19 May 2022 · 2022-05 newsletter
On Divine Mercy Sunday we, at Mount Schoenstatt, were grateful and previledged to have the seminarians from the Parramatta Diocese join the regular Pilgrims’ Mass at Mulgoa for the first time, together with Father Paul Marshall the newly appointed Rector of the seminary. Father Pawel “Paul” Barzczweski OP, the Spiritual Director of Holy Spirit Seminary, has been using Mount Schoenstatt for the seminarian’s regular monthly recollection for some time now. We see this as a great opportunity for our future priests to be exposed to our pilgrimage place and to be drawn to our Mother Thrice Admirable in the shrine.
Father Pawel brought along a huge Divine Mercy picture and placed it in front of the altar which added a festive atmosphere to the Divine Mercy Mass. The seminarians actively participated as readers, singing the psalm and sequence as well as serving at the altar and as acolytes. Deacon Matthew Dimian who was ordained to the deaconate in our parish, read the Gospel. Father Pawel gave an inspiring homily about the Divine Mercy of the risen Lord in connection with the Gospel reading.
We were also grateful for the presence of members of the Mary Immaculate Bossley Park parish choir, who came especially for the occasion. May Vargas, one of our Pilgrim Mother coordinators, was the musician and led the choir. Girls who were participating in a Schoenstatt Girls’ Camp were also present at the Mass.
After Mass the seminarians continued their day of recollection with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.
Some comments from regular attendees at the Pilgrims’ Mass in response to having the seminarians at the Mass:
- “Seeing the seminarians who will be future priests gives us the inspiration to pray for them and accompany their journey towards the priesthood.”
- “It is good to know that there are still vocations to the priesthood in our diocese. I will pray for them.”
- “It was a solemn Mass, the incense and singing created a beautiful festive atmosphere. Hope to see them here again.”
- “It is good to have them. It motivates us to pray for more vocations.”
Let us continue to pray for our seminarians especially for the grace of loyalty. Let us ask our Mother Thrice Admirable to draw their hearts closer into the heart of our Lord who is the high priest. Let us also pray for all priests especially those who bear responsibilities in educating our future priests.
Sr. Luisa Maria
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