Easter songs, with lyrics symbolising joy and rebirth, resounded throughout the church, adding to the ambience of such a deep and communal liturgy.
Father Daniele Sollazzo, the Parish priest at the helm of this revival, did not hide his excitement at seeing such an increase in the number of worshippers.
“A significant novelty of this Mass was the substantial presence of young families,” said Father Daniele.
“[It was] a remarkable change for a congregation that usually sees an attendance of about 30-40 people, mostly elderly.”
Father Daniele believes the attendance of around 80 people is a strong sign of a renewed interest in the church, especially among the younger generations.
“I was pleased to see that there are young people still interested in the faith,” he said of the mass that bucked the general trend of declining faith among younger people.
Masses in Italian, like this one, have the power to unite different generations of Italian migrants. From those of the first wave who sought in its prose a bridge to the past, to the youth who choose to keep their cultural and spiritual roots alive.
In attendance were also members of Sydney’s African community, in particular from Nigeria, many of whom have lived in Italy and wish to continue practicing Italian in what is a diverse and inclusive community.
