Parish News
The Ministry District of Ballarat East, Bungaree and Gordon welcomed Bishop Mark Freeman during his pastoral visit to our three parishes over the weekend of June 27–28, 2026. This visit marked our first opportunity to formally welcome Bishop Mark to the district since his Ordination and Installation as Ninth Bishop of Ballarat on March 19, 2026.
Bishop Mark celebrated the 5.00pm Vigil Mass at Ballarat East with Fr Justin Driscoll, the 9.00am Sunday Mass at Gordon and the 10.30am Sunday Mass at Ballan with Fr Shaiju Mathew. Each celebration provided a meaningful occasion for parishioners to gather in faith and share in the presence of our new Bishop.
Following Mass at Ballan, parishioners and friends from across the Ministry District were invited to gather for Sunday lunch at the Wallace Hotel. This provided a wonderful opportunity for those in attendance to meet Bishop Mark personally, connect with fellow parishioners, and strengthen the sense of community across our parishes.
We sincerely thank Bishop Mark for joining us over this weekend and look forward to many future visits and celebrations together within our Ministry District. Thanks also to Cathy Prunty, Natalie Gleeson and the staff of the Wallace Hotel.
