As part of National Volunteers Week, 20-26 May 2024, the St Agnes’ Catholic Parish community gathered to thank God for volunteers at a special Recognition Mass held on Thursday 23 May at St Agnes’ Church in Hay Street.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr Paul Gooley and Fr Prodencio Bognay; Bob Green was commentator; the welcome was delivered by Anne O’Brien, Leader of Mission, People & Culture; the readings by Gai Arnold; the Prayers of Intercession by Margaret Donnelly; and the gifts were brought forward by Rita Koenig and Ruth Jones.

During his homily, Fr Paul reminded each person present how special they are to God and to our community.  Later, the volunteers joined him in praying a prayer of commitment, part of which read: ‘In response to your call to me, Lord Jesus, I give you my hands to do your work. I give you my feet to go your way’.

At the conclusion of a beautiful Mass, volunteers were presented with a small gift as a token of the Parish’s appreciation for their efforts and a light lunch was shared in the Parish Hall.

It was a heartwarming afternoon, filled with gratitude and appreciation for our incredible volunteers.