Dear Parishioners and Friends,
It’s a greeting from Sunshine North this time round. I returned to Australia on Tuesday, after a blessed time in Malta. There I had the opportunity to re-connect with the priests and brothers of the Missionary Society of St. Paul who are presently ministering in Malta and/or enjoying their retirement after many years of missionary work. Those who ministered in Australia, especially those who have known St. Bernadette Parish, sent their regards, and ask for your prayers. It was also a great joy to spend time with my family, especially my mother who will be 86 this month, and friends. For all this I am truly grateful.
One special highlight was the two-week meeting of the Regional Leaders of the MSSP. Present were Fr Martin (Superior General), and the General Council, and the leaders from Malta, Peru, Pakistan, Philippines and me (representing the Australian region). We spent time together, re-connecting and getting to know each other better. A three-day retreat enabled us to sit and reflect in a spirit of prayer, and then discussed topics like self-care, vocations, safeguarding, ministry in diverse cultures, financing our mission, and more. Our fraternal spirit enabled us to listen with a caring ear and respond and speak of our joys and difficulties. They were a grace-filled two weeks.
It was also a great joy to have participated in the Ordination of Fr David Pace, whom you surely encountered at the parish during this last year. He asked me to convey his gratitude for your support, regards and blessings to all. May God bless Fr David as he begins his priestly ministry in Malta and Gozo.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank Fr John and Fr Noel for coming to St. Bernadette and serving the parish community while I was away. Thank you also Fr Edwin and Fr Joe! Your care and pastoral engagement were very much appreciated.
This weekend we are welcoming Fr Can Tran MSSP who will be joining and ministering in our parish following his ordination last year. You will be welcomed with great joy, Fr Can, and we look forward to knowing you and creating community with you.
God bless you.
Fr Silvio