More than 200 people are expected to attend the fourth annual Parramatta Street Feast today – a call to share a meal with those battling life on the lonely fringe of society. Source: Parramatta Diocese.
The event at St Patrick’s Cathedral is a response to Pope Francis’ World Day of the Poor and the call to build a more inclusive, welcoming and generous society.
Hosted by Parramatta Diocese, PAYCE Foundation, Paynter Dixon and St Merkorious Charity, the event will draw people of all ages and walks of life for a shared meal served by dozens of dedicated volunteers, as well as friendly company and entertainment.
New partners, more stalls and engaging activities are set to provide opportunities for friendship and community spirit with live music led by the Sydney Street Choir.
Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv said there was no better way than sharing a meal with the disadvantaged and those on the margins to build a stronger, more inclusive community.
“A mark of a civil society is that of inclusion, that of care and outreach to those who are on the margins. And this is also the constant theme of Pope Francis’s pontificate – wherever he goes, that message of love, of care, of common humanity shines through his message, his gestures and his actions,” Bishop Long said.
“We want to replicate this theme of Pope Francis of care, love, inclusion and celebration of our common humanity here in this Diocese of Parramatta, Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
“This [Street Feast] is an attempt to create a sense of community and belonging, no matter where we are in our life journey, no matter what situation we find ourselves – it’s the bond of our common humanity that binds us all together.”
PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan said too many people are struggling to survive on the streets, particularly with rents skyrocketing and the ever-increasing cost of living leading to increased food insecurity.
“The Street Feast is a simple act of humanity to let people know they are not alone. Sadly, more people are facing the prospect of living on the streets,” he said.
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Parramatta Street Feast to welcome those struggling on the streets (Parramatta Diocese)
