St. Therese Church, Moonah, Tasmania: Multicultural Celebration

With thanks to our PP, Bartha, Fr Partholomai Pani MSC, with us here from India.

Last Sunday, September 29, our St. Therese community in Moonah gathered for a lively multicultural celebration that highlighted the diverse cultures within our congregation. The event, fittingly titled "Unity in Diversity," brought together families from a variety of backgrounds, each adding to a vibrant tapestry of traditions, cuisines, and styles of worship.

 The Multicultural Eucharist celebration began with a lively parade of flags representing the nations of our members. Children and adults alike donned traditional attire, filling the sanctuary with colour and joy. The atmosphere was electric, marked by laughter and an overwhelming sense of belonging.

Eucharistic celebration featured a blend of musical styles, from gospel hymns to contemporary worship songs in multiple languages. A local choir brought the house down with a spirited rendition of an international Favorite, uniting everyone in song.  Father Joseph, our Polish chaplain, and I, Bartha MSC, shared our personal stories of faith and resilience, highlighting the importance of embracing our multicultural community and uniting us all as one family in Christ.

Food played a central role in the celebration, with a potluck feast that featured dishes from around the world. From spicy curries to delicate pastries, the shared meal highlighted not only culinary diversity but also the common threads of love and fellowship that bind us together.

As we gathered to reflect on our experiences, it was clear that this celebration was more than just a showcase of cultures; it was a powerful reminder of our mission to love and serve one another. By embracing our differences, we strengthen our community and Honor the Creator’s beautiful design.

The "Unity in Diversity" celebration not only enriched our faith but also deepened our connections, reinforcing the idea that together, we can achieve greater understanding and harmony. As we look forward to future gatherings, we are reminded that in Christ, we are one body, beautifully diverse yet united in purpose.

I’ve included a few photos from our multicultural celebration, capturing the joy and happiness shared among us all.

Bartha MSC