CFCA Vic Hits Broadway by Eva Olivar

CFCA Victoria celebrated their Christmas Party on 6 December 2025, at St. Catherine of Siena, Melton West. The celebration commenced with a holy mass led by our spiritual director, Father Philip Gambin to honor the Chief Guest at our Christmas party, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Father Philip reminded us that Christmas is the key celebration in the Christian calendar because God took on our humanity and we received Him during our baptism. Fr Gambin offered questions for reflections such as:

• As a community for Christ, in what ways have we embodied His teachings?

• In what ways have we shown love to others?

• In what ways have we supported one another?

• In what ways have we expressed the wonderful community that we share?

• Have we led others to Christ?

These questions challenge us to think of our tasks to make it the best we possibly can with what we have. To ensure that individuals without anyone to love or hold them are embraced within our Christian community of love. To serve as symbols of hope and happiness, while fostering a culture that makes everyone feel valued and appreciated.

Fr. Gambin emphasized that we are a missionary Church. We are sent by the Lord to spread His word and do His work. We need to carry on our mission as Couples for Christ Australia.

Brother Jun San Jose, our Area Head, in his opening remarks mentioned that Jesus is the reason for the season. He quoted the bible passage ‘The harvest is great, but the workers are few" (Matthew 9:37) which is much relevant with the current situation of the community, urging us to pray for unity and more helpers for God's work which is evangelization.

As part of the traditions in celebrating the anticipation of the Lord’s coming, we gathered for the festive celebration with food and lots of merriment and beautiful presentation and costumes from each chapter, centered around the theme ‘Broadway’.

West 1 showcased Mama Mia and won the Most Entertaining award. West 2 delivered the Lion King and received the Best in Vocals award, The North Chapter for Michael Jackson the Movie won Best in Choreography, The Family Ministry - Gatsby was chosen as the Crowd’s Most Favorite, and the Southwest took home the award for Best in Overall Performance. Additionally, brother McKuen Landicho was awarded Best Actor, while sister Gerlie Lim received the title of Best Actress. Noel Olivar was also honored with the Josh Gold award for males, while Hannah secured the award for females.

Every group performed exceptionally well. The elders also graced the event by wearing their ‘Wicked’ outfits that were beautiful.

During the intermissions, children's games took place, featuring LIA raffles with prizes that were abundant and enjoyed by many. The celebration was indeed full of joy, laughter and fun with bagful hope and anticipation for another exciting year ahead.

Team West 1 deserves commendation for outpouring their concerted effort in organizing the memorable Christmas party for the community and to everyone who participated in or behind the scenes. Our emcees from West 1, bros Garry, Marvin and Marlon hosted the program with vibrancy and life. Let’s pray that our Christmas be filled with joy, hope and peace, and may God’s richest blessings be upon us and our family.