(Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle)
Newy 87.8 FM – The Little Friars and Little Nuns of Jesus and Mary have arrived in the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese for a special Parish Mission in partnership with MacKillop Parish.
According to the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, the group was warmly welcomed by the community at Mass at St Mary Immaculate Church, Charlestown.
Their visit follows an invitation from Bishop Michael Kennedy.
Over the coming weeks, they will celebrate Mass with local communities, visit schools, share meals, lead retreats and speak about their vocations.
The diocese said the friars and nuns are recognisable by their distinctive habits, green rosary beads and unusual haircuts.
They have affectionately been compared to the "Jedi" or the Sand People from Star Wars.
According to the diocese, their appearance reflects a way of life centred on simplicity, prayer and a desire to be an outward sign of God's presence in the world.
The diocese said the group brings its faith, fellowship and joyful witness to the Gospel to the mission.
It said their commitment to prayer, community and service invites people to reflect on placing Christ more intentionally at the centre of their lives.
Join the discussion on Facebook.
