French's Forest Catholic Parish eNews

Dear Parishioners, As we celebrate the fourth Sunday of Easter, we read the passage in that presents a powerful image of trust, guidance, and true security. When Jesus describes himself as “the gate,” he is offering more than a metaphor, he is pointing to himself as the way to safety, belonging, and fullness of life. The sheep recognise the shepherd’s voice because there is a relationship built on familiarity and trust. It suggests that faith is not just about rules or obligation, but about learning to recognise and respond to a voice that calls with care and purpose. This invites reflection on the “voices” we listen to in our own lives, whether they lead us toward growth, peace, and truth, or toward confusion and emptiness. The idea of entering through the gate also speaks of choice. It suggests that fullness of life is offered, but we must actively choose to walk through that path. There is freedom in “going in and out,” yet also a sense of being grounded in something secure and nour...

The Parish of Frenchs Forest warmly welcomes Fr. Shiju Thomas OSH, who has been appointed as Assistant Priest by Archbishop Anthony Randazzo, effective 29 April 2026. Fr. Shiju is a member of the OSH Congregation and was ordained to the priesthood in 2003. He has served in various roles, including as an OSH Council member, School Administrator, and Parish Priest in India. He comes from a family of four children, being the third, with one sister and two brothers. His parents are lovingly cared for by his siblings. We give thanks for Fr. Shiju’s ministry and presence among us, and we look forward to the gifts and experience he brings to our parish community. Let us warmly welcome Fr. Shiju and wish him every blessing and success in his new pastoral journey with us. Fr. Satheesh Antony OSH, PP  

Please note the following - Mass Time Changes: On Thursday 30 April , Mass will be celebrated at 8am in both Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC) and St. Martin’s, Davidson. Thank you for your understanding.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP your attendance using the QR code, seating is limited.

Let us all pray Pope Leo's Prayer for Peace. Lord Jesus, you conquered death without weapons or violence: you shattered its power with the strength of peace. Grant us your peace, as you did to the women filled with doubt on Easter morning, as you did to the disciples who were hiding in fear. Send forth your Spirit, the breath that gives life and reconciles, that turns adversaries and enemies into brothers and sisters. Inspire in us to trust in Mary, your mother, who stood at the foot of your cross with a broken heart, firm in the faith that you would rise again. May the madness of war cease and the Earth be cared for and cultivated by those who still know how to bring forth, protect and love life. Hear us, Lord of life!

Join a powerful weekend of faith, community, and encounter with God in the beauty of creation! Saturday 6th – Sunday 7th June 2026 St Anthony’s in the Field, Terrey Hills For students aged 14–18yrs See flyer in extended online bulletin or on parish enews blog. For more details.

Manly-Freshwater parish will host a Youth Ignite night for age group 11-35 , on Sunday 3rd May. For more details see extended bulletin on our website, or parish eNews blog .