Faith and Light

The Faith & Light Committee, under the guidance of Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, was re-launched in June 2025. The Committee is a dedicated team of volunteers committed to supporting individuals of all ages with special needs or disabilities, together with their families and carers. Through social and pastoral activities rooted in Christian love, compassion, and inclusion, the Committee seeks to foster a welcoming and supportive community where all are valued and embraced.

At the heart of the Committee’s work is a desire to bring joy to others through acts of kindness and love, ensuring that every individual feels respected, valued, seen, heard, and supported within the life of the parish. The Committee is committed to breaking down the barriers of isolation and judgement by creating a community where individuals can freely express themselves, be accepted as they are, and know that they matter. This is achieved through close collaboration with parents and carers, guided by open communication, attentive listening, and a genuine commitment to understanding their needs and aspirations.

Grounded in friendship, faith, and fellowship, the Committee strives to build meaningful relationships with individuals living with special needs or disabilities while nurturing a deeper relationship with Christ and His Church. Through inclusive social activities and opportunities for community participation, the Committee seeks to share the love and light of Christ and Our Lady, fostering joy, belonging, dignity, and spiritual growth. In doing so, it celebrates the unique gifts of every person and helps build a community where everyone has a place to belong.

Since its re-launch in June 2025, the Committee has been privileged to bring people together through a variety of social activities, including dinners, karaoke nights, movie nights, exercise sessions, Christmas and Easter celebrations, bowling outings, and many other community events. One of the highlights of the year was celebrating Faith and Light International Day at St Charbel’s Monastery in Punchbowl. Families travelled together by bus and enjoyed a day of fellowship, food, music, dancing, and the opportunity to connect with other families within the wider Faith and Light community. It was a memorable and uplifting experience for all involved.

The introduction of the Accessible Mass in September 2025 has also been a significant milestone and a source of great support for many families. Held every Sunday at 4:15 pm in St Maroun’s Room within the Our Lady of Lebanon Youth Centre, this Mass is specifically designed for individuals with special needs or disabilities and their families and carers. The initiative allows parents and carers to participate fully in the Mass while individuals can engage with toys, sensory activities, and colouring resources in a comfortable and welcoming environment. The growing attendance each month reflects the importance of this ministry and the positive impact it continues to have on families within the parish.

The Faith & Light Committee also actively supports parish life through its involvement in fundraising and community events, including the Feast of the Assumption celebrations, the parish Christmas party, and the Pre-Lenten Bacon and Eggs Breakfast. Looking ahead, the Committee remains committed to expanding its outreach, raising awareness through its social media platforms, exploring fundraising and sponsorship opportunities, and continuing to create meaningful experiences that bring happiness, connection, and a sense of belonging to all involved.

The Committee is deeply grateful to its chaplains, Fr Michael and Fr Danny, as well as Subdeacon Charbel and Coordinator Rita, for their leadership, dedication, encouragement, and ongoing support. Their guidance continues to inspire the Committee in its mission to achieve the best possible outcomes for individuals and families within the community.