St.Mark’s Parish Multicultural Celebration for Father Boni’s Silver Jubilee
Date: Sunday, 8th October, 2023
Venue: Mercy Hall, St.Mark’s School, Inala
The parish organized a Multicultural Silver Jubilee celebration for Father Boni, reflecting on his 25 years of dedication and service. The event showcased a remarkable blend of cultures and communities, representing the diversity and unity of the parish under Father Boni’s leadership.
The event began with an acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of the land, emphasizing the respect for their Elders past, present, and emerging. Jun Silva, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, then provided an opening welcome to all attendees.
A surprise video showcased Father Boni’s journey, from his youth to the present day, capturing precious moments and milestones in his life as well as including personal messages from his family in Indonesia.
There is a rich history connecting the Parish and the Divine Word Missionaries and Bishop Tim, himself a member of the Divine Word Missionaries and an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, graced the occasion and addressed the gathering.
Father Boni then cut his Silver Jubilee Cake and a traditional Indonesian cake, symbolizing his roots and the fruitful 25 years of service. He also received gifts of vestments and a mass kit from St. Mark’s Community, as a sign of their love and appreciation.
A vibrant showcase of cultural diversity ensued, with performances like the Indonesian traditional dance by the Hestiati family and speeches from esteemed guests Matheus Huang and Budi Pranoto from the Indonesian Catholic Family in Melbourne. Michelle Lynch from the Lynch family, spoke of the close bond formed with Father Boni at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Parish in Terrigal, NSW, back in 2003.
After a Blessing over the food by Bishop Tim, attendees enjoyed a multicultural feast.
After lunch, there were further performances from various community groups: the Tongan Community, Samoan Divine Mercy Community, St. Mark’s Youth Leaders and the African Community. These showcased the rich and diverse tapestry of cultures present within the parish and greatly enriched the celebratory atmosphere.
Father Clement Baffoe, a former student of Father Boni’s and visiting from Townsville, gave a heartfelt video message, strengthening the bonds of love and respect.
The Couples for Christ Australia group performed their beautiful Bulaklakan Flower dance, followed by a gift presentation to Father Boni in appreciation from the Legion of Mary.
A lively performance from the Samoan Youth Group uplifted spirits, where Father Boni was made an honorary Chief for the day and led a community-wide dance, enveloping the hall with joy and laughter!
St. Mark’s Hospitality Group then honoured Father Boni with a gift, before Father Boni presented the prizes for the Best Traditional Costumes.
In the closing, a heartfelt thank you speech was delivered by Father Boni, extending his gratitude towards everyone who made the day remarkable and memorable.
The multicultural Silver Jubilee celebration was not only a tribute to Father Boni’s 25 years of service but also a vibrant display of unity, diversity and communal spirit within the parish. The colourful performances, emotional speeches and heartfelt expressions of appreciation towards Father Boni portrayed the love and respect prevailing in the community. It was a day that undeniably left lasting memories in the hearts of all those who attended.
