"Mater Dei Matters"

Mission

REFUGEE WEEK 2020 

From Sunday, 14 June to Saturday, 20 June 2020 Australia celebrates Refugee Week. This valuable opportunity occurs once a year and devotes time in our national calendar to learn about the experiences of people from refugee backgrounds and to celebrate the amazing contributions made by refugees to the world. The theme of Refugee Week 2020 is celebrating the year of welcome.

It is a reminder of our call to the mission of the Church in our time; we are all responsible for creating a welcoming country. At Mater Dei, we stand in solidarity with Refugees and have prayerfully acknowledged this week of celebration in our Homegroups. 

 

Let us pray...

Merciful God,

whose Son became a refugee and had no place to call his own; 

look with mercy on those who today are fleeing from danger – homeless and hungry. 

Bless those who work to bring them relief;

inspire generosity and compassion in all our hearts;

and guide the nations of the world towards that day

when all will rejoice in your justice and peace;

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

 Amen.

 

VINNIES WINTER APPEAL 2020 

We are all aware of the visible ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has redefined the economic, health and social landscape of Australia. Once restrictions and government funding subsides, we face a future where many in our community will experience poverty and hardship, for the first time ever.

 

Experts predict as many as 3.4 million Australians will be out of work as a result of government shutdowns and social distancing restrictions. Many have become vulnerable overnight, and we cannot forget that millions were already vulnerable before this pandemic reached Australia. 

 

Each year, Vinnies provides shelter, food, clothing, financial support, friendship and care for tens of thousands of people in NSW. Since the coronavirus outbreak, volunteers and staff have worked tirelessly and creatively to keep the doors open at a time of increasing need. COVID-19 has put increased pressure on disadvantaged families in New South Wales who are struggling to pay the rent, maintain their health and buy warm clothes for their children. 

 

Now, more than ever, is the time for us to come together to support those experiencing hardship. The Vinnies COVID-19 Winter Appeal, needs our support to continue making a difference for people whose lives have been turned upside down.

 

Mater Dei will participate in the Vinnies Winter Appeal during Weeks 9 and 10, this term. Donations can be delivered to the front office in Homegroup time each day. 

 

What should I donate?

Warm clothing and blankets are urgently needed – even more so this winter. These items help to reduce energy bills and are essential for people experiencing homelessness. 

 

Vinnies have asked us to ensure blankets and warm clothes are clean and  in good condition by asking ‘would I give this to a friend?’

  • Blankets
  • Quilts
  • Jackets and Jumpers (children's and adults)
  • Gloves
  • Socks
  • Beanies
  • Sleeping bags
  • Toiletries; soap, wipes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo

Mrs Amelia Bright | Acting Leader of Mission