For Father Marcellinus Meilak, the 50th anniversary of his ordination into the priesthood in March this year passed like any other day – with a Mass in his residential Chapel and a low-key celebration at the Maltese Club in Bassendean, surrounded by friends and parishioners whom he has known during his 24 years in Perth.
The 76-year-old Franciscan of the Order of the Friars Minor (OFM) was ordained in Valetta, Malta, in 1967. Later that year, he arrived in Adelaide to begin what was to be decades of service in parishes across Australia. Reflecting on his decision to join the Franciscans, he said it was largely influenced by his childhood in Libya in the years during, and following World War II, when priests from the Franciscan Order helped to rebuild the country and re-establish its inhabitants, many of whom were returning to Libya after being taken prisoner of war, with Fr Meilak and his family among them. By Caroline Smith.

When people think of ‘vocations’, the concept that comes to mind is often one of people involved in religious orders, or who live out the vocation of marriage, with God playing an important role in their relationship and family life. By Caroline Smith.

Sacred Heart College student Vincent Pettinicchio has found a unique way to help homeless people in Perth. By Caroline Smith.

The University of Notre Dame Australia community came together to recognise nearly three decades of achievements since the institution’s founding in 1989. Founders’ Week, held on the week of 14-20 August, honours the founders, staff, alumni, students and supporters of the University. By Caroline Smith.

For Fathers Joe Pelle and John Hogan – the first two priests ordained from the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Morley – the intervening 20 years have been ones of revelation and inspiration. Both men were ordained at St Mary’s Cathedral in July 1997, three years after the Seminary’s inauguration on 14 August 1994, as an institution guided by the charism of the Neocatechumenal Way. At the time, Fr Pelle was also the first priest to have undertaken all his studies in Western Australia. By contrast, Fr Hogan began his journey to the priesthood in New Jersey, USA, but returned to Perth to complete his studies at Redemptoris Mater Morley (Perth). Reflecting on what led him to consider a life in the Church, Fr Pelle – who is currently Spiritual Director at the Seminary – said the idea had first emerged through his connection with the NeoCatechumenal Way at Mirrabooka Parish. “I experienced a deep restlessness in my heart, and I was convinced that there had to be more to life than just accumulating money and possessions,” he said. By Caroline Smith.

Reconciliation can transform the lives of the victim and wrongdoer, theologian Dr Laurie Brink op has said at a recent seminar. By Caroline Smith.

Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love) can provide married couples with a great source of inspiration and practical advice, according to Catholic Marriage and Fertility Services Director, Derek Boylen. As well as a reflection on the joy of marriage. By Caroline Smith.

Following the success of its inauguration last year, the 2017 Child Protection Week Breakfast will take place this year on Tuesday 5 September at the Duxton Hotel. Hosted by the Archdiocese of Perth, the event will see many dignitaries, schools and lay people come together. By Caroline Smith.