St Theresa's church at Monto had a weekend of celebrations on the weekend of the 31st May - 2nd June.

Sister Anne Baxter celebrated her Golden Jubilee of vowed life as a Marist Missionary Sister on Friday the 31st May.

As she renewed her vows taken 50 years ago, she was joined by (from L to R in photo) Sr Jennifer Clarke, Regional Superior of the smsm sisters, Sr Noreen Dunne resident at Tannum Sands, Sr Marie Lamerand, in community with Anne in Monto and at far right the jubilarian, Sr Anne Baxter.

Sr Anne's family and friends gathered from far and wide and joined with the people of St Theresa's community to celebrate with Mass presided over by Bishop Michael and concelebrated by Fr Thaddeus Lazar pp of the Valley cluster and Fr Kevin Redmond SM who travelled from Gladstone to represent another branch of the Marist family.

The celebration was followed by a wonderful BBQ with delicious "sides" to go with the local meat. Thanks to all the people who worked so hard to make the night a success.

On the same day after the jubilee mass, the people of Monto planted a leopard tree near the church to commemorate the coming of the sisters to the area.

 One parishioner said, “The sisters have put the heart back into our community". The tree was prepared by the community and was planted and blessed by Bishop Michael and Sisters Anne and Marie.

The weekend was "topped off" by a confirmation ceremony on Sunday night, 2nd June. After the confirmation the Bishop was invited to partake of a meal with Fr Thaddeus and the parishioners at a local Indian restaurant. A wonderful weekend of celebration in Monto!!  Cool weather but warm hearts.!!!!