Archbishop Prowse calls African community to the forefront

Paul Forka, Archbishop Christopher Prowse, choir mistress Yvette Djomani.

Vibrant colour, joyful dance and calls of worship filled St Peter Chanel’s Church in Yarralumla on Sunday last week, as the African community celebrated Christmas Mass with Archbishop Christopher Prowse.

“We have an African Mass every second weekend, but as the last mass of the year everyone comes from everywhere,” choir mistress Yvette Djomani said.

“It is also special because the Archbishop comes and says mass for us – it is very holy.”

With a life-long passion for singing, Yvette said the mass is wonderful because the whole congregation joins in.

“I love when people add moves, and start to dance,” she said.

“It is also good to see so many children – this is our new generation and parents are doing a good job bringing them into the church and we hope it continues that way.”

Archbishop Prowse echoed the sentiment, noting the African community offered an important perspective on faith.

“You are such a good example of family life, of marital life and Catholic piety,” he said.

“In Africa, it is boom time for the Catholic faith. When you come to Australia, you live your faith completely and let your light shine. Let other people join you in your joy and dance.”

The Archbishop called on the African community to actively participate in the Year of the Holy Spirit.

“I want you to be very prominent,” he urged.

“I want you to show great leadership and start thinking about forming groups, and mixing in with all the little migrant groups and others who have been here for years and years so that we can all know each other a lot more.

“It is a great faith the African people have been given, and we want you to have greater opportunity to share it.”