AT 11.30am on Sunday morning, members of the Our Lady Help of Christians parish left Mass at St Joseph\u2019s Catholic Church Learmonth for the final time.<\/p>\n
Gathering for 161 years, and 144 in the current brick church on High and McKay Streets, the St Joseph\u2019s community were sombre but celebratory as Bishop Paul Bird conducted the service.<\/p>\n
In the last two decades, attendance at the twice monthly Masses had decreased to five regulars, but OLHC parishioners like Phyllis Bourke said the \u201cfaith community\u201d still continues, more like a family than friends.<\/p>\n
She said it was \u201clovely\u201d to hear stories from the past in the final service, having been in the parish for 48 years.<\/p>\n
\u201cI had a son and a grandson baptised here, 46 and 11 years ago. I\u2019ve got close connections to this church and whenever we came to Learmonth, we were always welcomed,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was always lovely to have a chat after and the community spirit is wonderful. That\u2019s why I look forward to Mass, to see everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mrs Bourke said she was emotional about the closure.<\/p>\n
\u201cI wore black for sadness and colour for celebration today,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Bishop Paul Bird was reflective throughout the service.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe final Sunday Mass in this church brings with it a certain sadness,\u201d he said. \u201cAt the same time, it\u2019s a time for thanksgiving for all the blessings of the years, and there have been many years that people have gathered here for mass,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
St Joseph\u2019s regulars will attend other churches in the parish, whether at Waubra, Lexton, Beaufort, Wendouree or Miners Rest.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AT 11.30am on Sunday morning, members of the Our Lady Help of Christians parish left Mass at St Joseph\u2019s Catholic Church Learmonth for the final time. Gathering for 161 years, and 144 in the current brick church on High and McKay Streets, the St Joseph\u2019s community were sombre but celebratory as Bishop Paul Bird conducted […]<\/p>\n