WelCom December 2024/January 2025
Mary Mulligan
The first Catholic Church in Manaia, South Taranaki, was built in 1886 and served the local Catholic people until 1968, when it was demolished. In 1968 a new church was built and opened and continued to serve the Catholic community.
In 2007, the Manaia Parish amalgamated with St Joseph’s Parish in Hawera. Saturday evening Mass was held every first and third weekend of the year until 2019. From then onwards all Sunday Masses were held at St Joseph’s Church, Hawera. After discussions with the Bishop and Palmerston North Diocese the decision was made to close and deconcentrate Sacred Heart Church with a final Mass to be celebrated in October 2024.
The Mass itself was held at 10.30am on Sunday 20 October, with Bishop John Adams and parish priest Fr Vince ‘Onesi concelebrating. St Joseph’s Parish Council chairperson welcomed everyone to the Mass. Over 100 people were in attendance, consisting of past and present parishioners. It was a beautiful celebration with the readings read by people who had a link with the church.
At the conclusion of Mass, one of the parishioners from the original Manaia parish gave a short history about the church and about those priests who served the parishioners over the years. A group photo was taken of everyone, followed by a cup of tea and chat.
Many thanks to all who attended the final Mass at Sacred Heart Church and our thanks to all past priests, religious and parishioners who worshipped at this church throughout the years.
