Parish News
St Joseph’s Catholic Church Nandaly enjoyed a fairly quiet year in 2025—until November arrived, bringing a flurry of activity for our little church and its parishioners.
Our parish, now known as Holy Family Parish, NorthEast Mallee, had the pleasure of hosting Sr Rosemary Drum MGL and Sr Kathryn Kinsley MGL from the Missionaries of God. They were with us to lead a retreat titled Hope Does Not Disappoint, and during their time here they also worked with the children preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
St Joseph’s holds Mass at 5pm every second Sunday of the month, and Srs Rosie and Kathryn were able to travel across from Swan Hill with Fr James to join us for the celebration of Mass. An unexpected bonus for our parishioners was that Sr Rosie brought her guitar, blessing us with live music. Together, Srs Rosie and Kathryn led a beautiful Entrance Hymn and Closing Hymn, their wonderful voices adding something truly special to the liturgy. We’re sure Fr James appreciated their singing just as much as the congregation did.
During the Mass, Sr Kathryn delivered the homily, sharing an engaging insight into her childhood in Sydney, her call to religious life, and her commitment to serving God through the Missionaries of God.
As the Mass fell shortly after All Souls’ Day, those in attendance were invited to light a candle in memory of family and friends who have gone before us—always a heartfelt and meaningful moment.
At the beginning of Mass, we offered sheaves of wheat in honour of the upcoming harvest—giving thanks to God for what we are about to receive and praying for a safe season. A pre‑harvest prayer was read, seeking guidance and protection for workers, carers, and all involved. The sheaves were placed on the altar, and later they formed the base for our nativity scene.
As we only have one Mass each month, we took the opportunity to make this our Christmas Mass, followed by a Christmas meal generously hosted by the Brady family. Before the meal, Sam offered thanks to Srs Rosie and Kathryn for visiting St Joseph’s and for their contribution to our special celebration. We also extended our gratitude and Christmas wishes to Fr James, thanking him for his dedication to our parish. With his upcoming three‑month sabbatical in Rome—studying at the Institute of Continuing Theology Education—we wished him safe travels. Fr James has expressed his hope to meet Pope Leo while in Rome… good luck with that, Fr James!
We also extend our thanks to the visiting clergy who will celebrate Mass with us while Fr James is away.
Finally, a very special note: On October 11, 2026, St Joseph’s Church will celebrate its 100‑year anniversary. We would be grateful for any photos, documents, or historical information you may have to help commemorate this wonderful milestone. Please contact northeastmallee@ballarat.catholic.org.au if you can contribute.
Sam Brady