New Members at Regional Festival Mass in Glebe 

 
Over 60 members gathered for a joyful combined Festival Mass and meeting for the Sydney Regional Council and the South East Sydney Regional Council on 29 September 2024, during Vincentian Festival Month, hosted by St James’ Conference Glebe at the parish church in Forest Lodge. Fr Paul Smithers, parish priest of Sydney City South Parish, celebrated the Mass.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the commissioning of two new Conference Presidents and six new Conference members. 

New members came from the St Mary’s Cathedral Conference, St James’ Conference Glebe and Redfern South Sydney Conference. Congratulations and a warm welcome to Greg Cassidy, Carmen Gravatt, Stephen Darmody, Tegan and Rod Morrison, and Anne Mulligan. Thank you for your generosity in becoming Vincentians. 

The two new Conference Presidents were Michael Burns of Redfern Conference, and Narelle Story of St James’ Conference Glebe. 

All members made a renewal of their commitment to the Society’s mission. Fr Paul spoke on Vincentian values and asked all members to reflect on “why we do the work of the Society”. He was assisted by the excellent St James Choir. 

John Walden, Sydney Central Council President, led the Festival Meeting discussions which canvassed achievements over the last year and the challenges ahead for the two regions. 

A well-attended supper followed, put together by the Society’s employees at the Redfern Vinnies Support Centre.

John Walden, Sydney Central Council President, led the Festival Meeting discussions which canvassed achievements over the last year and the challenges ahead for the two regions. 

A well-attended supper followed, put together by the Society’s employees at the Redfern Vinnies Support Centre. 

“Thanks to all who contributed their time and talents so generously to make this a truly memorable event,” Tom Story, Sydney Regional Council President, said.