Kristhine Gestano
After a barrage of hail and high winds that weekend, the heavens miraculously cleared the afternoon of the 17th July, allowing hundreds of supporters of the Filipino Mass in southeast Melbourne to celebrate its fifth anniversary at St Michael’s Parish in Berwick.
Fr Jeff Kleynjans, parish priest of St Michael’s Berwick and Fr Sunil Francis, his assistant priest, joined the special Mass with Melbourne Filipino Catholic Chaplain Fr Litoy Asis and Fr Alfred Yap. Fr Kleynjans commended the efforts of the Filipino faithful and wished for the Filipino Mass to last many countless years.
The warmth of the gathering of the community defied the freezing weather. Former Philippine Honorary Consul, Gigi Kalong didn’t miss the event having supported the Filipinos Mass from its inception. Kids offered flowers to the image of Our Lady of Fatima and prayers of the faithful were recited in different dialects.
Couple Alvin and Lucille Patricio, who initiated the undertaking, saw overwhelming support from family, friends, sponsors and the community. A raffle draw was held after the Mass and packed lechon and pancit were distributed to attendees, with some coming from as far as Ringwood.
The Filipino Mass is held every third Sunday of the month at St Michael’s Parish in Berwick.
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