On Saturday 9th March, 150 guests gathered at the new St Mary’s Seminary to celebrate its official Opening and Blessing by Bishop Mark Edwards OMI. The Camberwell community and the Seminary community welcomed guests from the Oblate family, Oblate Youth Australia, neighbouring parishes, fellow religious communities, the Catholic Theological College and many others who have been closely connected with the building of the new seminary. Many even came from interstate to share in our special occasion.
The Oblate community in Camberwell started the day with the celebration of the Eucharist and Bishop Mark blessed the altar and the chapel. After our guests arrived, the liturgy commenced to bless the whole seminary. Music was provided by the wonderfully talented National Coordinators of Oblate Youth Australia. Readings and prayers were contributed by members of our Oblate family and those connected to us in different ways. Deacon Nathan Rawlins proclaimed the Gospel and assisted Bishop Mark in the very speedy blessing of every room in the new seminary. Speeches were made by the Rector, Fr Daniel Szewc OMI, and the Provincial, Fr Christian Fini OMI, who challenged us to have 20 seminarians by 2020. What a feat that will be! You better keep praying for us then.
A beautiful morning tea spread was laid out for our guests whilst Br Josh and Br Thuan escorted our guests on guided tours of the new premises. It was a magnificent occasion and truly a sign of hope for the future of the Church in Australia and for the mission of the Oblates here in this great southern land.
Please continue to pray for our seminarians and for more young people to commit their lives with courage to the Oblate charism and the Oblate works in Australia.
