Sean likes having a laugh, high adrenaline sports, keeping fit, playing wheelchair basketball and spending time with his adorable puppy, Ruby. The 28-year-old has cerebral palsy and has never let his disability or people’s attitudes get in the way of achieving his goals and having fun. One thing that was holding him back though was a lack of supports outside of his family. That changed when he got his first NDIS plan this year and he turned to not-for-profit disability service provider Villa Maria Catholic Homes (VMCH), which recently opened an office in Ballarat. VMCH’s new Central Highlands office helps people make the most of their NDIS plan.

Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria unveiled paintings of the 14 Stations of the Cross in its chapel on Sunday 19 November, inviting deeper reflection on the Passion and death of Jesus Christ. Aboriginal artist John Dunn wove his own life story into those transcendent themes, and on Sunday he shared that weaving with the many people who were privileged to be present for the unveiling. The Stations of the Cross deepen the Ministry's commitment to providing a place of contemplation and reflection for those who visit its chapel and office.

ACRATH has developed resources to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence from November 25th – December 10th 2017.

Jesuit Social Services is voicing its opposition to the Carmichael coal project by joining the Stop Adani Alliance, and calls on other community sector organisations to advocate against the project. “We recognise that social and environmental justice are inextricably linked, and are committed to ecological justice,” says Jesuit Social Services Acting CEO Sally Parnell.

Teachers from the Melbourne and Ballarat Dioceses will be trained to understand and respond to young people, particularly young women, who are at risk of a forced marriage, at a workshop auspiced by Catholic Education, Melbourne. The one-day workshop on Friday, October 27, will be run by ACRATH (Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans).

Congratulations to our Council member Jenny Glare of MacKillop Family Services on her HESTA 2017 award as ‘unsung hero’, which recognises her pioneering work in supporting people who grew up in care.

Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans (ACRATH) has released its 2018 calendars. First published in 2015, the ACRATH calendar created awareness of human trafficking globally and here in Australia. ACRATH hopes the 2018 edition continues to promote awareness of human trafficking issues, and fundraise for ACRATH's work. The cost of the calendar is $10 (GST Free). Download an order form here.