On Saturday 23 May 2026, as we celebrated Pentecost Sunday, our parish community also gathered for the Final Mass at St Vincent’s Church - a day filled with prayer, gratitude, emotion, and treasured memories. For many generations, St Vincent’s Church has been a sacred place where countless lives were touched by God’s grace through Masses, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and prayer. It has been a spiritual home where faith was nurtured, friendships formed, and the love of Christ lived out within the community.

The day began with a moving display of photographs capturing the rich history of St Vincent’s - from the early beginnings of the church, hall, and presbytery, through the many moments and milestones that shaped parish life over the years. Parishioners gathered together to share lunch, memories, stories, laughter, and tears as they reflected on the life and spirit of this much-loved church community. Throughout the years, many Bishops and priests faithfully ministered within these walls, while countless volunteers generously gave of their time and talents to maintain and care for the church and grounds with dedication and love.

We were especially grateful to have Fr Mark Godridge assist in the celebration of the Final Mass, sharing in this significant and emotional occasion for the parish community. It was also a blessing to welcome seven Josephite Sisters who joined us to honour and recognise the deep connection and important role the Sisters have held within the life of St Vincent’s Parish community over many years. Their presence was a touching reminder of the faith, service, and care they have generously given to generations of parishioners and students.

Benediction was held before the Final Mass, offering one last opportunity for the community to gather in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament in this sacred space. During the Mass, Fr Paul Zaher prayerfully sprinkled holy water over the Baptismal Font, the Ambo, the Altar, and the statue of St Vincent de Paul - symbols of the faith, worship, and service that have long been at the heart of St Vincent’s community.

One of the most emotional moments came with the stripping of the altar and the extinguishing of the candles - powerful signs marking the conclusion of regular parish worship within the church. There was a deep sense of reverence, sadness, and gratitude as parishioners reflected on the countless prayers and celebrations that had taken place there over so many years.

The Principal of St Vincent de Paul Primary School spoke movingly as he presented Fr Paul with a beautifully sketched portrait of St Vincent de Paul. In return, Fr Paul presented the keys of the church to the school community, as the church now begins a new chapter as a chapel. It seemed especially fitting that a parish which began in a school building many years ago would now, in this next chapter of its journey, return to the care and life of the school community.

We are deeply grateful to DOSCEL Catholic Education for preserving this sacred place and ensuring that its legacy will continue into the future. While this marks the end of an era for St Vincent’s as a parish church, the faith, love, and memories created within its walls will forever remain in the hearts of its parishioners.

As our parish community now gathers at Sacred Heart, we carry with us the spirit, traditions, and faith of St Vincent’s.

May the spirit of St Vincent de Paul continue to inspire us to serve with humility, compassion, and love. And may the Holy Spirit, whose coming we celebrated at Pentecost, guide and strengthen our parish community as we journey forward together in faith and hope.