The Diocese of Bathurst launched Project Compassion 2026 on Friday 20 February at MacKillop College Bathurst.

Students and staff from MacKillop College were joined by representatives from Cathedral School Bathurst, Assumption School Bathurst and the Diocesan Youth Ministry Bathurst. The gathering was warmly welcomed by Principal Peter Halpin and concluded with thanks from Acting Religious Education Co-ordinator Kathryn Bennett.

Bishop of Bathurst, Michael McKenna, led the liturgy and formally launched Project Compassion. Also in attendance were Fr Francis, Fr Nam and Deacon Josh, who serves as the Diocesan Director for Caritas Australia.

During the liturgy, Bishop McKenna reminded those present that many of us have far greater resources than the communities supported by Caritas each year. Lent invites us to respond through deeper prayer, generous almsgiving and meaningful fasting.

Project Compassion is the annual Lenten appeal of Caritas Australia and an opportunity to place faith into action as we prepare for Easter.

You can support Project Compassion by going directly to the Caritas Australia Project Compassion website to donate and learn more.