St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Kogarah
Parish Notices
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In this week’s - 24 September edition:Don’t miss out!
Education
Nominate your Parish Hero!
For the past 100 years, our parishes have been the cornerstones of local Australian communities. It’s those special people that help make our nation thrive. As we move into the 21stcentury, who are the people in your parish that stand out and make our community what it is today? Tell us their story and why they deserve to be recognized as a Parish Hero. Email:parishhero@catholicweekly.com.au
Share your interesting parish news with the Catholic Weekly
Parishes can help us share news on interesting events or stand-out achievements by your parishioners directly by emailing:cweditor@catholicweekly.com.au
Without Prayer there will be no Synod
Letter from the Cardinal Mario Grech to the Bishops of the World
Vatican, 15 September 2023
In a letter addressed to bishops and eparchs from all over the world, Cardinal Mario Grech, General Secretary of the General Secretariat of the Synod, invites the faithful from around the world to prayerfully participate in the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops that will open in the Vatican on 4 October.
With this letter, the General Secretary reminds everyone that the Synodal Assembly is above all a spiritual event, of prayer and listening to the Holy Spirit who is the true protagonist of the event. In order to facilitate participation and solicit the prayerful support of the members of the assembly from local communities, the General Secretariat of the Synod has prepared a "Solemn Blessing" to be recited, in particular, at the end of Sunday Masses together with intercessory prayers. The Latin original is attached (translations are only working documents to facilitate the local Churches).
Respecting the richness of the liturgical tradition of the Oriental Catholic Churches sui iuris, the letter was also sent to the leaders of those Churches with a request to implement a similar blessing and intercessions in their Divine Liturgies.
Cardinal Grech's appeal is part of a series of initiatives aimed at recalling the eminently spiritual character of the synodal assembly and promoting the participation of the entire People of God through prayer, including:the creation, already in 2021, in collaboration with the World Pope's Prayer Network and the UISG (International Union of Superiors General), of a site (www.prayforthesynod.va) that proposes a specific prayer time for the Synod every first Monday of the month; the Ecumenical Prayer Vigil (www.together2023.net) on 30 September on the eve of the Synod broadcast in live-streaming from 4.30 p.m. on Vatican News channels (vaticannews.va); a spiritual retreat for assembly members prior to the opening of the assembly (1-3 October 2023). Read the Press Release online.
Campion CollegeFirstly, we have our Early Offer Scheme which is a way for both Year 12 students and recent graduates to gain acceptance into our College before the end of the year. The primary benefit of this is that it will give those considering attending our College the confidence to know that their place is secure for 2024. This will in turn take away some of the pressure that surrounds the transitional period into tertiary studies. Further details can be found here: https://www.campion.edu.au/admission/early-offer-scheme/ We also have our annual Campion Ball coming up soon which is a fantastic way for young adults to spend time in fellowship with other young Catholics in the greater Sydney region. Further information can be found at: https://www.campion.edu.au/event/campion-ball/ Some resources you can use are in the links below:
ST. PADRE PIO FEAST DAY & BLESSING WITH ST. PADRE PIO'S RELICAddress: 34 William Howell Drive, Glenmore ParkThree Day Triduum:• 21 Sept – 7.00pm Novena followed by Mass.• 22 Sept – 7.00pm Novena followed by Mass.• 23 Sept – 5.30pm Novena followed by Vigil MassFeast Day Mass:Sunday 24 September, 10:00am.Solemn Procession with the Relic of St. Padre Pio followed by the Solemn Feast Mass. Blessing by the Relic of St. Padre Pio. Other festivities.Everyone is welcome. Enquiries to: (02) 4789 2232 or glenmorepark@parracatholic.org
Become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion - new online training programEffective liturgical celebrations require well-formed liturgical ministers to serve the needs of the assembly. Our comprehensive online training program will prepare you to offer your gifts for the glory of God and the benefit of your local community.Created by leading Australian liturgy specialists, this five-week program fosters and develops knowledgeable, well-prepared, highly skilled and hospitable Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. High-quality content is presented in an innovative and engaging way, and it offers quality liturgical formation in a supportive environment – no matter the size or location of your faith community.While this program is designed for new ministers, those with many years of ministry have found it to be an outstanding way to refresh their skills and deepen their understanding of the liturgy.Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion from the ACU Centre for Liturgy. This program is supported by the Bishops Commission for Liturgy of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference.The next EMHC online training program will start on 26 September 2023.
Divine Retreat Centre: September Programs
Located around one hour's drive north of Sydney in Somersby, the centre offers several one-day and weekend retreats throughout August. Parishes are invited to share this flyer with the September program
Heart of Life Seminars – Semester 2. Please join us!What better way to rejuvenate your spirituality, learn something new and meet a great bunch of people – join Heart of Life seminars in-person or online from the comfort of your own community on a Monday or Wednesday morning for the next two terms. From 17 July 2023 - 9 November 2023. Days and times vary according to the Seminars chosen. For descriptions of all of the Seminars click here. https://www.heartoflife.melbourne/seminars-and- reflection-events/seminars/
Catechesis - Our Lady of Lourdes, Earlwood
Start Monday 4 September - Mondays and Thursdays 7:30pm to 8:30pm (for about 15 evenings) Free babysitting is provided. Aldo on 0416 028 706.
Sacred Music – Workshop for Parish Cantors and MusiciansWhen: Saturday 30th September 2023, 9am-2pmWhere: St Thomas Parish Hall, 3 Thomas Street, Lewisham, NSW 2049.Presenters: Australian Sacred Music AssociationLimit: 25 people. Register on-line.The purpose of this course is to train and form Parish Musicians to lead the sacred music in their parish setting. This one day workshop is designed to equip Parish Musicians (with confident vocal skills and good music literacy) to sing the texts of the liturgy and understand the various parts of the music of the Mass: Common, Ordinary, Proper, Hymns, Instrumental. The necessary pre-requisite for this course is a recommendation from one’s parish priest confirming one’s basic knowledge of music. For absolute beginners, the course “Sacred Music – Congregants” is recommended as a good place to start their journey with sacred music.
Areté Centre Social Media Masterclass - Free to Parishes and Ministry Teams
You are invited to an immersive digital journey that will redefine the way you approach social media for your parish or ministry! Understand how to harness the power of different platforms and create inspiring and resonant content. This masterclass will help you elevate your digital media presence, nurture spiritual growth, foster and grow your community, and inspire hope.
This Masterclass is perfect for anyone interested in using social media for their parish or ministry, whether you’re a beginner or looking to level up your digital ministry game.
DATE: Saturday 14 October 2023
TIME: 1.15pm – 4.00pm
LOCATION: Marist Catholic College Theatrette, 65 Victoria Street, Penshurst NSW 2222
(street parking available)
To register to attend, visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1113440
Aid to the Church in Need invites all parishes, schools and families to take part in our annual “One million children praying the Rosary,” on 18 October 2023. Last year 40,000 Australian children participated. Free resources can be found online including reflections for children and a prayer of consecration for children to the Mother of God. To learn more and to register visit www.aidtochurch.org/onemillionchildren.
Made Free: Creative Retreat, 20-22 October 2023
Join the MGL Sisters in a weekend retreat that explores a range of creative prayer experiences. Recapture the freedom you were made for, let go of what is burdening you, and let God fill you again with life. Venue: Carmel House, 345 St Andrews Rd, Varroville NSW
Bookings: http://www.trybooking.com/CFBRD (by 6 October)
Contact: Judy - mglsisters.sydney@gmail.com
Download the tile to promote in your parish bulletin.
Virtuous Man: Men's Silent Retreat
The Sydney Vocations Centre is holding organising a Silent Retreat for Men from 20-22 October 2023 at St Mary's Towers, Douglas Park. The retreat will allow participants to come away and grow in love for our Lord and kindle their desire to give Him glory by their way of living.
For more information and to register, please visit https://vocationcentre.org.au/events/mens-silent-retreat- . Download the flyer and bulletin tile to promote the retreat in your parish.2023/ 
Life, Marriage and Family Sunday
All families are invited to come to 10:30 Mass at St Mary's Cathedral on Sunday the 22 October, with an opportunity for renewal of marital promises and a special blessing for families. Join us after Mass at the Cathedral Hall to witness and celebrate couples celebrating significant wedding anniversaries. Registrations are essential to receive a certificate. RSVP by no later than 8 October at http://www.trybooking.com/CJTNF
7 Churches Pilgrimage
The Emmanuel Community invites parishioners and families to the 7 Churches Pilgrimage on October 14 2023. Join pilgrims as they walk to significant church sites in Sydney and reflect on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Starting at 9:00am at Mary MacKillop Place North Sydney and finishing at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Randwick. Please register to receive more information and updates: https://forms.gle/3bAFMmpyXmm3muN27 . Download the tile to promote in your parish bulletin.
Catholic Theological College is running the online unit Teaching Meditation and Prayer over two Saturdays in June and two Saturdays in October. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
Catholic Theological CollegeOnline unit presented over 4 Saturdays 17, 24 June; 7, 14 OctoberTeaching Meditation and Prayer
Lecturer: Dr Christopher Morris
To enrol or for further information:
Dr Christopher Knauf, Registrar: registrar@ctc.edu.auThis unit offers an ideal opportunity for lay leaders and other interested people in your parish to develop skills in facilitating meditation and prayer within a parish context. The emphasis is on silent meditation and establishing places of silence in a contemporary context.The unit may be undertaken as part of an undergraduate or postgraduate award (including the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Meditation), as a single unit for credit, or for personal enrichment (no assessment/credit). It forms part of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Mediation which is recognised by Meditation Australia.
You Are Not Alone Retreat Day
“You are not alone” is a retreat day for couples who are struggling or have been unable to have children due to infertility, miscarriage or stillbirth. The day will be held on the 7th of October 2023 at the Mt Schoenstatt Spirituality Centre, Mulgoa and will include meals, talks, prayer, reflection, and sharing. The Emmanuel Community will facilitate the retreat with the support of the Life Marriage and Family Team. Due to the sensitive nature of this experience, spaces will be limited.
Couples should RSVP by the 2nd of October at http://www.trybooking.com/CKWXP
DidaskÅ Adult Faith Formation
Learn more about Jesus and the beauty and riches of our Catholic faith!
The Parish Renewal Team has partnered with the University of Notre Dame Australia to deliver a series of five online short courses, each consisting of three evening sessions.
Topics include Philosophy, Scripture, Theology, Christology, and Moral Theology. Ideal for beginners and those interested in continuing their formation.
Special Offer for Parishes: Make the most of this opportunity by gathering a group in person and sharing the learning experience with others. If you would like ideas about how to organise this, contact the Parish Renewal Team at parishrenewal@sydneycatholic.org .
Cost per course: $35 per person or $100 per Parish Group for an in-person gathering (+ booking fees).
To find out more and to register, visit https://gomakedisciples.org.au/cas-events/ .
Download the event tile for your bulletin.
Retreat Day for Parish Staff - The Spring of Eternal Life (Jn 4:14)
The Parish Renewal Team invites all parish staff of the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney to a day of retreat; to encounter Jesus and to be refreshed and renewed in your work of serving His Church. You give so much - this is your time to receive! Select the date that suits you.
Dates:
Option 1: Wednesday, 8 November 2023
Option 2: Thursday, 9 November 2023
Time: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Venue: St Martha’s (formerly Sydney Catholic Schools)
Location: 38 Renwick Street, Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Cost: $10 per person (plus booking fees)
The programme includes Mass, talks, prayer, quiet time and reflection, morning tea and lunch.
Register at https://gomakedisciples.org.au/cas-events/ .
Catholic Medical Association AustraliaNational ConferenceThe First National Catholic Medical Association Conference will be held at St. Joseph’s Conference and Retreat Centre, Baulkham Hills, from 10th to 12th November, 2023. Attached is a flyer with the programme for the Conference. Bishop Umbers will be the principal celebrant for the White Mass (Red Mass for lawyers, White Mass for doctors) during the Conference.
The Christian’s Final Journey: Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria and partner, the ACU Centre for Liturgy, are offering a one-day workshop on Catholic funerals on 14 November 2023. It has been designed for all those interested in Catholic funerals including parishioners, clergy, Funeral Directors, Bereavement Teams, Pastoral Associates, Parish Secretaries and Family Faith Educators, and all school staff. Catholic practices around burial and cremation will be investigated as well as preparation of a funeral (for future discussion with the funeral celebrant) and how to support the grieving. It will be held at Club Ashfield, 1-11 Charlotte Street Ashfield NSW. Time: 9am-5pm (registration from 8.30am). Registration is essential by 9 November. Cost: $60 (includes lunch and a workbook) ($120 for Funeral Directors who will receive certification for 5 years.) Enquiries: CentreforLiturgy@acu.edu.au or 02 9701 4751. For more information, and to register, go to www.acu.edu.au/centreforliturgy/pastoral-training
Areté 2024 Foundations in Missionary Leadership Course
Applications are open for the Archdiocese of Sydney subsidies for the Areté 2024 Foundations in Missionary Leadership course.
The Sydney Centre for Evangelisation has a limited number of partial subsidies available for parishioners of the Archdiocese of Sydney who meet the criteria of the subsidy agreement. To apply for a subsidy or to find out more, contact parishrenewal@sydneycatholic.org and register for the Areté open night at www.aretecentre.org. Places will fill quickly. Download the tile to promote in your bulletins.
Catholic Theological College would like to bring to your attention Dr Rosemary Canavan’s 2024 Study Tour: Journey with Paul: Türkiye – Greece that might be of interest to you, your lay ministers, or interested parishioners. Please see the attached flyer for more information.There will be online information sessions in September and October 2023. For anyone interested in attending one of the information session, please contact Dr Rosemary Canavan to register.Tour participants have the opportunity to undertake a study unit with CTC in conjunction with the tour for credit towards an award (additional costs and conditions apply)
DidaskÅ Adult Faith Formation
The Parish Renewal Team has partnered with the University of Notre Dame Australia to deliver a series of five online short courses, each consisting of three evening sessions. Topics include Philosophy, Scripture, Theology, Christology, and Moral Theology. Ideal for beginners and those interested in continuing their formation.
Special Offer for parishes: Make the most of this opportunity by gathering a group in-person and sharing the learning experience with others.
Cost per course: $35 per person or $100 per Parish Group for an in-person gathering (+ booking fees).
To find out more and to register, visit https://gomakedisciples.org.au/didasko/ .
Catholic Help with Alcoholism and Addiction
Calix Society
CALIX “We substitute the cup that sanctifies for the cup that stupefies”.
Stay and sober with the Catholic faith and a 12-Step program. Join is in prayer for: total abstinence, spiritual development, and personal sanctification. Do you “thirst” for more?
APPEALS
Visit: www.caritas.org.au/syria-turkey or call 1800 024 413 toll free to donate now.
Aid to the Church in Need is running an emergency campaign for Pakistan. Recently up to 24 churches, hundreds of Christian homes and a Christian cemetery were targeted in an attack in Pakistan which was sparked by reports of blasphemy allegations against two Christians accused of desecrating the Qur’an. ACN is working with project partners on the ground to aid the current needs of the Christian people. To learn more and to make an offering visit www.aidtochurch.org/pakistanappeal .
Support for the House of Welcome
The House of Welcome works with people seeking asylum and refugees to provide critical casework, housing, employment, food bank and emergency living assistance. During COVID-19 the demand for financial assistance has risen. HoW has increased the Emergency Living Package program by 216% to respond to the amplified levels of distress and hardship amongst their clients. In the last few months House of Welcome has delivered emergency assistance and been able to support clients to maintain their tenancies and assisted those who have come to the centre homeless. There are a number of ways that you can help such as donating to the Emergency Relief Package or donate staple food items to the House of Welcome foodbank.
SERVICES/RESOURCES AVAILABLE
Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria manages four cemeteries within the Western Sydney area.Online training program for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy CommunionAre you looking for thorough, consistent, world-standard, and locally delivered training for your lay liturgical ministers? ACU Centre for Liturgy has developed a comprehensive, engaging and truly formative online training program for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (and will add a program for Ministers of the Word shortly). This excellent program has been crafted by expert pastoral liturgy educators specifically for the Australian context using the most informed and contemporary interactive online learning principles and techniques.We are planning to start a new training program in March, aiming to prepare parishioners to exercise their ministry with confidence and devotion during the Easter season. If you would like any of your parishioners to join this program I invite you to send along your nomination of suitable candidates as soon as possible. This can be done from our website http://www.acu.edu.au/centreforliturgy/pastoral- training or by contacting the Centre on (02)9701 4751 or CentreforLiturgy@acu.edu.au. 
Catholic Lay Chaplains - St George Public Hospital
Gary Cartmer and Sister Maria Pineda are Catholic Care Lay Chaplains at St George Public Hospital Tue, Wed and Thu. They are there to provide emotional, spiritual and sacramental support for you or your family member. If you would like their support, please feel free to call the Chaplains office on 9113 2189 and leave a message with the patients name and they will provide ongoing support during their stay.Catholic Men’s Fellowship
Catholic Men’s Formation and Prayer Group currently meet Thursdays 8-9pm, via online conference (zoom). We are a group of men who have met on a regular basis over the past ten years. We invite men to various formation programs, and to conclude with Prayer of the Church. Our chaplain is Deacon Louis Azzopardi. We are currently using Kapaun’s Men, Virtue Series. For details on how to connect, contact Lee Caruana via email leecaruana@hotmail.comCome and Listen! Catechesis at Leichhardt
Everyone wonders about the meaning of life.
Why did God create me?
Why does God allow certain things to happen to me?
Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:30pm
St Fiacre’s Parish Hall
90 Catherine St, Leichhardt
Enquiries: David- 0418-245-159Jesus Light of the World Communities
Every Saturday at 3 pm
“ReCHARGE” Gathering: Praise & Worship + Talk + Prayer & Empowerment + Fellowship
Where: St Joseph’s Parish Hall
Walz St, Rockdale, NSW (Parking at Parker St.)
Enquiries: Helen 0433 455 114 Ida 0424 267 500
E: jlowcommunity@gmail.com More information: www.jlowcom.orgPregnancy Help Sydney - Supporting Vulnerable Pregnant Women
‘I'm pregnant, scared and don’t know what to do. Can I talk to you?' Pregnancy Help Sydney, a life-affirming organisation, has been receiving these types of calls Australia-wide for over 40 years. Our free, confidential and non-judgemental 24/7 telephone support service has helped thousands of women who have reached out to us. Embarking on motherhood should be a joyous occasion when a baby is planned for and welcomed into the life of its mother. Yet, for a significant number of women, this is not their reality. Our organisation provides an empathetic listening ear to support the woman who is challenged by her pregnancy, and together, explore the best options for her and her baby. So this Mother’s Day, we are thrilled to be launching, as another tool to help women facing a difficult situation, our refreshed website: http://www.pregnancyhelpsydney.com Pregnant? Worried, confused, feeling alone? Want to chat? Call our 24/7 support line 1300 792 798 or visit our website http://www.pregnancyhelpsydney.com .SMARTLOVING BREAKTHROUGH
Liberating insights and powerful tools for anyone experiencing a challenging marriage
Learn how arguments happen
Understand your internal drivers
Process the pain of past injuries
Restore hope for your relationship's future
COUPON CODE 50% OFF
Use the coupon below at the checkout
SydneyConnect
*limited time offer
www.SmartLoving.org/Breakthrough
Our local aged care in Kogarah (Bethlehem House) has a long-standing relationship with St Patrick’s.
From Archbishop Anthony
EthicsFinder.com
EthicsFinder is a free, global, digital resource which will be of immense value to interested parishioners. Please feel free to include a link to https://www.ethicsfinder.com/ on your parish and school websites. Wish you could easily find Church teaching and the best articles, books and videos on bioethics, business ethics, cancel culture, human rights, marriage, subsidiarity, and 100+ other topics? Try ACU’s free digital tool www.ethicsfinder.com.
HIGHLIGHT YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION - IT’S FREE
Feature your Wedding, Birth, Engagement, Confirmation, First Holy Communion, Anniversary or Baptism.DETAILS: Send a hi res image, details of the event (ie: names of participants, date where it was held, Celebrant, photographer + 60 words about the occasion to personal.occasions@sydneycatholic.org For more details go to: https://www.catholicweekly.com.au/occasions/ ---
Positions Vacant – Catholic Jobs OnlineMinistry/Liturgy Coordinator – St Christopher’s Panania and St Patrick’s Revesby Heights
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Property, Facilities and Fleet Manager – CatholicCare, Sydney - Reach HR - Lewisham
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General Manager – Culture and Administration – Sisters of Charity, Australia - Reach HR – Bondi Junction
> Learn More
Classroom Music Teachers WantedSydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is looking for specialist Instrumental tutors in Brass, Woodwind and Strings and Classroom Music Teachers to work in our primary and secondary schools, from one to five days per week.Tutors will commence in Term 1, 2024 and to start applying, you can view the live advert on our Sydney Catholic Schools website here. All Classroom Music Teacher positions will be advertised from Monday, 24 July.Could we also ask you kindly post the attached flyer on your bulletin boards to assist us in spreading the word.For further information,please contact the SCS’ Recruitment team at: talentacquisition@syd.catholic.edu.au .
Mission: Change their lives… and yours
Communities in Africa, Asia or the Pacific are seeking Australians from a variety of professions and trades to share their skills with those who have less opportunity to develop their talents.
Explore 35 positions on our website where you’ll also find news on those currently supported in Timor-Leste, Samoa, American Samoa and Thailand.
Please enquire further about potential assignments for you or someone you know:
Contact PALMS on: 0422 472 567 or visit: www.palms.org.au.
Kimberley Catholic Volunteer Service - Call for Volunteer Workers-Urgently Needed.
The Diocese of Broome, WA, urgently requires volunteers to assist with the work of the local Church on Aboriginal Missions. There are various important voluntary tasks: administration, building maintenance, gardening, shop staffing, cooking, cleaning etc. Placements are preferred for a period of 6 months plus. In return for being part of the team, we offer accommodation, living expenses and an allowance.
For further details, and an application form, please contact:
Volunteer Coordinator, Janet Ryan: 08 9192 1060
Email: volunteers@broomediocese.org
Web: www.broomediocese.org
Mail: PO Box 76, BROOME WA 6725
Marian Court Units
Marian Court Units is an independent living village for over 55s, acquired by the Trustees of Catholic Aged Sydney in April 2022. Conveniently located near Strathfield station and shopping centre, we have several vacant units featuring one bedroom one bathroom (46sqm) and two bedrooms two bathrooms (65sqm). There is a sliding scale of entrance and exit fees to suit your circumstances. Please call the Manager on 0400 077 081 for an appointment to see the available units.
