Weekly Notices

For the week of Aug 23 2026
Download All Images

CATHEDRAL OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT CAMPAIGN 

HOW CAN YOU HELP?
More than 130 years ago, with Bishop John Grimes SM as their shepherd, the people of this Diocese were generous. Now it is our turn. We build not for ourselves alone, but for those that will come after us. We are asking for sacrificial pledges - gifts paid over five years that allow you to make a lasting impact without financial strain. Every contribution, no matter the size, becomes part of this sacred undertaking.
Together, through prayer, sacrifice and generosity, we can build a Cathedral that will honour God and serve His people for generations.

Visit blessedsacrament.nz to make a donation.

Blessedsacrament nz
Copied

DIOCESAN WOMEN’S RETREAT

Registrations are open for our next Diocesan Women’s retreat on 

Sat, 5 Sep at 9.00am–3.00pm

The theme is: Seek His Face, and will be led by the Dominican Sisters.
To register and find out more visit our website.

Copied

Diocesan Prayer Conference 
All are welcome to our 2026 Diocesan One-Day Prayer Conference to be held on Sat, 12 Sep in Timaru. Registrations are open! For more info visit https://cdoc.nz/news-events/pr... or contact Matt O’Connell on moconnell@cdoc.nz or 366-9869

Diocesan Prayer Conference 2026 Social Media Tile
Diocesan Prayer Conference Poster
Copied

CATHOLIC BUSINESS NETWORK EVENT

We are excited to invite you to our next CBN event, ‘From Amberley to America’ with Rosemary Banks.

Date: Thurs, 24 Sep

Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Venue: Terrace & Fairway Room, Russley Golf Club,

Join us for a thought provoking evening meeting with Rosemary Banks. After more than four decades as a New Zealand diplomat Rosemary will reflect on New Zealand’s place in a rapidly changing world and the way other countries see us. Having twice served as ambassador to the United States to both Republican and Democrat administrations she will discuss the way America’s view of its global role is changing and what this means for New Zealand.

To register and for more information visit cbn.nz

CBN Sept 2026 Social Media Tile
Ad CBN Sept 2026 I149
CBN Sept 2026 Poster
Copied

International Eucharistic Congress

In 2028 Sydney will host the 54th International Eucharistic Congress (IEC). These conferences are held every 4 years and the purpose is “to make ever better known, loved and served, Our Lord Jesus Christ in his Eucharistic Mystery, center of the life of the Church and of its mission for the salvation of the world”. This is a great opportunity for renewal in this part of the world. The event consists of a week of activities, talks, events, processions culminating in a final Mass attended by hundreds of thousands of people, hopefully celebrated by Pope Leo IV.

There will be an information night on Wed, 9 Sep to learn more about this event. Sr Anastasia Reeves OP from the Sydney Diocesan Parish Renewal Office will speak about the IEC and how individuals and parishes can get involved. The info night will be held at Nazareth House beginning at 7.00pm with adoration in the chapel followed by the presentation in the Hall. For more information and to RSVP please contact Matt O’Connell on moconnell@cdoc.nz or 0275369407

Copied

Thinking about a Vocation to the Priesthood or Religious Life?

The Good Shepherd knows his sheep and lays down his life for them. Are you being called to Shepherd others as a Priest or Religious? Pope Leo XIV encourages all young people to “listen to the voice of the Lord who invites you to a full and fruitful life, calling you to put your talents to use”. “In coming to know the Lord … you will ‘discover your vocation’, which is an immeasurable gift for the Church and for those who receive it with joy”. Contact the Vocations Director, Fr Monty Bamford on frmonty@cathedralparish.nz or the Vocations Coordinator, Matt O’Connell on 366-9869 or moconnell@cdoc.nz if you want more information or to talk about a possible vocation.

Copied

World Youth Day applications have opened! Young Adults, now is the time to move for the opportunity of a lifetime - joining with Catholics from all over the Diocese, the motu and the world for an incredible experience. All the information is at www.cyt.org.nz/worldyouthday with applications closing at the end of September.

For enquiries, please contact mcurrie@cdoc.nz

WYD27 Applications Open
Copied

SISTER EVELEEN RETREAT HOUSE

You are warmly invited to join us for one of our Retreats.

Sister Eveleen Retreat House, Sumner, 6 Whitewash Head.

For retreat info and to register follow this link.

Copied

Replenish Country Cottage, Retreat and Venue

Looking for a peaceful space to spend time with God or a beautiful venue for your next event?

Nestled at the foot of Mt Thomas Suitable for personal retreats, private functions, and wedding receptions. Replenish is 20 mins from Rangiora.

Enquiries to Cameron Surrey 022 109 2428

replenishretreat.co.nz

Copied

CATHOLIC ENQUIRY CENTRE

Exploring faith or returning to Church? You’re always welcome — find out more at www.catholicdiscovery.nz

CEC Advert
3
Copied

Mass in Te Reo Māori

Mass will be celebrated in te reo Māori at St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral at the following times:

First Sunday of the month — 12:30 pm, Blessed Sacrament Chapel, followed by a cup of tea.

Second Sunday of the month — 12:30 pm, Blessed Sacrament Chapel

Third Sunday of the month — 12:30 pm, Blessed Sacrament Chapel

Fourth Sunday of the month — 6:00 pm, Nave (Parish Mass)

Fifth Sunday (when applicable) — 12:30 pm, Blessed Sacrament Chapel

Booklets provided. All welcome.

Copied

St John Paul II Centre Race Night 2026

Join 200+ people from across the Diocese for a lively night at the trots — harness racing, a 2-course dinner, and our famous Priest Punter of the Year competition. Every ticket goes toward our work of helping marriages and families to flourish across the Christchurch Diocese.

Fri, 28 Aug, Addington Raceway.

Book at jp2.org.nz/racenight

JPII 2026 Race Night Poster
Copied

ST JOSEPH’S SCHOOL NEW PLYMOUTH

Past students, staff and families are invited to join St Joseph’s School, New Plymouth in their centenary celebration on Oct 23-25, 2026.

Register your interest here and follow the event Facebook page.

Copied

Inner City Catholic Women’s League (CWL)

Faith • Service • Fellowship

Inner City CWL has been part of our community for 8 years. We are a small group of women who are caring supportive and enjoy our faith, friendship and a little fun along the way.

We meet at 7:00pm on the second Wednesday of each month at St Mary’s Pro-cathedral.

May is the month of Mary and CWL Promotion Month - a perfect time to come and see what we are about. We warmly welcome new members to join us. If you would like to connect with like-minded women and be part of a welcoming community, please come along for a visit - you would be most welcome.

For more information, contact Bonny

bonbazstephens@gmail.com

021 178 2552

Copied

Ten Decades of St. Peter’s

Why did the Monsignor burn a parishioner’s clothes pegs? What were Ember Days? Why did St. Peter’s School principal fear turning into Fisher Ave.? How did the Community “canonise” the parish priest? All the answers are in a new, 100 page, hard cover book entitled “Ten Decades of St. Peter’s Catholic Community Beckenham 1927-2027”. Copies available for a $25 donation to St. Vincent de Paul (Beckenham). Contact svdpbeckenham@gmail.com

Copied

Holiday in the Hurunui

Two holiday homes are available to rent from the Hurunui parish. Hamner $120/night 2brm; Hawarden $80/night 1 brm. Booking enquiries to catholichurunui@gmail.com

Copied

Wednesdays at One

All invited to a weekly feast of music at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral. View the latest schedule on our website.

Copied

160 YEAR CELEBRATION of ST PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH - ROSS

All are warmly invited to join the celebration of 160 years of faith, fellowship and community at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ross.

Date: Sat, Oct 24

Registration is $50 per person.

Email info@rossgoldtown.org to for more information and to register.

Copied

ST AUGUSTINE’S BOOKSHOP

Come and visit our cosy second-hand bookshop for your Catholic winter spiritual reading. We would love to see you enjoy our great selection of books.

Hours: Wed - Sat, 11.00am - 2.00pm

Location: Christ the King Centre, 90 Greers Rd

Donations of Catholic books are welcomed

Contact Dan Martin on 022 175 1789 for more information.

Copied

UPCOMING SAFEGUARDING WORKSHOPS

Click here or scan QR Code for more information.

Safeguarding Workshops
Copied

INFORM

The latest issue of Inform is available in parishes and online at cdoc.nz/inform

Copied

CATHOLIC BED & BREAKFAST

Enjoy catholic hospitality in New Zealand and Australia, $50 per night for one guest, each additional guest pays $30, includes continental breakfast. A great way to meet and enjoy the company of other Catholics. To become a host or purchase a book with details of hosts, please contact Marie Anderson at marie.ian@xtra.co.nz.

Copied

AI & Humanity Conference

28-29 August 2026

All are welcome to attend a one-and-a-half-day public gathering designed to inform, equip and inspire a general audience about Artificial Intelligence, its rapid developments, its practical applications, and its deeper implications for our lives, communities and humanity itself. The conference is hosted by Cashmere Presbyterian Church. For more details and to book, go to events.humanitix.com/ai-and-humanity-conference

AI Conference Poster Final
Copied

Dove Catholic Fellowship for Women

Dove is delighted to announce the launch of Dovecotes for Women NZ, a new initiative designed to support women in parish communities throughout New Zealand.

Dovecotes are small parish-based groups where women from all walks of life can come together in friendship, prayer, and faith. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, these groups offer a welcoming space for women to bond, encourage one another, and grow more deeply in their relationship with God. For more information contact Gloria Stafford: dovenational.leader@gmail.com or Check out the website: www.dove.org.nz

Copied

Charis New Zealand - SAVE THE DATE!

You are warmly invited to EXALT: Christ the King.

This is a National Worship Event being held in Wellington on Sat, 21 Nov, from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

This special day is being hosted by Current of Grace, Wellington and will bring people together from across New Zealand for Holy Mass, Worship, Prayer, Teaching, and Fellowship as we honour Christ our King and pray for our Nation.

More information to come!

Copied

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – Level 1 Part 1 Formation

The St Carlo Acutis Atrium will host Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Level 1 Part 1 Formation from 5–11 Oct. This week‑long training is ideal for anyone wishing to develop skills as a catechist, as well as parents seeking support in nurturing their child’s faith at home.

For more information, please contact Anna Abraham at chch.childrens.atrium@gmail.com. Register here.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Montessori‑based approach to children’s faith formation that helps them encounter God through Scripture and the liturgy. It offers a peaceful, hands‑on environment where children grow in prayer, wonder, and a deep relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

Atrium Logo
Atrium Formation Part 1 QR Code
Copied

What are the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises? And what is Spiritual Direction?

Come along to an information evening to hear from Kirsten Challies and Colin Renouf, two spiritual directors in our Diocese, about these tools that can enable a deepening of your journey of faith. 7.00pm in the Assisi Lounge at the Cathedral Parish,

373 Manchester St, on Thurs, 27 Aug.

All Welcome. Questions? contact Kirsten at kchallies@cathedralparish.nz

Copied

JESUS YOUTH MEET UP

Jesus Youth Christchurch is hosting a Meet Up on Wed, 2 Sep, from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at St. Teresa Church Hall, 8 Puriri Street, Riccarton.

The event offers young adults an opportunity to grow in faith, connect with others, and build friendships in a welcoming community. Activities include prayer and worship, games, music, entertainment, food, refreshments, and social time.

Register here or scan the QR code .

IMG 20260811 WA0003
Copied

ST JOHN PAUL II SEVEN SORROWS ROSARY GROUP AND ADORATION

SUPPORTING CATHOLICS THROUGH GRIEF:

Mon, 24 Aug 7.30pm-8,30pm

St Theresa’s Church, 8 Puriri Street, Riccarton

Copied

CBS Choir & Orchestra

Heavenly Haydn, Salve Regina, Symphony 98

Heiligmesse. Leader: Natalia M. Lomeiko

DATE: Sun, 6 Sep TIME: 2.00pm

VENUE: Catholic Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester St

Programme Admission $30 & $25

Copied

Vinnies Youth Holiday Programme

Looking for something meaningful and fun to do these school holidays?

WHEN: 28 Sep- 2 Oct

WHERE: Vinnies Manchester St

WHO: Year 6 - 9

Come along to the Vinnies Youth Holiday Programme and spend a few days making new friends, building your confidence, developing leadership skills, and putting your faith into action.

This programme is a chance to connect, have fun, serve others, and make a difference in our community. Whether you’re already involved with Vinnies or completely new, you’re welcome!

Spaces will be limited, so get in early and secure a spot. Register here or contact

cyrene@svdpcanterbury.nz

Vinnies Youth Holiday Program 2026 4
Copied

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S MOVEMENT

Invites you to our annual RETREAT DAY

led by Linda Polaschek.

THEME: Prayer in everyday life

During our time together we will share our experience of how we relate to the Divine, our questions and challenges. Some teaching on Christian Meditation will lead us into times of silent prayer together.

Sat, 19 Sep

9.30 am – 4.00 pm

at MARY POTTER COMMUNITY CENTRE

442 Durham Street North. Christchurch.

Cost $60 includes Morning tea and lunch.

Helen Warren : helenterry9@outlook.com;

Phone: 021 133 5132 or (03) 382 2302

Copied


CATHOLIC DEVELOPMENT FUND (CDF)

If you’re interested in planning ahead and saving for peace of mind, we warmly invite you to get in touch for a private, no-obligation conversation about funeral planning.

CDF – Invest in Good | cdf@cdoc.nz | 03 366 9869

Click here for flyer

HOLIDAY HOUSE FOR RENT

The Catholic Outdoor Club has a Holiday House available in Arthur’s Pass, on Sunshine Tce (behind the Police Station). The house has 3 bunk rooms to accommodate 18 people. It has a good lounge and kitchen. Ideal for an economical family holiday in the mountains. Cost from $90 a night. Bookings may be made on the website here.



HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY CONTACTS

Most hospitals no longer provide names of Catholic patients to our chaplains.

If there is someone from your family going to hospital please either advise the chaplain or your parish office or let the nurses know that you would like to see the Catholic Chaplain/Priest on call

Christchurch Hospital: John Dooley – 021 702 378

Burwood Hospital: Jane Dick - 021 572 480

Hillmorton Hospital: Joan Hough - 021 501 683

Nurse Maude Hospice: Christchurch North Parish - 03 359 1438

St George’s Hospital: Christchurch North Parish - 03 359 1438

Southern Cross: Cathedral Parish - 379 1068



PRAYING FOR VOCATIONS AND PRIESTS ON THURSDAYS

As in the past, the diocesan family dedicates Thursdays to pray for priests and vocations to the priesthood. You might like to come to Mass on Thursdays, if possible, but all are invited to pray for this intention using a prayer for vocations written by Pope Francis. Prayer cards are available at the back of your church or online at the Diocesan website. For more information contact the Vocations Coordinator Matt O’Connell on 366-9869 or moconnell@cdoc.nz


SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Facebook

Catholic Diocese of Christchurch - https://www.facebook.com/ChchCatholic

NZ Catholic Bishop's Conference - https://www.facebook.com/CatholicNZ/

Instagram

Catholic Diocese of Christchurch - @catholicdioceseofchristchurch

NZ Catholic Bishop's Conference - @nzcatholicbishops


CATHOLIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

What’s happening in the Catholic Church in New Zealand? What are the big stories affecting people of faith in our country? Get Catholic headlines delivered to your inbox each Tuesday and Friday. Sign up today at https://cathnewsnz.com/