THE MAGAZINE OF ST ANNE’S PARISH : Seaford, Frankston North, Carrum Downs, Skye and Sandhurst THE What’s InSIDE Notes from Fr. Benneth AROUND THE PARISH PARISH GALLERY WHY CHRISTMAS HAMPERS Holy A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY 2018 SACRAMENT RECIPIENTS

FamilyISSUE 01 - 2018

St. Anne’s Parish A thriving and growing community AROUND THE PARISH St. Anne’s Parish Prayer We the people of Seaford parish strive to be followers of Jesus by being a welcoming inclusive and supportive community in which the talents of all can grow and in which we live out our faith through word, sacrament and action. May the holy family St. Anne and St. Joachim inspire and intercede for us that we may be followers of Jesus. Amen.

St. Anne’s Parish Parish Priest: Fr Benneth Osuagwu Notes from Fr. Benneth Parish Secretary: Mrs Annette White As 2018 draws to a close, we can spend blessed to be with kind, loving, generous Parish Office Hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9am -3pm, some time reflecting on all that has taken and wonderful people like you. The staff Friday 9am-4.30pm and Saturdays place and all that we have achieved as a faith and many volunteers are just absolutely 10am-12pm community of St. Anne’s Seaford Parish. gracious with their times and talents. Our Closed Monday and Wednesday This year began with the departure of our enthusiastic children from our schools Phone: (03) 9785 2580 able Parish Priest: Fr John (we thank him brings life to our parish. for his sacrifice and contribution towards I hope that in some way or the other Mobile: 0403 718 624 (emergency contact only) the growth of our parish) and my arrival in I have helped you to come to know and January. I was welcomed and accepted and experience the love of Jesus for you, as you Email: [email protected] I felt at home as I journeyed the year with have done for me. I pray that each one of us Please visit the Parish website at you all. will in the coming years, flourish under the www.stannes.com.au A CLOSER LOOK AT THE guidance of the Holy Spirit and continue PARISH COMMUNITY in various capacities to bring the love and As we journeyed, we have marked with mercy of Jesus to all in our community, Editor's Note under the powerful patronage of St Anne. prayer and gratitude, the passing of some Hello everybody, of our parishioners this past year and this As we look forward to the coming year too is an important aspect of our task in with joy and expectations, we pray for the My name is Angel bringing the love and mercy of God into grace to carry on and cope with whatever Cuerpo and I am the people’s lives and commending their lives challenge the Lord will place before as a editor of this years to the Lord. We have also welcomed new parish. The birth of this, our parish magazine parish magazine. Ever families and others into our parish, through is an avenue of bringing our memories and since moving to the Frankston area when I the Sacraments of Initiation. stories together. was in primary school Our celebration of the Church Thanks to Annette White, Javie D’Souza, I have attended St. Anne's Parish for mass. ceremonies and seasons has also enriched us other contributors and all those who made I have even completed my sacrement of and equipped us to carry on in our mission this magazine a possibility. Once again thank Confirmation at St. Anne's Parish. to our neighbours and friends around us. you all from the heart. Since entering university studying under As I look back this past year, I can most And I wish you and your families the a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Media certainly say with joy that I have been truly inner Joy of Emmanuel - God is with us. and Communication Studies I felt that I should give back to St. Anne's Parish. As a result, I decided to volunteer as the editor for the magazine.

THE Editorial Team: Angel Cuerpo, Annette White, Holy Javie D’Souza Graphic Design: Family Javie D’Souza

2 THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE AROUND THE PARISH

Children’s Liturgy The Legion of Mary (LOM). We are delighted to have begun Children’s Liturgy sessions each Sunday during the The Legion of Mary is an association of dedicated Catholics serving under Mary, our 10am mass. Children are invited to join Mother and Queen. It is the largest organisation of lay people involved in apostolic an educator, in our designated area off the works in the founded by Frank Duff in Ireland in 1932. foyer, during the Liturgy of the Word. It The object of the Legion is the sanctification of its members by prayer and active gives the children the opportunity to listen apostolic work in union with Mary and the Holy Spirit. Members meet weekly around an to the message in the Scriptures using altar of Our Lady to pray the Rosary and Legion prayers, plan and discuss good works. language that they understand. Children All works must be approved by our Parish Priest. Meetings are held 5pm Fridays at the explore the message and reflect on how they parish meeting room and you are can live this out in their everyday lives. welcome to come and have a look. We have 2 long serving parishioners Some examples of work are and 2 staff from our primary school who • Visiting the sick and lonely rotate through a monthly roster to provide • Teaching catechism to children this great experience for our children. All and adults children are welcome to join the Children’s • Hospital and nursing home Liturgy when attending the 10am mass. visitation – transporting sick and Annabelle Brown, elderly to Mass Zeeta Andrew and Rikki Winduss by Allan Sleddon Our Logo In 2011 Historical Timeline In 2011, our resident graphic St. Anne’s Hall 1960 • Commenced 3rd March design artist, Brett St. Anne’s Hall Hicks from OzEye, • Opening/Blessing 1962 designed a new, 28th October Holy Family Hall and current logo, for our parish which 1963 • Opening/Blessing depicts the Holy Family—St. Anne & St. St. Anne’s Parish 15th December • Established Joachim.The logo signifies that although • Introduction of 1964 geographically we come from several Mass in English 1965 St. Anne’s Presbytery suburbs—Seaford, Frankston North, • Built Carrum Downs, Skye and Sandhurst—as Holy Family Hall 1966 a parish we come together in prayer each • Extension completed weekend to form our very own holy 1967 St. Anne’s School family—our parish family. St. Anne’s School • Commenced • Opened with grades 2&3 1968 (60 students) 6th February St. Anne’s School ST. ANNE’S 1969 • Extensions

PARISH PRIESTS Holy Family St. Anne’s School • House Built 1973 Fr Ronald Merrick 1964-1972 • Extensions new wing St Anne’s Church Fr Dennis White 1973-1976 1978 • Council approval to build Fr Des Magennis 1977-1984 St. Anne’s Church St. Joachim’s School • Commenced 21st May • Land bought Fr Peter Conroy 1985-1994 1981 St. Anne’s Church Fr O’Shea 1995-2004 1982 • 1st Mass held on Easter Fr Alan Fox 2005 Sunday 11th April Opening/Blessing 25th July Fr John Madden 2006-2017 St. Joachim’s School 1987 • Built and opened St. Anne’s Church Fr Benneth Osuagwu 2018 onwards • Officially recognised as a 1992 building of distinction on the National Register of Historic St. Anne’s Church Buildings January • Refurbishment 2007 1st September St Anne’s Church • Consecration Ceremony – 2009 our new Altar and Lectern New Parish logo 19th September • Designed by Brett 2011 Hicks, December St Anne’s Church 2012 • New Parish Centre Built and opened

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 3 AROUND THE PARISH

Frankston Filipino St. Anne’s Bingo Seniors For over 20 years, weekly bingo sessions at the Carrum Gardens Support Bingo Centre have generated Group Inc. much more than a valued source of revenue for St. Anne’s Parish. The FFSSG group was established in From humble beginnings at Holy August 2011 with 70 members at the Family Church in the Pines, the start. We meet every second Wednesday commitment of many parish of the month between 11am - 3pm in the volunteers and bingo patrons has Holy Family Church Hall with the kind contributed to the ongoing and permission of our St. Anne’s parish priest convivial Monday night event. Father Benneth. The success and longevity Frankston Filipino Sensiors Support of St. Anne’s bingo can be Group Inc (FFSSG) strengthens the local accredited, in part, to the tireless fundraising efforts of the late Marion Meahan. community by providing support and a Due to health concerns Marion eventually retired from supervising the weekly bingo range of health activities to seniors and sessions but continued to work behind the scenes in an administrative capacity. other socially, emotionally, physically and Marion’s offsider, and now successor, Lindy Syrett has volunteered for the parish financially disadvantaged members of since her now grown son was a young student at St. Joachim’s primary school. Lindy the community through outings, dances, continues to provide a friendly face and exemplary service to all who patronise St. and other recreational activities - lunches, Anne’s bingo. public performances, line dancing, Zumba She is well supported on Monday nights by two very capable and dedicated ladies, etc. The group enhances overall health Tracey and Nicole. Competent administrative support is now provided by Vicki and well being, a sense of pride within the Abbatangelo, whose contribution is also recognised and much appreciated. Integral to Filipino community and an increase in any bingo session is a confident bingo caller. Whilst bingo may have ventured into the social inclusion and self-esteem. The group technological era, the familiar and human voice of Lesley Kennedy has called out every visits the frail and elderly citizens in our number from “Kelly’s Eye Number 1” to “Top of the Shop 90” most Monday nights for community and entertains them with our over 20 years on behalf of St. Anne’s. The continuance of cultural dances and songs. St. Anne’s bingo also relies on the security and support St. Anne’s bingo sessions are held Come and visit this fun-loving group and learn a of the Bingo Centre itself. St. Anne’s has progressively every Monday bit of our culture at the same time. developed and maintained a secure and amiable night, eyes down Call Grace - 0409 192 390 for more info relationship with management. at 7.00 pm (finish The Centre provides patrons with all the necessary time 9.45 pm) amenities to guarantee a safe and comfortable night at the Carrum Gardens Bingo out with friends and/or family. A canteen facility serves Centre, 554- up delicious hot and cold foods at reasonable prices, 556 Frankston with hot jam donuts being a long-standing favourite! Dandenong Road, Most importantly, St Anne’s acknowledges and Carrum Downs. thanks all patrons whose attendance over the years has contributed to the continuance of it’s bingo sessions. Whilst patronage may have waned since its heyday, there remains many stalwart supporters who have played bingo almost every Monday night for over 20 years and continue to attend rain, hail or shine! There appears to be a slight resurgence in bingo with many new faces in attendance. St Anne’s warmly invites and welcomes all newcomers.

Lady of Velankanni festival

The Indian Catholic Community in our parish On the final day of the novena, we had a started our Lady of Velankanni festival this chariot procession of our Lady of Velankanni year with the guidance of our parish priest Fr. around the parish which was then followed by Benneth. From the 29th of August to the 7th dinner to celebrate our Lady of Good Health. of September, we started with the rosary and We’d like to thank Fr. Benneth for his time and novena prayer every night and were blessed to leading us during the novena. Next year we’d have a holy mass led by Fr. Benneth. During like to invite all our parishioner to join and the nine days of novena, we encouraged our celebrate the festival and receive blessings from children to participate in saying the rosary and Our Lady of Good Health. Yours in Christ to sing hymns. John 4 THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE AROUND THE PARISH Seaford Housing Action Coalition (SHAC)

The Seaford Housing Action Coalition (SHAC) originated in 2014 from six ‘social justice committee’ gatherings held at St Anne’s. Using the Joseph Cardijn (YCW) ‘See Judge Act’ method, we noticed what was happening in our neighbourhood, including the sudden onset of rooming houses in Frankston, and people sleeping on the beach. Everyone we spoke with We are now working up a proposal on the who had been sleeping in cars had been cabin park model. assaulted or robbed. After being joined by In June Melbourne Catholic featured a the Seaford Community Committee, the story on SHAC: wwwmelbournecatholic. Mt Eliza St Vincent de Paul Society, and org.au/ MC/2018/mc-201807/6/ . We residents of the Seaford Beach Cabin Park, have also been invited by Catholic Social we adopted the name SHAC. Services Victoria to present at its ‘A Place We have spent much time attending to Call Home Parish Forum’ at Elwood on meetings and inviting speakers to teach us 24th October. about the daunting issue of homelessness. We have learnt many things. Firstly, that Most of our work has been advocacy: ‘hanging-in there’ – faithfully attending asking election candidates their position meetings even when nothing much seems on housing, and preparing submissions to to be happening – seems to engender trust government and council inquiries. and eventually credibility in the wider A highlight was organising the public community. Secondly, meeting people who meeting at the Seaford Community Centre are homeless has helped us understand that saved the homes of 120 people at Francis’ call to engage real people the Seaford Beach Cabin Park. We also before taking on abstract notions of justice. Seaford Parish stepped into the breach left by the closure And thirdly, it has been a privilege and of Frankston CityLife Church, taking over education to work for the common good Youth a weekly meals program for 12 months. with non-Catholic people of good heart While most of our advocacy has been and commitment, as envisaged by Vatican 2. Group specifically targeted, some has emanated Most of all, it has been enriching to Since starting in July 2017, the Seaford from our own observations, notably have tried to respond to Jesus’ question: Parish Youth Group (SPYG) has been “Sleepless in Seaford” (2017), which is ‘And who is my neighbour?’ We hope in bringing students together across schools still being considered by Councils and the future to involve more parishioners and year levels within the Seaford Parish professional agencies. in ‘hands-on’ projects, such as supporting community. Providing opportunities for Frankston Council has recently invited tenants of the Overton Road cabin park if those in Grades 4-8 to make new friends, us to present our ideas for crisis housing on that project gets off the ground. have fun and be active in a safe and friendly surplus government land in Overton Road. Moloney environment. We gather every second Saturday, from 4:15pm -5:45pm at the St. Anne’s School Hall, for group activities, challenges and games. We have done a range of special sessions, from Mother’s and Father’s day cooking and craft, to Christmas and Easter bonanzas and even an ongoing End of Term Movie Night. Both John Paul College graduates of 2016, we are a small group of dedicated, energetic and friendly young adults, who are eager to positively influence the youth of our parish and community. For more details and any questions, please visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/ seafordyouth. Rachel and Lauren Gibbs

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 5 PARISH GALLERY

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THE YEAR IN PICTURES 1. Easter Night Vigil 8. Father with the RCIA candidates 15. Parishioners with Father Benneth and 2. Parishioner Alice Feeney celebrates her 9. Our Lady of Fatima at St. Anne’s Church Bishop Peter Elliott 98th birthday 10. First Holy Communication mass 16. Holy Family Church - North Frankston mass attendants 3. The Altar for Good Friday service 11. Confirmation mass 4. Blessing of teachers by Father Benneth 17. Father Benneth with Father John at a 12. Our Lady Gate of Heaven Presidium parishioners 25th wedding anniversary 5. Father Benneth with Father Raffaele Rossi - St. Anne’s Junior Legion celebration 6. Patrick’s Day celebrations 13. Saint Anne’s Choir 18. Golden Jubilee Mass - Fr Des Magennis 7. Commitment Mass for the children going 14. Tim Staples - Talk at St Anne’s Church who built St. Anne’s Church, Bishop Elliott to receive their sacraments and Father Benneth

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 7 AROUND THE PARISH Why Christmas Hampers? For the past 7 years or so, as a sub-committee of St. Anne’s each child/family at the school brings an item for the hampers which has been a great success.

by Peter Vyverberg Filipino Tim and I arrived at the next house on our list of St Anne’s Vinnies Christmas toy Community in deliveries, and walked up the driveway, toy St. Anne’s Parish in hand. I knocked on the door and a little Seaford boy, about 3 years of age, ran up and said The year 1992 saw the humble beginnings “Hi Mister”. I asked if mummy was home, of the monthly Filipino mass at the Holy just as a lady with four other children came Family Church (Frankston North) and the to the door. We introduced ourselves and yearly May Flower Offerings to our Lady, immediately apologised for only having one the Mary which we call “Flores de toy while clearly needing and promising to Mayo”. Monthly mass is celebrated by a deliver four more. The lady came out side Filipino priest - the chaplain of the Filipino and whispered, “Thank you for the toys but Community of Melbourne,Victoria. would you have any food as I can’t feed my The small group of 20 people in 1992 has kids over Christmas” now grown to 100 plus. The community God works in strange ways! Just before hosts and celebrates many different activities we began our toy deliveries, Carol rang me - the Adoration of the Infant Jesus (Santo to say that a lady had made up two large Nino), Feast of Divine Mercy, Couples for Christmas hampers and would I pick them Christ, Prayer and Life Workshop, Public up and give them to someone. Yes! We had Rosary etc. Every December Panuluyan is just picked them up and had the hampers on drive, where each child/family at the school celebrated which is a re-enactment of Jesus’ the back seat of my car when we visited the brings an item for the hampers. St. Anne’s birth and is staged before the mass. The lady with the four children. school lapathon, which has been a great community also supports the maintenance “Hey! Kids can you come and help me get success. Plus Vinnies providing a $30 of the Holy Family church with services like a big box of goodies from the car?” I said to Woolies Essential cards for fresh food items, mowing of the lawn, fencing, fixing toilets, the lady and children in front of me, which parishioners, local businesses (esp Bunnings) painting the building etc. they did. While the lady burst into tears and and Frankston Council Community To date we are a very active and supportive gave us a huge hug of thanks. I simply said: Grants, a small committee have, through community in St. Anne’s Parish. “Tim we need to do this every year” our Christmas in July raffle (generously by Ana Templin So for the past 7 years or so, as a sub- supported by parishioners – thank you), committee of St. Anne’s Vinnies, with the sausage sizzles at Bunnings Carrum Downs, support of St. Joachim’s school grocery raised approx. $3,000 per year to chase up grocery specials at the supermarkets to buy/ sort/pack and deliver over 150 twin bag hampers each year to local families. If you have contacts with supermarkets, whole food outlets, wish to donate (receipt supplied), we would welcome your support. Thank you so much to my wonderful, understanding, hard working committee friends. xoxoxo FAMILY ROSARY For more information please contact: Peter Vyverberg GROUP Mob: 0432 120 704 A few families started a Rosary Group in Email: [email protected] August this year. Every Friday they gather in one of the houses to pray the Rosary together. We thank Fr. Benneth for starting this group and joining us for the prayer by Anabelle Brown

8 THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE AROUND THE PARISH Being Parish Secretary My role here as Parish Secretary varies from day to day and, over time, I am truly humbled by the stories that you share with us.

by Annette White

In 2009 I completed the RCIA program training me in what is a Some days all we can do is be with a group of lovely ladies and received all varied and sometimes a quite there to listen. my Sacraments including being baptised. I demanding and complex There have been so many finally felt a sense of belonging here at St. role. Her best advice was that features introduced to our Parish Anne’s Parish by becoming Catholic, along there was only so much she during 2018. The beautiful with a group of friends who still now look would be able to teach me, tree at the front of the Church out for and support each other. As part of and the rest I would only which was planted a long time completing our Sacraments we were asked learn by doing. How true ago is a symbol of strength and to contribute back to the Parish by taking on that has been. My role here promise of new life and growth a Ministry, and at that time I began helping as Parish Secretary varies each spring. The Parish “seeds” to prepare church decorations with Rosie from day to day and, over being sown now by Fr. Benneth Vyverberg and her team whenever I could. time, I am truly humbled through new liturgical groups, By assisting during the especially busy times by the stories that you share choirs, committees and social of Easter and Christmas I had a chance to with us whether it is exciting news such groups will also, with time, bring forth more observe many parishioners also serving in as trips away or about your children and benefits for our Parish. We are blessed to various ways to make our Church look its grandchildren’s achievements. And then have Fr. Benneth who is a modest, generous best for these special Masses. It deepened my there are the days where families are in need and visionary person working for the benefit faith to be able to reflect on the importance or loved ones have been called home to God. of us all here in our Parish. and uniqueness of each liturgical season and how we represent this in our Parish through the colours, the decorations and the music to enhance the Word of God. I have been now working at the Parish part-time since 2016, firstly administrating and liaising with the Parish Project sub- committees, then on the Child Safety Standards and other administration as needed, before serving as Parish Secretary. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the contribution of Carol Fleming for her past work as Parish Manager and for JOURNEY OF FAITH TO THE HOLY LAND WITH FR. BENNETH 20TH FEBRUARY—5TH MARCH 2019 Join me on a journey of faith to Jerusalem walking the same path Jesus did 2,000 years ago.

Brief Itinerary Day 1—Wed 20/2—Meet at Day 8—Wed 27/2—Bethlehem Melbourne International Airport Day 9—Thu 28/2—Bethlehem Day 2—Thu 21/2—Arrive Amman Day 10—Fri 1/3—Dead Sea Day 3—Fri 22/2—Visit Petra Day 11—Sat 2/3—Jerusalem Day 4—Sat 23/2—Visit Jordan—Israel Day 12—Sun 3/3—Jerusalem Day 5—Sun 24/2—Sea of Galilee Day 13—Mon 4/3—Jordan— Day 6—Mon 25/2—Galilee Departure Day 7—Tue 26/2—Mt. Carmel / Coastal Day 14—Tues 5/3—Arrive Plain / Bethlehem Melbourne

Check the flyer for A deposit of $500 is more information required and payments can (copies are in the foyer). be made on a monthly basis.

Contact Shereen on 9547 7598 or 0421 114THE 724 HOLY or FAMILYAllan 9792 MAGAZINE 4444. 9 AROUND THE PARISH

FATHER BENNETH Osuagwu Mass of Installation

Father Benneth Osuagwu was installed as our new Parish Priest of St. Anne’s Parish in Seaford at a special Installation Mass held on Saturday 16th June 2018. Archbishop Denis J Hart DD, the Archbishop of Melbourne celebrated the Mass for our parish. In attendance as con-celebrants were also Rev. Fr. Giang Tran and Fr. Neil Fryer, with Archbishop Raffaele Rossi acting as our Organist for the evening. After the ceremony we continued our celebrations of this special evening by sharing a magnificent supper provided by our parishioners.

ST. ANNE’S ST. ANNE’S PARISH FINANCE COMMITTEE PARISH PROJECTS COMMITTEE

Jeff Brown Brian Quirk Amanda Walker Peter Vyerberg Julie Swanson Robert Fernandes Tracey Parker A member of our Brian and Val moved A mother of three Married to Rosie for Part of the Seaford Over the last 13 years. Tracey Parker, parish since 1998. to St. Anne’s Parish young children, 41yrs and enjoying Parish since 1972, Robert has supported a long time Jeff & Annabelle approximately 16 Amanda is a long time 4 children, Peter Julie has volunteered the Parish by assisting parishioner were married at St. years ago. Because dedicated parishioner has been part of in the disability on Funding & and parent of Anne’s Parish. He of his previous of St Anne’s. A CPA St. Anne’s Parish sector and worked Finance Committees, children at St. has been running experience as a with over 15 years for nearly 30 years. in the areas of Thanksgiving Joachim’s School, his own business Manager/Accountant experience in the All 4 of his children administration campaigns, is a member of our for 15 years and he was pleased Funds Management attended St Anne’s and bookkeeping Fundraising activities committee who is happy to be on to accept Father industry, she is very School. He has worked performing these and Parish events. He will be liaising with the Parish Finance Benneth’s invitation to pleased to be a as a teacher, trainer & tasks at St. Anne’s also ran the Parish us and the local committee. join the Parish Finance member of the Parish business partner. and St. Joachim’s Men’s Club for a council. committee. Finance committee. Schools. number of years.

We specialize in: • Mould fabrication and Mould repairs. • Pallet Wrapping Machines We are a custom contract manufacturer • Hand rails in mild steel or stainless steel. specializing in precision sheet metal • General steel fabrication in mild steel, components for a wide variety of applications. stainless steel, and aluminium.

10 THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE25 Peninsula Boulevard, Seaford, VIC 3198. Tel. No. (03) 9786 8188. email: [email protected]. Mobile No. 0411 982 448 REFLECTION

be a devout Catholic today. I wasn’t always a committed Catholic, though I never strayed far from God’s path, it was later in My Spiritual my life that I vowed to be a catholic worthy of God’s grace. Having completed high school, University, establishing a successful Journey career, finding and marrying my soul mate, Leanne, and generally feeling good about I have never been evangelical, as I think everyone has to find my life I felt I could no longer taking any their own way in this world, yet it hasn’t stopped me from of this for granted. That is what drove me living a life by example. back then to devote myself to Christianity BY Brett Hicks and that is what drives me now: extreme gratitude. I have never been evangelical, as I think I have never had to search for, or find of lost objects etc. Recognition of the everyone has to find their own way in this God; I have always felt his presence in and the channeling of the Holy world, yet it hasn’t stopped me from living my life. This may have been because my Spirit actually helped me to pray, especially a life by example. My wife and I have raised mother is Catholic and brought me up in the case of St Anthony (who I have as our children, Shayla and Braydan, Catholic with the sacraments and regular church my confirmation name). I experienced on and they have been blessed through the attendance when I was young. Although many occasions, when I have prayed to St sacraments. We always say grace before our family wasn’t a strict Catholic one (my Anthony to help me recover a lost item dinner in a practice of gratitude and prayer. father is Anglican), my mother constantly of importance to me, I would find that We give to good causes and perform reminded us of Catholic traditions such lost item. In turn that would assist me in regular good deeds to assist those in our as reciting the Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary, praying more. I was continually calling on community. We also attend mass on a The Rosary, taking us to church at Easter God, Jesus and Mary to help me in my regular basis and contribute to the well- and Christmas, as well as several Sundays daily life; to help me be happy, to keep my being of our church. during the year, and also recognising some friends and family healthy and safe, to give We thank God, Jesus, Mary, the Saints, of the patron saints. My mother would me the ability to be successful in my tasks Angels and Apostles for all the good tell us St Christopher is the patron Saint and most of all, to say Thank You. they have done for us and everyone else. of Travel, St Francis the Patron Saint of It is my profound joy in the gratitude of Our spirits are rich in kindness and hope animals and St Anthony the patron Saint God’s presence in my life that drives me to because of their presence in our life. Being Catholic for me in particular was never about finding God, because he is with each and every one of us all the time, but being thankful with all our heart and soul for the grace and goodness that has been provided to us through the Holy Spirit. It is the source of all our happiness and joy.

Thank you.

It is my profound joy in the gratitude of God’s presence in my life that drives me to be a devout Catholic today.

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 11 CHURCH MINISTRIES

Altar Serving Being a SAcristan

One of the great privileges I have been As a child, I was blessed with religious able to participate in over the past seven parents, who encouraged me to live my years is being an Altar Server at Saint religion every day and in all that I did. Anne’s Parish. I first wanted to become an Receiving our sacraments and going to Altar Server after seeing my brother serve mass regularly became part of our lives. before me. As soon as I completed my They prayed with us every day, taught us First Holy Eucharist, I signed my name up to say the rosary and to thank God for all straight away, and it has been on of the best our blessings. They also encouraged us to decisions I have made. participate in mass such as singing in the Serving at Saint Anne’s has given me choir and alter serving. the opportunity to become involved in the Now, as an adult I still look for ways to Parish in a way that would otherwise not be involved with the church and to serve have been available to me. It has brought God and as a parent, to set an example me closer, and connected me more to other parishioners, other Altar Servers, and most for my children. So, I was happy when my importantly, my faith. It is an opportunity that I would strongly recommend all children of son wanted to be an Altar server. I could the Parish to become more involved in. not have asked for better role models for him than Lauren and Rachel. Every Ruairi Doherty week they served with such reverence Banking and commitment. Sunday morning mass became the start to our week and as a When we retired from the Sacristan, I try to help towards the setting- Carrum Newsagency in 2004, up of Holy Mass. I left a lifetime of business. My I can honestly say, no matter what family was brought up in the little I can do, I feel truly blessed and Pakenham Hotel, which was honoured to be allowed to do it for such a built in 1918 by our great grand warm and welcoming Parish. parents. After I married the local Shane Reeve “Bank Teller” and worked in the hotel. Two children later moved to the Walwa Hotel, a beautiful spot betwen Albury and Corryong on the Murray River. Next was the East Preston Newsagency. Two more children later, we finally moved to Carrum. The house in Seaford ‘over the road’ from the beach was with its own tennis court won us over. 28 years later, it was time to give it away. An inspired Carol suggested I do the banking. What a great job. I felt I could do it and have enjoyed it ever since. It’s simple enough, a half day every week, a report of all the different payments, bag it up ready for the bank (throw in a bit of a tidy up of the candles) and I’m done. And no you can’t have this job IT’S MINE! Margaret Batey

Great Care, Healthy Food, Best Fun Commenced on the 1st July 2008 operating out of the St Anne’s Primary School Hall, we have expanded our services to offer before, after and vacation care and we also cater for other Schools with the Seaford area operating our own bus service between Schools. Our business has been built on the following philosophies in regards to the children in our care: • We believe children should be supervised in a • We believe in providing an environment that extends welcoming and safe environment. creativity and provides challenges for all ages is • We believe children of all ages should be given the important to children. same opportunities. • We believe the environment should be warm, Feel free to contact me on • We believe we should cater for the child’s individual positive and give the children a sense of security. 0418 329 569 with any age, stage, interest and needs. • We believe that children should be offered a variety queries of healthy and nutritious food options. Moira Fernandez Director PO Box 8730 Carrum Downs VIC 3201 | Telephone: 0418 329 569 CHURCH FINANCES

End of Financial Year donations 2017-2018*

Dear Parishioners As you are aware, we are planning for our Parish Project. We will provide further information regarding this to all our parishioners soon. I would like to thank you for your ongoing financial support. This enables our parish to be able to pay for bills such as building maintenance, interest on loans, wages, Thanksgiving envelopes, heating, sacramental hosts and wine, emergencies, insurance, and church decorations such as flower and candles. Your financial support assists us greatly to be able to pay for these recurring costs. At present our loans stand at $198,993.484 — our repayments are $79,680.00 per year, plus the interest on these at around $4,725.00 annually. These original loans were $400,000 for the Parish Centre and $288,251.00 for the purchase of the Presbytery. Our insurance currently costs $14,584.00 per year. Our financial contribution to the Archdiocese is $16,990.00 as per last calendar year. Once again, I thank you for your contributions and your active support of our parish. I am grateful to see so many people and families continue to celebrate Mass together here at St. Anne’s. We are a thriving and spiritual community. Yours sincerely,

Fr. Benneth Osuagwu - Parish Priest *as at 30th June 2018 Alpha Powder Coating

Alpha Powder Coating is known for its quality, services, reliability and quick turn around. We deal with the building industry Commercial building, sheet metal, furniture, fencing, shop fitting and many more.

Contact: Jeffery Brown Ph: (03) 9791 4355 | Fax: (03) 9791 1381 Email: [email protected] 18 - 20 Claredale Rd, Dandenong VIC 3175 SCHOOLS

St. Joachim’s Carrum Downs | Principal: Paul Dwyer

St. Joachim’s Catholic Parish Primary School opened in 1987 in the suburb of Carrum Downs, and is a vital part of St. Anne’s Parish in Seaford. It is a school that continues to flourish and its school population is approximately 310 students. At St. Joachim’s Catholic Parish Primary School we recognise that we are living witnesses of God’s love. We strive to make Jesus’ vision and mission central in our lives and encourage all within our school and parish community to live a spirit-filled life. At St. Joachim’s we place a high priority on the excellent teaching of Literacy, Numeracy, and Religious Education, complemented by specialist classes in visual arts, performing arts, physical education and Italian. With a strong focus on student well being, St. Joachim’s School strives to develop every student to their full potential. We are an extremely well-resourced school with a variety of large outdoor play areas, as well as a large indoor hall/gymnasium, library, computer lab, vegetable gardens and a beautiful chapel. St. Joachim’s School 25 Broderick Road, Carrum Downs, 3201. We have interactive white boards in each classroom, as well as a 1 to 1 Chromebook program for Grades 3 to 6 students, and PC’s Phone: 9785 2633 and iPads which are used throughout our great school to enhance Email: [email protected] and extend student learning. Come and see why our students and Website: www.saseaford.catholic.edu.au families love our school and why our school embodies our school Principal: Mr. Paul Dwyer motto of “Love and Unity.”

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St. Anne’s SEAFORD | Principal: ROD SHAW

St. Anne’s has an excellent reputation as a provider of education in the Seaford area. At the centre of our school, and evident in all our interactions, is our Catholic faith. We have a focus on teaching Catholic scripture and reflect on how we can take the example Jesus provided to fully interact in the context of a contemporary world. The school has developed, and continues to enhance, strong parish and community connections. St Anne’s is a school where there is an expectation of engaged student learning. We provide for this through continual development and review of the teaching and learning programs offered which address the specific needs of all students. St. Anne’s is a school where we provide contemporary approaches to learning so each and every one of our students can flourish. At St. St. ANNE’s School Anne’s we have a very well connected community which enhances 86-94 Austin Rd, Seaford VIC 3198. the learning environment for our students. Learning is viewed as a partnership between home and school with parents acknowledged Phone: 9786 4736 as the first educators of their children. We implement well being Email: [email protected] Website: www.saseaford.catholic.edu.au programs that teach resilience and support the development of social skills. Principal: Mr. Rod Shaw The aim of our school is to prepare the next generation of community leaders who reminisce about the wonderful opportunities and joy they found in their time at St. Anne’s.

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 15 SACRAMENTS

The Sacrament of Baptism Touched by grace Baptism is the first sacrament in the catholic faith, it has an importance that cannot be under-estimated - Jesus himself said ; go and be baptised every one of you and spread the gospel. When we are presented at the font to receive the living waters and are anointed with the oils a most profound and significant change has happened to us - giving us new life in Christ because we are cleansed from original sin and become children of God. Baptism is known as the journey because it initiates our start to the new life we have in Christ. On our journey we start equipped with all we need because we nave received God’s Spirit and been made partakers of the Spirit life and he has bestowed his grace on us. BAPTISMS – 2018 • Jovan Matheo Angel • Austin Nash • Jude Oliver Macdonald • Fox Nash • Charlie Aeley Cruz • Jake Robert Sullivan • Peityn Damman • Jasmine Mila Cardinale • Holly Jean Frost • Jaden Azhrielle Doria • Holly Stillman • Eve Marshall • Eloise Rose Crowle • Briana Mccormack • Georgia Mary Woff • Raith Preston • Emily Kaia Mayhew • Kayleigh Bridget Rogan • Tyler Peter Graham • Scarlett Imogen Alward Jones • Sophia Isabelle Alward • Cora Jean Mckay • Coco Mae Anthony • Jesse Rodney Foster • Doran • Maggie Bullock • Olivia Rose Hendry • Spencer Luke Kelly • Darcy James Smith • Tiana Louise • Yuvingstan Arulraj Krishnamoorthy • Davie Horler • Keean Dominick Santos • Flynn Keen • Parker Christian Francis Brown Older Children • Evie May Clough Baptisms • Willow Jean Mowbray • Daniel Awakyr • Blair Nadene Rowles • Edward Burke • Oliver Frank Johnson • Lily Hannah Damman • Michaela Anne Gardner • Anthony Jack Pierson • Olivia Marjorie Hicks • Sally Anne Pierson • Teagan Alena Shaw • Dawson Smith Adult Baptisms • Louis Benjamin Mingot • Christie Anne Brown • James Duy Vo “Whoever drinks the water that I give • Justin Dru Waldron him, will never be thirsty again. The • Nicholas Duy Vo water that I will give him will become • Bridget Taylor in him a spring which will provide him with life-giving water and give him

eternal life.” -JOHN 4: 1.4

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The Sacrament of The Eucharist As we prepared to receive the Eucharist for the first time, we had a lot of work to do so that we understood the importance of this Sacrament of Initiation. We made bread, read scripture, attended Masses and became familiar with different sacred objects and spaces within the church. It was when we created posters of introduction to the parishioners of St Martin’s and made signs for our reserved pews, that the excitement really began to grow. We became familiar with the readings for our Masses and our assigned jobs and our parents bought beautiful outfits to make sure we looked as special as we felt. Receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus is a privilege open to anyone who wants to share in the mystery of Jesus’ sacrifice of love. The word, “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving” in Greek so every time we receive the consecrated bread and wine as the Body and Blood of Christ, we thank God for giving His life for us. We are also grateful as we remember our priests, our teachers and of course, our families and friends who celebrate with us each time we receive Jesus in the Eucharist. FIRST EUCHARIST – 2018 • Benjamin Ary • Angel Gallego • Ary • Danielle Ganuelas by Caitlyn, Andrew & Raphaella • Joseph Bondarenko • Leonie Gregson • Daniel Budge • Celeste Grimme • Edward (Ted) Delaney • Pippa Grimme • Grace Leitch • Oskar Le Huray • Lily Mealor • Waihanea Makiri • Raphaella Romer • Andrew Mille • Nicholas Shanahan • Daniel O’Leary • Tessa Symonds • Hannah Parker • Joshua Talamelli • Tara Perera • Abbey Tomlinson • Maks Radosevic • Amy Winduss • Benjamin Ramsay • Hayley Winduss • Caitlyn Reeve • James Bolt • Estelle Roberts • Benjamin Carra • Santos • Marco Chaucer • Chanel Melchiorre • Axel Cole • Ukon • Eve Cutajar-Leo • Jack Famularo • Thomas Fraser

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst.” - John 6:35

THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 17 SACRAMENTS

The Sacrament of Confirmation Confirmation is a sacrament of Initiation. When we received this sacrament from Bishop Curtin, various gifts within us were confirmed by the Holy Spirit. We took another step, a more adult one, towards becoming more involved in the Church. We accepted an invitation from God to recognize that the Holy Spirit wants to work within us and so we wore red sashes to show we are candidates ready to accept that duty. At Baptism, our parents and godparents spoke on our behalf but now as more active members of the Church, we took CONFIRMATIONS – 2018 responsibility for renewing our Baptismal Promises. As the day of • Bradley Albano • Tayla Pick our Confirmation drew nearer, we prepared thoroughly in order to • Diana Bianca Albano • Guido Riquelme-Garcia understand the importance of this sacrament. We reflected, read • Roma Alessio • Timena Robati scripture, attended Masses, researched the lives of saints we aspired • Stephanie Arcaro • Ezekiel Robati to be more like, learnt about signs and symbols and visited nursing • Olivia Arcaro • Raphaella Römer homes. It was important for us to spend time using the God-given • Johnnanton Arulraj • Alexander Rogers gifts we already possess to work with others in the community. This • Emmanuel Awakyr • Harry Sasikumar helped us realise that our gifts are not to be buried but strengthened • Kai Baldwin • Molly Schreenan within us and used to help us reach out to others. • Xavier Bright • Jack Swannie by Holly, Alex, Roma • Zali Chapman • Elli Symonds • Angelina Chaucer • Alicia Taranto • Brayden Cleland • Heath Tenner • Melanie Cochrane • Duncan Van Drie • Layla Cutajar-Leo • Scott Van Drie • Janis D’Souza • Jemma Weeks “Prayer is the best • Jack Fraser • Holly White armour we have, it is • Isabella • Bethany Whitehead the key which opens the • Jude Katsianis • Chloe Winduss heart of God.” • Chloe Paisley Adults - St. • Yasmin Papadopoulos • Millicent Merrifield • Chantalle Paylado • Nicole Newport-Ryan • Tanaya Perera • Blake Pick

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The Sacrament of Reconciliation To receive reconciliation means to be forgiven for what you have done. When you give your forgiveness to others or they forgive you, you feel much better about yourself It may take a long time to admit that you have made a mistake and even longer to get the strength to say this to God. God wants us to say we’re sorry so we can acknowledge we’re not perfect. Why would this be important to God? It’s important because as our creator, He wants us to know that He is always by our side, no matter how often we make the Wedding wrong choices. While preparing for the sacrament of Reconciliation, we learnt the Anniversaries parable of The Forgiving Father. This taught us that regardless of the Congratulations to the following couples who were blessed during mistakes we make, God will still forgive us. He does this because He August and presented with certificates from the Life, Marriage & wants us to know that He will never leave us so even when we go to Family Office from the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. see the priest for Reconciliation, He already knows what we’ve done • Joseph & Matilda Benedict • Val & Brian Quirk but is proud of us for admit-ting it and trying to improve. It’s as if • Ashley & Maryann Denetto • Rohan & Melonie God has a Resolution Book. He knows we are flawed and yet He • Jeff & Marilyn Harvey Rajaratnam loves us even though we are imperfect. When we receive forgiveness • Terry & Gabrielle Hore • Allan & Rosemary Sleddon from the priest, together, we can go to God’s Resolution Book and • Martin & Novelle Morris find the answer to fix the problems we have created. by Ezekiel, Georgia & Charlee

Funerals 2018 • Anna Dervar • Felice Chaim • Maureen Farrell • Barry Michael Fargher • Andrew Zadawzki • Len Armistead ReconciliationS – 2018 • Graham Francis Loadsman • Terrance Joseph Mitchell • John Lewis • Judy Wallis • Orlando Alessio • Charlie Lynch • Marie Honor Pierce • Vivienne Higgs • Chris Rua Antony • Sydney Magdziarz • Trevor Hales • Sally Jackson • Fina Antony • Kassandra May Maher • Chelsea Gaile Aranas • Charlee Marks • Anthony Armstrong • Sarah McHugh Our ‘Christmas Cake Lady’ • Nevington Arulraj • Charlie Mifsud In August 2018, we lost our much loved Judy Wardale to cancer. • Isabella Baguley • Nyachoop Muot Our “Christmas Cake Lady” delighted us with her delectable cakes • Samuel Balk • Harley O’Toole for her adopted village of Gokunte • Tahlia Beacroft • Olivia Papadopoulos for whom she fundraised. It was • Aiden Breen • Teresa Klein Parrocho indeed the only weekend of the • Marley Callaghan • Mason Rust year when everyone arrived early • Gemma Cruise • Lily Ryan for Mass to ensure they didn’t miss • Georgia Diaz • Owen Sparks out on a cake. May God always bless you Judy for the difference • Edel Dowling • Sahra Thomas-Hoffman that you made to so many, not only • Alexander Dowling • Jayden Timmons in Gokunte, but also here in our • Kenzi Lee Hepburn • Rafael Trias parish for your friendship, your • Ruby Hewitt • Chelsea Vriesen words of wisdom and the example • Ava June Keleher • Thomas Weeks that you set for us all with your truly • Vincenzo Lo Piccolo charitable work. by Bailey White THE HOLY FAMILY MAGAZINE 19 HolyTHE Family THE MAGAZINE OF ST ANNE’S PARISH : Seaford, Frankston North, Carrum Downs, Skye and Sandhurst

Parish Office Hours Tuesday and Thursday 9am -3pm | Friday 9am-4.30pm and Saturdays 10am-12pm Closed Monday and Wednesday Phone: (03) 9785 2580 | Mobile: 0403 718 624 (emergency contact only) Email: [email protected] Please visit the Parish website at www.stannes.com.au