Santo Nino Foundation of Australia Inc.

The Santo Niño Foundation of Australia Inc. is a community-based organisation established to promote the devotion to Señor Santo Niño, the Holy Child Jesus, among Filipino Australians and the wider community. It emerged from the vibrant Filipino Catholic community in Victoria, particularly inspired by the celebrations and novena masses dedicated to Santo Niño in Cranbourne. The foundation aims to nurture faith, cultural heritage, and community spirit through its activities and outreach.

Mission and Vision

The foundation’s mission is to foster and promote the devotion to Santo Niño, encouraging spiritual growth and cultural awareness within the Filipino Australian community and beyond. Its vision is to inspire a strong, faith-filled community that honours the Holy Child and builds a lasting legacy, including the aspiration to establish a dedicated shrine for Señor Santo Niño in Australia.

Main Objectives

• Promote religious devotion through organising novena masses, prayer gatherings, and cultural celebrations such as Sinulog festivals.
• Support community cohesion by providing a platform for Filipino Australians to connect, share faith, and celebrate their heritage.
• Encourage charitable activities that assist those in need within the community.
• Preserve and share Filipino cultural traditions related to the Santo Niño devotion.
• Develop infrastructure such as a shrine or centre dedicated to the Holy Child to serve as a spiritual and cultural hub.

Benefiting Groups

The foundation primarily benefits the Filipino Australian community, especially those in Victoria, by providing spiritual support and cultural connection. It also welcomes the broader Australian community interested in Filipino culture and Catholic traditions, fostering intercultural understanding and participation.

Services and Activities

• Organising and supporting novena masses and religious celebrations dedicated to Santo Niño.
• Hosting cultural events such as the Sinulog dance and festival to celebrate Filipino heritage.
• Facilitating community gatherings and faith formation activities.
• Engaging in charitable outreach to assist vulnerable groups within and outside the Filipino community.
• Planning and advocating for the establishment of a Santo Niño shrine as a focal point for devotion and cultural identity.