Sydney – September 9, 2025, On Wednesday, September 3rd, the Teresa Centre—an emerging ministry of MaroniteCare under the Maronite Eparchy of Australia—hosted a heartfelt luncheon in Sydney, in the presence of His Excellency Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay, Maronite Bishop of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania, alongside more than 170 women, representatives of Maronite associations, community members, and the dedicated team behind the Centre.

The luncheon celebrated the Centre’s mission to support women navigating postnatal challenges, unexpected pregnancies, and the broader journey of parenting, with compassion and dignity.

A vision rooted in faith
Bishop Tarabay shared the spiritual and communal inspiration behind the Centre and said, “This is the first event we hold for Teresa’s Centre, because what began as an idea in the heart of Dr Marie-Rose Mouawad and a few friends has now become a wonderful movement for life, seeking the wellbeing of women and the respect and protection due to the life of the unborn.”

Bishop Tarabay added, “When Dr Marie-Rose first approached me, I felt she was calling for a mission close to my heart. With the support of MaroniteCare and a generous benefactor, Teresa Centre was able to open its doors and begin its sacred work.”

He also reflected on the Centre’s patron, Saint Teresa of Calcutta, saying “Mother Teresa devoted her life to seeing Christ in every human being, especially the most vulnerable. Her words capture the mission of this place: “The mother does not kill her child when there is someone there to love both, her and the child.” Teresa’s Centre exists to be that presence of love, walking alongside women, assuring them that both them and their children are cherished and loved by God and by us.”

Empowering women through compassion
Founder and Director Dr Marie-Rose Mouawad addressed the attendees with a powerful message, saying, “Teresa Centre exists to be the hope the world needs—hope with compassion for women and their babies when the world says ‘you can’t.’ We say, ‘now you can.’ Whether it’s post-natal struggle, parenting support, or unexpected pregnancies, we walk with women through their painful moments, restore dignity, and affirm that every life is worthy.”

She extended heartfelt thanks to Bishop Tarabay for bringing the initiative to light, for his guidance and wisdom, to all attendees for their generosity, and to the volunteers whose dedication fuels the Centre’s mission.

Volunteer consultant Ms Natalie Chalhoub shared her experience working with women facing unexpected pregnancies saying, “Through Teresa Centre, we challenge the narratives society imposes and offer women the chance to make informed, dignified decisions. I’m proud to be part of a community that educates, uplifts, and reminds women they are never alone.”

The luncheon featured a variety of fundraising activities, with guests contributing generously to support the Centre’s programs and outreach efforts.

About Teresa Centre
Teresa Centre is a ministry of MaroniteCare dedicated to supporting women through pregnancy, postnatal challenges, unexpected pregnancies, and the journey of parenting. Inspired by Saint Teresa of Calcutta, the Centre offers emotional, spiritual, and practical support—affirming the dignity of every woman and child, and walking alongside them with love and hope.