In celebration of 170 years of St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia, we are delighted to have hosted a graceful and solemn commemorative mass at the historic St Francis’ Church, Victoria's oldest Catholic Church, on Lonsdale Street. It is a place rich with significance for St Vincent de Paul Society as the church is the birthplace of our first conference in Australia.
The event hosted Archbishop Peter Andrew Comensoli, bishops and guests, including National President Mark Gaetani, National CEO Toby oConnor, our State President Michael Quinn and our Group CEO Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald AM.
During the mass, the National President paid a heartfelt tribute to Father Gerald Ward, a devoted priest from Runcorn in England who, in 1850, answered the call from James Goold, Melbourne's first Bishop and later Archbishop, to “boost priestly stock in the fledgling Melbourne town" during the gold rush. Father Ward's dedicated efforts led to the founding of the first Australian conference of St Vincent de Paul Society, just four years after arriving in the country.
Mark Gaetani, in a poignant sidenote, shared that unbeknown to Father Ward, his efforts would come full circle in 2020 with the establishment of the first UK Mini Vinnies group at St Edwards Catholic Primary School in Father Ward’s hometown Runcorn, inspired by Kevin Slattery from the Hawthorn Conference in Melbourne.
St Francis’ Church provided a wonderful backdrop for this meaningful mass. Attendees were not only treated to a spiritually uplifting service but also had the opportunity to reflect on the timeless wisdom of the Society’s founder, Frederic Ozanam and the enduring truth that "the poor person is a unique person, God's fashioning, with an inalienable right to respect".
Following the mass, a light supper provided the perfect setting for attendees to share stories, strengthen connections and celebrate the spirit of compassion and service that has defined St Vincent de Paul Society for more than a century. The evening left everyone delighted, inspired and grateful for the continued legacy of compassion and charity that defines the Society's mission.
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