A Brief History of St. Mary's Parish Seymour
PROLOGUE
The history of the Parish of Seymour, which includes the districts of Tallarook and Dabyminga, would not be complete without paying a debt of gratitude to the pioneering priests of Kilmore whose pastoral ministry extended from Wallan to the Murray River. Kilmore was established as a parish in 1849 with Reverend Father Charles Clarke appointed first parish priest. Father Clarke was one of the first priests to say Mass in the Seymour district and administer the sacraments to his scattered parishioners. Father Clarke was followed by Father Timothy O'Rourke in 1854; Father Michael Brannigan in 1860 and lastly Father Michael Farrelly in 1870 until Seymour was established as a canonical parish in 1890. A number of assisting priests from Kilmore also ministered in the Seymour district during the years 1848-1890 among them were Fathers Joseph O'Callaghan, Niccola Caesaretti, Edward McCarthy, Thomas Lenehan, Thomas Neville. Francis McCarthy, Maurice Stack and Robert Meade. A more detailed account of the pastoral ministrations of the pioneering priests can be found in the following pages of the Parish History. Acknowledgment is made to the present parish priest of Kilmore Father Peter J. Rankin who has been of considerable help in researching his parish archives for this history of the Seymour Parish. (Editor).
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1848 Bishop James Alipius Goold OSA arrived in Seymour on his way to Melbourne to take up his appointment as Bishop of Melbourne. He passed through the north-east on his remarkable overland journey in a carriage and four on his way from Sydney. From his diary we learn that he crossed the Murray near Albury early on 29 September, 1848 and just three days later he drove into Seymour, no mean feat at that time, as the country was as yet unopened and the distance covered must have been about 150 miles. He noted: “I was the first Bishop who visited that part of the Melbourne diocese which lies between the Murray and that city.”Father P.B. Geoghegan celebrated the first Mass in Seymour in a dwelling which was probably Tiernan’s on the site of the later Canadian Hotel, now opposite McDonalds. Seymour Catholics took up a collection of £16-0-0 for the education of priests.1849 Kilmore Parish was established and the newly appointed parish priest, Father Charles Clarke, traveled to Seymour to celebrate Mass on occasion.1853 The Seymour correspondent of the Melbourne Argus (13/3/1853) supplied this paragraph: “Father Clarke (of Kilmore) visited this township and celebrated Mass last Wednesday. He was accompanied by Rev. Fr. Smyth on route to the Ovens Diggings, in which locality he is appointed to officiate…”1855 A grant of land was given by the Government for the northern end of Emily Street, but was considered too far from the town and requests were made for another grant.1849–1890 The Seymour District was visited by Fathers T. O’Rourke, M. Branigan and M. Farrelly from St. Patrick’s Kilmore.1864 Early in 1864 Father Branigan built a small wooden church at Dabyminga on land granted in 1862.1865 St. Joseph’s Tallarook, a solid bluestone building was begun and the foundation stone laid. It was not finished until twenty years later. A school house was built at Tallarook.1866 St Joseph’s Tallarook (half built) was opened for Mass by Bishop Goold on 10 May, 1866.1869 A new grant of land was given at Seymour on its present site and the 1855 grant withdrawn. Mr. Patrick Hanna donated the Parish Bell. 1870 The foundation works for a little chapel at Seymour were dug out in May. 1870 Around 1870 a wooden chapel was built on a high hill overlooking the Chisholm property at Fernside in the Highlands and served the spiritual needs of the Catholic people in the area for over thirty years.A visiting priest would come from either Mansfield or Kilmore to say Mass on a number of Sundays during the year. Around the turn of the century, after St. Mary's Church in Seymour had been built and opened, the Fernside chapel was sold and was moved to Seymour to become Russell Stores on the corner of Tallarook and Station Streets where it remained until the 1970's when it was destroyed by fire.1871 The Foundation Stone for St. Mary’s Church Seymour, on the corner of High & Crawford St, was laid by the new Archbishop, the Most Rev. Dr. Goold. The Advocate of 16th December 1871 writes: on Saturday (the Bishop) left for Seymour, where, on the following morning (Sunday, the 3rd inst.), His Lordship laid the foundation stone of a new church. 1872 The first section of the Seymour church was finished mid-year. The Advocate of 4th May 1872 writes: It will be satisfactory to our readers to learn that the new church in High Street, Seymour, in connection with the erection of which considerable delay has occurred, is now being carried on rapidly towards completion. Under the vigilant eye of Mr. Poeppel the clerk of works and the personal supervision of Mr. Hanlon the contractor for the building, the walls have risen during the past fortnight to within a foot or so of the proper height, and it is confidently expected that before the end of May the church itself will be completed. 1873 The Advocate of 26th April 1873 writes: The Roman Catholic Church at Seymour was solemnly consecrated by his Lordship the Bishop on Sunday, the 20th instant. The Rev. W. Kelly S.J. preached on the occasion. There was a large procession of the members of the H.A.C.B.S., about sixty of whom escorted his Lordship to and from the church. 1873 Soon after his arrival at Kilmore Fr. Farrelly began work planned by Fr. Branigan for Seymour and in April a fine little brick church, St Mary’s, was blessed by Archbishop Goold. 1879 The following is an article from the Advocate 6th November 1879. A spirited meeting of Catholics of this district was held on Sunday last after Mass; the Rev. Father Maddock in the chair. At the Mass, and at the meeting, the reverend gentleman, with unusual warmth and energy, impressed upon the people their duties as Catholics, and he met with a response that was gratifying to him.1880-1891 St Mary’s Parish School commenced classes in the church until the new brick school was built. Teachers over these years included Miss Renehan, Miss Burns, Miss O’Donnell, Miss Graham and Miss McVeigh.1886 Bishop Thomas Joseph Carr became the second Bishop of the Melbourne Diocese. 1887 St Mary’s Church was completed with alterations carried out by Mr Buggy.1888 Archbishop Carr blessed the completed church. On the occasion, Father M. Farrelly offered the Mass and Father W. Cahill SJ preached the Occasional Sermon. The Church Choir sang Mozart’s XIIth Mass. This ceremony was one of Archbishop Carr’s first official acts after his arrival in Victoria. Until this time Mass was celebrated in Seymour every second Sunday. The Melbourne Advocate of 21st April writes of the occasion: On Sunday last the Archbishop of Melbourne visited Seymour for the purpose of blessing and opening the church dedicated to the Immaculate Conception which has recently been completed there. A procession was formed and proceeded around the church, which his Grace blessed with the usual ceremonies. A very fine life-size statue of the Immaculate Conception, from the establishment of Mr. T. Gaunt, of Melbourne, which had been presented to the church was blessed by the Archbishop before he left. 1890 Seymour was established as a Canonical Parish including Tallarook and Dabyminga. Father William Harnett was appointed first Parish Priest. 1891 The presbytery for the new parish was built.1895 Father Joseph Barry succeeded Father Harnett as Parish Priest. The Melbourne Advocate on January 26th reported that: at the conclusion of the annual retreat of the priests at St. Francis Xavier's College Kew, on Saturday morning, the Archbishop announced the following changes: Rev.J. Barry, Brunswick to Seymour; Rev. Wm. Harnett, Seymour to Gordon. The Seymour Telegraph reported on 9th. April: A large and representative meeting of the Catholics at Seymour and surrounding districts was held in the schoolroom on Wednesday to devise means of reducing the debt, now amounting to £800, which exists on the church and presbytery. Rev. Fr. Barry was voted to the chair, he pointed out that a bazaar would exhaust all local resources and that it would be better to leave the proposed art-union (earlier proposed) till after the bazaar when the ladies could give more attention to it. 1895 "A Parish Mission conducted by the Vincentian Fathers, December 21st 1985 at St. Joseph's Chapel Seymour." The inscription was written into a small book of prayers owned by Bill and Maureen Hickey, Maureen's family were from Nagambie. The St.Joseph's Chapel most probably refeers to St. Joseph's Church at Tallarook, part of the Seymour Parish. 1897 The Advocate edition of June 26th reports: The wants of religion and Catholic education are well supplied in the Seymour parish, of which the Rev. J. Barry is the rector . There are fine commodious churches in Seymour and at Tallarook and flourishing Catholic schools at each place, with an attendance of 85 at the former and 43 at the latter. The splendid presbytery, on which only a comparatively small liability remains, was erected by the predecessor of Fr. Barry, the Rev. W. Harnett.1897 Father Barry died on 25 June. As a memorial to his pastoral care the parishioners erected a stained glass window in the sanctuary of the church. It is now situated in Our Lady’s Chapel of our present church. Father Joseph Walsh was appointed Parish Priest on 2 July until 1899. The Advocate of July 10th records that the Archbishop has made the following change: Rev. J. Walsh from St. Patrick's Cathedral to Seymour (pastor). On the following Sunday after the 11 o'clock Mass a large and representative meeting was held in the schoolroom, at which the newly appointed pastor (Rev. W. Walsh) presided, to take steps to erect a suitable memorial to the late lamented pastor (Rev. J. Barry). Much enthusiasm was shown by all present, and it was unanimously resolved thsat ther memorial should take the form of a stained glass window for the sanctuary for which Fr. Barry had for some time past set his heart. £34. was taken up at the meeting. (See the stained glass memorial window to Father Barry on the home page button Stained Glass.) The Seymour Telegraph of 17th inst. of August reports: At St.Mary's R.C. Church on Sunday, perhaps the largest congregation ever seen in Seymour, embracing many prominent members of other denominations, and including nearly 60 members of the Hibernian Society in regalia, assembled to witness the unveiling of the memorial window erected to the memory of the late Rev. Joseph Barry. It speaks well for the cordiality of feeling existing between the various religious bodies in Seymour, and testifies vividly to the respect and esteem entertained by one and all for the memory of the departed priest. Into a handsome Gothic stonework for the memorial window a beautiful design has been introduced, which, together with its rich tapestry, adapts itself to the position in a very pleasing manner. The very Rev. Fr. O'Farrell, CSsR, assisted by Father Walsh, solemnly blessed the window and delivered an impressive discourse on the Blessed Virgin. The architects, Messrs Kempson and Connelly, are to be congratulated upon the successful completion of the beautiful window which had been carried out under their supervision. 1899 Father J. O’Neill was appointed Pastor. He was previously at Yea. Father Walsh having completed ten years in the Archdiocese returned to Cashel. Father O'Neill soon requested that the Sisters of Mercy at Mansfield come to St Mary’s Parish to take over direction of the parish school. Father O'Neill was appointed to another parish in 1900. The Advocate writing on March 11th states that: Rev. J. Walsh, who for some years was attached to the Cathedral, and on the death of Fr. Barry was appointed rector of Seymour, was the recipient of a banquet and several presentation in St. Mary's schoolroom, on Monday evening last, before his departure for Ireland. 1899 The Melbourne Advocate on 4th November writes: The Catholics of Seymour and Tallarook have been much hampered with a large amount of debt contracted during the boom period over the erection of a substantial presbytery at Seymour. On Father O'Neill being transferred from Yea to the charge of Seymour mission, some months ago, he enlisted the services of an energetic committee of ladies to hold a bazaar to liquidate the above debt. Mr. M.K. McKenzie, MLA in the absence of the Archbishop in Queensland opened the bazaar on October 4 and continued for five nights, with a result of £448. 4s. 4d. This amount more than meets all existing debt on the mission.1900 Following the request of Father O’Neill, five Sisters of Mercy arrived from Mansfield and soon established St Mary’s Convent School and later Sacred Heart College. The founding sisters were: Mother Agnes Ryan, Sr Mary of the Divine Heart Ryan, Sr Berchmans Dodd, Sr Aquino Denton, Sr Catherine Ford. 1900 The Seymour Telegraph reported in July that Fr. J. O'Neill, parish priest, has been transferred from Seymour, and by this the reverend father has received well deserved promotion in being appointed parish priest at Castlemaine. Father O'Neill has been stationed at Seymour just on eighteen months, he having succeeded Father Walshe, and during that short time he has made himself very popular with his large congregation who sincerely regret his departure. When Father O'Neill came to Seymour there was a debt of £470 on the presbytery, but this has been cleared off mainly by united efforts of the Rev. Father and his congregation. There has also recently been established a convent, which our readers will remember was opened by Archbishop Carr a few weeks ago. Father O'Neill was also successful last week before his departure in completing the purchase, at a satisfactory price, of the show grounds, which adjoins the presbytery. The land has been secured for the nuns, and it is the intention to erect a convent. We congratulate Father O'Neill on his promotion and wish him every success in his new sphere. Rev. Father Considine, of Meridith, will fill the position of parish priest of Seymour, and has entered upon his duties.1900 Father Thomas Considine Parish Priest until 1915. Later in the year the Melbourne Advocate on 15th December reported that: Last Sunday His Grace the Archbishop of Melbourne administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to a large number of children of both sexes at Seymour and Tallarook. The Archbishop was assisted by the Parish Priest, Rev. Thomas Considine. 1901 Father Considine advertises in the Melbourne Advocate for: "a well qualified Lady teacher" for the Catholic School at Tallarook: rolls,40; salary six pounds per month; testimonial. The Advocate on 19th October reported that Mr.M.K. McKenzie, MLA opened a bazaar at Seymour on the 10th inst.,in aid for the Convent school. Speaking on the vital role of Christian education, the member for Anglesey said that he thought the Catholic body set a good example to other Christian denominations in the State in regard to education. They showed that they prized education highly, and were prepared to make great sacrifices in order that their children might receive it. 1903 A site for a new convent was purchased in High Street close to the church. In June Archbishop Carr laid the foundation stone for the two story brick building, ornamented in the fashion of the day with wooden mouldings. The convent was ready for occupancy in October of that year. 1904 The Advocate on 8th December reported: Last Sunday, at St Mary's of the Immaculate Conception, Seymour, His Grace the Archbishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 117 candidates, including 25 adults. During the examination of the children, his Grace, referred incidentally to fortune telling. He declared that it was a wrong and dangerous thing and advised the children against it. He told them that he knew of people who were nearly driven out of their minds because fortune tellers had predicted unfavorable things for them. In Melbourne he had heard of a man who had backed two horses in the Melbourne Cup and because a fortune teller had told him two others were going to win. the man placed all he had on them, and one of the first two won. His Grace illustrated the probabilities of some of the things prognosticated by fortune tellers being fulfilled and said people were led away by these. On Monday morning at 8 o'clock a profession and reception ceremony of five nuns was also conducted by his Grace assisted by Father Considine and Father P. Rafferty also being present. Three young ladies professed Miss Hession (Sister Mary Gertrude), Miss Hehir (Sister Mary Theresa) and Miss Dolan (Sister Mary Stanislaus). At the close of the ceremony dejeuner was served at the convent, at which a large number sat down. 1908 The Melbourne Advocate reports on 11th January : His Grace the Archbishop of Melbourne arrived at Seymour by the Sydney express last Saturday and was welcomed by the rector, Rev. T. Considine. His Grace administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to a large number of candidates of both sexes in the church of the Immaculate Conception last Sunday. The Most Rev prelate has given his approval to the renovation and improvement of the primary school at Seymour. These schools are in a flourishing condition. There is an average daily attendance of 134. The schools are in charge of the Sisters of Mercy.1908 Sacred Heart College was registered under the new legislation to take pupils from infants to Senior Public Standard. 1908 Reported in the Seymour Express of 2nd October. At the local Catholic School a new infant class room has been errected, which makes a pleasing addition to the already fine pile of buildings there. The contractor for the work was Mr W. Neal, whilst the architect was Mr W.J. Muntz, CE. Having a measurement of 30ft x 25ft there will be ample room for the children and in addition there will be ample ventilation, the room having been constructed in strict compliance with the requirements of the Central Board of Health. A cloak room and shelter shed have also been constructed. 1909 Father M.D. Finan appointed to Seymour while Father Thomas Considine is on sick leave. 1911 The Advocate reports on 14 October that the Very Rev Dean Phelan VG opened a bazaar in aid of the school conducted by the Sisters of Mercy at Seymour. 1912 On Sunday 22 July his Grace the Archbishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation at Seymour to 101 children of either sex. he expressed much pleasure with the examination of the children who showed such a good knowledge of their faith and Christian Doctrine. His Grace admitted the children into the League of the Cross. 1915 Father T.W. O'Collins, newly arrived from overseas is appointed to Seymour. He remained one year in the parish and was posted to the Puckapunyal Army Camp as a chaplain. 1916 The Advocate reported on 23rd September that gala days were had at Seymour on Saturday and Sunday last, 16th and 17th inst., when his Grace the Archbishop the Most Rev. Dr. Carr opened a bazaar, the object of which is the liquidation of the parochial debt A very large attendance filled the Federal Hall with many soldiers from the Camp being in the throng. In fact, the presence of the military element in the district will probably mean a record success to the undertaking. A vote of thanks was proposed to His Grace by Cr. Tehan and seconded by Cr. Morrison.. 1917 The Seymour Express on 28th September writes: Owing to the many urgent cases of hardship and distress that have come to the knowledge of the Sisters of Mercy it is proposed to establish a branch of the St. Vincent de Paul Society at Seymour A preliminary meeting has been held and it is hoped that all charitably disposed persons will give their support and sympathy to the proposal.. 1915-1925 Father Michael J. Dolan, appointed Parish Priest. 1919 Parish Mission at Seymour. The Melbourne Advocate reports on 6th December: the mission which was conducted at the Catholic Church, during the past fortnight was brought to a successful conclusion on Sunday last by a Communion breakfast which was largely attended. The function took place in the convent class-room and was presided over by Mr. Jno. Leonard. Several fine addresses were delivered, particularly by Father Moynihan in conjunction with Father Dolan. The toast to the Nuns and Ladies was proposed by Cr. Tehan and acknowledged by Mr. B. Flanagan. 1919 The Seymour Telegraph reported on 26th November: A very large number attended the R.C. Communion Breakfast held after morning Mass on Sunday last. The function took place at the Convent class room and was presided over by Mr. Jno. Leonard. Several fine addresses were delivered particularly by Rev. Father Moynahan who, in conjunction with Rev. Father Dolan, responded to the toast of "The Hierarchy and Clergy," proposed by Mr. W. Regan. The toast of "The Nuns and Ladies," was proposed by Cr. Tehan, and acknowledged by Mr. B. Flanagan. 1920 The Advocate reports on 18th November on Father Dolan's celebration of his twenty-fifth anniversary of Ordination with a reception in the convent classroom attended by many parishioners and townspeople. 1922 On 9th March, His Grace, the Archbishop administers the Sacrament of Confirmation to 80 candidates. His Lordship, the Bishop of Sandhurst the Right Reverend Dr. McCarthy visited Tallarook and administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 26 candidates after the 9 o'clock Mass. There was a large congregation and the ceremony concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. 1923 The Seymour Telegraph on 3rd of August reported the death of Sister Mary Cecilia Quirk. Deep regret was felt by the residents of Seymour when it became known that Sister Mary Cecilia had passed away on Friday evening July 20th. The deceased had been a sufferer for some years and was attended by Dr. Morton of Seymour with care and attention. Though her death was not altogether unexpected, it came as a great shock to all. The last rites of the Church were administered by Rev. Father Dolan, P.P. After Mass on Sunday the remains were carried in procession headed by Father Dolan and three acolytes, then followed the Sisters of Mercy, the Hibernians, and the children taught by the Sisters. The coffin-bearers were Messrs Flanagan, Sheehan, Larkins, Hickey, Eril and J.O'Sullivan. On Sunday afternoon the remains were conveyed by motor to Kilmore and on Monday morning the Office and Solemn High Mass were celebrated for the repose of her soul, the Celebrant being Rev.M. Dolan with Rev. P.J. Gleeson, P.P. Kilmore as deacon, and Rev. P. Kavanagh, of Nagambie, sub-deacon. The chanters were Rev. J. Hyland and Rev.J. Bolger. The Very Rev. Dean Martin, P.P.,V.F. and Rev. P. Loughnan of Kyneton were also present and took part in the ceremonies. The Master of Ceremonies was Rev. F. Ryder of Kilmore. The Rev. M. Dolan gave a short discourse on the life of the deceased Sister, dwelling on her perfect resignation to the Divine Will during her long years of suffering. Amongst her relatives present were Mrs Quirk, mother and Mr P. Quirk, brother and Sr. M. Bernard (Mansfield) sister of the deceased. The coffin was carried by four Marist brothers to the hearse, where a procession formed in the following order and accompanied it to the Kilmore Catholic Cemetery: Pupils of the Marist Brothers and Sisters of Mercy and Clergy. Rev. J. Hyland officiated at the grave. . 1923 The Advocate on 9th August reports that a large block of land fronting High Street and adjoining the presbytery has been acquired by Rev. M.J. Dolan PP at a price running into about four figures. It will be a good standby when it is found necessary to enlarge the church. 1925-1939 Father P.D. O’Connor, appointed Parish Priest in April of 1925. 1927 The presbytery underwent refurbishment and was renovated at a cost of £1,200. 1929 A Redemptorist Mission was held in the parish over the period 20th October thru 3rd November. 1931 The Melbourne Advocate on 2nd July 1931 reported on the great celebrations at Seymour on the occasion of the sacerdotal silver jubilee of Fr.P.O'Connor PP who was ordained on 24 June 1906 at the great college at Drumcondra. The article goes on to elaborate on the pastorate of Father O'Connor at Seymour. Over the past six years many improvements have been carried out on the church buildings and parish equipment generally. In the church of the Immaculate Conception a beautiful new altar has been erected, a new floor has been put in and new coverings provided, new lead light windows have been placed in position and the whole interior of the church has been repainted and renovated. The seating has also been cleaned and repainted and the roofing attended to. The presbytery was not long ago rebuilt, as was the primary school, at a big expense, and the surroundings in the yards, fencing and gates etc., have been renewed. At Tallarook, a new floor has been put down, eight new stained glass windows, new seating, two new side altars and new altar rails have been provided, together with other improvements. On parish buildings and on property generally, and on Catholic primary education in both parts of the parish, a sum of £6500 has been expended in six years, and as more than £1000 a year, in addition is contributed to the upkeep of the Convent High School, it can be said that for the last six years there has been spent on buildings and property generally a sum of more than £12,500, not one penny of which has been given by the State. 1932 The Sacrament of Confirmation was conferred on 113 candidates by his Grace the Archbishop of Hobart, Most Rev. William Hayden, DD on the week of December 22nd. Archbishop Hayden was introduced to a good number of the Seymour parishioners both before and after the Confirmation ceremony. Many of the people were acquainted with people and districts in Archbishop Hayden's former diocese of Wilcania-Forbes. 1934 The Advocate on September 13, reported that a two weeks' mission in preparation for the Eucharistic Congress will commence in the Seymour parish on Sunday, September 16, and will continue up to Sunday September 30, inclusive. The exercises will be conducted by Redemptorist Father T.F. Morrissey CSsR. There will be a Eucharistic Procession in the church grounds at Seymour at 3 pm. when the people of Seymour and the surrounding parishes will be in attendance. Father Morrissey CSsR, will also preach a weeks' mission at Tallarook on Monday, 24th inst. at 7 pm, and will continue during the week. It will close on Sunday, 30th.inst., with evening devotions. In the Sunday Advocate of October 4th the paper reported again that the parish of Seymour, which includes the Tallarook and Kobyboyn districts has held two well attended Eucharistic gatherings in preparation for the National Eucharistic Congress in Melbourne in December next. Both were well attended from all parts of the parish and many visitors were also present from neighbouring districts. 1935 On May 30th, organised by the members of the energetic Catholic Ladies Club and others of the Seymour parish to raise funds to liquidate a debt on the school buildings, a successful bazaar was held in the Seymour Town Hall. Concerts, social evenings and other entertainments were arranged prior to the bazaar, and these combined with individual donations gave the committee an excellent start with stock for the stalls which were laden with all manner of good and useful articles, which found ready and delighted purchassers. The whole of the arrangements were admirably carried out and the profits from all sources, concert, Tallarook sports, etc., were in the vicinity of £300. Cr. Tehan said it was a pleasure to see present so many representatives from different parts of the town and district, and on behalf of the committee he welcomed them. Cr. Tehan said that the purpose of the appeal was to defray expenses incurred in the renovating and improving the schools to comply with the Board of Health regulations. He was pleased to say they had received magnificent support from members of other denominations. Cr. Chittick moved a vote of thanks and was supported by his colleague, Cr. O'Shea. At the close of the bazaar, Mr. W.P. Boland, at a mock auction disposed of the "remnants" at satisfactory prices. Mr Jack Larkins was an efficient and energetic secretary. 1937 The third annual Catholic Ball was held in the Seymour Town Hall on September 10. Over 300 dancers were present, including visitors from Kyabram, Wangaratta, Euroa, Yea, Benalla, Kilmore and Mansfield. The Supper provided by the ladies of the parish was a feature of the fixture. There were four sittings of eighty in each. Mrs Creedon and Mrs A. McDonald supervised the arrangements and Miss Costa the decorations. Mr T. Tehan jun., was the hon. secretary and was congratulated upon the great success of the Ball. 1937 During the early years of the 1930's there was a growing feeling that the parish needed a new church as the Catholic population had outgrown the church completed in 1887. A group of enthusiastic parishioners approached the parish priest, Father O'Connor, who at the time was not as enthusiastic as his parishioners, however a committee was formed and an appointment was made to visit His Grace, the Co-adjutor Archbishop, Dr. Justin Daniel Simonds, His Grace Archbishop Mannix, in deference to Father O'Connor, preferring not to attend the discussions on the question of a new church until he was fully appraised of the situation. Mr Tom Tehan jnr, was one of the moving forces behind the new church project. Looking back over the events seventy year later, Tom related to Monsignor Toms the meeting which took place with His Grace Archbishop Simonds and the Vicar General Reverend Dr. Patrick Lyons. The meeting concluded with approval in general given to the project with further discussions to take place on the matter of costs, architectural design and the approval of Father O'Connor. There is a subsequent apocryphal story, readily recounted by long time parishioners, that Archbishop Mannix suggested that the new church should be high enough so that on his return train visits from Sydney he would know he had arrived back into his archdiocese. Whether or not this contains any element of truth is unimportant however it does make a good story. 1938-1939 Archbishop Mannix approved the plans for the new parish church and construction commenced. 1938 Following the opening of the new church, the original 1880 church became St. Mary’s Hall. During WWII it became a popular venue for dances and social events, particularly with the soldiers from the Puckapunyal Camp. Sufficient funds were raised to pay off the building of the new church by the end of the war. The Melbourne Advocate on October 13th prints: The Seymour week's mission began on September 11th when the church was filled. The morning attendances of men at 6 o'clock Mass and instruction were more than edifying. In the middle of the Mission week, that is, on the feast of the Holy Cross, Confirmation was administered to about 120 candidates, among them one adult. The Confirmation sermon was preached by Fr. Purcell, after which Confirmation was administered by his Grace the Archbishop. Right Rev. Mgr. R.Collins and Rev. Dr. Beovich, assisted by Fr. Purcell attended the Archbishop during the ceremonies. The Sisters of Mercy worked hard for weeks before Confirmation preparing the children of the parish schools and also many who came from the bush for instructions. Rev. Dr. Beovich examined the children a week before Confirmation and expressed himself pleased with their good knowledge of Christian doctrine and was glad to know that those who had made use of the National Catholic Correspondence Course showed themselves well versed with Christian doctrine. At Tallarook, on the same week, Father T. Purcell, OMI, began a week's mission at the Tallarook church on Sunday, September 4. It was the first mission given by the Oblate Fathers in the Parish and the parishioners were delighted with the Father's instructions during the week, as also his instructions to children. The strong faith of the early pioneers is still much in evidence in the district, so the mission Fathers had good material to work on, for all known to be Catholics in the place availed themselves of the graces of the mission. 1939-1946 Father Francis McGuire, appointed Parish Priest. 1939 Father John Ryan appointed the first assistant priest. He was curate at Seymour for six months. 1939 Wide newspaper coverage was given to the Foundation-Stone Ceremony as reported by the Melbourne Advocate, and the Seymour Telegraph on 16th March. The erection of a large and well designed new church in brick is to replace the old church of the Immaculate Conception which has served the needs of the district for a number of years and on Sunday last the foundation-stone was solemnly blessed by his Grace the Archbishop. Most Reverend Dr. Mannix. The school children and men of the parish formed a guard of honour. With his Grace on the platform at the after meeting were Very Rev. Dr. Lyons, Rev. P.D.O'Connor PP, Rev.W. O'Farrell, PP, Rev. W.P. Hackett S.J., Rev. W.V. McEvoy, OP, Rev. J. Ryan, Rev. J. O'Rourke, Cr Chittick and Cr. Tehan President of the Shire. Congratulatory addresses were delivered by Rev. Fr. O'Rourke, Rev.Fr. Hackett S.J., Mr. Mackrell, MLA, Cr. Tehan and Cr. Chittick. His Grace said he hoped to revisit Seymour when the new church was completed and he would reserve a fuller address till then. Tom Tehan jnr, remembers the occasion well. "It was a wet blustery day and the plans for the blessing of the foundation stone had to be changed. It was raining and I held an umbrella over His Grace the Archbishop as he blessed the stone. His Grace made comment on the inclement weather and said that he would speak in greater detail when he returned to bless the church", as related to Monsignor Toms. 1939 In June, at the monthly meeting of the Catholic Women's Social Guild, it was decided to place in the new church a memorial to the late Miss Mary Larkins, who was an active member of the guild. Miss Mahoney, secretary, will receive donations. The result of a card game at the convent completed the sum necessary to pay for the furniture purchased for the presbytery on the arrival of a second priest. 1939 Great coverage was given in both the Seymour Telegraph on September 22 and the Melbourne Advocate 21 September for the opening ceremonies of the new Immaculate Conception church in Seymour. The Seymour Telegraph writes: There was an exceptionally large gathering at the opening of the beautiful church of the Immaculate Conception in Crawford Street on Sunday afternoon last. Practically every Catholic home in the parish was represented, and amongst the throng were many members of other denomination Visitors were also present from the metropolis and all the surrounging towns within many miles of Seymour. The Blessing was performed by his Grace the Archbishop, Most Rev. Dr. Mannix, who was accompanied from Melbourne by the very Rev. Dr. P.F. Lyons, Adm. The Advocate reported that members of the Hibernian Society in regalia acted as a guard of honour, and more than 2000 people were present. Local civic dignitaries present were: Hon. E. Mackrell, MLA, Crs. W.D. Chisholm, W.G. O'Shea, J. Chittick. M. Leahy, J. Seymour, H.E. Bailey (Seymour Shire) and W. Seymour (Pyalong Shire). Ex-Cr. Tehan and Messrs J. P. Minogue, P, Carey, M. Geoghegn. J. Craven and B. Moriarty. Father McGuire said that the large assemblage from near and far showed the interest that was taken at the opening of the beautiful church, of which they were all justly proud. His Grace the Archbishop was delighted with the church, which compared favourably with the parish churches in the city and suburbs. His Grace said that he was confident that the new parish priest in Seymour Father McGuire would be as successful as he had been in other places. The church building cost £8880, and an additional sum of £1575 /11s /2d was spent on furnishings, fencing, pavements and other works. In addition to the church expenditure an amount of £986/0s/3d was incurred in repairing and refurbishing the presbytery and the laying out of the grounds, and the total outlay was £11,362/0s/5d. Against this there was a credit of £760/19s/10d, leaving an indebtedness of £10,601/0s/7d . This was a substantial debt, however Fr. McGuire was confident that the people would support him in reducing it from time to time. 1940 As reported in the Melbourne Advocate June 27th the St. Mary's Jubilee Ball held in the Seymour Town Hall on June 14 was an outstanding success. About 500 people were present, including visitors from Melbourne as well as surrounding districts, also officers and men from the military camp at Puckapunyal. A feature of the evening was the presentation of debutantes, sixteen in number. After a fanfare, the herald presented Mrs. W.G. O'Shea, wife of the Shire president, with a parchment scroll, on which was printed in Old English letters the names of the debutantes. The debutantes on being presented by Mrs. Ellis, made their curtsey to Mrs. O'Shea and then danced the Pride of Erin. Mr. H. Ellis acted as MC, Messrs A.J. Dawson and T. Tehan as joint hon. secretaries and members of the local C.W.S.G. served a very dainty supper. The debutantes were: Misses Teresa Austin (later to enter the Mercy Siters), Marie O'Connor, Marie Graham, Pat O'Connor, Mary McBean, Catherine Caine, Joyce Robinson, Margaret Shields, Molly Lynch, Ann Tobin, Isobel Fisher, Yvonne Rolfs, Norma Fraser, Beryl Lawton, Hilda Robinson and Winnie Sidebottom. 1946-1955 Father James Murphy appointed Parish Priest. 1946 On Monday 15th SeptemberArchbishop Mannix travelled to Seymour to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation and on the following day, 16th September, his Grace consecrated the Immaculate Conception church. 1947 The Melbourne Advocate of October 22 wrote an article on the Native Seminary at Torokina in the North Solomons. It was recently opened by Right Rev. Mgr. James Hannan, PhD, DD, the first National Director for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Another Melbourne priest Father Frank McGuire has gone to Torokina to assist Monsignor Hannan in preparing the local clergy for ordination to the priesthood. Father McGuire was formerly Parish Priest of Seymour from 1939-1946. 1946-1949 Father Tom Curran appointed assistant Priest. Father Curran was a distinguished chaplain in the Australian Army during WWII and continued to serve as a part time chaplain at Puckapunyal. 1949-1955 Father Kevin O'Donnell appointed assistant priest. 1950's For a number of years, the Marian Club existed in the parish. It was formed primarily for young mothers with children and it provided these mothers with social outings once a month. Meetings were held in members homes. One fundraising effort undertaken by this group took the form of jumble and cake stalls. The funds were used to provide a scholarship to Sacred Heart College. 1954 The Seymour Telegraph reported on 9th April the Obituary of Sister Mary Catherine Ford. After a short illness the death of Sister M. Catherine Ford occured at the Convent of Mercy, Seymour on 23rd March. Sister M. Catherine was a member of the Seymour Community for the past 54 years, during which time she endeared herself to all who came in contact with her by her gentleness and amiability. Children found in her a dear confidante and a keen sympathiser in their troubles. Her long religious life was a source of edification to her Sisters who will always remember her spirit of prayer and generosity. Solemn Requiem Mass was celebrated for the repose of her soul at the church of the Immaculate Conception. The Celebrant was Father K. O'Donnell, assisted by Father G.Shanahan, deacon, and Father F. McKenzie, sub-deacon. Father James Murphy P.P. was the Master of ceremonies. The music of the Liturgy was renderd by Father P.O'Gorman and Father P. Kane. In the Sanctuary were Dean Murphy (Shepparton), Father P. Sowersby P.P.(Yea), Father Turner SJ, Father L.O'Rourke, Father B. Wallis. Present at the Mass were also Sisters from Mansfield, Kilmore, Shepparton, Euroa and Mornington. The funeral took place immediately after Mass. The pupils of Sacred Heart College and St. Mary's School formed a Guard of Honour from the church door to the grave-side. The deceased was born in New Zealand and is survived by a brother, two sisters and many relatives to whom we extend our deepest sympathy. Funeral arrangements were in the capable hands of Mr. Graham Diggle. The coffin-bearers were: Messrs H. Jones, W. Maher, T.O'Keefe and F. Childs. The pall-bearers were: Messrs T.Eril, Simmonds, J. Francis, M.Lynch, W, Davern, and N. Nugent. During the funeral the church bell was tolled by Mr Eon Densworth. 1955 The Seymour Telegraph reported on 25th November the Death of Father James Murphy P.P. the first Corpus Christi Parish Priest of Melbourne. Solemn Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Fr. James Murphy P.P. who died on 8 November, was celebrated at St. Mary's Church, Seymour, on Thursday, 10 November. His Grace Archbishop Simonds presided and more than a hundred priests were present. The church was crowded with parishioners, children from the parish school and students from the districts attending Assumption College, Kilmore. Present in the sanctuary were the Right Rev. Monsignor A.F. Fox, V.G., Adm. (Melbourne), Right Rev. Monsignor F.X. Thomas Adm. (St. Kilian's Bendigo), Right rev. Monsignor J. Lawless, P.P. (Rutherglen), Very Rev. Dean T. Murphy,P.P. V.F. (Shepparton), Rev. D. Daly,P.P. (Hampton), Rev. J. Awburn, P.P. (Wodonga), Rev. J. Duggan, P.P. (Tatura). Celebrant of the Mass was Rev. P. O'Gorman; deacon, Rev. B.O'Connor,P.P., sub-deacon Rev. K. Morrison,P.P. Master of Ceremonies was Rev. K. O'Donnell assisted by Rev. L. Clarke. The Requiem was chanted by the choir of priests, led by Rev. L. Henry, Rev. G. Sait, Rev. B. Murphy and Rev. J. Phelan. The Absolution was given by His Grace Archbishop Simonds, assisted by Rev. J. Awburn and Rev. D. Daly. The late Father Murphy was the first priest from Corpus Christi College to be appointed a parish priest in the Archdiocese of Melbourne (Healsville, 1941). Preaching the Panegyric, Father D. Daly, P.P. said it was a sad day for the relatives of Fr. Murphy, for the parishioners of Seymour and for the whole Archdiocese of Melbourne. A worthy priest had been called to God. He was born in Yackandandah on August 5, 1894 and lived most of his early life in the Mitta Mitta valley. He did not have the advantage of city Catholic schools. After primary education, he attended the Wangaratta High School and the Teachers' Training College, Melbourne, and in 1915 sat for a Public Service examination. It was his good fortune, continued Father Daly, to be associated with him in the newly established Department, not only as a fellow worker, but as a friend. They lived together in the same boarding house from 1916 onwards. In the Department, James Murphy was given positions of trust. All were struck by his great courtesy and people came to him for guidance. In 1919, their paths separated, he (Father Daly) went to St. Patrick's College Manly. But twelve months later Father Murphy decided that he also was called by God to the priesthood. He went to night school studied the elements of Latin and matriculated. Every student at Corpus Christi College admired and honoured the earnestness and courage of Father Murphy during eight arduous years. It was his privilege to assist at his first mass in 1931 and he well remembered the great joy of his parents. After serving in various parishes of Melbourne, he was appointed parish priest of Seymour nine years ago. They had all lost a faithful priest, friend and counsellor. Father Murphy came from one of those families that have made Catholic Australia what it is, said Father Daly. He knew his, father, mother and sisters, one of them, Sister M. Julian, a nun at Kirribilli, Sydney. One could realise the source of his great qualities of simplicity, humility and love of the Faith. He had known Father Murphy for nearly forty years; he had never done a mean thing in his life. he was a model man and a model priest, kind and considerate of others, and a faithful friend. May God have mercy on his soul and welcome him into the land of eternal peace. The burial took place at the Melbourne General Cemetery at 3.30pm. Present at the interment were his Grace Archbishop Mannix. His Grace the Coadjutor Archbishop Dr. Simonds and his Lordship Bishop O'Collins (Ballarat). The prayers were read by Rev. J. Phelan. 1955-1957 Father Denis White appointed assistant priest. 1957-1960 Father N. Coleman appointed assistant priest. 1957 In April of 1957 the first edition of the Immaculate Conception Gazette Seymour Vol.1 No1 was printed for the parish. The Gazette was a four page publication listing Mass and Confession times, the Easter Ceremonies and details of Societies, Sodalities and Clubs, Considerable space is given to the restored Easter Ceremonies. Reverend Father Ted Nowlan, a WWII chaplain was Parish Priest. 1956-1959 Father Edmund Nowlan appointed Parish Priest. 1959-1962 Father George Maltby appointed Parish Priest. It was during Father Maltby's years as parish priest that needed maintenance work was carried out on the presbytery. Present day parishioner Bernie Dillon recalls those years up to and including the years of Father Leo Pascoe. " In 1960’s I was employed by the local priest to prepare and paint out several rooms in the two story presbytery. The priest at that time was Father Maltby. The rooms had very high ceilings and had to be washed down to remove calcimine only to find underneath the calcimine was wallpaper. The wallpaper then had to be removed to prepare for painting which made this job more tedious and took longer to complete. I am now very grateful for the opportunity but did not think so at the time and for Father Maltby’s friendship and support. In those days I was a bit wild and reckless. The live-in housekeeper was also a great support. The job took probably six months on and off. In 1961 Father Maltby organized a dinner held in a marquee on the grounds of St Mary’s. The dinner was to help raise monies for the Parish by starting a ‘giving campaign’ and pledge. I helped in the erection of the marquee. The weather was hot and the work was hard. Any ideas of running away and joining a circus were abandoned from that day onward. A very successful campaign was achieved. Other fun time as teenagers was to play tennis at St Mary’s tennis courts which were situated where the now presbytery is. Also many years later while working for Asset Services, Puckapunyal as a painter & glazier we were awarded a contract to renovate the presbytery and believe it or not..... several rooms had to be stripped of wallpaper. 1961 The Seymour Telegraph reports in the 22 September edition on the new school rooms at St Mary's School: The new school block at St Mary's is now nearing completion. It consists of two spacious class-rooms, a science room which can also be used for sewing and typing, two music rooms and a complete toilet block. The cost of this building, which is in a brick veneer is £12,000. No government aid is given to denominational schools, though their value is being increasingly recognised, and so the erection of these buildings has only become possible by the system of direct and sacrificial giving adopted by the parish last November. In its first year this has raised over £14,000. Besides meeting running costs, this has helped to liquidate the debt of £15,000 owing on school buildings erected in 1957. To mark the first year of this splendid effort, the Parish Priest (Father Maltby) is tendering a function to all parishioners and friends in the Seymour Town Hall on Tuesday, October 11th. A party of TV, Radio and Stage Stars from Melbourne (Jack Perry, Fred Phillips, June Hamilton, Will Alma and John Rodger), will assure first class entertainment, which Seymour may not see again for many a long day" . 1963 Approval given by Archbishop Mannix to build a new presbytery. The old presbytery was demolished and became the parish car park. 1963-1965 Father Bill McAuley appointed assistant priest. 1965-1970 Father J. Vincent Creed, appointed Parish Priest. 1965-1967 Father Eric Hodgens appointed assistant priest. Father Hodgens was also Chaplain to the National Service Training Battalion at Puckapunyal. Father Hodgens remained in the Inactive Army Reserve into the 1980's. 1965 The Advocate on February 18th reported on the tribute paid by Bishop Fox at the Solemn Requiem Mass on the late of Father Patrick Garvey. His Lordship said Father Garvey was a very devoted pastor to his people who was liked by all and especially by children. Father Garvey, who had been transferred from the Seymour parish, to North Richmond only eleven days earlier, died suddenly on Tuesday February 9th. 1966 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Monsignor McGuire on October 9th. 177 candidates confirmed. 1967 . The new presbytery at Seymour was blessed by Bishop Arthur Fox on Sunday 12th March. It is a single story brick veneer building and has accomodation for two priests and a housekeeper. The presbytery which this one replaces was built in 1890. His Lordhip said that Father Creed had done much in the short time he had been Parish Priest at Seymour. In addition to the presbytery he had provided tennis courts for the young of the parish. His Lordship said: I think you will all agree with me that this new presbytery will enhance not only the parish but also the town of Seymour itself. I see here today some of the Mercy Sisters who teach at the school. I want to thank them for the work that they are doing in the interests of the children of the parish, and linked with them I thank the lay teachers who co-operate with the Sisters in this work of education. His Lordship thanked the Ministers of the other denominations who came to the blessing and he concluded with congratulations to Father Creed and to his assistant priest Father Hodgens on the progress made in the parish since their appointment to Seymour. 1967-1973 Sacred Heart College building programme added a new classroom wing including a library, science laboratory, typing room and convent renovations. 1968-1970 Father J.O'Callaghan appointed assistant priest and Chaplain to Puckapunyal. Father 'Joc' remained in the Army Reserve into the mid 1980's. 1969 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by his Grace Archbishop Knox on 22 June. 116 candidates confirmed. 1970 - 1974 Father Bryan C. Donovan, appointed Parish Priest. 1969 - 1973 Father R.J. Bob Maguire was appointed in November 1969 to full time duties in the Deptartment of the Army and posted to the National Service Training Battalion at Puckapunyal. With the completion of full time service, Father Bob remained in the Army Reserve until the mid 1990's. He was an innovator in Character Guidance Training for the Australian Army and was a distinguished lecturer in Joint Services Character Leadership Courses for senior Service Personnel. He was appointed Senior Catholic Chaplain to the 3rd Military District and has been awarded the RFD and AM. 1971 The Seymour Telegraph in an article on July 22 reported on the visit of Bishop John Cullinane to St Mary's Seymour to install the first Pastoral Council after the Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday afternoon 18 July. The parishioners elected twelve members of the Council to work with the priests of the parish or the spiritual and temporal welfare of the parish, so that eventually all parishioners will gradually be involved in a closer sharing of the work of the church, by taking part in activities which the council may sponsor. Members of the Council are: Mrs J. Garratt, Mr. J. McMahon, Rev. Fr. Dargan, Mr M. Molony, Mrs M. Sewell, Mr V. Hall, Sister Bernard Moylan, Mr F. Stuart, Mr G. Sutton, Mr J. Kennedy, Mr B. O'Sullivan, Mr B. Plieger, and Mr M. Hanrahan. Fr. B. Donovan PP, Mrs M. O'Sullivan (secretary), Mr A.Spencer (chairman), Mr F. Sanderson. 1971-1974 Father John Dargan appointed assistant priest. 1973 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop T.F. Little on 24 June. 105 candidates confirmed. 1974-1982 Father Vincent Cooley, appointed Parish Priest. 1974 Father Jack Stuart assistant priest till 1976. 1975 Father Bryan Cosgrove 'Bluey' Donovan dies at North Blackburn at the age of 44. In the Advocate of November 13, Archbishop Frank Little said of Father Donovan: he loved the priesthood and was always singing its praises. Young Bryan Donovan always said he would be a priest. He did not need the Second Vatican Council to highlight the rich meaning of the presbyterium... he just loved it all his life. Father Bryan Donovan will be remembered with love and affection in his former parish of Seymour (1970-1974). 1975 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by his Grace Archbishop Little on 31 October. 76 candidates confirmed. 1976-1980 Father John Williams appointed assistant priest. 1977 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 10 July. 79 candidates confirmed. 1977 St Mary's Parish Bingo commenced on 15 September in St. Mary's Hall. 1979 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by his Grace Archbishop Little on 5 August. 87 candidates confirmed.1980 Plans were made to extend Sacred Heart College into the nuns' convent. This eventuated in 1985 when the new convent was opened at 64 High Street. 1980-1982 Father Frank Bellett appointed assistant priest. 1981 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 5 April. 90 candidates confirmed.1982-1989 Father Leo Pascoe, Parish Priest. 1982 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 23 July. 19 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; The Parish Corpus Christi Procesion took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. 1982 Father Vincent Creed is made a Pastor Emeritus. 1983 To celebrate the feast of the Sacred Heart a special mass was celebrated by Fr. A.K.Toms, the military chaplain from Puckapunual. Present students of the College sang the Mass and many of the Sisters who had taught at Sacred Heart College or had been educated there were present. Visitors were very happy to renew acquaintances with their teachers. 1983 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 17 April. 96 candidates confirmed. 1984 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Puckapunyal Hall on 27 July. 35 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1985 The Sisters of Mercy transferred their convent buildings to the Archdiocese and re-located to a new, purpose built convent at 64 High Street. 1985 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 28 April. 83 candidates confirmed. 1985 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 13 July. 17 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1985 Bernie Dillon recalls the George Jones' Stations of the Cross. "In 1985 the Parish Priest at the time, Father Pascoe, commissioned George Jones to paint the Stations of the Cross using local identities. The paintings were sketched first and then painted. I was lucky enough to represent St John which I enjoyed doing very much. My attire for the painting was shorts, singlet and boots. I am not sure of the whereabouts of the paintings now but would love to know". (Editor's note: It is believed that a number of the George Jones' Stations of the Cross were returned to Father Pascoe). 1986 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 23 July and 16 August. 32 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1987 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 30 August. 37 candidates confirmed. 1987 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 11 September 19 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher.1988 Sacred Heart College merged with St. Mary’s Primary School to become St. Mary’s College Seymour (P-10) with Sister Rose McGiffan as Principal. 1988 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by his Grace Archbishop Little on 30 October. 33 candidates confirmed. 1988 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 20 May. 23 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1989-1995 Father Graham Redfern, Parish Priest. During Father Redfern’s years as Parish Priest the 1963 presbytery was totally refurbished into a modern building incorporating office and living accommodation. St Mary's Parish celebrated its Centenary 1890-1990. 1989 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 27 August. 29 candidates confirmed. 1990 The Seymour Telegraph April 17 on page 3 carries an article on the Centenary restorations for St Mary's Parish. The Telegraph records that: the people of St Mary's Parish, Seymour and Tallarook, have with the approval of the Archdiocese of Melbourne, undertaken a 3-6 years commitment to upgrade parish buildings and their surrounds. Work has already commenced on the parish church and hall. This major undertaking, consisting of a complete cleaning and painting of the exterior and interior of both buildings has been contracted out by the Diocesan Building Commission to Michael Tumbers, renovators and painters of Bendigo. The Parish Priest of St Mary's Father Graham Redfern, stated that with the support of his people he expects the restorations and refurbishment of the parish church to be finished in time for the Parish Centenary Celebrations to be held from Sunday August 5 to Sunday August 12, 1990. Major works needed are: 1. restoration and refurbishment of the church building; 2. Provision of comfortable living quarters for the present parish priest and those to follow; 3. An administration centre; 4. Major upgrading of the Parish hall; 5. Maintenance and improvement to the Parish College. Pictured in the same article is a photograph of Father Redfern and the contractor Mr Michael Tumbers inspecting the church restoration in a cherry picker. The Telegraph concludes: For the people of St Mary's and St Joseph's, the next 3-6 years provides an opportunity for much personal and spiritual growth development. In this centenary year let's hope that those who come after us will be able to look back and say: "Well done and thanks for handing on such a vibrant and Christ-like parish," said Fr Graham. 1990 The Melbourne Advocate of July 19 records: St Mary's Parish Seymour will be holding its Centenary Celebrations from 5 August till 12 August. The programme lists the events: Sunday 5th August: Latin Mass, Julian Singers; Monday 6th August: Mass and Luncheon for the Elderly, 11am in the church; Tuesday 7th August: School Open Day, St Mary's College; Friday 10th August: Centenary Dinner Dance, 7.30 pm at the High School Assembly Hall including the launch of the Centenary Booklet; Saturday llth August: Back to Seymour (Period costume of choice), 11am Photographic and Memorabilia display in the Church Hall, (Morning Tea available), BYO Lunch. 1.30 pm Remembrance Service at Pioneer Park and Seymour Cemetery; 2.30-3.00 pm Devonshire Tea. Sunday 12 August: 12 noon Centenary Mass, 11.30 am Motorcade from the Historical Hume & Hovel Monument to the Church. Presentation of Papal Blessings. Unveiling of Plaques, (Priests and Sisters of Mercy), Official Luncheon. Family Luncheon (Beef on Spit). 3.00 pm Time Draw. 7.00 pm Fireworks (Pending). 1990 The Seymour Telegraph on August 15 reports Cr Bart O'Sullivan is Seymour's new Shire Resident. Pictured with the new Shire President is his fiancee Leanne Ridd. In the same edition the telegraph reports that St Mary's Parish, Seymour celebrated its centenary year with ten days of varied activities which involved past and present parishioners. There were many highlights, the Telegraph reports, which included the Centenary Mass celebrated by Archbishop Sir Frank Little, Latin Mass, luncheon for the elderly, Open Day at St mary's College, Centenary Dinner Dance and launch of the centenary booklet, Back to Seymour with photographic and memorabilia displays, a remembrance service in Pioneer Park, motorcade, the presentation of Papal Blessings and unveilling of plaques, time capsule, raffle draw and fireworks display. The Parish priest Father Graham Redfern said he was delighted with all aspects of the centenary celebrations and the many parishioners and visitors who had been involved in them. He also paid tribute to the Centenary Committee and the many people and businesses who had substantially contributed to the success of the celebrations. A photograph shows four former St Mary's school students, which included the three Hunt sisters, Sheila, Claire,and Aileen, joined with Maureen Ruscoe (Rolfs) in period costume of the day. 1990 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 19 August. 29 candidates confirmed. 1990 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 1,2 and 8 June. 58 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1991 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 8 September. 47 candidates confirmed. 1992 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 21 August. 34 candidates confirmed. 1992 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 4,5 and 6 June. 58 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1993 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 10 September. 24 candidates confirmed.1994 Mr. Adrian Mitchell appointed the first Lay Principal of St. Mary’s College. 1994 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 6 May. 31 candidates confirmed. 1994 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 3 and 4 June. 39 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1995 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 15 September. 28 candidates confirmed.1996 Father Greg Bennet appointed Parish Administrator (Jan-Jun). Monsignor Anthony K. Toms appointed Parish Priest in June. 1996 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 13 September. 31 candidates confirmed. 1996 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 6 June. 1996 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 29 June and 4 July. 43 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1997 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 1997 The Parish Corpus Christi Procesion took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 29 May. 1997 A Thanksgiving Campaign was conducted over the month of July with a result of $1,287.00 pledged per week. Over all this meant an increase of 45%. 1997 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 20 June. 28 candidates confirmed. 1998 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 1998 An invitation was extended to parishioners by Monsignor Toms and the Parish Finance Committee on April 28 to discuss the future of the Parish Hall. Three fundamental questions were put to the gathered parishioners: 1- Does the parish need a hall? 2- Is it practical or feasible to repair and restore the present hall? 3- if not do we have the meas to build a new hall? It was unaminously agreed that we need a hall. To the second question, after hearing the engineers and architects reports on the status of the hall and the quoted cost of around $230,000 to restore with no guaranjtee that further cracking would not occor, and as we have a parish debt, it was decided to consider the third question. After lengthy discussion the assembled parishioners decided to look at the cost of building a new hall. A New Hall Committee was to be formed 1998 The Parish Financial Advisory Committee met on May 23 and examined draft drawings of the proposed new hall. The plan is to be displayed in the church foyer for parishioners perusal and invited comments, in writing, to Monsignor Toms or the Hall Committee. 1988 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 11 June. 1998 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by his Grace Archbishop George Pell on 11 September. 27 candidates confirmed. 1998 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 3 July. 14 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 1999 The Blessing of the site of the New Parish Hall took place on Sunday 7 February by Monsignor Toms prior to the Morning Mass. Following the blessing a procession from the site to the church took place when a Missa Cantata was sung to conclude the blessing. 1999 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 1999 Construction commenced in February on the new St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Hall Committee Members were: Messrs: Bernie Gray, Phil Jarvis, Bernard O’Sullivan, Frank Tebble, Adrian Mitchell, Mrs Pat Spykers and Mrs Maria Muscovich. 1999 The 60th Anniversary of the Blessing of the Foundation Stone of the church by His Grace Archbishop Mannix on 16 March. The occasion was celebrated with Mass of the Dedication of a Church. 1999 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 3 June. 1999 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Monsignor Anthony K. Toms on 10 September. 23 candidates confirmed. 1999 On Sunday 11 September Archbishop George Pell opened and blessed the new St. Mary’s Parish Hall after which the Archbishop blessed the new and refurbished classrooms of St. Mary’s College. Following the blessings a gala afternoon tea was enjoyed by four hundred parishioners on the parish lawns and basketball courts where marquees were erected for the special occasion. The Seymour Telegraph on Wednesday 15th September writes in part: " Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr George Pell, was the central figure in the blessing and opening of the St Mary's Parish Hall, new St Mary's College classrooms and refurbishments to the College. Other official guests at the opening ceremony on Sunday were the member for McEwan Fran Bailey, Mitchell Shire Mayor Faye Ure, past and present clergy from the parish including Father Vin Cooley, representatives from the other Seymour church groups, architects,contractors, St Mary's College Board of Education, parishioners and their families. More than 350 people attended the afternoon's official blessing and opening. Seymour Parish Priest Monsignor Anthony K.Toms led the official proceedings while church and school representatives spoke on the future of the parish, the new hall and classrooms. St Mary's College students performed sacramental duties during the blessing ceremony, whilst other pupils presented choral and liturgical dance items. School Captains Abby White and Michael Smith gave a short address to the Archbishop and the visitors, explaining the importance of the parish community to the district. Parishioner Mr Phil Jarvis spoke on the old hall's history and encouraged the parish to be proud of the new facilities and to make full use of them. The last time a building at Seymour's Catholic parish was blessed, was on Sunday, 12th March 1939, when Archbishop Mannix commemorated the laying of the Foundation Stone of the new Immaculate Conception Church building. The Seymour Advertiser of the 14th September records that it was poor weather and that Tom Tehan Jr had to hold an umbrella over His Grace the Archbishop as he laid the Foundation Stone. Mr Jarvis went on to state that the church is the spiritual heart of the parish, but the hall is the social heart. The present parish is leaving a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Archbishop Pell in his official opening homily, expressed his pleasure at seeing the marvelous sign of vitality of the vibrant parish in Seymour. He stated that it showed that there is a continual need for Catholic education for our society, for the country's future and that of the church. The Archbishop touched on the civil unrest in East Timor, and expressed his concern for the falling down of the rule of law there and how the law of the jungle seems to have taken over. This type of civil action stressed the importance of community". At the comclusion of the ceremonies Monsignor Toms thanked His Grace for travelling to Seymour to bless and open the new hall and the new classrooms of St Mary's College. A marquee was erected on the tennis courts for afternoon tea and refreshments. 2000 The old church/parish hall was demolished on 21st March to make way for a landscaped lawn and playground area for the children of St. Mary’s College. The bricks from the old church hall were later used in the construction of the new College wall, popularly known as the “hall to wall”. The wall was designed by a parent and member of the College Board Dr. Jack Kettlewell. 2000 A Symposium on Mary's Apparitions was held on Saturday 25 March. The Symposium began with Mass combined with Laudes and concluded with Vespers and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Topics discussed were: Lourdes, Rue de Bac (Miraculous medal), Fatima, Medjugore, La Salette and Garabandal. 2000 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2000 The Parish Corpus Christi Procesion took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. on 25 June. 2000 The following is taken from the Sunday Bulletin 23 July. This year marks a special milestone in the history of the Sisters of Mercy and the Seymour Parish. It was on 15th May 1900 that five Sisters travelled from Mansfiend to establish their Order here. The Sisters moved into a cottage in Crawford Street and lived there for three years until 1903 when a dedicated convent was built and finally blessed by His Grace Archbishop Carr in October of the same year. To mark the occasion the Sisters of Mercy have requested that they return to Seymour and attend the Parish Mass on Sunday 10 September. During their visit they will visit the two cemeteries where deceased Sisters are buried. Following Mass there will be a reception held in the Parish all to which parishioners are invited, particularly past pupils, teachers and those who have had a relationship with the Sisters over the years. Further details will be given as the time draws near. Mons Toms will be asking for generous parishioners to proviode cakes, pavlovas, slices etc for the lunch in much the same way as we did for the opening of the hall. 2000 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. 2000 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 8 September. 29 candidates confirmed. 2000 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 29,30 September. 49 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher; Messrs Bernie Gray and Bill Maher. 2000 Fr. Michael Vincent Cooley died on 23 November after a long illness. Fr. Cooley was Parish Priest of St Mary's from January 1974-January 1982. In retirement Fr. Cooley lived at Macedon. A number of parishioners attended his funeral at St. Bridget's Church Gisborne. Archbishop Pell was principal celebrant and Archbishop Eric D'Arcy a class mate at Corpus Christi College preached the panegyric. 2001 A Palm Sunday Musical Meditation was presented under the direction of Mr. John Bumford and a combined choir comprising the Mitchell Singers and the Euroa Little Theatre Choiristers. The Meditation centered around the work of English Composer John Stainer's The Crucifixion - A Meditation on the Sacred Passion of the Holy Redeemer. 2001 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2001 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 17 June. 2001 Visit to the parish and St. Mary's College by the Prime Minister, +the Hon. John Howard, MP, on 6th September. 2001 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 14 September. 27 candidates confirmed. 2002 Pastoral Visit to the parish by His Grace Archbishop Denis Hart, 13-16 February. The following is taken from the Parish Bulletin of February 3rd. St. Mary's Parish is to be honoured by a Pastoral Visit from our new Archbishop His Grace Denis Hart on Ash Wednesday and the following Saturday evening to celebrate the Vigil Mass. The itinerary for His Grace will encompas the following: Celebrate our Ash Wednesday Mass, bless and distribute the ashes. At the conclusion of Mass parishioners are invited to a morning tea in the Parish Hall to meet and informally chat with His Grace. Following morning tea His Grace will visit St. Mary's College where he will be met by the Principal Mr. Adrian Mitchell and receive a briefing on the College before visiting the children and students in their class rooms. Of particular interest will be the Prep-Year 10 classes, new science laboratory, library, information technology lab where His Grace will observe the various age groups at work on their computers. Lunch will be taken with the Staff, keeping in mind the Ash Wednesday regulations regarding fasting and abstinance from meat! Following lunch His Grace will travel to St. Joseph's Tallarook and have an opportuinity to meet with the Tallarook parish community led by Margaret Seymour a long time resident and sacristan of the church. It is planned that Archbishop Hart will have time to meet with parishioners at the Presbytery between 3.30pm and 5.00pm. It would be appreciated if parishioners wishing to speak with his Grace first make an appointment with Monsignor Toms so as to schedule visitors. As indicated earlier His Grace will return to Seymour on Saturday evening to cvelebrate the Vigil Mass. His Grace has an approachable and warm nature and wishes to bring himself closer to his Seymour parishioners. 2002 The visit to the the Church of the Immaculate Conception of Saint Therese of Lisieux's Relics during the Relics Australian Pilgrimage on 14 March. The Parish Bulletin of March 3 announced: The relics of St. Theresa of Lisieux, the Little Flower, will pass through Seymour and visit St.Mary's Church on Thursday 14 March at approximately 2.00pm in the afternoon while in transit from the Diocese of Ballarat to the Diocese of Wagga Wagga via Albury. This is a unique opportunity for parishioners to both pray and view the sacred reliquary which will remain in its travelling vehicle during the stop over. A continuous Rosary will be recited during the visit. 2002 Palm Sunday afternoon music. St Mary's was the venue for the Lenten-Easter Choral and Orchestral work of John Bumford's : Beyond That of Any Man. The choir comprised the Mitchell Singers, the Euroa Little Theatre Choisters and the Diamond Valley Singers. The Oratorio wasl be conducted by Mr John Bumford and the narration by Mons A.K. Toms. 2002 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2002 First Holy Communion Sunday 16 June. Thirty One children received the Blessed Eucharist for the first time. 2002 The Parish Corpus Christi Procesion took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 9 June. 2002 During June of 2002 it came to the notice of Monsignor Toms that two parcels of land were coming up for sale at 94 and 96 High Street. One block bordered next to St Mary's College frontage at 94 High Street and the second block, a smaller triangular piece of land used for the agistment of horses at 96 High Street. After consultation with the Diocesan Property Office and the approval of Archbishop Hart, the two parcels of land were purchased for the amount of $150,000. The acquision of this land now expands St Mary's College to the far north-east side of Whitehead's Creek, as far as, and along the railway line to the existing oval boundary along McIntyre Street. This land will provide a second oval for the College, future basketball courts and recreational facilities and a future agricultural learning precinct for the students. 2002 St Mary's being a rural parish and confronted with drought commenced prayers for rain on the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 2002 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 13 September. 20 candidates confirmed. 2002 St. Mary's Parish Bingo celebrated its Siver Jubilee on 15 September. Bingo has run every Thursday evening since 1977 with the exception of Christmas Day. 2002 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 12,13 April. 41 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher and Mr. Bernie Gray. 2002 On Sunday 17th November a Parish census was begun in preparation for the next Thanksgiving Campaign. 2003 J.S. Bach's St. John's Passion was presented in the church on April 16, at 8.00 pm. John Bumford directed the Euroa Little Choristers, Mitchell Singers, Orchestra and guest soloists. Admission was $10.00 with a $7.00 concession to cover costs. Supper followed in the Parish Hall. 2003 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2003 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 21 June. Today was also the occasion of our First Holy Communion, when 32 children received the Blessed Eucharist for the first time. 2003 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 12 September. 25 candidates confirmed. 2004 On Monday 5th of April the Mitchell singers accompanied with instruments and a scriptural narration performed John Bumford's newest Lenten work, The Passion According to Saint Luke. 2004 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2004 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 20 June. 2004 Monsignor Toms celebrated his 40th anniversary of his Ordination on 25 July. To mark the special occasion the parishioners held a luncheon in the Parish Hall and made a presentation of power tools to Mons Toms. Present were his sister Trish and brother in law Peter Chisholm. 2004 A Trivia Night has held to raise funds to defray the interest costs on the Parish Hall. It was a most successful night with approximately 100 parishioners and friends attending. $1,013.00 was raised. Special thanks to Margaret Winnell and Sue Anderson for orgainsing the occasion. 2004 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 10 September. 22 candidates confirmed. 2004 Mr. Peter Kelly appointed by Monsignor Toms as the new Principal of St. Mary’s College. 2004 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 9 July. 26 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher and Mr. Bernie Gray. 2005-2006 A major redevelopment of the St. Mary’s College Student Quadrangle took took place including the paving of the Quadrangle, the garden landscaping and the erection of seven shade sails in College colours. A mosaic of the College Crest was inlaid in the centre of the Quadrangle. Following the 2006 Opening Mass and appointments of College leaders, the principal Mr. Peter Kelly invited Monsignor Toms to bless the new refurbishment. 2005 Disaster struck the World on Boxing Day 2004 with the disasterous tsunami. Over the following weeks St Mary's parishioners contributed a magnificent amount of $6,237.00 to assist the victims of the tsunami. The contributions were sent to the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem who together with a further $46,763.00 built 50 fishing boats and dwellings for the islanders of Nias in Indonesia. 2005 Vale Pope John Paul II -- 2 April. Cardinal Joseph Alois Ratzinger elected Pope on the 19th of April with the name Benedict XVI. He becomes the 265 successor of Saint Peter. 2005 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2005 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 5 June. On the following Sunday thirty six children received the Blessed Eucharist for the first time. 2005 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 7 October. 21 candidates confirmed. 2005 A new sanctuary carpet is laid at St Joseph's Tallarook to replace the well worn carpet, "that was always there". 2006 St Mary's Tennis Club celebrated 60 years on Ferbruary 4th. A highlight of the day was afternoon tea followed by a tournament. The day concluded with a BBQ and a social evening. 2006 Following the St Mary's College Scholastic Year Opening Mass, Monsignor Toms, in a twilight ceremony, blessed the College mosaic crest in the newly refurbished Quadrangle on 15th February. 2006 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2006 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 28 May. The previous week saw 31 children make their First Holy Communion. 2006 On Sunday 3 September the Parish Thanksgiving renewal was conducted by the Parish Finance Committee without outside assistance. It saw increases of forty five new contributors and $400 a week. The Thanksgiving Campaign was conducted with minimal cost of $783.00 and was a great saving in professional fees to the parish. 2006 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Seymour High School Hall on 30 June and 1 July. 33 Debutantes were presented. They were trained by Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher and Mr. Bernie Gray. The Debutante Ball this year marked the presentation of the 500th Debutante, (Miss Jessica McCann partnered by Mr Joshua Suffredini) bringing the total number of Debutantes trained by Alice, Moira and Bernie to 507. 2006 Sacrament of Confirmation administered by Bishop Joe O'Connell on 13 October. 30 candidates confirmed. 2007 April 25. The Memorial ANZAC Day Mass was celebrated at 0800 hrs. in the church concluding with The Ode, Last Post, silence and Rouse. 2007 A Parish Mission, the first in forty years, was given by Father Michael Corriveau CPM, of the Fathers of Mercy from Auburn, Kentucky, USA over the week of 12-17 May. The Parish Mission was well attended by parishioners and visitors from nearby Tallarook, Avenel, Broadford, Yea and Nagambie. 2007 The feast of Pentecost on 27th May was the occasion for First Holy Communion for 32 children. 2007 The 29th May saw the signing of the contracts for the new Technology Wing of St. Mary's College by Monsignor Toms and Mr Peter Kelly with the appointed tenderers W&P Contractors. The architect for the project was Mr Garry Hunt. Work began in mid June and will be completed in November of this year. 2007 The Parish Corpus Christi Procession took place around the church gardens at 2.00 pm and concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on 17 June. 2007 The Sacrament of Confirmation on September 7 was conferred on twenty candidates from the parish by our recently appointed bishop to the northern region, Bishop Timothy Costelloe SDB. This was Bishop Costelloe's first visit to Seymour and following a visit to those to be confirmed in the evening Monsignor Toms took the Bishop on a tour of the church facilities and St Mary's College where Bishop Costelloe had an opportunity to meet members of staff and inspect the new Technology Wing which will be completed by October's end. Earlier in the day Bishop Costelloe met with St Mary's College Principal Mr Peter Kelly. 2007 Thursday 13 September was the thirtieth anniversary of St Mary's Bingo. St Mary's Bingo was introduced by the then parish priest, Father Vin Cooley, on Thursday 15 September 1977 and has played continuously every Thursday night with the exception of Christmas Day. To mark the historic occasion a commemorative inscribed glass was presented to each player on the night. Phil Jarvis caller on the first night is still calling and called on the anniversary night. Bill Francis and Bernie Gray sellers on the inaugural night are still active members of the Committee. For further information on St Mary's Bingo, return to our Home Page, go to Parish Groups and follow the prompts. 2007 On Sunday 9 December the parish hosted the Melbourne Opera Orchestra and the Victoria Chorale in a presentation of the Messiah by George Frederick Handel.The Director/Conductor was Matthew Toogood, Leader - Tatiana Chudnovskaya, Soprano - Felicity Baldock, Mezzo Soprano - Belinda Paterson, Tenor - Matthew Davine and Bass - Adrian Tamburini. Principal sponsors were The Ian Potter Foundation, Roy Morgan research, The Robert Salzer Foundation and The Age. Lady Potter attended the presentation. The main aisle and transepts of the church were filled to capacity and applause was appropriately given at the end of each part.The Hallelujah , perhaps the best known Chorus of the Messiah, was responded to with great jubiliation by the audience. In thanking the Melbourne Opera Orchestra and Victoria Chorale, Monsignor Toms requested an encore of the Hallelujah Chorus to which the Chorus, Soloists and Orchestra responded with a highly spirited presentation. With the encouragement of Lady Potter another such presenetation, by a different composer, will be made in 2008. 2008 On Friday 7 March St Mary's Parish hosted the Ecumenical International World Day of Prayer in conjunction with people from 170 countries around the world. Around 50 representatives from the Seymour Churches attended the Service and took part in the scripture readings. Year 7 students from St Mary's College read the Psalm. Monsignor Toms spoke on the situation of Christian women in Guyana and around the theme, God's Wisdom provides New Understanding.. Mrs Enid Simpson of the Salvation Army was the Convenor and Mrs Beth Sweetman from St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church was the Organist. A fine collection was taken up for the International World Day of Prayer. 2008 On Saturday evening, after Mass on the 15th of March ,Parishioners held a surprise party in the Parish Hall to wish Monsignor Toms a Happy 70th Birthday for the 21st March which happened to be Good Friday this year. A vehicle satelite navigation instrument was presented to him from the parish and a large chocolate mud cake was also given to him which was cut and passed around. Mr Phil Jarvis was MC for the evening and proposed the toast to Monsignor Toms who replied by thanking the surprise committee for their kindness in arranging his birthday celebration and his hope to remain as parish priest for many more years to come. 2008 A new milestone in the history of St Mary's College took place on Wednesday the 7th of May with the Blessing and Opening of the newly constructed Creative Arts Wing and Multi Purpose Sports Courts. The day began with Mass for the College and Parish community on the occasion of Family Week. Following Mass, around 10.30am, all gathered in the newly landscaped quadrangle infront of the Creative Arts Wing. College Principal Mr. Peter Kelly welcomed distinguished guests, Monsignor Anthony K. Toms, Parish Priest Seymour; Mr. Stephen Elder, Director of Catholic Education; Mrs. Fran Bailey MHR, Member for McEwan; Cr. Bob Humm, Mitchell Shire President; Sr. Rose McGiffin RSM, Mercy Sisters; Mr. Keith Hunter, Principal St. Patrick's School Kilmore; Mr. Steve Pink, Principal Seymour Primary School;Mr. Michael O'Sullivan, President St. Mary's College Board; Mrs. Ann Maree Gregson, President St Mary's Parents & Friends; Mrs. Jan Keogh, Catholic Education Office; Mr. and Mrs. Gary Hunt, Architects; W&P Contractors; Mr. Ian Harvey, ProjectLandscaper and College Captains Bridget Brock and Liam Baird. A letter of apology was received from Cr. Bill Melbourne, previous Mayor and a past student of the College. In his welcome address Mr Kelly read a message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education Mrs. Julia Gillard MHR. Funding for the project came from the Commonwealth Capital Grant: Investing in Our Schools Programme. Monsignor Toms conducted the blessing prayers and then blessed the crucifixes, held aloft by student representatives, to be then placed in each of the four new rooms. During the Blessing Rite , the College choir sang appropriate hymns after which Mr Kelly then invited the Director of Catholic EducationMr Stephen Elder to address the assembly. Mr Elder gave an inspiring speech to the assemblage and exhorted the students to fully utilise the facilities that had been provided for them. In breaking with tradition Mr Elder invited College Captains Bridget Brock and Liam Baird to join with him in declaring the New Creative Arts Wing open. Mr Kelly concluded by thanking all who had made the occasion possible to Mr Gary Hunt Architect, W&P Contractors, St Mary's College Board for their oversight of the project and particularly to Mrs Fran Bailey MHR, Member for McEwan and Cr. Bill Melbourne who over the years have worked assiduously for the good of the College. Finally Mr Kelly thanked all members of the College Staff and students for their efforts. Visitors were invited to inspect the complex led by Year 10 students as guides. A sumptious morning tea was served in the Parish Hall. 2008 St Mary's Debutante Presentation Ball was held in the Seymour High School Hall on Saturday 12 July with the presentation of twenty four Debutantes to the community. Three months of weekly Sunday evening practices and rehersals combined to make for a most successfull and enjoyable evening. Mrs Alice Hall presented the Debutantes. Following the formal presentation, the Debutants and their partners delighted their families with a number of specially selected dances after which parents joined the Debutantes on the dance floor. A sumptuous Ball Dinner was prepared by Ken's Catering and served at the tables. Special thanks to Mesdames Alice Hall and Moira Maher and to Messrs Vin Hall and Bernie Gray who trained and coordinated the Debutantes and partners.Thanks also to the sponsors from the Seymour community who supported the Ball and to Showtime Band who provided a brass and wind quintet throughout the evening. 2008 With Spring being just around the corner, on Saturday 9th August, Monsignor Toms organised a working bee to cut the grass and trim the garden beds around the presbytery, church and hall. Twelve able bodied volunteers began work at 8.00am and all projects were completed by 10.30am. For those able to stay morning tea was provided. St Mary's always has a good turn out when a working bee is called. 2008 The conferral of Confirmation this year coincided with the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and was one of the spiritual high points of the year. Sixteen children and one adult were confirmed by Bishop Timothy Costelloe SDB. During the homily Bishop Costelloe pointed out that the candidates would receive the Gift of the Holy Spirit, which included the spirit of wisdom and understanding; the spirit of right judgement and courage; the spirit of knowledge and rverence; the spirit of wonder and awe. The choir sang the principle parts of the Mass, which included the Ecce Sacerdos Magnus on the arrival of Bishop Costelloe and the Veni Creator Spiritus during the confirmation liturgy. Mrs. Alice Hall sang Schubert's Ave Maria as a Communion reflection for the Feast of the Assumption. At the conclusion of Mass before the final blessing and the conferral of certificates , Monsignor Toms thanked Bishop Costelloe and coming to Seymour, the candidates, teachers and catechists, the combined parish and college choirs, the organists and musicians, sacristans and altar servers, parents and families of the candidates who supported them over the months of their preparation and to all who contributed to the spiritual happiness of the evening. 2008 The Feast of All Souls. The traditional Parish Mass commemorating the Souls of the Faithful Departed, particularly those buried in the Seymour Cemetery was celebrated by Monsignor Toms that afternoon.It was pleasing to see the large number of parishioners who traveled to the cemetery to take part in the Mass. Following Mass, family members and friends stood by their family graves while Monsignor Toms said a shot prayer and blessed the individual grave with Holy Water. 2008 On December 14, George Frederick Handel's Messiah was performed in St. Mary's Church, by the Melbourne Opera Orchestra and the Heidelberg Choral Society under the musical direction of Matthew Toogood who conducted the performance. The orchestra was composed of twenty five instruments and led by first violinist Chantal Roddy. The principal artists were Margaret Haggart - Soprano; Belinda Paterson - Mezzo Soprano; Edmond Choo - Tenor and Adrian Tamburini - Bass. The conventual Chorus was composed of fifty members. Seymour Sponsors of the performance were Michael Molony and Staff P/L and Hair Boutique, The Mall. Lady Primrose Potter AC, a great patron of the arts, attended the performance. The Ian Potter Foundation is one of the major sponsors of the South East Regional Touring Opera/Melbourne Opera. At the conclusion of the performance which took a little over two and a quarter hours, Monsignor Toms thanked the Principals,Chorus and Orchestra for a truly inspirational afternoon of hightened spiritual feeling and thought. Approximately one hundred and fifty patrons attended the Messiah, and expressed a desire for a return performance towards the end of 2009.
2008 The third Sunday of November has now become our traditional weekend in linking
ourselves with both present and past parishioners who have generously donated the
many and varied items to the parish for our use in the adoration and service of God.
Our altars, sacred vessels, vestments, requisites for Eucharistic devotion, statues,
brassware, stained glass windows, altar linen, furnishings, tabernacles, sanctuary lamps,
are all in daily use due to the generosity of benefactors. Many of the items have been
inscribed by donors requesting that prayers be said for the repose of their souls.
We honour that request at all the Masses this weekend, the Third Sunday of November.
2008 Piety Stall Christmas Raffle results. 1st Nativity set - Vivienne Sewell; 2nd Stanley
Screwdriver set plus $15 Car wash Tokens – Lynne Byrne; 3rd 11 pce Nativity set
plus $15 Car wash Tokens – Rosie Cornelious; 4th $30 Woolworths Gift Card plus
$15 Car wash Tokens – Jean O’Sullivan; 5th Xmas Day Table helpers plus $15 Car wash
Tokens – Monsignor Toms; 6th Folding Camp Chair plus $15 Car wash Tokens – Aileen
O’Keefe; 7th Sweet Smells of Summer – Margaret Flynn; 8th Music Box & assorted
Toffees – Carmel O’Sullivan; 9th Set of four Christmas Mugs – Peter Gruneklee;
10th Santa’s Bucket Plus – Carmel O’Sullivan. Many thanks to all who supported the
raffle. Ticket sales amounted to $308.00 with all prizes donated. Proceeds will go
towards the repair and maintenance of our altar brassware.
(extract Bulletin 21 December 2008)
2009 On Monday we celebrate our National Day. Every Country celebrates its National
Day in its own way, some with military or civic parades through the streets, concerts
and public speeches, flag waving, sporting events, and even family or street BBQ’s.
A public holiday inevitably is given to the populace if it falls on a weekday.
Australia Day means something different to every citizen. To many it is a day of
National pride, a day of gaining Citizenship, a day of historical achievement,
a day of future aspirations of a new republic or maintaining strong links with the
Great Britain. It can be a day for family and public gatherings. Australia Day is our nearest holiday to a thanksgiving day. Let’s not forget to thank
God for the opportunity of being Australian and for what this Land has given us
collectively and individually.As Australians we have taken and we have undoubtedly
given to our nation. Australia Day is a time to reflect upon what we have achieved
and what we can be proud of in our great nation - our people, our fragile country
now experiencing a great drought, our celebrated freedom and democracy.
These characteristics have contributed to Australia 's unique identity and culture,
and have made it the great nation. On Monday in the celebration of our morning Mass
let us thank God for all the graces, opportunities and gifts we have received
by being Australian (extract from Bulletin 25 January 2009)
2009 On Thursday morning March 26th a warm welcome was extended to the ladies of the
Parish to visit the presbytery after Mass at 9.30am. They were invited to bring along
dusters, cobweb brooms, vacuums, domestos, cleansel, "bon ami", sabco floor mops,
rubber gloves and protective clothing to give the presbytery spruce up. A non-lent
morning tea was provided as laid down in the scriptures: see Luke 10:7.
2009 ANZAC DAY 2009 the 94th Anniversary Saturday is set aside as the ‘one day in
the year’ to solemnly remember those who went to war to fight for our country’s
freedom. It is the one day in the year when all Australians and New Zealanders
think about those who answered the call of their country in times of war. Anzac Day
is a day when many remember their fathers, grand fathers, brothers and sisters,
relatives and mates who never returned from war. It is a day to show respect for
the sacrifices and courage of the defenders of Australia and New Zealand.
Anzac Day is not a glorification of war, rather it is a day when we reflect on the
awfulness, the death, the destruction, the futility and horror that it brings.
Each year we remember those killed and wounded in war, we should pray, if at all
possible, that wars should never happen again. We must look towards finding an
alternative to war so as to make our world a more peaceful place. Those who went
bravely to war, who fought and died for Australia are remembered all over the
country in cemeteries, on plaques, war memorials, shrines and cenotaphs, hospital
rolls of honour. In Seymour we remember at the Memorial Gates of the Hospital
and the Memorial on Anzac Avenue. Let us make sure that we do not forget the men and women of the Australian
Defence Force who will be celebrating Anzac Day today in Afghanistan, Iraq and
other overseas peace keeping missions. (extract from Bulletin 19 April 2009)
2009 The parish welcomed back to Seymour Father David Ryan SJ who “pulpit swapped”
with Mons Toms while he celebrated the Xavier College Commemorative Anzac Day
Mass.
2009 The parish welcomed back Father Peter Taffe to Seymour while Monsignor Toms
was in Brisbane attending the National Chapter of the Order of Saint Lazarus of
Jerusalem.
2009 On Sunday 14 June the parish celebrated the feast of Corpus Christi with the
traditional Eucharistic Procession around the church gardens, stopping at various
stations for a blessing with the Blessed Sacrament. The procession concluded with
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the church.
2009 On Sunday 21 June at a special mid-day Mass thirty one children received the
Blessed Eucharist for the first time. Every pew in the church was filled with parents,
grand parents, and family and a very holy and happy day was had by all.
2009 The Parish Bulletin on the weekend of 4-5 July announced that St. Mary’s College
has been successful in securing a $2,000,000 grant from the Commonwealth
Government to build a multi-purpose gymnasium/hall as part of the Government’s
stimulus plan to keep the many arms of the building industry viable. The design plans
have been drawn and work is expected to start by the end of July. Tenders have
been called and will be opened on this week. The site chosen for the multi-purpose hall
is at the McIntyre end of the present basket ball/tennis courts. The multi-purpose
hall will combine a gymnasium, change rooms along with provisions for music and
drama. The hall will include a stage for productions and assemblies and also have
limited kitchen facilities.
2009 The Parish Bulletin on the weekend of 11-12 July further reported that St. Mary’s
College has received a further grant under the Commonwealth’s Stimulus Building
Programme for a new Science Wing consisting of two science classrooms
with demonstration laboratories for practical experiments and also includesa teacher
preparation area.. This is in addition to the new Multi-Purpose Hall/Gymnasium
announced in last weeks Bulletin. The two grants were awarded under the criteria:
1- the Multi-Purpose Hall/Gymnasium is intended for Primary Schools who do not
have such a facility, and 2- Science Laboratories, for Secondary Schools.
St. Mary’s College is in the unique position of teaching classes up to and including
Year 10 amd so meet the criteria.
2009 On Monday 27 July Monsignor Toms signed the contract for the Multi-Purpose
Hall/Gymnasium with Landmark Constructions enabling formal work to begin on
Friday 31 July. Mr Gary Hunt is the Architect.
2009 On Wednesday 29 July Monsignor Toms and College Principal Mr Peter Kelly
conducted a Blessing Liturgy on the site for the new Multi-Purpose Hall/Gymnasium.
Following the Blessing, Mr Kelly ceremoniously broke the ground with a pick donated
for the purpose by parishioner Mr Corn Spykers. The Ceremony was witnessed by a
selective group of St Mary's College Students who also participated in the historic
event.
2009 Wednesday 5 August saw the signing of the Contract for the new Science Building
by Monsignor Toms with Landmark Constructions. Mr Gary Hunt the College Architect
has drawn a magnificent drawing of the future science rooms which consist of two
classrooms with a dedicated area for practical experiments in each and connected
to a teachers preparation area and safe storage for apparatus and chemicals.
The College science teaching staff have all had the opportunity to add their inputs.
2009 The Parish Bulletin on 23 August reported on this year's Confirmation. A week ago
on 14th August, the Principal of St Mary's College, Mr. Peter Kelly, welcomed
Bishop Tim Costelloe SDB our regional bishop to Seymour to confirm thirty four
Candidates with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
The church was filled with parents, grand parents, relatives and family friends of
the Candidates. The combined choir comprising members of the parish choir and
St Mary’s College choir welcomed the entry of Bishop Costelloe with the inspiring
entrance hymn Ecce Sacerdos Magnus. Parts of the Mass that were sung were, the
Lord Have Mercy, Glory to God in the Highest, Holy-Holy-Holy, Lamb of God.
During the conferral of Confirmation the Veni Creator Spiritus was sung. At the
conclusion of Mass Bishop Costelloe handed each Candidate a signed certificate
to mark the occasion. Monsignor Toms then thanked Bishop Costelloe for confirming
the candidates, the college teachers, parish catechists, combined choir, acolytes
and altar servers, sacristans and not least the candidates and their sponsors.
2009 St. Mary’s College Auction Night 21 August. The following is from this week’s
Marian newsletter. Another great success was the Auction Night held last Friday
evening in the Parish hall. A huge crowd attended to offer their support and enjoy
the social event. Mr. Peter Kelly, on behalf of the College community acknowledged
Mrs. Jennifer Gilham, Mrs. Ann Maree Gregson, Mrs. Sue Hall, Mrs. Susan Lubeck,
Ms Lynne Morgan, and Ms Trish Green for their incredible teamwork and organization.
Mr. Michael O'Sullivan and his team conducted the auction of over forty items,
bringing in the highest bids imaginable.Over 130 members of the College and Parish
communities attended the gala night which was proclaimed a magnificent success.
At the time of writing approximately $24,000 was raised which will go toward
the purchase of lap top computers for every student in the College.
Next week’s Marian No. 27, 3rd September 2009 will list all the fundraising details.
2009 On the First Sunday of Advent 2009, St. Mary’s Parish Seymour presented
George Frideric Handel’s Messiah to the people of Seymour. Messiah has become an
annual musical presentation at St. Mary’s in preparation for the birth of Our Saviour
at Christmas. Messiah was written by Handel in the Summer of 1741 between 22 August
and 14 September. It was first performed in Dublin on 13 April 1742 and in London
the following year. Handel’s last public appearance was at a performance of Messiah
on 6 April 1759. He died a week later on 20 April 1759 and was buried in
Westminster Cathedral on 20 April 1759.
As in previous years the South East Regional Touring Opera of the Melbourne Opera
Orchestra with the Heidelberg Choral Society was directed and conducted by Matthew
Toogood. Principals were: Felicity Baldock, Soprano; Selena Pettifer, Mezzo Soprano;
Matthew Davine, Tenor and Adrian Tamburini, Bass. The orchestra was led by
Bernadette Baker and conducted by Matthew Toogood.
The solos and duets of the principals were inspiring and uplifting and together with the
chorus and orchestra stirred the hearts and minds of all present. As is the custom all rose
to their feet at the Hallelujah Chorus which reverberated throughout the outstanding
acoustics of the church. Monsignor Toms, in congratulating the artists on another
magnificent performance, requested an encore of the Hallelujah Chorus in response
to the continued applause of the patrons to the delight of all present.The compilation of the Parish History is on going and will be regularly updated as events take place and new historical details are uncovered. Special acknowledgments are due to Laurie Corboy who undertook extensive research into the archives of Melbourne Advocate dating back to the mid 1850's. To Bernie Gray our parish archivist and to Bill Francis, Margaret Flynn, Phil Jarvis, Sharon Royals, Frank Tebble who supplied historical documents and to Sue Anderson for reading the entries. -- Anthony K. Toms, Web Master