Fr. Jophin Joy parish priest in the Numurkah and Nathalia Catholic Parishes was guest speaker.
Fr. Jophin grew up in a middle-class farming family in India, farming 5 acres mixed crops, relying on physical labour due to hills.
At the age of 15 years began orientation at a seminary. Three years orientation, then three years Bachelor of Theology. Believed that he could help others by joining priesthood. After ordination first posting was to a Pilgrim Centre then 2011-15 assistant priest and from 2015-20 a parish priest.
Sought to go to Australia for pastoral ministry but had to wait 2 years before borders opened. Arriving in Melbourne with a fellow priest, taken to Bendigo then moved at Shepparton as assistant priest. Now parish priest for Numurkah and Nathalia Parishes.
Every day a new experience with language and culture. Well supported by parishioners in his new role
Challenges, with the grace of God, he can face.