It is with a mixture of deep gratitude and heartfelt emotion that I share with you the news that Kate Baines has made the decision to retire from her role as Stewardship Coordinator at the end of the year. After faithfully serving our community for over fifteen and a half years, Kate has decided that it is time to bring this chapter of her life to a close and begin a well-earned season of rest and renewal.
In her letter of resignation, Kate expressed that her “decision comes with deep reflection and a recognition that the time is right.” She shared her great sense of fulfilment during her time serving our community, describing it as “a journey that has brought immense satisfaction and a profound sense of achievement.” Throughout her work in our parish communities, Kate has brought goodness, hope, and joy to many, and has significantly contributed to the growth and transformation of our parish – from a single church to an amalgamated community of five churches.
Since the beginning of my appointment, first as Assistant Priest and six years later, as Parish Priest, Kate has been a great source of support and encouragement. Her dedication, commitment, and professionalism have truly inspired me.
Next Friday, 22 August, Kate will begin her Long Service Leave. Upon her return at the end of October, she will continue working until her final day on 24 December 2025. However, in her usual gracious manner, Kate has offered to assist in the transition and support a smooth handover when a new staff member is appointed.
There will be many opportunities for us to celebrate and farewell Kate, and to express our gratitude and appreciation for her wonderful contribution to our parish communities.
Let us keep Kate and Michael in our prayers during this period of transition and wish them all the very best in this new chapter of their lives – a time filled with freedom to travel and the joy of reconnecting with family.
19 Brenbeal Street, Balwyn VIC 3103
Telephone: 03 9816 9291
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Tue - Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Alice Augusto says:
You’ll surely be missed, Kate! Thank you very much for supporting and helping our Chinese community all these years. It’s been a great pleasure knowing you and having worked with you. I admire and respect how hard you’ve worked and I appreciate the commitment and devotion you put in your work all these years. You certainly deserve a great vacation and a happy retirement! Hope to see you again after your holiday! Enjoy!
Genny and Tony Nunan says:
Thank you Kate for your happy smiling face and your dedication to our Parish. You will be greatly missed – but will LOVE retirement, as we do!
Anne says:
Thank-you Kate, for your many years of faithful service. Blessings on your future. Anne fcJ
Faye Dennis says:
Kate, you have been a great worker in our parish, quietly working to bring every aspect of parish life to fulfilment. Working in your roles I have noted your utmost professionalism in every aspect of your role. As we know “There is a TIME for everything so now is TIME for you to enjoy travel and retirement at your own pace.
Our parish is greatly indebted to your work ethic and skilled knowledge.
Thank you,
Faye Dennis