A Memorable Pastoral Journey at St. Patrick’s Parish, Emerald
17 December, 2024
Spending two months in pastoral ministry at St. Patrick’s Parish, Emerald, has been a truly transformative and joyful experience. Serving not only the people in Emerald but also in the surrounding communities of Springsure, Rolleston, Anakie, the Willows, and the Gemfields, I felt a profound sense of belonging. The warmth and hospitality of the people made me feel quite at home, and their willingness to embrace and welcome me into their lives stands as a testament to the beauty of this faith-filled community.
Immersed in Pastoral Ministry
St. Patrick’s Parish is not merely a place of worship; it is a vibrant hub of spiritual activity and loving fellowship. From celebrating Masses and administering the sacraments to listening to the heartfelt stories of the faithful, every aspect of my ministry was enriched by the genuine love and care of the people. They graciously invited me to share in the love and joys of their families, making my pastoral work feel like a true calling rather than a duty.
One of the most touching experiences during my time here was being part of your monthly gatherings at Peggy’s house. Having the opportunity to share my own faith journey with you all was deeply meaningful. I hope that as I recounted the story of my seminary life, my road to the priesthood, and my arrival in Australia in 2016 as a Divine Word Missionary, you were able to glimpse the moments that shaped my calling. Reflecting on my 8 years of priestly ministry—three and a half years in Western Sydney at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, Macquarie Fields, and the remaining four years at Good Shepherd Parish in Townsville—reminded me of how blessed I am to continue this mission with you.
A significant highlight of my ministry was the Parish Fair in Emerald. Witnessing the remarkable collaboration between the schools, the Marist College, and the parish was incredibly uplifting. This event was more than a fundraiser; it was a celebration of community, where people of all ages and backgrounds came together in a spirit of unity and joy. The dedication, teamwork, and generosity that went into organizing the fair were heart-warming, and it truly sowed a sense of togetherness that continues to inspire me.
Equally memorable was celebrating Multicultural Day and the vibrant fete in Springsure. These events radiated the spirit of diversity and inclusivity, bringing people together to honour the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community. The joyful atmosphere, filled with laughter, colourful displays, and the coming together of different traditions, brought renewed life to my spirit and fuelled my passion for serving in ministry.
I also must not forget to thank all of you who are involved in preparing the churches for Masses and guiding the children as they prepared for their First Holy Communion. It was an honour to administer the Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist to them. These moments, even on a smaller scale, felt deeply special to me. May these children keep the flame of love for the Eucharist alive, constantly supported by their families, and always cherish this sacred experience.
Days of Discovery and Reflection
On my days off, I had the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this beautiful region. Carnarvon Gorge left me in awe with its breathtaking landscapes, a serene retreat where I could reflect on God’s creation and find spiritual renewal. The majestic vistas of Peak Range National Park (Clermont) were equally captivating, offering a quiet escape and moments of contemplation amid nature’s splendour.
I also made meaningful visits to the missions in Clermont and Blackwater. These experiences deepened my admiration for the dedicated priests and missionaries who have tirelessly sown the seeds of God’s Word in this region. Their unwavering commitment to reaching people with the essence of the sacraments and the message of Christ is a powerful legacy that continues to bear fruit. I am grateful for their pioneering efforts and the spiritual foundations they have laid, which we continue to build upon today.
Clergy Gathering in Rockhampton
Before I began my ministry here in Emerald, the Diocese of Rockhampton organised clergy Inservice for all the those working in the Diocese. The facilitator was Dr. David Paul, who brought lot of positive vibes in to the group by his neuro scientific knowledge and practical examples. It was on the theme ‘The power of Spiritual self-care and Pastoral Leadership’. We have gained a lot from his inputs about intellectual humility and service-oriented Leadership. I personally have learnt that ‘Change is a choice, whatever you resist will persist, so learn to accept it.’ To do anything what you need is willingness.
Hail Storm Experience
I have experienced a significant hailstorm on the Thursday 14th Nov in Emerald, leaving the streets and surroundings coated in a layer of ice. The storm brought heavy rainfall accompanied by hailstones that quickly accumulated, transforming the landscape into a wintry scene. The sudden weather event likely disrupted daily activities, with some roads filled with pools of water and some properties damaged. Such storms are not uncommon in the region during summer season, it highlighted the unpredictable nature of Australia’s weather.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As I reflect on my time at St. Patrick’s Parish, I am filled with immense gratitude. Special thanks to my brother Fr. François SVD who looked after me so well. Thank you to all the parishioners for accepting me and making me a part of your community. Your kindness, openness, and dedication to your faith have not only enriched my ministry but have also strengthened my own spiritual journey.
The love and hospitality I experienced here have left an indelible mark on my heart, and I leave with a renewed sense of purpose and a spirit eager to continue bringing joy and service to God’s people. Anytime you come to Townsville – sing out and look for Ryan Community Centre, Kirwan. You will surely be welcomed and looked after!
Fr Joseph
