The significance of Ash Wednesday took on a special meaning for the people of Narrabri who celebrated their Ash Wednesday morning mass before the Cross & Icon. While Fr Vic’s homily focussed on small sacrifices we make as part of our Lenten journey (giving up chocolate, ice cream, coffee and the like!) the sacrifice of Christ was powerfully present in the Cross.
The Cross & Icon were taken to Gunnedah, where school students led a procession up the main street and into the Town Hall. Surely God was smiling down on the people of Gunnedah who gathered, as the rain held out until all were well inside. The liturgy included a dramatic presentation of the Stations of the Cross and opportunity for those present to have veneration with the symbols.
A really significant part of the day was the handover of the Cross & Icon to the Bathurst Diocese, with the Bathurst Diocesan Youth Team present to receive the symbols from the Armidale Diocese. The mixed emotions were really evident as the Armidale Diocese’s time with these symbols sadly comes to an end, while the excitement of the promise that the Cross & Icon brings was definitely the experience of the Bathurst Diocesan representatives.
We have had a wonderful time in the Armidale Diocese and the Cross & Icon have experienced a variety of events that have reached out to a wide cross-section of the community. Thanks to the organisers of all the events for your great faith, enthusiasm, creativity and care – you are all in our prayers and we look forward to seeing you in Sydney!Berna :)
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