You are here:HomeNewsLatest News 30 July 2021 A message from Bishop Anthony Randazzo: As expected, the current COVID outbreak has necessitated a further extension of the stay at home order for the Greater Sydney Area, including Central Coast, Blue Mountains, and Wollongong, which is now in place to at least 12:01 am Saturday 28 August 2021. With the announcement of the continuation of the stay at home order, I ask that all our churches in the Diocese of Broken Bay remain closed. The obligation for the faithful to participate in Sunday Mass (can.1247) remains suspended for the people of Broken Bay for the duration of this lockdown. I will review the situation as we approach 28 August or if the stay at home order is lifted earlier. A reminder that weddings are not permitted to occur and funerals will be limited to 10 people, excluding those who are involved in its conduct. I strongly encourage you to consider live-streaming Masses as well as considering other ways of connecting with your parish community virtually. In addition to the extension, please note that the Local Government Areas (LGA) of concern have been updated to include Parramatta, Campbelltown, and Georges River LGAs. The Parish of Epping and Carlingford falls within the boundaries of Parramatta LGA and now must adhere to these further restrictions. My office has begun communicating with the parishes whose Confirmations were scheduled to occur in August, to defer until later this year. With clarity in regards to the end of the lockdown and what restrictions may remain beyond the stay at home order, only then will we be in a position to advise new dates and procedures. I hold you in my prayers. Sincerely yours in Christ, +Anthony