Following Mass on Sunday morning December 18, parishioners of St Joseph’s Catholic Parish gathered in the School Library to farewell Fr Paul Nulley.

Father Paul has been assistant priest at the Young Mission which takes in St Joseph’s Grenfell, St Patrick’s Boorowa and St Mary’s Young for the past three years.

Father Paul has been appointed as a Chaplain to Australian Catholic University Canberra, in addition to the appointment as Parish Priest at O’Connor and Vocations Director, Universities and Youth Chaplain.

Chairperson of St Joseph’s Parish Council, Liz Carroll welcomed all to the gathering and called on Terry Carroll who spoke on behalf of all present.

He thanked Fr Paul for his outstanding commitment to his vocation and his very important Sunday sermons; he wished his well in with his new and busy schedule in Canberra.

Meg Grant spoke on behalf of the older parishioners and said how much she enjoyed having a young and devoted priest serve the community.

Parish Secretary, Judy McInnes was called upon to present a parting gift to Fr Paul, she wished him well with his new appointments and said he will be greatly missed by the parish and school community.

Father Paul responded, thanking everyone on how he had been warmly received into the parish community and for attending.

A most beautiful morning tea was enjoyed by all.

Fr Pale Leafu Leota, a priest of many years standing and originally from Samoa will be joining to serve in the Young Mission in February.

Fr Pale has been working in the diocese for years and recently as full time hospital chaplain in Canberra.

WELCOME TO THE WORLD:

Rachael Hewen and Scott Liebich are delighted on the birth of a son. Casey Arthur Liebich entered the world in Young Hospital on December 3 at 2.19pm weighing 8lbs and measuring 52.5cm

Casey is a new grandson for Mark and Bronwyn Liebich and Garry and Susan Hewen.

His excited siblings are Savannah, Wyatt and Jed. Congratulations to all.

CONDOLANCES:

Maria Hooker, wonderful partner of Robert Horne for twenty three years, mother of Richard and Robbie and “Oomie’ of Lisa, Christian, Cameron and Chris passed away on November 16.

Maria, was born in Italy and moved to Austria and then to Australia with her family some fifty years ago.

Maria was a sister in law to Robyn and Norm Horne and Percy and Jan Horne of Grenfell and former residents Lillian and Ray Anderson.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS:

Sheryl Hinde and Max Oliver both celebrated early birthdays at Fettlers Restaurant.

On Friday evening December 16 Sheryl celebrated with family and friends and on Saturday evening December 17 Max also celebrated with his family and friends.

I believe Sheryl’s birthday was on Sunday, whilst Max’s is on Christmas Eve.

Happy birthday to you both.

COMBINED SERVICES CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL:

The Grenfell Lions and Rotary Clubs Christmas Carnival will be held this evening (Friday December 23) from 6.30pm at Vaughn Park. The program for the evening is jam packed with family entertainment including a visit from Santa.

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HAPPY CHRISTMAS:

Best wishes to all for a very happy and holy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Enjoy this special time with your family and friends.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed or allowed me to use their stories in Weddin Whispers over the past twelve months.

Special thanks to Ngaire Soley and Belinda Leibick at the Record for their assistance over the year.

Weddin Whispers will return in mid January.

You may still send information and photos to me at carrollt@tpg.com.au over the holidays and I will use them once the column returns.