In October The Waikanae Catholic community celebrated the 25th birthday of the youngest parish in the archdiocese.
The jubilee was celebrated on 6-7 October 2007 starting with a most enjoyable dinner enabling both present and past parishioners to reminisce. On Sunday Archbishop John Dew, with the help of parish priest, Owen Sinclair, presided at the Jubilee Mass. They were joined by a number of priests who had served or had been associated with the parish over its 25 years.
In his challenging and thought-provoking homily, Archbishop John said, ‘It is when we become prayerful and contemplative people that we become truly spiritual. The third millennium will be spiritual or there will be no third millennium.’ He ended with the challenge that we say ‘yes’ to the invitation of Jesus to remain in this love.
Much work had gone into the preparation of the liturgy which was very special and fitting for such a significant occasion.
Following the liturgy, people enjoyed an excellent photographic display depicting both early and recent events in the life of the parish. The celebrations ended with a delicious lunch in a nearby marquee.
The story of the Waikanae Parish is recounted in a short history and is available from the parish office – (04) 293 3767.