ST Patrick’s Catholic Church in Manangatang will welcome past and present parishioners for a special mass and reunion lunch next month.
The celebration will honour the church’s century legacy and the dedicated community who’ve kept it alive through the years.
The day will begin with Mass at 11am, followed by a reunion lunch at the Manangatang Hotel.
Locals, returning residents and anyone with ties to the church are encouraged to attend.
Long-time resident Libby Grant said the event will be a time for reflection and reconnection.
“Everyone’s looking forward to it,” she said.
“It’s really about people catching up and sharing stories and memories.”
A photo presentation featuring weddings, baptisms and parish life will be shown during lunch, and a commemorative booklet is being prepared by the Mildura Parish.
The historic church was built in 1925, with funds raised a year earlier at a concert in Annuello.
The land is believed to have been donated by Tom O’Shannessy.
Constructed in the years following World War I, the church represented a time of growth and community-building in Manangatang.
Back then, it served as the heart of a larger parish that included Chillingollah, Chinkapook, Mittyack, Bolton and Annuello.
Originally part of the Parish of Robinvale in the Diocese of Ballarat, the church now falls under the Parish of Mildura, also known as St Anne & St Joachim Catholic Parish.
Though the congregation is smaller today, it remains close-knit and deeply connected to the church.
“We have a beautiful group of parishioners,” Ms Grant said.
“There’s a lovely sense of tradition and community.
“And it’s a very warm and comforting church.”
Among the most cherished lifelong members is Louisa Gibson, who, at 102 years old, has witnessed every chapter of the church’s history.
“She’s an amazing woman who’s been part of this church her whole life,” Ms Grant said.
“It means a lot to her and others to know the church is still here.”
About 100 guests are expected to attend. The church can seat up to 120.
No bookings are required for Mass, but bookings are essential for lunch to help with catering and printing enough booklets.
Ms Grant hopes the day draws people back to reconnect with their roots.
“We’d love people who’ve moved away to come back and be part of the celebration,” she said.
“Everyone would love to see them and hear their stories.”
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 7
Mass: 11am at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 33 Pioneer St, Manangatang
Lunch: 12.30pm at Manangatang Hotel
Bookings essential for lunch: Phone 0409 011 035
