The Maronite Eparchy of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania marked a historic moment on 25 September, when the major relic of St Carlo Acutis was welcomed at Our Lady of Lebanon Co‑Cathedral, in Harris Park.
Hundreds gathered for a solemn procession carrying the relic into the cathedral. This was followed by a mass celebrated by Bishop Antoine‑Charbel Tarabay, assisted by the parish priest, Fr Danny Nouh.
The event was part of the Saint Carlo Acutis Major Relic Mission 2026.
In his homily, Bishop Tarabay reflected on the spiritual legacy of St Carlo Acutis and the challenge of Christian discipleship in a digital age. “We live in a world fascinated by followers,” he said. “But Carlo would have asked a much deeper question: Whom are you following?”
He described Carlo’s life as simple yet profoundly centred on Christ: “His program of life was simple: ‘Always to be united with Jesus.’ Not I, but God.”
Highlighting Carlo’s ability to use technology for evangelisation, Bishop Tarabay added, “The internet could have become a mirror, but Carlo turned it into a window towards Christ.”
He also emphasised the significance of the relic present among the faithful. “We are not simply looking at something connected to Carlo’s heart. We are being asked what filled that heart,” he said. “The answer was and always will be Jesus Christ.”
Bishop Tarabay also welcomed Kate Hobbes, president of the Friends of Carlo Acutis Australia. She addressed the congregation after the mass, with a reflection on the mission and on the importance of bringing St Carlo’s relic to Australia.
The bishop also announced an important milestone for the parish, “On the evening of 12 October, we will bless the new chapel dedicated to St Carlo Acutis here at OLOL located on Level 1 of our Pastoral Centre.”
Bishop Tarabay said that he was delighted to see young people request a chapel dedicated to a young saint who continues to inspire them.
