Revellers congregate for Bethlehem Diamond Jubilee

A WARM celebratory atmosphere greeted guests at Mercy Health Bethlehem Home for the Aged last week as staff members, residents, their families and community representatives came together to enjoy a sparkling high tea in recognition of its sixtieth Jubilee.

Affectionately known to many as simply Bethlehem, the ‘Home on the Hill’ was originally founded by the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary and is these days managed by Mercy Health.

In a heartfelt speech on the day, Bethlehem’s admissions coordinator Heidi Giudice further detailed the cherished residence’s history.

“In 1962, the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary travelled from Belgium to Bendigo at the invitation of Bishop Stewart,” she said.

“Led by Mother Barbara, they began humbly taking in five patients while living in a private residence.

“Just a few years later, in 1965, Bethlehem Home was built, complete with its own chapel and convent.

“On the 2nd of August that year, the Sisters and their patients moved in, creating not just a care home, but a true family.”

Ms Giudice said with no relatives of their own in Australia, the Sisters embraced Bethlehem as their family.

“They celebrated staff weddings in the chapel, took pride in the achievements of staff children and created a spirit of warmth, welcome and belonging,” she said.

“Over time, many Sisters returned overseas (and) eventually Bethlehem was freely handed to the Diocese of Sandhurst.

“Bethlehem also thrived thanks to its Ladies’ Auxiliary. Their fares, raffles and homemade goods raised funds for residents’ needs and made it a true community landmark.”

Ms Giudice said the Home has “always been blessed” with loyal staff, many of whom have served for decades.

“Pauline Mierzejewski, (for example) who began here in 1977, (has provided) 48 years of service, an extraordinary contribution,” she said.

“Through her and others like her, we preserve not only the care but the living memory of Bethlehem’s story.

“Staff have cared for the Sisters themselves in later years and some former employees have returned as residents, closing the circle of care.

“Bethlehem has also been a place of joy and community, with concerts, dances, Christmas performances and countless gatherings in its auditorium.

“From humble beginnings with five patients to a vibrant home of care, faith and community, Bethlehem has always been more than a building.

“It is a place of family, memory and love.”

Also speaking at the occasion, Mercy Health’s executive operations manager, health and aged care Gavin Young described Bethlehem as “not only a place, but a living community.”

“It’s a community built on compassion, dignity and faith, and carried forward by the dedication of so many people across the past 60 years,” he said.

“I’d like to sincerely thank our residents, their families and our dedicated staff – you are the heartbeat of this home, and today’s celebration is yours.

“As we celebrate 60 years and look forward to the next chapter, Bethlehem’s story is one of hope, compassion and community and together we will ensure that the story continues.”