Saturday 17th February 2024 A.D.
Good Shepherd Chapel, Abbotsford Victoria
Amidst the sounds and rabble of a loud community event, the bells rang out across Abbotsford, welcoming the people to our liturgy. The clergy began their preparations for the evenings celebration and entered in song.
Archbishop Raffaele welcomed everyone, then Fr Mark read from the book of Timothy, then the clergy brought the gospel among the people and Fr Matthew read from the Gospel of St Luke. The Archbishop Raffaele gave his homily. He spoke of the purification process where Mary presented Jesus to the temple of his fortieth day. He told us of the role of Simeon in translating the Old Testament and meeting Jesus in the temple, as the promised Messiah. He talks about Jesus being the light of the world, and the importance of light in these things. He then prayed for us.
The liturgy continued with beautiful song and chant. The prepared gifts were brought to the altar and then the Creed was recited. The gifts were blessed and then the clergy reminded us to remember and honour Mother Mary. Then Archbishop Raffaele lead the congregation in the Our Father prayer before the clergy sang the prayer as we reflected on its meaning and message.
The clergy shared communion and then it was shared with the congregation. At the end, the congregation were anointed as they venerated the icon of Mother Mary, and then snacks were shared in the welcoming room.
