Sunday 27 April 2025
Not from the Pulpit: Fr Richard Leonard SJ PP
I thought this column would only be about thanking everyone who made our Easter ceremonies so wonderful. However, last Easter Monday, Francis, our Jesuit brother, chief pastor, and Pope died.
There are so many legacies from his leadership that you might recall, but here are the ten that presently stand out for me:
He Spoke Accessibly: I doubt as many people have ever read Papal Documents as they have over the last 12 years. He thought the Gospel and its application was best communicated in direct and immediate language.
Mercy and Joy became the centerpieces of his papacy: He invited us to focus on forgiveness and healing rather than judgment and exclusion. He told us to smile.
He was an Advocate for the Poor and Marginalized: True to his namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, he constantly called for a “Church of the poor for the poor,” highlighting economic inequality, criticizing unbridled capitalism, and the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.
Zero tolerance for Abuse: He was initially slow to understand the enormity of these despicable crimes, for which he later asked for forgiveness from victims. Even though we still have a long way to go for justice and healing for survivors and their families, Francis demanded that the church become a transparent and safe community for all people.
Environmental Leadership: his 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si” was a groundbreaking document on the environment, urging action on climate change and care for “our common home.” It positioned the Church as a moral voice in global ecological debates.
Reforming Church Governance and Finances: Francis launched reforms to clean up the Vatican’s finances and bring transparency to the often-opaque workings of the Roman Curia. While progress has been mixed, he made it a central focus of his leadership.
To Adopt a More Pastoral, Less Dogmatic Approach: Rather than changing doctrine, Francis emphasized meeting people where they are, as they are. He told us that our first instinct should always be to have the compassion of Jesus.
Synodality and Listening Church: He promoted the idea of a synodal Church, emphasizing listening, discernment, and shared decision-making. The Synod on Synodality (2021–2024) has been a bold experiment in ecclesial consultation, including giving laypeople an equal vote to clerics for the first time in 1700 years.
Outreach to our LGBTQI+ sisters and brothers: Francis called for greater respect and dignity for our gay friends and family, famously saying, “Who am I to judge?” He supported civil unions and emphasized welcome over condemnation.
Humility and Simplicity in the Papacy: From refusing to live in the papal palace, wearing simple liturgical attire, driving a tiny Fiat, to seeking every opportunity to spend time with the poor, Francis modeled humility. This part of his leadership resonated with everyday people, believer and nonbeliever alike.
There remains much for us to do to realise what he started, but he was for many of us the face of Christ for the last 12 years, giving us hope and joy in being a more missionary Church. May his gentle soul enjoy eternal life and abundant joy.
A huge thank you to the scores and scores of people who made Holy Week in our three churches so engaging, moving and powerful. The crowds who came to almost everything were the largest seen in a very long time. We hope they return and find a home amongst us. Happy Easter.
Fr Richard Leonard’s SJ PP HOMILIES
In his homilies, Fr Richard offers thoughtful insights, real-world connections, and a deep sense of faith to guide us through the week. Whether you’re part of our parish or watching from afar, we hope these reflections bring you encouragement and inspiration. View now on the Parish YouTube Channel
Women Companions in Spirituality – May the force of God be with you!
Sun 4 May 12.30 – 2.30pm, Ron Dyer Centre
All are welcome! Join us for a reflection and share your stories. Try your hand at haiku. Haiku is a powerful tool for women to reclaim their voices through its unique blend of brevity, imagery, and emotional resonance. Don’t miss this opportunity to nurture your spiritual journey and connect with other women in our community. www.trybooking.com/DAWCQ
Hosted by Michelle Dellagiacoma & Linda Newcomb.
· Michelle Dellagiacoma wears six hats, or roles: a city strategic planner, carer, wife, mother, community and industry negotiator/facilitator, and meditation group leader with a doctorate in feminist policy and care.
· Linda Newcomb taught English at the tertiary level for over 30 years. In 2004 she volunteered with Lifeline, eventually working as a clinical counsellor. She retired in 2022 and continued to be guided by "What you are is God's gift to you; what you become is your gift to God". Hans Urs von Balthasar" . (1905-1988)
No experience needed, just a pen, paper, and an open heart.
We’ll continue the conversation afterwards over tea and snacks. (If you have a gift for cooking, bring a sweet or savory plate to share!) Contact: Teresa Paredes, womensministry@northsydneycatholics.com
SAVE THE DATES
Mass of Ordination to the Priesthood of Joshua Choong SJ & Isaac Demase SJ
Sat 5 July 2025 @ 10:00 am, St Mary’s Church, 264 Miller Street, North Sydney
We invite the community to celebrate the ordination to the priesthood of Joshua Yew Khean Choong SJ and Isaac Anthony Demase SJ by the Most Rev Gregory O’Kelly SJ. This significant event will be held at St Mary’s Church, North Sydney. Please join us for refreshments in the parish hall at the Ron Dyer Centre following the Mass. RSVP: www.trybooking.com/DAKYP
Mass of Thanksgiving for Rev Isaac Demase SJ
Sun 6 July 2025 @ 6:00 pm, St Mary’s Church, North Sydney
You are warmly invited to a Mass of Thanksgiving in honour of Rev Isaac Demase SJ, newly ordained priest. This special celebration will be held at St Mary’s Church, followed by a reception in the Ron Dyer Centre. RSVP: www.trybooking.com/DALEW.
All are welcome to join these occasions to support and pray for Isaac and Joshua as they begin their priestly ministry.