The start of the academic year has been marked by both reflection and action for the five seminarians of the Parramatta Diocese’s Holy Spirit Seminary, who have immersed themselves in acts of service, including through ministering to the homeless as part of the Street Immersion program. Source: Catholic Outlook.
Their efforts were punctuated by a special Commencement Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Parramatta, symbolising their commitment to both their studies and their mission to serve others.
It also reinforces the Diocese of Parramatta’s aim to be a Church that “reaches to the margins” under its Diocesan Pastoral Plan for a Synodal Church 2024-2028.
In January, the powerful Street Immersion experience gave the seminarians a walk through the streets of Sydney, leading to encounters which provided pastoral support and care towards people living in homelessness.
Over five days, the seminarians engaged with those who often go unseen in society. They spent time at Matthew Talbot Hostel, a temporary shelter for homeless men. They also visited railway stations such as Central Station, shelters like David’s Place near King’s Cross, where they celebrated Mass; and walked through Redfern Park.
The seminarians also learned about the Ankali Project, an initiative that supports people with HIV/AIDS; and listened to palliative care workers at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst. This immersion into the lives of those marginalised in our society underpinned the themes of this year’s annual Commencement Mass for Seminarians, which was held on Sunday, March 2, at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta.
The Seminary Commencement Mass, celebrated by Bishop of Parramatta, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, marked the official beginning of the academic year.
In his homily, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv spoke poignantly about the importance of looking beyond appearances, drawing from the Book of Ecclesiasticus.
“In the Gospel, Jesus sounds a warning against pride, arrogance and judgmental attitudes towards others.
“Take the plank out of your own eye and then you will see clearly enough to take out the splinter that is in your brother’s eye.”
Bishop Long then prayed for the seminarians and staff.
“These days, the pool from which priestly vocations emerge is shrinking. Nevertheless, our commitment to quality priestly formation is unwavering,” he said.
“Your ministry to the marginalised is a reflection of the love and care that Jesus demonstrated,” he said.
“We especially pray for you as you embark on your academic and pastoral journeys.”
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Holy Spirit seminarians begin year with street ministry and opening year Mass (By Beckie Lee, Catholic Outlook)
