The Vigil of the Holy Family Feast Day gathered sisters of the Holy Spirit Province in Marayong at the Polish War Memorial chapel in the early hours of the afternoon. It was a time of waiting behind the closed door until, encouraged by our Provincial Leader, Sr. Margaret Kozub, we passed through the doors opened for us with solemnity and joy. Solemnity, as the moment was significant: the official opening of the Jubilee Year celebrations in Australia. Joy, as we were grateful in our hearts to God for 150 years since the beginning of our Congregation and 70 years of our presence and ministry in the Land Down Under.
The Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Kevin Redmond, the parish priest of St. Andrew’s Parish in Marayong, was as joyful as crossing over the Jubilee door. In his homily, Fr. Kevin encouraged us to reflect on the ordinary and extraordinary life of the Holy Family, and to see their unconditional trust in God amidst human struggles. Before the final blessing, all gathered were invited to venerate the relics of our Blessed Mother Foundress and the Sisters of Novogrodek. Together with our Associates and friends present for the occasion, we prayed the prayer to the Holy Family, which was given to us with the special Plenary Indulgences approved by Pope Francis for our Congregation during this special year. The Eucharist was made even more special by the beautiful hymns sung by the Young Filipino Choir of the Diocese of Parramatta.
The following day, some sisters had the opportunity to speak to people gathered in their local churches and share both the Holy Family prayer and the 2025 Jubilee Year Calendar produced for the occasion.
We are grateful to all who participated and responded to our invitation to start this special year. More celebrations are to come during the year.
