Community Life Ministry Update

Introducing the 2026 Community Life Ministry team: Elaine, Therese, Precy, Mary, Kath and Janice:

Throughout the Parish, our aim is to “facilitate experiences of connection and participation” and to help build up a “vibrant” community where everyone feels they “belong” whilst creating opportunities that enable us to “actively accompany people to encounter Jesus”.

Hospitalities after all weekend masses are attracting ever-increasing numbers, thanks to loyal and friendly volunteers serving on teams and generous people who bring a plate to share. Fun, lots of chatter, laughter and new connections and friendships are enjoyed by many. A meeting for hospitality coordinators and all hospitality volunteers will be held on Friday, February 20th at 10am in the Dobson room at OLR Caloundra Parish, to celebrate wins, discuss food handling regulations and kitchen procedures and how we can improve even more.

A Welcomers training session was held on Nov 29, 2025, to thank our volunteers and remind them of the important role they play welcoming and assisting parishioners and visitors especially with the busy Christmas and holiday period. If you would like to assist in this space, please let us know!

A big win in the Community Life Team was the introduction of the Seniors Group, which started last October with Fr Gerard’s support. We have enjoyed regular monthly catchups such as a guided tour of the Maroochy Gardens, Fishing at Bullcock Beach, card games, the very popular Christmas Carols morning and lastly Dabbling in Art with parishioner Jude. Our seniors continue to inspire us with their joy and great community spirit!

Our extra focus for 2026 will be to help organise various whole parish celebrations, such as National Volunteers week in May and OLR Feast Day in October. Most importantly, the Community Life Team will support the new Compassion and Connection Ministry to care for those parishioners who are unable to worship and actively participate with any of our Mass Communities.

A final win in this space is that name badges are increasingly being worn and have proved to help break down barriers between both existing and new parishioners, creating a greater opportunity for connection and relationships. Orders are still being taken and welcomed.

For more information or to volunteer in the Community Life Team, please contact Janice: chilcottj@bne.catholic.net.au