OUR STORY

The St Joseph’s Neutral Bay Catholic Community is a thriving community of faith, born out of the personal charisma of Jesuit Priest Fr Paul Coleman sj who, over almost 50 years, built a series of vibrant Catholic Christian communities. These communities espoused and practised the goals and spiritual aspirations of Vatican II in recognising and valuing the gifts of individuals and making the church more accessible and welcoming to “all sorts”.

Together Fr Linder, [Parish Priest of Sydney Harbour North Catholic Parishes, of which St Joseph’s Neutral Bay is part], and Fr Paul renewed the 9.30 Sunday mass, and our community continues Father Paul’s legacy with a strong focus on the warmth of our welcome and hospitality and an accessible and meaningful liturgy. Our liturgy is supported and enhanced by our music and musicians, readers and other liturgical roles within an atmosphere of social informality which is a hallmark of our Christ-centred and joyful community.

We are sustained by a strong and enthusiastic group of women and men who volunteer to provide the necessary skills and good will for the functioning of a vibrant Christian community. This includes a diligent oversight in the administration of all activities. Our lay leaders take responsibility for the material, emotional and strategic workings of the community. Spiritual faith-based guidance and challenge, together with pastoral support is led by Clare Koch rsj as our Community Animator.

This Community is privileged and grateful to be further enhanced by the presence of Monsignor Tony Doherty who provides spiritual and sacramental blessings.

Over the years substantial support has been afforded to St Vincent de Paul’s areas of need, to the Cana Community for the Homeless, and recently to our drought-stricken friends of St Joseph’s at Dunedoo.

To be present for others is our challenge and we are open to respond when that need arises. The authenticity of who we are as a community is in our connection with each other, and from this strength we provide ‘outreach’ to current needs.

We invite you to explore more about our faith community on this website, however, the best way to find out more is to come and visit us at St Joseph’s at 9.30am Sunday. We look forward to having the opportunity to welcome you too.