Social Justice

Catholic Social Teaching calls us to recognise the dignity of every person, care for the vulnerable, and work for the common good. Rooted in the Gospel and the Church’s rich tradition, social justice is not just an optional commitment but an essential part of living our faith in the world today.

As a city church, St Patrick’s Cathedral finds itself at the heart of urban social challenges – issues like homelessness, refugee support, and marginalisation are all present in the Parramatta community. In response, our Social Justice Ministry was formed to create a parish space where faith and action meet, championing justice, compassion, and human dignity.

The Social Justice Ministry has grown steadily over the past year, both in numbers and in its outreach. Key activities have included:

• Hosting a TableTalk event with Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS), creating powerful personal encounters with refugee stories;
• Organising three parish food drives supporting both JRS and the local Vinnies conference;
• Supporting the inaugural Diocesan Homeless Memorial Service through homemade soup ministry;
• Delivering a successful Parish Trivia Night to raise funds for a community lunch for refugees and asylum seekers;
• Participating in local outreach efforts, including a volunteer shift at Parramatta Mission;
• Collaborating with the diocesan social justice network and neighbouring parishes;
• Hosting a Community Lunch in September 2024, bringing together around 100 parishioners, refugee families, and students from local Catholic schools to share a day of food, fellowship, and solidarity.

Our Social Justice Ministry continues to discern its role, always seeking to respond to the Gospel call:

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
(Matthew 25:40)

We warmly invite all parishioners to get involved – whether through participating in events, supporting initiatives, or simply learning more about social justice issues impacting our city. Together, we are called to be a Church that listens, accompanies, and acts.

For more information, contact: [email protected]