Happy Easter – He is risen indeed, Alleluia!
After many years of restrictions to our communal worship, it has been wonderful to be able to gather together again to celebrate the Triduum — the three days that tell of the greatest miracle at the heart of our faith.
All three churches within our parish community have been buzzing with activity during the past week, including the celebrations of the solemn liturgies of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, culminating in our Holy Saturday night vigil, and continuing into today’s Easter Sunday joy!
Many parishioners will have their own highlights, but pictured here are just a few.
Good Friday saw a special children’s stations of the cross, where we accompanied Jesus on his final journey to the cross. We took time to think about how his sacrifice takes away all our sadness and shows us God’s great love. Children paraded with banners depicting some of these stations, as we reflected with words and song.
Artwork courtesy of Tanja Ilsley
The Great Vigil of Easter saw us welcome Bishop Paul McAleenan to St Joseph’s. The new fire was lit, as we welcomed in Easter 2022. During the celebration, we welcomed four new sisters – baptised into our church community — as well as receiving three adults and two children into the Catholic Church. We also had ten Confirmations and eleven First Holy Communions, as part of this unforgettable celebration! Our singers and organist lifted our worship and the servers did a wonderful job — well done everyone!
The Church was beautifully adorned with flowers by our dedicated group of flower arrangers.
There are so many people who worked tremendously hard to make this year’s celebration of Holy Week and the Triduum so special, it would be impossible to mention them all. You know who you are and we have been so very blessed by your efforts — whether it be in public view or behind the scenes!
Fr Peter, Fr Antonio and the parish team would like to wish you all a very happy Easter!
May the joy of the risen Lord pierce the darkness and bring your His hope and peace.