Moving commemoration at St Matthew’s, starting with the New Zealand national anthem with members of many faiths and representatives of the Albury Wodonga Islamic association.

50 candles on the altar commemorated 50 killed in the recent tragedy. There were some in tears as more candles were lit at the beginning of the service while the choir sang the Lord’s my Shepherd and prayers for peace, protection and healing for New Zealand and the world were read.

Dr Helen Haines, Cathy McGowan’s political heir presumptive in the federal seat of Indi acknowledged the tragedy as she spoke on the St Matthew’s Lent lecture theme “Be the change you want to see in the world“ using the words of Mahatma Gandhi.

There was wide appreciation of Helen’s address, and Irish music at the conclusion with green scones for morning tea, a green ale at Paddy’s before lunch at Adamshurst, and then across the Murray and down to Wangaratta.  Good to see Dr John Davis and many other friends and supporters. Thanks to all who remembered and for the many expressions of support and goodwill toward our local mosque and the Islamic families represented on the border.

Fr Peter