Happy Saint Pius X Feast Day!

We were blessed to have Andrew Chinn spend the day with us yesterday for Saint Pius X Feast Day. Andrew provided beautiful music for our whole school Mass and then worked with each class in workshops. We had a wonderful concert in the afternoon, and I think all would agree that Andrew is a sensational entertainer!

Our whole school Mass began with a fitting tribute to the late Father John who received the Saint Pius X Community Service award. Father Mathew accepted the award and will display the certificate for the parish community to view. The words of tribute for Father John were as follows:

This year, the St Pius X Award for service to our community is particularly special. The person we are bestowing this honour on can not physically be here today, although, we can feel his presence all around us.

Father John O’Doherty, a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate, worked as assistant Priest in our parish and school community for the last eight years. Father John died on 31^stJuly this year and is watching over us from heaven right now.

Father John loved working with students here at St Pius X. He regularly visited the school and was always keen to hear latest developments.

His energy and enthusiasm knew no bounds. Although 84 years old, Father John still visited parishioners and school families regularly. He carried his big walking stick wherever he went, and found all sorts of places to hang it when he would sit down.  

Father John’s sense of pastoral care and mission was exemplary. He always put the needs of our community above his own. Whether he was unwell or busy, he made time for our school community. He also loved educating parents in the faith formation of their children and was a driving force in the Sacrament Program. 

Father John was integral in establishing an eager group of Altar Servers both here at school and in the parish. He would take them on outings and assist with training. He loved to get people involved in the Mass and liturgical life of the parish.

Father John also loved to sing. We have many fond memories of him singing songs and encouraging the children and parents to sing along at school Masses. 

We are going to miss our beloved Father John, but his spirit lives on through each of those who were blessed to know him.  

This award will enshrine him in the story of our school for years to come. Those who have received this award before him and those who will receive it after him are in good company.

Father John’s prayer sums up his vocation when he said “Lord, give me the strength and energy to be able to continue serving the people of God wherever I might be’.

Father Mathew, please accept this award on behalf of Father John and treasure it. Let it remind you of the wonderful man we all knew and loved, and may it be a comfort in the day and weeks ahead.

I wish you every blessing for the week ahead.