There’s nothing like a country jaunt

09 May 2012

By Mat De Sousa

Perth’s new Archbishop visits his first country parish of St Francis Xavier in Quairading’s on their 75th Anniversary since its opening and blessing.

Quairading’s Parish of St Francis Xavier celebrated the 75th anniversary of the opening and blessing of its church on April 29, attended by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB.

Archbishop Costelloe was assisted by Father Karol Kulczycki and Father Francis Kot at the Sunday Mass.

People travelled from all over Western Australia to be part of the celebration.

A special guest sat with the Archbishop in the sanctuary – Quairading’s oldest parishioner, 92-year-old Sheila O’Hare.

Mrs O’Hare attended the opening and blessing of the church with her parents 75 years ago.

Sunday’s Mass was offered for the intentions of the past and present clergy, religious sisters, parishioners and friends.

In his homily, Archbishop Costelloe encouraged all to be Good Shepherds in Christ’s image and to love and watch over those people with whom we have daily contact.

Archbishop Costelloe asked everyone to take a moment to remember all departed souls.

At the Liturgy of the Eucharist, symbols of the Quairading community were presented at the altar by two locals.

The bread and wine were presented by representatives of the parish youth.

After Mass, the President of the Ladies’ Guild presented the Archbishop with an original straw painting by local artist Susanna Edwards.

The parish hosted a sit-down lunch for 140 guests in the community centre, which included a commemorative cake.

Prior to the meal, Mrs O’Hare read her own handwritten memoirs of her memories of the church.

On the weekend of the celebration, Sister Philomena, of the Presentation Order PBVM, gave spiritual talks in the church on grace and faith.

Sr Philomena, Dorothy Burrell, grew up in Quairading and returned to her home town for the celebration.