Thanksgiving Mass

Remembering, Honouring & Celebrating

The annual Thanksgiving Mass is a significant event in the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria's calendar. It takes place traditionally at St Francis Church in the CBD where the Society was established in March 1854 and the venue for its first meeting.

The Thanksgiving Mass is a special event that takes place early November, as part of the Remembrance Masses that happen across the state. The Thanksgiving Mass traditionally takes place at St Francis' Church in Melbourne's CBD and a live stream is provided for those who cannot attend.

This event is a significant one for all of members, volunteers and employees and we aim to ensure participation by family members and friends to all who are recognised in the service.

Our Thanksgiving Mass remembers, honours and celebrates the lives of those who passed away during the last 12 months.

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A candle of remembrance

On Tuesday, 11 November, St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria’s annual Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Peter A. Comensoli at St Francis’ Church in Melbourne. This cherished tradition, observed every second Tuesday of November since 1979, remains one of the most meaningful events in our Vincentian calendar.

More than 200 people gathered to honour and pray for members, volunteers, employees, donors and bequestors who have passed away over the past year.

The evening’s most moving moment came during the Procession of Light, where family, friends and colleagues carried 138 candles – each representing a loved one and placed them near the altar. Many took their candle home as a keepsake, a simple but powerful symbol of remembrance and hope.

The Mass was livestreamed to ensure that those unable to attend could still join in prayer and reflection, with several country conferences gathering to view the service together. You can rewatch the Mass here.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this special evening possible, including the staff and volunteers of St Francis’ Parish. Together, we continue this beautiful tradition of remembrance – celebrating lives lived in service, faith and love for others.

2025 THANKSGIVING MASS - LIVESTREAM
11 NOVEMBER 2025, 7.00PM

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2025 THANKSGIVING MASS - INVITATION
11 NOVEMBER 2025, 7.00PM