THE bicentenary of the first Mass celebrated in Australia is an opportunity to reflect on the way Australian society has changed in that time.
Before 1803, the many Irish Catholics who were transported to Australia as convicts did not have access to weekly Mass.
They were probably greatly in need of spiritual sustenance in their lives due to the harsh conditions they endured.
Today, most Australians, who are still in need of spiritual fulfilment, have ready access to the Eucharist, and yet they choose not to attend.
The times may have changed but God is still dwelling among us.
However, the distractions of modern life mean that the recognition factor isn’t there.
