A lively novena commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst was recently celebrated at St Brendan’s Parish in Shepparton. The novena commenced on August 7 with the Vigil of the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop and concluded on August 15 with the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary. An evening Mass was celebrated on each of these nine days.

Associate Priest Fatherr Jackson Saunders highlighted day five as the standout moment, when St Brendan’s parishioners and the St Alphonsa Syro-Malabar community joined forces for a joint celebration.

“This was a truly special occasion,” Fr Jackson shared. “We’re blessed with many Syro-Malabar parishioners who enrich our community with their vibrant culture, faith, and traditions from India, inspired by St Thomas the Apostle.”

The Syro-Malabar term for the Eucharist is ‘Qurbana.’ Fr Jackson expressed his gratitude to the then Syro-Malabar Chaplain, Fr Joseph Kunnackattu, for conducting the ‘Qurbana’ in English instead of Malayalam, making it accessible to everyone. “It was wonderful to see our parishioners and Syro-Malabar friends praying together,” he said. “It was a beautiful time to embrace our Eastern Catholic community.”

After the ‘Qurbana,’ the celebration continued in Sacred Heart Hall with fellowship, shared food and entertainment. Each night of the novena featured live music and different priest celebrants, adding to the festive atmosphere.

St Brendan’s Parish now eagerly looks forward to its own 150th anniversary celebrations in 2029.

Syro-Malabar Youth sing a Jubilee Song at one of the Novena Masses. 

Image above: (From left to right) Graeme Quinlan, Fr Joe Taylor, Monsignor Peter Jeffrey, Fr Jackson Saunders and Mason Crosier.