Catherine McAuley students serving soup at the Parramatta Homelessness Memorial Service.
Catherine McAuley students attended the St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta Homelessness Memorial Service.
A number of Catherine McAuley students represented the school at the Parramatta Homelessness Memorial Service held at St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta on Friday, 8th August 2025.
The students have written a report below:
On Friday evening, we had the privilege to attend the Parramatta Homelessness Memorial Service, an event that brought together people from all areas to honour those who have died while experiencing homelessness.
We served soup, participated in a short liturgy, and lit candles - each flame representing a life that mattered and a story that deserved to be remembered. Standing with members of the community, we were reminded of the Mercy values of justice, hospitality and courage, which call us to recognise the dignity of every person.
It was humbling to witness how such a simple act as lighting a candle could carry so much meaning, transforming darkness into a collective expression of hope. The faces of those gathered reflected a shared understanding: that homelessness is not just an issue of shelter, but of justice and empathy. This evening reminded us that mercy is not simply a value to be spoken about, but a way of being present for others in their vulnerability.
Remembering those who died.
The service was more than a commemoration, it was a call to action. These moments urged us to look beyond the statistics and see the humanity that binds us together. By being present, we not only honoured those who had passed, but also made a quiet promise to continue working for a more just and compassionate society.
The mercy value of justice compels us to address the systems and attitudes that allow homelessness to persist. In the end, the service reminded us that a community is only whole when all its members are seen, valued and supported. Walking away, we carried with us the conviction that even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple outward and create change.
Welcome to Country.
Catherine McAuley Students
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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