After Jesus’ death and resurrection, stories and memories of him circulated by word of mouth. Jesus’ disciples, including Paul and his companions traveled and founded new communities.

The first five books of the Bible are called the Torah by Jewish people who consider these the most sacred of all texts. Christians refer to these books as the Pentateuch (Gk ‘Five scrolls’).

The Bible is a collection of books, written through centuries, by different individuals and groups, each with a particular community in mind. Every book reflects the social and cultural circumstances and theological understandings of the time.

Because of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, life is not ended but changed by death. The true destiny of every person is to be eternally in union with God who loved each one into existence.

Principles of Catholic Social Teaching are Gospel based principles, which should underpin our social interactions, the structure and life of our institutions and communities, and our approaches to ministry, service, promotion of justice.

Welcome message from Bishop Tomlinson goes here

Jesus announced his mission;  
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because God has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour”… (Luke 4:18-19)

Life involves suffering as well as happiness and joy.  Human suffering is not willed by God.

Jesus formed a community of disciples to continue God’s mission in and for the world. Twelve of his disciples were given the name ‘Apostles’.

Catholic Christians have a sacramental view of life and creation. In Jesus, ‘the Word was made flesh’ (Jn 1:13-14); a divine person was born into the created world (the Incarnation). Therefore creation is able to point towards God and helps us encounter God.