Message from the Head Catholic Life, Mission, and Religious Education 

Dear Colleagues,

As we journey through this significant Jubilee Year, it is essential to reflect on the profound impact it has on our community and our faith. The Jubilee Year serves as a time of grace and renewal, inviting us to deepen our commitment to God’s mission and to one another.

I  extend heartfelt congratulations to the Armidale Diocese for hosting a fantastic Jubilee Day at the Cathedral of Sts Mary and Joseph on the Feast of the Annunciation. The day included a holy hour, a procession with the blessed sacrament, a Mass, and a luncheon. It was amazing to see so many clergy, parishioners, and young people from our schools come together in celebration, showcasing unity and vibrancy of our Catholic community in the Armidale Diocese. The turnout on Jubilee Day was a testament to the strength of our community, with numerous schools and parishes represented. This gathering not only highlighted our shared faith but also reinforced our commitment to living out the values of the Gospel in our daily lives. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this day a success.

In his homily, Father Damien Locke asked the congregation to pray for Father Peter Murphy, our Bishop- Elect as he prepares for his Episcopal Ordination and Installation on the 8th of May. Father Damien also launched the pilgrimage of the miniature cathedral, replica cathedra, and Jubilee Relics across the diocese. This pilgrimage will include every parish, and schools will have the opportunity for their own mini pilgrimage to visit and receive catechesis around these travelling items of interest. Father Damien spoke of the cathedral as a powerful symbol of our diocese and the universality of the Church. He reminded us of the role of cathedra, the seat of the Bishop, the symbol of his teaching authority and pastoral care for the flock entrusted to him.

As we find ourselves in Week 3 of Lent, we are reminded of the importance of this sacred season as a time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal. Lent is a time for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, inviting us to deepen our relationship with God and to prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter. This year’s Jubilee theme, "Pilgrims of Hope," encourages us to embrace our faith journey with hope. As Pope Francis reminds us, “Hope is not optimism; it is not looking at the world with a rosy tint. Hope is the virtue of a heart that does not close itself in darkness, that does not dwell on the past, does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow”. Let us carry this message in our hearts as we support one another towards a hope-filled future during this Lenten season. 

Thank you for your dedication to fostering a spirit of hope and community within our schools. Together, let us continue to walk this journey of faith, inspired by the grace of the Jubilee Year.