Position Vacant: Coordinator of Parish Services

Faith and Life News | Catholic Diocese of Wollongong POSITION VACANT COORDINATOR OF PARISH SERVICES Diocese of Wollongong The Bishop of Wollongong, Most Reverend Peter Ingham, invites applications for the position of Coordinator of Parish Services for the Diocese of Wollongong. The successful applicant will assume duties as soon as possible. The Coordinator will be a member of the Parish Services Team in the Office of the Bishop which seeks to effectively serve the needs of the parishes. The Parish Services Team includes the Liturgy Coordinator, the Youth and Young Adult Coordinator and the Pastoral Planning Coordinator. The Coordinator of Parish Services will be responsible to the Director of Parish Services. The successful applicant will have: A strong commitment to the Catholic faith and active involvement in the life of the Church A spirit of prayerful discernment The ability to articulate clearly the place of the parish as an integral component of the Church's evangelising mission Proven leadership experience in collaborating with parish priests, parish staff and parish communities in shaping and implementing this vision An understanding of current issues in the Church in Australia in relation to parish life and ministry The skill to plan and implement new areas of parish activity in response to parish and Diocesan needs Strong communication and interpersonal skills A commitment to pursuing and promoting Stewardship as a way of living Christian discipleship in the individual, parish and Diocesan context A commitment to collaborative processes Relevant tertiary qualifications (preferably in the areas of theology and/or parish ministry). An information package can be obtained by emailing jane.edwards@dow.org.au or by contacting Jane Edwards on (02) 4253 0900. Applications must include the names and contact details for at least three referees, one of whom must be your Parish Priest, and should be addressed to The Director of Parish Services PO Box 1239 Wollongong NSW 2500. Applications close on Friday, 11 December 2009. The position of Coordinator of Parish Services is 'child related employment'. The preferred applicant for employment will be subject to employment screening.

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Love is the measure by which we will be judged." Dorothy Day

Youth Ministry News - November 2009

News for Young People in the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong Greetings to you all! It's hard to believe that Advent is almost upon us – where did the year go?  But never fear there are still things you can get involved in this year as well as a smorgasbord of events to put on your calendar for 2010. Plans are shaping up for a Diocesan Youth Mass to kick-start the year on February 6.  You are invited to join Bishop Peter as we celebrate Eucharist together 'in the vineyards' at Mittagong.  With the spectacular backdrop of rows of grapes almost ready for harvest, let's celebrate the incredible gift of being young and being Catholic. Keep reading… and make sure you mark your calendars!  I hope you have a wonderful Advent as you prepare with family and friends for the beautiful feast of Christmas. Feel free to contact me at anytime (4253 0809 or loretta.brinkman@woll.catholic.org.au), especially if you have news that you would like included in this newsletter. Peace, Loretta Born For This Lent 2010 is shaping up to be an incredible experience of immersion into the story of the Passion.  Throughout the Diocese we will be touring a production of Born For This to schools and parishes.  See the information below about auditions and think about getting involved.  To make this happen we need a cast of young talented people just like you!  Go on, be a part of it! Y God will keep the Y generation asking questions throughout the year in a series of gatherings for young adults to discuss and ponder the issues of today and the challenge of living Christian values in a world of competing values.  Together we will seek answers to the eternal question - Y God!  You are invited to join in this conversation each month at 3pm on Sunday afternoon.  Come along, hear what others have to say and debate, affirm or just listen and ponder. NB.  Even if you are not quite Gen Y, feel free to come along if you are aged between 16 and 35. Word and Deed | Gospel based resource for young people Word and Deed are produced for use by youth groups but can be used by anyone who wishes to reflect on the Sunday gospels.  They include Leader's Sheet that include, music and liturgical suggestions and fun activities as well as reproducible handouts for group participants. Available for download from www.dow.org.au/youth from November 23. The Lord is Near | 2009 Advent Resource Guide This year's program is for group or personal use. It is full colour and features reflections on the four Sundays of Advent, a personal examination of conscience leading into 2010, and ideas and prayers for the Advent and Christmas Seasons. If you would like to order a copy, contact Jane Edwards on 4253 0899 as soon as possible. Only $1 per copy. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY… NOVEMBER Saturday 28th Waiting in Joyful Hope Advent Retreat for Youth and Young Adults (16-35) 10am-3pm | St Mary's Star of the Sea 166 Fern Street, Gerringong Cost: $5 donation RSVP: Catriona | youth@stpaulsparish.org.au | 0422 201 054 DECEMBER 2009 Saturday 5th Born For This Auditions In Lent 2010 the Diocese of Wollongong will be staging a touring production of Born For This, a moving, modern theatrical interpretation of the Stations of the Cross.  We are seeking all young people (16-30) who would like to take part in bringing this story of faith to life in schools and parishes across the Diocese.  Auditions will be held on Saturday, December 5 at Mary Immaculate Parish Hall, Eagle Vale (10.30am-12.30pm) and the Cathedral Meeting Room, Wollongong (3.00pm-5.00pm).  Further details regarding auditions, rehearsals and performances are available at www.dow.org.au/youth. 3-6 iWitness 2009 iWitness is a Conference for young adults aged 16-30 who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and having a good time.  There will be opportunities to take part in the Sacraments, pray, discuss and ask questions.  Speakers include Cardinal Pell, Bishop Anthony Fisher OP, Hayden Ramsay, Jonathan Doyle, Sr Mary Madeline OP, Fr Anthony Percy & Anna Krohn. Details: www.lifetothefull.com.au or email iwitness2009@gmail.com JANUARY 10-17 Summer School of Evangelisation The Disciples of Jesus Summer School provides a chance to retreat for a week into the powerful experience of the Holy Spirit of God. This Spirit opens up the possibilities for conversion, deepening faith, peace, healing, joy, freedom and passion for the gospel of Jesus.  Lectures (and seminars) are given by those with formal theological training and/or extensive personal experience of faith and Christian Community. Lecture topics include Scripture, Understanding Catholic teaching, Vision for Evangelisation, Living as a Disciple, Prayer, Apologetics. You will also experience a vibrant and rich experience of communal and personal prayer including Charismatic praise and worship, the Divine Office, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Adoration and personal prayer. More information and registration at www.summerschool.org.au FEBRUARY Saturday 6th Mass in the Vineyards Diocesan Youth Mass 6pm | The Hermitage Old South Road, Mittagong BYO Blanket Tuesday 16th Born For This | Premiere 7.30pm | Mary Immaculate Church Emerald Drive, Eagle Vale Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 Sunday 21st Y God February topic - Love in the Age of Facebook: Relationships in the 21st Century 3pm | Venue TBA Friday 26th Born For This 7.30pm | St Paul's Church Tongarra Road, Albion Park Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 MARCH Friday 5th Born For This 7.30pm | St Thomas Aquinas Church Bendooley Street, Bowral Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 Friday 12th Born For This 7.30pm | St Paul's Church John Street, Camden Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 Friday 19th Born For This 7.30pm | St Michael's Parish Hall North Street, Nowra Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 Sunday 21st Y God (3rd Sunday of each month, Feb-Nov) March topic – Neighbourhood Watch: Asylum Seekers & Refugees 3pm | Venue TBA Saturday 27th Born For This | Final Performance 3.00pm | St Francis Xavier Cathedral Harbour Street, Wollongong Ticket information will be available at www.dow.org.au/youth early 2010 Saturday 27th World Youth Day 2010 Mass 6pm | St Francis Xavier Cathedral Later in 2010... August 15 | 1 Year to Madrid October 1-2 | Australian Catholic Youth Ministry Convention, Melbourne 3rd Sunday of each month | Y God

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Treat the poor with great respect, not only as equals, but as superiors, for they are suffering much more than we. Poor persons are the messengers of God to us, sent to prove our love, and to save us by our work for them." Rose Hawthorne Lathrop

God Said No

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away,
but for you to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations;
it isn't granted, it is learned.

I asked God to give me happiness..
God said, No.
I give you blessings;
Happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from
worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life,
so that you may enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said... Ahhhh, Yes!
finally you have the idea.

(Original source unknown)

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Don’t let yesterday use up too much of today." Will Rogers

Faithworx Sunday November 29th, 2009.

On Sunday evening, November 29th, Faithworx in conjunction with the Macarthur Catholic Social Justice Network extend an open invitation to everyone to a showing of the Film “Entertaining Angels”, in the parish hall. 6pm for 6.30pm. Entertaining Angels is about the ministry of Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker Movement. This day being the anniversary of the death of Dorothy Day in 1980. Please bring a plate. Tea and coffee supplied. For further information and RSVP contact Brother Michael on 4620 6047 or Robyn on 0438 207 394.

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"Jesus called his disciples together and said to them: ‘ I tell you that this poor widow put more in the offering box than all the others."Mark 12:43

Faith and Life enewsletter October 2009

Faith and Life News | Catholic Diocese of Wollongong Welcome to our October edition of Faith and Life News. I highly recommend the e-conference on Luke (4 November). We are not often treated to such high quality speakers for the cost of a gold coin donation! Advent is also around the corner. You may wish to consider our Diocesan Advent Program – The Lord is Near (also for the cost of $1). Details below. Peace Richard McMahon NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS 4 November Year of St Luke National E-Conference. Catholic Church Offices Wollongong 10.00am – 3.30pm Following the success of the St Paul eConference in June which saw an estimated 10,000 participants across Australia, another has been scheduled to celebrate the Year of St Luke. Hear from expert scripture scholars: Archbishop Mark Coleridge and Dr Elizabeth Dowling RSM. Morning and afternoon tea will be provided. BYO lunch or make use of nearby cafes and restaurants. To Register contact Kim Mannix by Monday 2 November 4253 0985 or email kim.mannix@woll.catholic.org.au. No registration fee. Gold coin donation appreciated. 150th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS St Paul's Camden. As part of parish celebrations internationally renowned concert pianist, Eric Genuis will be performing on Friday, 13 November at St Paul's Church, Camden, 7.00pm. For more information contact Trish 4655 8578, Neisha 4657 1965 or Kris 0425 337 440. Eric will also be performing at Eagle Vale on 6 November, Ingleburn on 7 November, Ruse on 8 November, Campbelltown on 9 November Varroville on 16 November and Rosemeadow on 18 November. Tickets: Adult $20.00, Concession $15.00 or Family $50.00. November Events 1 November WAY OF THE CROSS FOR ALL SOULS. "Maryfields", 168 Narellan Road, Campbelltown. The Franciscan Friars invite all to join them to pray for deceased parents, relatives and friends. They also invite various national groups to conduct the Way of the Cross in their own language during the month at a time suitable to them. Contact the Friars on 4626 2400. 2 November All Souls Night St Patrick's Parish, Port Kembla. 7.00pm 2 November – 8 November The Art of Praying Six day guided retreat Fr Chris Chaplin msc. St Mary's Towers, Douglas Park. 4630 9159 6 – 8 November MERCY JUSTICE CONFERENCE: "Embrace the Other and Welcome Difference…." Queanbeyan Conference Centre. Cost $300 (includes lunch, morning and afternoon teas on both days and dinner on Saturday evening). Contact Carmel Heagerty RSM on 0408 426 876, email Institute.Justice@mercy.org.au or visit www.mercy.org.au 6 – 8 November The Art of Praying Prayer weekend Fr Chris Chaplin msc. St Mary's Towers, Douglas Park. 4630 9159 7 November Good News Community meet at St John's Parish Hall, 35 Cordeaux Street, Campbelltown. 1.00pm – 5.00pm. Come along and have some fun and make new friends. Activities include ten pin bowling, golf driving range, karaoke, snooker, craft and boot scootin'. Contact Sr Jeanie 4654 8709 or email jheininger@materdei.org.au 7 November "Let us approach the Table of the Word of God" Day Retreat Fr Gerard Moran ocd. Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville. 9603 1433 9 November Spirituality in the Pub. Jamberoo Hotel 7.30pm. Contact Gabrielle Fogarty 4232 2735 or email gfogarty@exemail.com.au 10, 17 & 24 November Partnership Course (Marriage and relationships) Wollongong. 6.30pm – 9.30pm. Enquiries 4254 9316 11 November ST THOMAS MORE'S FORUM: "Food Security – One of the Greatest Social Justice Challenges in Today's World" presented by Hon Tony Burke, Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. 7.30pm – 9.30pm. St Thomas More Hall, 30 White Crescent, Campbell ACTfollowed by a light supper. Tel 6201 9814 or sttmforum@homemail.com.au 13 November Life Ascending Bookclub Study of books related to religion. Life Ascending is specifically for the age group (over 45). Insights are shared on books which the group have decided to read. Contact Simonette Bunder 4227 5637 13 – 15 November The 'Psychological' Dimension of the Spiritual Life Share St John of the Cross' profound insights into the human person and the soul. Mount Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville 9603 1433 13 – 21 November Directed Retreat A time spent in silence with my God. A time when God takes me from where I am in my persona relationship with him and leads me deeper into intimacy with him. Daily meeting with prayer companion, daily celebration of Eucharist and opportunity for the celebration of Reconciliation. St Mary's Towers, Douglas Park. 4630 9159 14 November Catechist Mass. Confraternity of Christian Doctrine St John Vianney's Church, Fairy Meadow. 2.00pm. Illawarra and Shoalhaven contact Leonie Green on 4285 0916. Macarthur and Southern Highlands contact Marie Dubay on 4640 8550 21 – 26 November Six day directed Retreat This retreat is an opportunity for those who would like a personally directed retreat with an experienced spiritual director. Each director will be limited to four people. Arrive evening 20 Nov and departed after breakfast 27 Nov. Cost $85.00 per night, full accommodation. Early bird $60.00 per night, full accommodation. Facilitators: Mary d'Apice rscj, Bettery McMahon rscj, Philomene Tiernan rscj, Susan Ross rscj and Janette Murray. Kerever Park Spirituality Centre, Burradoo. Contact 4861 2075 23 November – 1 December Directed Retreat A time spent in silence with my God. A time when God takes me from where I am in my persona relationship with him and leads me deeper into intimacy with him. Daily meeting with prayer companion, daily celebration of Eucharist and opportunity for the celebration of Reconciliation. St Mary's Towers, Douglas Park. 4630 9159 27 November Prayer Around the Cross. Uniting Church, Berry Albert Street Drawing inspiration from the prayers and music of Taize in France. 7.30pm. All welcome to come for a light meal before prayer at 6.00pm. Contact Gabrielle Fogarty on 4232 2735 or email gfogarty@exemail.com.au 27 – 29 November Praying the Our Father with St Teresa "Draw near, then, to this good Master with strong determination to learn what he teaches you, and His Majesty will so provide that you will turn out to be good disciples." We will continue our meditation upon and pray the Lord's Prayer with St Teresa. Fr Aloysius Rego OCD. Mount Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville 9603 1433 Other Information ADVENT PROGRAM. If you would like to order the 2009 Advent Resource Guide – The Lord is Near please contact Jane Edwards on 4253 0899 as soon as possible. This year's program is for group or personal use. It is full colour and features reflections on the four Sunday's of Advent, a personal examination of conscience leading into 2010, and ideas and prayers for the Advent and Christmas Seasons. Cost is $1 per copy. Parishioners should check with their parish priest before ordering to avoid doubling up. REQUESTS FOR NURSES TO WORK IN DEVELOPING COMMUNITIES Uganda: a trained nurse has been requested to work in a large regional hospital in South Eastern Uganda. Ethiopia:Palms have a request for a volunteer to train and supervise nursing students in a nursing college / hospital in a rural area about an hour from Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa. We also have requests for doctors and midwives in other regional areas of Ethiopia. Timor-Leste: Palms have a request for a Registered Nurse or Doctor to work in a regional area running a mobile health clinic, providing much needed health services to the rural population. The volunteer would also likely be involved in nutrition programs for school aged children. For information about any of the above or other positions, and further enquiry about the work that Palms Australia is engaged in please contactBenjamin Oh on 9518 9551 or email ben@palms.org.au or visit www.palms.org.au Christian Meditation. A new group is starting from 20 October, 5.15pm Tuesdays in the Blessed Scalabrini Room, behind Sacred Heart Church, Stewart Street, Wollongong. For further information please contact Margaret on 4243 1377 or Cathy on 0448 712915. Regular group 7pm, Mondays, St Therese Church, West Wollongong. Contact Monica on 42 61 5600 or Cathy 0448 712915. POSITION VACANT. Manager, The House of Welcome is a project of the NSW Ecumenical Council assisting refugees and asylum seekers with the provision of transitional accompaniment and support services (including houses) as they settle into the Australian community. To obtain an information package, including position criteria or to apply (asap) email thow@tpg.com.au or telephone 9727 9290. Also see www.thow.com.au

Social Justice Thought For The Week

"To Love Another Person Is To See The Face Of God." (from the finale of Les Miserables)