Seventy years of Catholic faith were celebrated in Brookton near the end of last year with the Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church community coming together to commemorate their milestone anniversary.
A special Anniversary Mass celebrated by Parish Priest Fr Joseph Kakumanu CRS saw the church filled to capacity for what the parishioners described as “a truly joyful celebration.”
Adding further to the occasion was Erin Pepper receiving her First Holy Communion surrounded by family, friends, and the parish community – including three Servite Sisters who travelled from Northam.
Josie Prunster and Ross Evans led the music for the Mass, and Talma Eva shared reflections on the history of the church, reminding everyone of the faith and dedication that have sustained the Brookton Catholic community over the decades.
Following the Mass, everyone gathered at the CWA Hall for a warm and welcoming bring-and-share dinner. The evening provided an opportunity for fellowship, storytelling, and thanksgiving – a fitting continuation of a day that honoured both the past and the vibrant faith life of the present community.
Catholic worship in Brookton began and continues to be, an outreach of the York parish. Prior to the church being built, Masses were held in community spaces such as the local Agricultural Hall.
On 18 December 1955, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church was officially blessed and opened to provide a permanent home for Catholic life in the Brookton district.
Over the years, Our Lady of the Rosary has been a spiritual focal point for the local Catholic community, hosting Sunday Masses, sacraments, parish meetings, and rites of passage such as baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and funerals.
Although small in size, the church has played a major role in fostering community solidarity and faith formation for families in the Brookton region.
It represents the commitment of generations of families who value the importance of an active faith community.
