The Holy Spirit at work in the Narooma parish
Margaret Latimer stands proudly next to the banner (directly left of the banner) with parishioners from Narooma
Earlier this year, Margaret Latimer was struck with the sudden idea to create a banner for the Holy Spirit.
The Narooma parish secretary had no idea where the idea had come from, but when Archbishop Christopher Prowse announced the Year of the Holy Spirit in August, she knew it was time to get to work.
“I knew then that I really had to move and create this banner,” she said.
“When I first began, I thought it was to remind us to embrace the Year of the Holy Spirit; however, as I was working on it the meaning became deeper and I knew that I had to call it Peace and Unity under the Southern Cross, which meant Australia.”
Margaret said while we continue to pray for peace in the world in troubled times, we are also reminded to pray for our own country to stay peaceful and united and for our nation’s leaders to act and lead for the good of this country and its people.
“I hope that the banner will show the importance the Holy Spirit has in our lives and look at the gifts and the fruits of the Holy Spirit,” she said.
“Personally, when I handed the banner over to Father Joe and he hung it up, I found it difficult to describe the joy and the love I had around me and I still do. I hope it gives parishioners joy, comfort and peace knowing that the Holy Spirit is always with us.”
The banner depicts native flora and fauna in appreciation for God’s creation and indigenous designs to acknowledge First Nations people, set against a night sky featuring the Southern Cross and the Holy Spirit.
Father Joe Tran said the banner reminded parishioners of the blessings given to them as a people and country.
“The flowers represent each state and make us who we are and that we ‘Walk Together’,” he said.
“Reflecting on the Year of the Holy Spirit, we are inviting all to continue in the spirit of ‘Walking Together’ in our communities and the Church. This journey led by the Holy Spirit will lead us to discover gifts of life in each of us as a community and as a nation.”
Margaret said when the altar lights are on, the Holy Spirit and the stars of the Southern Cross shine in the banner.
“One cannot help noticing, so I believe it sends a message as you enter the church,” she said.
“It has been a spiritual journey for me to create this banner.”