On the morning of 31 July 31, the tranquil setting of St Mary’s Cathedral was filled with an air of reverence and celebration as Catholic Social Services Western Australia (CSSWA) gathered to honour the outstanding contributions of two remarkable women—Belinda Bowden and Rosa Pasquale—at the annual Employee and Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The session helped to raise awareness of Elder Abuse and the Care Finders Program Initiative.
The procession is now in its seventh year – with skies clearing at the end of morning Mass providing a 45minute window free from rain.
The award sets a benchmark for other church communities, showcasing how a dedicated team can create a safe environment.
The visit to the parish gave Bishop Don the opportunity to meet with Parish Priest Fr Jeronimo Flamenco Castillo and the parish leadership team, ministry coordinators and parishioners, as well as St Peters Primary School Leadership Group, teachers and students.
In his homily for the 25th anniversary of Mary Mackillop Church and 35th anniversary of Ballajura Parish, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe spoke about our understanding of sacraments.
The members of the Vocal Ensemble come from varied backgrounds, including students and graduates from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and the University of Western Australia (UWA), as well as professional musicians and newcomers to the music profession.
Embleton Parish Priest Fr Patrick Toohey has reflected on the dual milestones being commemorated: “Last December we celebrated 50 years since we built the parish church; on May 19, we celebrated 60 years since our founding as a parish.”
The event was spearheaded by Fr Geoff Aldous, who says that it was “an exercise of community building” between four parishes including Rockingham Our Lady of Lourdes, Kwinana St Vincent’s, Port Kennedy Saint Bernadette’s and Baldivis St Teresa of Calcutta.
On the 1 March 1919 the Leederville Parish was established with Father Moloney appointed parish priest, with the Church opened in December 1923. This year, the Church celebrated the 100th anniversary.