CATHOLIC COMMUNITY GATHER IN JOY TO MARK CHURCH’S 25TH YEAR

Gisborne’s Catholic population came together last week to celebrate 25 years since the opening of the St Mary Star of the Sea Church in Campion Road.

On December 3, 1995 St Mary Star of the Sea Church was opened and consecrated by Bishop Denis Browne . . . and 25 years later he returned to celebrate a Jubilee Mass.

He was joined by parish priest Monsignor Frank Eggleton, and assistant priest Father Tovio Lusitino.

“There was great joy of the choir, the Maori, Tongan and Filipino cultural groups and the congregation as they sang with volume and fervour stirring the hearts of the large number of people who joined for the celebration,” St Mary’s parish leadership team chairman Ross Gregory said.

The work of Fr Joe Stack, parish priest 25 years ago, was recognised and comments he wrote at the time of the opening emphasised the significance of the new church to the community.

“Here is a family home in which we can take pride and rejoice,” said Fr Stack.

“It reflects both who we are and who we can become. Its clear lines, bright openness, expansive room are reflected in our appreciation of God’s presence in our lives, in our world and in our hospitality and recognition of one another.”

Bob Proudfoot, chairman of the 1995 building committee, acknowledged the work done by the building and finance committees in the years before the church was built, and the significant financial contribution given generously and freely by the parishioners. The new church was designed by architect Paris Magdalinos and built by Story and Lomas. Mr Gregory said the Catholic community remembered with warmth and gratitude sharing the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in the transition from the old St Mary’s church in Lowe St, to the new church at Campion Road.

During the Jubilee Mass, a YouTube photo collage was shown of the removal of sacred items from the church in Lowe Street and building of the new church where these treasures now reside.

After Mass, the sharing of memories continued over a potluck meal.

“A beautifully decorated jubilee cake, made by a parishioner, gave recognition to the diverse and multicultural nature of St Mary Star of the Sea Paris,” Mr Gregory said.

“A special 25th year anniversary candle inscribed with ‘United in Christ for the Glory of God’ was gifted to a member of each family present at this wonderful celebration.”

Republished with permission: Dedication 25 Years Jubilee Gisborne Herald 3 Dec 2020