St Charbel’s Monastery – Sydney, Australia in Punchbowl came alive with faith, culture and community spirit on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, as hundreds gathered for a special evening marking the official opening of celebrations at the monastery.
The occasion was led by Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay, together with Father Superior Assad Lahoud, Father Anthony Azzi, Father Michael and members of the monastic community.
The celebration brought together hundreds of parishioners, families, community leaders and distinguished guests, reflecting the strong place St Charbel’s Monastery holds within Sydney’s Lebanese and wider multicultural community.
Among those attending were Jihad Dib MP, Zhi Soon MP, Ash Ambihaipahar MP, Mark Coure MP, Kylie Wilkinson MP, David Saliba MP, along with Deputy Mayor Rachelle Harika – Canterbury Bankstown Council, Clr Wendy Lindsay, Clr George Zakhia, Clr Jenn Walther and Clr Hady Saleh of the City of Canterbury-Bankstown and Dr Bahia Betty Abou Hamad.
The World Observer Media, represented by its Editor-in-Chief, Dr Mamdouh Sukkarieh, attended and covered the event as part of its ongoing media, community and cultural mission, highlighting an occasion that brought together faith, heritage and the wider Australian community.
Following the liturgy, guests and dignitaries joined Bishop Tarabay, Father Superior Assad Lahoud and the monks for dinner in a warm atmosphere of fellowship, hospitality and gratitude.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the presentation of the story of St Charbel, spectacularly projected as a film across the exterior wall of the church. The impressive visual display captivated those gathered and offered a powerful portrayal of the life, faith and spiritual legacy of St Charbel.
The evening continued with food, coffee and conversations among families, friends and community members, creating a joyful atmosphere that reflected the unity and devotion of the St Charbel community.
The success of the celebration was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Father Superior Assad Lahoud, Father Anthony Azzi, Father Michael, the monastic community, volunteers and the organising committee, with special acknowledgement to Mr Barry Barakat and Mr Charlie Taouk for their contribution to organising the event.
The opening night also marked the beginning of several days of festivities at St Charbel’s Monastery, featuring a spectacular Light Show, rides, food trucks and vibrant markets, offering families and visitors an opportunity to enjoy the celebrations together.
The Light Show will continue from 7–10 October, following the 6:00 pm Mass and continuing into the evening.
The celebration promises to transform St Charbel’s Monastery and the heart of Punchbowl into a vibrant gathering place, bringing people together in a shared spirit of faith, culture, family and community.
#Ash Ambihaipahar MP
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