jolly continued. 

“I wanted to be a follower of Christ, to serve 

God’s people and be at the service of the 

Lord.” 

Born into the Syro-Malabar Rite, Fr 

Jolly entered the La Salette seminary in 

India at the age of 23 after university study. 

He attained a double masters degree in 

psychology and political science. He has also 

undertaken courses in spiritual direction as 

well as pastoral care. 

He would eventually study and work in 

India, France and the Philippines where he 

was ordained in the Latin Rite. 

“I felt called to be a missionary. Being 

a missionary helps me to serve the people 

through the ministry, through talks, through 

advice, through spiritual help,” Fr Jolly said. 

After ministering for a number of years 

with the La Salette community as Novice 

Master, Director of Scholastics, in parish 

ministry and as Vicar Provincial he was 

invited, like other MS priests, to work in the 

Diocese of Parramatta by the then Bishop of 

Parramatta, Kevin Manning. 

Since arriving in Australia, he has been 

assistant priest at Marayong and Penrith 

parishes and has recently completed his first 

year as parish priest at Saint Finbar’s Parish, 

Glenbrook. In addition, Fr Jolly assists with 

the formation of deacons and the permanent 

diaconate. 

“As a Missionary of Our Lady of La 

Salette, I enjoy my mission to the Diocese. 

I am happy as a priest, happy with my 

ministry, happy being a religious,” Fr Jolly 

said. 

Far from his humble origins living on 

a farm in India, Fr Jolly provides spiritual 

and pastoral support to the parishioners 

at Glenbrook parish, nestled in the Blue 

Mountains. 

A polyglot, speaking four languages 

(English, Malayalam, Tagalog and French), 

Fr Jolly is mindful of his role as a missionary 

and a parish priest. “I am here for people, 

especially in the most vulnerable times in 

their lives,” Fr Jolly said. 

“People have different needs, I do more 

home visits in Glenbrook to address the 

needs of an ageing population. However, 

Fr Jolly Chacko MS is happy to see more young people involved in the parish. 

I am more than happy to see more and 

more young families getting involved in the 

parish.” 

Fr Jolly describes his parish as a “very 

welcoming community, friendly people.” 

“The parishioners are very cooperative of 

the parish needs. They are a friendly people, 

a welcoming parish and also, a well-educated 

parish.” 

Fr Jolly sees the Missionaries of La Salette 

as playing an important role in the Diocese. 

“Our mission is a mission of reconciliation. 

It is not only about sitting in a confessional 

box but reaching out to people, reconciling 

families and reconciling lives.” 

“This is an important element in the Year 

of Mercy – living a reconciled life. 

In his unassuming manner, Fr Jolly 

explained how he sees the work of Christ. 

“It is important we all give the gift of 

forgiveness. We all make mistakes. It is 

important to forgive as mercy is a gift you 

give and a gift you receive.” 

FROM* 

$5690 

*PLUS 

AIRFARES 

ST PAUL EXPEDITION 

A 17 day pilgrimage departs 

16th September 2016 with 

Fr Don Kettle PP 

The Acts of the Apostles come alive as we 

traverse the ancient paths of St Paul and 

unearth the origins and emerging faith of 

the first Christian communities. 

Featuring: Athens • Greek Island Cruise 

– Patmos and Kusadasi • Kalambaka 

• Gallipoli • Istanbul 

Malta extension available. 

Mothers’ Day SATURDAY 

7TH MAY 

Mass2016 

*Costs have been based on prices as at February 2016 and must remain subject to possible change in the unlikely event of significant 

exchange rate variations, airfare increases and minimum group size contingencies. Lic. 2TA 003632 

CALL: 1800 819 156 

VISIT: harvestjourneys.com 

An Amazing Story 

Of Conversion 

For fourteen years Geraldine has shared, 

in Australia, the USA, Ireland, New 

Zealand and recently France, her near 

death experience of Jesus and Mary. 

She went from living as a lapsed Catholic 

to being convinced that God and Heaven 

really existed and now wanted to go there 

at any cost. “To suffer here is nothing 

compared to the joy that awaits”. “How 

happy my heart is that the mercy of 

Our Divine Master is so great”. 

Her messages from Jesus and Mary are for 

these times. Her talks strengthen faith, give 

courage and hope; people have received 

healings, physical and spiritual, including from addiction. 

If you would like Geraldine to speak to your Parish or home group, 

or if you wish to order books, DVDs or medals then please contact Doreen 

by telephone on 02 9688 1097 or visit the website www.divine-inspirations.org 

Rookwood Cemetery 

12.00pm 

Mary, Mother of Mercy Chapel 

Barnet Avenue, 

Rookwood Cemetery 

(Adjacent to the Catholic Office) 

Liverpool Cemetery 

10.30am 

Main Chapel 

Please join us for a special Mass in memory of all mothers 




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

Testing Times 

The loudly ticking clock 

above the blackboard. The 

uncomfortable impression 

of a biro on cold fingers. 

The busy hush of ink racing 

across lined booklets. 

Pens down! Perhaps these 

recollections of school 

exams take you back to 

another time or perhaps 

this is closer to today’s 

experience than we realise. 

Not for much longer. 

For the first time in 2017, NAPLAN tests will begin 

to be made available to students online. It’s fitting 

that examinations change, but just going online is not 

enough. While NAPLAN has its place as a point in 

time measure of basic literacy and numeracy skills, it 

is time to look at a whole new approach to the role of 

assessment as education transforms. 

NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and 

Numeracy) is the test that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 

9 take each year. It looks at how students are travelling 

in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation and 

numeracy. Having a way to measure the effectiveness of 

our national investment in education makes good sense, 

but we have to make sure it is the right measure. 

NAPLAN was developed as a tool for teachers to 

understand how a student is progressing in literacy and 

numeracy, however, it has morphed into a measure of 

school performance and a way to compare schools. 

We need a more sophisticated suite of tools than 

NAPLAN to deliver on tracking student progress in 

learning as well as identifying and tracking student 

strengths. It has been estimated that about 40% of 

today’s jobs won’t exist in the future and 40% or 50% of 

the population will run small businesses. 

This will require people with entrepreneurialism, problem 

solving, advanced reasoning, complex judgment, social 

interaction, imagination, creativity with ‘soft skills’ such 

as resilience, empathy, acceptance, service-mindedness 

as well as emotional intelligence becoming increasingly 

important. 

This means that flexibility, resilience and independent 

thinking should be seen as basic skills for schools to 

cultivate. Education and training are important and 

we will provide the best quality and depth available, 

however, closer partnerships with industry and research 

will show which skills, qualifications and aptitudes are 

needed in the future. 

This will require new methods of assessment and 

tracking students while they engage with activity-based 

learning – projects, challenges, community-based, 

service-based learning projects, etc. that showcase their 

strengths and capabilities. 

Technologies can be leveraged to track student progress 

in real time every day, to make sure that every learning 

journey is on track. This way, teachers can adjust the 

teaching as the learning happens. 

If we really examine what we are hoping to achieve 

through NAPLAN, a bolder vision for assessment 

in education is possible. We should be using these 

opportunities to test how well schools are preparing 

students for the future and making changes to learning 

and teaching in response. After all, what is the virtue in 

knowing all the right answers to all the wrong questions? 

Greg Whitby 

Executive Director of Schools 

@gregwhitby 

blog: bluyonder.wordpress.com 

Artist's impression of St Luke’s* Catholic College Marsden Park. 

St Luke’s* Catholic College Marsden Park 

to open in 2017 

Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta will open 

a next generation Catholic learning community at 

Elara, Marsden Park, in 2017. Working with leading 

international educator Prof Stephen Heppell, St Luke’s will 

combine best practice learning and teaching with school 

design to provide a contemporary approach to schooling 

within a Catholic faith environment. 

Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby said while 

the new school is still a greenfield site, it holds great 

expectations. 

“We are taking everything we know about learning and 

teaching to ensure we deliver a world class schooling 

experience to meet the needs of today’s learners," Greg said. 

“Despite the rapid pace of social change, including the 

nature of paid employment and digital disruption, many 

schools too closely resemble those you and I, and our 

parents, attended at the dawn of the industrial age. 

“We are educating students today for careers that haven’t 

been invented yet, so we need to provide a personalised 

education that equips students with the skills they need to 

thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

“Within our Catholic context we also need to ensure our 

learners will be active within their communities, making 

the world a better and brighter place.” 

When fully occupied, St Luke’s will accommodate 2000 

learners and will provide a flexible curriculum and multiple 

pathways, including early learning, K-12, out-of-school 

hours care, a learning needs hub and post-school pathways 

with tertiary and business partners. 

Catholic Education has already received an overwhelming, 

positive response to the concept behind the new school, 

with a number of parents, teachers and leaders looking to 

be a part of the learning community. 

Expressions of interest are currently being accepted for St 

Luke’s Catholic College, please send inquiries to 

www.stlukesmarsdenpark.catholic.edu.au 

*Proposed school 

Much of the daily life of the school will occur in ‘The Marketplace’ with 

its large covered space affording opportunities for learning, gatherings, 

recreation and other community events. 

The design has been developed around a compact built footprint, 

envisioned as a city grid. Learning spaces are connected by ‘streets’ 

arriving at the centre, a natural location for the town square or 

marketplace. 

Developing on from the traditional library, ‘The Hub’ is a communal 

learning space that will serve for informal learning and teaching and 

information gathering. 



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

Labor announces education as priority 


Record year for Executive Director’s Summer 

Reading Challenge 

The results are in for the 2016 Executive 

Director's Summer Reading Challenge and they 

are terrific: 3582 books and articles read by 796 

students. 

The competition is aimed at promoting literacy 

and ongoing learning over the school holidays 

among all students from Kindergarten to Year 

12 in the Diocese of Parramatta. 

Every entrant received a certificate of 

participation and four lucky students were 

selected, at random, as the winners of an iPad 

Mini. Congratulations Chelsea from St John's 

Primary, Riverstone, Michael from St Andrew’s 

College, Marayong, Lauren from Catherine 

McAuley Westmead, and Dominique (pictured 

right). 

Dominique from St John Vianney's Primary, Doonside, with 

her parents and Greg Whitby. 

From left: Principal Michael Hopley with Chris Bowen, Bill Shorten and Sue Walsh. 

A number of prominent Labor leaders have 

visited school communities in the Diocese of 

Parramatta recently. 

On 1 April, Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary, 

Greystanes, opened its doors to Opposition 

Leader Bill Shorten and Federal Member for 

McMahon and Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen, 

who sat with a Kindergarten class before giving 

a press conference. 

On 31 March, Corpus Christi Primary, 

Cranebrook, welcomed Shadow Minister for 

Education Kate Ellis and Labor candidate for 

Lindsay Emma Husar to tour the school and 

speak with parents. 

Schools get into the spirit for Catholic Schools 

Week 

From 6-12 March, Catholic Schools in NSW 

and ACT opened their doors to showcase 

learning and teaching at its best with a range of 

activities and events planned for students and 

parents during the week. 

The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2016 was 

‘I belong. You belong. We belong’. The theme 

tied in with the Jubilee Year of Mercy. 

Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby 

visited St Oliver’s Primary, Harris Park, to meet 

with students, parents and teachers. 

During the visits, Bill Shorten announced 

Labor’s commitment to Gonski funding. 

“Labor’s ‘Your Child, Our Future’ will mean 

more individual attention for students, better 

trained teachers, every school, every child – 

government, independent or Catholic,” Mr 

Shorten said. 

Deputy Executive Director Sue Walsh spoke 

about the importance of funding for all 

students. 

“It is critical for schools to have certainty 

around funding so they can plan effectively for 

the needs of each student,” Sue said. 

Celebrating Catholic Schools Week with some furry friends 

at Trinity Catholic Primary, Kemps Creek. 

Project Compassion fundraising snapshot 

Throughout Lent, Catholic schools in Western 

Sydney held various events to fundraise for 

the 2016 Caritas Australia Project Compassion 

appeal. 

Our Lady of the Nativity 

Primary, Lawson. 

St Bernadette’s Primary, 

Lalor Park. 

Delany College, Granville, raised more than $2000 

Greg Whitby now NewsLocal weekly columnist 

NewsLocal has invited Executive Director 

of Schools Greg Whitby to write a weekly 

education column for its 20 titles across NSW. 

Recognised as an influential and leading 

thinker in contemporary education, Greg’s 

column will focus on all aspects of schooling 

and education policy. 

Look out for him in your local paper today 

and join the conversation on facebook.com/ 

catholicedparra, Twitter @catholicedparra 

@gregwhitby and via Greg’s blog 

www.bluyonder.wordpress.com 

Top of the Class with Greg Whitby appears weekly in 

NewsLocal papers. 

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 

Loyola’s Science experiment 

success on Q&A 

Minister impressed by 

McCarthy CTTC 

PRC ushers in new president 

Science students from Loyola Senior High School, Mt Druitt, attending the 

ABC studios for the live airing of Q&A. 

On 14 March, Science students from Loyola Senior High School, 

Mt Druitt, attended the ABC studios to be part of the audience 

in the live broadcast of Q&A. 

One lucky student, Claudine Bautista, was given the opportunity 

to ask a question, having been selected from of a pool of almost 

200 questions. 

Panelist and world-renowned physicist and string theorist Brian 

Greene snapped up the question: If we do have a multiverse, if it 

exists, how will it affect the way we live? 

St Patrick’s Marist College 

touch football stars 

Fiona Scott, Scott Ryan and Greg Whitby enjoy their tour of McCarthy 

College CTTC. 

On 8 March, newly appointed Minister for Vocational Education 

and Training (VET) Scott Ryan visited McCarthy Catholic 

College, Emu Plains, with Member for Lindsay Fiona Scott to 

tour the Catholic Trade Training Centre (CTTC). 

The visit coincided with International Women’s Day and 

Minister Ryan met with Emerson Mason, the only female 

student in the carpentry course. Emerson is following in the 

footsteps of her father, who is also a carpenter. 

The minister also toured the facilities and was impressed with 

the size of the CTTC, commenting on how well the facilities 

emulated the workplace. 

Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby said it was great that 

the minister got to see first hand how the CTTC operates. 

“It’s important that students are offered multiple opportunities 

to transition from school to work or further study,” Greg said. 

“CTTCs are one of many pathways we offer students in the 

Diocese and we are glad the minister saw the hard work that we 

have put into it.” 

St Bernadette’s donates 

computers to Parramatta YCW 

New PRC President Lynn McKinnon, former PRC president Selina Calleia 

and the PRC executive team. 

On 23 March, the outgoing Parent Representative Council 

(PRC) President Selina Calleia was thanked for her work and 

new President Lynn McKinnon was welcomed into her new role 

by the Diocesan Administrator, Very Rev Peter Williams, and 

Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby. 

Invitation to farewell 

Sr Catherine Maddock CHF 

Sr Catherine Maddock CHF received the Diocesan Medal of Honour in 

2012 from the previous Bishop of Parramatta, Most Rev Anthony Fisher 

OP. Photo: Alfred Boudib. 

On Sunday 19 June, Sr Catherine Maddock CHF will be 

farewelled from Christ the King Parish after 43 years of service 

to the community and various schools in the Diocese of 

Parramatta. Sr Catherine was the founding principal of Christ 

the King North Rocks in 1973 where she worked for 23 years. 

All are welcome to attend the special Mass at 10am at Christ the 

King Primary, Statham Ave, North Rocks, followed by lunch in 

the parish hall. Sr Catherine will return to Ireland on 30 June. 

Diocese farewells Mary Sherry 

after 35 years of service 

St Patrick’s Marist College, Dundas, students Tayla Duguid and Bradley 

Cincotta. 

On 8 February, St Patrick’s Marist College, Dundas, students 

Tayla Duguid and Bradley Cincotta were awarded the 2015 

NSWCCC Blue Award for Touch Football at an awards evening 

held at St Patrick’s College, Sutherland. 

Principal Angela Hay said the prestigious Blue Award recognises 

the participation in the true spirit of the NSWCCC Sporting 

Association. 

“This award takes into consideration sporting excellence as 

well as her contribution to junior sport, school leadership roles, 

academic achievements, extracurricular activities and other 

school sport representation,” Angela said. 

St Bernadette’s Secretary Frances Murphy with (from left): YCW Rafael 

Tordilla, Liam Culican and YCW Fono Taefu. 

In March, St Bernadette’s Primary, Castle Hill, donated 45 IBM/ 

Lenovo laptops and computers, along with monitors, keyboards 

and mice to the Parramatta Young Christian Workers (YCW) 

organisation. 

Catholic Education’s ICT Trainee Liam Culican said he was 

inspired to participate after reading an article in the March 

2016 issue of Catholic Outlook calling on parishes, schools 

and organisations to donate older or unwanted computers and 

laptops for re-use. 

Refurbished computers are donated to young people in the 

local diocesan community and to East Timor, where 60% of the 

population is under 25 years of age. 

From left: Greg Whitby, Mary Sherry, Deputy Executive Director Sue Walsh 

and Br Aengus Kavanagh FSP. 

On 24 March, Executive Director of Schools Greg Whitby 

announced that Mary Sherry would be retiring after 35 years of 

service to our Catholic community. 



www.ccss.org.au 

CCSSParramatta 

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICE 

COURSES & EVENTS 

Responsible Gambling Support Group ̶ is free and on 

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

Blacktown. Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Blacktown Neighbour Aid 

celebrating 25 Years 

Dedicated volunteers provide companionship and assistance with tasks such as shopping and bill paying. 

Blacktown Neighbour Aid (BNA) provides a volunteer home 

visitation and support program in the Blacktown area for 

the frail-aged and their carers. 

The main purpose of BNA is to assist clients to remain living 

in their homes for as long as possible, avoiding premature 

institutionalisation. 

A team of dedicated staff and volunteers provides 

companionship and direct assistance to individuals with tasks 

such as shopping, bill paying, assisted transport to medical and 

other appointments, friendly home visiting and other errands. 

The service also facilitates regular client group activities, 

including hydrotherapy, swimming and walking for those whose 

goal is to improve their health and wellbeing. 

In June this year, BNA will be celebrating 25 years of service in 

the community. BNA Manager Deb Woolacott is organising this 

commemoration. 

“We would like to invite anyone who has been, or is currently 

involved, with BNA to attend this special anniversary event,” 

Deb said. “It is our way of thanking all those, including staff, 

volunteers and clients, who strive to make the lives of others more 

enjoyable.” 

Lunch will be held at Bungarribee Hub, Blacktown, on 

Thursday 16 June to commemorate 25 years. If you would like 

to attend, please RSVP by Friday 20 May, tel (02) 8822 2238 or 

send an email to deb.woolacott@ccss.org.au 

RECOVER Wellbeing 

Recovery oriented program and support 

groups for people living with mental distress 

Groups being run in Western Sydney and the 

Blue Mountains during May 

For further 

information call 

(02) 8822 2222 

Hope 

Connection 

and 

Wellbeing 

Volunteering at CatholicCare 

Would you like to make a difference in the local 

community? 

Would you like to learn new skills and meet new people? 

Whether you are 18 or 81, and if you are interested in 

making a difference, you can volunteer with many of the 

services CatholicCare provides. 

Basic office administration, site maintenance (mowing 

lawns/repairs), spending one hour a week helping young 

children with their homework, or chatting with an elderly 

person are some of the ways you can make a difference. 

Volunteer Coordinator for CatholicCare, Kim Manouk 

said volunteers are needed for many services within the 

organisation, especially Blacktown Neighbour Aid, Mamre 

Creche and the All Saints of Africa Centre (homework 

support). 

"The more volunteers we have, the more people we can 

support in the community,” Kim said. “Research shows 

that volunteers live happier and healthier lives and they 

make a difference in a person's life." 

For further information about volunteering in any of our 

services or to become a volunteer at CatholicCare please 

contact, tel (02) 8822 2222 or send an email to Kim. 

Manouk@ccss.org.au 

NATURAL 

Accredited Fertility Educators of Natural Fertility to speak 

on how to naturally achieve and space pregnancies 

FREE ENTRY and a light supper will be served 

Please register your attendance to: 

email nfs@ccss.org.au 

or phone (02) 8822 2222 

Fertility 

A W A R E N E S S E V E N I N G 

Wednesday 4 May | 7.30pm 

Holy Spirit Parish St Clair 

5 Todd Row, cnr Moore St, St Clair 

Young Mums’ Group ̶ education and support for young 

mums under 25 years. From 3 May to 21 June, 10.30am- 

12.30pm, CCSS Centre, 38 Prince St, Blacktown. Free. 

Lunch provided. Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Black Dog Institute REACH Program – if you are living 

with mental distress, the REACH Wellbeing group is running 

soon in the Blue Mountains and has helped many people 

manage their wellbeing. From 3 May to 28 June, 6.30pm- 

8.30pm, Springwood Drop-In Centre, 3/163 Macquarie Rd, 

Springwood. Tel (02) 4751 4956. 

Young Parent Network Event ̶ Youth Rez invites young 

parents and organisations working with young parents in the 

Blacktown and Hills LGAs to this event on 22 June, 9.30am- 

1.30pm, Boomerang Room, Rooty Hill RSL, 33 Railway St, 

Rooty Hill. Tel 0488 711 909, Kerry.Calgiore@ccss.org.au 

All Saints of Africa Playgroup/Mums’ Group ̶ Thursdays 

(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. Social interaction, support and 

friendship for mums. Tel (02) 8822 2250. 

Post Separation Recovery Program ̶ this program is 

open to anyone wanting to move forward from their 

marriage breakdown in a positive way. Seven sessions held 

over seven consecutive Wednesdays, 11 May to 22 June, 

7.30pm-9.45pm, CCSS Office, 38 Prince St, Blacktown. 

Cost $80. Fee $80. Bookings essential, tel (02) 8822 2222, 

soloparentservices@ccss.org.au 

Seminar – Annulment Information Night ̶ guest speaker 

Very Rev Peter Blayney. Tuesday 3 May, 7.30pm-9.30pm, 

CCSS Centre, 38 Prince St, Blacktown. Cost $7. Registrations 

essential, tel (02) 8822 2222, 

soloparentservices@ccss.org.au 

Aboriginal Catholic Services ̶ groups commencing in May 

include Problem Gambling Support Group, Tutoring Time – 

free Literacy Tutoring for Kindergarten – Year 6, Playgroup, 

RECOVER Wellbeing Groups including Sew 4 Wellbeing, 

Create 4 Wellbeing, Dance 4 Wellbeing. Holy Family Parish, 

254 Luxford Rd, Emerton. Tel (02) 9628 0084. 

Keeping Kids in Mind program ̶ supports parents and 

families after separation. Five sessions weekly, starts 

Monday 9 May, from 6pm-8.30pm. CCSS Parramatta, 

2A Villiers St, Parramatta. Fee $100 (includes handbook). 

Bookings essential. Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

My Kids and Me ̶ for parents whose children are in out-ofhome 

care or kinship care. Fridays from 10am-1pm, 

St Nicholas of Myra Parish Hall, 326 High St, Penrith. 

Bookings essential. Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Rollercoasters for Kids ̶ support for children whose parents 

have separated or are separating. Mondays from 4pm- 

5.15pm, six sessions weekly from 30 May. CCSS Centre, 38 

Prince St, Blacktown. Bookings essential. 

Tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Cool Little Kids ̶ support for families of pre-school aged 

children who are experiencing high levels of anxiety. 

Information session Tuesday 14 June, 7pm-9pm. Winmalee 

Community Preschool, 56 White Cross Rd, Winmalee. 

Bookings essential, tel (02) 4751 4956 or email 

springwood@ccss.org.au 

Seminar – Dealing with the Legal System ̶ gain a greater 

understanding of how to deal effectively with the legal 

system. Guest speaker Mr Richard Brading (Principal 

Solicitor, Wesley Legal Service). Tuesday 7 June, 7.30pm- 

9.30pm, CCSS Centre, 38 Prince St, Blacktown. Cost $7. To 

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

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



DIOCESE CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY 

DIOCESAN 

SNAPSHOT 

1986: Pope John Paul II signs 

decree on 8 April to establish the 

Diocese of Parramatta. 

1986: Most Rev Bede Heather 

installed as first Bishop of Parramatta 

on 19 May. 

1986: Rev Peter Lamont ordained 

first priest for the Diocese on 22 

November. 

1986: Diocesan Tribunal of the 

Catholic Church established. 

1986: Pope John Paul II visits 

Transfield Factory in Seven Hills. 

1987: Ann Clark appointed 

first Executive Director of Catholic 

Education. 

1988: St Madeleine Sophie Barat’s 

Parish established at Kenthurst. 

1988: Diocesan Development Fund 

established. 

1990: Sr Caroline Ryan RSM and 

Sr Megan Brock RSJ first chaplains to 

UWS. 

1992: Corpus Christi Parish 

established at Cranebrook; parishes 

of Katoomba and Leura combined to 

make Mary MacKillop Parish of the 

Upper Blue Mountains, now St Mary of 

the Cross MacKillop Parish. 

1996: St Patrick’s Cathedral 

destroyed by fire. 

1997: Most Rev Bede Heather 

resigns. 

1997: Most Rev Kevin Manning 

installed as 2nd Bishop of Parramatta 

on 21 August. 

2002: Blessed John XXII Parish, 

Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens, 

established on 6 October. 

2003: Bicentenary of the first 

official Mass in Parramatta on 22 May 

1803. 

2003: St Patrick’s Cathedral 

reopens on 29 November. 

2004: Sr Helen Stannard RSM 

and Sr Mary White RSM first religious 

professions in rebuilt St Patrick’s 

Cathedral. 

By Sr Margaret Sheppard RSM 



Celebrating 30 years since the Diocese 

of Parramatta was established 

On 19 May this year, the Diocese will 

celebrate the 30th Anniversary of 

the installation of its first Bishop, 

Bishop Bede Heather, in 1986. 

Succeeding Bishop Heather were Bishop 

Kevin Manning (1996-2010) and Bishop 

Anthony Fisher (2010-2014). 

Established by Pope John Paul II on 8 

April 1986, the Diocese of Parramatta is the 

Catholic Church in Western Sydney and 

the Blue Mountains. 

Incorporating the greater Western 

Sydney area from Parramatta to Blackheath 

and from Richmond to Warragamba, the 

Diocese acknowledges the traditional 

custodians of the land, the Darug people 

and pays respect to its elders past and 

present. 

Home to 330,000 Catholics in an area 

of 1,050,000 people, the Diocese hosts 

47 parishes, educates more than 45,000 

students across its 83 schools, employs 

more than 5000 staff and cares for 

thousands of people in need through its 

social services arm, CatholicCare Social 

Services. 

The Diocese of Parramatta is the fifthlargest 

Catholic Diocese in Australia. 

St Patrick’s Cathedral is the symbolic 

heart of the Diocese of Parramatta – a 

dynamic centre of worship, prayer, 

community and mission. 

Today an iconic physical landmark 

of the City of Parramatta skyline, the 

Foundation Stone for St Patrick’s was laid 

more than 170 years ago, on St Patrick’s 

Day 1836. 

When the Diocese of Parramatta was 

established 150 years later in 1986, St 

Patrick’s was designated as the Cathedral of 

the new Diocese. 

In fact, most parishes within the 

Diocese of Parramatta are older than 

the Diocese itself. Parramatta parish was 

established in 1827, Windsor in 1832 and 

Penrith in 1839, while Rouse Hill was 

formed in 2007. 

The Diocese nurtures the spiritual lives 

of the hundreds of thousands of Catholics 

in its care, and supports thousands more in 

the local community. 

Its Catholic education system is 

committed to giving every student a quality 

education, while CatholicCare and its other 

agencies and ministries work alongside 

local people and organisations committed 

to enhancing the way of life we enjoy in 

Western Sydney. 

As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, 

may we look to our Patroness, St Mary 

of the Cross MacKillop, and pray for her 

intercession. 

Evoking memories of the early years 

The Sisters of Mercy Parramatta celebrated their centenary year in 1988. 

It was a memorable year: a year that 

beckoned me and opened new horizons 

beyond principalship at St Anne’s Bondi 

Beach to St Patrick’s Primary School in 

Blacktown. 

Simultaneously, I was to be inextricably 

connected with the vision and creation of 

the Diocese of Parramatta. 

For us as Sisters of Mercy Parramatta, 

being part of the newly created Diocese 

had a certain sense of ‘Lord, it is good to 

be here’ as Parramatta and its surrounding 

At a dinner to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of the Diocese of Parramatta in 2011 were Bishop Kevin Manning, 

Bishop Anthony Fisher OP and Bishop Bede Heather. 

suburbs were becoming increasingly 

populated with Catholic families with their 

multicultural richness and diversity. 

Parramatta had its own rich Indigenous 

and colonial history, so it appeared ‘right 

and fitting’ for a Parramatta Diocese to 

stand in its own ‘shoes’. 

In 1986, our Congregation numbered 

about 120 sisters living and ministering 

across Sydney and one in Melbourne. Of 

these, more than 50 sisters were living 

and ministering within the newly formed 

Diocese. 

Remaining true to the charism of 

our foundress, Venerable Catherine 

McAuley, whose vision was to serve the 

poor, the sick, the uneducated and the 

vulnerable, approximately 19 Sisters were 

residing in our ‘Mother House’, serving 

within the Parish of Parramatta, as well 

as in administration in Our Lady of 

Mercy College Parramatta and in various 

ministries in and around the Parramatta 

area. 

What is different 30 years after the 

creation of the Diocese of Parramatta? 

Well, our Founding House still sits 

firmly in its original setting opposite St 

Patrick’s Cathedral, and our ministries 

are still very diverse and fitting within 

our religious order’s call to serve the poor, 

uneducated, sick and vulnerable. 

Some sisters still serve within primary 

schools in various supportive ministries, 

others in our congregation’s works, others 

in visitation of the sick and dying, others in 

support of and education of asylum seekers 

and refugees, others in prayer ministry, 

nursing, administration and care for each 

other as we age. 

In 1986, I was filled with excitement and 

hope. Hope remains that the now 30-yearold 

Diocese will continue to respond to 

the clarion call to action by Pope Francis’ 

personal witness to the Gospel values.

DIOCESE CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY 

In 1986, Pope John Paul II visited the Transfield Factory in Seven Hills. 

In 2003, we marked the bicentenary of the first official Mass celebrated by Fr James Dixon in 

Parramatta on 22 May 1803. 

In 2013, Bishop Anthony Fisher OP led our young people 

on a diocesan pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Rio de 

Janeiro. 

On 19 February 1996, St Patrick’s Cathedral was 

destroyed by fire. The rebuilt Cathedral was dedicated 

on 29 November 2003. 

The new church of Blessed John XXIII Church at Glenwood- 

Stanhope Gardens was dedicated in 2007. In 1986, Pope John 

Paul II visited the Transfield Factory in Seven Hills. 

DIOCESAN 

SNAPSHOT 

2006: Clergy Support Foundation 

established. 

2007: Parochial District of Rouse 

Hill established. 

2010: Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP 

installed as 3rd Bishop of Parramatta. 

2010: Padre Pio Church at Glenmore 

Park blessed on 14 February. 

2011: Diocese secures part of Old 

King’s School site in Parramatta. 

2011: St Mary of the Cross MacKillop 

made patron of the Diocese. 

2012: Parramatta’s Rev Robert 

McGuckin VG appointed Bishop of 

Toowoomba. 

2012: Bishop Anthony Fisher OP 

institutes the Diocesan Medal of 

Honour. 

2013: Chapel of St Mary MacKillop 

opens in Parramatta CBD. 

2013: Seminary of the Holy Spirit 

established in Harris Park. 

2013: All Saints of Africa Centre 

opens in Blacktown. 

2013: Appeal for people impacted 

by devastating Blue Mountains’ 

bushfires. 

2014: The Diocesan Pastoral Plan, 

Faith in Our Future, launched. 

2014: Diocesan Family & Life Office 

established. 

2014: Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP 

appointed Archbishop of Sydney. 

2014: Very Rev Peter G Williams 

appointed Diocesan Administrator. 

2015: Inaugural Mass for World Day 

of the Sick. 

2015: 50th Anniversary of Marian 

Nursing Home. 

2015: Arrupe Place refugee centre 

opens in Parramatta. 

2016: St Luke’s Catholic College 

proposed for Marsden Park. 

Mass for the Silver Jubilee of the Diocese in 2011: 

our diverse migrant communities are a great 

demonstration of the universal Church. 

Interfaith dialogue: a Women of Faith Dinner was held in Parramatta on 31 May 2008. 



DIOCESAN WORKS FUND APPEAL: FAITH AT WORK 

Houses to Homes supporting young mums 

Louise Masters: “All babies and children have the right to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.” 

CatholicCare Social Services has a 

team of highly skilled and dedicated 

people who work in our Houses to 

Homes program. This service for pregnant 

girls or parenting young women who are 

homeless or at risk of homelessness offers: 

• Transitional semi-independent 

housing; 

• Referral pathways towards long-term 

stable housing solutions; 

• Case management support; 

• Access to brokerage; 

• Home visits to young mothers and 

their babies; 

• Empowerment for independent living; 

• Access to parenting and living skills, 

employment and education; 

• Advocacy, support and referral; and 

• Assistance in 

accessing community 

resources. 

The demand for 

this service is constant. 

Vulnerable members 

of our community 

are afforded the 

opportunity that many 

of us take for granted. The service has four 

full-time staff, with Louise Masters heading 

the team. 

“All babies and children have the right 

to lead a healthy and fulfilling life with safe 

and secure housing and early intervention,” 

Louise said. “We are committed to 

providing the best service possible so this 

can be achieved.” 

A recent example of a case where 

the team at Houses to Home (H2H) has 

intervened and provided much-needed 

support is below. For privacy reasons, 

names have been changed. For more 

information about this service, please 

contact CatholicCare tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Kate’s story 

Kate was referred to H2H by a Family & 

Community Services caseworker. She had 

been residing with her mother and extended 

family, however, the house was overcrowded 

and there were domestic violence issues. 

Kate and her two children were 

rehoused by H2H staff into a private rental 

property near her mother’s home. This gave 

her support that was close by, as well as 

ongoing support from H2H. Kate was given 

assistance to move in with some furniture, 

OzHarvest food packages and Woolworths 

Essentials cards. 

Staff noted that Kate’s daughter appeared 

to have some developmental delays and 

Kate explained that she was trying to have 

her daughter assessed. Staff assisted her to 

complete the necessary forms. 

Her daughter was referred to and 

accepted into the Home Interaction 

Program for Parents and Youngsters 

(HIPPY). She also attended two days a week 

at the local daycare centre. 

Since Kate’s daughter commenced an 

early intervention program, her social 

skills have improved and she is sharing and 

playing. 

This has led to a change in Kate’s mood 

and has given her the opportunity to spend 

Bulk Billing for GP Services 

more time with her younger son. It also gave 

her the chance to commence selling makeup 

as she has an avid interest in makeup 

artistry and beauty. 

Understanding that Kate had this great 

interest, our H2H caseworker approached 

her with an opportunity to complete a 

certificate course through TAFE. Her son is 

now in daycare two days a week so Kate can 

attend TAFE. 

Kate was thrilled to enrol, stating that 

upon completion, she would be the first 

member of her family to complete any type 

of course and receive a certificate. 

She was chosen to represent her class to 

apply makeup on models at the Royal Easter 

Show. She took along her mother and it was 

a very proud moment for them both. 

Her children are improving in all aspects 

of development. Kate has increased her 

social circle and now has adults with whom 

she can chat and become friends. Her entire 

disposition has changed and improved. 

Kate has maintained her tenancy for 

approaching 12 months. She has a Start 

Safely Private Rental Subsidy for short-term 

financial help so she does not have to return 

to her previous violent situation. 

Kate was asked recently if she would 

like to continue with her study and go on to 

complete her diploma. She accepted and is 

excited to continue on her adventure. 

Your donations to this month’s DWF 

Appeal with the theme Faith at Work will 

help to fund CatholicCare programs like 

Houses to Homes. To make an online 

donation visit: www.faithatwork.org.au 

MEDICAL CENTRE OPENING HOURS 

Monday-Friday 9.00am-6.00pm 

Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm 

CLOSED SUNDAYS 

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY 

DOCTOR HOME VISITS AND AFTER 

HOURS SERVICES AVAILABLE 

Parking on-site available 

Pathology on premises 

DOCTORS AND PHYSIOTHERAPIST 

DR. ARUNTHA JESUTHASAN (Female GP) 

DR. CHARLES HAYES (Male GP) 

DR. VAN NGUYEN (Male GP) 

DILHAN JAYAMANNE (Physiotherapist) 

FREE 

FLU VACCINES AVAILABLE! 

For people: 

• Aged 65 years & over 

• Pregnant women 

• Anyone with a medical condition 

Otherwise from $11 

DENTIST 

Natural Family 

Planning is 

Available in the 

Surgery 

(DR GARIMA MALHOTRA) 

• Free initial check-up 

• Veterans’ Affairs cover 

• Dental X-rays 

• Medicare Bulk Billing 

- for eligible children aged 

between 2 and 17 years of age 

Benefits up to $1000/child 

• 10% discount for seniors 

and pensioners 

• Patients from all funds welcome 

- Health fund claims on the spot 

MEDICAL CENTRE 

81– 83 Richmond Rd, Blacktown, NSW | 9622 1998 



DIOCESAN WORKS FUND APPEAL: FAITH AT WORK 

Daina Caruana from the Ephpheta Centre signs during Mass in Blacktown. Photo: Alfred Boudib. 

Ephpheta Centre supports 

Catholic deaf community 

T 

he 

Ephpheta Centre provides services 

for the Catholic deaf community in 

Sydney. 

The centre organises Mass which is 

accessible for the deaf on the third Sunday 

of each month at 11am at Our Lady of 

Lourdes Church, 7 Grantham Road, Seven 

Hills. 

The centre is a special ministry of the 

Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney and is also 

supported by the dioceses of Parramatta 

and Broken Bay. Parramatta’s seminarians 

undertake pastoral placements at the 

Ephpheta Centre. 

Donations to this month’s DWF Appeal 

help to fund the work of the centre, which 

includes pastoral care, sacramental services, 

support and advocacy. Visitation is an 

important part of their work. 

They provide religious and social 

services for the signing-deaf, oral-deaf and 

hard of hearing and those who have lost 

hearing through age and industrial deafness. 

They visit members of the deaf 

community who confined to their homes, 

nursing homes, hospitals, the lonely and 

also people in prison. 

Your donations to this month’s DWF 

Appeal with the theme Faith at Work will 

help to fund the work of the Ephpheta 

Centre. To make an online donation visit: 

www.faithatwork.org.au 

Talkward: Taking the awkward out 

of talking about problem gambling 

Living with a 

gambling addiction 

can be a nightmare 

– mounting debts, lost 

friends, employment 

problems. But those who 

pay the highest price are frequently the 

partners, family and friends of problem 

gamblers. 

As well as suffering financial loss, 

they can also experience loss of trust and 

feelings of betrayal as well as relationship 

breakdown. 

Through Gambling Help and its 

partners, including CatholicCare Social 

Services, free counselling and new resources 

are available to assist people impacted by 

problem gambling. 

CatholicCare counsellor Linda Davis 

said one of the biggest challenges can be 

raising the issue. “It can be a very awkward 

thing to do. People are often afraid that 

mentioning someone’s gambling problem 

may damage their relationship with that 

person.” 

During Responsible Gambling 

Awareness Week from 23-27 May, 

CatholicCare will be helping to launch two 

major resources – a catchy, animated e-card 

campaign, Talkward, and a booklet aimed at 

helping family and friends who have been 

impacted. 

Talkward is designed to help break 

through the stigma and encourage open 

dialogue between gamblers and their 

families and friends. 

The e-cards, which can be customised 

and personalised, humorously focus on a 

thorny subject but carry a serious message: 

now we’ve got the awkward bit out of the 

way, let’s have a talk in real life. 

To access the e-card, go to 

talkward.com.au Free copies of 

m 

Responsible Gambling 

Awareness Week: 23-27 May 

the booklet can be ordered from: 

gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au/need-help/ 

downloads-and-orders/?need-help. 

CatholicCare Problem Gambling 

Counselling and Groups 

Our client John* contacted CatholicCare 

after his son approached him and suggested 

he had a problem with gambling. John 

called Gambling Help and they directed 

him to CatholicCare. After three or four 

sessions, John had reduced his gambling 

significantly. 

His message to anybody who may 

identify as a problem gambler is: “Contact 

Gambling Help or CatholicCare Social 

Services for counselling. Staff were 

welcoming and counselling is provided 

in a stress-free environment, without 

judgement.” 

John said he is better able to give his 

attention and focus to enjoying his family. 

He is planning to get a second job and has 

money in the bank for the first time in a 

long time. His wife and son are very happy 

as he comes straight home after work and is 

spending more time gardening and enjoying 

his life. 

*Not his real name. 

For more information about CatholicCare’s 

free Responsible Gambling Counselling 

Service tel (02) 8822 2222. 

Your donations to this month’s DWF Appeal 

with the theme Faith at Work will help to 

fund CatholicCare’s programs and services. 

To make an online donation visit: 

www.faithatwork.org.au 

DON’T MAKE THE TALK AWKWARD 

Together, let’s make the conversation 

about problem gambling a little less awkward. 

Start the conversation today. 

VISIT TALKWARD.COM.AU 



KOREAN CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 

Korean chaplaincy crosses cultural divide 


There is a great beauty in the varied face 

of the Catholic Church. Diverse migrant 

communities make up the Diocese of 

Parramatta, each with their own traditions and 

customs that merge in a great demonstration of 

the universal Church. 

Fr Stephen Hyun Sangok, Korean Chaplain 

for the Diocese of Parramatta, and Michael 

Lim, President of the Korean Chaplaincy, 

believe migrant chaplaincies enable parishes to 

celebrate cultural differences and similarities. 

The chaplaincy, based at Our Lady of 

Lourdes Church, Baulkham Hills, runs a 

Korean Language School on Saturdays at 

7.30pm and a Bible Study class on Sundays 

from 9.30am-noon. 

“We are very grateful that the Diocese 

supports the chaplaincy and that they have also 

allowed Fr Stephen to work with us,” Michael 

said. 

Fr Stephen celebrates the 7.30pm Saturday 

Vigil Mass and the 11am Sunday Mass in 

the Korean language at Our Lady of Lourdes 

Church. 

“There are language barriers. Some 

parishioners cannot speak English fluently and 

even if they understand in part, they do not 

fully grasp the homily, so we ask Fr Stephen to 

help us in deepening our faith,” Michael said. 

The chaplaincy creates a space for Korean 

parishioners to come together. However, 

Fr Stephen acknowledges the need for the 

chaplaincy to be an open community. 

“Some Australians may look at the Korean 

Chaplaincy and think, ‘Why are they so 

exclusive?’ But that is not the case. There is a 

natural intimacy and we are very close, but we 

are not exclusive,” Fr Stephen said. 

“We are open. We want people who are 

not Korean to gather with us and attend our 

Korean Language School, Bible Study classes 

and masses. Everyone is welcome. 

“I am not here just to serve the Korean 

Chaplaincy. I am here to serve the whole 

Church.” 

The Diocese of Parramatta is among the 

most multi-ethnic and multicultural in the 

world. One-quarter of the Catholics in our 

Diocese were born overseas in a non-Englishspeaking 

country (25.5%) and more than onequarter 

of our Catholics speak a language other 

than English at home (28.4%). 

Many migrants share the Catholic faith 

and enrich the life of the Diocese through their 

witness and participation in parish life and 

The chaplaincy creates a space for Korean parishioners to come together. 

other forms of Christian community. 

Fr Pio Yong Ho Jang is the first Koreanborn 

priest to be ordained for the Diocese of 

Parramatta. 

Migrant chaplaincies bridge the gap 

between cultural divides, promoting a stronger 

connection through the one shared faith. 

They provide migrants with familiar 

cultural expressions of the faith, addressing 

the need for the mystery of Christ to be 

proclaimed, celebrated and lived out at all times 

and in all places. 

As time passes, the focus of a chaplaincy 

shifts to assisting migrants, especially younger 

generations, in becoming more active 

participants in the life of their local parish. 

“The Korean Chaplaincy is not separate 

from the Diocese. We belong to the Diocese,” 

Michael explained. “Many Korean parishioners 

are still involved in the wider parish. I used to 

be an acolyte for the Church.” 

In welcoming people from overseas, our 

parishes, schools, agencies and individual 

members are mindful of the rich cultures, 

traditions and experiences that migrants bring 

to their new home. 

“At the end of the day, we are part of the 

same Catholic Faith, which teaches us to love 

one another. It doesn’t matter if you are Korean 

or Australian, when we are part of the same 

faith we will always have a natural connection,” 

Michael said. 

Fr Stephen Hyun Sangok and Michael Lim believe migrant chaplaincies enable parishes to celebrate cultural differences 

and similarities. Photo: Elizabeth McFarlane. 

Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy 

Penrose Park 

Fatima Day: Friday 13 May 

Come and pray for your family and the world at large! 

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

Devotions at Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. 

Principal Celebrant: Fr George Condookala 

Parish Priest at Port Kembla 



Upcoming celebrations in our shrine 

Solemnity of Our Lady Help of Christians: Tuesday 24 May 

11am - Solemn Mass followed by Devotions 

The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ: Sunday 29 May 

11am - Solemn Mass followed by Procession 

Pauline Father’s Monastery 

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

Email: paulinefathers@yahoo.com.au 

Website: www.penrosepark.com.au

Mercy of God in 

Schoenstatt Sister’s life 


Sister Thomasine at the Schoenstatt Shrine at Mulgoa where the annual Marian Pilgrimage will take place on 20 May. 

Photos: Elizabeth McFarlane. 

Sister Thomasine Treese ISSM is the new 

Superior of the Australian-Philippine 

Province of the Secular Institute of the 

Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary. 

Growing up near Koblenz in Germany 

during World War II, her parents had to “turn 

every penny around” after the family home was 

destroyed. 

“We had no car and no house. We had 

nothing and after my younger brother was 

born, we had to start from the beginning,” she 

explained. 

Despite financial struggles and the storms 

and hardships of life, her parents were devoutly 

religious, preparing the way for the decision of 

Sr Thomasine and her older sister to join the 

Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary. 

Sr Thomasine holds a Bachelor of Arts 

in Elementary Education and Theology, a 

Calling for nominations 

for 3 diocesan awards 

Nominations are now open for three diocesan awards: 

The Diocesan Medal of Honour 

The Diocesan Medal of Honour seeks to encourage 

and recognise outstanding contribution and service 

by members of the Parramatta diocesan community 

in work on behalf of the Church and society. The 

Diocesan Medal of Honour is awarded for outstanding 

service to parish, Diocese and community. 

The Diocesan Citation of Merit for Youth 

The Diocesan Citation of Merit for Youth seeks to 

encourage and recognise youth between the ages of 18 

and 25 who have shown outstanding contribution and 

service to the parish, Diocese and community. 

Licentiate in Canon Law and a Certificate of 

Accreditation as Postulator at the Congregation 

for the Cases of Saints in Rome. 

Now based in Mulgoa, Sr Thomasine has 

travelled extensively, having served as a 

missionary for several decades in the US and 

Europe. 

She brings a global insight to her role as 

Superior, with 30 years’ work experience 

in the new evangelisation of Milwaukee in 

Wisconsin (including eight years of work in 

the Archdiocesan Tribunal), 11 years working 

in the Vatican in the Secretariat of State, and 

as postulator for the cause of beatification of 

Schoenstatt sister, Sr Emilie Engel ISSM. 

Sr Thomasine explained that there are three 

major steps in a process of beatification. There 

is the opinion of the people about the quality 

of life of the Servant of God, the judgment of 

The Diocesan Certificate of Recognition 

Nominations close on 31 May 2016 

The Diocesan Certificate of Recognition seeks to 

encourage and recognise outstanding contribution by 

non-Catholic members of the Diocese of Parramatta 

community, for work supporting the parish, Diocese 

and community. 

An overview for how to make a nomination and 

notations are available from: 

Rev Dr Arthur Bridge AM PP 

Chairman of the Diocesan Honours 

Committee 

Tel (02) 9631 3316 

arthurbridge@arsmusica.org.au 

the Church and the action of God by granting 

a miracle. 

Sr Thomasine collected the documents and 

testimonies needed to prove that Sr Emilie 

Engel lived all virtues in an authentic and 

exemplary way. She wrote a study, a ‘Positio’ 

on Sr Emilie Engel’s life, which was submitted 

to the Congregation of Saints in Rome for 

appraisal. 

In May 2012, Pope Benedict XVI declared 

Sr Emilie Engel a Venerable Servant of God, 

signifying the fact that she has practised all 

virtues to a heroic degree. A miracle upon Sr 

Emilie’s intercession is still necessary for her to 

be beatified. 

“Contrary to the belief that you have to have 

a sensational life to be a saint, Sr Emilie Engel 

impressed people by that which she was,” Sr 

Thomasine said. 

“It was how she dealt with the many trials 

of her life and how she could follow God’s 

guidance. She spoke her unconditional ‘Yes, 

Father’ to His wish and will, even when it 

meant sitting paralysed in a wheelchair. It was 

her radiance that drew people to her. 

“Above all, Sr Emilie Engel said, ‘Yes, Father’ 

with a joyful attitude at all times. 

“My life is also a ‘yes’ and every day I have to 

ask myself, ‘Do I live my day with God or do I 

want to do everything myself?’” 

Sr Thomasine feels blessed to be working in 

Australia and is driven by the inner strength of 

Sr Emilie Engel. 

“It is wonderful to be able to look back on 

the many blessings of God in my life and I have 

learnt that as a leader, I must radiate God’s 

love,” she said. 

Working towards the annual Marian 

Pilgrimage, which will take place on Sunday 22 

May, the Sisters of Mary are also promoting the 

experience of a special indulgence in this Year 

of Mercy. 

NEWS & EVENTS 

The Schoenstatt Shrine at Mulgoa is home 

to a Holy Door of Mercy, and soon it will be 

adorned with a burst of autumn amber colour. 

Covered in vines, the small Shrine emulates 

the original Schoenstatt Shrine found in 

Vallendar in Germany where the International 

Schoenstatt Movement originated. 

Schoenstatt, meaning ‘beautiful place’, is a 

place to unite pilgrims with the vine and the 

vinedresser, revealing also through the external 

sign of the Holy Door, the role of Mary as 

handmaiden and doorway, bringing Christ into 

the world and thus, the mercies of God. 

“Just as Sr Emilie Engel summarised her 

life's experience shortly before her death, 

‘Throughout eternity, I want to sing a hymn of 

praise to the merciful love of the Father and the 

Mother.’ 

“Praise God for the mercies we have received, 

and as we have received the mercies of God, we 

ought to be merciful to others,” Sr Thomasine 

said. 

Sister Thomasine Treese ISSM. 

Week of Prayer for 

Christian Unity 

8-15 May 2016 

‘Called to proclaim the mighty acts 

of the Lord.’ (1 Peter 2:9) 

PENTECOST PARRAMATTA ECUMENICAL PRAYER NIGHT 

SATURDAY 14 MAY FROM 7PM TO 10PM 

On Pentecost Eve when the Body of Christ will unite and pray 

specifically for the needs of Parramatta. Come and pray with 

Christians from all denominations. Hosted by Transforming 

Sydney and the Parramatta Pastors Network. 

The Salvation Army, 34 Smith St, Parramatta 

Buses and limited street parking along Smith St and Phillip St. 

Close to Parramatta Station and Horword Place Council Carpark. 

Let us know you are coming and bring as many people as possible. 

We look forward to seeing you. 

RSVP Daryl Castellino, Diocese of Parramatta, Ecumenical 

Commission tel 0407 40 6668, DCastellino@parra.catholic.edu.au 

Ecumenical Prayer Resource for Schools 

The week leading up to Pentecost (8-15 May) is a time that the 

Catholic Church traditionally prays for Christian unity. A diocesan 

resource will be made available to help primary and secondary 

school communities to pray that all Christians may be one, 

in the Body of Christ. 



INTERFAITH DIALOGUE 

Journeying into the heart and mind of faith 

By Aoife Connors 

Spiritual leadership might look 

different in other faiths, but it 

is how we feel that is where we 

find our common language, Liska 

Turner told those gathered for 

afternoon tea to celebrate 10 years 

since the Office for the Participation 

of Women commenced its Young 

Catholic Women’s Interfaith 

Fellowship. 

The celebratory afternoon tea 

took place at the Mount St Benedict 

Centre in Pennant Hills on 26 

February this year with a number of 

invited guests and sponsors. 

Liska said a visit by the group 

to the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque 

had left a lasting impression. “The 

executive officer of the Muslim 

Women’s Association spoke 

passionately and eloquently about 

living as a covered Muslim woman 

of faith in today’s climate of anti- 

Islamic sentiments.” 

Along with 13 other women, 

Liska completed her third 

residential weekend of lectures 

and interfaith visits recently. These 

women now have one residential 

weekend to complete and a series of 

online modules before they qualify 

with a graduate diploma in theology 

from The Broken Bay Institute. 

These women are our future leaders 

in the church. 

“Our fellowship journey 

commenced with a visit from 

Graeme Mundine, from Aboriginal 

Catholic Ministry in Sydney,” Liska 

said. “He spoke to us in some depth 

about the evolution and history of 

our Church and our engagement 

with the Indigenous community. 

In particular, he focused on the 

enculturation of Indigenous 

spirituality into our Catholic 

traditions. 

“Sr Elizabeth Delaney SGS also 

spoke to us about the Church’s 

increasing openness to ecumenical 

dialogue and we’ve been blessed to 

have first-hand experience of this, 

visiting both a synagogue and a 

mosque.” 

Fellowship participant Helen 

Jacobs visited a synagogue during 

the previous residential weekend. 

“Looking through the lens of the 

other, I was instantly moved by 

the warm welcome offered by the 

progressive Jewish community at 

North Shore Temple,” she said. 

“I quietly applauded the sense of 

inclusion and equity created. A male 

and a female rabbi sitting in a circle 

with their companions and guests 

sharing in prayer and afterwards 

kitsch.” 

Vicky Burrows, another 

fellowship participant, described 

her Catholic faith as the “lens we 

look at other faiths through”, for 

example when visiting the Islamic 

community. “Our lens grounds us in 

our tradition and our faith,” Vicky 

said. 

A visit to the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque left a lasting impression on the group. 

“One of the great things about 

the residential element is that we 

have to connect as a community, 

whether that’s online, over the 

phone or face to face. For some, 

we haven’t studied in 20 years; 

for others, we’ve just come out 

of university, so the community 

component is important.” 

Christine Pace said that learning 

about the spectrum and diversity 

of the Church has encouraged and 

inspired her because she could see 

that there were other young Catholic 

women like her. 

For Sally McEniry, discovering 

the faith traditions of others 

has assisted her in recognising 

the complementarity of other 

traditions while strengthening her 

commitment and understanding of 

the Church. 

All of the current participants 

reiterated that since the fellowship 

was funded by the Australian 

Catholic Bishops and the religious 

orders in Australia, the Church 

values and recognises the 

contribution of young Catholic 

women in the Church. 

Hosted at the Mount St Benedict 

Centre at Pennant Hills, both 

Sr Elizabeth Brennan SGS and 

Christine Manning continue to 

warmly welcome the fellowship 

participants during their residential 

experiences. “We hope that this 

special place nourishes their soul 

and gives them a greater sense of 

peace, upon leaving,” Sr Elizabeth 

said. 

Originally published on the 

media blog of the Australian 

Catholic Bishops Conference at 

http://mediablog.catholic.org.au/ 

Diocesan Development Fund 

Catholic Diocese of Parramatta 

Put those you love 

in the hands 

of those who care 

Supporting the 

growing needs of the 

institutions and agencies within 

the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta 

www.parra.catholic.org.au/ddf 

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. 

Sydney (02) 9519 5344 | Parramatta (02) 9687 1072 

wnbull@wnbull.com | www.wnbull.com.au 



MAY CALENDAR 

Mother’s Day Concert 

ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL, 1 MARIST PLACE, PARRAMATTA 

Thinking of a gift for Mum this Mother's Day? 

Why not take her to a music concert? 

Enjoy the music of Beethoven, Mozart, Handel and 

Schubert. Hear sacred motets in honour of our Blessed 

Mother and much more. 

End the afternoon with a cup of tea and some sweet and 

savoury delights. 

Booking with the Cathedral Parish Office 

tel (02) 8839 8400, mili@stpatscathedral.com.au 

7 

7 

8 

8 

13 

14 

15 

22 

SR HELEN PREJEAN CSJ IN CONVERSATION 

Sr Helen is a prominent defender of life, ministering to men and women on death row in the US 

and challenging the death penalty, as portrayed in the film Dead Man Walking. Sr Helen will be live 

from New Orleans via Skype to speak on the topic ‘The Consistent Ethic of Life’, which centres on 

the Church’s pro-life perspective at all stages in the human lifecycle, from birth to natural death. In 

conversation with Fr David Ranson VG, a focus of the discussion will be on the mercy of God, and how 

we can show God’s merciful face to others. From 10.15am-12.15pm, The Light of Christ Centre, end 

of Yardley Ave, Waitara. RSVP by 3 May: www.trybooking.com/KMEZ 

or registrations@dbb.org.au (02) 9847 0448, (02) 4332 9825. 

REFLECTION DAY FOR WOMEN 

Presented by Sr M Isabell Naumann ISSM. Topic: ‘Give me a Drink (Jn 4:7) – Charity and Mercy’. 

All women are invited to attend this day where we will reflect on the gifts of God’s merciful love and 

charity. Cost: $25, BYO lunch (morning & afternoon tea provided). The day will include Holy Mass and 

the opportunity for reconciliation. Mt Schoenstatt Spirituality Centre, 230 Fairlight Rd, Mulgoa. Details 

tel (02) 4773 8338, movtoffice@schoenstatt.org.au 

ORDINATION OF GEORGE BRYAN AS DEACON 

Everyone is invited to the ordination of George Bryan as a permanent deacon at the 11am Mass in St 

Patrick's Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. 

MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT 

Thinking of a gift for mum this Mother's Day? Why not take her to a music concert at St Patrick’s 

Cathedral, Parramatta? Starts 3pm. Enjoy the music of Beethoven, Mozart, Handel and Schubert. 

Hear sacred motets in honour of our Blessed Mother and much more. End the afternoon with a cup 

of tea and some sweet and savoury delights. Bookings: Cathedral Parish tel (02) 8839 8400, mili@ 

stpatscathedral.com.au 

MASS FOR NEOPHYTES 

Mass at 7.30pm in St Patrick's Cathedral, Parramatta. 

PENTECOST ECUMENICAL 

PRAYER NIGHT 

On Pentecost Eve you are invited to pray with Christians from all denominations specifically for the 

needs of Parramatta. From 7pm-10pm at The Salvation Army, 34 Smith St, Parramatta. RSVP Daryl 

Castellino, Diocese of Parramatta, Ecumenical Commission tel 0407 40 6668, DCastellino@parra. 

catholic.edu.au 

PENTECOST CELEBRATION 

‘Perfect Love Casts Out All Fear (1 Jn 4:18). Come and hear how to be transformed from fearful to 

powerful. The Catholic Charismatic Renewal NSW and the Emmaus Prayer Community invite you 

to a Pentecost celebration at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, 198 Old Prospe ct Rd, Greystanes. 

Program: 11.30am worship, Mass at noon celebrated by Fr David Callaghan MGL, 1.30pm BBQ lunch, 

2.30pm healing ministry. Inquiries: Merv tel (02) 9634 1654, www.ccrnsw.org.au 

MARIAN PILGRIMAGE AT MT SCHOENSTATT 

Experience the special indulgence that may be obtained in one of the designated Doors of Mercy 

in this Jubilee Year of Mercy at the Shrine of Mt Schoenstatt on the Annual Marian Pilgrimage. 

Celebrations begin at 10am with Mass at 10.30am and Eucharistic Procession and Benediction from 

the valley to the Shrine at 2pm. Alternative program for the sick and elderly. Mt Schoenstatt, 230 

Fairlight Rd, Mulgoa, tel (02) 4773 8338, www.schoenstatt.org.au 

For more events please go to: 

http://parracatholic.org/events/ 

Thursday 19 May 2016 

Holy Hour for Vocations 

St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta 

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 

“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 ..................................................... 

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

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

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



You can donate using the DWF Appeal envelope or donate online at www.faithatwork.org.au 

Pastoral car e a ppeal 

theLMent.com 

Catholic Diocese 

of Parramatta 

‘But someone will say, “You have faith and I have 

works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, 

and I by my works will show you my faith'. James 2:18 

DIOCESAN WORKS FUND 

B U ILD I N G SER V ICES LOCAL LY T O MAK E A CR ITI CAL D IFFERENCE I N PEO PLE’S LIVE S

Catholic Outlook May 2016

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?