Thursday, May 22, 2008

Parties and Prayers at Punchbowl!


Good times were had by all last night in the grand suburb of Punchbowl -- yes, that is the actual name! (but that is not nearly as crazy as Wagga Wagga or Woolloomooloo) Punchbowl is the home of all the international volunteers who every Wednesday host a cultural dinner and evening of prayer, which we attended last night.

There was quite a crowd beign that it was Italian night (cooked by Italians, of course). In addition to the first-time presence of the Basilians, the Nashville Dominicans were also first-time attendees -- adding the laughter and stories.

For many, it was the first time they had time to ask about the Basilians, so Morgan and I spent time talking about our founders, charism and general history. Many were quite curious about the shirt and cross we wear here (and which all like) and how Morgan and I could be so different and yet from the same community. We simply replied it is a question many have asked, and that the continued existence of the Basilian Way of Life, in general, is a testimony to the grace of the Holy Spirit!
Safe to say, both natives and foreigners alike, believe the Basilians should have a stronger presence in Sydney. We, of course, think that is a great idea!

As for the Australian Word of the Day: "Arcade", which is a shopping area, not a place where you play games. (consequently, I don't know what you call a place where you play games here). Arcades are everywhere and prove to be great places to find anything, like a last minute bottle of wine (which you find in Bottle Shops specifically). Speaking of which, most restaurants do not serve wine in Sydney, you purchase it at a Bottle Shop and bring it with you. And when you do go out to eat: there is NO tipping anywhere. It is included in the price, as is tax. So when they print a $15 lunch -- it really is $15! Amazing.

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