News from the Central West
18 April, 2023
Easter is a time for new beginnings, and this year has been extra special in the Central West with the baptism of 5 young children. After a hectic Holy Week, Fr Shaiju began Easter Sunday with morning Mass and a baptism for a visiting family in Longreach. He then went to Barcaldine where a large crowd (about 5 times larger than usual!) gathered for Mass and the baptisms of children from 3 families. Fr Shaiju then travelled on to Blackall for afternoon Mass, before commencing his hard earned annual leave.
We are grateful once again to Fr Terry Loth for answering the call to minister during Fr Shaiju’s absence. We are especially grateful that he brought forward his travel plans in order to celebrate the baptism of a 6 week old baby in Aramac on Easter Tuesday. St John’s Church was almost packed as friends and extended family travelled long distances to joyfully welcome Addison into the Catholic Church.
Celebration of 70th Wedding Anniversary
Parishioners, family and friends gathered at Sacred Heart Church, Barcaldine on Thursday 6th April to celebrate Mass and the 70th Wedding Anniversary of Jim & Patsy Lynch. During Mass Fr Shaiju presented Jim & Patsy with a Papal Blessing. Family and parishioners also worked hard to prepare and host a lovely morning tea in the back of the Church after Mass. The highlight was the wonderful company, but a close second was the beautiful celebration cake made and decorated by their three daughters and one of their granddaughters.
The Lynch and Devery families were united by Jim & Patsy’s marriage at St Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane on 6th April 1953. Jim & Patsy then returned to the Central West, where they went on to raise five children on their sheep and cattle station. During the past 70 years it is fair to say that they have experienced all the joys and difficulties of sharing a home, parenthood, ill health, a business, and indeed ‘life’ together. In recent years Jim & Patsy have retired to town, where they remain committed to the practise of their faith and their involvement in the local Parish. The regularity of visits from their children (many of whom live in South-East Queensland), is testament to their strong Christian and family values. May God continue to bless their marriage.
