The Nigerian Catholic Community in the Diocese of Parramatta was delighted to celebrate its 14th anniversary as a growing faith community in their “Australian” home, Granville on 8 August.
A special Thanksgiving Mass and Health Expo were held on Sunday 11 August at Holy Family Church in Granville to commemorate the milestone, while offering the community a moment to reflect on more than a decade of cultural heritage, growth, faith, and unity.
Very Reverend Peter Williams AM, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of the Diocese, officiated the Mass, which was significant as he has been closely connected with the Nigerian Catholic Community’s founding members. He played a pivotal role in establishing the community and securing a priest from Nigeria to address the spiritual needs of its members.
Fr Peter Williams AM, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia (left) and chaplain Fr Rev Chukwunonyerem (Chinonye) Akamadu celebrate Mass for the 14th anniversary of the Nigerian Catholic Community of the Diocese of Parramatta at Holy Family Church, South Granville. Image: Oluchukwu Mbachu/Supplied
The Mass was enriched with songs from various Nigerian tribes, culminating in a heartfelt thanksgiving session. Following the Mass, attendees enjoyed light refreshments, beverages, and lively conversations.
The celebration continued with a Health and Faith Expo featuring participation from the African Australian Advocacy Centre, Western Sydney Local Health District, Dental Hygienists Association of Australia, Accessible Diversity Services Initiative Limited, Settlement Services International, the African Health Reference Group and other community organisations.
The Expo allowed community members to meet health professionals, explore informative health stalls and learn about support services available to migrants and culturally and linguistically diverse persons.
Members of the Nigerian Catholic Community of the Diocese of Parramatta celebrate Mass for their 14th anniversary at Holy Family Church, South Granville. Image: Oluchukwu Mbachu/Supplied
As the community reflects on this occasion, it expresses deep gratitude to the Diocese of Parramatta for providing a foundation that has nurtured the community’s growth from six families collectively attending Mass at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, to more than a hundred families actively engaged in a variety of spiritual and communal activities.
Chibuikem Michael Adilieme and Esther Nwosu are members of the Nigerian Catholic Community of the Diocese of Parramatta.
