The Church in Oceania

Residents of Taybeh, the last entirely Christian village in the West Bank, are unable to harvest their olives for the fourth consecutive year because much of their land remains inaccessible. Palestinian Christian activist Ihab Hassan reported that while residents are restricted, Israeli settlers continue to move freely through the area.

The Israeli government declared Taybeh a closed military zone in August following months of settler attacks, stating the measure was intended to protect residents. However, Hassan said these restrictions apply only to Palestinians and prevent pilgrims, journalists, and outsiders from entering the village.

Bishop James Curry, the lead bishop for the Holy Land for the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, expressed alarm regarding the military zone designation. He noted that the ban threatens to cut off vital income from tourism and pilgrimages while reducing international scrutiny of the situation.

More than 600 educators, leaders, and staff from the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) attended the 2026 Ann D Clark Lecture to participate in professional learning. The annual event honors Ann D Clark, the founding Executive Director of Catholic Education for the diocese.

Professor Lorraine Hammond delivered the keynote address, titled The Bridge to Excellence. Drawing on her research and her work leading the Kimberley Schools Project, Hammond discussed how evidence-informed teaching can improve student outcomes and maximize learning.

CSPD Chief Executive Officer Jack de Groot opened the event by encouraging educators to grow their expertise and recommit to their students. Pat Ellis, the CSPD Executive General Manager for Learning, Quality, and Performance, served as the master of ceremonies.

Staff at the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands gathered on October 12, 2026, to honor teachers and celebrate staff milestones.

The gathering commemorated World Teachers Day to recognize individuals contributing to the country's formal and informal education sectors. Staff also celebrated the birthdays of employees born in October and marked an important service milestone.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State, said that ending wars requires moving past the logic of domination and addressing inequalities. In an interview with the Italian newspaper la Repubblica, the Cardinal discussed global violence and the crisis of multilateralism following his return from the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Parolin noted that a loss of mutual trust is the primary cause of the current crisis in multilateralism, which he said is creating widespread pessimism. He suggested that a renewed multilateralism can only be achieved through continuous reform that assesses whether current structures remain effective in changing circumstances. He observed that during the UN gathering, there were repeated calls to return to the principles of international law.

The Cardinal stated that this return to international law requires all parties in international affairs to reaffirm their political will and embrace fundamental human values, a point he noted was emphasized by Pope Leo XIV in Magnifica humanitas.

Regarding specific conflicts, Parolin expressed deep concern for the civilian populations in the Gulf and Gaza. He said he is monitoring indirect contacts in hopes of finding an opening for peace, as previous talks have failed to reach a lasting solution.

The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors met in Rome from September 28 to October 2 to establish priorities for its next phase of work, according to a press release from October 5. Members focused on accountability, the involvement of victims and survivors, and strengthening protection structures across the global Church.

During the assembly, members reviewed the upcoming Third Annual Report on Church protection policies and procedures. They also approved a working document for the Fourth Annual Report, which is scheduled for publication in 2027. The Commission noted that the participation of victims and survivors is essential to understanding how institutions respond to abuse and creating policies to prevent it from happening again.

The Commission also reviewed plans to distribute and implement the next phase of its Universal Safeguarding Framework. Discussions centered on making these guidelines accessible and using existing local and regional Church structures to support them. Additionally, members examined the implementation of new Commission statutes and the sustainability of safeguarding efforts worldwide.

Fr. Jobi Payyapilly was installed as the parish priest of St. Aidan’s in Rooty Hill on Sunday, September 27.

Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, led the installation ceremony. During the service, Fr. Payyapilly renewed the promises made during his ordination on September 8, 2005.

Parishioners described Fr. Payyapilly as an active leader who encourages community involvement. Alma Espima, a parishioner for 22 years, noted his tendency to engage in direct action, while siblings Rezza and Ysabella Bondoc recently participated in a parish working bee organized by the new priest.

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe of Perth met with Pope Leo XIV at the Papal Library in the Vatican last weekend. The meeting occurred during a global Vatican summit for presidents of bishops' conferences, which runs from October 7 to October 14, 2026.

Archbishop Costelloe told The Record that he discussed current issues facing the Church in Australia with the Pope. These discussions included the 2028 International Eucharistic Congress scheduled for Sydney. During the conversation, the Pope expressed his hope to travel to Australia for the congress. Archbishop Costelloe noted that he extended an invitation for the Pope to visit Perth as well.

The Archbishop used the meeting to convey the support and prayers of the people in his archdiocese and across Australia. He described the meeting as one of several appointments the Pope held that morning with various groups and individuals.

Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton urged Catholics to welcome, listen to, and engage with migrants and refugees during a Mass for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees at St. Mary’s Cathedral on September 27.

Bishop Sproxton said people need open hearts to listen deeply and understand the experiences of others. He noted that migrants and refugees primarily seek recognition, friendship, and safe places where they can flourish.

The Bishop addressed the theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV, Even Just One of These Children, which highlights the vulnerability of young people forced to leave their homelands or separate from their families. He stated that Christ calls the Church to welcome newcomers in a special way.

Referring to teachings from Pope Francis, Bishop Sproxton explained that a simple welcome is insufficient and that newcomers should be fully received. He added that the Church must also listen to learn about the individuals entering their communities.

St Mary’s Cathedral in Perth will host the Festival of Christ the King on Sunday, November 22, 2026, to launch the Catholic Youth Ministry journey toward World Youth Day Seoul 2027.

The event begins with a youth Mass at 5pm, followed by a festival on the cathedral grounds. Activities include live music, expo stalls, laser tag, various youth activities, and food trucks. Adam Phillips, the director of Catholic Youth Ministry, said the festival serves as an opportunity for young people from across the archdiocese to gather in faith and friendship.

The festival is free and open to all ages, though participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or designated adult. Attendees can register online at the official festival website.

Maida Vale Parish celebrated the patronal feast of St Francis of Assisi on Sunday 4 October, marking 800 years since the death of the saint in 1226. More than 350 people attended the event at St Francis of Assisi Church, which included a procession with a statue of St Francis of Assisi and a Multicultural Food Festival.

Perth Vicar General Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn served as the principal celebrant for the Mass. Parish Priest Fr Benna Calanza concelebrated the liturgy alongside Deacon Trevor Lyra.

During the celebration, Fr Glynn noted that St Francis's mission to repair the house of God evolved from rebuilding a physical chapel to renewing hearts and the Church. He stated that the saint's life was driven by a profound love for Jesus Christ and a commitment to living according to the Gospel.

Cáit Folan-Sfakianakis has submitted a petition to the Western Australian Parliament requesting that the Lord’s Prayer continue to open parliamentary proceedings.

The petition follows a tradition in the Westminster system where Christian prayer has opened sittings since 1558. In Western Australia, the Legislative Council maintained this practice from Federation, and the Legislative Assembly adopted the Lord’s Prayer by resolution in 1928. Both chambers have used the prayer to begin sessions since that time.

The Record reports that the petition represents an effort by people of faith in Western Australia to ensure the prayer remains a part of the legislative process. Supporters of the petition suggest the prayer serves as an act of humility and a reminder that elected officials are accountable to a higher authority while exercising public power.

The Record reviewed the animated adventure Forgotten Island, warning parents that the film is too frightening for young children and contains messages inappropriate for impressionable viewers. The review notes that the screenplay, written and directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, portrays rule-breaking and disrespectful behavior as fun.

The story follows two Filipina friends, Raissa and Jo, who travel to the mystical isle of Nakali through a magical portal. During their journey, the characters encounter figures from Philippine mythology, including a youthful were-dog named Raww, a three-eyed baby demon called Bungi, and a cave dweller.

The St Vincent de Paul Society is calling on the Albanese Government to create official poverty measures and set specific targets to reduce poverty, with a focus on children. Marking Anti-Poverty Week from October 11 to 17, the Society noted that unofficial estimates based on household income suggest poverty affects 3.7 million Australians, including 757,000 children under age 15.

St Vincent de Paul Society National President Mark Gaetani said it is a national disgrace that over three-quarters of a million children lack the stability, safety, and opportunities they deserve. Gaetani stated that because children do not earn an income, current unofficial measures may hide or understate their hardship. He said the country needs standard indicators to track whether children have sufficient food, secure housing, and access to healthcare, education, and community participation.

The Society is urging community groups, businesses, and other organizations to advocate alongside them for government change. Currently, Australia lacks an official national measure of poverty.

Fr. Evance, a Franciscan Capuchin friar in the Diocese of Kimbe, is warning residents to be careful with fire as the El Niño dry season increases the risk of spreading flames. The parish priest of Bitokara St. Theresia of the Child Jesus noted that fires are breaking out frequently, with dry grass and oil palm catching fire rapidly.

Fr. Evance, who also serves as the coordinator for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation for the Capuchins in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, warned that smoke from these fires is putting public health at risk.

Trinity Catholic College in Adamstown celebrated its first graduating class of 32 Year 12 students, marking the school's completion of the transition from St Pius X High School to a full secondary school.

Bishop Michael Kennedy, Father Greg, and Father Joseph joined students, families, and staff to recognize the achievements of the cohort. The graduation follows a transition process that began in 2024 when the school changed its name and structure.

Musician and former St Pius X High School student Mark Wells spoke to the graduates about his experiences with perseverance and resilience.

Fr. James Mallon spoke at the Renewed and Sent national Parish Renewal Summit held from October 1 to 3 at St. Gregory’s College in Campbelltown. The event, co-hosted by Divine Renovation Australia and the Diocese of Wollongong, brought together bishops, priests, deacons, parish teams, and lay people from 26 dioceses across Australia.

The summit included a dedicated clergy day on October 1. Mallon, the founder of Divine Renovation, joined other speakers including Bishop Brian Mascord of Wollongong, Divine Renovation Global CEO Brett Powell, coaching director Matt Regitz, and Sr. Mary Immanuel of the Immaculata community.

Participants attended sessions on prayer, Mass, adoration, and keynotes designed to help parishes move from maintenance to mission. Mallon noted that during the clergy session, priests engaged in mutual encouragement and shared wisdom regarding their ministry.

The ABC Ombudsman, Fiona Cameron, dismissed a formal complaint from Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP regarding the broadcaster's coverage of voluntary assisted dying in July.

Archbishop Fisher alleged that the broadcaster lacked impartiality and failed to present alternative viewpoints during a period coinciding with the ALP national convention. In a letter reported by The Australian, the Archbishop argued that the ABC repeatedly gave Andrew Denton, the founder of the advocacy group Go Gentle Australia, multiple opportunities to promote law reform across television, radio, online, and social media within nine days. Fisher noted that the ABC's own editorial standards require the broadcaster to avoid advocating for specific outcomes in contentious social debates.

Cameron denied that the ABC's coverage lacked impartiality.

Religious leaders in France issued the Metz Appeal in the presence of Pope Leo XIV, calling for peace, fraternity, and reconciliation. The leaders stated that humanity is at a turning point due to war, inequality, ecological instability, and technological changes, which requires religious communities to work together to protect human dignity.

The appeal defines peace as more than the absence of war, requiring justice, solidarity between generations, and care for the environment. The leaders condemned discrimination and hate speech, specifically expressing indignation over recent attacks against places of worship and people in France based on their faith or origins. They also rejected totalitarianism, noting the historical suffering it caused in the Lorraine region.

The document declares that no religious truth or spiritual tradition should be used to justify violence or hatred. To foster peace, the leaders suggested using dialogue, prayer, and meditation to address the internal fears that lead to the rejection of others. They committed to rejecting vengeance and humiliation while focusing on education and reconciliation to heal wounds caused by violence.

The Holy Name of Mary Rydalmere Parish blessed a new tabernacle during its patronal feast day on Sunday, September 13.

Fr. Peter Williams AM, Vicar General of the Diocese of Parramatta, served as the principal celebrant for the Mass, while parish priest Fr. Vincent Savarimuthu concelebrated. The blessing of the new tabernacle in Holy Name of Mary Church was a central part of the celebration of the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary.

During the blessing, Fr. Williams prayed that the tabernacle would serve as a sacred place for the community to encounter Christ in the Eucharist and provide a space for peace and grace.

Bishop Michael Kennedy of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle said new research regarding why Australian Catholics do not regularly attend Sunday Mass provides an opportunity to improve how the Church welcomes people.

The findings come from the Absent from the Table report, which was commissioned by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference. According to Bishop Kennedy, the research shows that many participants maintain their faith through prayer, community contributions, and Catholic education even if they no longer attend church services regularly.

Bishop Kennedy noted that while the connection to God remains for many, the results challenge the Church to look beyond why people are absent and instead consider what they are seeking and how to help them feel a sense of belonging. He stated that people in the diocese connect with the Church through various channels, including parishes, Catholic schools, St Nicholas Early Education centres, and CatholicCare Social Services.

A pageant during a recent papal visit to France honored the nation's spiritual history by depicting various saints in their missionary roles. The presentation included figures such as Joan of Arc, Vincent de Paul, and Thérèse of Lisieux.

Kate Cleary of The Catholic Weekly noted that while the secular press focused on youth protests in the streets, it provided no coverage of this tribute to France's religious legacy. Cleary observed that although Catholicism has a diminished role in France's secular culture, the young people participating in the pageant represent a source of hope for the Church.

The Maronite Church is celebrating the Season of the Holy Cross. Unlike the Latin Church, which uses Ordinary Time, the Maronite liturgical calendar revolves around the mysteries of Christ through specific seasons.

This season follows the Sundays of the Consecration and Renewal of the Church and precedes the Transfiguration of the Church. The season emphasizes that all life is cleansed and made holy through the Cross of Christ.

Historical records from a 1263 copy of the Maronite Divine Office found in the Bet Gazo treasury contain numerous hymns and psalms regarding the power of the Cross. One such hymn, titled A New Rogation, describes the Cross as a source of light and miracles for those who contemplate it.

Bishops and representatives of the Australasian-Middle East Christian Apostolic Churches (AMEC) issued a joint statement on September 29 criticizing the Australian government for not condemning a series of events titled Unholy/Divine at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The religious leaders expressed disappointment regarding the government's silence and called for leaders to end what they described as an attitude of hate toward Christianity.

The statement noted that while individuals have the freedom to express themselves or ridicule religious beliefs within the law, the group is concerned that such expressions receive government financial support. Although no specific funding was reportedly allocated for these particular events, the AMEC pointed out that the venue receives millions of dollars in government funding annually. The group also highlighted that Divine Playhouse, which previously operated out of a former church, recently received a $100,000 grant from Create NSW.

The Christian leaders stated that government principles regarding social cohesion and intolerance must extend to Christians. They requested that leaders defend freedom of speech while also condemning speech that deliberately denigrates people of faith and ensuring public funds do not support such content. Three Unholy/Divine events remain scheduled at the museum through October.

Pope Leo XIV is developing a pastoral leadership style centered on spiritual themes and Augustinian philosophy, according to a report from Catholic Outlook.

During a recent trip to France, the pope addressed large crowds at the Place de la Concorde and the Stade de France, as well as pilgrims at the grotto in Lourdes. At the Mass in the Place de la Concorde, the pope spoke about human restlessness and the search for fulfillment, suggesting that only God can satisfy the deep desires of the human person.

In his sermon at Lourdes, the pope continued to draw on these Augustinian roots to address the spiritual needs of the faithful. His recent address to the bishops of France also reflected his specific approach to governing the Church.

Pope Leo XIV told reporters outside Castel Gandolfo on September 30, 2025, that individuals who oppose abortion but support the death penalty do not truly hold a pro-life position.

The Pope's statement addressed the consistency of the pro-life stance. According to a report from Catholic Outlook, the teaching has prompted significant public discussion, drawing over 1,000 comments on social media.

The Bishop of Parramatta Award for Student Excellence recognized Year 12 students for their faith, service, leadership, and learning during a ceremony on September 3 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Parramatta.

The awards honored students nominated by their schools for contributions to social justice, liturgy, prayer, peer mentoring, community service, and student leadership. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Chief Executive Jack de Groot told recipients that the awards recognize the values the diocese seeks to nurture in every student.

The event included families, school representatives, and staff from Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese. Guests included Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Father Robert Riedling, Prospect State Member Hugh McDermott MP, and Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.

Lubomir Martin Ondrasek has published a book documenting how St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Piscataway applied the six pastoral goals of the Archdiocese of Washington.

The book, titled Called to Walk Together: Letters to a Parish on Vision, Discernment, and Renewal, uses a series of letters written to parishioners during a discernment process. Ondrasek, the pastoral associate for formation and mission at St. Mary’s, records how the community received, discussed, and prayed over the diocesan goals.

The work details the transition of a diocesan mission plan into specific parish practices. Ondrasek connects the practical steps of renewal to theological principles, suggesting that parish growth requires both structural changes and spiritual conversion.

Thirty-one members of the Awesome Mothers Association gathered in Toongabbie in September to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sydney-wide prayer and support group. The group has included about 100 women over the years.

Founding member Rosie Gordon established the group at St Dominic’s parish in Flemington to create a Catholic version of existing mothers' groups. The association holds regular gatherings in members' homes to ensure mothers and children feel welcome. Members maintain contact through email.

Less than one third of unmarried young adults are dating regularly, according to the 2026 State of our Unions report from the US Institute for Family Studies.

Francine and Byron Pirola of SmartLoving report that while 86 percent of these young adults still expect to marry, many are staying on the sidelines due to financial concerns, low confidence, and past emotional hurt. Young singles also expressed exhaustion from trying to balance work or studies with the rising cost of living, as well as difficulty finding partners who share their faith and values.

In conversations with young adult singles, some participants noted that dating within serious Catholic circles can feel like a job interview rather than a way to get to know someone. Despite the decline in active dating, the report indicates that singles are not looking for casual relationships but instead want to build serious emotional connections.

Bishop Mark Freeman admitted Simon Zakari to candidacy for Holy Orders during a 5:00 p.m. Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Ballarat on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

The rite marks a formal step in the candidates' preparation for the diaconate and priesthood within the Diocese of Ballarat. During his homily, Bishop Freeman told the candidates that their identity as disciples in communion with Jesus is more important than any future ministry. He encouraged them to live their vocation through faith, hope, and love, and to love the people of God in the diocese.

Bishop Emeritus Paul Bird attended the celebration.

More than 230 students from 23 Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese primary and secondary schools gathered at Wanderers Fives in Rooty Hill on Monday, September 14, for the 2026 Socktober launch and soccer gala day. The event, a collaboration between the diocese, Catholic Mission, and the Western Sydney Wanderers, used football to teach students about global poverty.

The annual Socktober campaign raises funds and awareness for children and communities facing poverty. This year's efforts support communities in Malawi to help children access food and education.

During the event, Stephen Bali, the State Member for Blacktown, and Dr. Mark Smith, the diocese's executive general manager for mission, leadership, and culture, spoke to students about the importance of community and standing in solidarity with those experiencing disadvantage. Robyn Keisers, a school engagement coordinator at Catholic Mission, said the program uses sport and faith to inspire young people to become agents of change.

Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, which was launched at the Vatican Synod Hall in Rome. The document draws on Catholic social doctrine and magisterial teaching to address contemporary issues, including the role of artificial intelligence.

The encyclical was signed on May 15, coinciding with the 135th anniversary of Rerum Novarum, the 1891 letter by Pope Leo XIII regarding human dignity. According to a contributor for Catholic Outlook, the text is characterized by its theological depth and its application of Catholic thought to the modern world.