The early years for an Assistant Priest are crucial. I have had the blessing of spending those years at Our Lady of Pentecost Parish. During this time, there are numerous people for whom I am grateful.
I was fortunate to share ministry and work alongside two great Parish Priests, Father Brendan Reed and Father Sang Ho. Both are extremely gifted priests. Among the many things Fr Brendan helped me with was to think outside the box when it comes to ministering to a big and diverse parish like ours. And I thank Fr Sang for his encouragement to help me step outside my comfort zone. They have both left their mark on me. I thank them especially for the way they go about their ministry – it shows how much the Church means to them.
The office staff, whom I spent a great deal of time with – Kate Baines, Nanette Giovannini, Sally McIntosh, Tricia Norman, and Katarina Steele – their expertise is outstanding. The best training in administration that anyone can ask for. Their love for the Church is reflected in their work ethic, careful consideration, and professionalism.
For our volunteers, their gifts, contributions, and many sacrifices make the parish truly a place where the Gospel comes alive. Their service to the community is quite remarkable.
For all those who serve our schools. I enjoy seeing the students getting involved in Masses and parish activities. Thank you to the principals and teachers who encourage and support them and give them every opportunity to explore their faith through education.
At the same time, I had the blessing of learning from both highly experienced and newly ordained priests. I thank Archbishop Hart, Father Frank O’Loughlin, Fr Tien Tran and Fr Steve Tynan.
I have faith that the parish will support the new Assistant Priest, Fr Ian Vergel, with the same courtesy, patience, respect, and friendship that I greatly enjoyed.
I leave Our Lady of Pentecost Parish with many fond memories and gratitude, but the story of faith and community we shared will remain forever in my heart.
19 Brenbeal Street, Balwyn VIC 3103
Telephone: 03 9816 9291
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Tue - Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Laura and Fulvio Facci says:
Thank you Father Huang for your ministering to us at Our Lady of Good Counsel. We will miss your gentle ways & trust that your new parishioners will enfold you in their love. God Bless you always.
Bridget Larkin says:
Fr Hoang, we have been blessed by your ministry, thank you!
I pray your future role is in the midst of another welcoming community.
Happy Christmas!
God Bless you,
Bridget Larkin
Trish Fisher says:
Thank you Father Hoang – it has been an absolute pleasure to have you ministering to us here in Surrey Hills. Best wishes in your new Parish.
Ray says:
Thank you Father Hoang for your ministering to us these last few years. It has been greatly appreciated.
Natalie Vander Sluys says:
Thank you Fr Hoang for celebrating the Sacraments and Eucharists with the students at Genazzano. You are so loved here and your presence this year at the Reflection Day for the Sacrament of Confirmation was so special. Go in peace and I’m sure that your gifts and gentleness will help many in your new parish. They are so lucky to have you.