Asia Pacific Hope Launch
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About
In the 1990s, Monsignor Brian Rayner began coordinating practical assistance for communities in Fiji, responding to the needs of the local Church and the people it serves.
What began as an initiative of faith and generosity grew into an extraordinary ministry. Through Monsignor Brian's years at St Catherine Labouré Parish in Gymea, and continuing following his retirement, at Mary Immaculate Parish in Sefton, countless volunteers, parishioners and benefactors have contributed their time, resources and financial support.
Together, they have helped send 315 shipping containers to Fiji, providing practical assistance to communities in need. The work has also extended to other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines and Timor-Leste.
Now, this remarkable story is entering a new chapter.
The organisation formerly known as the Asia Pacific Foundation is becoming Asia Pacific Hope, building on Monsignor Brian's legacy and establishing a stronger foundation for this important work to continue and grow in the years ahead.
You are warmly invited to celebrate with us
On Sunday 22 November 2026, we will gather for a special launch luncheon at Doltone House, Sylvania Waters, from 12 noon to 3 pm.
We are particularly honoured that Most Reverend Peter Loy Chong, Archbishop of Suva, Fiji, and a longstanding friend of Monsignor Brian, will join us for this occasion. Monsignor Brian will also be present as we celebrate the work he began and look towards its future.
This luncheon is an opportunity to:
Celebrate the extraordinary generosity and achievements of the past three decades.
Reconnect with Monsignor Brian, fellow volunteers, benefactors and friends.
Hear about the vision and future direction of Asia Pacific Hope.
Learn how you can be part of the next chapter of this important mission.
Enjoy a beautiful luncheon in the company of friends, old and new.
We extend a special invitation to the parish communities of Gymea and Sefton, to everyone who has supported the shipping container ministry over the years, and to friends and supporters from across the Archdiocese of Sydney and beyond.
Whether you have been involved for decades or are discovering this work for the first time, you are most welcome.
Please join us, invite your friends, or organise a table and help us mark this significant moment.
Together, we can honour a remarkable legacy and help ensure that the hope it has brought to so many people continues for generations to come.
We look forward to welcoming you to the launch of Asia Pacific Hope.
Event details
Date: Sunday 22 November 2026
Time: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Venue: Doltone House, Le Jardin, Sylvania Waters
Special Guest: Most Reverend Peter Loy Chong, Archbishop of Suva, Fiji