Our History
The Vincentian Fathers belong to the Vincentian Congregation founded by Fr. Varkey Kattarah in 1904 at Thottakom in the state of Kerala, India.
The Vincentian Ministry for Evangelization is carried out primarily by the preaching of the word of God and to bring the Good News to the poor. Since 2008, the Vincentian Fathers have worked with the Archdiocese of Perth in providing pastoral care at St. Aloysius Parish (Shenton Park) and the Holy Family Parish (Maddington). They also provide chaplaincy care at several major hospitals in Perth.
setting
The retreat centre sits on a span of 27 acres of property in Karrakup. It is bordered by National Forest Reserves, alongside avenues of Eucalyptus trees and several nature trail walks. Situated close to the Wungong Reservoir, its tranquil and serene surroundings are most ideal for quiet contemplation and retreats.
Vincentian Ministry – Our Mission
The aims of the Vincentian Congregation are:
- Preaching the good news to the poor
- Caring for the poor and the afflicted
- Spiritual Renewal
- Healing and Deliverance
Our Beginnings
The Vincentian Retreat Centre at Karrakup, Perth, is a pastoral initiative of the Fathers of the Vincentian Congregation. It was officially inaugurated and blessed by the Most Rev. Timothy Costelloe, Archbishop of Perth on 29 July 2017. The construction of the Perth Vincentian Retreat Centre aims to provide accommodation for residential retreats for the growing need of individuals and families for spiritual healing and nourishment.
About Fr. Varghese Parackal VC
Fr. Varghese Parackal is currently assuming the role of Director, Vincentian Retreat Centre Karrakup, Perth and has spent much of his pastoral ministry in Australia, where he is based. Fr. Varghese is a gifted preacher who has ministered to his flock in Australia, South East Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Africa and has preached the Good News to the communities in these continents. Many have experienced the healing power of God and have also encountered life-changing conversion experiences through Fr. Varghese’s ministry of healing, as evident in the inspirational testimonies that are shared on this website.