Traditionally, celebrations would begin with a novena, and on the third Sunday of September, a mass would take place at St Anthony’s Catholic Church.
The mass would be followed by a procession of the faithful from all Sydney suburbs.
This year, the fraternity was loath to let the COVID-19 public health orders prevent its solemn celebrations from occurring.
Instead, the novena – presided over by Roseanna Gallo, Armando Papallo and Josie Howes – was held online via Zoom every evening.
Many seniors within the community overcame their fear of technology to participate in the recitation of the rosary.
With the help of their children and grandchildren, some were masters of technology by the end of the week.
The novena was also attended by Father Pasquale Pizzaferro, the chaplain of the Our Lady of Grace Fraternity.
Gallo organised a PowerPoint presentation dedicated to the deceased members of the community, which was displayed during the Zoom session.
On Sunday, September 19, the celebrations began with a live stream of the recitation of the holy rosary.
This was followed by a solemn holy mass, celebrated by the parish priest of St Anthony’s Catholic Church, Father Greg Cooney, who also gave the homily.
The live-streamed mass included songs and music from Gallo herself, who was joined by the rest of the liturgical entourage: Armando and Barbara Papallo, and Domenico Olivieri.
Before the mass began, the president of the Our Lady of Grace Fraternity, Vince Murdocca, greeted the public and thanked attendees for their participation.
Thanks to the success of the rosary streamed via Zoom, the fraternity has decided to continue this event every Monday evening at 7:00 pm.
Those interested in participating can contact Gallo on 0418 692 410, or via email.
More information can be found on the website.
