Our Faith - Religion - Prayer 

St Patrick's Church Walcha 

For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Monsignor Ted Wilkes 67784070.

Monsignor Ted Wilkes would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.

Term 4 Mass Dates

Friday 15th November: Mass at 11.30am

Friday 13th December: End of Year and Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11.30am

Reflection

This Sunday, the global community will come together to observe the World Day for the Poor. Initiated by Pope Francis in 2017, this day has become an annual opportunity for individuals, communities, and the Church to reflect on the needs of the poor, address the systems that keep people in poverty, and take tangible steps toward fostering a world where all can live with dignity and security.

The theme for this year’s observance, “Do not turn away from your own flesh” (Isaiah 58:7), challenges us to see the poor not as strangers, but as our own family members — as brothers and sisters whose struggles are intertwined with our own well-being. This theme calls us to reflect on the question: What does it mean to truly see those who are marginalised? In a world often defined by division, competition, and individualism, World Day for the Poor invites us to be united in compassion and solidarity.

Pope Francis, in his messages leading up to this day, has often spoken of the “scandal” of poverty in a world capable of producing so much wealth. He calls us to action, urging Christians and people of goodwill to “make a real effort to eliminate the injustices that oppress the poor.” This year’s observance is a reminder to see Christ in every face and to act as instruments of His mercy.

The World Day for the Poor is more than a single day of awareness; it is a vision for a just world where everyone can thrive. As we observe this day in 2024, may we be inspired to carry its message throughout the year, finding ways to lift one another up, bridge divides, and build communities that embody Christ’s love.

In a world of vast resources, poverty remains a painful contradiction — but it is one we have the power to address. Through small acts of compassion, advocacy for systemic change, and faith in God’s boundless mercy, we can create a future where no one is left behind.

Prayer 

Loving God,

On this World Day for the Poor, 

we come before You,

Remembering our brothers and sisters who struggle each day.

Open our hearts to see them,

Not as strangers, 

but as our own family,

Each one carrying Your image, 

each one deserving of dignity and love.

We pray for courage to challenge systems that keep people in poverty,

For wisdom to use our resources generously, 

And for grace to live in solidarity with the poor,

Loving our neighbours as You have loved us.

Lord, bless the poor with peace, comfort, and hope,

And may our lives reflect Your compassion and love,

Until Your kingdom of justice and mercy reigns on earth.

Amen.

Mass -Tomorrow, Friday 15th November at 11.30am

Tomorrow, all of the staff and students will be celebrating Mass at St Patrick's Catholic Church at 11.30 am. Everyone is welcome to join us. 

Catherine McAuley

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