St John Vianneys Class of '79

Saint John Vianney's Story

A man with vision overcomes obstacles and performs deeds that seem impossible. John Vianney was a man with vision: He wanted to become a priest. But he had to overcome his meagre formal schooling, which inadequately prepared him for seminary studies.

His failure to comprehend Latin lectures forced him to discontinue. But his vision of being a priest urged him to seek private tutoring. After a lengthy battle with the books, John was ordained.

Situations calling for “impossible” deeds followed him everywhere. As pastor of the parish at Ars, John encountered people who were indifferent and quite comfortable with their style of living. His vision led him through severe fasts and short nights of sleep.

With Catherine Lassagne and Benedicta Lardet, he established La Providence, a home for girls. Only a man of vision could have such trust that God would provide for the spiritual and material needs of all those who came to make La Providence their home.

His work as a confessor is John Vianney’s most remarkable accomplishment. In the winter months he was to spend 11 to 12 hours daily reconciling people with God. In the summer months this time was increased to 16 hours. Unless a man was dedicated to his vision of a priestly vocation, he could not have endured this giving of self day after day.

Many people look forward to retirement and taking it easy, doing the things they always wanted to do but never had the time. But John Vianney had no thoughts of retirement. As his fame spread, more hours were consumed in serving God’s people. Even the few hours he would allow himself for sleep were disturbed frequently by the devil.

Who, but a man with vision, could keep going with ever-increasing strength? In 1929, Pope Pius XI named him the patron of parish priests worldwide.

You don’t see re-inforcements like that any more...

Cost for the night = $50 per head
3 course meal & entertainment included
Drinks available at bar prices
The meal is a choice of 2 entrees, 2 mains & 2 desserts:
ENTREE
Roasted Butternut Pumpkin, Baby Spinach, Baby Beetroot & Orange Salad
OR
Thai Style Beef Salad served on a bed of Asian Greens
MAIN
Grilled Barramundi Fillet served w a Butternut Pumpkin Risotto, Sautee Broccolini & a Lemon Butter Sauce
OR
Crispy Skin Duck Breast, Pommes Souffle, Caramelised Apple & Jus Gras
DESSERT
Soft Centred Chocolate Pudding & Baileys Ice Cream
OR
Coconut Panacotta w Hazelnut Biscotti & Strawberry Coulis

TEA & COFFEE STATION

Vegetarian, gluten free and special dietary requirement meals can be prepared if requested 7 days prior to the event.

Fairy Meadow Bowlo are ready and waiting for the big event on Saturday, 26th October