Eleven Second Year students received the Ministry of Lector on Wednesday evening. Originally scheduled for 13th May the Ministry had been delayed until all students could be together. Because of the current restrictions, no guests were allowed and masks and social distancing were the order of the day. But a good evening was enjoyed by eveyone. Congratulations and prayers for all the new Lectors. Ad Multos Annos.
Two priestly and two diaconate ordinations took place during the summer of 2020. Adrian Lowe (Brentwood) and Norm Allred (Meath) were ordained priest. Alex Chow (Melbourne) and Matthew Bond (Wrexham) were ordained deacon. All were ordained by their respective bishops in their home cathedrals, with very few people allowed to be present due to the restrictions of the Covid pandemic.
The 10th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia's first canonised saint, was remembered at a Mass at Domus Australia here in Rome on Saturday 17 October with Cardinal George Pell presiding. The Beda was well represented with the Rector concelebrating at the Mass and Alex Chow serving as deacon, Ignatius Tan as thurifer and Damien Locke as Master of Ceremonies.
In a sunny garden before Sunday lunch, the Rector launched the 2020 Beda Review and copies were distributed to students and staff. This year's Review coincides with the 60th Anniversary of the present Beda building and many of the articles explore the historical background. The Rector warmly thanked editor Markus Ohlsson for an excellent production.
After the difficulties travelling and the quarantine needed to be safe from COVID, the full House of 38 students, five formation staff and three FMDM Sisters finally came together for a weekend of Recollection led by Fr Peter Verity. Everyone has gathered in good spirits and ready for the year ahead. A relaxing Sunday afternoon after all the preparation is now enjoyed by all. Lectures will start in the morning.