Monthly AUSLAN-interpreted Masses have been re-introduced at Joodanna Parish, St Denis Church, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusivity and community outreach.
This initiative revives a tradition initially championed by the late Fr Paul Pitzen, former Chaplain for the Deaf, alongside Barbara Harris, former coordinator of the Emmanuel Centre.
The interpreted Masses had ceased following Fr Paul’s passing and Ms Harris’s relocation to St Joseph’s Parish, Subiaco.
However, recognizing the essential need for accessible religious services, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB instructed the Emmanuel Centre earlier this year to resume this valuable service.
Now held on the last Saturday of each month during the 6.30pm Vigil Mass, the interpreted services have proven successful, attracting consistent attendance from members of the deaf community.
Since restarting in April 2025, an average of six deaf participants have attended each Mass, with newcomers from various parishes, including Yangebup Parish.
The Joondanna Parish community has warmly embraced the initiative.
Parish Priest Fr Anthony Rathinam OSM, alongside parishioners and Sr Elizabeth Nicholls RSM, have provided notable support.
During the inaugural interpreted Mass in April, Sr Elizabeth delivered a welcoming introduction, and Emmanuel Centre Co-ordinator Joe O’Brien, shared insights and announcements to further promote community involvement.
Despite its successes, the program has encountered challenges, particularly in interpreting specific religious terminology.
Phrases like ‘consubstantial’ and ‘eucharist,’ – uncommon in daily conversation, initially posed difficulties for interpreters.
To address this, Emmanuel Centre collaborates closely with interpreters, providing pre-Mass briefings and PowerPoint materials to enhance the accuracy and fluency of interpretation.
The Emmanuel Centre aims to establish consistency by employing a regular interpreter rather than rotating monthly, thereby enabling interpreters to become familiar with the Mass structure and terminology, enhancing their effectiveness for the benefit of the deaf and wider parish community.
Expanding its outreach, the Emmanuel Centre has also introduced weekly AUSLAN Gospel presentations at St Mary MacKillop Church, Ballajura Parish and St Francis Xavier Church, Cathedral Parish.
These presentations combine visual PowerPoint slides displaying the Gospel readings alongside recorded AUSLAN interpretations, ensuring broader access and understanding during weekly Masses.
The ongoing efforts underline a critical commitment to accessibility, fostering a sense of belonging and participation among the deaf community within Perth’s Catholic landscape.
The Emmanuel Centre has also commenced conducting an Introduction to AUSLAN/Deaf Culture sessions for seminarians from St Charles and Redemptoris Mater Seminary.
Parishes interested in incorporating AUSLAN Gospel interpretations into their services are encouraged to contact the Emmanuel Centre directly at emmanuelcentre@perthcatholic.org.au.