As we continue our journey together as pilgrims of hope in this special Jubilee Year, promulgated by Pope Francis at the end of last year, we are encouraged to constantly anchor our lives in the person of Jesus, as depicted in the Jubilee logo. Over the first Saturdays of the past two months, we were blessed with two wonderful guest speakers: Anne Slingo and Fr Brian Boyle. Anne shared her personal Camino experience, while Fr Brian, drawing from his extensive background in Old Testament studies, spoke about the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.”
Together, they offered us valuable insights and reflections for our own pilgrim journey.
For those who were unable to attend the talks in person, we have made their presentations available, either in written form or as video recordings on our parish website. Please feel free to engage with them through their presentations at your convenience, and take some time to reflect on what this Jubilee Year means for you as a pilgrim of hope.
This Friday, more than 70 children from our parish participated in a retreat day in preparation for their First Eucharist. Led by Gen Bryant and the GB Team, the day was filled with music and reflection on the Sacrament, exploring what it means to be a Eucharistic people living in relationship with Jesus and with one another, not only within our local parish community but also with the global Church. We hold these young ones in our prayers, that through their personal relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist, they may become sources of joy and hope to those they encounter each day.
I would also like to express my gratitude once again to our Stewardship Renewal Committee, who have dedicated much time and effort, along with Stephen Littleton from Parish First, to help guide us through this important period of review and renewal as a parish community.
As parishioners of Our Lady of Pentecost, we are called to ‘review and renew’ in three key areas:
The response so far has been very encouraging. Many of our groups and ministries have been revitalised. A number of parishioners have renewed their commitment to existing ministries, and we have also welcomed new members who have stepped forward to join. We continue to encourage those not yet involved to actively participate in parish life, so that everyone can experience a deeper sense of belonging in this vibrant faith community. If you are interested in joining a parish ministry, contact the Parish Office or complete the Participate in our Parish Life form online.
Pledged Stewardship income has also seen a welcome increase, with many making commitments for the first time. Your generous contributions will help us expand our missionary outreach and continue supporting our parish initiatives.
The Parish Stewardship Renewal Committee will meet next week to finalise the report, with a more detailed reflection to be shared with all parishioners by the end of this month.
A reminder: your new financial commitments will take effect from Sunday, 22 June 2025. Letters of thanks and confirmation of commitments, along with new envelopes, where appropriate, will be sent to you before then.
Once again, I thank each of you for your involvement in this important program, and for your continued support of our wonderful parish. Your generosity and dedication are truly appreciated.
Fr Sang Ho
19 Brenbeal Street, Balwyn VIC 3103
Telephone: 03 9816 9291
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Tue - Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Lucia Leung says:
Thank you for organizing the talks of the Jubilee Year. The 1st talk by Ann gave me inspirations in considering to walk on a camino. Fr. Brian’s talk was very informative. now. Not only I know the history of Jubilee, but also how God bestows His graces through this celebration.