On this Christmas Day, as we gather around the mystery of the Incarnation—God-with-us—I want to pause and express, on behalf of our parish family, a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers and staff who make our celebrations not only today, but throughout the year, truly beautiful and grace-filled.
So much of what happens in this parish is done quietly, faithfully, and without seeking recognition. Yet today, we want to acknowledge you.
We thank our sacristans, readers, altar servers, choir leaders and choir members, eucharistic ministers, children’s liturgy coordinators, altar flower arrangers, stewards and ushers, fire wardens, and our Sunday hospitality team who serve tea and coffee with a smile. Your service helps us pray well, sing joyfully, and gather as a community of welcome.
We thank the many who serve behind the scenes—those who organise Mass attendance cards, work in the Repository, clean the church, care for altar linens, and bring comfort and Communion to the sick and housebound. Our young people – doing offertory collections, our money counters, and those who care for our parish hall.
We recognise and deeply appreciate the dedication of our sacramental teams: our baptism coordinators, First Holy Communion and Confirmation catechists, and our RCIA catechists who journey with adults seeking faith. You help shape disciples of Jesus.
We thank those who support our parish administration—office assistance, website management, social media, and running errands for parish and office work—ensuring communication and organisation run smoothly.
We offer a special word of appreciation to Fr Renato Andrade, Goan Chaplain, for his pastoral support and ministry to our parishioners of Osterley.
We thank our SVP members, Catenians, and parish representatives of CAFOD, CARITAS, Justice and Peace, and Red Box (Missio). Your charity and outreach extend the love of Christ beyond these walls.
My dear friends, whether your contribution is seen or unseen, public or quietly offered, occasional or continuous—know this: your service is a blessing. You are the hands and feet of Christ in this parish. Through you, the Gospel is lived and the love of God becomes tangible in our community.
Most importantly, we thank each of you who show up on Sundays or other days, with your patience, prayers, and praise.
On this Christmas Day, as we contemplate the Child in the manger, we give thanks for each of you—for your time, your gifts, your dedication, and your faith.
May the Lord reward your generosity and may the light of Christ continue to shine through your service.
A blessed Christmas to you and your families. Amen.