ST JOHN THE BAPTIST DAY 2026.

On Sunday 28^th June, St John the Baptist Parish came together to celebrate Mass in honour of our Patron Saint, St John the Baptist. There was a feeling of celebration in the church, and we began with a rousing rendition of the hymn: Prepare the way of the Lord! A song which fitted our theme perfectly. The choir was in strong voice with representation from the Saturday Night Mass musician as well as our Sunday music team including many youth members. Our accompanists were Peter Russo on Piano and Kevin Woodhouse on guitar.

Vicente was the lector, and Louis and Suji brought up the offertory gifts. Carole, Peter, Henner & Connie were our Eucharistic Ministers. Sue was a wonderful help dressing the altar and assisting in many ways.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr Thomas, with Eduardo as altar server. We received some great insights about St John the Baptist. Father spoke of the joy and gratitude that we have, being able to gather and to thank the Lord for all the blessings he has poured upon us, in our families, our community and our parish – as well as blessings in our journey of faith. He spoke about the faithfulness of God, and about his timing – and about John’s mission preparing the way of the Lord. St John the Baptist’s humility, courage and faithfulness. He also spoke about our mission – to be a people who point toward Jesus – in our welcome, our service, our prayer and our love. I particularly liked the part where Fr Thomas told us that our parish is not simply a building, or a place that we come for Mass, but a family of Faith, where everyone belongs. Fr Thomas also reminded us that in “Preparing the way for the Lord”, we should consider if there someone that “I “need to forgive, to welcome, to love more patiently? And he offered us a challenge – as we gather for the refreshments and fellowship may we strengthen the bonds of our friendship by coming to know each other more through simple moments of talking, smiling, listening and sharing. He ended the homily with a blessing for us all.

After the Mass, we headed over to the school hall, to enjoy some refreshments, and time to fellowship together. There was a lovely spread of food to enjoy, beautifully presented by our hospitality helpers. It made me think of all the parishioners who had brought along food to share so generously. It was a wonderful celebration of Community.

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Reflection by Maree Wilson

Photos by Daniel