One of Brisbane archdiocese’s first parish-based long day care centres – St Luke’s Child Care Centre at Capalaba – was officially opened and blessed by Archbishop Bathersby on October 25.
The centre is one of the first to be constructed in partnership with Centacare Brisbane, along with others at Upper Coomera and Ashmore on the Gold Coast, and Hervey Bay.
The Capalaba centre, established in partnership with Centacare and the parish, has spaces for 75 children and caters to those aged between six weeks and six years.
Speaking at the gathering, parish priest Fr Peter McCarthy said the centre was a contemporary response to a changing world.
“It meets needs within the local community and at the same time provides another avenue through which the church can support young families, Fr McCarthy said.
“Reading the signs of the times we were only too well aware that in the 21st century families today don’t necessarily have the traditional support networks of extended family and friends.
“I know a handful of families across both our parishes (Capalaba and Alexandra Hills) where the husband works interstate or overseas Monday to Friday and comes home on the weekends.
“With our own childcare centre now online we are in a better position to respond pastorally and holistically from the ‘womb to the tomb,’” he said.
The centre was specially designed by the architects KDW Design and Opus International to be light and airy, and with its appointments and high quality resources now in place, represents state of the art in child care facilities.
Under the management of Director Michelle Densmore it is also staffed by professionals with solid backgrounds in early years learning.
To find out about bookings please phone St Luke’s Child Care Centre 3245 3300 on or email capalabaldc@bne.centacare.net.au
Released by The Catholic Communications Office