The first quarter of 2026 has been an exciting and fruitful one for the Service Outreach team. As we seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus and share His radical love with those in need in our community, we have seen a number of encouraging wins and successful initiatives. It has been a grace‑filled start to the year, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who has played a part.

Community Cooking:
Our Community Cooking team recently completed the first round of cook‑ups for 2026, with more than 200 meals going into the parish and St Vincent de Paul food bank for distribution to those in need. Volunteers from the parish joined with students and teachers from Unity College to prepare, cook, and package the meals, creating a wonderful atmosphere of teamwork and service. It was a joyful experience for volunteers and a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when our parish and school community work together.

Share-a-Meal Outreach Relaunch:
The Share‑a‑Meal community outreach, first begun in our parish more than 25 years ago, has recently undergone a relaunch in partnership with St Vincent de Paul to provide strengthened support, resources, and coordination, ensuring this much‑loved ministry continues to thrive into the future. After a brief pause Share‑a‑Meal relaunched at Happy Valley at the start of April to much thanksgiving and gratitude from the regular patrons who attend and depend on this important outreach. A huge thank‑you to the Share‑a‑Meal and St Vinnies teams for the tremendous work they have done to ensure this vital ministry remains a light and support for those in our community.

Reconciliation Action Plan Group
The Parish held a wonderful Reconciliation Action Plan Networking Workshop in March and is now forming a working group for those who feel called to help make our parish a more welcoming and safe place for our Indigenous brothers and sisters. It’s not too late to be involved. The RAP team is now meeting monthly to connect, learn, and begin shaping our parish’s Reconciliation Action Plan. If you would like to join and be part of this important journey or any of our other ministries, please reach out to the Service Outreach team via cp.serviceandoutreach@bne.catholic.net.au

With thanks and gratitude – The Service Outreach Team

Ros, Mary, Trish, Bob, David