Service and Outreach Ministry Update

As we move forward in 2026, the Service & Outreach team is excited to share what’s ahead across our ministries and community initiatives.

Reconciliation Action Plan Networking Workshop – Implementing the RAP

We are pleased to share the new date for the RAP Networking Workshop. This gathering offers an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and connection to Country. Many parishes from across the Archdiocese will be joining us, and we warmly invite OLR parishioners to take part.

We are grateful to welcome local elder Kerry Jones, a Kabi Kabi man from the Sunshine Coast and Director of the Bunya Bunya Country Aboriginal Corporation, who will lead our opening session. This will be followed by a practical workshop on implementing the RAP locally, including steps to strengthen the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture within our parish.

Event Details
Date: Saturday 14 March 2026
Time: 10:00am for a 10:30am start – 2:30pm
Location: Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 61 Edmund Street, Caloundra
Cost: Free – donations welcome to support future RAP and Truth Telling events
RSVP: By Thurs 12 March. Please register HERE.

Please bring a savoury or sweet plate to share for morning tea and lunch, and label any dietary considerations (e.g., dairy‑free, gluten‑free).

Community Cooking and Community Outreach BBQ

Our Community Cooking Initiative with Unity College continues in 2026, with new cooking dates set for Term 1. Generous parishioners will join students and staff at Unity College to prepare delicious and nutritious meals for those in need. Additionally, our Friday night Community Outreach BBQ continues to shine as a place of welcome and care, offering friendship, connection, and full bellies to those who need it most.

2026 – The Jubilee of St Francis of Assisi

As we conclude the Jubilee of Hope celebrated across the Church in 2025, we now enter a new year of grace: the 800‑year Jubilee of St Francis of Assisi, inaugurated by Pope Leo from January 10, 2026 to January 10, 2027.

This Jubilee invites every Christian to follow the example of St Francis – a man of peace and humility, who cared for the poor and held deep reverence for God’s creation. Throughout the year, our Care for Creation team will offer a range of initiatives and events to help us reflect on St Francis’ witness and renew our commitment to caring for our common home.

Invitation to Serve

As we look to grow and expand our impact in 2026, we are always seeking new volunteers across these ministries. If you enjoy cooking, love serving and supporting others, or would like to join the Care4Creation team during this special year of grace, please get in touch at marshalld@bne.catholic.net.au

Many Thanks –

The Service Outreach Team: Bob, Trish, Mary, Ros and David