Gathered to give thanks for Blessed James Alberione and the 70 years of the Pastorelle Sisters’ presence in Australia
- Suore Pastorelle
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Every year, in November, the parish community of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Payneham, gathers to commemorate the anniversary of the death of our Founder, Blessed James Alberione. This year’s celebration, held on 21st November, was combined with the 70th anniversary of the Pastorelle Sisters' arrival in Australia. The first three Pastorelle arrived in Port Melbourne on 14 November 1955.
Fr Michael Romeo, parish priest of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Payneham, where the Sisters have carried out their pastoral ministry alongside its pastor since 1983, extended the following kind invitation online for the occasion: “Please join us tonight, as we celebrate the Feast of Blessed James Alberione! We also celebrate 70 years of Pastorelle Presence in Australia. We are very fortunate to have the Pastorelle Sisters and hope to see many of you there to celebrate Blessed James Alberione and give thanks for the presence of our wonderful Pastorelle Sisters”. Our Sr Josie Labata is engaged full-time in pastoral care ministry alongside Fr Michael.
Many parishioners responded to the invitation, as did many from the Newton parish, where the Pastorelle Sisters have served for many years during their time in Adelaide, and friends from the Hectorville parish. The music and singing were provided by the choir from St Martin’s parish, Greenacres-Walkerville, where our Sr Brenda is the Pastoral Associate alongside Deacon Andrew Kirkbride.
Sr Rita welcomed everyone at the start of Mass and highlighted the significance of this momentous occasion. During the Eucharistic celebration, our Pauline Cooperators from Adelaide renewed their promise, which added to the beauty of the celebration.
Fr Michael gave a splendid and well-researched homily for the occasion, demonstrating his devotion to Blessed James Alberione, his deep understanding of his thought, and his affirmation of the Pastorelle Sisters' presence in the parish and their vocation in the Church.
Sr Mary travelled from Melbourne for the occasion to be with the small community in Payneham to express our gratitude to the Lord for the person of our Founder, and for being with us from the very beginning, 1955 to 2025. Also, to thank Fr Michael and the parish priests before him for our fruitful pastoral collaboration, and to acknowledge the journey travelled in faith, hope and love with people of different ages and nationalities. Sr Mary referred to three significant Gospel quotes sealed in our hearts: “I am the Good Shepherd…Be not afraid, little flock…I am with you always!” And so, for all that will be, Amen!
As is customary, the celebration was followed by delicious refreshments generously provided by parishioners and the sharing of memories in the parish hall.
In Melbourne, the Bundoora community marked 70 years of presence in Australia with a simple celebration of the Eucharist in our chapel. A more extensive celebration will be held at the end of January 2026 when our Provincial from the Philippines will visit us.
Sr Mary La Bruna, sjbp
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