Thank you to the many parishioners who have booked for the Easter Services.  Given some of the changes to COVID-19 restrictions we now have further places available across our parishes for the Easter Triduum.  Bookings remain essential and will close at 5.00 pm on Monday, 29 March.  Here is an updated list of the 7-ways that we are asking you to prepare for Easter.

1.  Plan and Book

Plan on which Easter ceremonies you would like to attend and make sure that you book in via TryBooking on our website.  If you need assistance please ring the Parish Office.  Booking will close on Monday 29 March at 5:00 p.m. 

2.  Arrival Early

Once you are booked in you will need to check in on arrival at each ceremony, so please arrive early.

3.  Bring your own Palm

If you are attending Palm Sunday please bring a palm branch with you so that we can reduce the handling of palms by multiple people.   The Blessing of Palms and a short outdoor procession will take place at 10.00 am at Camberwell, 10.30 am at Surrey Hills and 10.30 am at Deepdene.   Once again early arrival will assist with check in.

4.  Keep your shoes on!

Be aware that the washing of the feet will not take place on Holy Thursday this year.  Instead each of our churches is planning for a symbolic representation of the washing of the feet.

5.  Venerate the Cross with a bow

On Good Friday be prepared to venerate the cross with a simple bow.  We will not be kissing or touching the cross this year.  

6.  We have 5 Churches – find out where there is a place for you

We have five Churches in the three parishes of Camberwell, Balwyn Deepdene and Surrey Hills Wattle Park.  This Holy Week you might like to consider attending a Church other than your usual place of worship.  Our largest Church is Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, 301 Elgar Road, Surrey Hills.

7.  Bring a plate and celebrate our Easter faith

You are invited to join hospitality following the Easter Vigil at Our Holy Redeemer, Our Lady of Good Counsel or Our Lady of Victories.  If you are able to bring a plate to assist with the celebrations please contact the Parish Office.