Dear Archbishop Comensoli,

We, the people of St. Andrew’s Werribee, humbly request that Fr Anil Mascarenhas continue in his role as our Assistant Priest in our parish. Due to the effects of COVID 19, almost a year of his priestly ministry in Werribee has been impacted.

For the past three years, we have been blessed to have Fr Anil as our Assistant Priest. From the moment he arrived at his very first Parish, Fr Anil has worked tirelessly to build up the community of believers, by his connectedness and humility. His solid and faithful witness to Christ and proclamation of the Kingdom of God has been paramount to his mission. He never tires from proactively evangelising and building up the community of faith. Fr Anil has joyfully, consistently and enthusiastically stood firm in encouraging the faithful, especially the young people to have Christ first in their lives. He has called the young people to a faithful relationship with Jesus and has put into place opportunities for the young to participate in the faith life of the Church and grow their personal holiness.

We understand that he has already completed three years in Werribee, however, we feel his strong pastoral leadership and guidance is still needed to strengthen our young people. With more time, Fr Anil will have the opportunity to build up young leaders in our parish, who would then, with God’s help, lead their peers. With solid formation, clear vision and parental support, the young people can take up the leadership roles and responsibilities in St. Andrew’s Youth Group. We pray that our youth will bless, not only our community, but the whole Church.

We sincerely thank you for considering our request. As you are aware, our young people are the future of the Church. In a world increasingly hostile to the faith, we as a Parish are confident that under Fr Anil’s guidance, through the power of the Holy Spirit, St Andrew’s Youth are receiving quality faith formation.

Yours in Christ,

The Faithful of St. Andrew’s Parish Werribee.