On the Feast Day of Our Lady this weekend, an outside mass at Villa Maria Hunters Hill Sydney was celebrated by  Father Aliki. This was followed by  a dedication for “Our Lady of Philermos” roses planted surrounding a statue of “Our Lady”.

Order of Malta member, Cons. Deirdre Page organised the event with Fr Aliki, with parish members and five Dames and Knights also present.

Fr Aliki led a prayer to “Our Lady of Philermos” followed by music and singing provided by the Holy Name of Mary Parish Ukulele Group and a special birthday cake for “Mary” and refreshments.

All ladies and children present were given a red rose which delighted everyone.

The Our Lady of Philermos Rose project is an initiative that directly aligns with the mission of the Order of Malta. It has both spiritual significance and offers hands-on engagement with our Lords poor and sick.

Volunteers will distribute roses to patients in palliative care facilities, care homes and hospitals. The charitable act of gifting the rose, and the interaction with volunteers, intends to bring the recipients comfort and joy.

Volunteer opportunities will also exist outside of the distribution, with volunteers planting, caring and cutting roses. The Order of Malta Australia has engaged parishes, ACU campuses and aged care facilities across the country to provide garden space to grow the roses.

Learn more: https://www.orderofmalta.org.au/rose/