On Sunday 3 November at the 10.00am Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael McKenna in the Cathedral of St Michael and St John, six of our extraordinary SRE (Special Religious Education) Catechists were honoured by receiving a Papal Blessing presented to them by Bishop Michael. Each of these wonderful people have taught SRE in the Diocese of Bathurst for 30 years or more.

Lynette Frecklington celebrating 42 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Orange at Cudal Public School.

Bernadette Sheehy celebrating 41 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Cowra is teaching at Mulyan and Cowra Public Schools.

Rosemarie Sciuto celebrating 40 years of Service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Orange and previously in Sydney.

Denise Basha celebrating 32 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Bathurst is teaching at Kelso Public School.

Jann Whitty celebrating 31 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Cowra is teaching at Mulyan and Cowra Public Schools.

Norman Dowton celebrating 30 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Dubbo.

Nicole Johnstone Brenac celebrating 56 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Dubbo and previously in Sydney.

Frances Hansen celebrating 46 years of service as a Special Religious Education Catechist in the Parish of Blayney at Carcoar Public School and previously in Orange.

Unfortunately, Frances and Nicole were unable to be present on the day so will be presented with their Papal blessing in their own Parishes at a later date.

Following Mass, a luncheon was held, hosted by Bishop McKenna at Matthew Quinn House in Bathurst.

Friends and family of these much loved SRE Catechists were in attendance to celebrate with them on this special and joyful occasion. 

We give thanks to God for these generous people and ask that many blessings be bestowed upon them for sharing their gift of faith with God’s little ones.

                                “You are the light of the world….
                                 Let your light shine before others,
                                 So that they may see your good works,
                                 And give glory to Your Father in Heaven.”

                                                                              Mt 5:14-16