We believe that God created all human beings in His image. Therefore, we believe that human life is sacred from conception to its natural end; that we must honor the physical and spiritual needs of all people; following Christ’s example, we believe that every person should be treated with love, dignity and respect. (Psalm 139:13; Isaiah 49:1; Jeremiah 1:5; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 12: 20-21; Galatians 6:10) God is Love and He loves all people. It is His desire to reach out to those who are poor, oppressed, widowed or orphaned, and to heal the broken hearted. (Psalm 68:5-6; 1 John 4:16)

About The Bible:

The Bible is God’s word to all men. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living.

Because it is inspired by God, it is truth without any mixture of error in all matters of salvation. (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13’ Psalm 119: 105, 160, 12-6; Proverbs 30:5)

About Baptism:

Baptism draws us into the Body of Christ, healing the rift of Original Sin. Baptism does not save you, the life death and resurrection of Jesus Christ saves us. In Baptism, you show the world that you accept God’s salvation and are prepared to be witness to Jesus Christ in the world.

Baptism is a biblical command and demonstrates your love and obedience to Christ. (Colossians 2: 12; Acts 2:41; Ephesians 2: 8-9; Matthew 28: 19-20)

Baptism information sessions are held on the first Tuesday of the month, at St Mary MacKillop Church Bannockburn. Please contact the Parish office for more information

About Communion:

Holy Communion, the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper, during which we receive communion, is an ordinance given to all believers by Jesus Christ to remember his sacrifice for us and to symbolize the new covenant. The elements of bread and wine truly become the body and blood of Jesus Christ.

In celebrating the Eucharist (Greek for thanksgiving), we remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us, but also much more. Jesus said ‘take and eat this IS my body.’ ‘Take and drink this IS my blood.’ In doing so he offered us His very self for the nourishment of our spiritual selves, our faith, our …….Jesus Christ ……….’

The Eucharist is also a testament of a believer’s faith in the atoning work of the cross. (Matthew 26: 26-30; Mark 14: 22-26; Luke 22: 19, 20; 1 Corinthians 11: 23-29)

Confirmation: Growth is vital to human life; the body and mind must grow to stay alive. Catholics believe that the soul also needs to grow to maturity in the life of grace, just as the human body must grow through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Catholics believe the Sacrament of Confirmation is the supernatural equivalent of the growth

process on the natural level. It builds on what was begun in Baptism and what was nourished in Holy Eucharist. It completes the process of initiation into the Christian community, and it matures the soul for the

work ahead.

Sacramental Program:

The Parish’s Sacramental Program is for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Sessions are held at St Mary MacKillop Church Bannockburn. If your child does not attend St Mary MacKillop Catholic School and you wish for your child to do one of these Sacraments, they need to be enrolled. Each of the sacraments involves preparation and planning, please contact the Parish , Wednesday or Friday, or call Fr Joseph .

• Baptism-Reconciliation-1st Eucharist-Confirmation
• Marriage/Weddings call Fr Joseph. A preparation program is required.
• Funerals-by arrangement with Fr Joseph.

R.C.I.A.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the formation journey in which adults become full participating members of the Catholic Church. Participants, known as Catechumens, go through a series of sessions studying the Gospel, nurturing their relationship with God, becoming familiar with the Catholic teachings and practices, professing their faith in Jesus Christ and the Church, and receiving the Sacraments of Initiation:

Baptism, Communion and Confirmation.

An invitation is extended to all who wish to become members of the Catholic faith. Reaching out to a priest for guidance is a helpful first step. This time is spent searching, asking, praying, and learning if this is something you wish to pursue.

Conversation About Catholics:

If you are looking for a simple program to connect people with the Catholic Faith and to provide answers to some of the questions you have, then Conversations About Catholics is for you. Why do you bob down before you go into your seat? Why do you bow your head when going for Communion? I’m sure you have a 101 questions to ask, so please come along. This is usually four 1 hour sessions finishing with light refreshments.

Childrens Liturgy:

Is held at St Mary MacKillop Church Bannockburn most Sundays during the 11.00am Mass. This is an opportunity for the children to learn about the gospel in a fun and welcoming environment, and for parents to relax and connect with their faith during Mass. This is for children up to the age of 12 and children under 4 are welcome with a grown up.