The Cobram Uniting Church Mission Luncheon, in support of the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal, was an outstanding success, with more than 90 people supporting the event on a beautiful sunny winter’s day.
Some travelled from as far away as Shepparton, Mooroopna, Nathalia, Yarrawonga and Katamatite to join the local community members who were out in full force to enjoy the story of the guest speaker for the day, Father Junjun Amaya.
He spoke about his journey from the Philippines to Australia.
Cobram Uniting Church Ladies Guild president Margaret Watson said the inspirational leader of St Joseph’s Cobram, Yarrawonga and Katamatite churches told of his life as one of 11 growing up in the Philippines, and in becoming a priest where he was treated like a king in his homeland, being waited on hand and foot.
When arriving in Australia 17 years ago, Father Junjun found life was very different to his homeland, as priests were expected to do everything for themselves.
Nevertheless, even though he often experienced homesickness for his family in the early days, he is loving life in Australia and has found the people friendly and supportive.
“St Joseph’s Cobram is certainly blessed to have such an inspirational leader, so full of life, in their midst,” Ms Watson said.
Father Junjun was presented with a small gift in appreciation of giving up his valuable time to be guest speaker at the luncheon.
A finger food lunch of sandwiches, hot savoury delicacies and sweets was enjoyed by all.
“A highlight was Barbara White’s magnificent doll, teddy and craft display, all of which she had handcrafted over the years. She is a very talented lady in our community,” Ms Watson said.
“The Cobram Uniting Church Ladies Guild express our appreciation to everyone who supported the day and are pleased to announce, due to the outstanding success, further donations will be made later to some of the deserving groups in the local community as part of their mission.”