Father Kevin Njoku has wrapped up more than eight years of service to the Scenic Rim community with a thanksgiving Mass and morning tea on January 4 at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, closing a chapter defined by connection, kindness and deep community engagement.
Father Kevin arrived in Scenic Rim in 2017 and said it was the warmth of the parish and wider Scenic Rim community that left the strongest impression.
“When I first arrived, many people asked me where I had come from and what my story was,” he said.
“At the time, I thought it meant I wasn’t fully accepted, but I later realised those questions were expressions of genuine interest, care and hospitality.”
Over time, Father Kevin said the town shaped him both personally and spiritually – through embracing local customs, building relationships through shared meals and conversations, and finding strength in the region’s quieter pace of life.
“Spiritually, the peaceful environment encouraged me to rely more deeply on God,” he said.
“It gave me space for prayer and reflection, which strengthened my faith and my awareness of God’s presence in everyday life.”
His ministry extended well beyond church walls, with Father Kevin forging strong relationships across community groups, sporting clubs and local institutions.
He said those connections were vital in building trust and unity.
“Working with people from different backgrounds showed me that meaningful contribution to the Church and community is possible regardless of formal membership,” he said.
He expressed particular gratitude to the Beaudesert Soccer and Tennis Club, the Scenic Rim Regional Council, and the Beaudesert RSL, which invited him to lead prayer services on ANZAC Day and participate in Australia Day and other community events.
Father Kevin said his belief that kindness matters more than church attendance guided his approach to parish life.
“It helped me see God in everyone,” he said.
“As well as to recognise the goodness in many people and to discover how deeply they support both me and the Church in many different ways.”
As he prepares to depart after 20 years in ministry, Father Kevin said the timing felt right.
“I feel ready for rest and reflection,” he said.
Fr Kevin will be succeeded by Fr Tomi Alexander Vattukulathil, who will take up the role of parish priest in 2026.
