Diocese invites all to launch a Year of Mercy and celebrate 150 year anniversary
Pope Francis and Bishop Bill Wright are issuing a joint invitation to all members of the local community to take part in the Diocese's Year of Mercy, which will also see the Diocese celebrate its 150th year anniversary.
Beginning on the 8th December, the first step will see Pope Francis opening the Door of Mercy at St Peter's Basilica in Rome. This will be followed on Sunday 13th December as Bishop Bill Wright will open the Door of Mercy at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Hamilton.
"Everyone is invited to this event which marks the official start to our local Year of Mercy and the 150th anniversary of our Diocese. There will be a procession from the nearby Victor Peters Suite to the cathedral, where I will open the door to inaugurate the Year of Mercy,"
"Since being elected Pope in 2013, Pope Francis' words – and more importantly his gestures – have shown the world that he is a humble man, and very much one with the people. His invitation to "be merciful as God is merciful" comes at a time when unrest, fear and conflict are part of the daily lives of many,"
"By coupling this important event with the celebration of the Diocese's 150th anniversary, we hope to see everyone in the community come together as one to reflect on and reaffirm their faith." Bishop Bill said.
The Diocese's 150th year anniversary and the church's Year of Mercy will continue to run throughout 2016 with a range of events and activities for all to participate in.
Media opportunity
What: Launch of the Year of Mercy and celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle
When: Sunday 13th December, 4pm
Where: Beginning at the Victor Peters Suite – 841 Hunter St, Newcastle West and moving to Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Who: Bishop Bill Wright, Diocesan leaders and Catholics from throughout the Newcastle and Hunter.
