Celebrating Consecrated Life

On 20 May, Consecrated women and men from across the Diocese of Parramatta gathered for Mass in the Chapel of Our Lady of Czestochowa at Marayong to celebrate the gift of religious life.

Bishop pf Diocese of Parramatta Vincent Long OFM Conv invited those present to give thanks for their unique charisms and to renew their commitment to living the radical love of God. He reminded the gathering that religious life is “not about numbers, prestige or influence. Primarily it is about embodying God’s radical love—the kind of love that Jesus demonstrated.”

Acknowledging the reality of declining numbers, Bishop Vincent offered a message of hope, encouraging Religious to see this as a time of “new possibilities, of pioneering and trailblazing.”

Following Mass, the community gathered for a celebratory dinner where Br Michael Green FMS delivered an occasssional address entitled Keeping our Founders’ Charisms Charismatic. Reflecting on the often-misunderstood meaning of charism, he explained that it is not something we possess or acquire but is rather “God alive in us”—the grace of the Spirit shaping who we are, individually and together.

Drawing on the apostolic exhortation Vita Consecrata, Br Michael highlighted three enduring dimensions of consecrated life: to be a spiritual leaven, a weaver of community, and a model of generous service.

The evening concluded with recognition of Religious celebrating jubilee milestones throughout the year. Among those honoured was Sr Therese Campbell SM, who celebrates 70 years of religious profession this year. Although unable to attend, Sr Judith accepted Bishop Vincent’s commemorative gift and card on Sr Therese’s behalf.

Sr Therese was delighted to receive these tokens of appreciation and the warm news of the gathering, grateful for the Diocese’s recognition of her faithful Marist vocation and lifelong service. The Willow Tree Angel she received was “Courage ‘ bringing a triumphant spirt, inspiration and courage.”