Happy Mother’s Day!

A blessed Mother’s Day to all mothers, grandmothers, and motherly figures in our parish community. Quite literally, without mothers the world would not exist. But beyond that, our mothers are often the first to plant the seeds of faith in our hearts. Through their love, sacrifice, and quiet witness, they teach us how to listen for God’s voice.

A mother’s love reflects God’s love for us, and that’s the heart of the Good News. Just as Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice,” many of us first learn to recognise that voice through our mothers. In their lullabies, whispered prayers, comforting words, and gentle guidance, we begin to understand what love sounds like, the same kind of love we hear and see in Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Mothers help us recognise the voice of Christ by the way they love: patiently, gently, and sacrificially. They remind us that we are never alone and lead us, through both word and example, toward the One who holds us in his hand and never lets us go.

God bless you, dear mothers, for reflecting Jesus’ love in a way that brings smiles to our faces and makes the world feel warm and safe.

Our Second Annual Parish Service Day

We are fast approaching National Volunteers Week (19-25 May) where we will celebrate our Annual Parish Service Day (all 24/25 May masses). Generosity is one of our six Parish Values — a vital part of what keeps our church thriving and full of life. Those who volunteer and offer their unique skills, gifts, and talents help to create a welcoming community and lead others into a deeper encounter with God through their generous service. On the day, I envision each mass to have tables representing our six ministry groups, each offering information and an invitation to
get involved.

Our Annual Parish Service Day is a special opportunity to recognise all who serve so generously in our community. It’s also a chance for others to step forward and commit to a ministry for the year ahead. I warmly invite you to prayerfully consider where God might be calling you to serve over the next 12 months.

Our Second Annual Parish Service Day

Traditionally, the Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Good Shepherd Sunday, when the Gospel reminds us of Jesus’ declaration: “I am the Good Shepherd. The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice.” As Christians, we are called to listen attentively to God’s voice in our lives. Not coincidentally, this Sunday is also the World Day of Prayer for Vocations — a time of reflection and encouragement as we pray for all people to hear God’s voice, calling us to serve His mission in the world. We pray particularly for all vocations: the priesthood, diaconate, religious life, single life, and married life. Quo Vadis? Where might God be calling you?

Have a Blessed Week, Fr Gerard