PARISH NEWS
15th/16th July 2023
19th/20th August 2023
Reflecting on Two Successful G'day Weekends
By: Fr. Novie
In the vibrant tapestry of our parish community, the months of July and August shone with the brilliance of togetherness as we embraced not one, but two remarkable G'day weekends. These occasions were more than mere events; they were moments that reaffirmed our bonds and celebrated our shared spirit.
A heartfelt expression of gratitude goes out to all who contributed their time, energy, and enthusiasm to make these weekends unforgettable. Our appreciation extends to the dedicated ministry groups that took the helm: the Liturgy Team, the Welcome Team, and the Parish Pastoral Council, along with the Baptism Preparation Team. Your commitment to fostering connection and nurturing fellowship has not gone unnoticed.
One of the highlights of these gatherings was the time we spent together after each Mass, where conversations flowed like the warm brews we shared. It was heartening to see familiar faces and new ones engaging in meaningful dialogues, bridging the gaps and making our parish truly feel like a united family. To all those who lingered for a cuppa and dedicated moments to meet fresh faces, thank you. It's these moments of genuine interaction that make our community stronger and more welcoming.
As we reflect on these two G'day weekends, we are filled with gratitude for the unity and camaraderie that were so beautifully showcased. Our community is a tapestry woven with diverse threads, and these weekends illuminated the colorful diversity that enriches us all.
As we eagerly anticipate the next G'day weekends, let's hold onto the memories and connections we've forged. Let's look forward to even more engaging conversations, laughter, and shared experiences. We are excited to see all of you once again, embracing the joy of community and celebrating the spirit that makes our parish truly special.
11th June 2023
Celebrating Success: Santacruzan Festival of the Filipino Community in Echuca
By: Fr. Novie
On June 11, 2023, the Filipino community at St. Mary's, Echuca, came together to celebrate the first-ever Santacruzan festival, and it was a resounding success. The event was filled with love, fun, and inclusivity, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the queens, children, and their families who wholeheartedly embraced and actively participated in the Santacruzan. Your enthusiasm and dedication truly made this event a memorable one. The vibrant costumes and graceful processions added a touch of elegance to the festivities, symbolising the beauty of our faith and heritage.
A special mention goes to Annie Taylor for her remarkable organisational skills and tireless efforts in bringing the Santacruzan to life. Her attention to detail and commitment to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable event was truly commendable. We are grateful for her dedication and passion in making this event a reality. We also extend our thanks to Julie Moyle, our Community Coordinator, whose invaluable assistance played a crucial role in the success of the celebration. Her support and guidance helped create an atmosphere of unity and togetherness in the community.
Throughout the day, the Santacruzan was a reflection of our shared values and the strong sense of community that binds us together. It provided an opportunity for everyone to come together, celebrate our cultural heritage, and deepen our faith. The Santacruzan festival was a celebration of our Filipino traditions and a testament to the spirit of inclusivity and harmony within our community. It was a day when people from different backgrounds and generations came together, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
As we look back on this successful event, we are reminded of the power of unity and the strength that comes from embracing our shared culture and faith. The Santacruzan has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on our community, serving as a reminder of the rich tapestry of traditions that make us who we are. Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the Santacruzan celebration. Your support and participation have truly made a difference. Let us continue to nurture the spirit of community and celebrate our cultural heritage together as we look forward to more memorable events in the future. Mabuhay!
30th April 2023
Echuca Parish Celebrates the Feast Day of Our Lady of Good Counsel
By Julie Moyle, St. Mary’s Parish, Echuca Parishioner
On Sunday, 30th April, St Mary’s Parish in Echuca celebrated ‘Our Lady of Good Counsel’ feast day. We welcomed Bishop Shane to our only Mass for the weekend at 11 am, concelebrating with our Parish Priest, Fr Novelito Lim, in front of a large congregation. We were joined by some of the year 1 students from St Mary’s School who exhibited great talent, singing at the Mass.
Our community then enjoyed a wonderful lunch prepared and served by our Social Committee. Some 120 adults and 30 children experienced a warm and inclusive atmosphere where some talented younger Parish community members entertained us.
The feast day celebration was also the culmination of our ‘Cash for a Cause’ fundraiser. The funds raised from this initiative will be used to create a hospitality space in our Church.
This fantastic day included cutting our feast day cake, which all members of our community enjoyed. The day was a celebration of the diversity of our vibrant community.
We thank Fr Novie for his energetic and enthusiastic approach to the day and look forward to many more memorable celebrations as a Parish Community.
