News from Rockhampton
17 September, 2024
20 National Flags of 20 nations representing the cultural diversity of the Rockhampton Parish community were unfurled through the aisles of St Joseph’s Cathedral signifying the Parish Multicultural Sunday Celebrations on 25 August 2024.
Aunty Ethel Speedy, an Elder from the Darumbal country welcomed the community with a resounding “Godomoli!”and conveyed her best wishes for the success of the Multicultural Sunday celebrations.
The Readings of the Word were delivered in French and Malayalam languages, while the Prayers of the Faithful were also recited in African, Vietnamese, Indian, Filipino, Fijian, Sri Lankan, Brazilian and PNG languages. There were songs in Filipino and Spanish. The African community led in the Procession of Gifts during Mass.
Bishop Michael, in his homily, reflected on the diaspora of migration throughout the world and that God is very much a part of every migrant’s journey. He also highlighted the Social Justice Statement, “Truth and Peace, a Gospel Word in a Violent World,” recently launched by the Australian Catholic Bishop Conference. Bishop Michael also acknowledged the Holy Father Pope Francis statement that we are all “people of peace.”
The Multicultural community of St Joseph’s Cathedral donated a token gift for the conservation of St Joseph’s Cathedral in honour of the 10th Anniversary of the Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Michael as Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton. Together with the cash donation of $2300, was a gift box containing pieces of sandstone from the Cathedral building that represent the community’s commitment to care for the magnificent St Joseph’s Cathedral and their prayers for the Bishop’s continued health and well-being.
The celebration at the Cathedral Corso started with a “Kava Ceremony” an ancient Fijian tradition of welcoming the Guest of Honour, Bishop Michael. It was a delightful and meaningful sharing of the Fijian culture.
The entertainment program of multicultural songs and dances, together with sharing all the special home-made delicacies from Africa, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Australia were enjoyed by more than 100 attendees and guests.
