Grief Care was proud to be a major sponsor of the 2026 Clergy Conference at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley. The event brought together more than 250 priests, deacons, organising staff and Market Day stallholders for three days of formation, reflection and connection.
Grief Care was represented by Patricia Thomas, Grief Care Consulting Manager; Sinead Kent, Memorial, Remembrance, Lay-Led Services and Events Coordinator; and Carmela Di Pietro, Education and Programs Coordinator.
On Tuesday, 11 August, Carmela delivered the sponsor introduction and welcomed the day’s plenary speaker, the Most Reverend John Wilson. His presentations explored the themes:
- The Priesthood Is Loved by the Heart of Jesus
- The Priesthood Is About Loving the Heart of Jesus
The conference provided a valuable opportunity to connect with clergy, listen to their experiences and share how Grief Care and Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria can support them and their parish communities.
Priests and deacons accompany people through some of life’s most difficult and sacred moments. Building strong relationships with clergy enables Grief Care to support this important ministry through pastoral accompaniment, education, parish bereavement ministry, workshops, sharing circles, remembrance services and grief-informed resources.
Grief Care has been involved in the Clergy Conference for the past four years and is grateful for the relationships that have grown through this significant event. We look forward to continuing our involvement and walking alongside clergy and parishes as they bring compassion, care and hope to people experiencing grief and loss.
If you would like to have a conversation about how Grief Care can collaborate with your parish or community and help build its capacity to accompany people through grief, please contact the Grief Care team on 02 9646 6908 or email team@griefcare.com.au. We would be pleased to listen to your community’s needs and explore how we can support you.
