Dear Friends,
As we journey through the sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the prophet Joel’s call to “tear our hearts and not our garments” (Joel 2:13). This time of reflection and renewal invites us to look beyond outward appearances and focus on the transformative power of compassion and service. It is in this spirit that I share the inspiring work of our Catholic Social Services community, whose efforts continue to be a beacon of hope across Australia.
My ‘listening tour’ continues apace, each visit reaffirming the dedication and compassion that define our members.
In Melbourne, I had the privilege of meeting with Julie Edwards, CEO of Jesuit Social Services, and attending the JSS Annual Dinner. The evening was a wonderful celebration of connection and inspiration, highlighted by the launch of The Justice Project, which aims to break the cycle of crime and harm. I encourage you to learn more about this important initiative here. The conversation with Julie and her team showcased how our Catholic values translate into tangible support for those on the margins.
My visit to Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Goulburn, where I met with CEO Anne Kirwan and her dedicated team, was truly uplifting. Their work exemplifies how our Catholic values translate into practical, compassionate action in our communities.
I also had an enriching meeting with Bishop Martin Ashe, which provided valuable insights into how we can further align our efforts with the Church’s mission of love and service.
I was deeply honoured to attend the Divine Liturgy commemorating the elevation of Cardinal Bychok, and our subsequent conversation about our members’ wonderful work in the community was both affirming and inspiring. We look forward to hearing Cardinal Bychok at our upcoming National Conference.
The CSSA National Conference: Hope in Action from 19-20 March 2025, is an opportunity to come together as a community, inspired by our shared mission to serve the most vulnerable. Just as Lent calls us to prayer, sacrifice, and service, this gathering will challenge and equip us to turn hope into tangible change — in our organisations, in our advocacy, and in the lives of those we walk alongside.
Attending my first Bishop’s Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service was a highlight of the month. This gathering provided a valuable platform to share with the Bishops and my Agency colleagues about our collective mission and the inspiring work happening across our community. It was heartening to witness the depth of commitment, and the breadth of initiatives aimed at creating a more just and compassionate society.
I have also been engaged in numerous conversations about our vision to build a movement for the Common Good, inspired by Catholic Social Teaching. Meetings with Catholic former Prime Ministers Tony Abbott and Malcolm Turnbull were particularly insightful, recognising the value of our community’s work and our approach to advocating for policies that serve the Common Good rather than sectional interests.
Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters in Queensland and northern NSW as they face the impacts of heavy rain from ex-Cyclone Alfred. We pray for their safety and the wellbeing of their communities during this challenging time.
In these times of global challenges, we also offer our prayers and thoughts for the Holy Father as he faces his current trials. May he find strength and guidance in his leadership of our Church.
Each of these experiences reinforces the vital importance of our mission. As people who have received the Good News, we are called to share it through our actions, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to those in need.
Your dedication to this shared mission is truly inspiring. As we move forward through this Lenten season and beyond, may we continue to support one another, learn from each other, and work tirelessly in pursuit of the Common Good. Your efforts make a profound difference in the lives of countless Australians, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
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