The parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Wentworthville came together for a vibrant evening of fellowship, celebration and fundraising at its annual dinner dance.
Now in its third year, the much-anticipated event continues to strengthen bonds within the parish community, offering parishioners a joyful opportunity to connect beyond the liturgy.
Parish Priest Fr Januario (Janu) Pinto OCarm addressing the gathering. Image: Supplied
Reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the Wentworthville parish, guests were invited to wear traditional attire, creating a striking tapestry of colour and heritage throughout the evening of 13 February. The celebration featured a delicious meal prepared by Buddy’s Catering, followed by lively entertainment from guitar duo Smooth Grooves, whose music kept the dance floor full.
One of the evening’s highlights was a captivating Tongan dance performed by a young parishioner, showcasing both talent and cultural pride.
One of the prize winners on the night. Image: Supplied
The program also included a craft stall, a raffle with a range of prizes, and a “mystery envelope draw”, adding an element of excitement and anticipation.
Among the major prizes, the raffle’s first prize winner received a column fan, while the mystery envelope draw featured Swarovski crystal jewellery valued at $1,000.
Entertainment was from guitar duo Smooth Grooves. Image: Supplied
An auction of sporting memorabilia generated strong interest, with parishioners bidding enthusiastically on framed, autographed jerseys and photographs of their favourite athletes.
Beyond the festivities, the dinner dance served a deeper purpose. Events like these foster a strong sense of belonging and shared responsibility among parishioners, reinforcing the parish as a living, welcoming community.
Funds raised on the night will contribute to enhancing the church’s audio-visual capabilities, ensuring that the Word of God can be more clearly seen and heard by all who gather in worship.
The evening stood as a testament to the joy of community life — where faith, culture, and fellowship come together in celebration.
The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Wentworthville Dinner Dance was an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan’s priority of Community, and its goal of being Renewed in Spirit and Prayer. Visit Synodality to learn more.
