Photos: S.Fantov
A Joyous Celebration of the Parish Patron
On Sunday, 8 June 2025, the Croatian Catholic Centre of the Holy Spirit in Springvale joyfully celebrated Pentecost, the feast of its parish patron, and one of the most significant days in the Christian calendar – often referred to as the birthday of the Church.
Pentecost marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles fifty days after Easter, empowering them to go out and spread the Gospel. It was the moment the Church began its public mission, and it continues to be a powerful reminder that every believer is called to receive and nurture the gifts of the Holy Spirit in their life.
Pilgrims from Across Victoria
The celebration at HKC Springvale began with the arrival of numerous pilgrims from other Croatian Catholic communities across Victoria, including Sunshine and Clifton Hill, as well as a group who travelled by bus from Geelong. The local parishioners warmly welcomed them, and a sense of unity and fellowship could be felt throughout the Centre.
Joyful faces, strong faith – Pentecost brings our community together in love and prayer
The solemn Holy Mass was led by Don Stipica Lešić, together with his brother in blood, in Christ, and in priesthood – Fr Vedran Lešić, the parish priest of Springvale. They were joined by Mons. Bosiljko Rajić from the Croatian Catholic Centre Clifton Hill and Fr Dino Mustafi from HKC Sunshine in concelebration.
Children from the Croatian Catholic School Bartol Kašić, members of the Zvonimir folklore ensemble, and the parish choir took an active role in the liturgy, enriching the celebration with their music, prayer, and joyful presence.
A moment of blessing – Fr. Nicholas Dillon joins the celebration and blesses the shared meal
Following the Mass, parishioners and guests gathered for a festive lunch in the beautifully decorated parish hall – a setting truly befitting the Church’s birthday. Before the meal, Fr Nicholas Dillon, who had just celebrated Mass at his own parish, St. Philip’s, joined the community and blessed the food.
The HFA Zvonimir folklore group presented a short cultural programme, performing a traditional song and a dance from Ražanac. This was followed by the singing of both the Croatian and Australian national anthems, after which everyone enjoyed a hearty home-cooked meal.
Songs and steps of joy
The band 4 Kuma kept the spirit alive with lively music, bringing all generations to the dance floor. The celebration continued into the afternoon with laughter, song, and the unmistakable warmth of Croatian hospitality and faith.
A Living Spirit Among Us
During the homily, the priests reminded all present of the continuing relevance and power of the Holy Spirit:
“The Holy Spirit wants to do something completely new in our lives. Let us allow Him to fill us. Let us pray that He renews His strength and gifts within us. Even when we feel we’re not able to speak or witness in His name, He will give us the words.”
“Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to enter our hearts, to teach us to love Jesus more deeply and to help us understand the Word of God. May He come into our lives with power and grace.”
Renewed in Spirit and Ready to Witness
As the day came to a close, the faithful returned home not only with cherished memories of the celebration, but with renewed spiritual strength and a deeper commitment to live their faith with joy, unity, and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
