From the REC
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13; Be guided by the Spirit.
Gospel: John 20:19-23; The Spirit will guide the Apostles to all truth.
Why is Pentecost important? It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and other disciples following the Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ (Acts of the Apostles, chapter 2), and it marks the beginning of the Christian church's mission to the world.
Happy Birthday to the Church! Jesus’ followers were gathered together for Pentecost, and the Holy Spirit “filled the whole house where they were sitting” (Acts2:2). “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4).
Our Lady Help of Christians - Patron Saint of Australia
There are two paintings, one in St Mary's Cathedral and the other is found in Rome, at the Domus Australia. If you wish to read more about Domus Australia, this is the link. If you have the good fortune to visit Domus Australia, you will enjoy an overview of all the important Catholics who have had significant impacts on Australia's Catholic history.
Who is this Mary?
Mary Help of Christians is the Patroness of Australia. The establishment of the feast has an interesting history, and a unique place in the Catholic history of Australia. The feast focuses on Mary’s help to those in need through her intercession to confront sin and to stand against anti-Christian forces.
Pope Pius VII established the feast in honour of Our Lady Help of Christians in1815. After being imprisoned by Napoleon Bonaparte, he established the feast in thanksgiving for his release. Australia, a new colony at that time, had no Catholic priests and therefore no Mass available. The faithful recited and relied on the Rosary to sustain the Catholic community. In 1844, Australia became the first country in the world to have Mary Help of Christians as Patroness.
Mary Help of Christians, Patroness of Australia
and of the Military Ordinariate
Almighty God, deepen in our hearts
our love of Mary Help of Christians.
Through her prayers and under her protection,
may the light of Christ shine over our land.
May Australia be granted harmony, justice and peace.
Grant wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens.
Bless especially the men and women
of the Australian Defence Force and their families.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord.
Amen.
Mary Help of Christians, pray for us.
Lead up to Champagant Day
From now till Champagnat Day in week 6, the College will commence every Monday with prayer and each day will focus on one of the Marist Characteristics.
The order this year will honour the Brothers and the Marist way in our work:
- Practicing simplicity
- Offer a genuine presence
- Promoting a family spirit
- Modelling love of work
- Following in the way of Mary
The fundraising dimension of Champagnat day will help young people in Cambodia.
When we bring the Marist Charism to life, we are helping our students to engage with faith, spirituality, and the deep desire to help others.
They require each of us to guide them!
Are You or Someone You Know Interested in Becoming a Catholic?
Each year the parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel gives people who would like to know more, or who are interested in becoming a Catholic, the opportunity to walk with us through a period of discernment and preparation.
If you’d like to find out more information or have questions, please contact the OLMC Parish office on 9603 7373 leave your contact details and one of the Parish team will return the call.
Come join our Christian community and learn what it means to be Catholic.