Dear Parishioners and Friends,
On Thursday the 16th of April, we will celebrate the feast day of St. Bernadette, the humble young girl of Lourdes whose faith, simplicity, and trust in God continue to inspire the Church throughout the world. Bernadette reminds us that God often speaks in quiet and unexpected ways, and that a sincere and open heart can receive great grace. Her life calls us to prayer, to humility, and to a deep confidence in Our Lady’s care for us.
Here in our parish, which bears her name, this feast day is a celebration of our identity. As a community of faith, we are invited to reflect on how we too can live with the same spirit of trust and fidelity that marked Bernadette’s life. Amid our daily responsibilities and challenges, her witness encourages us to remain close to the Lord, attentive to His voice, and generous in our service of one another.
This year’s feast day also marks the beginning of an important journey for our parish community. On Sunday the 27th of September 2026, we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of St. Bernadette Parish. Seventy years of prayer, worship, education, and community life is a significant milestone. It is an occasion to give thanks for all that has been, and to look forward with hope to all that is yet to come.
In the coming months, we will share more information about how this anniversary will be celebrated. There will be opportunities for prayer, remembrance, and joyful gathering, as we honour the generations who have built and sustained this parish community. We also hope to involve parishioners past and present, inviting stories, memories, and participation in what promises to be a meaningful celebration.
As we celebrate the feast of St. Bernadette, may we entrust our parish to her intercession. May she guide us as we prepare for this anniversary, helping us to remain a community grounded in faith, united in hope, and alive in love.
St. Bernadette, pray for us.
Fr Silvio