Delegation of Australia

Thanksgiving in St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Adelaide

          On Sunday, 30 April 2006, the Archbishop of Adelaide, the most Rev. Philip Wilson, celebrated a Mass of thanksgiving in St. Francis Xavier Cathedral to mark the 50 Years of Pastorelle presence in Australia. As he was unable to be part of the celebrations held in Melbourne late last year, he was keen to personally express his gratitude for the contribution the Sisters have made to the life of the Church over so many years and in a special way for the twenty six years of pastoral presence in the Church of Adelaide.
 

          Sr. Rita Ruzzene, Delegate Superior, and Sr. Mary La Bruna who together with Sr. Candida De Angelis opened the first community in Adelaide in 1983, were special guests for the occasion. Sr. Anna Genovese and Sr. Estelita Manabo are currently engaged in full time pastoral ministry in the parishes of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Payneham and St. Francis of Assisi, Newton.
 

Sr. Rita Ruzzene, Sr. Mary La Bruna, Rev. Philip Wilson, Sr. Anna Genovese, Sr. Estelita Mañabo

          In his homily Archbishop Wilson told us how Fr James Alberione is one of his heroes; he underlined his attentiveness to the signs of the times, and how through prayer he was led to find new ways, use modern means, to bring the Good News to the people of his and our times. The Pastorelle Sisters, through their ministry of pastoral care, help build Christian communities and make present the love and compassion of God for all his people.
 

          The Mass was very well attended and many people stayed back to congratulate us. Following the Eucharistic celebration we shared a delicious meal with the Archbishop.