In this year’s message for World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly—which we celebrate this Sunday—Pope Francis encourages us not to ‘cast off’ the elderly when their hair grows white or their working lives come to an end. Rather, he says, they are the ‘firm foundation’ upon which other stones can rest to form the edifice of the Church.
In this week’s stories, we hear how Ann Rowan has provided a firm foundation of faith for her nine children and 21 grandchildren, supporting them with her love and prayers—not to mention plenty of good food—and inspiring them, in turn, to pass on these gifts to others.
Similarly, at 101, Dr Jim Villiers has lived a long life anchored in faith and love. Having survived the blitz, served as a doctor with the Royal Australian Navy, and undertaken important work in Australia and Vietnam as an anaesthetist, he says by far his greatest adventure was the 72 years he enjoyed with his late wife Audrey.
And as St John Vianney’s Parish Springvale North celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, we take a look at the people and events that have shaped this close and vibrant community through the decades.
If these stories inspire you, take a look at our new job listings section, in which we share opportunities to come work with us. This week it features roles at two of the parishes featured in this week’s stories.
