An inaugural fundraising event held in Sydney’s west raised the roof while raising more than $100,000 for orphans in the world’s poorest communities.
Organised by Somascan Movement Australia, a local charity based in Moorebank, hundreds of guests gathered at Liverpool’s Macquarie Paradiso for a night of food, fun and fellowship on 11 February.
Motivated by the plight of various impoverished communities in Mozambique, India and Sri Lanka, the Somascan Missions Dinner Dance aimed to raise funds in support of the physical and spiritual care of those orphaned and in need.
The atmosphere was electric as guests were entertained throughout the evening by House DJ Mr Jayson, Live music group Finesse and Salsa Duo Gustos and Julieth.
Sketch and mural artist D Muly headlined with his live painting that was completed over the course of the night.
His masterpiece of the Holy Family was later sold for $25,000, with all funds going towards Somascan Missions.
After a small video presentation, highlighting the communities in need of assistance, Fr Chris de Sousa CRS delivered a powerful keynote speech on the work of the Somascan Fathers while drawing on his own missionary experience.
Due to the generosity of many local businesses and individuals, both the Silent Auction and Raffle included over 60 prizes that ranged from beauty products to Red Balloon experiences.
Somascan youth member Kayla Kristin took home the top raffle prize which was an 18ct gold medal and necklace of Our Lady which was donated by Nader Jewellers and valued at over $1500.
“It was a complete joy to witness such immense support for the Somascan Orphanages,” said Kayla.
“Equally, it was a joy to win the first raffle prize; a Miraculous Medal on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
“At an event run by a community with a great love for Our Lady. It was truly meant to be.
“I couldn’t be more amazed and grateful.”
As the MC, Deacon Benjamin Saliba was impressed by the community feel of such a major event and credits the Somascan’s charism of Paternal care.
“The Somascan movement is growing in Australia and this was typified by the support, both personally and financially in the evening,” said Deacon Ben.
“Thanks be to God for this amazing group of young men and women that put so much time and effort into ensuring the evening ran smoothly.
“It is also a testament to the Fatherly care the Somascan missionaries have given to the parishes of Moorebank and Holsworthy.”
The $100,000 will go towards much needed support in communities run by the Somascan Fathers in Mozambique, India and Sri Lanka.
This includes providing a car for the Suryodaya Boys Centre in Bangalore, India, to assist with supplies and provisions for the orphans in their care.
As Mozambique, the 4th poorest nation in the world, continues to collapse under the pressure of the pandemic and Sri Lanka entering into another food crisis, these funds will go a long way in providing care and dignity to the most vulnerable.
Somascan Movement of Australia is an Australian Catholic Alliance between Somascan Religious and Somascan Laity for the advancement of reforming the Christianity of youth, single adults, married couples and families back to the sanctity of apostolic times by providing care and catechesis.
For more information on Somascan Movement Australia email info@somascan.org.au