What is Ephpheta?
The word Ephpheta comes from the Gospel of Mark (Mark 7:34) when Jesus healed a deaf man. Ephpheta means “Be Open”. It means be open to the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Be open to each other, open to our minds and hearts and to all people irrespective of their religion. At Ephpheta, we provide services to deaf and hard hearing people, regardless of their religion.
Vision & Mission
The Vision of the Ephpheta Centre is to give God’s love by following the Good News of Jesus Christ and reaching out to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities.
Our mission is to create opportunities for continuing faith development for the members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities by faithfully carrying on the mission of Jesus Christ.
Our Team
At Ephpheta, our team is made up of dedicated staff and volunteers—many of whom are Deaf or Hard of Hearing themselves—who are passionate about building an inclusive, faith-filled community. We work together to provide Auslan-accessible services, pastoral care, and social connections, supporting people to live, share, and grow in their faith.
Our History
Founded to serve the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Catholic community, the Ephpheta Centre takes its name from Jesus’ words “Ephpheta – Be opened!” (Mark 7:34). From small beginnings, we’ve grown into a welcoming hub for faith, friendship, and support, ensuring everyone can fully share in community life.
Our Faith
Rooted in the Catholic tradition, our faith guides everything we do at the Ephpheta Centre. Inspired by Jesus’ words “Ephpheta – Be opened!” (Mark 7:34), we strive to share God’s love through Auslan-accessible worship, pastoral care, and community life, ensuring everyone can encounter and live the Gospel fully.