Bundaberg News
14 May, 2021
As I list some of the activities we have experienced in the parish in the last month, I see we have been very busy indeed. Never a dull moment in Parishland!
In mid-April some in the Parish office became very aware of the diverse range of knowledge and skills that our front-office staff are required to have to run the parish smoothly. This was the week that saw our three staff travel to The Haven for the first of many, they hope, gatherings for parish administrative staff. The days away were very beneficial allowing them to see the people of the diocese who are usually on the end of a phone call, hear “from the horse’s mouth”, and ask questions about the requirements of their job. We did hear that there was plenty of fine food, drink and hospitality served over the course of the gathering. The parish stayed upright in their absence but welcomed them back with open arms.
Visit of Bishop Michael
Bishop Michael’s Pastoral Visit coincided with the children’s celebration of Confirmation and First Communion on April 27th and April 29th. After a long-delayed wait for this night the children were very excited to have the Bishop with them. Celebrated over two nights under Covid restrictions, the smaller numbers made the evening seem more relaxed than what has been experienced in past years.
During the Bishop’s visit he visited St Mary’s and St Joseph’s primary schools, attended a CHAOS Youth group for primary-aged children, and met with key groups within the parish, namely the Stewardship Council, the Finance Committee, the Parish Planning Group, and the St Mary’s Future Planning group. His visit is always anticipated with excitement and greatly appreciated.
Sr Mary Della’s 60th Anniversary
We are very fortunate to have Sr Mary in our parish. Her generosity of time given to hospital visitation and visits to the homebound is much appreciated. She has become Fr Gasper’s right-hand lady! After the diocesan celebration for Sr Mary in Rockhampton on the 1st May, we gathered with Sr Mary for Mass on Friday, 7th May, in Holy Rosary church, to give thanks for her 60 years of service as a Sister of Mercy. Afterwards the Parish Team, Sr Mary’s family and friends shared lunch together and toasted this wonderful lady.
Memorial Service
Normally held every six months and hosted by the parish Bereavement Ministry, this liturgy is an opportunity for families and friends of deceased relatives to gather and remember their loved ones. Fellowship afterwards is always a chance to share stories. Our first for the year was held on Wednesday, 12th May, in Holy Rosary Church. The symbols of light and darkness and hope helped the families a little further past their grief. Each was given a candle and a rose in remembrance.
Youth Ministry
Lizzie, our Youth Ministry Coordinator, has branched out into the primary schools this term with FLAME for young students. Lizzy commenced her first session with students last week. Lizzie reads and discusses a gospel reading and plays games with children in their lunch break. Lizzie is hoping that she can help the young ones in a fun way to know Jesus and love others.
Air-conditioning
Just in case you are travelling through Bundaberg in the warmer months and visiting Holy Rosary church, you will be pleased to know that our air-conditioning project is complete. After three months of closure, it is good to be back to normal.
Mother’s Day Tribute
I came across this saying recently and couldn’t help but think of my mother and possibly yours? “If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.”
Anne Sheehan
