Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth from all the houses in NSW gathered with associates and friends at the Polish War Memorial chapel in the afternoon of December 29, 2024, to celebrate the Vigil of the Holy Family Feast Day.
It was a time of waiting behind the closed door until, encouraged by our Provincial Leader Sr Margaret Kozub, we passed through the doors opened for us with solemnity and joy. Solemnity, as the moment was significant: it was the official opening of the Jubilee Year celebrations in Australia. Joy, as we were grateful in our hearts to God for 150 years since the beginning of our congregation and 70 years of our presence and ministry in the land down under.
Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth during the vigil. Image: CSFN
The Eucharist, presided over by Fr Kevin Redmond, the Parish Priest of St Andrew’s Parish in Marayong, was as joyful as crossing over the Jubilee door.
In his homily, Fr Kevin encouraged us to reflect on the ordinary and extraordinary life of the Holy Family, and to see their unconditional trust in God amidst human struggles.
Those at the vigil venerated the relics of Frances Siedliska, the Blessed Mother Foundress of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Image: CSFN
Before the final blessing, all those gathered were invited to venerate the relics of our Blessed Mother Foundress Frances Siedliska and the Sisters of Novogrodek.
Together with our associates and friends present for the occasion, we prayed the prayer to the Holy Family, which was given to us with the special Plenary Indulgences approved by Pope Francis for our congregation during this special year.
The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth are celebrating their 150th anniversary. Image: CSFN
The Eucharist was made even more special by the beautiful hymns sung by the Young Filipino Chaplaincy choir of the Diocese of Parramatta.
