A monk from the mountains of Lebanon continues to inspire big faith in the heart of Revesby.
St Luke’s Parish will celebrate the feast of St Charbel on Sunday, 20 July, beginning with a 10am Mass led by Bishop Daniel Meagher, followed by a vibrant celebration in the parish grounds.
There will be food stalls, entertainment, music and plenty of opportunities for the community to come together in joy and thanksgiving. All are invited.
The parish’s devotion to St Charbel – a Maronite monk and hermit known for his miracles, healing and deep spiritual life – has grown over the years, drawing people from all backgrounds.
“When I first came to our parish, I noticed a strong devotion to St Charbel,” said parish priest Fr Dariusz Basiaga. “His legacy continues to inspire countless believers around the world.”
In 2023, a first-class relic of St Charbel was brought from Lebanon to the parish through the efforts of parishioners and with the support of Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP.
Then in July 2024, Archbishop Fisher celebrated the feast day Mass, enshrined the relic inside the church and blessed newly commissioned statues of both St Charbel and St Luke.
“This marked the first time a relic of a Maronite saint was installed in a Roman Catholic church,” Fr Dariusz said.
“Having St Charbel’s relic and statue brings deep spiritual nourishment to our community. He is a symbol of prayer, sacrifice and unity.”
Parishioner Rita Nokodyan is a member of its St Charbel prayer group and credits St Charbel with healing her from stomach cancer.
She said the parish is “so proud, so blessed” to house the relic of the popular saint.
“I prayed with all my heart for a healing,” she recounted in a social media post.
“His face was full of light. He was so gracious, so beautiful. He put his hand on my stomach and said my child you are healed.”
