Parish News
Bernadette Lynch, a long‑standing and deeply respected contributor to Catholic life in the Ballarat Diocese and recognised for her commitment to parish communities, religious education and the mission of the Church, retired at the end of 2025.
Well known in both the Wendouree and Redan (now the South West Ballarat) parishes, Bernadette has spent many years supporting faith formation, guiding parish initiatives and offering pastoral care with what colleagues describe as her “love, kindness and Gospel spirit.”
Her involvement across the diocese has been extensive. As a Religious Education Advisor in the Diocesan Religious Education Centre, Bernadette played an integral role in the development of Awakenings, the religious education curriculum designed specifically for schools in the Ballarat Diocese. She was also a key member of the Inter‑diocesan Coordinating Group that shaped the program. Religious Education Leaders consistently valued her approachable, enthusiastic and knowledgeable support.
Her parish work has been equally significant. In Wendouree, Bernadette served on the Parish Leadership Steering Group, which helped discern the need for an OLHC Parish Interim Coordinating Team.
Bernadette has also long contributed to the diocesan Parish‑Based Sacramental Program. Through the Let the Children Come initiative, she assisted families preparing children for the Sacraments of Initiation and was part of the team that reviewed diocesan policy and catechetical resources.
In the Southwest Ballarat Parish, where she worked as parish co‑ordinator for 12 years, Bernadette is known for her strong sense of community and pastoral presence. She participated actively in the life of both parishes, supporting families, parish groups and key ministries.
Beyond retirement from her parish and education roles, Bernadette is a valued member of the Our Diocesan Community Editorial Board, where her insights and experience help shape the storytelling and communication of the wider diocese and has also recently accepted a position on the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Board Ltd. These will keep her busy in her retirement.
Those who have worked with her describe Bernadette as compassionate, deeply committed to her faith and gifted in encouraging participation and discernment within parish life. Her ability to listen, reflect and bring people together has shaped countless conversations and initiatives throughout the diocese.
“Bernadette is someone who lives the Gospel every day,” one colleague said. “Her kindness, her sense of community and her openness to the Spirit are evident in everything she does.”
A Thanksgiving Mass was held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at St Aloysius Church Redan with Fr Con, Fr Eladio and Fr Eugene con-celebrating Mass and a morning tea followed in the Parish Office. This gathering provided an opportunity for everyone to come together in appreciation of Bernadette’s contributions to our Parish as we celebrated and farewelled Bernadette.
Bernadette officially marked the conclusion of her service and time in the Parish at the St Aloysius Christmas Eve Mass. Bernadette was presented with a certificate from the Bishop and two roses for her garden. This presentation marked the conclusion of her time with us and her dedicated tenure as Parish Coordinator.
Bernadette with the Redan GodStart Team who have also retired from their roles.