Aboriginal Ministry

The Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) of the Diocese of Lismore exists to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in faith, culture and community.

We recognise the deep spiritual and cultural connection of First Nations peoples to this land, and we honour their ongoing contribution to the life of the Church.
We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land across the Diocese, who have cared for it for thousands of years, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

The ACM promotes reconciliation and mutual understanding, offering pastoral care, advocacy, and practical support, such as counselling and educational opportunities to empower Indigenous communities. Inspired by the words of Pope St John Paul II, we believe that the Church in Australia can only be fully alive when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are not only welcomed, but joyfully embraced and heard.

Through this ministry, the Diocese seeks to build stronger relationships rooted in justice, dignity and Gospel values.