News from Bundaberg
16 August, 2021
Blanket Buddies celebrate 10 Years
From one woman’s dream ten years ago, the Blanket Buddies ministry has become a group of more than 50 men and women enthusiastic about crocheting blankets, beanies and scarves. They meet each Wednesday for two hours and in between chatting, cake and cuppas, crocheted creations are produced. These items are then boxed and sent to various organisations within the district, state or nation.
Noreen’s legacy is an example of stewardship in action. Noreen’s passion was to crotchet. She used her gift to help others. Two friends joined her, more were invited, and soon a bigger venue than her home was required to hold the ladies. “From little things, big things grow!” Congratulations ladies and gentlemen!
Seminarians Visit
It was great to have Dylan Asmus and Thomas Popovic visit for a few days last month. Even though theirs was a short visit they managed to meet many people at Mass and during home visitations. A visit to Bundaberg is not complete without a trip to Mon Repos beach, Bargara, and the Bundaberg Rum and Kalkie Moon Gin distilleries. Dylan and Thomas had a taste of life in Bundaberg should they return.
Catholic Education Week
Catholic Education Week was launched in Bundaberg during the 5.30pm Mass in Holy Rosary Church, Sunday 25th July. It was a very joyful expression of the young people’s love for their schools, teachers and community. The church was filled with members of the four school communities, with some children taking on roles as readers, musicians, singers, and liturgical dancers.
Mater Hospital Celebrates 75 Years
On Wednesday, 28 July, the Bundaberg Mater celebrated 75 years of serving the community with a celebratory Mass and lunch to follow. Fr John Daly, assisted by Fr Terry Stallard, presided at Mass which was attended by the Sisters of Mercy, the Mater Chair Francis Sullivan, Mater Chief Executive Officer Dr Peter Steer, Federal Minister for Resources and Water and Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt, and Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey, along with several former and current nurses and doctors who have trained and worked at the Mater over the past seven decades.
Fr John’s homily began with the lyrics of Van Morrison’s version of the song: “Have I told you lately that I love? Have I told you there’s no one else above you? You fill my heart with gladness, Take away all my sadness, Ease my troubles, that’s what you do.” This exemplified the strength and spirit of the Sisters of Mercy who founded the hospital in 1946, continuing through the years to deliver compassionate care to the community.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop
This feast holds special significance for the people of our parish. Mary MacKillop visited the Sisters of St Joseph resident in Bundaberg in June 1878 and again in late April and in November 1879. Mary’s sisters, the Josephites, opened the first Catholic school in the new town in 1876, later to be named St Joseph’s School.
The staff and students of St Joseph’s School today continue the good works begun by Mary’s sisters, and her charism has become central to many of the school’s activities. The 2021 Spirit of Mary MacKillop Award was awarded to Cruz Tolley. This award is prestented to someone who displays the same qualities as Mary MacKillop. This includes Service, Compassion, Dignitity for Others, Courages, Awareness of a Sense of God and Toleracne. Cruz displays all of these qualities each and every day at school. Congratulations Cruz!
New Additions to the Place
Thanks to a generous donation the music ministry has been able to purchase a new electronic keyboard and drum kit, music, and various bits and pieces to assist the musicians. Holy Rosary church grounds have also had a face-lift, with landscaping and pathway completion on the street side. We are extremely grateful for these new additions.
