News from the Valleys Region
19 July, 2021
Fr Simeon installed as Parish Priest
The Vicar General, Fr Peter Tonti visited the Valleys Region Parish on the weekend of 3rd and 4th July for the purpose of installing the new parish priest, Fr Simeon Uchendu. The two visited and celebrated masses at Sacred Heart Church Theodore on the eve of Saturday, 3rd July, and then St Joseph’s Biloela and St Therese’s Monto respectively on Sunday.
During each of those masses, the Vicar General, on behalf of the Bishop introduced the new parish priest to the communities, who expressed their happiness. After the homily at each of those masses he led Fr Simeon to take the oath of office, part of which included placing his hand on a Sacred Scripture.
At St Joseph’s Biloela however, the Vicar General invited Fr Simeon to lead the Nicene creed after which he took again the oath of office, pledged his allegiance to the Bishop and the Church to lead the Parish in the light of the will of the Church. When these were done, both himself and Fr Peter signed the oath. The Vicar General then, on behalf of Bishop Michael, declared him installed as the New Parish Priest of the Valleys Region Parish to the applause of the entire church. When the euphoria died down, the prayers of the faithful were held, part of which included praying for the new priest and the parish. The Mass then continued as usual.
Celebration of Kiribati Independence
On the 10th July, the Kiribati community of Biloela celebrated the 42nd Anniversary of Independence of their Pacific Island nation. Fr Simeon went as representative of our parish and thoroughly enjoyed himself. The food was great.
