Easter Mass times for parishes in the diocese.

The first edition of ODC for 2017 is now available in parishes and on the Diocesan website. 

The Australian Catholic Youth Festival 2017 has launched a Song, Art, and Film Competition. If you are a musician, artist or filmmaker please consider submitting a song, artwork or film. The entries should reflect on the Festival theme: "Open New Horizons for Spreading Joy." There are some great prizes!  The Festival offers a multitude of ways of expressing Catholic faith in an amazing 3 day experience.  The Festival is for Year 9-25yos.  Parishes and schools are asked to consider sending a group.  Smaller parishes might join together or connect their young people with another parish.  Ballarat Diocese will be assisting with this, including planning travel and accommodation.  

Take the time to read and reflect on Sunday’s Gospel.

Prayer for this edition of E-News.

While it can feel like our best intentions to buy products free from forced, child and trafficked labour have little impact, this is not true.  The global chocolate industry is changing – and you can be assured that every time you vote with your dollar, you are making a stand for the kind of world you want to live in.

1. Buying Certified Chocolate Ethical certification is still the most credible assurance against forced, child and trafficked labour in your products.

2. Ask chocolate companies to commit to 100% ethically sourced cocoa by 2020.  Companies listen to you – their customers.  Speak up as well as voting with your dollar.  Join in campaigns.

3. Tell retailers to stock more certified products.  Making it easier to purchase will encourage more people to buy more ethically, more often.  Invite your community to submit this letter to local retailers.