St. Joseph's
COUNCIL
Our parish is a family. Let us all be part of this family and share our gifts with each other so that our parish becomes the family of God, holy and united in love and service. The Council of St Joseph’s is here to help us in this mission.
​
We strive to strengthen bonds through communal fellowship—such as shared meals, coffee mornings, and worship—while reconnecting those who feel isolated. By empowering parishioners to share their gifts, we foster a culture of mutual care, inclusivity, and Gospel-cantered action, ensuring no one journeys alone.
​
To build a vibrant, holy family where every member—young and old, diverse in culture and background—is nourished by shared prayer, service, and fellowship.
The Ten Missions of St. Joseph’s Council:
Building Community at Holy Cross Parish
St. Joseph’s Council fulfils its mission through these ten areas of focus. Each mission reflects our commitment to living the Gospel through service, fellowship and prayer.
1. Mission: Finding the Lost Sheep
“Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep.” (Luke 15:6)
To reconnect with parishioners who feel disconnected, inviting them to coffee mornings, cultural events and parish activities. Community coordinators will help identify and reach out to those in need of spiritual or pastoral care.
2. Mission: Christmas Fare International Days, Coffee Mornings and so on
“Share your bread with the hungry and open your house to the needy.” (Isaiah 58:7)
To host weekly coffee gatherings after Sunday 9:00am and 11:30am Masses. Organise annual Christmas fairs, and International Days to foster fellowship and welcome all, including non-practising parishioners.
3. Mission: Pilgrimages and Walks
“Walk in the way of the Lord.” (Psalm 128:1)
To arrange pilgrimages and group walks for spiritual reflection, community bonding and appreciation of God’s creation. These events will deepen faith and strengthen parish relationships.
4. Mission: Sick Visits and Elderly Care
“I was ill and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:36)
To coordinate regular visits to the sick and housebound, supported by Council members and volunteers. Ensure the elderly feel valued and connected to parish life through practical help and companionship.
5. Mission: Cultural Masses and Choirs
“Every nation, tribe and tongue shall glorify God.” (Revelation 7:9)
To celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity through special Masses, integrating choirs and traditions from different communities. Encourage cultural fellowships to share their feast days and blessings with the parish.
6. Mission: Basic Christian Communities and Linguistic Fellowships
“Where two or three gather in my name, I am with them.” (Matthew 18:20)
To form small faith groups (10+ families each) for Scripture sharing, prayer and mutual support. Promote linguistic fellowships to unite parishioners across cultures, with a yearly planner to coordinate events.
7. Mission: Praise and Worship
“Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song.” (Psalm 95:2)
To organise gatherings for sung worship, prayer and biblical reflection, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s Word and Christian values.
8. Mission: Bereavement Support
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
To establish a Bereavement Support Group, guided by the Council’s bereavement officer, offering care for those grieving the loss of loved ones, relationships or cherished possessions.
9. Mission: Youth Groups, World Youth Day and Youth Choir
“Let no one despise your youth, but set an example in speech and conduct.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
To launch a Youth Choir, form youth groups and prepare for World Youth Day participation. Create spaces for young people to grow in faith, leadership and service.
10. Mission: SVP and Food Bank
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have.” (Hebrews 13:16)
To revitalise the St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) by recruiting active members and “Friends of SVP” supporters. Expand outreach through a parish food bank, coordinating donations and assistance via a WhatsApp group.
​
A Call to Serve
These missions rely on the generosity of volunteers. To join St. Joseph’s Council in any of these areas—whether through youth ministry, bereavement support, cultural events or visiting the sick—please contact the Parish Office or speak to a Council member.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another.” (1 Peter 4:10)