Ballajura parishioners called on reflect on journey than began in 1988

05 Apr 2024

By Contributor

By Joseph Younes

Ballajura 35th Anniversary Pre-event
Then Perth Archbishop Barry Hickey consecrates the altar at St Mary MacKillop Catholic Church in the new parish of Ballajura on 25 March 1999. Photo: The Record.

Ballajura Parish is calling on all parishioners, past and present, to join them in celebrating two significant milestones of the Church community.

The parish will commence the celebrations on Friday 19 April with a community anniversary at 6pm, followed by a Mass on Saturday 27 April at 6pm, marking the 25th anniversary of the Church of Mary MacMakillop and 35th anniversary of the parish.

Under the guidance of the inaugural beloved Parish Priest, Fr John Jegorow, the community will reflect on the journey that began in December 1988 when Archbishop Foley issued a call for “Expressions of Interest” from priests within the Archdiocese of Perth to establish a parish in the burgeoning suburb of Ballajura.

Parish Priest Fr John Jegorow holds the foundation stone for the new Ballajura Church in 1999. Photo: The Record.

From those humble beginnings, their community has flourished, guided by the teachings and traditions of the Catholic faith.

As they commemorate this momentous occasion, all are warmly invited to join them for a series of special events planned for the day.

The highlight of the celebration will be the unveiling of a grotto dedicated to the Holy Family.

This sacred space will serve as a focal point for prayer and reflection, reminding us of the importance of family and faith in our lives.

Then Perth Archbishop Barry Hickey knocks on the doors of the new Church of St Mary MacKillop in the new parish of Ballajura, 25 March 1999. Photo: The Record.

Following the unveiling ceremony, there will be a gathering in the school hall featuring a classic Australian tradition – a sausage sizzle.

The festivities will also include a lively ‘Mucky Duck’ bush dance, where you can kick up your heels and dance the night away in celebration of Ballajura parish’s rich history and vibrant Catholic community.

All members of the parish community, past and present, as well as friends and neighbours, are invited to come together and rejoice in this milestone anniversary.

It is a time to give thanks for the blessings received and to look forward with hope and anticipation to the future of the parish.

Then newly appointed Ballajura Parish Priest Fr John Jegorow anoints the walls of the new Church of Mary MacKillop on 25 March 1999. Photo: The Record.

For more information about the event, please feel free to contact Fr John Jegorow at marymackillop@bigpond.com.