French's Forest Catholic Parish eNews

This week’s Gospel invites us to look beyond our words and consider whether our lives truly reflect our faith. Jesus reminds us that what matters is not simply what we say, but whether we are willing to listen, change and do God’s will. The Gospel reminds us that our actions speak louder than our words. The first son initially says “no” to his father, but later changes his mind and goes to work in the vineyard. The second says “yes”, but does not follow through. Jesus reminds us that God does not ask us to be perfect. What matters is our willingness to listen, change and put our faith into action. Even when we have made mistakes or turned away, it is never too late to change direction and return to God. The Gospel challenges us to ask: Do our actions reflect the faith we profess? May we have the courage to recognise where we need to change and the grace to say “yes” to God—not only with our words, but through the way we live each day. This Gospel therefore asks each of us a simple but ...

This weekend we welcome back our pilgrims who have had a wonderful time in Croatia.  We are grateful for their safe return and look forward to hearing about their experience.  We wish Fr Satheesh a wonderful couple of weeks holiday and look forward to his return on October 9th.  

What a year it’s been! We have had some wonderful new catechists join our ministry (there will be more about them in upcoming bulletins), and we said farewell to two of our valued stalwarts, both of whom completed 25 years as catechists- Pauline Van den Berg and Aileen Boyle. When asked to reflect on their experiences, Aileen shared, “My most touching experience was a reminder of how the families have changed. While giving out a Christmas religious tree decoration and message, a dear little girl came and asked for 2, as she has trees at mummy’s house as well as Daddy’s. I have gone from blackboards and chalk to whiteboards and USBs.” A true reflection of an ever-changing tapestry in the lives of the children and families we serve!

Giving Back to Those Who Have Given So Much We are invited to reflect with gratitude on the meaningful impact made by our priests, on our lives, our faith, and our families. Many of us have been blessed by priests who accompany with compassion, serve with faithfulness, and share with us the joys of life's milestones. This weekend, Sept 26/27 we have the opportunity to give thanks for their ministry by giving back to those who have given so much. Across the Diocese of Broken Bay, we are launching the St Joseph’s Appeal, supporting our retired priests who have spent their lives in faithful service to Christ and His Church. Your valued gift will help to provide for their accommodation, meals, transport and medical care, enabling them to live with dignity and comfort in retirement. Envelopes are available for you to simply scan the QR code or complete the details and return during the collection at Mass. All donations are tax deductible. Please pray for our retired priests and give ge...

BBQ 6:30 to 7PM ($5) 10th October Concert:7pm-8:30pm

MIGRANT AND REFUGEE SUNDAY 27th Sept Pope Leo XIV has appealed to “everyone’s sense of responsibility” to protect migrant and refugee minors, stressing that children and teenagers are the most vulnerable and often endure “unspeakable suffering”. https://cathnews.com/2026/09/24/pope-calls-for-protection-and-support-of-young-migrants/? SAVE THE DATE Sat 24th November: Annual David's Place Community of Inner Sydney City visit to Frenchs Forest Parish at St Anthony in the Fields with mass at 4.30pm.

Please join us for Taize ‘Prayer Around the Cross’ next Friday, 2nd October 7.00pm at St Martin’s Church.  All are welcome.   

From 1-7 October, Aid to the Church in Need invites you to join with Pope Leo XIV and Catholics worldwide for the One Million Children Praying the Rosary prayer campaign, for peace and unity in the world. Families, parishioners, prayer groups, and schools are all encouraged to register to take part!  For free Rosary resources and to register, scan QR or visit: www.acninternational.org/millionchildrenpraying “ When one million children pray the Rosary, the world will change.” - Saint Padre Pio