Last Sunday’s Celebration
Dear all parishioners, last week we celebrated the Solemnity of our Seraphic Father, Saint Francis of Assisi. The celebration was simple but fantastic. We opened the celebration with the Vigil Mass on Saturday 3rd October, then continued with the Transitus (the commemoration of the death of Saint Francis). Many parishioners attended the celebration, including members of the Capuchin Young Adults, the Secular Franciscan Order, the Neocatecumenal Way, and of course, the Capuchin Friars.
The following day, Sunday 4th October, our Parish dedicated all Holy Masses at St Fiacre’s and St Francis’ churches to celebrating this famous Saint. After the 9:30 AM Mass, I had a chance to bless three dogs and their owners (see the picture). They received a special blessing on that special day! Besides, this year’s celebration also has a deep-felt meaning as it coincides with the signing of Pope Francis’ newest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti (All Brothers). This encyclical is full of the ideals of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Franciscan spirituality. Therefore, I encourage you to read, reflect on, and discuss it with your family and friends. Please read or download the full document here: www.vatican.va.
Special Rosary this Sunday
I also want to announce that the official Pilgrim Statue of Our Lady Help of Christians will be visiting our Parish this Sunday 11th October, starting at 4.00 PM. Please feel free to bring flowers as a gift to Our Lady. We will recite the Holy Rosary together, followed by a brief reflection. After that, I will expose the Blessed Sacrament and lead the Benediction. The Sacrament of Confession is also available during the activities. After the Adoration, we will continue with the Holy Mass for Young Adults. You are most welcome to join.
Parish Catechists
I also want to open up opportunities for parishioners who are called to become catechists. Becoming a catechist is a vital vocation in supporting the growth of your local Parish, and I can see the urgent needs of our Parish today to have a group of dedicated people who are willing to volunteer and invest their time and energy to proclaim Jesus Christ to others, both for school students and our parishioners in general. If you feel the call, please let me know, or you could also phone the Parish Office: (02) 9518 0650, or send an email to fiacre@capuchinfriars.org.au.
Tap & Go Machine
The Tap & Go machine is now available at the church entrance and is set for $10. If you wish to donate more, simply tap your credit card as many times you like. Alternatively, if you wish, you can join the Regular Donors Group in our Parish, by opting to the Planned Giving Programme. Forms are available in the foyer of the church and on our Parish website: www.stfiacreparish.com. May God always protect and bless you and your family. – Fr Pio.