Marking a new chapter in their parish’s history, St Madeleine Sophie Barat Parish, Kenthurst, has warmly celebrated the installation of its third-ever parish priest.
Fr Giovani Presiga Gaviria, formerly of Sacred Heart Parish, Luddenham-Warragamba, was installed by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, on Sunday 18 February, the First Sunday of Lent.
“With great joy, we have come to invoke God’s blessings on the ministry of Fr Giovani as the new pastor of this parish,” Bishop Vincent said during his opening remarks.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta (left) installs Fr Giovani Presiga as the third Parish Priest of St Madeleine Sophie Barat Parish, Kenthurst. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“It is a new chapter in the life of this faith community, and I thank those over the years who have built up this community of faith, hope and love.”
Building on a legacy
In his homily, Bishop Vincent shared his confidence in Fr Giovani for leading the parish into the future.
“Like a good steward, he will work with you, the parishioners, in bringing about treasures both new and old for the benefit of the community, not just here in the pews, but those far beyond our Catholic community,” he said.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, delivers the homily during the installation Mass of Fr Giovani Presiga as the third Parish Priest of St Madeleine Sophie Barat Parish, Kenthurst. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“It is an opportunity for us to build on the legacy of the past and to meet the challenges of the future, for we are the custodians and protagonists of the Good News of the vision of the new world that Jesus preached.
“Let us show by our faith in action the words we heard on Ash Wednesday, ‘Repent and believe in the Gospel’. Let us pray that we have the courage to make the right choices and enact the values that strengthen our belonging to God, to one another and to God’s creation.”
Bishop Vincent also paid homage to the previous parish priest, Fr Vincent Savarimuthu, and pioneering leaders such as Fr Chris Dixon and Sr Anna Conway RSM for their work in facilitating the construction of the church building and a cohesive and vibrant community.
Fr Giovani asks for prayers
In his words of thanks following the Mass, Fr Giovani said that through his appointment, he can see the will of God.
“As I did in my previous parish, I assume this responsibility first of all by placing myself in the hands of God.
Fr Giovani Presiga speaks during his installation Mass at St Madeleine Sophie Barat Parish, Kenthurst. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“As I told you when I came to this parish in early January, that I trust in your prayers to help me to be a good parish priest and to serve you with love, dedication and commitment.
“I encourage all of you together as a community to have one purpose – to continue building this community of faith, following Jesus Christ and His Gospel, worshipping and working together in growing our faith.”
Well-wishes from the community
Following Mass, the parish held a morning tea celebration, with Fr Giovani cutting a cake that also served as a reminder of his birthday this week.
Parishioners shared their blessings and well-wishes for their newest shepherd.
“I hope that as he comes to this beautiful community, that we welcome him and enfold him into the arms of St Madeline’s. We’re really excited to have him here, and so far, he’s been beautiful, very welcoming, accommodating, and he’s got a lovely smile,” long-term parishioner Sally said.
In a message in Italian, parishioner Guido wished Fr Giovani a happy birthday and that the blessings of God remain with him.
Barbara Young and Jennifer Coope, the Principal and Religious Education Coordinator at St Madeleine’s Primary School, welcomed Fr Giovani to their community with open arms.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta (fourth left), with Fr Giovani Presiga (second right), Assistant Priest Fr Adam Carlow (centre back), Barbara Young (centre right). Jennifer Coope (centre left) and students from St Madeleine’s Primary School Kenthurst. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“He’ll bring new life and new gifts to our community, and we hope he stays for his full 12 years,” Barbara said.
Jennifer added, “Fr Giovani has already come as a welcoming priest here and we’re really excited to have another priest that supports our community and is always here for the students.”
View images from Fr Giovani’s installation Mass here or below:
