Our Faith - Religion - Prayer 

St Patrick's Church Walcha 

For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Fr Anthony Koppman 67772129.

Fr Anthony would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.

Catherine McAuley - Foundress of St Patrick's Walcha

The principles of Catherine McAuley continue to guide the work of the Sisters of Mercy and the schools they founded, including St Patrick's Walcha. The school's mission is deeply rooted in her core values, especially those of compassion, hospitality, and service.

• Compassion and Justice: Catherine McAuley had a profound sense of compassion for those who were marginalized or suffering. At St Patrick's Walcha, this is reflected in the school's focus on social justice initiatives and its commitment to caring for all students, regardless of their background. The school encourages empathy and understanding, teaching students to be mindful of others' needs.
• Hospitality and Inclusion: The Baggot Street house was a symbol of hospitality, a welcoming place for all. In the same way, St Patrick's Walcha strives to be an inclusive and welcoming community. This principle is seen in the school's positive and supportive environment, where every student is encouraged to feel a sense of belonging and is treated with dignity and respect.
• Service and Education: Catherine believed that providing a quality education was one of the most powerful ways to help people break the cycle of poverty. The Sisters of Mercy founded schools to offer a comprehensive education that developed the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, and socially. St Patrick's Walcha continues this tradition by providing a holistic education that not only focuses on academic excellence but also on the spiritual development and personal growth of each student.

Prayer to Catherine McAuley

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the life of Catherine McAuley. She was a woman of deep faith and compassion, who dedicated her life to serving the poor, the sick, and the uneducated. We pray that you bless all those who continue her work, especially the students, staff, and families of St Patrick's Walcha.

May we, like Catherine, be guided by the principles of mercy and hospitality. Grant us the strength to seek justice, to welcome all with open hearts, and to use our gifts in the service of others.

Inspire us to live with the same courage and generosity that she showed in founding the Sisters of Mercy. May her legacy continue to be a source of light and hope in our community. Amen.

Sacrament Dates for 2025

2025 First Reconciliation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 2 and 3 for Friday 24th October 2025.

2025 Confirmation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 5 and 6 for Sunday 21st September 2025.

Catherine McAuley

Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.