Bishop Francis Meli Celebrates Vocation Sunday at St Francis of Assisi Chaplaincy.

The spirit of faith, service, and community filled St Francis of Assisi Chaplaincy on Sunday as His Grace, Most Reverend Bishop Francis Meli joined the faithful to celebrate Vocation Sunday in a Mass that was both uplifting and deeply meaningful.

His Excellency, Bishop Francis Meli accepting offertory gifts from the gift bearers at St. Francis of Assisi parish

Families, friends, and members of the wider Catholic community gathered in large numbers, creating a vibrant atmosphere of prayer and unity. Among those present were residents of the Gordons Police community, surrounding faithful, and congregations from Goldie River Training Centre and Bomana Police College, whose presence added to the joyful occasion.

The celebration began with a reverent entrance procession led by parishioners from Bomana Police College, setting a solemn and prayerful tone for the liturgy. The choir from Goldie then lifted hearts throughout the Mass with beautiful hymns that filled the church with warmth and devotion.

During the Liturgy of the Word, Bishop Meli delivered a powerful homily inspired by the Gospel of the Good Shepherd. Reflecting on Christ’s words that sheep know the voice of their shepherd, he called on members of the police force to see their profession not only as a duty, but as a vocation of protection and care.

“You the police, God has given you the duty to protect the innocent,” Bishop Meli told the congregation.

The elevation of the Sacred Host during the Consecration at Mass

He encouraged officers to model themselves on Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who never abandons His flock, but guides, defends, and serves with love.

The Bishop also shared a personal reflection on his own journey of vocation, recalling the moment he was asked to leave behind his priestly ministry in order to answer a greater call to serve as bishop. He spoke honestly of the prayer, discernment, and commitment that came with accepting such responsibility, offering the faithful an inspiring glimpse into the meaning of saying yes to God’s call.

He then invited the faithful to continue praying for him, for fellow bishops, for priests, religious men and women, and for all people seeking to serve God through their chosen professions and daily lives.

Following the Prayer after Communion and final blessing, the Mass concluded in a joyful spirit. The faithful warmly invited Bishop Meli to share a light lunch with the community, where fellowship and conversation continued beyond the church walls.

The Vocation Sunday celebration was more than a Mass. It was a reminder that every calling, whether in the Church, in public service, or in family life, can become a path of love, sacrifice, and faithful service to others.