Fr Saminedi, who calls himself ‘Fr Sam’, celebrated his 30th anniversary as a priest in April surrounded by his parishioners at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Girrawheen. Having lived a full missionary life, this anniversary marks 20 years in Perth, after spending time studying and sacrificing to educate others around the globe.

Together with three other priests, Italian missionary priest Fr Lucus Perozzi have hosted some 30 people in the parish of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary, moved by the many examples of hope that he has witnessed since the start of the conflict.