In this Jubilee of Hope Year Pope Francis encouraged parishioners to embark on a pilgrimage either far or near. Diocese of Sandhurst recommended five sites in our diocese. Parishioners from St Augustine’s Parish Kyabram and Sacred Heart Parish Tatura set out for Numurkah to visit the St Mary of the Cross Mackillop Heritage Gardens.

Our hosts Bernadette and Trish guided us through the inspiring story of St Mary Mackillop and the Josephites as well as the heritage gardens dedicated to them. We then gathered to recite the rosary after which Fr Uday celebrated Mass for us in St John the Baptist church. In his homily Fr Uday explained the purpose and intention of a pilgrimage. He reminded us that a pilgrimage is not just a journey to a place but also a form of prayer-a spiritual journey that brings us closer to God, and offers us time of learning and reflection. Thank you to Dorothy for preparing the church for Mass. Following Mass, we enjoyed a lovely lunch at a local hotel where friendship and fellowship among the two parishes flourished. All agreed it was truly a spiritual and uplifting pilgrimage reminding us of faith, community and shared journeying.