October 16, 2018
Kumbia Catholics are gearing up to celebrate the centenary of Our Lady Of Peace Church next year, with plans for a big weekend of celebrations and the launch of a commemorative book.
The parishioners are aiming to make the anniversary – on May 18-19 – a weekend to remember.
Former members of the Kumbia congregation are expected to return to the community as well as past parish priests, friends of the parish and other community members.
Archbishop Mark Coleridge will preside at Mass on the Sunday, following a community dinner on the Saturday night.
“It’s going to be a great weekend,” organiser Gayle Carroll said.
“We have a small group of dedicated volunteers who have been working on preparations since the middle of last year.
“As well as dinner with a bar operating on the Saturday night, we’ll share a luncheon after Mass on Sunday.
“Our local caterer, Judy Crawford of JC Catering, will look after us for both meals.”
The committee is currently seeking donations to assist with the costs associated with the running of the weekend, as well as publishing a commemorative book, and refreshing the church building.
Mrs Carroll said the committee was applying for grant funds, as well as approaching potential benefactors directly.
“We certainly appreciate any support that anyone can offer,” she said.
“A few of us have been running the barbecue at SupaIGA in Kingaroy each weekend during September, and the South Burnett Regional Council has just granted us $1500 towards the event which is greatly appreciated.”
Out Lady Of Peace church was built towards the end World War I and it became a meeting place centred on the theme of peace.
It has also hosted many weddings, baptisms and funerals over the years, and not infrequently saw parishioners praying for rain.
“In more years than not there would have been prayers for rain, I think,” Mrs Carroll said.
“Prayers for peace and prayers for rain.”
Tickets for meals and memorabilia at the Centenary weekend can be pre-purchased online at www.trybooking.com/YSWA
