Fr Alejandro (Alex) de la Sotta SVD has been warmly welcomed as Parish Priest of St Bernadette’s Parish in the vibrant heart of Auckland, New Zealand, and is enjoying not only the diverse, multicultural community, but also the opportunity to get involved in the local Laudato Si’ Farm.
“My arrival at St Bernadette's Parish was a welcoming process more than a formal installation ceremony with the bishop,” he said.
“Coming from the East Coast Parish, I was received with open arms by this vibrant community.
“In the Auckland Diocese, the installation process as a parish priest involves a gradual integration into parish life, where active participation of the parishioners is crucial.”
Situated in the Mount Wellington area of Auckland city, Fr Alex said the parish is a flourishing community.
“Strategically situated in this ever-growing suburb, St Bernadette's Parish stands as a beacon of hope and faith amidst the bustling urban life of New Zealand,” he said.
“The establishment of this new parish demonstrates a renewed commitment to the local community. It offers an opportunity to expand our pastoral activities and extend the reach of the Catholic Church in Auckland.
“Situated in such a diverse and dynamic city as Auckland, St Bernadette's Parish becomes a meeting point and support for people of various backgrounds and cultures, thus fostering inclusivity and unity among our faithful.”
Fr Alex said the parish is of moderate size but is full of vitality, comprised of about 200 families.
“Our remarkable cultural diversity sets us apart, with most parishioners hailing from the Pacific Islands, especially Tonga and Samoa. This cultural diversity enriches our activities and celebrations, blending traditions and practices from different origins.”
With interculturality at the heart of the SVD charism, Fr Alex said the cultural diversity of the parish is enriching his ministry as a missionary priest.
“Multiculturalism has become a fundamental aspect of my service and ministry, providing various spiritual perspectives and religious experiences,” he said.
One of the other highlights of his ministry at St Bernadette’s is the opportunity to get involved with the Laudato Si’ Farm, a project inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical addressing integral ecology and care for creation.
“Led by committed community members, this farm promotes sustainable and socially responsible agricultural practices, putting Laudato Si’ principles into action,” he said.
“My involvement with the Laudato Si’ Farm has been primarily through advocacy and work on the farm.
“This project benefits the environment, strengthens community ties, and educates future generations about the importance of caring for our common home.”
Fr Alex said he also continues his work in chaplaincy for the Spanish-speaking community in Auckland.
“Through various activities, we foster integration and intercultural understanding among different ethnic groups, thus strengthening our sense of community and belonging.
“At St Bernadette's, we celebrate diversity and unity in equal measure. As we journey together on our spiritual path, we realise that our differences enrich and strengthen us as a community.
“Ultimately we are united by our faith and our shared desire to build a more inclusive, compassionate, and just world.”
PHOTOS
TOP RIGHT: Fr Alejandro de la Sotta SVD is pictured with parishioners during a multicultural celebration, along with SVD Vice-Provincial, Fr Albano Da Costa and Provincial, Fr Asaeli Rass who visited St Bernadette's Parish in Mount Wellington, Auckland, earlier this year.
MIDDLE LEFT: The parish's Laudato Si' Garden.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Inside St Bernadette's church.