40th Anniversary of Saint John Paul II’s Historic Alice Springs Address
As we light the Candle of Hope on the First Sunday of Advent, join us as we commemorate a significant moment in the life of the Church in Australia: Saint John Paul II's historic Alice Springs address of 29 November 1986.
Email Mission & Evangelisation for any enquiries
Upcoming Events
Little Friars and Little Nuns Parish Mission
2 Nov 26 - 12 Nov 26
LGBTIQ+ Liturgy 2026
6 Nov 26🕯️”Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors to Christ.”
On the First Sunday of Advent, join us as we commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Saint John Paul II’s historic meeting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples at Blatherskite Park, Alice Springs, on 29 November 1986. His message of dignity, respect, hope and reconciliation remains a powerful inspiration for the Church in Australia today.
📅 Sunday 29 November 2026
⏰ 9:30 am
📍 Sacred Heart Cathedral, Newcastle
⛪ Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael Kennedy
As we light the First Advent Candle, the Candle of Hope 🕯️, we reflect on the hope that Saint John Paul II shared forty years ago: a vision of a Church enriched by the cultures, wisdom, and faith of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. This Mass will include:
🔥 Smoking Ceremony
🖤 Traditional Welcome by an Elder
💛 Cultural Dance and Song
❤️ Yidaki (Didgeridoo) Players
🙏 Prayer and Reflection inspired by Saint John Paul II’s message of hope and reconciliation
☕🍰 Morning Tea will follow on the grass grounds adjacent to the Toohey Room (weather permitting).
All are warmly invited to this special Mass, celebrating faith, culture, hope and unity as we honour the enduring legacy of Saint Pope John Paul II. May the Spirit who guided Saint John Paul II to Alice Springs in 1986 continue to guide us today, as we journey together in faith and hope.
Saint John Paul II, pray for us.
To RSVP your attendance or dietary requirements for Morning Tea, or for general enquiries about this Mass, please email Mission & Evangelisation.
Related Events
View all Events
28 Nov 26
6 Dec 26
4 Nov 26
Diocesan Resource Centre - Cnr Parry & Tudor Street Newcastle West