Dear brothers and sisters in Christ

It has been a great joy to me as your Bishop to know that our churches are being re-opened, and with the COVID-19 plans all in place to ensure the safety and health of all our parishioners and priests.

It has been a challenging time for all of us and yet through this time our marvellous support for each other and for your priests has been an amazing part of our Diocesan journey.

The events of Victoria and New South Wales surely ask for our prayers for all people during this challenging time and reminds us that the virus is not far from our own doorsteps and that we need to keep taking notice of our health authorities to ensure that we are kept healthy and safe.

I look forward to being able to visit you soon as more restrictions are being lifted so I can connect with you in your parish communities.

Next week we celebrate Catholic Education Week and we acknowledge the incredible work that our Cathoic teachers and schools have been doing during these times - together with the whole Catholic community, including our parishes, St Vincent de Paul, Catholic health services and our own CentacareCQ.  All of these ministries form part of the imprint of the Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton which contributes to the faith and life of our Diocese.

With prayers,