Parishes and Catholic Schools Across the Territory Lead the Charge in World Mission Support: A Powerful Partnership with Catholic Mission for Mongolia
As the Northern Territory commemorates World Mission Sunday on October 20, a spirit of generosity and faith has come alive across the Diocese of Darwin. This year’s theme, “Go and invite everyone to the banquet,” is not only a call to action but a powerful message of inclusivity and compassion that resonates deeply within local communities.
Bishop Charles Gauci, Bishop of the Northern Territory, emphasised the crucial role Catholic Mission plays in sustaining many of the parishes across the Northern Territory, noting that “we rely so much on the subsidies and help that they give us.”
A key focus of this year’s Mission Month is the Diocese of Darwin’s support for the vulnerable communities in Mongolia. Contributions from the Northern Territory are helping to sustain the House of Mercy and the Caring Centre, which offer children safe homes and access to education. In doing so, the faithful of the Diocese are extending the invitation to “the banquet” beyond borders, sharing hope and love with some of the world’s most isolated communities.
In a heartening display of unity and compassion, Catholic schools across the Northern Territory came together in October in support of World Mission, spearheading efforts to raise funds and prayers for underprivileged children in Mongolia. Through a diverse range of activities—from cake stalls and zooper dooper sales to lively soccer tournaments—students, teachers, and their families have embraced the spirit of giving, highlighting the essential values of Catholic social teaching.
Mission Week unfolded with students leading mission masses and liturgies, setting a reflective and spiritual tone for the month. The event demonstrated not only the strength of their faith but their leadership in engaging peers in the cause. Schools organised creative initiatives, including a “crazy socks and crocs day,” alongside carnivals brimming with handmade games and competitions. These initiatives have not only drawn the community closer but also showcased the innovative ways in which young minds are working to make a difference.
Sr Jessika Trieu, speaking on behalf of Catholic Mission, extended her deep gratitude for the support. “The prayers, effort, and enthusiasm of the Catholic Education schools, families, and parishes praying the living rosary for peace and world mission throughout the Territory have been remarkable,” she said. “From fundraising efforts to moments of shared reflection, the schools have demonstrated a true spirit of solidarity with the children in Mongolia, whose lives will be touched by these efforts.”
Perhaps one of the most poignant initiatives was the creation of soccer balls from recycled materials—symbolic of the hope and resilience of the communities they aim to support. This hands-on approach fostered a tangible connection between the students and the children in need, emphasising that even small actions can bring about significant change.
Catholic Mission’s Socktober faith formation empowers students in missionary participations to help other children with all proceeds directed to a Caring Centre in Mongolia. Sr Jessika’s words echoed this sentiment: “Together, let us make Jesus known and loved, through every prayer and act of kindness.”
In October, Catholic schools in the NT have not only nurtured their students’ faith but have also instilled a lasting commitment to social justice, bridging the gap between classrooms in Australia and care centres across the globe.
Sr. Jessika extends her heartfelt gratitude to her Canossian Sisters, Bishop Charles, Diocesan staff, clergy, Catholic Education Director Paul Greaves, school executives, and the Catholic Mission team for their invaluable support in fostering collaborative relationships between Catholic Mission, parishes, and schools. She is grateful to God for all these graces.