Build pathways for Reconciliation and forgiveness, Bishop Sproxton tells Aboriginal Sunday Mass

Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton called on the congregation to build pathways for reconciliation and forgiveness during the annual Aboriginal Sunday Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral on October 18.

The Mass included a traditional smoking ceremony and a Welcome to Country by Whadjak Noongar elder Robyn Collard, whose grandsons played the didgeridoo. Bishop Sproxton performed the Sprinkling Rite using eucalyptus branches. During the liturgy, the bishop recalled the 40th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s 1986 address to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Alice Springs. He noted the late pope's praise for newcomers who cared for indigenous people and shared stories of God during periods of land dispossession.

Bishop Sproxton also highlighted the historical work of Bishop Rosendo Salvado and the Benedictines of New Norcia in protecting Aboriginal families. He mentioned the St John of God Sisters for their medical care provided in the Kimberley and Perth regions. The Mass was concelebrated by former Embleton Parish Priest Father Patrick Toohey and Cathedral Assistant Father Jason Yeap.