Perpetual Day of Remembrance was commemorated on Sunday, 14 September 2025. 

This day is a public acknowledgement of the deep harm caused by the Church in the past, particularly the pain and suffering endured by survivors of abuse, their families, and those who have been lost. It is an occasion to recommit ourselves to remembering what happened so that we do not allow those things to be repeated. 

Perpetual Day of Remembrance is an opportunity for our whole faith community to come together in prayer and remembrance – honouring survivors, acknowledging the wrongs of the past, and renewing our commitment to building a Church that is safe and life-giving for all.  

Throughout September, the occasion has been marked in a variety of ways: 

• Parishes across the Diocese commemorated this day through liturgy on Sunday 14 September. 

• On Monday 15 September staff at Newcastle West gathered in prayer.

• The Diocese also lit Sacred Heart Cathedral in Newcastle West in purple from Thursday, 11 September until Wednesday, 17 September to create a visible sign of solidarity and remembrance for all who have been impacted. 

Healing and Support-Zimmerman Service is inviting those impacted by child sexual abuse within the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle to honour survivors, their loved ones and those who have been lost. Visitors are welcome to come and light a candle, contribute to some artwork, listen to ‘The Innocents’ commissioned Day of Remembrance music, chat, have something to eat and/or have a cuppa with our team. Details: Thursday 18 September 2025 2pm to 4pm 5 Selma St, Newcastle West. A private booking can also be made via  [email protected]