St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Kogarah

Please find your Poster, Pg 1, Pulpit Points and notices for issue 11 May 2025.

• Celebrating Mother’s Day
• Sydney’s new Bishop Tony Percy
• Requiem Mass for Pope Francis
• Deacon Tai Pham on his priestly ordination
• Maximising safety in children’s sport
• Hobart Archbishop backs an ecumenical stand on sexual ethics
• Fr Marcus Holden brings renowned insights on the Nicene Creed and evangelisation to Sydney
• Go out to the world with Christ, urges Sydney’s new Bishop Tony Percy

POPE OF THE PERIPHERIES
POPE FRANCIS 
TRIBUTE MAGAZINE 

Receive your free Magazine with your copy of this week's The Catholic Weekly Newspaper or purchase additonal copies from The Mustard Seed Bookshop.

Please find your Poster, Pg 1, Pulpit Points and notices for issue 4 May 2025.

• Requiescat in Pace Pope Francis
• The Christian heroism of Anzac Day
• 75 years of loving for Malabar couple
• Seven Churches pilgrimage grows in its second year
• The Collegian: Celebrating our schools’ Family Educators

• Remembering Pope Francis: A guiding light for Sydney’s marginalised
• Conclave to elect the next pope will begin 7 May

 

Edition 27/4/2025: 

• Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP: Statement on the passing of Pope Francis
• Sydney mourns Pope Francis

Edition 20/4/2025: 

• It's about time we celebrate together
• St Brigid's Church to turn 190

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Our Lady of Fatima Procession 2025
Walk with Our Lady of Fatima in a candle-lit procession around St Mary's Cathedral as we pray for the needs of the Church and our world.
DATE: Saturday, 10 May 2025
TIME: 6pm Vigil Mass followed by procession
For more information, visit: https://sydneycatholic.org/our-lady-of-fatima-procession
Download the flyer for more information and to promote in your parish.

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Fidelis for the year is happening on Tuesday, May 13th.

Fidelis is the Archdiocesan monthly young adults gathering, hosted by Sydney Catholic Youth. This month, we’ll be collaborating with the Sydney Archdiocese Parish Renewal Team and will host Fr Marcus Holden - Episcopal Vicar for Evangelisation and Catechesis, Southwark UK – at ACU, Strathfield Campus.

Fr Marcus will give an insightful talk on “The Creed”, followed by an open Q&A session. The night will begin with Adoration at 6pm and Mass at 6:15pm, followed by food and social time before the talk.

‘Purpose High Parish Night’ is for yr 9-12 students wanting to meet and grow in faith with other similar aged students which is on Friday 9^th May. Many of the 120 students from across the archdiocese who attended our ‘Purpose Camp’ in April will be joining us again for this event to reconnect with newly established friends, however, the invitation is open to any year 9-12 student who would like to come.

https://calendar.sydneycatholic.org/event/fidelis-the-beauty-of-the-nicene-creed/

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The Beauty of the Nicene Creed: The Truths of Faith Seen Through Christian Art
This year, the Church celebrates 1700 years since the Council of Nicaea, affirming the faith we still profess today through the Nicene Creed.
To mark this special occasion, the Parish Renewal Team and Sydney Catholic Youth are collaborating to host an evening for all - families, young adults, and the young at heart - with special guest presenter Fr Marcus Holden from the Diocese of Southwark, UK, and recently appointed Rector of the Pontifical Beda College in Rome.
Join us as we contemplate sacred images to deepen our understanding of the faith we proclaim each Sunday throughout the world.
The evening will begin with Mass, celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, then a time for supper, followed by the talk with Q&A.
Date: Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Venue: ACU Strathfield Campus
Address: 25 Barker Rd, Strathfield (onsite parking).
Register at  https://gomakedisciples.org.au/cas-events/

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Gifts in Wills Seminar
Are you from Sydney’s Inner West or surrounding areas?
Join our free Seminar on Wills, Enduring Guardianship and Powers of Attorney.
When: Wednesday, 14 May - 10-12 pm.
Where: St Canice’s Parish Church – 28 Roslyn Street, Rushcutters Bay NSW
Presenter: Cecilia Castle, Principal of Castle Lawyers.
How to book: Visit www.trybooking.com/DAJAV or call Tony Maricic on 0422 099 576.
Light refreshments will be available on the day. All are welcome.
Spaces are limited. Don’t miss out.

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Part of our immense gratitude for Pope Francis is continuing his profound legacy. It is in this spirit that we share with you a webinar invitation and educational resources for Laudato Si’ Week and the global church advocacy campaign for the Year of Jubilee, Turn Debt into Hope. 

In partnership with the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference Office for Justice Ecology and Peace, Caritas Australia is pleased to invite you and your parishioners to join us for a webinar on the eve of Laudato Si’ Week to launch the Turn Debt into Hope campaign. 

Today, unsustainable public debts rob nations of resources needed for health, education, and climate action, trapping generations in poverty. In the words of Pope Francis, "if we really wish to prepare a path to peace in our world, we must commit ourselves to remedying the remote causes of injustice, settling unjust and unpayable debts" (Spes Non Confundit, n16). We must act now to break this cycle of inequality. 

Please invite your parish community to the Turn Debt into Hope webinar. We have excellent guest speakers lined up including Leba Tamari and Dr Luke Fletcher. Registrations are now open at www.caritas.org.au/debt 

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Centenary of the canonisation of St Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face
You are invited to celebrate Mass for the 100 years since the canonisation of St Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face. Discalced Carmelite Fathers Gerard Moran and Ransom Rapirap will be among the concelebrants at the simple Mass.
A stall will also be available with a limited number of books about St Therese, including her autobiography, Story of a Soul, prayer cards, and rose-scented candles for sale. 
DATE: Saturday 17 May 2025
TIME: 12 PM
VENUE: St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney

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May Reflection Day Flyer

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Scholarship At The Cathedral: May Event

Topic: “Walking Together Side by Side in Open Dialogue and Mutual Solidarity”: The Ecumenical Patriarchate and Its Commitment to Dialogue
Speaker: Associate Professor Philip Kariatlis, at St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College
DATE: Monday 20 May 2025
TIME: 6 pm for a 6.30 start 
VENUE: St Mary’s Cathedral College, Chapter Hall
Register to attend at https://sydneycatholic.eventsair.com/scholarship-at-the-cathedral-2025/satc
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

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SmartLoving BreakThrough - Marriage Crisis Support Training for Clergy
SmartLoving is offering 'BreakThrough' Training for Clergy - a workshop and resources designed to help equip Clergy with the important task of supporting spouses in distressed marriages. Grounded in Theology of the Body 'BreakThrough' honours the unique strengths of men and women called to love and to be loved by helping them to identify their conflict triggers, learn strategies to de-escalate an argument and restore hope with practical relationship strategies. 
DETAILS:
Venue: St Martha's, 38 Renwick Street, Leichhardt NSW 2040
Date: Friday 30 May 2025
Time: 11am - 3pm.
Cost: FREE
For more information and to register for this private workshop, visit https://www.trybooking.com/CZZFO

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Engaging Your Faith May 2025 online sessions

Catholic Theological College
Invites you to our Engaging Your Faith online presentations. From $25 per session. For more information and to register: https://ctc.edu.au/news-and-events/engaging-your-faith/

We are delighted to announce the return in May 2025 of our online lecture series, Engaging Your Faith. Eleven stand-alone sessions on a range of themes will be presented by members of our lecturing staff. For more information, please see the attached flyer or our website.

These sessions would be an ideal opportunity for lay leaders and other interested people in your parish to explore the possibilities offered at CTC for personal, theological, and spiritual development. For more information, including topics, visit our website.

Cost: $25 per session or $40 if seeking accreditation.

Book and pay directly through Try Booking.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook.

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Christian Meditation Introduction and Renewal Day
You are invited to a Christian Meditation Introduction and Renewal Day at St Benedict's Monastery, 121 Arcadia Rd, Arcadia on Sunday, 18th May.
Arrival from 10am to register for a 10:30am start, presentations, introduction to meditation, Middle of the Day Prayer with the monks, Mass at 2pm, conclusion around 3pm. Book display and morning tea provided, please BYO picnic lunch. Extensive grounds and labyrinth.
General enquiries: Ann Lomas - [email protected] / 0437 340 250
Possible accommodation at the monastery guest house : Fr Michael Kelly - [email protected] / 0455 329 607

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OLSH COLLEGE KENSINGTON EX-STUDENTS MASS AND REUNION

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HOLY SPIRIT PILGRIMAGE(2025): Join Fr.Emmanuel-tv and his group of Pilgrims on a 26 Days of “SAINTS AND MARIAN PILGRIMAGE” to Portugal(Lisbon, Fatima); Spain(Coimbrea, Santiago de Compostela, Oviedo, Avila, Garabandal); France(Lourdes, Avignon, Nice, La Sallete, Ars, Nevers, Paris); and Monaco; plus(+) Medjugorje Extension from 15.09.2025-11.10.2025. Contact Us ASAP for details: Fr.Emmanuel-tv(0417999553,(08)93423079;Dax(0420643949), Didith(0473246029). Email: fremmanuel[email protected]; holyspiritp@gmail.com;

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PARISH NEWSLETTER ITEM REQUEST - MARIA FORDE

When Irish Eyes Are Smiling!
Inviting parishioners to join me on the Maria Forde Celtic Tour of Ireland 2025 (September 20 - October 4th). Enjoy two glorious weeks traversing the spectacular Irish countryside, experiencing the hospitality of the Irish people, and learning about their history and story. Enjoy Celtic music, cuisine, and sacred sites, including Glendalough, Clonmacnoise and Kylemore Abbey. Travel comfortably by coach and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a small tour. (Max 20 people) If you're worried about travelling alone or going abroad for the first time, rest assured that our Irish driver, other guests, and I will welcome and support you. For an itinerary, please contact Debbie at Emerald Travel on 96902123, debbie@emeraldtravel.com.au, or go to https://www.mariaforde.com/.

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Sri Lankan Tour with Fr. Michael Kelly

A unique opportunity to visit the cultural sites and experience the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, plus get an awareness of the needs served by the Benedictine monasteries associated with the community of St Benedict’s Monastery, Arcadia, with which there has been a 75-year contact.

The tour will be accompanied by Fr Michael Kelly OSB and will visit the main historical and cultural sites, a wildlife park and travel on a scenic rail trip. It is an ecumenical group and will visit, as well as key Benedictine undertakings, some of the Anglican activities. It will be guided by a qualified English-speaking guide and accompanied by a skilled driver
DETAILS:
Departure Date: 22 September 2025
Duration: 13 Nights / 14 Days
Cost: AU$5,945.00 per person, twin share
Upgrades: Airfares, land-only options, and single supplements are available.

To secure your spot on this extraordinary journey, a non-refundable deposit of AU $ 500 per person is required. Contact for further information and booking: [email protected]; (02)9232 1711 or for information, Fr Michael Kelly: [email protected]; 0455 329 607.
Download the flyer to promote in your parish.

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MARIAN PILGRIMAGE & ROME FOR THE JUBILEE YEAR

Thurs, 25 Sept 2025 - Mon, 20 October 2025

We will be visiting the shrines of Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Garabandal, Our Lady of Lourdes, The Shrine of the Miraculous Medal and Our Lady of Medjugorje. During the pilgrimage, you will have the opportunity to join other pilgrims to participate in the daily Masses, the candlelight processions, recite the rosary, walk the Stations of the Cross, visit and pray at the apparition sites, experience the healing & miraculous baths in Lourdes, visit the birth places and the tombs of the three children in Fatima, and many more. Other sites will include the Church of St. Anthony, Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle of Santarem, The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Basilica of Sacré Coeur and the newly restored Notre Dame in Paris. We will fly from Medjugorje into Rome and immerse ourselves into the graces of the Jubilee Year and walk through the four Holy Doors of St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, Mary Majors and St. Paul Outside the Walls to end our pilgrimage. The Spiritual Director - Father Jean-Noël Marie, Parish Priest of St. Emilie’s Canning Vale. Pilgrimage Coordinator - Edman Anthony at 0424 437 251 / [email protected] Those interested to join the pilgrimage, please contact the Pilgrimage Coordinator for the full itinerary and further details. 

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The National Liturgical Council and the Australian Pastoral Musicians Network national liturgy and music conference, Pilgrims of Hope: Transformed through Sacrament & Song, will be held at the Adelaide Hilton Hotel from 1 – 3 October 2025.

Please see the attached flyer for further information or visit the conference website for the full conference program.

Don’t miss this outstanding formation opportunity and the chance to network with others from around Australia and beyond.

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FOOTSTEPS OF ST PAUL (7th-18th October 2025)
Fr. Joseph Panackal IVdei invites you to journey in the footsteps of St. Paul, reliving the Acts of the Apostles and exploring the letters of the New Testament. Explore Greece & Turkey in this 12-day pilgrimage for a price of $8290 + tips (20+ pilgrims).
SHRINES OF OUR LADY (18th Aug- 3rd September 2025)
Fr Johnson Malayil, CRS, would like to invite you for a 16-day Jubilee pilgrimage, departing on the 18th of August 2025. This pilgrimage features Fatima, Avila, Loyola, Lourdes, Turin, Milan, Padua, Assisi, Rotondo, and Rome for an all-inclusive price of $8890 + tips (30+ pilgrims).
The fare includes Return Economy Airfares + Local Transfers in Deluxe coaches + Stay in 4-star Premium Hotels, Catholic priest, Meals + English speaking professional guides + Entrances as per itinerary and more. For inquiries & bookings call 03 8839 6615 or email us  [email protected].au

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Sydney to Host the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028
At the recent 53rd International Eucharistic Congress in Quito Ecuador, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Papal Legate, announced what the Church of Sydney had been hoping for: that we will host the 54th International Eucharistic Congress in 2028, 100 years since Sydney last hosted this great event and twenty years since it hosted World Youth Day.  
To find out more about IEC 2028, visit http://iec2028.org and join our mailing list to receive future updates.

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Women’s Group that is held at St Thomas More once a month

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Catholic Bushwalking Club

The Catholic Bushwalking Club holds at least one walk each weekend, with other activities including abseiling, cross-country skiing, caving, canyoning and cycling. For more information, go to www.cbcnsw.org.au or phone Robert on 0478 919 427.

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All the events are free and the group is open to all ages.

CatholicCare Services

Parent Line NSW
Managed by CatholicCare Sydney, Parent Line NSW is proud to support families across the state. Our experienced and qualified counsellors work to find solutions that bests support parents or carers and their family. 
Top concerns people calling Parent Line for include…

• bullying
• anxiety in children
• school refusal
• feeling alone or frustrated as a parent
• family separation
• concerns about your child’s behaviour
• parenting a child with a disability
• or something else.

Parent Line can support parents and carers by providing positive parenting strategies, useful information and referrals to other services. They can also call Parent Line to chat and discuss concerns.
We’re here to support you, helping families to thrive in 2025. Call 1300 1300 52 or visit parentline.org.au

Discover the benefits of relationship and family counselling
At CatholicCare Sydney, we understand that relationships and families often come with challenges and complexities. Our Relationship and Family Counselling service offers individual, couples, group, and family counselling and support by a qualified and experienced professional.
We provide in-person and remote services, with locations in Bankstown, Lewisham, Liverpool, and Sydney CBD. There’s currently no waitlist, helping you to move forward in 2025.
To make an appointment, please call 13 18 19 or visit catholiccare.org/rfc to learn more. 
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

Need a little Extra help at home?
CatholicCare Sydney offers a range of services for you or a loved one to remain happy in your home.
Our qualified team can help you with:

• Domestic assistance
• Day-to-day tasks like shopping
• Connecting with others
• In-home respite care
• Personal care
• Health and wellness activities
• Allied Health & Clinical Support

Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

CatholicCare Services
Home Care Services

CatholicCare Sydney offers a range of services to help you or a loved one remain happy and safe at home for longer. Our qualified and caring team can help you with:

• Domestic assistance
• Day-to-day tasks like shopping
• Connecting with others
• In-home respite care
• Personal care
• Health and wellness activities
• Allied Health & Clinical Support

To learn more, please call 13 18 19 or visit catholiccare.org.
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

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CatholicCare - Enrich Your Marriage
Invest in the most important partnership of your life!
CatholicCare Sydney offers marriage education and relationship enrichment for couples, paving the way for a happy future.
Professional educators apply proven methods to deepen the connection between couples already in a marriage AND for those preparing for a sacramental marriage.
Courses are online or available in-person. Reach out to the friendly team at CatholicCare Sydney for more information.
Call 13 18 19 or visit Catholiccare.org
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

CatholicCare - Become a Disability Services Volunteer!
Are you passionate about helping your community and making a positive impact?​
As a volunteer at CatholicCare Sydney, you’ll find the opportunity to build new experiences and make a difference in the lives of our friends with a Disability.​
Gain experience & make new connections ​
Get support for your professional development​
Contribute to your community​
Our weekly volunteers dedicate a few hours per week to accompanying our participants on fun trips and activities. Connect with amazing people and feel the warmth of friendship with CatholicCare Sydney!​
Apply to join our volunteer team. To find out more, contact Jacqui Willoughby on 0424 773 658 or email jacqui.willoughby@catholiccare.org
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

CatholicCare - Financial Counselling

Free Financial Counselling
CatholicCare Sydney offers FREE and confidential financial counselling to adults experiencing financial worries and stress.
Whether it be harmful gambling behaviours or issues with multiple loans and debts, our fully qualified and experienced counsellors can provide you with information and the support you need to move forward.
Financial Counselling provides both in-person and telecare (online and telephone) support, offering you flexibility. If you or a loved one could benefit from this service, contact our team, call 13 18 19, or visit catholiccare.org/financialcounselling to start your journey with us.
Download the tile to promote in your bulletin.

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CathEvents is now live and can be accessed at: www.cathevents.org.au.