On Sunday 12 September 2021, the Church of Maitland-Newcastle will observe Perpetual Day of Remembrance Sunday, an occasion that is now inscribed in our diocesan liturgical calendar for the Sunday on or immediately before 15 September, the Perpetual Day of Remembrance. Perpetual Day of Remembrance Sunday, decreed by Bishop Bill in 2020 as a permanent fixture in the liturgical life of the Church of Maitland-Newcastle, is the means by which we can collectively acknowledge the dreadful history of our past and embracing the call to conversion of heart and mind that we are called to in light of our history and that is demanded by the light of our faith.
As a faith community, it is important for all of us to recognise that this day responds to a deep need in some of our brothers and sisters. As members of the community of Jesus' disciples - irrespective of our affiliation with the worshipping community - we stand together, with survivors, against all forms of abuse and for cultural change that will promote fullness of life for all. As the saying goes, 'It takes a village . . .'. We need every glimmer of light if together if we hope to Shine the light of Christ into this dark space: a light of solidarity, a light of prayer, a light of courage and commitment to change, a light of healing and hope.
Sacred Heart Cathedral plays a special role in the diocesan keeping of Perpetual Day of Remembrance Sunday because of its role as the Cathedral of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. In addition to the celebration of Mass in the Cathedral, we will also host a Shine the Light of Christ Vigil on the evening of Saturday 11 September 2021. How we acknowledge Perpetual Day of Remembrance Sunday in 2021 will be dependant upon what COVID-19 restrictions are in place at the time; if we are unable to gather in person in the Cathedral, both the Mass and the Vigil will be live-streamed on the Cathedral's YouTube channel.
Resources for use by individuals and family who may wish to mark Perpetual Day of Remembrance Sunday at home can be found here.