Aged care community helps Catholic priest celebrate fifty years of service

The Catholic community at a Shepparton aged care home have recently celebrated the Golden Jubilee of their very own priest.

Shepparton local Father John Naughton is a resident of Southern Cross Care Shepparton, where he generously conducts a weekly Sunday Mass for the residents, despite being retired.

On June 24, Father John celebrated 50 years as a priest with a Golden Jubilee Mass at St Brendan's Church in Shepparton, the same location of his ordination into priesthood in 1964.

The celebratory mass, brimming with pomp and ceremony, was attended by Father John’s friends, family and fellow priests from across the Diocese of Sandhurst.

Southern Cross Care Shepparton pastoral carer Liz Grogan, who also attended the mass, said it was a fitting tribute for one who has made so many sacrifices.

“Father John doesn’t make too much of a fuss, so it was lovely to have a fuss made of him,” Ms Grogan said.

A little nervous before the big day, Father John was overwhelmed with gratitude following a moving eulogy given by long-term friend and colleague, Monsignor Frank Marriot.

Monsignor Marriot spoke fondly about Father John’s contributions to the Church, particularly his dedication in the role of chaplain at Bendigo’s hospitals, where he devoted 20 years.

“My role as a chaplain was the highlight of my vocation,” Father John said.

“To see the healing powers of the sacraments, to continually meet new people and feel like I was able to support them during trying times was deeply rewarding.”

The residents of Southern Cross Care Shepparton hold a deep regard and admiration for Father John. Around 30 to 40 residents regularly attend his Sunday service in the home’s onsite chapel.

Not all in a position to attend the Golden Jubilee Mass at St Brendan's, the residents were given the opportunity to pay tribute to Father John with a special ceremony at their own chapel a few days later.

Ms Grogan said the residents enjoy having a priest in their midst.

“People of the Catholic faith know he’s there and that’s enough for them,” she said.

“It gives them a great deal of comfort.”

The relationship between Father John and the staff is built on similar respect.

“The nurses know that if someone took unwell in the middle of night, Father John wouldn’t leave them in the lurch,” Ms Grogan said.

All of the Southern Cross Care Sheppartone staff, from the carers to the managers, were overjoyed to participate in the milestone occasion.

“It’s important to recognise our residents as more than just someone living in our small community,” Ms Grogan said.

“And it’s a big deal to us as well.”

Image: Sharing the proud moments were Father John Naughton’s brother, Peter and his wife Carmel. CONTRIBUTED.