Sunday, 20 September was a memorable and joyful day for the Cathedral Parish as we celebrated our 2nd Parish Multicultural Celebration at the Cathedral and Cathedral School.

The Bishop presided at the 10am Mass, which opened our celebrations. Aunty Shirley Scott, a Wiradjuri Elder, welcomed us to Country and spoke beautifully about the importance of mutual respect and understanding.

The Entrance Procession was a wonderful expression of our parish diversity, with more than 30 people dressed in the national costumes of different countries. More than 500 people gathered for the Mass, which included readings in Polish, Italian, Filipino (Tagalog), Portuguese, Wiradjuri, African languages, Hindi and English.

Our music ministry also came together to lead the singing, making the celebration both joyful and prayerful.

After Mass, the celebration continued in the Mother Ignatius Croke Hall at the Cathedral School, where a wonderful variety of cultural performances brought great joy to everyone and fostered a beautiful spirit of unity, friendship and community.

The lunch, generously provided by many parish groups, was truly a feast of flavours and colours, reflecting the richness and diversity of our parish community.

Fr Nam summed up the spirit of the celebration:

“Today has reminded us that we may come from many different cultures and backgrounds, but we are one parish family in Christ. Thank you all for your generosity, your time and your wonderful spirit of community. Many cultures, one community; many backgrounds, one family in Christ.”

A sincere thank you to everyone who helped make our Multicultural Celebration such a wonderful and memorable celebration of our parish community. Thank you to all who prepared the food, shared their culture, performed, participated in the Mass and generously gave their time and talents.

May God bless you all for your generosity, participation and wonderful spirit of community.