In true Lebanese style, the Maronites of Sydney will pull out all stops for a week-long celebration leading up to the feast of Our Lady’s Assumption that is expected to attract thousands.
The week of festivities at Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral in Harris Park will include Masses, talks, prayer, Adoration, raffles, rides and, of course, plenty of Lebanese food.
Organisers from Our Lady of Lebanon Parish said the week—which always draws huge crowds—will bring together both “the spiritual and social aspects” of the faith.
Mass for the Feast of the Transfiguration will begin the celebrations on 4 August, followed by a Market Festival featuring the Bearded Bakers from KNAFEH.
Known for their dance moves as well as their baking of the sweet Lebanese bread known as Knafeh, the Bearded Bakers are sure to delight.
During the week a novena will be prayed beginning on 6 August, the date marking 40 years since Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral was first opened in 1978.
Australia’s own St Mary MacKillop will also be honoured with a special Mass on her feast day, 8 August.
A candlelight procession under the title, “Embrace our Youth O Morning Star,” will take place on 10 August to invoke Our Lady’s intercession. One of the main highlights of the week will be the Annual Parish BBQ and Festival Rides Night on 11 August, which is expected to draw around three to four thousand people. The evening will feature live Lebanese and English entertainment.
On the Feast of the Assumption—15 August—Solemn Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay followed by HRISSI Night featuring live entertainment.
Organisers emphasised that everyone—whether Maronite Catholic or not—is welcome to attend and join in the celebration of faith, friendship, food and fun.
More information: www.olol.org.au