By John Pintabona
Leederville parishioners have recently embraced the dawn of a new era with the installation of Fr Jeffey Casabuena as the Parish Priest.
The momentous occasion on Sunday 20 August at St Mary’s Church is one that will be remembered in the hearts and minds of all who attended.
The Mass was celebrated by Vicar General, the Very Rev Fr Peter Whitely, Vicar General with Fr Jeffey as concelebrant.
Also attending the Mass were representatives from the Parish Council, Finance Committee, parishioners past and present as well as friends who journeyed from Kalgoorlie and the South-West.
Born in the town of Hinigaran, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, Fr Jeffey completed part of his religious formation at the Sacred Heart Seminary of Bacolod City and at The University of Santo Tomas, Manila, obtaining a Philosophy degree and a Bachelor of Sacred Theology.
Despite being drawn to a career in academia, he felt a strong desire to enter the priesthood and was particularly inspired by Fr Robert Carrillo, the Parish Priest of St Andrew’s Parish, Clarkson. Fr Carrillo would often visit Jeffey’s parish in the Philippines and encouraged him to enter the seminary.
After obtaining his visa, Fr Jeffey finished his formation at St Charles’ Seminary, Guildford, and was ordained on 1 August 2015. He has undertaken appointments at St Mary’s Cathedral and St Mary’s Kalgoorlie during that time.
Parish Pastoral Council Chair John Pintabona said the moment marked the beginning of a new spiritual journey, one that parishioners eagerly anticipate under the capable stewardship of Father Jeffey.
“His arrival opens a new chapter in the history of St. Mary’s, promising continued growth and spiritual enrichment for our beloved parish,” Mr Pintabona said.
The installation Mass, continued Mr Pintabona, accompanied by the San Lorenzo Choir, was nothing short of extraordinary.
“The church overflowed with devoted worshipers who had come to witness this significant moment,”
“The ethereal voices of the choir soared, filling the high ceiling space of the church with reverence and joy. It was a testament to the unity and faith which binds our community together,” he said.
The congregation came together for a morning tea at the conclusion of Mass, with old friendships rekindled and new ones forged as stories were shared of the past 100 years of Leederville parish.
“As we reflect on this beautiful day, we are filled with gratitude for the past and hope for the future,” Mr Pintabona said.
“With Father Jeffey’s guidance, we look forward to deepening our faith, expanding our community outreach, and nurturing the spiritual growth of all who call St Mary’s their spiritual home,” he said.
