Parish News
Did you know that the Website title, ‘St Bernard’s Parish Belmont’, at the top of the screen is our Home page/main menu button!
RCIA
On Ash Wednesday, our RCIA candidates signed a scroll, which will be submitted to the Archbishop, enabling their names to be inscribed in the Book of the Elect. The start of Lent signifies the next stage in their journey and as a symbol they were presented with a wooden cross.
This Sunday’s Rite of Election is a decisive moment for those on the journey to joining the Catholic Church. The catechumens and candidates, known as the ‘elect’, come forward with their sponsors and make public their intention to receive the sacraments of initiation at Easter.
All are welcome to this ‘good news’ moment in the life of our local church! We pray for our candidates, Lisa, Alexandra and Shaun.
This Lent…….
Christians know that to believe in Jesus means a radical commitment. Our hearts must love what he loves and break for what breaks His. The poor, our least brothers, are suffering from a climate crisis that they did little to create and have few resources to combat, Yet they are bearing the brunt of the affects which are devastating and unrecoverable in many circumstances.
Greener Lent encourages participants to do the following:
Intensify prayers, especially for the poor whose livelihoods are being destroyed by the climate crisis and that we may follow Christ more closely.
Sacrificially reduce the amount of meat eaten by choosing a fasting level which expands the established days of abstinence for Catholics during Lent, and provides a Biblically based penance for all Christians. Reducing or eliminating meat significantly impacts the participants carbon footprint during Lent.
Give alms to the poor who have suffered the worst effects of the climate crisis.
Lent is not easy, but it is incredibly meaningful. We believe that when works of mercy are done as a community, our loving Saviour will grant us the conversion of heart we desire. Some simple ways of Caring for Creation are suggested in the Lenten Calendar for you to download or pick up a copy in the Church foyer.
Congratulations!
The Pastoral Health Care Network are celebrating their 20th Anniversary this Friday 20th February at 12 followed by a light lunch. Maureen Zampatti and a team of amazing volunteers make heartfelt keepsakes to offer people in need of comfort and support. If you have spare time perhaps you could lend them a hand!
Bishops Social justice Statement 2026
Australia’s Catholic bishops have urged courage and tenderness in addressing the nation’s cost-of-living crisis. This year, the bishops have chosen to release two statements – one in February and another in August ahead of Social Justice Sunday (August 30).
The February statement is entitled The Cost of our Living: Economic and Social Justice for the Common Good.
Read more on our Church News page.
Message of Pope Leo XIV for Lent 2026
Listening and Fasting: Lent as a Time of Conversion
In his message, the Holy Father explains that “Lent is a time in which the Church, guided by a sense of maternal care, invites us to place the mystery of God back in the centre of our lives.”
“Our parishes, families, ecclesial groups and religious communities are called to undertake a shared journey during Lent, in which listening to the word of God, as well as to the cry of the poor and of the earth, becomes part of our community life,” the Holy Father emphasizes.
“Let us strive to make our communities places where the cry of those who suffer finds welcome, and listening opens paths towards liberation, making us ready and eager to contribute to building a civilization of love,” he wrote.
https://www.vatican.va/.../20260205-messaggio-quaresima.html
The Journey Home
Our Lenten program begins this week in St Bernard’s church
for those attending the group sessions.
Lenten Reflection Invitation
The Journey Home - Lent is not merely a period of sacrifice or reflection; it is a pilgrimage - a journey towards paradise, our eternal home.
We are never alone on this journey. As a synodal people, we walk side by side, listening, discerning and supporting one another in faith. The Journey Home is marked not only by personal prayer and penance, but by our shared commitment to building a community where every person is valued and included.
Our 2026 Lenten program at St. Bernard’s has been developed for both individual prayer and small groups. Lenten small groups are an opportunity to gather together to share life, faith and to pray with one another.
You are invited to participate in this program in one of the following ways.
A weekly reflection meeting in the church, led by a member of our team, using the Lenten resource, The Journey Home.
A daily self-directed reflection, using the Lenten resource, The Journey Home.
If this invitation appeals to you, could you please use the signup sheets after Masses on the weekends to follow or contact the Parish Office on 5243 2739 during office hours or email belmont@cam.org.au.
· Five Morning Sessions commence on Friday 20/2 at 11.00 am
· Five Evening Sessions commence on Tuesday 24/2 at 7 pm in the church
· $5 to be paid for the book, can be paid via cash/EFTPOS
after mass on 31/1 or at the office. Books are in stock.
· You can download the program as an eBook
https://archdiocesanministries.org.au/lent-resource
Ash Wednesday falls on February 18 this year – so please signup or contact the parish office before Sunday February 15th 2026.
Once we have gathered this information, we will inform you of details of how the program will proceed.
Australia Day Reflection
Mannya Update 2025
The update is available on our Mannya page
under the About Us tab at the top of the screen.
Year of St Francis
By decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary issued on January 10, 2026, at the request of Pope Leo XIV, the Church has solemnly proclaimed a special Year of Saint Francis of Assisi, running from January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027.
This Jubilee Year commemorates the 800th anniversary of the passage into Heaven of Saint Francis of Assisi († Oct 3 1226), the Seraphic Patriarch and one of the most beloved saints in Christian history.
New Bishop of Ballarat
CONGRATULATIONS to Fr Mark William Freeman whose appointment as the 9th Bishop of Ballarat was announced by Pope Leo XIV in Rome on Wednesday night 7/1/2026.
Fr Freeman, 66, currently serving as Parish Priest in Bellerive-Lindisfarne (Catholic Archdiocese of Hobart) will succeed Bishop Paul Bird CSsR.
Read more on our Church News page
Popes Prayer Intention for January 2026
For prayer with the Word of God.
Let us pray that praying with the Word of God be nourishment for our lives and a source of hope in our communities, helping us to build a more fraternal and missionary Church.
Jubilee Year of Hope, comes to an end!
The Holy Door of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran—the Cathedral of the Pope—was solemnly closed, marking the end of this stage of the Jubilee of Hope. As the door is sealed, the faithful are reminded that Christ Himself remains the true gate to mercy and salvation. On the Feast of the Holy Family, His Eminence Cardinal James Harvey closed the third Holy Door of the Jubilee Year at the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls. This ends the Jubilee Year in the particular Churches and leaves the last remaining Holy Door open at St. Peter’s Basilica, which Pope Leo will close on January 6th. This door will remain closed until 2033, when the Church will celebrate 2,000 years of the Resurrection of Christ. Two Holy Doors remain open in Rome: at St. Paul’s Outside the Walls and at St. Peter’s Basilica. Read more on our Church News page.
Did you enjoy our Christmas Photo frame?
There’s still time to take your photo with family and friends at St Bernard’s. Thank you to Francis and the team who brought the extra cheer this Christmas.
Prayers for the Bondi community.
Loving God, we remember and hold in our hearts all who have been, and are, in any way involved in the tragedy at Bondi.
We entrust those who have died to your love and mercy, and pray for their families and friends, and for all who have been injured. May those who struggle to make sense of this event find support, comfort and understanding in the months ahead.
We pray for the police and paramedics who gave assistance at the scene as well as members of the community who came to the aid of the injured. May they be given resilience to continue to serve their communities.
We pray for our country that people of all faiths will recommit themselves to being peacemakers in their families, amongst their friends and in our wider society.
Let us be people of light bringing Peace and hope to others. May their memories be a blessing.
REFLECTIONS OF CHRISTMAS
The birth of Jesus holds myriad promises and has many meanings.
Can you describe a time when you discovered for yourself the message of Christmas?
These are some of the responses from our Parishioners!
“I discovered the deeper message of Christmas when I noticed how my family gathered, sharing foods, laughter, gifts and prayers. It felt like the love we celebrated was the same love Jesus brought into the world. Christmas became a reminder of meaningful connection, of belonging. Christmas is the most joyful time of the year.”
“I was at one of our wonderful St. Bernard’s outdoor masses with a crowd of grandparents, parents and children so excited and the Clairvaux students were acting out the amazing story of Jesus’ birth. The message was to cherish children and family and community with joy, peace and hope.”
“As a young child, the rich atmosphere of baby Jesus born in a stable carried with it a mystic enchantment, together with the excitement of Santa Claus and presents, family celebrations and traditions which emphasised the season’s importance. The excitement remains with me in living the presence of Christ here today.”
“Seeing homeless people and children in need during festive seasons moves me deeply. I long to help, though I sometimes question if donations truly reach them. For me, Christmas means love in action – small acts of kindness and presence that brings hope and joy.”
Christmas at St Bernard’s
Youth lead decorations can be seen in the foyer of our church! They have been really well received with many parishioners delighting in the home made crafts! Thank you Francis!
Youth Group Christmas Craft!
Come and join the fun!
Help us make some Christmas decorations.
Saturday 6th Dec, 11:30 - 12:30
St Bernard’s Church
Kids and Youth of all ages Welcome
RCIA
Rite of Acceptance - It is with much joy that we welcome our 2025-2026 RCIA participants at Mass on Saturday 6th December. This sacred moment marks a significant time for Alex, Lisa and Shaun in their journey of faith. As a faith filled community, we congratulate them and offer our prayerful support. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and inspire them as they prepare to enter more deeply into the life of the Church.
🌟 Advent at St Bernard’s: A Sacred Invitation
Advent at St Bernard’s is not just a countdown to Christmas.
It’s a summons to be awake to our circumstances,
ready to change our ways,
open to seeing with new eyes,
and willing to welcome the divine into our midst.
To help us journey together, we invite you to a special series of Growing Faith prayer sessions—gentle, reflective gatherings to deepen our spiritual preparation.
🕊️ Dates: Mondays 1st, 8th, and 15th December
🕰️ Times: Choose either 10am or 7pm
📍 Location: St Bernard’s Church
Come as you are. Let’s grow in faith, hope, and readiness—together.
The Meaning of the Four Sundays of Advent
Advent is a season of preparation—a time when Christians around the world pause, slow down, and ready their hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ at Christmas. It is not just a countdown to December 25, but a spiritual journey that invites reflection, prayer, patience, and expectation. The four candles traditionally lit during Advent symbolize the unfolding story of salvation and the posture of the human heart awaiting the Savior.
The first candle represents Hope. Hope is not wishful thinking—it is confidence in God’s promises. As the Old Testament waited for the Messiah, Christians today place trust in God’s faithfulness, believing He is present, active, and leading all things toward good.
The second candle stands for Peace. The peace of Christ is deeper than the absence of conflict; it is the calm of knowing God is in control. During a noisy and uncertain world, this Sunday invites reflection on the peace Jesus brings—peace for the heart, peace for families, and peace for the world.
The third candle is Joy, often marked by a rose-colored candle. Joy is more than happiness; it is rooted in God’s grace. This Sunday reminds believers that even before Christmas arrives, they can rejoice because salvation is near.
Finally, the fourth candle represents Love. The story of Christmas is ultimately the story of love—God becoming human to save humanity. This Sunday prepares hearts to welcome not just a holiday, but a person: Jesus Christ.
As the candles grow in light week after week, so does the anticipation. Advent teaches patience, builds faith, and reminds us of the greatest truth ever told: that God came near and continues to walk with His people. In a world longing for meaning, Advent quietly whispers a timeless message—Christ is coming, and His light is stronger than any darkness.
Volunteer Luncheon
2025 - Volunteers Luncheon: In recognition of International Volunteer Day, we warmly invite all our wonderful volunteers to join us for the St Bernard’s Volunteer Luncheon on Sunday, December 7th at 12.00pm. This gathering is our way of saying thank you for the time, care, and commitment you share so generously with our parish community.
Please RSVP for catering purposes by emailing belmont@cam.org.au or by phoning the Parish Office on 5243 2739.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Remembrance Mass
Remembrance Mass this year was celebrated on our society’s recognised Remembrance Day on the 11th November. The Mass was a beautiful reflective commemoration of all those we love and who have died. We had a moment of silence in which we were able to pray for our family members we wished to remember before lighting a candle as a sign of hope that they stand in the presence of God.
This year we acknowledged those families who remember loved ones who died in the service of our country with a simple poppy display.
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord
and let Perpetual light shine upon them.
REMEMBRANCE DAY – November 11
Remembrance Day is held on the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the war with Germany in WWI. The Armistice agreement was signed between Germany and the Allied Forces in Paris on Monday, 11 November 1918 at 0500 hours. The ceasefire went into effect at 1100 hours the same morning -at 11am on 11 November 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. Known as Armistice Day.
After the Second World War, the Australian Government agreed to the United Kingdom's proposal that Armistice Day be renamed Remembrance Day to commemorate those who were killed in both World Wars.
Today the loss of Australian lives from all wars and conflicts is commemorated on Remembrance Day, and on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, one minute's silence is observed and dedicated to those soldiers who died fighting to protect the nation.
November is the month of Remembrance.
A sacred memorial area will be established on the 1st November in our Marian prayer space. You are invited to bring along a photo (up to 15x22cm) or memento of your loved one who has died, whom you would like to remember and have the Parish pray for during the month of November.
A special Mass of Remembrance will be celebrated on Tuesday 11th November at 7:00 pm. You are all invited to attend and participate in a candle lighting ceremony in remembrance of those who have died.
St Bernard’s Art Show – A Celebration of Creativity and Community
Last weekend, St Bernard’s hosted its very first Parish Art Show, transforming The Big Space into a vibrant gallery filled with colour, creativity, and community spirit. The exhibition showcased an inspiring variety of works from parishioners and local artists— each piece expressing something of Gratitude, Renewal and Community.
The event featured a moving address from Dr Lariane Fonseca, who shared insights into her life and journey as an artist, and reflected on art as our medicine—a powerful reminder of how creativity can heal, connect, and uplift us.
We’re delighted to share that the Art Show was a great success, welcoming over 250 attendees and receiving wonderful feedback on both the presentation and the quality of the artworks displayed. Guests were invited to ‘vote’ for their favourite piece, and we extend our congratulations to Maria Lee, who received the most votes for her beautiful cross stitch of Christ Jesus—meticulously stitched by hand. How fitting that an image of our Lord should take the show prize! Congratulations, Maria! Maria’s beautiful work will be displayed in the church this coming weekend for parishioners to enjoy.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this special show: to all who volunteered their time, those who submitted their artworks, and everyone who came along to enjoy the exhibition. With a special thanks to the planning group including; Noreen Nicholson, Pauline Gilmore, Muriel Powell, Louise Madden, Maureen Zampatti, Frances O’Rielly and Francis Kurian - and to all Pillar members who so generously shared their time, talents, and efforts. Your creativity, teamwork, and dedication helped make this event a true celebration of faith and community.
Please enjoy some photographs taken from the show in the collage below, including Maria Lee’s prizewinning cross stitch. more phot os can be found on our Art Show page.
Event: St. Bernard's 'Jubilee Year of Hope' Art Show
Where: 'The Big Space', St. Bernard's Parish, 74 Fryers Road, Belmont
When: Saturday 25 & Sunday 26, 2025
Saturday 25/10
3.30 pm - 5.45 pm
7.00 pm - 8.30 pm Art Show Opening
Sunday 26/10
10 am - 3.30 pm
Everyone is welcome, admission is free
More deatails on our Art Show page
Have Your Say!
The Parish Leadership Team are making plans for the next two years, 2026-2027, and we would like your input. If you would like to contribute your ideas, please click the button to complete the questionnaire.
APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION
DILEXI TE
OF THE HOLY FATHER LEO XIV
TO ALL CHRISTIANS ON LOVE FOR THE POOR
Read more on our ‘Sharing Faith’ page.
Volunteer needed for bulletin creation
Are you interested in reading articles of interest and collating information for our Parish Bulletin?
Would you like to work as a team or individually. This would be a great way to support our Parish.
Please contact the Parish Office or Fr Tho to find out more!
October, a month dedicated to praying the Rosary.
October 7 is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary and the month of October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary. The Rosary is a powerful prayer that draws the individual closer to God by inviting them to meditate on the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through its mysteries, we walk alongside Christ and Mary, reflecting on their joys, sorrows, and triumphs.
To celebrate, we would like to invite you to come along as we pray the Rosary together, every Wednesday evening in October at 7pm (beginning on the 1st ).
You are also invited to stay for a cuppa and a chat afterwards.
In Every Season – Common Grace
Season of Creation 2025 - Common Grace
Wisdom is woven through all Creation. As sea levels rise, weather extremes intensify, and beloved places disappear, Creation is crying out. Yet too often, we fail to hear. We fail to act. Right now, our world isn’t just facing an environmental crisis — it’s facing a listening crisis.
In every season we’re all called to care for, indeed to love, God’s Creation. Watch here: https://youtu.be/RR8_bvsNZik
This year's Season of Creation coincides with the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis' groundbreaking encyclical, Laudato Si’. We also find ourselves celebrating the Jubilee as “Pilgrims of Hope” which, as Pope Leo XIV reminds us, is most timely.
Care for creation, he says, is a matter of justice – social, economic and human. 'For believers it is also a duty born of faith, since the universe reflects the face of Jesus Christ, in whom all things were created and redeemed. In a world where the most vulnerable of our brothers and sisters are the first to suffer the devastating effects of climate change, deforestation and pollution, care for creation becomes an expression of our faith and humanity.'
Thanks to Clairvaux Year 3 students who created the Season of Creation Banners!
SEASON OF CREATION
The Feast of Creation of September 1, also known as Creation Day or World Day of Prayer for Creation, is the big celebration that inspires and nourishes the larger Season of Creation that flows from it. Inspired by a rich tradition of the Orthodox Church, it was later embraced by the World Council of Churches in 2008 and the Catholic Church in 2015.
2025 Theme: Peace with Creation
This year, the theme is Peace with Creation, rooted in Isaiah 32:14-18:
Isaiah paints a stark image of a world wounded by human injustice, a creation crying out for peace. This vision resonates deeply with us: our planet is suffering, and yet, we believe in the promise of renewal and restoration.
Our call is to be active agents of change—praying, acting, and transforming our way of living in communion with creation and the Creator.
As Pope Francis reminded us during the Jubilee of Volunteering: “In the deserts of poverty and loneliness, all those small gestures are helping to make a new humanity blossom in the garden that is God’s dream, always and everywhere, for all of us.” This Season of Creation, let us walk together in metanoia (repentance), to build peace, to restore our relationships, and to help God’s creation blossom.
2025 SEASON of CREATION SYMBOL
The 2025 Symbol inspired by Isaiah 32:14-18 and titled “Garden of Peace,” depicts a white dove flying over a tree. The left side of the tree is barren, with roots digging into dry soil, surrounded by an arid, desolate landscape. In contrast, the right side of the tree is lush and green, standing amidst a flourishing landscape. The dove, carrying an olive branch in its beak, flies toward the right—symbolizing peace as a transition from a war-torn, overexploited land to one that is fertile, thriving, and hospitable.
Let us remember that humanity was originally called to tend a garden. Through this year’s Season of Creation, we will reflect on the connection between caring for creation and fostering peace.
To participate in the Season of Creation each day download the calendar.
Would you like to register your contact details with the Parish? Even if you’re not new but you haven’t made contact or you need to update your details, please complete a CONNECT CARD here or one available in the foyer of the Church.
Social Justice Sunday 30/31st August 2025
This weekend we acknowledge Social Justice Sunday. Australia’s Bishops invite us to seriously consider our Christian responsibility to those who are in homelessness and mental ill-health. Like Jesus, we are to “offer service…to our sisters and brothers created in the image of God.”
Yet it is more than practical assistance or knowing about situations and causes of poverty. We are called to get to know the names of people and to hear their stories. God is love, and love notices, listens and responds to each person uniquely.
As pilgrims of hope in this Year of Jubilee, we walk as equals with each other, and work towards a society of dignity and inclusion for all. Let us build a culture of encounter with those living in homelessness and mental ill-health.
Let us find and be ‘Signs of Hope on the Edge.’
Parishioners of St Bernard are being asked to support a collection of goods for OUTPOST in support of those in need.
Outpost gratefully accepts donations which provide comfort and dignity to those in need.
• Toiletries: Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash or Soap, Deodorant, Aftershave/Perfume, Razors, Shaving
Cream, Mosquito Repellent, Sunscreen, and Toiletry Bags.
• Men’s and Women’s Clothing: Jackets, Jumpers, Pants, Jeans, Beanies, Scarves, Gloves, NEW Underwear
and Socks.
• Essential Items: Sleeping bags, swags (doonas and pillows NOT accepted), Heat Packs, Sanitary Items,
Phone Chargers, Reusable Water Bottles, Backpacks, Duffle Bags, and Supermarket Bags
• Entertainment: DVD’s, Books and Puzzles.
• Food: Non-perishables, sweets, chips, noodles, biscuits, etc.
Guest Speaker Maggie O’Neill - The Outpost
Maggie O’Neill is a 24-year-old St Bernard’s Parishioner who works in the mental health sector. She is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for people to be heard and understood.
Maggie volunteers at The Outpost, a not-for-profit organisation, who supports our vulnerable community in Geelong, providing meals and services as well as building friendships through compassion and connection. At The Outpost, Maggie serves as a board member, is a facilitator of the Lived Experience Group, helping ensure that real voices guide the way we support others. She is also part of the cooking team and serves meals every Sunday night.Recently Maggie was honoured to receive the Youth Volunteer of the Year Award. This was presented by Volunteering Geelong and the Highton Rotary Club.
Maggie will be presenting at all Masses on the weekend of 23rd/24th August and will share with us her experiences as a volunteer at the Outpost. We will learn first-hand what life is like for the homeless and how we can support them.
As we listen and learn about this important issue, we are asked to keep in mind next week’s acknowledgment of Social Justice Sunday. This year’s Statement, on serving Homeless people with mental ill health, calls us to follow the example of Jesus, who always noticed, listened to, and cared for those on the edge of society.
Every Christian is being called to step into the lives of those who are suffering, to befriend them, advocate for them, and to journey alongside them. We encourage parishioners to support The Outpost by donating various items that will then be distributed to those in need. Flyers promoting this two-week drive can be found in the Church foyer, the website and our social media pages.
To learn more about the Outpost you can visit their website via: https://www.outpostgeelong.org.au/
Happy Feast Day!
St Bernard’s Day - 20th August
St Bernard of Clairvaux was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1174, just 21 years after his death. He was recognized for his holiness, his contributions to the Cistercian order, and his influential writings. His teachings on love for God and devotion to the Virgin Mary had a profound impact on the faithful.
He was also declared a Doctor of the Church in 1830, a title given to individuals whose writings have significantly contributed to Catholic theology.
Overall, St Bernard of Clairvaux's life and teachings continue to inspire and guide many Catholics around the world.
PILGRIMS OF HOPE - Holy Trinity Pilgrimage
On Saturday 26th Aug, a group of St Bernard’s parishioners travelled to Queenscliff where we celebrated Mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Fr Tho Tran and Fr Linh Pham. We appreciated the opportunity to come together, as we continue our faith journey as ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, praying for the world and for our local communities, sharing the love of God with everyone we meet.
It was a wonderful day with some of our parishioners travelling by bus, capably driven by Brian whom we gratefully thank! Thanks also go to Marg for the lovely music and to the men who led the singing. We thank Sr Nola and the parishioners of Holy Trinity for their warm welcome and hospitality, providing us with a lovely lunch. Finally we thank Fr Tho and Fr Linh for concelebrating! Fr Linh spoke of the meaning of the pilgrimage and our role in bringing hope to others. It was another great community event.
Jubilee of Hope: An Art Show Celebrating Renewal and Community
At St. Bernard’s Church, Belmont
Theme: The Year of Jubilee - A time of liberation, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
Exhibition Opening: A celebratory evening with light refreshments, music and an opportunity to engage with the community.
Purpose of the Exhibition:
To provide a platform for parishioners to share their creative talents.
To foster a sense of community and connection through art.
To encourage reflection on the themes of the Year of Jubilee.
To beautify the parish space and inspire those who visit.
Exhibition Description: Details along with Entry Forms are available on our new Blog ‘ Art Show’ on our home page!
You can also download the Brochure here!
St. Bernard’s Art Show happening in October.
A celebration of Renewal and Community in this special Jubilee Year of Hope!
We warmly invite parishioners of all ages and skill levels to express the rich themes of the Jubilee—
Gratitude, Renewal, and Community—through art.
Accepted Art Forms - visual art, mixed media, audio, textiles, sculpture, woodwork.
Call for Volunteers!
We’re seeking those with art experience, Canva design, promotion and communication skills to help us plan and bring St. Bernard’s Art Show to life.
We would love to hear from you asap - email: stbernardleadership@gmail.com
Or ring the parish office on 5243 2739 and leave your contact details and we will be in touch.
St John Vianney Novena Day 1, Sunday July 27 – Day 9, Monday August 4th.
St John Vianney Novena
August 4th is the Feast Day of St. John Vianney, who is the
patron saint of parish priests.
This year, the catholic churches in Geelong are aiming to
gather as many people as possible, to pray the novena to
St. John Vianney for all our parish and assistant priests in
Geelong, including Fr. Tho.
A novena is 9 days of prayer, which will begin on Sunday,
July 27th and finish on Monday, August 4th. You can pray the novena on your own, with your
family and friends, or with the parish after weekday Masses.
St John Vianney Novena Day 1, Sunday July 27 – Day 9, Monday August 4th.
Pray this prayer each day.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Saint John Vianney, you were blessed with a loving and devout family who supported your desire to increase your faith and devote yourself fully towards imitating the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. In pursuit of your holy vocation, you were not deterred by the many obstacles that came your way. Your strong faith carried you through life’s trials to your place in God’s kingdom.
Believing in the power of your kind intercession, we humbly ask God to hear our prayers.
Obtain for us many holy Priests, men after God’s own heart, who are courageous, humble, obedient, charitable and zealous for the salvation of souls.
May they remain close to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and be ever guarded from the snares of the enemy.
May they increase in wisdom, strength, faith, and joy, so that by their witness, and aided by the Holy Spirit, they may lead the flock to Heaven.
St. John Vianney, Priest of Ars, pray for all our priests in Geelong and Victoria especially:
- Fr Tho Van Tran, (St Bernards, Belmont)
- Fr James Clarke, Fr Jude Johnson, (St Mary of the Angels Basilica, Geelong)
- Fr Joel Peart (Grovedale, Anglesea, Torquay Parish)
- Fr Joseph Panackal (St Joseph’s, Meredith)
- Fr Linh Pham (Holy Trinity, Queenscliff)
- Fr Minh Tran, (Holy Family Bell Park, Holy Spirit Manifold)
- Fr Marcus Goulding, (St Francis Xavier, Corio and St Anthony of Padua, Lara)
- Fr Daryl Montecillo, (first year formator at Corpus Christi seminary)
- Fr Raymond Bugeja, (St Thomas, Drysdale)
- Fr Raymond Zammit, (St Thomas Aquinas, Norlane)
Offer 1 decade of the rosary (1 Hail Mary for each Parish)
OR: 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary, 1 Glory Be for all our priests in Geelong and in Victoria.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
ATSI Sunday
This weekend we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday and the beginning of NAIDOC week
Our Catholic Church is a tapestry woven from many cultures. From the enduring wisdom of the world’s oldest continuing cultures — the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples — to those who have journeyed from distant lands, we are one Body in Christ. In our diversity, we discover richness. In our unity, we find strength. And in every heart, we see the Spirit of God at work.
As we enter 2025, NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.
Congratulations Jess Hepworth!
We warmly welcome Jess Hepworth as the new Administration Officer! We are very pleased that she has accepted this position in our Parish and wish her well in her new role. Jess, many of you will know, as one of our talented musicians who plays guitar and sings! Please keep her in your prayers as she settles in.
We also THANK Marina Dias who has been filling in during the vacancy. Marina has given much of her time to the role and we are very grateful for all that she has done. THANKYOU!
There will be a special morning tea after 9 am mass on July 6, to welcome Jess and thank Marina. If a few people could bring a small plate that would be appreciated.
Jubilee Pilgrimage - 16th August
St Bernard’s Pilgrimage as a Parish Community.
As a way of celebrating this Jubilee year of Hope, we are inviting all parishioners to attend a Pilgrimage
to Holy Trinity Church in Queenscliff on Saturday 16th August,
where we will celebrate Mass at 12:00noon followed by a short time for personal prayer.
A light shared lunch will be provided.
BUS TRANSPORT
Return bus departing St Bernard’s at 10:45am and departing Holy Trinity at 2:45pm.
Cost $20 per person payable when booking.
OWN TRANSPORT
For catering purposes, please leave your name and contact details on the assigned sheet. (no fee)
Bookings can be made over the next three weeks, via sign-up sheets in the foyer after each Mass or at the Parish Office and will close on Sunday 13th July.
All parishioners attending will also receive a Jubilee passport.
We hope that you accept this opportunity to take part in our Pilgrimage together.
Ordination of John Vespa
Do you remember Deacon John Vespa’s visit to assist Fr Sang during Holy Week 2021?
On the 27th June he was chosen to represent Oceania to be ordained into the Priesthood by Pope Leo XIV! Read more on our Church News page.
Appointment of Two Archbishops
Pope Leo has appointed two new Archbishops in Australia. Bishop Shane Mackinlay has been appointed Archbishop of Brisbane and Bishop Anthony Ireland has been appointed Archbishop of Tasmania. Read more on our Church News page.
1st Eucharist Celebrations
Congratulations to all the children who have prepared to receive the Eucharist for the first time. May this be the beginning of your love for the Eucharist.
The parishioners of St Bernard’s continue to pray for you and your families.
May God bless you
May God keep you
May God’s goodness shine on you
May you see his face
In everything you do.
Pentecost Sunday
Pentecost, the beginning and birthday of the Church, is an annual feast that closes out the Easter season 50 days after the resurrection is celebrated.
‘And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each - in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power.' Acts 2:1-12
This weekend, as we celebrated the coming of the Holy Spirit, we also celebrated our diversity through unity in the one God. We would like to thank all those who took part in the Prayers of the Faithful at each of the masses. Our liturgies were Spirit-filled, celebrating our multicultural community ‘as we heard them speaking in their native language’, as we came together to unite as one, in prayer, faith and friendship.
World Refugee Day 2025 – Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community
Each year on 20 June, the world celebrates World Refugee Day (WRD). WRD is designated by the United Nations to honour refugees who have been forced to flee their homes and to promote solidarity with them for a “world where refugees are welcomed.”
Pope Francis encouraged us to welcome, promote, accompany, and integrate those who knock on our doors. The Pope invited us to pray that “states will strive to ensure humane conditions for refugees and to facilitate integration processes.”
St Bernard’s and Clairvaux School are planning a collaborative activity to promote greater awareness of refugees and the issues they face. The Year 6 team and Student 'Social Justice" Group are very keen to take part in promoting a combined school / parish effort to understand and support refugees/asylum seekers in Geelong.
The Parish has invited Yvonne Paturso, a parishioner, to speak at all masses on the 31/5 and the 1/6 about her work with refugees at Wesley Place. Yvonne will also speak to the children at Clairvaux school.
We would like to invite parishioners to assist children from Clairvaux School to support the Wesley Asylum Seeker Welcome Place by donating specific foods to enable refugees to cook meals that are culturally familiar to particular groups. A list of foods is available in the Foyer of St Bernard’s Church and attached to our bulletin as well as on our website. Foods can be brought to church or left at Clairvaux School.
Refugee and Asylum Seeker Food Bank
Please donate food Items
only from the list.
We are collecting specific food items in conjunction with Clairvaux Catholic School for the Asylum Seeker Food Bank @ Wesley Place in support of Refugee Week.
Items can be placed in the basket provided or taken to the SCHOOL office.
Thankyou!
10th Anniversary!
Laudato Si’ Week is a celebration held annually in May to mark the anniversary of Pope Francis’s landmark encyclical on caring for creation. This global celebration unites Catholics to listen and respond together to the cry of creation, rejoice in the progress we have made in bringing Laudato Si’ to life, and intensify our efforts through the Laudato Si’ Action Platform as well as other opportunities for education and action.
This year Laudato Si’ Week is extra special as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’ in the Year of Jubilee, a hope for the renewal of creation. It is also a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge with gratitude the incredible inspiration of Pope Francis in caring for our common home.
Caritas Australia’s focus this year is debt, and the impact debt has on earth and each other.
Through the global campaign, Turn Debt into Hope, we invite you to stand with us during Laudato Si’ Week.
Together, we can Turn Debt into Hope and build a more just world.
Pope Leo XIV
“I announce to you a great joy. We have a pope, Habemus papam,”
Cardinal Robert Prevost, the Chicago-born prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, has been elected the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
We pray for His Holiness Pope Leo and wish him many blessings as he continues to share the Word of God.
Happy Mother’s Day!
A Prayer for Mother’s Day
Loving God,
We thank you for the gift of mothers and all women of faith.
Like Mary, may they continue to say yes to Your call,
guiding others with wisdom, compassion, and courage.
Bless those who nurture, protect, and teach.
Console those who grieve, long, or remember.
And may we honour them with lives of kindness and grace.
Amen.
ST BERNARDS BOOK FAIR 2025
What an amazing day we had last Sunday at the annual book fair. People were lined up at the door before 8am and the crowd kept coming through the doors all day.
Thank you to everyone involved
- Those who donated books
- Those who came along and purchased books and cakes
- Those who delivered pamphlets around their neighbourhood
- Those who baked for the cake stall
- Those who came and helped the set up and pack up
In particular we want to acknowledge the generous contributions from:
Sacred Heart College staff and students for their wonderful baking for the cake stall
Felicity McFarlane for her delicious baskets of scones
Bill Pohl who helped set up and pack up and worked tirelessly all day at the fair
Marie and Gordon Hutchinson who ran the cake stall
Karen Marshall and Joanna Wills who worked at the pay table all day
MONEY RAISED
CAKE STALL - $1983
BOOKS - $8214
TOTAL PROFIT - $10,197
This is truly a wonderful Parish event which happens because of your great support – thank you again to everyone and put Sunday May 3rd 2026 in your diary for next year!
Peter Wills, Margaret Wills, Helen Brislane.
Of course all this could not be possible without the tireless work of Peter and Marg Wills and Helen Brislane. They work through out the year to prepare the annual Book fair.
St Bernard’s Parish says a HUGE thank you to them.
Parish Bulletin
The Archdiocese is is installing a new computer system which requires us to change the way we do things. We will stop using ‘Mailchimp’ from now on. If you would like to continue to receive our St Bernard’s Parish Bulletin by email you will need to subscribe using the button above. This is a FREE subscription. Click the Button above and follow the simple prompts. The information you provide will not be provided to any third party.
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Welcome!
Are you new to the Parish?
Are you a Parishioner and would like to know more about our Parish?
Would you like to get to know others in our Parish?
Our Parish Leadership Team (PLT) are here to help!
On the FIRST WEEKEND of the month a member of the PLT will be available after mass in the foyer, to answer any questions you may have or just to be available for a chat. Maybe you have some new ideas. Let us know!