One of the St Mary’s Parish men’s group organisers, Doug Black, said although the closure of churches during lockdowns had been difficult, it also demonstrated the importance of men coming together in prayer and fellowship.
“Particularly during the Victorian COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, many viewed the men’s group gatherings as a real lifeline for them,” he said.
The parish has facilitated men’s gatherings for a number of years, initially in an informal and infrequent manner.
In 2020, when COVID-19 restrictions prohibited face-to-face gatherings, the group began to meet online via Zoom. It turned out to be a masterstroke.
“The first meeting was a very positive one and the decision was then made to meet via Zoom every week, on Saturday mornings,” Doug said.
Over the past 18 months, the group has virtually doubled in the number of regular attendees, with up to 30 men now coming together every week. Where possible, the group will meet in person while also hosting a Zoom meeting simultaneously, allowing those from other locations to participate.
The meetings include music, prayer, sharing and reflection on the upcoming Sunday Gospel passage, and discussions about practical assistance needed within the parish community.
Doug said the men’s group had been a source of many blessings to those involved, and to the parish.
“When COVID-19 restrictions prevented access to the weekly Mass and Eucharist, the Saturday morning sessions were ‘church’ for us,” he said.
“The men have grown closer to each other, and deep friendships have formed, enabling men to share their deep thoughts and needs and to support each other. We have all grown in our faith through the sharing of Scripture and discussion, and men are striving to grow in faith during their day-to-day lives.
“There is greater participation in the parish by all of the men within the group. The success of the men’s group has also inspired others in the parish, and now a new women’s prayer group has been formed.”
Matthew Biddle for the St Mary’s Catholic Parish
