Thank you
It is with a joy filled heart that I welcome you to the 15th Sunday of Pentecost after having celebrated the feast of the Assumption of our blessed Mother, Our Lady of Lebanon, who is truly an icon of the Father’s Mercy. Mary teaches us how to be merciful to one another. This stems from her own faith and trust in God the Father, who chose her from amoung all to carry in her womb Mercy itself.
In this parish, Mary also carries us, her children, in her womb. She caresses us, embraces us, guides us and prays with us and for us. When we are down, she holds us in her arms and sings us a lullaby of love so that we can rest and find peace in her lap. We draw beauty from her beauty, strength from her strength, patience from her patience and love from her love. She unites us under her mantle so that we can work together for the Glory of God and the good of his people.
My beloved family and friends, we have been preparing for the Feast of the Assumption since April. Over these past few months I have watched how you have all worked together in the spirit that is only befitting of servants who are honouring their eternal Queen. In a spirit that truly activates the love and mercy of the Father as exemplified by Mary. I saw the passion and zeal in your service. I felt the great pride that you have in working together for your parish. I heard the respect in which you dealt with each other. You all, so generously give of your time, talents and finances. You spare no expense in honouring your Mother. Because not only does she deserve it, but because simply ibyilbaqla…..
To our Gold Sponsors, Rockform, Dyldam and Bank of Sydney….. Thank you.
To our Silver Sponsors, Navara Venues, Western Union and Dial before you dig….Thank you.
To our Bronze Sponsors, North Rock Auto Care, Nutriscript and Montessori Academy….Thank you.
To all those who have helped preparing for the Feast of the Assumption in whichever way….Thank you.
To our 22 committees who work tirelessly in this parish not only during feast week but during every week of the year….Thank you.
To the staff of Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral who work behind the scenes….Thank you.
To my brother priests who serve this parish with all their heart….Thank you.
To our beloved Bishop who has put his unwavering trust and confidence in us, his children……We thank you with all our heart.
Thank you to every one of you for all that you do. You are the pride of your Mother, you are the pride of your Church. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis asks us to “Be Merciful, like the Father” and I say to you, be icons of the Father’s Mercy, just like your Mother.
