Parish News
Thank You Father Gerard
To serve the Church where one is needed most is part and parcel of being a diocesan priest. Throughout their ordained lives, priests know they will continually be called to new communities, new ministries, and new opportunities for growth. Indeed, priests grow by being willing to change, let go, move on, and embrace whatever the Lord asks of them next.
Recently, I received word from Archbishop Shane that Fr Gerard will soon take up a twelve-month appointment at Stella Maris Catholic Parishalongside Fr Peter Brannelly. While it is never easy to say goodbye, we also recognise that this next appointment will be an important opportunity for Fr Gerard’s continued growth in leadership and ministry.
Fr Gerard arrived at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish newly ordained and, over the past two years and ten months, has become not simply one of the priests of the parish, but a deeply valued member of our parish family and mission.
Among Fr Gerard’s greatest strengths has been his one-to-one pastoral ministry. In a particular way, he has invested himself generously in the lives of children and families, as well as our youth and young adults. Through his warmth, availability, encouragement and genuine interest in people, he has formed countless friendships across our parish community. There are many people – parishioners, school families and young people alike – who will deeply miss his presence among us.
One of Fr Gerard’s most endearing qualities is his kind heart. His gentleness and sincere care for others have reflected the love of Christ to so many people– myself included. In the way he has quietly accompanied people, listened attentively, and given himself wholeheartedly to parish life, Fr Gerard has provided a beautiful example of Christian love and priestly service.
Fr Gerard’s final weekend with us will be May 30/31 before he moves to Maroochydore on Wednesday 3 June, to begin this new chapter at Stella Maris Parish. While we will certainly miss him, we also give thanks to God for the many ways he has enriched and strengthened our parish community during these past years. Please keep Fr Gerard in your prayers as he prepares for this transition and new ministry.
With every blessing on behalf of us all,
Fr Josh
Kingdom Kids Youth Group
Kingdom Kids Youth Group for children (Years 3–6) is back next week on Tuesday 26 May from 4:00pm–5:00pm at Unity College Chapel (47 Lomond Crescent, Caloundra West).. Meeting monthly, Kingdom Kids aims to help children grow in faith, build friendships, and deepen their relationship with Jesus through catechesis, formation, and fun activities together.
To register, please click HERE
Encounter Night
Our next Encounter Night will be held on Friday 19 June, and all parishioners are invited. The evening will begin with separate gatherings for youth and adults. From 6pm, young people will gather at Unity College for games and activities, while adults will enjoy drinks and nibbles from 6:15pm.
At 7pm, everyone will gather in the chapel for praise and worship, a guest speaker, personal testimony, Eucharistic Adoration, and an opportunity for prayer ministry.
Encounter Night is a chance to slow down, spend time with the Lord, and gather as a parish community. Whether you have been before or this is your first time attending, we would love to welcome you.
If you would like to attend Encounter Night, sign HERE
CEO Sleepout
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is an initiative that raises awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness. As part of the event, participants spend one night sleeping outside to gain a small insight into the reality faced by thousands of people across the country.
This year, Fr Josh is taking part in the Sleepout to help raise funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society and support Australians experiencing homelessness and hardship. To donate, please click HERE. There will also be an opportunity to give cash at Sunday Masses.
Seniors Event – May: Beerwah’s Bush Mass
The Seniors Group is organising a visit to Beerwah’s Bush Mass, which will be held at 9:00 am on Friday, 29th May. This event presents a wonderful opportunity for members to come together and participate in the Mass, followed by a relaxed morning tea.
If you would like to join us for this outing, please register HERE. For those who require it, transport can be arranged upon request.
Open House Event – Divine Renovation
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Caloundra, invites parish leaders and members of parish communities to join us for a one-day gathering called Open House.
Open House is a chance for us to open the doors of our parish and share some of our journey of renewal. Shaped by our partnership with Divine Renovation Ministry, the day is less about presentations and more about hospitality—making space to connect, share what we’ve been learning, and hear from others. There will be opportunities throughout the day to hear stories, explore key ideas around parish renewal, and take part in conversations that spark new thinking and encouragement. The aim is to create a space where people can speak openly, ask questions, and learn from one another.
The event takes place on Saturday 6th June from 9:15am – 4:15pm with an optional 5pm mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Caloundra.
This event is proudly sponsored by Holy Cross Funerals.
If you would like to attend this free event, then please sign up HERE
Ignite Conference
We want to invite you to consider joining our parish adult delegation to Ignite Conference 2026. This is an opportunity for encounter and discovery.
Ignite Conference is a vibrant, faith‑filled gathering in Brisbane from 24–27 September. The conference brings together people of all ages from across Australia who are passionate about growing the Church and encountering Jesus in a fresh way.
While Ignite has long impacted our young people, it offered a rich and inspiring experience for the adults that joined us last year. The Conference offers engaging speakers and workshops, worship, dynamic celebration of the sacraments and community with Catholics from across the nation. Please contact the office if you would like to find out more details regarding costs, accommodation and registration.
Alpha Course – July
Our parish will be offering another Alpha course beginning on Saturday 18 July and continuing through to Saturday 29 August 2026. Sessions will be held each Saturday from 1:30pm–3:30pm, with a retreat day on Saturday 15 August from 9:00am–2:00pm.
Alpha is designed for those who are new to the Christian faith, returning to the Church, or simply wanting to explore their faith in a relaxed environment. It is a place to learn about the faith, ask the big questions and grow in a Christian based community.
Do you know someone who could benefit from Alpha? If you do, then we encourage you to invite them along. Registrations are limited to 20 participants. To register please click HERE
A Year of Yes Prayer
Today and every day I say Yes to you O Lord.
In the same way that Mary said yes to your invitation, I say Yes to your Son’s presence in my life.
May my yes, by the power of your Holy Spirit, allow you to use all the talents, skills and gifts you have given me for the purpose of building up Your Body in our community.
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Have You Signed Up? Why Flocknote?
Parishioners and visitors are invited to sign up and register with the parish. If you have any questions, please see Father Josh or Gerard. Please note that if you received the old MailChimp eNewsletter, you will automatically be included in the new Flocknote eNews group.
Click the link HERE to register.
On the Journey
We pray for William & Joseph Carberry, Eleanore Abelgas and Ciana Adolfo who will be baptised this weekend at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Caloundra.
Funerals:
Howard Morris, Thursday 28 May at Sacred Heart Church, Maleny
We pray for the souls of Margaret Brown and Miriam Zendler whose funerals were on Friday 22 May and our deceased priests, religious & parishioners. May they Rest in Peace
Sponsors Of The Parish Newsletter:
