Celebrating 140 Years of Faith at St Paul’s – A Joyful Milestone

On Sunday, May 26th, 2025, our parish community gathered in joy and gratitude to celebrate the 140th Anniversary of St Paul’s Catholic Church in Mount Gambier.

We began with a beautiful Thanksgiving Mass, led by Fr Peter Zwaans, to praise God for the countless blessings poured upon our parish over the past 140 years. The liturgy was made especially meaningful through the dedicated service of our readers, altar servers, sacristans, and choir—each contributing to the reverence and beauty of the celebration.

After Mass, the celebration continued in the parish hall for a luncheon. The hospitality team prepared a delicious meal, and the hall was beautifully decorated for the occasion. But more than the food or decorations, it was the presence of our community that made the afternoon truly memorable.

We were honored by the presence of special guests, including Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, Lynette Martin – Mayor of the City of Mount Gambier, and Kylie Boston – Mayor of the District Council of Grant. Parishioners from our neighbouring parishes also joined in the festivities.

As we look back with gratitude, we also look forward with hope. In his homily, Fr Peter reminded us: 

"We [Catholics] live a sacramental life – that means visible signs communicate to us invisible grace. Our church of stone, wood and glass is in fact a sacramental sign of the invisible church which is us: flesh and blood, saints and spirits."

"...God has not finished building this Church because new, living stones need to be baptised into her... The 140-year-old beauty of this church needs to be a mirror of the young, vibrant Church that we are as disciples of Jesus."

"Am I a builder [like them]? Do I spend my time, talent and treasure for the building up of the Church for future generations?"

"I pray our example will challenge those that follow, as much as those from 140 years ago challenge us."

You can listen to Fr Peter’s full homily here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/OOceX6tzWTb 

In the coming days, we’ll be sharing highlights, photos, and special acknowledgements from the celebration. For now, we give thanks for all who made this anniversary so meaningful.

Here is to the next 140 years of faith, community, and service at St Paul’s.

Sacrament of Confirmation 

May 28, 2025.

On May 28th, 2025, twelve young members of our community received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Paul’s Parish in Mount Gambier, South Australia.

The celebration was led by Fr Peter Zwaans, parish priest, who guided the confirmands through this significant step in their journey of faith. It was a blessed and Spirit-filled evening, marked by joy, prayer, and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Surrounded by family, friends, and the parish community, these young people received the gifts of the Holy Spirit with reverence and commitment.

We thank God for their dedication and pray that they continue to grow in faith, love, and service to the Church.

Farewell Mass for Fr Olek 

April 21, 2025.

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