Dear Brothers and Sisters

At the news of Pope Francis’ death, we are left with an inner emptiness. The death is not unexpected. In fact, there is a sadness and a joy. After much suffering he has gone to God. What remains for us is a memory of a great man, a wonderful shepherd. Emptiness invites us to ponder Francis the man and what he has done.

Pope Francis impressed us with his simple humility, openness to God and the people of our world. Listening deeply, he was able to hear with his heart and see Jesus in others. He did not judge, rather he loved by touching hearts.

He did much for world peace and the care of the abandoned and suffering. He reached out to people regardless of their religious belief. In particular, he worked for Christian unity. He also led the way in dialogue with Jews and Muslims.

Finally, he was a man of prayer. It is our turn to pray for him.

Eternal rest grant unto him and let perpetual light shine upon him.

Bishop Greg Homeming OCD

Bishop Greg’s Easter Message 2025

Dear Brothers and Sisters

This year as we approach the great Feast of Easter we cannot ignore natural disasters and worrying international problems. Lismore Diocese had floods and heavy winds courtesy of Cyclone Alfred, but luckily survived. Despite our prayers, peace is not a reality in our world, and the international economic order is being undermined. Poverty and displacement are everywhere.

Today I read the section of Genesis in which Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers. This horrible offence against family and love proves to be the salvation of the sons of Jacob who find safety and food in Egypt. From this Moses emerges as the leader of Israel who, after the Passover, takes the Jewish people to the frontier of Israel.

Easter reminds us that in spite of darkness and seeming impossibility, God is greater and can bring out much good from human despair and negative experience. The Resurrection crowns the despondency following the death of Jesus. We are Easter people who daily look for experiences of resurrection. If we look beyond ourselves to the abundant goodness which surrounds us, we shall see the Risen Christ.

With my prayers and Easter wishes,

Bishop Greg Homeming OCD

Christmas Message 2024

“The people that walked in darkness has seen a great light!”

Christmas, a festival full of nostalgia. We sing for peace, yet don’t know how to find it. We wish each other happiness, yet it seems more challenging to be happy.  We buy each other presents, yet what we need is loving-affection. We sing to a child who is God, yet the child in our hearts may be lost.

Yes, it’s true. Yet, nostalgia allows us to discover that our natural-desires go far beyond what we may possess or enjoy.

Happy birthday Jesus, you show us your Light!

Fr David Gilbey, Pastor
Holy Spirit Catholic Parish
St Finbarr’s-Byron Bay / St Kevin’s Bangalow.