And a platonic partnership at that; a working arrangement to keep the church and its congregation moving forward.
Enter Christine Sebire, whose determined and dedicated approach to her role as pastoral associate for Des is anchored on her passion for her church and her beliefs.
“The greatest danger to our church,” Christine insisted, “is getting stuck in our ways and become outdated, not speaking to the times”.
“We strive to keep our church relevant. “It’s very challenging when we are dealing with issues the church is going through, such as sexual abuse.”
In recent times sexual abuse has been the elephant in the chapel, and St Mary’s is doing everything it can to distance itself from its colossal shadow.
“We just hope when people meet us, they look at us for who we are, not for the actions of others.”
It’s an incredibly in-your-face opening to an interview, but it is an openness and transparency being embraced by all staff at St Mary’s Parish.
Working alongside Christine (centre) is Colleen Edwards (left) in administration and Colette Porter (right) as assistant pastoral associate.
The three of them are devoted to keeping St Mary’s a relevant part of the twin towns.
“We are always looking for new ways to reach out to the other communities,” she said “We represent the parish at different events, such as reconciliation walks and various homeless support groups.
“Because Father Des can’t make it to every single thing, we will represent the parish and reaffirm our place in Echuca.”
Christine said it has been through Father Des’ leadership that St Mary’s has grown in a dynamic and empowered way.
“As a result, those who work under him do their very best to support him, and make sure he can carry on that role with the least trouble.”
Sometimes it can be as simple as fixing internet issues, the printer, or reminding him what’s on in the diary.
As Christine explained it: “It’s everything from pastoral to churchical roles”.
“It can be planning the liturgy, going to meetings in place of Des, lots of liaising with schools, and with the other parishes.”
But it’s not just the daily churchical roles and community concerns on which the trio spend their time.
They also help the resident Brigidine Sisters with their work on assisting refugees.
“We are significantly involved in the support of refugees here at St Mary’s,” she said.
“And we have a lot of support from the Catholic community in Echuca.”
It’s through work such as this that St Mary’s hopes to rebuild trust in the Catholic brand with the broader community.
“To be seen walking the talk is really significant to us.”
Meet the other powers behind the pulpit Robert Lees: Echuca Moama Uniting Church
Roslyn McAllan: Echuca’s Community Church
Yvonne Schroder: New Life Baptist Church
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