The last Sunday in September was Sunday at St John’s. Not only was it the fourth Sunday in the Season of Creation but it was also the 108th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Each year, St John’s takes this opportunity to celebrate those from other cultures who have brought their gifts to our community.

 

And, as well as all that, this Sunday was special because we welcomed Nate George Morton into our parish community as he was baptised during Mass.

 

Processing in with Fr Jophin Joy, our Parish Priest (from India), were parishioners from Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Ireland, England and the Philippines. At the conclusion of Mass, each read this simple prayer in their own language, “We pray for Australia, and for our community here at St John’s Parish. May we treasure the gifts of all cultures and work together for the good of all in this beautiful land we are so lucky to live in,” to which all responded, “Amen”. 

Following Mass, 60 parishioners gathered for lunch to share culinary delights from India (prepared by Fr Jophin), the Philippines, Indonesia, Ireland, Canada, the Netherlands and England. Those who prepared the food were invited to describe their dishes, before we all enthusiastically lined up to try them. 

 

The food was fabulous and so was the entertainment. Chrissie and two of her Filipino friends had volunteered to sing the Filipino World Youth Day song “Tell the World of his Love,” which they did beautifully. This gave courage to others, so then, Soei sang a lovely childhood song in Indonesian; Gino serenaded Carmel and Pat Connellan (who were celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary) in magnificent Italian style; Colleen led Kris and Kerry in “We Are Australian” (the crowd joining in for a rousing chorus); then back came our Filipino friends in greater numbers with a couple more songs. All this outdoors on a beautiful Spring day – a perfect parish community celebration.

Anna explains her 'Nonna' dishes, Lasagna and Crostini while Fr Jophin Joy looks on.