Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

The Covid-19 pandemic has shattered our world. And yet, in the midst of these Easter days, we remember that we believe in the shattered Christ who triumphed over the lockdown of the cross, death and the tomb. With our eyes fixed on the Risen Christ, we too will rise together.

For those of you who are feeling shattered at this time, those who are afraid, dejected or struggling in any way, please contact your local parish. We want to help as much as we can. If we can’t help we will try to connect you with those who can help.

Our churches might be closed and our pastoral workers and priests may have been locked down but that hasn’t stopped us. The outreach of the Church has and is continuing. As bishop I am proud of the efforts of so many amazing people, lay, religious and clergy, who have reached out to people in creative ways. I speak for many when I say to these amazing people - thank you!

I am conscious of those of you whose financial circumstances have changed. If they have, if you have to reduce or cease your support of your parish, please don’t be embarrassed. We understand and we want to help you and your family. And you may be able to support your parish in other ways.

I am also conscious that our parishes’ financial circumstances have changed. Thank you to those who are able and continue to support your parish.

I am, however, really heartened when people want to do more and have asked me, "How can I help?" This is what this appeal is about. It is about supporting our parishes. It is about offering those who are able, an avenue to provide extra support to your local parish.

In addition, you may like to consider supporting the Diocese, Catholic Family Support Services or your local St Vincent de Paul branch to support the uplifting of people in their faith, hope and love.

Our churches may have been closed and we may have been locked down. But this is also the origin of the Church. The disciples were locked in the upper room out of fear. From there the Church was born by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. From the beginning the Acts of the Apostles tells us, The whole group of believers was united, heart and soul; no one claimed for their own use anything that they had, as everything they owned was held in common to be used for those in need.

It is with this same spirit that I ask you to prayerfully consider whether you may be in a position where you are able and wish to contribute to the work of the Diocese or your local parish or aid agency as we strive to meet the pastoral needs of our people in this time of trial.

Thank you for consideration of this appeal.

Yours sincerely in Christ our Hope,

Collections of Previous Regular Giving - HERE