By Robin Williams
ST Brigid’s Parish, Nerang, had a surprise visit on July 13 from one of Australia’s newest priests.
Nerang parish priest Fr Rafal Rucinski attended Fr Bing Monteagudo’s ordination in Lismore, northern NSW, on July 7 and said he was more than happy to welcome him to St Brigid’s for the Sunday Mass.
“He rang me Saturday afternoon to ask if he could say Mass, and I think it is wonderful for our parishioners to have the opportunity to see such a young priest up at the altar,” Fr Rafal Rucinski said.
Fr Monteagudo has been associated with the Gold Coast parish throughout his priestly formation, and his mother Cilvia Andrson was also present at the Mass.
“I have been part of this congregation sometimes every Sunday during my vocation through the seminary because my sister lives here in the parish,” he said.
Fr Monteagudo told parishioners it was a wonderful opportunity for him as a new priest “because the community of St Brigid’s Parish here in Nerang is one of the gifts that I have received on the Monday when I had my ordination”.
He also asked the Nerang community to continue to pray for him.
“I remember you in my prayer and hopefully you will see me again here and won’t get tired of my face,” he said.
Members of St Brigid’s Filipino community were keen to congratulate Fr Monteagudo on his ordination.
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