Faith in Action: A Parish response to the call of those most in need

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” – Matthew 25:35

With the recent release of Pope Leo’s first Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te (“I have loved you” – Rev 3:9), we are reminded of Christ’s unwavering call to see, hear, walk beside, and advocate for the poor. This powerful message reaffirms the heart of our Catholic faith: Jesus’ preferential care for the vulnerable and the core principle that serving the “least of these”—those in need—is seen as serving Christ directly. It is a call that demands urgent and courageous action from us all.

As cost-of-living and housing pressures intensify, the need for compassion and practical support in our local community has never been greater. In response, our parish has launched a series of new outreach initiatives designed to serve, nourish, befriend, and bring light and love to those doing it tough.

One of these is our new partnership with Rosies – Friends on the Street. We’ve begun providing fortnightly Friday evening BBQs in Felicity Park—a warm, welcoming space where food and friendship are shared freely. Launched in the last month, the service has already been met with heartfelt gratitude from those who gather regularly on Friday evening. The first BBQ launched to a hungry crowd of almost 50 who were thoroughly wrapped with a dinner of steak burgers, sausages and salad. Who doesn’t love the smell and taste of a good BBQ? 🍖😊

The community atmosphere from the BBQ coupled with friendship and support from both Rosies and Parish volunteers has created a wonderful space where we can truly live Jesus words from Matthew 25:35. The Parish also continues to support Thursday afternoon/evening outreaches with Share-a-Meal: an initiative first launched from our Parish many years ago where volunteers prepare delicious, nutritious meals in their own homes to then bring these to serve to grateful patrons at Happy Valley.

In an ever changing world, one of the keys to being a Christian follower is having the eyes to see the present need of our time – where our efforts, resources and compassion are needed. We invite you to join us in this mission — and we’re currently seeking volunteers to help this community effort to flourish. Whether you’d like to serve as an individual or rally a group of friends from within the parish, we warmly welcome both individual and “team” applications.

Volunteering together is a beautiful way to share fellowship while making a tangible difference together. We also understand that not everyone is able to volunteer in person—but there are still meaningful ways to contribute. The parish is also offering the opportunity to sponsor a Friday night BBQ, helping cover the cost of food shared with our patrons in Felicity Park. Your sponsorship directly supports those experiencing hardship and ensures this ministry continues to grow.

Every act of service—whether through time, presence, or provision—helps us embody the love we’re called to share. If you are interested to Volunteer for one of these initiatives please reach out to our Service team via cp*******************@**************et.au or speak to one of our Service Outreach representatives who will be available in the hospitality area after this weekend’s mass.

Blessings, Service and Outreach Team

(David, Ros, Mary, Bob & Trish)