French's Forest Catholic Parish Notices and News

Dear Parishioners, This week we celebrate the second Sunday of Advent. In the Gospel John the Baptist’s call, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand,” reminds us that God’s presence is not distant or abstract, it is near, ready to break into our lives if we make room for it. John’s message is strong, but it comes from a place of deep hope. He invites us to clear away what is unnecessary, to straighten the paths of our hearts, and to let our lives bear the good fruit of faith, compassion, and humility. John also points us forward. He knows that his role is to prepare, not to finish the work. “The one who follows me is more powerful than I am,” he says, reminding us that Christ comes not only to cleanse but to transform, baptising us with the Holy Spirit and fire, with a love that purifies, strengthens, and renews. As we listen to his words today, we’re encouraged not just to feel sorry for our failings, but to turn towards God with fresh intention. Advent invites us to pre...

Reflections from Pope Francis Today there is need for people to be witnesses to the mercy and tenderness of God, who spurs the resigned, enlivens the disheartened, ignites the fire of hope. He ignites the fire of hope! We don’t. So many situations require our comforting witness. To be joyful comforting people. I am thinking of those who are burdened by suffering, tyranny and injustice. Those who are slaves to money, to power, to success, to worldliness. Isaiah’s message on this Second Sunday of Advent is a salve on our wounds and an impetus to prepare, with commitment, the way of the Lord. The prophet speaks to our hearts….if we entrust ourselves to Him with a humble and penitent heart God will open the way for us to encounter Him. The Holy Spirit will console us, for it is He who gives us the courage to go out of ourselves. It is He who 0pened the door to the source of every true comfort, that is the Father and this is conversion.  

Christmas Eve Wednesday, 24th December 2025 5:00 pm – Children’s Mass at SMDP, Davidson 5:30 pm – Children’s Mass at OLGC, Forestville 6:00 pm – Family Mass at St Anthony’s, Terrey Hills 10:00 pm – Midnight Mass at OLGC, Forestville Christmas Day Thursday, 25th December 2025 8:30 am – SMDP, Davidson 9:00 am – St Anthony’s, Terrey Hills 10:00 am – OLGC, Forestville

With the escalating cost of living many people are struggling to survive. The financial support you give to our Christmas appeal will help restore HOPE to those in need. Your donation can help put food on the table and may prevent a family becoming homeless. Donations can be made via the link below or on the Vinnies Christmas Appeal Poster link. Envelopes will be on the Church seats and buckets at the Church doors. Amounts $2 and over are tax deductible. Davidson link: https://my.fundraise.vinniesnsw.org.au/fundraise-your-way-conference/davidson-st-martin-de-porres-conference-christmas-appeal-2025 Forestville link: https://my.fundraise.vinniesnsw.org.au/fundraise-your-way-conference/forestville

Reflections on Hope from the Saints “Hope is the key that unlocks the door of possibilities” St Francis of Assisi “ Whatever our state of life, we cannot live without these three dispositions of the soul, namely, to believe, to hope and to love.” St. Augustine " Live in faith and hope, though it be in darkness, for in this darkness God protects the soul. Cast your care upon God for you are His and He will not forget you. Do not think that He is leaving you alone, for that would be to wrong Him." St. John of the Cross "Hope is the courage to trust in God’s plan, even when it seems uncertain". St Jerome "Hope is the gift that God bestows on those who seek Him with a sincere heart” St Bernard of Clairvaux

The final LS Newsletter for 2025 is available at each of our churches. Or click here to access copy online

Calling all actors and singers/musicians, young and young at heart for our Christmas Eve pageant. ST ANTHONY’S Pageant and Choir : Calling all angels, shepherds, hoteliers, wise people, stable animals, readers and singers who would like to be involved in our upcoming pageant? All ages are most welcome. When: Xmas Vigil – Wednesday, 24th December 6PM Parts and kick off: Sunday, 7th Dec after the 9am Mass Rehearsals: Each Sunday in December (after the 9am Mass) Contact: Jo Reid via parish office