It was a crisp and breezy Pentecost morning this year, but that didn’t deter the more than 500 people who gathered at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Toowoomba for a vibrant Multicultural Mass. The Mass was a celebration of both the birth of the Church and the rich cultural diversity of the local Catholic community. The cathedral was filled with many people, including families, who were dressed in clothing representing their heritage. The bright colours, bold patterns, and sparkling fabrics created a joyful and festive atmosphere.
The celebration was the vision of Fr Brian Redondo, who hoped to bring people together in faith and fellowship. “No matter where we come from, we belong here,” he wrote in this week’s St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish newsletter. “We are companions on the journey.” That spirit of belonging was felt throughout the morning.
The entrance procession set the tone, with representatives from over a dozen cultural communities proudly walking together, symbolising the unity of the Church. The Mass beautifully echoed the Pentecost story, where people of many nations heard the Gospel in their own language. This was brought to life through the Prayers of the Faithful, spoken in multiple languages, and hymns sung in a rich blend of dialects. One attendee shared, “I was moved hearing prayers and hymns not only in my language but in so many others. Hearing the Our Father prayed together in different languages at the same time was very special.”
Bishop Ken Howell, who presided over the Mass, reflected on the meaning of Pentecost in his homily, “The Holy Spirit is not confined to one place or people. It is the Spirit that unites us in our diversity.” Bishop Ken also offered heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the celebration, “This Mass is a beautiful witness to the universal Church alive in our diocese.” Special thanks were extended to the many community leaders and volunteers who helped organise the event, representing cultures from the Philippines to Kenya, Fiji to Lebanon, and many more.
Following the Mass, the celebration continued with a multicultural morning tea in the cathedral grounds. Tables were filled with delicious food from around the world, lovingly prepared and shared by parishioners. A presentation highlighted the countries represented, offering a deeper appreciation of the community’s diversity.
The Multicultural Mass was more than just a liturgical celebration; it was a joyful expression of unity, faith, and friendship. It reminded all in attendance that the Catholic Church is truly universal: one faith, many faces, all guided by the Spirit.