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Jesuit Social Services to kick off milestone year with Mass

Jesuit Social Services has a number of events planned to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Jesuit Social Services will commence a year of celebration and reflection to mark its 40th anniversary, with a special Mass at 10am this Friday 3 February at St Ignatius’ Church in Richmond (326 Church St, Richmond).

Historical photo from Jesuit Social Services

Historical photo from Jesuit Social Services

It will be concelebrated by the Provincial Fr Brian McCoy SJ, and Fr Pat O’Sullivan SJ, who was Provincial at the time of Jesuit Social Services’ founding. Music will be provided by Xavier College students.

Mass will be followed by morning tea at the Jesuit Social Services office behind the church. Please RSVP for catering purposes to vanessa.ientile@jss.org.au or call 03 9421 7600.

Jesuit Social Services helped its first young people in 1977. Since then, it has grown to support over 5000 people through more than 20 different programs in Melbourne, Western Sydney, Central Australia and Darwin.

The anniversary program will feature a wide variety of events, including program showcases, a policy symposium, fundraising activities and a celebration to thank volunteers. More information will be provided in the coming months.

‘This anniversary is an exciting milestone in our history and development’, said Julie Edwards, CEO of Jesuit Social Services.

‘It gives us an opportunity to reflect on our work with people who are most marginalised in our community, and look forward with hope and courage, as we strive to build a just society.’