By Fr Uday Marneni ALCP/OSS
From parish dinners and council meetings to classroom visits and aged care ministry, Bishop Shane’s recent four-day visit to Kyabram provided a unique opportunity to connect with the Kyabram community, listen to their experiences, and support future planning.
As part of the Parish Visitation Program, Bishop Shane spent four special days with the Kyabram Parish community — Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June, and again on 1 and 2 July.
The Parish Visitation is a time for parishes to reflect on all aspects of parish life and mission, supported by the Chancery, to help plan for the future and set goals. As Chief Pastor of the Diocese, Bishop Shane sees these visits as an opportunity to listen deeply, understand local strengths and challenges, and explore new ways to support both pastoral care and missionary outreach.
His visit began on Saturday 28 June with a warm lunch hosted by parishioners, Norman and , and members of the Filipino community. That afternoon, he visited residents at Sheridan and Warramunda Aged Care facilities, offering communion and anointing. Families and residents alike were deeply moved by his presence. He also visited the housebound, who welcomed him with gratitude.
A joint meeting followed, bringing together the Parish Pastoral Council, Finance Council, and school principals. Representatives from across the parish shared updates that led to a rich and thoughtful discussion about parish life.
That evening, 85 parishioners gathered for a parish dinner at the Italian Social Bocce Club. Bishop Shane took the time to speak with many throughout the night, creating a joyful and memorable evening. A heartfelt thank you to all who contributed food for the meal.
On Sunday 29 June, Bishop Shane celebrated Mass at St Augustine’s. Alana Brennan thanked him for his visit, offering belated birthday wishes for his 60th and a gift from the parish. Parishioners also expressed their best wishes for his upcoming appointment as Archbishop of Brisbane, sharing their sadness at his departure.
On Tuesday 1 July, Bishop Shane joined the parish leadership team for dinner at the Kyabram Club. The next morning, he visited classrooms at St Augustine’s School and met with school leaders. In the afternoon, he travelled to St Patrick’s Primary School in Tongala, where students and teachers shared aspects of school life. He was treated to beautiful singing from the students in the church—a real highlight of the visit.
We are deeply grateful to Bishop Shane for his visit and for the many times he has blessed us with his presence over the years.
Bishop Shane, you will be greatly missed. We offer our heartfelt thanks and prayers as you prepare for your new role as Archbishop. May God bless you, keep you safe, and grant you good health.
Fr Uday Kumar Marneni ALCP/OSS is the Parish Priest Kyabram and Tatura.
