French's Forest Catholic Parish eNews

Dear Parishioners, The readings for this week speak of God’s saving presence among His people, our need for trusting Faith in our loving and providing God Who always keeps us company, and our need for prayer in storms of life. This week’s Gospel we reflect on how Life often feels like the stormy sea. We all experience moments when the waves of worry, illness, grief, uncertainty, or change threaten to overwhelm us. It is in these moments that Jesus comes to us with the same reassuring words he spoke to the disciples: "Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid." Peter's response is one we can all relate to. Filled with trust, he steps out of the boat and walks towards Jesus. Yet when he focuses on the wind instead of the Lord, fear takes over and he begins to sink. How often do we do the same? When we allow our fears to become greater than our faith, we lose sight of the One who is always reaching out to us. Jesus does not abandon Peter when he falters. Instead, he immediately rea...

Selecting "Catholic" in the Census is more than a statistical exercise. It helps ensure that the presence and needs of the Catholic community are recognised within Australian society. Census information is used by governments, researchers and community organisations to: Plan schools, hospitals and community services; Inform the allocation of resources and funding; and Better understand the spiritual, cultural and social life of our nation.  An accurate picture of the Catholic community strengthens the Church's ability to advocate for the needs of our people and to continue serving communities across Australia. Every person who identifies as Catholic helps tell the story of the Church's continuing presence and mission in Australia. Your response contributes to a clearer understanding of the Catholic community, enabling the Church to better serve those in need, support families, educate future generations, and continue proclaiming the hope of the Gospel with confidence....

There is no place like home – but for many having a home is not a reality . The causes may be diverse, but the impact is the same – a loss of dignity and a sense of hopelessness. A donation drive will take place during Homelessness Week , this weekend 8 & 9 August. Thank you in advance for supporting this important Diocesan initiative.

All parishioners are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Holy Day of Obligation. · Vigil Mass – Friday, 14 August 7:30pm – Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Forestville Masses – Saturday, 15 August 8:30am – St Martin de Porres Church, Davidson 9:30am – Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Forestville 10:00am – St Anthony in the Fields Church, Terrey Hills Come and honour our Blessed Mother as we celebrate this beautiful and significant feast in the life of the Church.  All are warmly welcome.

The Season of Creation starts 1 September, World Day of Prayer for Creation, and ends 4 October, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology.  Please save the date for the Parish Festival of Creation beginning with the Mass of Creation, Saturday 12th September.  A day for all the family and each and every person.    

Following the 10:00am Mass at OLGC Forestville, on the lawn beside the church. Our parish is blessed with people from many different cultures, and we would love to celebrate this wonderful diversity together. Join us for a joyful Multicultural Celebration & International Food Festival, where we can share our traditions, food, and friendship as one parish family. If you have traditional clothing from your country, we encourage you to wear it with pride. We also invite you to bring a plate of your favourite traditional dish to share, giving everyone the opportunity to experience the delicious flavours and rich cultures that make up our community. Let's come together to celebrate the many cultures that make our parish such a welcoming and vibrant community. Everyone is warmly welcome – bring your family, friends, and neighbours!