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Joy, colour and generosity brought the Bazaar to life

The 2025 Jesuit Mission Bazaar was a powerful expression of the Ignatian spirit of Magis — giving greater love and service to others. Jesuit Mission Australia is grateful to the thousands of families, students, parishioners, alumni and change-makers who filled the grounds of Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview with joy, colour and community spirit on Saturday 13 September.

For more than 70 years, the Bazaar has embodied the Ignatian call to be “men and women for others,” transforming a fun day out into a force for global good. Every cake baked, ride enjoyed, book purchased, raffle entry and product sold helps uplift communities living on the margins around the world.

Helen Forde, CEO of Jesuit Mission Australia, praised the extraordinary effort of hundreds of faithful volunteers behind the event:

“The crowds came, the sun shone, and thousands of visitors enjoyed themselves thanks to you. Every stall, every roster, every logistical puzzle you solved turned into laughter, smiles and generosity on the day. You carried the tradition forward with energy and joy, keeping this 70-plus-year-old event thriving.”

Parents’ Stall – Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview Boarders
Volunteers from the St Aloysius’ College Korean BBQ at the Bazaar in 2025.

Fr Tom Renshaw SJ, Rector of Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview, at the evening mass, celebrating the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, reflected on the deeper mission:

“The work Jesuit Mission does, including the support of many volunteers at the Bazaar, is one of the ways in which goodness flows. People who find themselves on the margins of society, those who are excluded, who have their own experience of a metaphorical cross, we stand with you. We want to help transform your life through the benefits of what we’ve received. We can embrace the Cross, knowing that it is transformed by the gift of the resurrection of Jesus.”

Fr Tom Renshaw SJ, Rector of Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview, celebrating the Eucharist at the Bazaar’s closing mass
A special thank you to Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview for hosting the Bazaar since 1952!

Michelle Abbey, a long-time supporter, parent at Riverview and member of the organising committee, summed up the spirit of the day:
“The 2025 Bazaar was once again a shining example of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose, heart, and a deep commitment to others. The real magic came from the collective effort of everyone involved. It was truly the spirit of Magis in motion.”

Jesuit Mission Australia warmly thanks the entire community for making the 2025 Bazaar a joyful success in giving greater love and service to others.

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