On the 10th September, 2023, the Albanian Catholic Community came together to honour their patron Saint, Mother Teresa of Calcutta in a beautiful Mass held at Mater Christi Church at Seaton celebrated by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan DD and concelebrated by Father Tomas Ruiz CS, PP of Seaton, and Father Angelo Cagna CS, Italian Chaplain to the Seaton Community.

Beginning with a procession around the grounds of the Mater Christi Church; the community prayed the rosary together in Albanian, Italian and English. 

This was a very special day – as two great women were remembered, revered and prayed for – St Mother Teresa of Calcutta – deeply loved by the community for her care for the poor; and The Franciscan Sisters of St Anthony – who serve in the Seaton Parish, were celebrating another step in the beatification of their foundress: Mother Miradio of the Providence of St Gaetano!

During the Homily, Archbishop Patrick O’Regan read out the decree for Mother Miradio, endorsed by Pope Francis. This was a very proud and awaited occasion for the Franciscan Sisters of St Anthony who have been in Adelaide serving since the late 90’s, invited to minister Pastoral Care at our Aged Care Facilities. Their Pastoral care work extends to the physical, emotional, recreational, cultural and spiritual needs of the care recipients as well as providing assistance and support to their families.

It is obvious these two women and their legacy of missionary sisters are living out the mission of Jesus in a very real way.

A life size Statue of St Mother Teresa, erected by the Albanian Community, supported by the Mater Christi church was unveiled in 2022.  It was an event that united the many different cultural communities that celebrate Mass at Mater Christi every weekend and was remembered fondly this day.

Parish Priest, Father Tomas, praised the Albanian community and the sisters showing the deep love he has for all his people. 

The Albanian Community lovingly shared this feast and their joy with the Franciscan Sisters of St Anthony – Sr Quintillia, Sr Judith, Sr Dora and Sr Philomena were all present and participated in a blessing along with the Archbishop of their foundress.

After the Mass the people enjoyed a meal together and watched the amazing Albanian Dance School performance.