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We were also blessed with the presence of a most engaging Bishop Peter Comensoli, who presided at the Mass. After Mass, sun streaming through the trees creating a golden haze, Bishop Peter ventures outside into the forecourt, mitre on, mingling, big smile, hand out-stretched, introducing himself to the parishioners. This young prelate is so boy-next-door approachable. How refreshing; how great if he were to get the nod to replace Cardinal Pell.
The Opening of the Church and celebration of the first Mass was on May 5th 1889. Cardinal Moran presided.
Today’s celebratory Mass was indeed a moving, spiritual experience from so many perspectives, but one of the regular parishioners summed it up in perhaps more secular vernacular ‘sumptuous’! This is such a juxtaposition to the normal daily focus of the parish providing a welcome haven, without judgement, for the needy in our densely populated area of Sydney.
But, surely we can afford to be ‘sumptuous’ for a day – on the occasion of our 125th Anniversary Celebration!
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Meanwhile, as Master of Ceremonies, I stand at the lectern, also stunned, (during a much longer pause than you see in this video, wondering ‘Is that all there is?” ). And then it starts. Wonderful music – from the heavens. Thank you, Christine and thank you Ian.
Fanfare and ‘Acknowledgement of Land’ – 3-minute Video
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Celebrating The Spirit of St Canice’s – Bishop Peter’s Homily and Other ‘personal Reflections’
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