By Anthony Barich
A SPIRITUAL practice that counts Benedict XVI and the late John Paul II among its enthusiasts will be centre-stage in helping the parish of East Victoria Park celebrate its 75th anniversary next month.
With 11 days of adoration in the lead up to a special anniversary Mass, Parish Priest Fr M C Arulraj will host an hour of adoration each day from 6.30-7.30pm before Mass from 1-11 December at Our Lady Help of Christians Church on the corner of Berwick and Camberwell Streets.
Ordained in his home city of Chennai, India before arriving in Australia eight years ago, Fr Arulraj, 42, brings to the celebrations a popular tradition from his home land, where parishes would host nine-day Novenas before lavish celebrations for major events like feast days.
He told The Record that the adoration is not only a chance to give thanks to God for the many blessings in the parish’s 75 years but also provides an opportunity to provide the Sacrament of Penance concurrently during the Holy Hour throughout the season of Advent.
On 12 December, Bunbury Bishop Gerard Holohan will preside over a 9.30am Mass, concelebrated with Fr Arulraj and several other priests.
The Mass will also mark the 50th anniversary of the dedication of the parish church.
Fr Arulraj said the adoration is also an opportunity to give thanks to God for helping parishioners pass on the Catholic faith to their children and grandchildren over 75 years. “Now, with a children’s liturgy on Sunday, we have a good team doing a great job catering for the needs of the people,” he said.