On the weekend of 26–27 April, parishes across the Diocese of Bathurst will join with others across the country in supporting the annual appeal for the Catholic Military Ordinariate of Australia. This is a special opportunity for the faithful to offer spiritual and financial support to the men and women of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their families.

The Military Ordinariate plays a vital role in the life of the Church in Australia. Established to care for Catholics serving in the Navy, Army and Air Force, it provides pastoral care to thousands of active personnel and veterans, both on base and during deployment. This includes regular Masses, sacramental ministry, spiritual formation, grief counselling and moral support—wherever service takes them.

At the heart of this work are Catholic chaplains, who walk closely with Defence members through the joys and trials of service life. Whether in peacekeeping missions or during times of armed conflict, these priests bring the presence of Christ into some of the most challenging environments imaginable. As they offer the Sacraments and spiritual comfort, they remind our servicemen and women that the Church remains with them, even far from home.

Funds raised through the appeal support the recruitment and training of Catholic chaplains, ongoing pastoral programs and chaplaincy outreach to families. As military service often comes with isolation, relocation and trauma, the ministry of the Ordinariate offers a vital link to the wider Church and a reminder that they are not forgotten.

The appeal falls near ANZAC Day—a fitting time to honour the sacrifice and service of all Defence personnel, past and present. It is also a moment to give thanks for the quiet and faithful ministry of chaplains, who uphold our Catholic values in extraordinary settings.

You can support the Military Ordinariate Appeal by donating at your local parish during Mass on the weekend of 26–27 April, or online via the B- Point link here: