Catholic Outlook Magazine | Advent | Summer 2022 Issue

M A G A Z I N E
Christmas traditions in the Diocese of Parramatta I A family Advent calendar to make
A local guide to Christmas shopping I Unexpected sources of wisdom and strength
Marriage as a celebration at Christmas I A community of friends at Our Lady of the Nativity, Lawson
Advent | Summer 2022

Imprimatur and Publisher:
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
(02) 8838 3400
PO Box 3066,
North Parramatta, NSW, 1750
bishop@parracatholic.org
www.catholicoutlook.org
Editor & Vicar for Communication:
Br Mark O’Connor FMS
(02) 8838 3400
PO Box 3066,
North Parramatta, NSW, 1750
comms@parracatholic.org
Senior Communications Manager:
Christina Gretton
Communications Officer:
Mary Brazell
Nihil Obstat:
Fr Wim Hoekstra
Accounts:
Alfie Ramirez
(02) 8838 3437
alfie.ramirez@parracatholic.org
Printing:
IVE Group Australia Pty Ltd
All material in this publication is copyright and
may not be reproduced without permission
of the publisher. 8,500 copies are printed and
distributed to 47 parishes, after school care
centres and early learning centres in Western
Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
Catholic Outlook is a member of the
Australasian Catholic Press Association.
© Diocese of Parramatta 2022
Christmas artwork by Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann
The Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains sits on the
land of the Darug and Gundungurra people. We pay our respects to
the Aboriginal elders past, present, emerging and future.
The Miriam Rose Foundation is a charity dedicated to improving lives and
creating opportunities for a brighter future for Indigenous children and
youth. You can support the Foundation’s work at
miriamrosefoundation.org.au
The Diocese of Parramatta reaffirms the
wise axiom attributed to Saint Augustine of
Hippo, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials,
freedom; in all things, charity.” In this spirit,
Catholic Outlook publishes a variety of
Catholic viewpoints. They are not necessarily
the official views of the Diocese of Parramatta.
Cover Image: The children of Ambrose School Age Care
Harris Park helped us get ready to celebrate Christmas
this year. Back from left: Melaia-Grace, Elijah, Amara and
Anthony. Front: Xavier and Savannah.
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.

From Bishop Vincent
Dear friends,
Welcome to our Advent edition of Catholic Outlook,
the magazine of the Diocese of Parramatta. As
members of our faith community in Western Sydney
and the Blue Mountains, this is a magazine for you.
Here we share the inspiring stories of the people in
our community, as well as reflections that can bring
us closer to each other and to God.
For me, Christmas is a time of thinking about the
peace that Jesus of Nazareth proclaimed while He
was here on Earth.
He became one of us as one of the most vulnerable
beings – a newborn homeless baby. In this edition,
we reflect on that concept – what can we learn
from Jesus’ example of being vulnerable? At the
same time, as we further reflect on the Christmas
story and the visit of the Wise Men at Epiphany, our
understanding of wisdom grows. The story of the
Magi putting their faith in following the stars to the
infant Jesus, then falling to their knees in front of
Him, demonstrates how our wisdom and faith comes
not from control or selfishness, but being open
to the Spirit.
We explain the Australian Church’s social justice
message on domestic violence. My own Christmas
message on page 10 outlines the urgent need of our
world to embrace peace and love for our brothers
and sisters who share this world with us.
The wonderful saint, and great witness to peace, St
Francis of Assisi, was the first person to celebrate
Christmas by setting up a nativity scene. He wanted
people to better understand the extraordinary story
that Christmas is of a vulnerable baby in the poorest
of circumstances, who was sent to bring us into
union with God, one another and indeed all creation.
As you look on your own nativity scene at home or
at your parish, I invite you to reflect on its message
of peace.
I wish you and your family a joyous Christmas!
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
We also look at how the people of our Church are
responding to the vulnerable: from homeless elderly
people, to those who need our help putting food on
the table, even those whose advocacy has helped
ensure our church buildings are accessible to those
in wheelchairs.
01

Belong
BE WELCOMED | BE VALUED | BE CONFIDENT
Your local Catholic
school is enrolling
now for 2024
Visit www.parra.catholic.edu.au today to find your local Catholic school and join one of our
caring, faith-filled communities.
From the beginning of 2023, Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta will be known as Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd.

We’ve created this Advent calendar to help you and your family prepare for Christmas.
A
Advent Calendar
36 14
Step 1 – Cut out both pages from the magazine.
Step 2 – With a blade and ruler cut around the 3 dotted lines of each door leaving it attached on the left side.
Step 3 – Put glue on the blue and glue Page B to the back of Page A.
Step 4 – Open a door a day and complete the action to help you prepare for Christmas.
Merry Christmas
18
From the Diocese of Parramatta, the Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains
20
On the Inside
Advent | Summer 2022
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04 OutlookLooks
08 Short & Sweet
09 Prayer
10 Bishop Vincent’s
Christmas message
12 What’s your Christmas
tradition?
14 Celebrating Parish Milestones
16 Celebrating our local servants
of the People of God
18 A family Advent
calendar to make
20 Christmas is a time to
celebrate your marriage
22 An open pantry door
24 ‘Class of 2022’
share life lessons
26 Digital pilgrims take the
virtual road to encounter
28 When Christmas is
a time of fear
30 Community hero
honoured with new
accessible playspace
32 Looking Deeper
34 Falling downward
36 Epiphany
38 Jesus: the vunerable
face of God
40 A cuppa with the priest: Fr Paul
Slyney, Parish Priest, Our Lady
of the Nativity Parish, Lawson
42 Parish Profile: Our Lady of the
Nativity Parish, Lawson
44 Breaking the cycle of
homeless in our community
46 Closing the early years learning
gap one traineeship at a time
48 Christmas gift ideas
50 Watch and Listen
51 Christmas word search
52 Kid’s corner
54 What’s on in the Diocese
55 Directory of services
56 Pope’s prayer intentions
57 Latest appointments
57 Voice of the People

OutlookLooks
Christmas Mass and Reconciliation Times
Can’t decide which Mass to go to this Christmas? Check out the list of Masses and Reconciliation times in
local parishes, listed on the Diocese of Parramatta website.
parracatholic.org
Try to slow the pace and have family
time during Advent.
Get in the zone this Advent
Did you know that Advent means “the coming
of something important”? Often we find that the
24 days of Advent are the busiest all year. This
year, take the time to slow the pace of your family
and prepare your family to appreciate the special
season of Christmas.
You’ll find a stack of ideas for slowing the pace
and growing closer as a family over Advent
at this link on the Cath Family website
catholicoutlook.info/FamilyAdvent
Members of the new Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd board with Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of
Parramatta (centre) and clergy after their commissioning Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
New name, same great local Catholic schools
With 80 great local schools, Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta is dedicated to providing families with
meaningful opportunities to grow in faith and learning across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. From
the beginning of 2023, the organisation will be known as Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd and have
a new governance framework. In the spirit of leading together, there will also be a new Board of Directors for
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd, led by Chair Elizabeth Crouch AM, and a new Executive Director of
Schools, Jack de Groot.
Find out more catholicoutlook.info/Schoolsboard
04

Take action against
modern slavery
OutlookLooks
50 million people, 71% of them women and girls,
live in slavery globally. The Diocese of Parramatta
is committed to supporting whatever actions will
lead to the eradication of modern slavery.
Georgie Crabb, Catholic Care Case Manager (left) and
Denise* (*name changed) who now has a safe home
thanks to Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue
Mountains. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
Help the homeless to find a home
Right now, all types of people, including
grandparents, families and young people
can’t find a safe secure space to call home.
Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue
Mountains provides help to those in need who
have nowhere safe to live. This Christmas,
Bishop Vincent invites you
to give a compassionate
Christmas donation to help
the homeless.
Read its Modern Slavery Statement at
parracatholic.org/resources
You can support the eradication of modern
slavery buy purchasing the ACRATH 2023
Calendar. The calendar features stories and
information on forced marriage, ethical shopping
(do you know how your clothes are made?) and
those working to stop this insidious practice.
Order it at acrath.org.au
Make your donation here.
Share the good vibes of
coming to church
Did you know that regular church
attendees are much more likely than
others to report they are satisfied with
their relationships, spiritual wellbeing
and sense of contentment? With all
the good that going to church offers
everyone, reach out to others this
Christmas and New Year season and
invite someone you know to Mass.
According to recent research* 68%
of people are likely to attend if they
were personally invited.
*The Changing Faith Landscape of
Australia by McCrindle Research 2022.
Bishop Vincent with parishioners at Our
Lady of Lourdes Parish, Seven Hills
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
05

OutlookLooks
January Epiphany Pilgrimage
Enjoy the beauty of the Blue Mountains while you celebrate, pray and reflect during the Epiphany Pilgrimage
and Fiesta from 2 to 8 January 2023. Beginning at Our Lady of the Way Parish, Emu Plains, you will spend
the next seven days walking bush tracks and trails to reach the top of the Blue Mountains. Along the way,
experience the overwhelming hospitality of the six Blue Mountains parish communities who host the group for
a festive meal each night. The event is open to all fitness levels: walk the entire 100kms, join for a day walk or
maybe just drop in for the evening festivities.
Find out more about this unique event at epiphanypilgrimage.org
Pilgrims in the beautiful Blue Mountains. Image: Supplied.
Congratulations to our parishes
and faithful servants of the
people of God
This year, the Diocese of Parramatta welcomed
our first new priest since 2018 and nine new
deacons. Many parishes, priests and others in
religious life also celebrated big milestones. Read
about them on pages 14 and 16.
Fr Andrew Rooney, who was ordained a priest in
August 2022. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
St Finbar’s Parish at Glenbrook recently celebrated
their first church’s 110 year anniversary. They will also
host the family fiesta on 2 January 2023.
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
Family Day at Finnies!
Families are invited to the first day of the
Epiphany Pilgrimage for a day of fun including
jumping castles and a fiesta at St Finbar's Parish,
Glenbrook on 2 January 2023.
Details at epiphanypilgrimage.org
06

Talking to other people of faith
OutlookLooks
A new group of people will be looking at how to engage with people of other faiths as part of the new Diocese
of Parramatta Interfaith Commission. The members, who were commissioned in September 2022, are tasked
with strengthening the social fabric of Western Sydney through interfaith engagement.
Watch this space for more interfaith news to come!
The inaugural Diocese of Parramatta Interfaith Commission at their Commissioning Mass in September 2022.
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.

Short & Sweet
Catholic schools find their authenticity in the Gospel priorities of respect for
human dignity, outreach, inclusion and special concern for young people at risk
of being left behind. Ours are not schools that provide education for Catholics
only but Catholic education for all.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
at the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta Symposium in November 2022. Find his
full address at catholicoutlook.info/Symposium2022
We see what is happening and the worst thing is that we are becoming used to it.
“Oh yes, today another boat capsized, so many lives were lost.” This “becoming
used to” is a terrible illness.
His Holiness Pope Francis
in The Letter his new movie on Climate change released in October and viewable on YouTube
The Catholic NSW Aboriginal Education Strategy aims to see increases
in a number of important indicators...But importantly, it also aims to see
improvements in wellbeing outcomes and better understanding of the histories,
cultures and experiences of Aboriginal people.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Linda Burney MP
at the Catholic Schools NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Conference,
co-hosted by Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta in Leura in October 2022
One could summarise diaconal spirituality in a few words, that is, a spirituality of
service – willingness on the inside and openness on the outside.
Archbishop Charles Balvo
the Apostolic Nuncio to Australia at the National Deacons Conference hosted by the
Diocese of Parramatta in Baulkham Hills in October 2022
Scholastica of Subiaco, Hilda of Whitby, Hildegard of Bingen, Catherine of Sienna,
Teresa of Ávila and Mary MacKillop all in their own time and their own way either
led or challenged their brothers to see certain matters from a different perspective.
Sr Antonia Curtis OSB, Benedictine Sisters, Jamberoo Abbey
in her introduction to a series examining female saints which appeared on Catholic
Outlook in October and November 2022 catholicoutlook.info/AntoniaCurtis
I told Pope Francis that the Church in Australia, notwithstanding the many
challenges it faces, is alive and vibrant. Pope Francis was particularly
pleased to hear of this vitality.
Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB
President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference following his meeting with Pope
Francis in Rome in October 2022
08

In this way, like the Magi, we will have the daily certainty
that even in the darkest nights a star continues to shine.
It is the star of the Lord, who comes to care for our frail humanity.
Let us set out on the path towards him.
Let us not give apathy and resignation the power to
drive us into a cheerless and banal existence.
Let our restless hearts embrace the restlessness of the Spirit.
The world expects from believers a new burst
of enthusiasm for the things of heaven.
Like the Magi, let us lift up our eyes, listen to the desire lodged in
our hearts, and follow the star that God makes shine above us.
As restless seekers, let us remain open to God’s surprises.
Brothers and sisters, let us dream, let us seek and let us adore.
From Pope Francis’ homily for the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, St Peter’s Basilica, 6 January 2022.
09

If you want peace, work for justice!
Bishop Vincent’s Christmas Message
BISHOP VINCENT LONG OFM CONV
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
We live in an increasingly dangerous world where
a spiral of violence seems to be out of control.
Violence and selfishness dominate our daily news,
as the ‘answer’ the world offers to us. The horrors
unfolding in Ukraine and the scandal of the arms
race, and even more the danger of nuclear war
frightens us all. Our planet continues to be exploited
and the beauty of God’s creation plundered for profit.
And the ongoing tragedy of refugees continues with
many people closing their hearts to compassion.
Instead of sharing, many are choosing exclusion as
the solution. Only the other day Pope Francis issued
a new, scathing warning against the exclusion of
migrants. For him, “The exclusion of emigrants is
scandalous. Actually, the exclusion of emigrants is
criminal. They are dying right in front of us, as the
Mediterranean is the largest cemetery in the world…”
Not opening doors to them “is revolting, sinful and
criminal,” he added, off the cuff. Even worse: “We
do not exclude them, we send them away to camps,
where they are exploited and sold like slaves.”
This Christmas then, let’s all pledge to become
committed peacemakers - as we remember the
birth of the Prince of Peace amongst us. Jesus of
Nazareth built his entire Gospel message on peace,
and nowhere in His words or deeds did He even hint
that war was actually the way of achieving it.
Indeed, peace is the stuff of
the four Gospels; a constant
theme of the New Testament
and the ultimate goal of two
thousand years of Christian
vision and witness.
This Christmas, where violence and war seems so
close to us on our television screens, let’s remember
one of the great witnesses to peace in our Catholic
tradition – St Francis of Assisi. While many people
associate St Francis with nature, not as many know
the story of his voyage and witness to the Muslim
world as a peacemaker. It was the time of the Fifth
Crusade, shortly after a Crusader victory at the port
city of Damietta – modern Dumyat – on the Nile Delta.
Francis, who opposed all killing no matter what the
cause, sought the blessing of the cardinal who was
chaplain to the Crusader forces to go and preach the
Gospel to the sultan. The cardinal told him that the
Muslims understood only weapons and that the one
useful thing a Christian could do was to kill them. At
last, the cardinal stood aside, certain that Francis
and Illuminato, the brother traveling with him, were
being led to die as martyrs.
The two left the Crusader encampment singing the
psalm, The Lord is my shepherd.
For a month Francis and the sultan met daily. Though
neither converted the other, the sultan had such
warmth for his guests that he not only spared their
lives but gave them a passport allowing them to
visit Christian holy places under Muslim control, and
presented Francis with a beautifully carved ivory horn
which is now among the relics of the saint kept in the
Basilica of Assisi.
The two (Francis and
Malik-al- Kamil, the Sultan)
parted as brothers.
During this holy season of Christmas, we too are
especially called to be witnesses to peace like St
Francis of Assisi, in our daily lives. For in many ways,
we too are living in ‘war’. Often, we can be at ‘war’
with ourselves, at ‘war’ with others, especially when
we ‘crusade’ against people and see them as rivals
and enemies.
10

A life of peace however, means
daily trying to make peace with
ourselves and to cultivate a
daily practice of ‘nonviolence’.
For in the prophetic words of St Paul VI:
If you want peace,
work for justice!
Let’s make that peace a reality in the lives of all those
we encounter.
This Christmas, as we contemplate the Christ child in
the manger, who was born, died and rose from the
dead to give us Peace - let’s commit ourselves here
in Parramatta to pray and work for justice and peace
so that the Kingdom will come!
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, in the Mary
MacKillop Chapel in the Bethany Centre,
Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.

Adults and children from Holy Family Parish: St Ignatius Tongan
Catholic Community, got into the spirit demonstrating the
Tongan tradition of toli-akau. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
What’s your Christmas tradition?
STORY RAIMIE CARAMANCION
12

With Christmas and the New Year coming up
quickly, we asked a few of our friends across the
Diocese of Parramatta about some of the cultural
celebrations and devotions they follow. One of the
most welcoming aspects of the Australian church
is how we embrace the many beautiful cultures
around us as a gift!
Filipino tradition - Simbang Gabe
A tradition in the Philippines that is specifically
Catholic, is Simbang Gabe or Dawn Mass. For nine
days straight leading up to Christmas Day, this
devotion involves attending Mass together before
the sun rises around 5:30am to 6am (depending on
where you are in the world). Mass is followed by a
shared breakfast outside the church.
You are welcome to attend Simbang Gabe from the
16 to 24 December 2022 at St Aidan's Parish, Rooty
Hill, Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown,
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Seven Hills, Mary
Immaculate Parish, Quakers Hill-Schofields, and
many more!
Polish tradition - Sylwester
Some say that the first day of the New Year will
determine the rest of the year, similar to the saying
“conquer the morning, conquer the day!”. For our
Polish friends, New Year gatherings known as
Sylwester (St Sylvester’s Day) involve a menu of
scrumptious sausages, hearty bigos (meat stew)
and celebratory wódka for adults. Additionally, the
tradition of keeping the scales of the Christmas Day
Carp (fish) is kept in people’s wallets as a fun gesture
of hope for abundance and prosperity in the new year.
Tongan tradition - Toli-Akau
Malia Lolesio from Holy Family Parish, Mt Druitt,
tells us a beautiful tradition from the Tongan culture
is ‘toli-akau’ or ‘Christmas tree picking’. Families
decorate one or more Christmas trees at the church
or nearby hall where celebrations involving dancing,
singing, eating and opening of presents occur as a
community. What’s special about the Christmas trees
is that they are decorated with not only ornaments,
but chips, lollies, balloons and even money bags.
The children have all the fun in picking and keeping
what they like!
Vietnamese tradition - the cave of Bethlehem
Most commonly practised in parishes but expressed
in many ways, is the tradition of the cave of
Bethlehem. In Vietnamese culture, explains Karen
Dinh of St Patrick's Cathedral Parish, Parramatta, a
papier-mâché depiction of the scene of Jesus’ birth
is displayed for families, particularly those with young
children, to visit and reflect on.
In these nativity scenes, you will find a stable, farm
animals, Mary, Joseph, the crib (traditionally left
empty until Christmas Day), the three Wise Men, and
the Star of Bethlehem. Baby Jesus is placed in the
crib on Christmas Day.
Vietnamese families bring this beautiful tradition into
their homes, much like how we take the message of
God’s love into the home and to all we meet.
As your family gets into the Christmas
spirit, why not visit a few parishes around
the Diocese and see the many beautiful
and different nativity scenes on display.
Indian tradition - Midnight Mass
We all enjoy homemade sweets in Australia, but
for most of us it’s not an everyday experience. If
you were in India, following local traditions, says
Katelyn Almeida of The Parish of Baulkham Hills,
you would no doubt find yourself visiting people's
homes and enjoying the sweets they have made
especially for you!
If you have a sweet tooth and are feeling
adventurous, try some Goan Christmas-season
sweets. Look for kulkuls, neuris, dodols, or gons. For
Catholics from Goa, Midnight Mass is a traditional
practice on Christmas Day.
Celebrating on Christmas Eve is common to many
people, and on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day,
the heartfelt caroling and Christmas greetings will be
heard across the Diocese of Parramatta. I know I get
goosebumps from awe and wonder when “O Holy
Night” is sung in church on Jesus’ birthday!
Find Christmas Mass and Reconciliation times for
parishes and chaplaincies on catholicoutlook.org
and parracatholic.org. Be sure to also check your
local parish’s social media, website or bulletin for
more information about Christmas and New Year
celebrations to bring family and friends in 2022-23.
Raimie Caramancion is freelance writer and is a parishioner
in the Diocese of Parramatta.
13

Celebrating Parish Milestones
STORY CHRISTINA GRETTON
A lot happened in 2022 in our parish communities, especially for those parishes
making up for celebrations postponed over the last few years
120 years
Sacred Heart Parish, Blackheath – 120th anniversary of Sacred Heart Church opening and blessing.
110 years
St Finbar’s Parish, Glenbrook – 110th anniversary of the first parish church
100 years
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Wentworthville – 100th anniversary of the parish primary school.
14

We congratulate and our parish communities which marked significant milestones. We pray that they will
continue to be places of faith and community for all people across the Diocese for many years to come.
30 years
Corpus Christi Parish, Cranebrook – 30th anniversary of the establishment of the parish
20 years
St John XXIII Parish, Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens – 20th anniversary of the establishment of the parish
50 years
We also congratulate Christ the King Parish, North Rocks, who after years of postponement, have celebrated
their 50th anniversary.
15

Five Missionary Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Queen of the World-Australia celebrated their Golden
Jubilee of their Religious Profession at Holy Cross
Parish, Granville in October 2022. Image: Supplied.
Celebrating our local servants of the
People of God
STORY MARY BRAZELL
Throughout 2022, the Diocese of Parramatta celebrated the
milestones of some of our incredible servants of Christ.
We thank them for their dedicated service to our
parish community, and pray that God continues to
bless them on their vocational journey in living out
the call of the Gospel.
Fr Andrew Rooney
Ordination to the Priesthood
On 26 August 2022, watched by his family, friends,
supporters and fellow clergy, Deacon Andrew
Rooney was ordained to the priesthood at St
Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. The Diocese of
Parramatta welcomes and
congratulates Fr Andrew
Rooney, our first priest to
be ordained in the Diocese
since 2018.
Watch the video from
Fr Andrew’s ordination
here via the QR Code.
16

Special anniversaries
25th anniversary of
priestly ordination
25th anniversary
of profession
50th anniversary
of profession
60th anniversary
of profession
Fr Oliver Aro MSP
40th anniversary of
priestly ordination
Fr Joseph Thomas
Fr Anthony Fox OFM
Conv
50th anniversary of
priestly ordination
Fr Zvonimir Gavranovic
60th anniversary of
priestly ordination
Fr John O’Neill
Fr Carl Ashton
Fr John McCall OCarm
Fr Manuel Carracedo SJ
Sr Helen Stannard RSM
Sr Mary-Rebecca
Sampang ISSM
Fr Zvonimir Gavranovic
Sr Mary Justina Pham
Thi Tran CMR
Sr Mary Chanel Dinh Thi
Hoai CMR
Sr Therese Michaela
Pham Thi Thu CMR
Sr Mary Gemma Pham
Thi Huyen CMR
Sr Therese Miriam Vu
Lanh Hai CMR
Sr Catherine Slattery
SGS
Sr Rosanne Smith RGS
Sr Rosanne Maree
Sinclair CSFN
Sr Joanna Zarzyczna
CSFN
Sr Mary Noonan RSJ
By the end of 2022,
the Diocese will have
welcomed the following
deacons:
Ordinations to the
Transitional Diaconate
Adam Carlow, Matthew
Dimian, Jack Elkazzi and
Tom Green
Ordinations to the
Permanent Diaconate
Charles Abela, David
Dowling, Jerome
D’Rozario, Batsirai
Maringehosi and
Alan Skofic
Bringing Christ into
homes and hearts
Little Drops of Water began in the
mind of a little girl named Anna
in 2014. Naturally inquisitive, she
asked her parents many questions
about the Catholic faith and wanted
to understand each saint and their
story. Anna’s parents wanted a way
to help make the faith educational
and engaging. With her father’s
help the first saint drawings were
brought to life and the Little Drops
of Water figurines were born.
The Little Drops of Water range
brings Jesus, Mary, and the Saints
into the hearts and hands of
children from an early age building
a real connection with the heroes
of Christianity. There are also
sacramental
figurines.
Collect
them all
“We
ourselves feel
that what we are
doing is just a drop
in the ocean. But the
ocean would be less
because of that
missing drop.”
Mother Teresa of
Calcutta
Scan the code to download the catalogue, view the full range and purchase, or visit www.thatcatholicshop.com/littledrops
The proceeds of every purchase at That Catholic Shop support the work and mission of Aid to the Church in Need.

A
Advent Calendar
We’ve created this Advent calendar to help you and your family prepare for Christmas.
Step 1 – Cut out both pages from the magazine.
Step 2 – With a blade and ruler cut around the 3 dotted lines of each door leaving it attached on the left side.
Step 3 – Put glue on the blue and glue Page B to the back of Page A.
Step 4 – Open a door a day and complete the action to help you prepare for Christmas.
Merry Christmas
From the Diocese of Parramatta, the Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains
18

B
The CCD Team and the SRE Catechists from across the Diocese of Parramatta, invite you to
consider joining the SRE Ministry in 2023, to share faith and the Good News to the many
Catholic children who attend public schools.
With thanks we wish you a joyful and restful Christmas and New Year!
Glue area
Thank God for
the people who
love you!
Share a smile!
Do something
kind for
someone!
Pray for
someone who
has died.
Be happy today!
Pray the
Rosary today.
Ask the prayer
‘Jesus help me
to listen to your
WORD’.
Pray for PEACE
Research
how candy
cane colours
represent Jesus.
Thank God for
the people you
love!
Glue area
Pray for a sick
person.
Donate a gift
for a local
charit y.
Take time to
listen to a
friend.
Pray ‘Jesus help
me to be kind’.
Find out which
saints have
feast days in
De cember.
Glue area
Thank God for
all the good
things you
have.
Listen to what
God is saying to
you today.
Say sorry to
someone you
have upset.
Share an
encouraging
word to
someone!
Learn a new
Christmas
carol.
Pray for
someone who
is feeling sad
today
Forgive someone
who has hurt
you.
Reach out
to someone
spending
Christmas
alone.
Read the
Christmas
story!
Christmas
Day! HAPPY
BIRTHDAY
JESUS!!
Glue area

Rowena (centre) and Angel (right) with
their three children. Image: Supplied.
Christmas is a time to
celebrate your marriage
STORY MARY BRAZELL
Married couples can celebrate what makes their
marriage special and share that joy with others.
Pre-marriage educators in the Diocese of Parramatta
remind couples to celebrate and remember the
foundation of their marriage.
“The grace of the Holy Spirit makes our marriage
so special,” says Sharon Rogers from Our Lady of
the Angels Parish, Rouse Hill. She and her husband
Edwin accompany engaged couples in the premarriage
courses held in the Diocese of Parramatta.
“In 25 years, there’s a lot that you go through. All
marriages have ups and downs, but for both of us,
the fact that we said ‘yes’ and promised in front of
God, has kept us together and helped us through the
tough times,” says Edwin.
“With God as the centre of our marriage, we are able
to lean on each other when we go through challenges
at work or at home. We pray for each other, support
each other and set a good example for our kids.”
Fellow educators Angel and Rowena Penano from
Our Lady, Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes,
hope couples continue to let God be a part of their
marriage, not just on their wedding day.
“After 20 years, we continue to grow in discovering
this joy of marriage as God intended it,” Angel says.
“We got married in our mid-20s, and we were full
of love and knew we wanted to commit to each
other for life, but it wasn’t until 10 years ago that
we discovered more about what a true sacramental
marriage was.
“At this time, our differences in personalities were
pulling us apart and we were in crisis. Thanks
be to God, He knew our marriage and knew we
needed help.
“At our lowest point, I felt this grace that even
at the worst times, I still loved Rowena. I knew it
wasn’t from my rational thinking, but I was hearing
something beyond my own perspective.”
Rowena adds, “When you are in a difficult situation,
you have to look for hope. You have God who will
help you and you don’t have to rely solely on your
own, you have people on your journey to help you.
Keep hope, keep on loving
and rely on God.
20

As we move into the Advent and Christmas season,
the marriage educators encourage couples to take
this time to prepare and celebrate the new year for
their marriage.
“Advent is a good time for us to go back and begin
again, to look at the promises that you made to each
other. Maybe you got side-tracked along the way
with kids and the busyness of life, but to go back and
make time for each other,” Sharon says.
Our Lord has all these graces in
store for us, He just wants us to
ask for them. Advent is a time
to connect with Him again, in
His humanity, in His gift of the
Eucharist, journeying with him
from Eden to Bethlehem.
• Start an Advent Calendar or celebrate the
12 Days of Christmas with married-themed
prompts to celebrate the other person.
• Give each other the gifts of yourselves,
your patience, time or small tokens of
appreciation, such as filling up the car with
petrol for the week.
• Explore a ‘theme’ for the new year – look
at what are your hopes and aspirations
in 2023.
• Prepare your hearts, souls and spirits to
see things in a different light.
• Decide to be married every day, especially
on the days when you need it.
The Marriage - Mission Enhancement Team is
looking for generous and passionate married
couples to accompany engaged couples on their
journey to the Sacrament of Matrimony. If you can
volunteer a few hours a month, please contact
marriage@parracatholic.org
Will you stretch out your
hand to the poor and
help end homelessness?
“ For too many disadvantaged people,
‘home’ is a damp, mouldy garage.
A mattress on the floor. Or a piece of
cardboard on the street.
“ Please help Catholic Care provide safe,
secure shelter, and end homelessness
in our community.”
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
Please give generously to the Bishop’s Christmas Appeal
yourcatholicfoundation.org.au/appeal

An open pantry door
STORY ISABELL PETRINIC
As we get closer to Christmas, more families
are needing assistance and the parishioners at
Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown
have responded.
Devised at a meeting of the Mary, Queen of the
Family Parish social justice group in 2021, Mary’s
Pantry provides basic household goods for those
doing it tough, with support from Blacktown Ponds
Lions Club and St Patrick's Primary School Blacktown.
“We are seeing a 20 per cent increase in the need for
our services,” says Jude Besterwitch, president of
the social justice group.
Mary’s Pantry averages about 40 clients a month and
has distributed over 750 hampers to over 240 families.
With statistics showing 18 per cent of Blacktown
mortgage holders are paying 30 per cent of their
income on mortgage repayments, people are feeling
the effects of rising interest rates, rent hikes, and
job losses due to COVID. Women fleeing domestic
violence and other vulnerable groups including
people with disabilities and people sleeping rough
on our streets are also reflected in who needs help
through the pantry.
“We are a little worried because we are finding that
the volume of groceries we receive on our food
drives is coming down,” Jude explains.
He described how the service came to be. “As a
group we felt we needed to seek Christ in each other.
“With Fr Regie's [Fr Reginaldo Lavilla MSP, Parish
Priest of Mary, Queen of the Family Parish] help, we
contacted Blacktown Ponds Lions Club who started
conducting food drives for us.
“All the groceries and toiletries we have distributed
since we started have been donated.”
The packages are tailored to peoples’ cultures and
cater for any food intolerances. Extra groceries are
given to larger families.
The smiles of Mary's Pantry volunteers Terri
Sebastian (right) and Patricia 'Pat' Regan
greet people who are doing it tough.
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.

Terri and Pat pack
grocery bags with
the basics in Mary’s
Pantry. Image: Diocese
of Parramatta.
No questions asked
Unlike some other agencies that require detailed
paperwork from its clients, Mary’s Pantry only asks
for some form of identification for auditing purposes.
“We are aware there is a big power imbalance
between our volunteers and patrons, so we take
steps to mitigate it,” Jude says.
“We smile, welcome. We offer to help carry and
pack their car. All of this helps start conversations. If
they are comfortable, they tell us what’s happening
in their lives.”
People can drop off or pick up groceries
anonymously as well.
Meet the volunteers
Mary’s Pantry is run by Terri Sebastian, who ran
the free weekly Blacktown One Meal service
before COVID hit.
“It has always been my dream to help people,”
she says, smiling.
She is one of about 20 dedicated volunteers at
Mary’s Pantry, many of them retirees.
At 89, Patricia Regan, a parishioner since 1958, is the
oldest volunteer. “It’s lovely to meet the people,” she
says. Despite having a heart attack two years ago,
followed closely by cataract surgery, the sprightly
and talkative octogenarian volunteers twice a month
at Mary’s Pantry.
Both ladies also volunteer at Mary’s Café where,
on Wednesdays, locals can come together for
homemade morning tea at the parish.
Isabell Petrinic is a freelance writer.
Lend a hand
Volunteers and donations are always welcome.
In the lead up to Christmas, Christmas puddings,
fruit and mince pies, juice and cola, tinned meat,
chocolates, Christmas lollies and $25 Coles and
Woolworths gift cards will be gratefully accepted.
Drop donations into
Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown.
Mary’s Pantry
Mondays to Fridays from 10am to 1pm.
Mary’s Café
Wednesdays from 9.30am until people leave.
St Patrick’s Church,
51-59 Allawah Street, Blacktown.
23

Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek student Alisha Santos (centre) with her mother (second left) and father (left), and School
Principal Robert Nastasi (right) after being presented with the Bishop's Award for Excellence this year. Image: CEDP.
‘Class of 2022’ share life lessons
STORY CATHOLIC EDUCATION DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA
As the 2022 school year comes to an end and
the newest batch of graduates celebrate the
wonderful milestone of completing 13 years of
schooling, some Year 12 students from across
Western Sydney reflect on their experience -
how they feel, what they have learned, what
they will take away with them and what they
hope to achieve.
St Patrick’s Marist College, Dundas student Amy
Jahja had a big year. In addition to undertaking her
final year of school, Amy also served as the Year 12
College Captain. When reflecting on her experience,
she spoke about how her schooling has shaped who
she is today.
“I believe one of my greatest achievements at school
has been the ability to build my resilience when things
have not gone my way. I’ve learnt to work harder and
come back stronger when I haven’t gotten the result
that I wanted,” Amy said. “I have great teachers to
thank for that. Their encouragement and support have
been a constant source of support.”
Amy also acknowledged the support of her friends
and classmates, recognising the laughter, love and
support she felt throughout her time at school.
Servant leadership opportunities were highlights of
her learning and faith journey.
“St Patrick’s has helped me to grow in my faith,
to place my trust in Jesus and follow in his
footsteps,” she said. “This has been reflected
through my servant leadership role - I was the
Junior Environmental Captain, a Year 10 Peer
Support Leader and a member of the Social Justice
Group. Helping out at events and working with
Marist Connect and Ekklesia Food Bank have been
amazing highlights of my journey.”
Year 12 student Alisha Santos from Emmaus
Catholic College Kemps Creek was the recipient
of the Bishop’s Excellence Award earlier this year.
She completed her schooling journey having been
an active member of the student leadership team,
school music ministry and various Social Justice
initiatives. Her proud mum reflected on the passage
of time at the awards in September.
“When I saw her getting her award, it brought back
memories from when she was in Kindy and I started
to get teary,” said her mother, April.
For Alisha, the culmination of her schooling has filled
her with confidence to undertake the next stage of
24

her life. She is planning to study for a Bachelor of
Architecture in Fremantle next year and says she
will take what she has learned from school into
everything she does.
I’ve learned that I’m capable,
that I am independent
and have really developed
problem-solving skills.
Alisha
“The teachers were so supportive, especially around
helping us with our mental health and wellbeing, they
were always there to bring comfort and support and
to help figure out solutions.” she said.
Alisha also noted that through her social justice work
in community outreach, she was able to connect with
lots of different types of people through things she
was passionate about and good at, opportunities she
credits to her Catholic schooling.
Louise Armstrong from Caroline Chisholm College
Glenmore Park fondly reflects on her time at
school and encourages her younger peers to relish
every moment.
for all of their support,” Sophia said. “Being able
to reflect on the whole 13 years of school and my
experience this year has given me the opportunity to
realise who I am, what I am good at and what I need
to work on as I finish school and step out into the
adult world.”
With plans to study a Bachelor of Arts and Education
(Secondary) at Macquarie University next year,
Sophia hopes she can have the same positive impact
on the next generation that she received throughout
her years at school.
“I would love to teach in Catholic education and
provide the same amazing opportunities for students
that I received from my teachers,” she said. “I’d love
to be able to give that to others.”
For further information about your local
Catholic school including enrolment
and career opportunities, please visit
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
From the beginning of 2023, Catholic Education Diocese of
Parramatta will be known as Catholic Schools Parramatta
Diocese Ltd.
“Enjoy every moment, make the most of the time
with friends and enjoy the support systems around
you because it is really unbelievable and you won’t
get that afterwards,” she said.
Sophia Trotnar from St John XXIII Catholic College Stanhope
Gardens with Bishop Vincent and School Principal Dr Peter
Webster at the presentation of her Bishop’s Excellence
Award. Image: CEDP.
Sophia Trotnar from St John XXIII Catholic College
Stanhope Gardens echoes this sentiment. She said
even though some days could feel like they were
‘dragging on’ she would go back in a heartbeat to
relive the time again.
“I would cherish the moments more and I would
make sure to tell my teachers just how grateful I am
25

Digital pilgrims take the
virtual road to encounter
STORY DANIEL PETRIE
It was not suddenly and unannounced that Jesus came
into the world. He came into a world that had been
prepared for Him. The whole Old Testament is the story
of a special preparation... Only when all was ready,
only in the fullness of His time, did Jesus come.
Phillip Brooks
Advent calls us to spiritually prepare for Jesus
to be born anew in the cradle of our hearts. The
Mission Team at Catholic Education Diocese
of Parramatta set out to design a fortnightly
formation program to answer this call.
As a result, an Advent-focused formation program
titled Encounter: Virtual Progressive Pilgrimage was
developed for school leaders and CEDP leaders. This
virtual pilgrimage leads digital pilgrims along the road
to Bethlehem through an immersion into key Adventrelated
Scripture passages and locations.
This Encounter program draws on the discernment
processes of listening to the Holy Spirit as we
respond to Bishop Vincent’s call to lead and discern
together as a synodal church.
How does a virtual pilgrimage work?
This particular virtual pilgrimage is led by facilitators
Amanda Bentley - CEDP Mission Partner, and Tim
Hardy - CEDP Head, Leading and Learning. Each
of the five sessions focus on one key passage
and a key location in the Holy Land that reveals
core moments in the Advent narrative that leads
to the Nativity.
During each session, pilgrims are guided by the
following process. The facilitator offers a brief
contextual overview behind the passage and the
significance of the particular location. Then the
scripture process begins:
1. Listen to the scripture passage
2. Silently reflect on the passage
3. Listen to the scripture passage
once again
4. Silently reflect on the passage
5. Discuss in small groups ‘What have I
heard from the Spirit speaking to me
through the scripture passage?’
6. Share as a large group ‘What have
I heard the spirit speaking to me
through the voice of others?’
At the conclusion of the five sessions, digital pilgrims
are invited to gather face-to-face for a dinner of
celebration and reflection on the pilgrimage that has
led to table. Such a conclusion is reflective of the
Road to Emmaus where Christ was made present
through the breaking of bread together in a meal.
This formula of journeying together in Word and
Spirit was first brought to life when the first Virtual
Pilgrimage was offered in Term 2 this year. After
its first popular uptake, it was repeated in Term 3
with an even wider audience. The focus on Advent
now provides a platform for a new direction in the
footsteps of the Magi.
26

Being deeply open and listening with the ear of the
heart to the Spirit provides pilgrims with moments
of intimate connection and many have described it
as a powerful experience in which to start the day
with their God.
The scripture below acts as islands in time upon
which the hour each fortnight is dedicated to explore
and wander with the Spirit as we prepare to make a
way for the Lord.
• Isaiah 11:1-10 - Prophecy of Jesus foretold,
Bethlehem
• Luke 1:68-79 - Canticle of Zechariah, Temple,
Jerusalem
• Luke 1:26-38 - Annunciation, Nazareth
• Luke 1:39-56 - The Visitation, Ein Karem
• Matthew 2:1-12 - The Magi, Bethlehem
As we continue our journey of preparation, the
Mission Team at CEDP would like to offer you our
deepest blessings and prayers as we draw ever
nearer to Bethlehem.
Virtual Pilgrim Reflections
Pilgrim 1:
“This experience has helped me create space
within myself at a time when I would normally
be so busy. As I have walked through the
shopping centres and seen the Christmas
decorations hanging, I would normally feel
that time was ticking and I had to create my
shopping plan to be ready. This year seeing
the decorations, I find myself reflecting on
the scripture we explored at our last Virtual
Pilgrimage session. I really feel like I am
making room for Jesus in my life.”
Pilgrim 2:
“The Virtual Pilgrimage has made a difference
to my daily work life. After our time of
stillness and reflection in the morning, I find
I have a sense of inner peace that I carry
with me throughout my day. I find I am more
present to my staff. It is a journey that I
highly recommend.”
Daniel Petrie is a member of the Mission Team at Catholic
Education Diocese of Parramatta. From the beginning of
2023, Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta will be
known as Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd.
Amanda Bentley, CEDP Mission Partner, and Tim Hardy, CEDP Head, Leading and Learning lead the virtual pilgrimage. Image: CEDP.

When Christmas is a time of fear
STORY DEBRA VERMEER
Christmas is one of the most joyful times
of the year for Christians, but for a growing
number of mostly women and children living
in fear of domestic violence, it can also be a
dangerous flashpoint.
Tracy McLeod-Howe, Head of Safeguarding in the
Diocese of Parramatta, who has previously worked
as CEO of Domestic Violence NSW and run women’s
refuges, says Christmas is a time when underlying
tensions can often spill over into violence.
“In the women’s refuge setting, Christmas is sadly
the busiest time,” she says.
“Alcohol will unleash existing behaviours, as well as
the pressures of family members being together and
the high expectations that come with the narrative
that everything should be perfect at Christmas.”
While Christmas can be a particularly dangerous
time, the 2022 Australian Catholic Bishops’ Social
Justice Statement entitled Respect: Confronting
Violence and Abuse, calls on the faith community to
be alert to the issue of domestic violence at all times,
and to listen and act, where necessary.
“The teaching of Christ urges us to promote
relationships marked by respect and freedom rather
than coercion and control,” says ACBC President,
Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB.
“The virtue of solidarity challenges us to support
those who are seeking justice in the face of such
widespread violence.
“The message of the Gospel is not a message
of domination of one person over another but a
message of mutual esteem and kindness.”
Ms McLeod-Howe says the bishops’ statement,
issued for Social Justice Sunday, was strong and
timely, given the prevalence of domestic and family
violence in the community.
28

“I thought it was important that they named the
different cohorts of people in the community,
especially women, who are impacted by domestic
violence, particularly indigenous communities, and
that the document included the voices of so many
women,” she says.
“The statement is prefaced from actual policy
positions and research, so the bishops are not trying
to deviate from the huge amount of work that experts
in this field have done, but to build on it and that
gives the statement a lot of credibility.
“It also reflects the wonderful work being done in this
space on the ground by faith-based organisations.”
Tracy says the Diocese of Parramatta Office for
Safeguarding is working on a number of fronts to
address domestic violence, including supporting
clergy in their role of speaking out against violence
and supporting those who may be affected.
“We are running a domestic violence training
program online and have previously worked with the
NSW Police Multicultural Office to support women
in those communities who might be living with
domestic violence,” she says.
“In addition to that, we are using the Iris app, which
is a journalling tool for Christian women to observe
when things don’t feel right in a relationship and note
any red flags that come up.”
The bishops’ statement also alerts people to the
perpetration of spiritual violence and abuse.
“Denigrating a person’s religious beliefs, spiritual
practices, or culture, preventing them from practising
their faith or culture, forcing them to participate in
religious or cultural activities, or ‘manipulating religious
teachings or cultural traditions to excuse violence’ or
to exert control over them, are all examples of spiritual
violence and abuse,” the statement says.
The bishops say that the Bible cannot be legitimately
interpreted to justify male power and control over
women and children.
“The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not
support the idea that men are superior to women
and entitled to dominate them. Canon law does not
encourage, much less require, women to remain in
violent or abusive marriages. Church teaching on the
family affirms that in cases of violence and abuse
separation can be ‘morally necessary’ for the safety
of victims.”
Tracy says the best thing that women can do
when experiencing abuse or violence is to “talk to
someone you trust”.
“Seeking professional advice is best, but if that
seems too big a step, then just open up to a friend or
family member you can trust because just letting the
secret out to somebody can bring freedom and the
possibility of taking further steps to safety,” she says.
“If someone you know is in immediate danger, you
must call the police. It can be a difficult thing to do,
but you could save a life.
“And, as the bishops say in their statement, one of
the biggest things we can do to support women
facing domestic violence and abuse is to listen to
them and believe them and never judge them.”
Debra Vermeer is a freelance writer.
• Keep a journal and write down any behaviours
that might be a red flag for possible abuse.
• Listen to any family members, friends or
members of the church community who share
stories of abuse or violence. Believe them.
• If you have concerns about your own situation
or somebody else’s call 1800RESPECT to get
advice from trauma-informed counsellors.
• Call the police 000 if you believe anybody to
be in immediate danger.
Iris app. Image: safeguarding.org.au
29

Community hero honoured with
new accessible playspace
STORY MARY BRAZELL
One man’s advocacy means that those with a
disability can now easily access the Holy Spirit
Parish church. Now the whole local community
benefits through a playspace named in his honour.
The legacy of Western Sydney parishioner
and community advocate David Currie will be
remembered for decades to come after a local
inclusive playspace was dedicated in his honour.
At the same time, his own parish, Holy Spirit Parish,
St Clair-Erskine Park, can welcome people with a
wide variety of needs thanks to David’s advocacy
for accessibility.
On Monday 19 September 2022, a large group of
Holy Spirit parishioners joined Penrith City Council
Mayor Tricia Hitchen, NSW Member for Mulgoa
Tanya Davies, Holy Spirit assistant parish priest
Fr Peter Tangey OSA, David’s wife, Margaret,
their children, grandchildren and friends for the
official dedication ceremony of the David Currie
Playspace in St Clair.
David, a long-term parishioner, was a passionate and
tireless advocate for people with a disability, ensuring
that all members of his community could engage in a
fulfilling community life. He was an active member of
the Penrith City Council’s Access committee for over
12 years and was named the Penrith Citizen of the
Year in 2015. David passed away in January 2019.
Parish Moderator Fr Michael Belonio OSA is
delighted that David has been honoured and
remembered in this way. The church now
experiences the benefits of David’s advocacy for
ensuring all places are accessible to all people.
David was a man of compassion
and kindness, he was a welcomer
and a long-time parishioner
until his passing.
Fr Michael
“He took pride in the layout of the church when it
was being renovated, ensuring that from the carpark
to the altar there were no steps. We’re a parish that
is ‘elderly friendly’, we can welcome parishioners in
wheelchairs and lots of young parents with prams
attend our church too. It’s part of being a welcoming
and inclusive community for all generations and all
abilities.
“David ensured there was no hindrance for anyone
going into the church. He saw his disability as not
being a limitation.
David Currie (third left) with NSW Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies (third right) and members of the parish (L-R) Parish Moderator
Fr Michael Belonio OSA, then-Assistant Priest Fr Sumesh Joseph, then-Assistant Priest Fr Kim Phu Tran, Margaret Currie, and PPC
Chairperson Fleur Mathias after receiving a grant from the NSW government for their pergola outside the church. Image: Supplied

David Currie's son Ian pushes his children in a swing during
the dedication ceremony of the David Currie Playspace in
St Clair. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“Our Augustinian charism is community-focussed,
being one mind, one heart, and I really feel that
David, and all of our parishioners, embody that vision
in their day-to-day lives.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Elizabeth
Heggart, David’s daughter, said that the playspace,
affectionately called by her daughter as “Poppo’s
Park” will be a special place for the family to
remember and celebrate their father and grandfather.
“I know Dad would be so proud of this inclusive
playspace and what it means for those children in
the community who need different and adapted play
equipment so they can enjoy playgrounds just like
able-bodied kids can.
It makes us all so happy that Dad’s
legacy of empathy, compassion
and advocacy has been cemented
in this playspace.
Elizabeth
31

Looking Deeper
The following articles encourage deeper reflection,
prayer and personal learning.
The city of Bethlehem

Looking Deeper

Falling downwards
STORY BR MARK O'CONNOR FMS
He came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was
incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man.
The Newborn Child by Georges de La Tour

Looking Deeper
Jesus ‘came down’. Those simple words of the
Nicene Creed, say so much to us, as we enter
once again into the mystery of Christmas.
Jesus left His glory behind, the glory that He had with
His Father. He ‘emptied himself’—we call this the
kenosis or ‘emptying of himself’—to assume the form
of a servant, taking on our human condition.
Let’s remember that our God never forces Himself on
us. Jesus of Nazareth, the Word made flesh, never
makes us listen. He leaves us free. He comes to us,
as one of us. He ‘came down from heaven’.
Jesus came down from heaven to become one of us.
Like any immigrant, He brought with Him the culture,
language and lifestyle of His home in heaven. And
what is at the core of the language and culture of the
‘immigrant’ Son of God, who comes from the very
heart of the mystery of the Trinity?
Quite simply, that God is a lover who gives Himself
to us totally with boundless self-sacrifice. That to be
divine, is to become a servant of others.
As the great Anglican New Testament scholar and
bishop, N.T. Wright, has noted: God became flesh
not to stop being divine. It was a decision about what
it means to be divine!
This decision has enormous implications for our
discipleship. As Pope Francis has eloquently shown,
in his pastoral ministry, washing the feet of those
who are in need is an imperative and a test of our
being authentic and true to our faith. It is our way
of imitating the Son of God, who ‘came down
from heaven’.
For Jesus to come as one of the working poor, living
in an occupied territory, surrounded by scandal
and accusation, living in relative obscurity in the
middle of nowhere.
The child in the manger is therefore, calling us to a
spirituality of emptiness and service. Jesus emptied
Himself to serve humanity and, as Paul says in his
letter to the Philippians, we, therefore, have to empty
ourselves of all rivalry and conceit and all thinking of
ourselves as better than others.
Such a spirituality of emptiness prompts us to think
this Christmas, of what is inside us that we need to
empty out. Is it being judgemental? Is it a tendency
to sidestep the call of the Gospel to share generously
with others? Could it be an arrogance which looks
down and refuses to accept others in all their
difference? Might it be a subtle racism?
Whatever it is for each of us
personally, this spirituality
of emptiness demands our
inner conversion.
For living the Gospel today is not about being
promoted, taking the ‘higher’ place and ‘succeeding’.
When any disciple become ‘pedestalised’ – when
others exalt or adulate them beyond who they really
are – the Holy Spirit has a way of teaching us in the
Church, usually through humiliation and pain, that we
are all merely servants, not masters.
Not to name names, but even the history of our
wounded but graced Catholic Church, over the last
2000 plus years, has many very salutary examples
of this!
Let’s never forget that real development and growth,
the mystical tradition of our history tells us, comes
from ‘falling downwards’; from failing and yes, from
painful reversals.
And Christian ‘perfection’ is echoed best in the
person who can forgive and include imperfection,
not the one who thinks he or she is totally above all
the necessary messiness of being a ‘graced sinner’.
Being close to God is not about going up the
‘escalator’ of life. Rather, it is all about following a
God who is always ‘descending’ and constantly
bending down to serve.
That is how we live our way into the mystery of God.
In the words of Karl Rahner SJ, "We no longer have
to seek the beloved God beyond the stars in that
inaccessible light where He dwells and where no one
can see Him. Because it is Christmas, because the
Word was made flesh, God is near, and the faintest
word in the quiet chamber of our heart, the word of
love, reaches his ear and his heart."
Br Mark O'Connor FMS is Vicar for Communications in the
Diocese of Parramatta.
35

Following A Higher Power by Jen Norton. © Jen Norton.

Looking Deeper
Epiphany
STORY DR LAURIE WOODS
Epiphany comes from the Greek epipháneia
meaning an appearance or manifestation, and
in Matthew’s infancy narrative, it refers to the
manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles who are
represented by the Magi. A tradition in early
Christianity maintained that the Magi arrived in
Bethlehem 12 days after the birth of Jesus and
so Epiphany Eve (Twelfth Night) gives way to the
feast of the Epiphany, occurring on January 6.
Matthew presents the Magi (Greek magoi) as Wise
Men from the East and quite likely saw them as
Zoroastrian priests who were practised in astrology,
the art of reading signs in the stars and heavenly
bodies. The irony here is that Jewish scholars would
have regarded astrologers as fools because of
their assumed ability to foretell future events and
discover hidden knowledge from reading the position
and movements of stars and planets. Matthew
deliberately challenges this prejudice against
Gentiles by highlighting the Magi as men of wisdom.
Throughout his gospel, Matthew will show various
non-Jewish characters coming to faith in Jesus
ahead of Jewish religious authorities who should
know better, but whose pathway to faith is blocked
by self-interest and distorted values.
When the Wise Men arrive at the house of Joseph
and Mary, they go down on their knees in worship.
What an extraordinary gesture of faith and homage
driven by intuition and a mystical openness to an
otherworldly revelation! They have come prepared
with gifts that symbolise royalty and destiny.
Adept at seeing Scripture fulfilled in the person
and life of Jesus, Matthew points to passages that
describe gifts of homage and deep respect for royalty.
An oracle of Second Isaiah (60:6) speaks of people
from foreign nations coming to Israel on camels
bringing gifts of gold and frankincense. The poet of
Psalm 72 sings of kings coming from Tarshish, Sheba
and Seba bringing gold and precious things to Israel’s
king Solomon. The Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10:2)
also brings Solomon rich spices, gold and precious
things – all of these are gifts fit for a king. Matthew is
depicting Jesus as worthy of universal homage from
people in every corner of the earth.
What can we learn from this epiphany to such Wise
Men? Their whole adventure raises the question
that occurs in the book of Job (28:12), ‘Where shall
wisdom be found?’ and Matthew is offering some
insights in his story of the Wise Men. Wisdom is
beyond learning and the gaining of information.
The Wisdom books of the Bible and Jesus Himself
emphasise the fact that wisdom does not lie in
control, selfism or specialness, but in being open to
the Spirit in moments of mindfulness.
Wisdom joins those women and men who are on the
journey to wholeness, and wholeness has no place
for selfism or specialness. The wisdom of authentic
contentment in life depends on the quality of our
relationships with the Divine Presence, the others we
encounter in life, a healthy relationship with self and a
broad connection with our natural environment. This
wisdom of connection is the key to life in its fullness.
It is our way of partaking in the life Jesus came to
bring us: ‘I came that they may have life, and have it
to the full’ (John 10:10).
How am I open to that life in the Spirit? Jesus spoke
of the Spirit moving unpredictably here and there like
the wind (John 3:8) and that we do well to be open to
be inspired at any time, in any place. I can be moved
by the Spirit through something I read, or heard; by
a piece of music that gave me a lift or something
I caught on YouTube, like a TED talk. Such little
moments can be our way of growing in wisdom and
experiencing the Divine Presence in nature and the
world around us.
What about a resolution for the
new year to be like the Wise Men –
mindful and open to being
touched by the Spirit?
Dr Laurie Woods is a retired senior lecturer in Biblical
Studies from the Australian Catholic University and currently
conducts teacher inservice sessions and parish reflection
days. He lives in the Diocese of Parramatta and is a member
of Our Lady of the Nativity Parish, Lawson.
37

Jesus: the vulnerable
face of God
STORY ALISON RYAN
The Gift of God by Graham Braddock. Image: graham.braddock.co.nz

Looking Deeper
How is vulnerability a strength? Alison Ryan
looks at the lessons we can learn about
vulnerability at Christmas.
I wonder…What is the first thought that comes to
your mind when think about being vulnerable or
vulnerability? Maybe it surprises you to think of God
and vulnerability? I’m sure for some, the first thought
that comes mind regarding the word ‘vulnerability’
is ‘weakness’.
We are so conditioned to equate the two, to say that
being ‘vulnerable’, being open about who we are
and where we’re at in our lives, is the same as being
weak. But I want to suggest that this idea is not true.
That in a strange way, vulnerability is strength.
Not long ago, I was giving a talk to a young adults
group. I shared a part of my story with them, a
part of my story that was deeply painful for me.
It still stirs up feelings of hurt and worthlessness
and shame. After I shared my story, I asked the
group if they thought that I was weak for sharing
it with them. They all shook their heads. I asked
how they would describe what I had done. A few of
them said it was “powerful”, it showed “strength”,
it was “courageous”.
Now frankly, I didn’t feel strong. Instead, I felt
vulnerable. But that’s not what they saw. Maybe
when you have heard a friend share their story,
you’ve had that same reaction.
How often do we see vulnerability as courage in
someone else, but weakness in ourselves?
We need to change our thinking on this, because
being vulnerable is central to our lives as Christians.
Being vulnerable is how Jesus lived.
There are many examples in the gospels of how Jesus
lived his life with great vulnerability, but the beginning
and end of his earthly life stand out really strongly.
God could have come into the world as a mighty
military leader. There were plenty of them around at
the time. Or maybe, as a King like Herod or Caesar.
God could have entered our world in any way. He
didn’t. Instead, God became just like us. God chose
to enter human history as a tiny baby, about as
vulnerable as you can get.
And then we look to the cross. As Christians, the
Crucifixion is the greatest and most powerful thing
that has ever happened. Our God willingly gave up
His life, for the sake of the whole world. How did this
amazing act of strength happen?
Jesus…hanging, naked, on a cross…dying.
If you struggle with the concept of vulnerability as
strength, you are not alone. This is a big, upsidedown
idea and even sounds contradictory to so
much of what we think we know about the world.
In the Second Letter to the Corinthians, St Paul
tells us something about his prayer life. He’d been
struggling with a particular affliction and tells us what
God revealed to him:
…but God said to me,
‘My grace is sufficient for you,
for strength is made perfect
in weakness’.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NRSV)
Then St Paul goes on to say: “So, I will boast all the
more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power
of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content
with weaknesses, for whenever I am weak, then I am
strong.”
Living your life vulnerably isn’t smooth sailing.
Vulnerability is at the core of some very difficult
emotions that we all experience: fear, anxiety,
shame. But vulnerability is also the birthplace of joy,
love, creativity, belonging, and faith. You have to
be vulnerable to have faith, to be able to step into
something that there is no proof for. To be willing to
risk that people won’t get it when you tell them what
you believe - that’s true vulnerability.
Alison Ryan is a parishioner at St Anthony of Padua Parish,
Toongabbie, and is a member of the Mission Enhancement
Team in the Diocese of Parramatta.
39

Fr Paul Slyney (centre) with Bishop Vincent (right) and
parishioners at the Chrism Mass 2018 at St Patrick’s
Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
A cuppa with the priest
Fr Paul Slyney, Parish Priest of
Our Lady of the Nativity Parish, Lawson
STORY CHRISTINA GRETTON
A six-month ‘trial’ of seminary life has turned
into a lifetime of joy and contentment for Fr Paul
Slyney, Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Nativity
Parish, Lawson.
As he reflects on his priestly life, Fr Paul Slyney says
it began with a feeling about a vocation “he couldn’t
shake”. The priesthood wasn’t necessarily his first
choice, he admits, but his internal compass was
pointing him in that direction. To honour that feeling,
he started at St Columba’s Seminary in Springwood
(now since become St Columba’s Catholic College
Springwood), intending to stay for six months.
As the six-month mark in the seminary went by,
he hardly noticed. After a few years at St Patrick’s
Seminary at Manly, he was ordained a priest in 1981.
Today, his gratitude and love for his vocation is obvious.
I’ve met extraordinary people.
In particular, the diversity he has found in Catholicism
delights him. “Diversity is truly Catholic” he says,
commenting on the different approaches to worship
he has seen through encounters with Catholics of
the many cultures and traditions that make up the
Diocese of Parramatta community. “The one thing
that unites us is the gathering around the table of the
Lord at the Eucharist,” he explains. “We become a
holy people. The Eucharist makes us aware of the
goodness of God.”
It is the part of Mass which gives him a distinct joy.
“When I say ‘Behold the Lamb of God who takes
away the sins of the world’, I smile,” he says. “I feel
the sense of liberation that Christ gives us, that sense
of belonging in those words, that sense of being
embraced by the love of God. No one can take that
away from us.”
40

Looking Deeper
The Catholic concept of community continues to
drive and delight him, and he draws on Matthew 18:
19-20 to explain. ‘For where there are two or more
gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them.’
The song of the Church is one
of a love of God that constantly
brings people together, so He
may share His love, His life
and His grace with us.
He remembers his discussions with Bishop
Bede Heather, the first Bishop of the Diocese of
Parramatta, and his focus on community. “Bishop
Bede would always say we don’t just create a holy
place, we are here to form a holy people,” he says.
In talking with him, Fr Paul’s enthusiasm for finding
joy in faith is evident, and we discuss how he even
cheers parishioners with the odd joke.
“As Thomas Aquinas said, ‘Happiness is one of
God’s names’,” he says. “Laughter and joy is an
integral part of what it means to be Catholic. If we
don’t see joy, we are not doing it right.”
Fr Paul talks about how the Lawson parish came
together to rebuild, after the church was destroyed
by a fire lit by arsonists. The parishioners made
all the decisions. “It is a church built by, for, with
community. It is a true expression of a living faith.”
One word in particular stands out for him about
Our Lady of the Nativity Parish at Lawson. “If there
was one word to say about Lawson, it would be it
is an incredibly ‘welcoming’ community,” he says.
“Everyone is welcomed, and no one is judged. I’m
here, you’re here, we’ve journeyed on different paths
to get here, but God has brought us together.”
Have you been considering
broadening your faith
understanding?
Wondering where to next in your pastoral activities?
What paths study may lead to?
• Many tertiary theological degrees to choose from
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or visit our website: www.cis.catholic.edu.au
CIS is a Partner Institution of the University of Notre Dame, Australia
99 Albert Road, Strathfield NSW 2135

Parish Profile
Our Lady of the Nativity Parish, Lawson
A gathering of friends in faith
STORY MARY BRAZELL
Our Lady of the Nativity Parish, Lawson, has
a close-knit faith community who, despite
overcoming obstacles themselves, reach out in
generosity to others. In doing so, they have shown
commitment to each other and to the parish.
The parishioners of Our Lady of the Nativity Parish,
Lawson, one of the smallest parishes in the Diocese,
see their size as being an advantage. The resulting
closeness and the influence of their patron feeds into
the community’s friendship, love and generosity.
“Being a small community makes it easier for us to
know each other. We may not know each other’s
names always, but we recognise the face, and I think
that’s conducive to a happy community,” acolyte and
reader Terry O’Donnell says.
“We have a tradition where the commentator, who
welcomes people to the parish each weekend, says,
‘please turn around and acknowledge people in
the church and say ‘hello’, give them a wave’,” he
explains. “There’s always a welcoming aspect.”
Parish accountant Kevin Medlin adds, “it’s not an
audience or a congregation, it’s a group of friends.”
The result, says parishioner Carol Teodori, is lots of
energy. “We’re not a very quiet church,” she says,
“we’re vibrant and energetic. I feel more at home
here than at any other parish I’ve belonged to.”
Parish secretary Richard Kemmis agrees. “Mass
feels like a coming together with friends,” he says.
“The welcoming feel of this community gets people
to want to come to Church every week. It has a
connection with people.”
Parishioner Rosana Taylor was welcomed with open
arms when she joined the parish ‘by accident’ 10
years ago. “It’s a friendly, understanding and helpful
parish,” she describes. “When I was sick, parishioners
would call and visit to find out how I was doing.”
Priests a gift to the parish
The parishioners credit their welcoming nature to
their priests with hearts of gold – Fr Paul Slyney and
Fr Shinto Francis.
“Fr Paul is a very welcoming, open and fair person
and a great listener. He likes to include people and
their ideas in what happens in the parish,” Terry says.
Fr Shinto describes the two years working in the
parish as “amazing” and says Fr Paul considers him
a “brother in ministry”.
“His compassionate heart for the community is a
great example for me. He is very generous in his
encouragement and support,” he says.
Parishioner Kate Powell praised Fr Shinto for his
contribution to the parish in such a short period of
time. “He makes his sermons relevant to everyday
life,” she said. “He puts so much work into his
homilies each week.”
Christmas traditions
As the parish patron, Our Lady of the Nativity’s
nurturing, loving and caring nature is embodied in the
parish, parishioners say.
In solidarity with Our Lady, each year the parish
generously donates Christmas gifts to mothers and
children from Catholic Care’s Houses to Homes
program. Parishioners take a name tag off an ‘Angel’
tree of a mother or a child and then purchase a
relevant gift.
“There aren’t enough people in Houses to Homes to
satisfy the number of people who want to donate,”
Carol explains, as each year, parishioners quickly
take the tags outlining the suggested gifts to buy for
the disadvantaged families.
42

Parishioners (back row
L-R) Terry O’Donnell,
Kevin Medlin and Rita
Verhoeven and (front
row L-R) Rosana Taylor,
Kate Powell, Carol
Teodori-Blahut and
Richard Kemmis. Not
pictured is Maureen
Ryan. Image: Diocese
of Parramatta
Looking Deeper
Other Advent and Christmas traditions include
parishioners delivering reflections on the week’s
readings during Mass in Advent and working with the
primary school to celebrate their Children’s Mass in
the school grounds.
Determination despite difficulties
Despite the positive and joyful nature of the parish,
the parish has had a few setbacks. During the 1980s
and 1990s, the parish was without a resident priest,
and there were discussions of it being amalgamated
with Upper Blue Mountains Parish. More recently, the
church and its buildings have been damaged by two
fires lit by arsonists.
I ask the parishioners how they remain joyful and
hopeful despite all these difficulties.
Rita Verhoeven, a lifelong parishioner and member
of the Finance Committee says, “when we lost the
priest and they were going to close the parish, the
parish took it upon themselves to form committees
to keep going, and I think our inclusivity stems
from that.”
Sacramental Coordinator Maureen Ryan adds,
“there’s a commitment, peace and community here
that has been built up over time. We’ll get through
this through thick and thin.”
43

Breaking the cycle of homelessness
in our community
STORY PARRAMATTA CATHOLIC FOUNDATION
As we draw closer to Christmas, when Christians
celebrate the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, in
a stable, Catholic Care is seeking support to help
many in our own community who are longing for
the comfort of home.
In launching Parramatta Catholic Foundation’s
Bishop’s Christmas Appeal supporting Catholic
Care’s Assistance with Care and Housing service,
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of
Parramatta said that for too many of our vulnerable
brothers and sisters, ‘home’ is a damp and mouldy
garage; a mattress on the floor; or a piece of
cardboard on the street.
“Many of our marginalised brothers and sisters don’t
meet the criteria that would make them eligible for
government assistance,” he said. “So, when they
suffer housing stress or are evicted from their homes,
their need is acute.
“Earlier this year, Catholic Care committed to reach
the people who are being overlooked. So, we
launched our Assistance with Care and Housing
service, which offers practical and emotional support
to these vulnerable people, and those who are
socially excluded.”
Georgie Crabb, Catholic Care
Case Manager and Denise*
Image: Diocese of Parramatta.

Looking Deeper
Bishop Vincent said the program started in February
and already, 120 clients have received support. In
the last seven months, the demand for this service
has soared.
Georgie Crabb, a Catholic Care Case Manager, said
that as the cost-of-living soars and the housing
market tightens, more and more people are facing
hard times.
“This is a really desperate time,” she said. “Our
job is becoming more and more difficult. We walk
alongside older people who’ve applied for 30-odd
properties, and they’ve been knocked back from
all of them. Their eviction date is looming. Calls are
coming in every day.”
Georgie said that a few years ago, 56-year-old
Denise* had to leave her partner because of repeated
acts of domestic violence.
She moved in with one of her daughters and for
a while everything was going well, but eventually
the rental where they were living went up for sale.
They had to find a new home, urgently. Denise was
determined not to be a burden to her children, so she
went searching for an affordable place where she
could stay.
But no matter how hard she tried, Denise kept
missing out on the rentals she applied for. Things
became so desperate that Denise agreed to rent a
small house, but it was practically falling apart.
“When it rained heavily, the rain came in through
the bathroom roof, and every time I turned the light
switch on, I’d get a shock,” Denise said.
“There was so much mould, and the house was
infested with cockroaches.”
On top of this, Denise, who had spent most of her
working life shearing sheep, now lives with the
physical toll of that crippling employment and can no
longer work.
Denise didn’t know what to do, or who to turn to
for help. Thankfully, Services NSW referred her to
Catholic Care and our Assistance with Care and
Housing service.
Finally, she no longer had to bear her burden alone.
Case Manager Georgie arrived at her door to offer
emotional and practical support so Denise could
find a safe and secure place to call home.
Catholic Care helped me to
do my application for housing,
so I’m finally on the housing
list. They’ve helped me out with
food parcels, and they’re just
so lovely. They treat you like a
human being, and you can tell
they really care, she said.
Denise is now living comfortably in a clean, dry, and
safe home.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Catholic
Care,” she said.
Bishop Vincent invites our faith community to give
a compassionate Christmas donation to ensure
Catholic Care can help more people like Denise find
a safe and secure place to call home.
“Pope Francis repeatedly calls us to care for those
who find themselves excluded, without work, and
without any means of escape,” he said.
“So, as we contemplate Advent and Christmas,
please remember the poor grandmother who only
has mould decorating the damp walls of her rental.
And the unemployed homeless young man lying
painfully on a bit of tattered cardboard for a bed.
They are our sisters and brothers. And just as Jesus
loves them, so must we.”
Your kind Christmas gift will help Catholic Care
provide shelter and help end homelessness in
our community.
No one should be without a place to call home.
*Denise’s name has been changed to protect her privacy
To donate, please call
(02) 8838 3482 or visit
yourcatholicfoundation.
org.au/appeal-christmas
45

Closing the early years learning gap
one traineeship at a time
STORY ISABELL PETRINIC
Amelia’s path to her dream career in Children’s
Services began with a 20-week work placement
in the Ambrose early learning centre co-located
with her school. Now, thanks to a program offered
to students in the Diocese of Parramatta, she is
completing a Diploma in Early Learning Education
free of charge at the centre while being paid a
full-time salary.
With school exams now well and truly over, many
young people may be considering their next move.
An emerging program offered in the Diocese of
Parramatta is helping to bridge the skills gap in the
Early Childhood Education & Care sector, as well
as giving students and trainees an opportunity to
become qualified supported by paid work.
According to the National Skills Commission - which
tracks job demand via online ads - early childhood
educators are currently the fifth most in demand
profession in Australia, averaging 4,549 job ads a
month from June to August 2022.
Ambrose, which operates six early learning centres
and 49 out of school hours care centres in the
Diocese of Parramatta, is offering students with
a genuine passion for child development the
opportunity to work in the sector while still in school.
The Ambrose Pathways Program also includes
access to fee-free qualifications for Certificate III,
Certificate IV, and Diploma qualifications.
“Completing a Certificate III or a Diploma in early
childhood education at no cost to the student is an
incredible opportunity,” said Jessie-Leah Khazzouh,
the Professional Development Coordinator at CDPSL
(Catholic Diocese of Parramatta Services Limited),
the Diocesan organisation behind Ambrose.
“Work placement is a great opportunity for them to
dip their toes in the water. That can happen at one of
our extended hours centres, which are open during
the school holidays.”
Amelia, one of five trainees currently following an
Ambrose pathway, said:
It’s definitely something
I’d recommend to others.
The number of trainees is expected to quadruple
by 2023.
The Ambrose Pathways Program
The Program offers three pathways: work
placements, school-based traineeships, and workbased
traineeships.
High school students can get work experience in
one of the Ambrose Early Learning services within
the Diocese. If they are in Year 11 or 12, they can
undertake a school-based traineeship, studying a
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
whilst completing their HSC.
As part of the traineeship, the student also works
part-time at an Ambrose service which provides
practical experience, the support of mentors and
an income.
“Definitely the aim is to retain the trainee,” says
Vickie Parkes, Director of the Ambrose Early Learning
Centre Stanhope Gardens, where Amelia is based.
This can also be a stepping
stone to primary teaching.
46

Amelia’s path to early learning began with
a work placement when she was just 16 –
thanks to the Ambrose Pathway Program
in the Diocese of Parramatta. Here
she is pictured with Addie and Connor
at Ambrose Early Learning Stanhope
Gardens. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
Amelia’s path to a dream career
Amelia got her first taste of the early learning
profession in Year 10.
“While I was at St Mark’s [now known as St John
XXIII Catholic College] I did work experience one day
a week for 20 weeks. I really liked it,” she said.
In Year 11, Amelia enrolled in CathWest Innovation
College Mt Druitt and came back to the service to
complete a school-based traineeship, along with a
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education. Being
paid was a welcome bonus.
Now, Amelia is completing a Diploma in Early
Childhood, through a work-based traineeship at
the centre.
“I love my team and the job itself - being able to help
the children and to watch them grow,” said Amelia
who can now pass on her knowledge to the latest
school-based trainee, Sophie.
“The year group when I had my work placement is
in Year 2 now. I see them walking past the gate. They
don’t remember me,” she laughed.
Isabell Petrinic is a freelance writer.
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“Remember we are but travelers here...” – St Mary MacKillop, 1867
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Holy Land Pilgrimages
Footsteps of
St Mary MacKillop
Red Centre
Pilgrimage
Land only from $5790 Land only from $4190
Land only from $4990
11 Days / 10 Nights - Watch the Gospels
come alive as we set out on this true
pilgrimage of faith and retrace the
progressive stages of the life of Jesus from
his Nativity in Bethlehem to his Passion
on Calvary. Departs in April, May, June,
September, October & November
11 Days / 10 Nights
Set out together on a true Australian
Pilgrimage through the life and times of
Mary MacKillop, as we rekindle the story,
landscapes and spirit of our nations’ first
Saint.
Departs in March, August & September
8 Days / 7 Nights
Something deep and mystical calls all
Australians to journey to the heart of our
nation to honour its symbols, stories and
beauty in a prayerful spirit of awe and
thanksgiving.
Departs in April & October
TOLL FREE: 1800 819 156
www.harvestjourneys.com
the genuine pilgrim experience

Watch and Listen
The Letter
Watch
Within three days of its release, The Letter had already been viewed over a million times. Made for all people in
conjunction with the Vatican, The Letter documents the stories of four people around the globe who received
a personal invitation from Pope Francis to talk with him about their experiences of climate change. The Letter
takes you on their journey to their eventual meeting with Pope Francis, and his message of hope.
Watch it for free on YouTube.
Listen
Soon to launch! Catechism in a Year
Fr Mike Schmitz is known for his Bible in a Year
podcast and now ready to bring you Catechism in a
Year. Listening to the 15 to 20 minute episodes each
day, you’ll cover the entire Catechism of the Catholic
Church by the end of the year.
Watch out for its launch on 1 January 2023.
Going Deeper
A new weekly podcast Going Deeper from the
Evangelisaion Adult Formation Team in the
Archdiocese of Brisbane, brings you an ‘organic’
discussion about Catholicsm, theoligy and life.
Topics include ‘Being led by the Spirit’, ‘How to pray
with scripture’ and the ‘The creation of the soul’.
Available on Spotify.
50

CHRISTMAS WORD SEARCH
ANGEL
JOSEPH
MARY
PEACE
ADVENT
VULNERABLE
SAVIOUR
SHEPHERDS
STABLE
WISDOM
EPIPHANY
STAR
JESUS
GLORIA
H O S R I E P I P H A N Y S
E G N E L E S O S O A M G H
O L W I S D O M S V P A R E
H O W E B U E S A U A R U P
H R E E R R D I N L H Y O H
S I P E A C E E G N H H I E
R A A O A E S J E E R I V R
D E D R I P S O L R S T A D
A T V N S S T S A A A P S S
B P E I T V A E H B E L N H
A A N V A V B P E L T I R A
J E T N R M L H A E S R U U
M H A O S E E N E D N J N C
S U S E J R E D S S N J E A
51

An ever-green tree is always green. It does not become
dormant in winter as other trees do. The colour green
represents new life and the needles of the evergreen
point up – heavenward. It symbolises our everlasting
life with Jesus Christ.
Symbols of Christmas
Mini Book
Words by Felicity Mollohan
With thanks to Ministry-To-Children.com
The star is a heavenly sign of prophecy fulfilled ages
ago, the shining hope of all mankind. The star led the
wise men to find the baby Jesus. These wise men
travelled many miles following a star in the sky. The star
was their "guiding light" to the Saviour. God was the
wise men's travel agent, in sorts, leading them to the
greatest destination known to man - the Saviour. We
now have His Word as our "guiding light" to lead us to
be with Him in heaven. Are you going to follow Him?
Many people spend hours wrapping all of their
presents during Christmas time. They use ribbons,
garlands and bows to make sure that their presents are
as beautiful as possible. What they don’t realize is that
the items that they use to complete the outside of the
gift have more meaning than the actual gift inside. The
bow ties our present with a beautiful ribbon, just as
Jesus ties us as Christians together in His love. We may
not be in the same family, but we are all in the family of
God. Jesus is the ribbon that binds us together.
When a room is full of darkness, it is dark. But, if you
light a single match in a dark room, the room is light.
There may be more darkness, but the light overpowers
it. We are that light. We can be the single light in a
world of darkness. We must share our light with the
world so that the light increases.
The Candy Cane symbolizes multiple things. If you
hold it upright...it looks like a shepherd’s crook. The
shepherds were one of the few people who were able
to see the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. If you turn the
candy cane upside down it looks like a J for Jesus.
The colours of the candy cane are also symbolic. The
red represents the blood that Jesus shed for us on the
cross and the white represents the purity of Jesus.
Ornaments are used to decorate Christmas trees each
and every year. They can symbolize the blessings
in our lives. Everything that we have is due to God
loving us so much that He wants to shower us with His
blessings. Just as ornaments are all different shapes
and sizes, blessings are all different as well. God picks
and chooses each blessing for us so that it will be just
right. When you put each ornament on your Christmas
tree, think of a blessing that God has given you. You
might find you run out of ornaments before you run
out of blessings!
The bell rings out to guide lost sheep back to the fold,
signifying that all are precious in the eyes of the Lord.
Jesus is our shepherd and He laid down His life for us
so that we may spend eternity with Him in heaven. He
is calling us to follow Him through His Word. Are you
going to listen?
52

KIDS’ CORNER
On the opposite page you’ll find a mini colouring book about
the symbols of Christmas. You can colour it in and maybe give
it as a gift this Christmas. Find out how to fold the mini-book at
catholicoutlook.info/minibook
Do you know the story of the three wise men? Do you know what
guided them to the baby Jesus and what they brought for him?
Three Kings – Magi. Image: https://www.thecatholickid.com/three-kings-magi-wise-men-coloring-page/

What’s On in the Diocese?
10 DECEMBER 2022
St Patrick’s Cathedral Advent Festival –
a night of carols and festivity
St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta
17 DECEMBER 2022
Happy Birthday Pope Francis!
20 DECEMBER 2022
Catholic schools break for Christmas and the
summer holidays
20-25 DECEMBER 2022
Christmas Masses and events in
parishes throughout the Diocese
See parracatholic.org for your nearest Mass centre
2-8 JANUARY 2023
Epiphany Pilgrimage through the Blue Mountains
Details at epiphanypilgrimage.org
27 JANUARY 2023
Official start of the school year in the
Diocese of Parramatta
27 AND 29 JANUARY 2023
Pre-marriage weekend course, Blacktown *
1 FEBRUARY 2023
Annual Legal Red Mass
7.30pm, St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta
3 FEBRUARY 2023
Sr Nathalie Becquart XMCJ Public Lecture
St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta *
8 FEBRUARY 2023
World Day of Prayer, Reflection and Action Against
Human Trafficking
11 FEBRUARY 2023
World Day of the Sick Mass
Mary Queen of the Family Church, Blacktown
17 AND 19 FEBRUARY 2023
Pre-marriage weekend course, Blacktown *
19 FEBRUARY 2023
St Bakhita Mass St Patrick’s Church, Blacktown
20 FEBRUARY 2023
Liturgical Ministry Course commences, Blacktown *
23 FEBRUARY 2023
Liturgical Ministry Course commences, Penrith *
23 FEBRUARY 2023
LIFTED Live, West HQ *
26 FEBRUARY 2023
Rite of Election at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta *
10 MARCH 2023
Penitential Service RCIA at St Patrick’s Cathedral,
Parramatta *
10 AND 12 MARCH 2023
Pre-marriage weekend course, Blacktown *
17 MARCH 2023
St Patrick’s Day Business Breakfast.
St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta
18 MARCH 2023
St Patrick’s Day Festival.
St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta
24 MARCH 2023
Masterclass for Married Sponsor Couples *
Classifieds
*contact MET@parracatholic.org for details.
The team at Catholic Outlook thank our
advertisers and contributors for your
support in 2022. We look forward to
continuing to working with you to share
the Good News in 2023.
Merry
Christmas!
Your ad here
Reach families throughout Western Sydney
and the Blue Mountains.
Catholic Outlook is the official magazine of
the Diocese of Parramatta.
Contact Christina Gretton on 0439 594 726
to place your ad.

Directory of services
(02) 8843 2500 or visit catholiccarewsbm.org.au
Chancery Office
www.parracatholic.org
(02) 8838 3400
diocese@parracatholic.org
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv
(02) 8838 3400
bishop@parracatholic.org
Catholic Education
Diocese of Parramatta
parra.catholic.edu.au
(02) 9840 5600
communityliaison@parra.catholic.edu.au
Catholic Diocese of Parramatta
Services Limited
(02) 9407 7044
enquiries@cdpsl.org.au
www.cdpsl.org.au
Ambrose Early Years Education
and School Age Care
(02) 9407 7044
enquiries@ambrose.org.au
www.ambrose.org.au
Catholic Care Western Sydney
and the Blue Mountains
(02) 8843 2500
catholiccarewsbm.org.au
Mission Enhancement Team
(MET Parramatta)
Catholic Youth Parramatta
Marriage, Family and Natural Fertility
Pastoral Formation
Peace, Justice and Ecology
Worship
met@parracatholic.org
parracatholic.org/met
Confraternity of Christian Doctrine
(02) 8838 3486
ccd@parracatholic.org
Tribunal Office
(02) 8838 3480
tribunal@parracatholic.org
Vocations
(02) 8838 3460
vocations@parracatholic.org
Parramatta Catholic Foundation
(02) 8838 3482
yourfoundation@parracatholic.org
Diocesan Development Fund
(02) 8839 4500
enquiries@parraddf.org.au
Holy Spirit Seminary
(02) 9296 6300
Office for Safeguarding
(02) 8838 3419
safeguarding@parracatholic.org
Ageing Well
Whatever your age, you will never be invisible to the people at Catholic Care. Our range of
supports aim to keep you living independently in your own home for as long as possible,
while staying connected with your friends and community.
Our Commonwealth Home Support Program support elderly people to stay living
independently at home, while our Community Visitor’s Scheme aims to reduce loneliness
and enrich people’s lives through fortnightly visits to residents at aged-care facilities.
Bringing a baby into the world
There are few things more important than caring for a newborn child. Our programs have helped
many young women who are feeling lost or have been excluded from their community and are
at risk of homelessness, to get the support they need. Our parenting support program supports
new parents finding the challenges of a newborn overwhelming.
Chaplaincy
Our chaplains provide spiritual and emotional support for patients and inmates, their
families and staff in the seven hospitals and three correctional centres throughout the
Diocese of Parramatta. An inclusive ministry available to all faiths, our 15 chaplains work
alongside others involved in the care of patients and inmates.
Children
Catholic Care offers a range of support services to ensure children are taken care of in any
situation. It starts with early years learning and childcare — our home-based early learning and
parenting program for families with young children helps them and their parents develop skills,
and our family day care helps kids get a good start with their education. Our creche is a thriving
early learning centre, providing care for children of Sudanese refugee women enrolled in English
classes offered on the grounds of Catholic Care.
Connecting with my Community
Our drop-in centres provide a safe place for people to belong and connect with others.
They are a place to be, a place to get information, join a group, and be accepted.
In Emerton, Aboriginal Catholic Services is a drop-in centre led by Aboriginal people for
Aboriginal people. In Blacktown, culturally and linguistically diverse families are accessing
support to settle into life in Australia by the team at All Saints of Africa. And at our Springwood
Drop-in Centre, established to support the community after the 2014 bushfires, clients stop by
for a chat, join a reading group or seek support with their mental health.
Living well with Disability
We all need a support network to live our lives to the fullest. Our disability support team, can
help you with living, learning and overcoming obstacles on your journey, whatever they may
look like. We can help you set goals, and achieve them, and help you build a brighter future.
As a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, we support clients
at home and in the community, whether you want to learn how to cook, need support with
personal care, or want to play sport.
Support for my Family
When life gets tough for our families, the people we care about most can suffer. Our range
of family support services can support you to better relate to your spouse and understand
their behaviour, to deal with dependence or gambling problems, single parenting, or just
connecting with your kids.
We support families who are going through the most difficult of times to cope through
separation, and with grief and loss. We help parents deal with all the stresses that can
impact your family, from anxiety and depression to money worries, gambling—we have the
people, the resources and the support to help you make it through.
55

Pope’s Prayer Intentions
This Summer, Pope Francis asks us to pray together
as a worldwide community:
DECEMBER 2022 | For volunteer not-for-profit
organisations
We pray for volunteer non-profit organisations
committed to human development; may they find
people dedicated to the common good and
ceaselessly seek out new paths to international
cooperation.
Catholic Care WSBM and Aboriginal Catholic Services
Staff at the NAIDOC Week celebrations 2022. Image:
Diocese of Parramatta.
JANUARY 2023 | For educators
We pray that educators may be credible
witnesses, teaching fraternity rather than
competition and helping the youngest and most
vulnerable above all.
An educator and student at Ambrose School Age Care
Emu Plains. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
FEBRUARY 2023 | For parishes
We pray that parishes, placing communion at the
centre, may increasingly become communities of
faith, fraternity and welcome towards those most
in need.
A welcome at Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Rouse
Hill. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
56

Latest appointments
Most Rev Vincent
Long OFM Conv,
Bishop of Parramatta,
has confirmed these
appointments in the
Diocese of Parramatta:
Rev Chukwunonyerem
Akamadu
Assistant Priest at
St Nicholas of Myra
Parish, Penrith, from
18 October 2022.
Rev Evergisto
Bernaldez MSP
Assistant Priest at Mary,
Queen of the Family
Parish, Blacktown, from
18 October 2022.
Rev Christopher
Antwi-Boasiako
Parish Priest at Corpus
Christi, Cranebrook
returned from long
service leave.
See you at Christmas Mass
Check the times at catholicoutlook.org
or parracatholic.org
Voice of the people
How can we welcome newcomers to our faith communities at Christmas?
“We should be
patient with
those new and
returning to our
Parishes, as
they may be
unfamiliar with
our worship spaces. By expressing
the joy of Christmas through our
hospitality, we may even encourage
newcomers to return in the New Year.”
Judith-Grace Vella
Youth leader at Our Lady of the Rosary
Parish, Kellyville.
Images: Supplied
“Christmas
is a good
opportunity for
us to welcome
those we might
not have seen
for a while
back into our Christian communities
as though it were Joseph and Mary
searching for an open door, an
open heart.”
Deacon Tom Green
Deacon Assisting at Mary, Queen of the
Family Parish, Blacktown.
57
“The best way to
welcome people
is with a personal
invitation. When
asked about
your plans for
Christmas,
mention your parish community and
invite them to a parish Christmas
event like carols. Remember their
name/s and something about them
that you can ask about next time.”
Rebecca Reynolds
Parishioner of St John XXIII Parish,
Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens.

Grow your money in the Diocesan
Development Fund and invest in our
Church and its people
The idea behind any investment is to put your money to work. That’s all very good, but have you ever
thought about what it could do in its spare time?
At the Diocesan Development Fund (DDF), we have.
When you invest with us, you have a chance to give a little back to the pastoral work of the Church.
Whilst your money is earning a financial return very close to the market rate, a small fraction of your
return helps the Bishop to run programs in parishes and throughout the Diocese.
Like any managed fund, the DDF is able to increase earnings by pooling the resources of its investors.
But there is one important difference; the DDF directs surplus earnings to the Bishop of Parramatta
to be used for the works of the Diocese, such as counselling programs, adult education, youth
development, pastoral or liturgical activities.
To find out more contact our friendly staff on (02) 8839 4500
or visit our website at www.parracatholic.org.au/ddf.
The DDF’s services are only available to Catholic organisations. Individual investors wishing to
support the works of the Church can find out more at cdfcommunityfund.org.au
Disclosure Statement
The Diocesan Development Fund Catholic Diocese of Parramatta (DDF) (the Fund) is required by law to make the following disclosure. The Fund is not prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential
Regulation Authority nor has it been examined or approved by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. An investor in the Fund will not receive the benefit of the financial claims scheme or the
depositor protection provisions in the Banking Act 1959(Cth). Investments in the Fund are intended to be a means for investors to support the charitable, religious and educational works of the Catholic Diocese
of Parramatta and for whom the consideration of profit are not of primary relevance in the investment decision. The investments that the Fund offers are not subject to the usual protections for investors under
the Corporations Act (Cth) or regulation by Australian Securities and Investments Commission. Investors may be unable to get some or all of their money back when the investor expects or at all and any
investment of the Fund are not comparable to investments with banks, finance companies or fund managers. The Fund’s identification statement may be viewed at https://parracatholic.org or by contacting the
Fund. The Fund does not hold an Australian Financial Services Licence.