Category Archives: Uncategorized

Bishops to lead a new youth focus for universal Church

The Synod of Bishops on Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment will see Church leaders share wisdom and learn from the world’s youth, according to Australia’s bishop delegates.

Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP and Melbourne Auxiliary Bishop Mark Edwards OMI have arrived in Rome for the gathering of prelates, which runs from October 3 to 28. They have been joined by Melbourne Archbishop Peter A. Comensoli, who was personally selected by Pope Francis to attend. Continue reading

Bishop Charles Gauci ordained fifth Bishop of Darwin

In a ceremony rich with Catholic tradition and Aboriginal culture, the Diocese of Darwin on Wednesday night welcomed Bishop Charles Gauci as its new shepherd.

In June, Pope Francis announced that Fr Charles Gauci, then-administrator of St Francis Xavier Cathedral in Adelaide, would succeed Bishop Eugene Hurley, who had served in Darwin for the past 11 years. Continue reading

Australia’s multiculturalism a “gift to be preserved”

Bishop Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot

The leader of a Vatican delegation that has just completed a visit to Australia was delighted by the efforts of local Church organisations to enhance interfaith dialogue, education and understanding.

Spanish Bishop Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, said he was very happy with what he had seen in Australia and could reconfirm the existing spirit of multiculturalism. Continue reading

New Darwin Bishop feels hope, peace, excitement — and some trepidation

Fr Charles Gauci, who will be ordained Bishop of Darwin on September 26

Excitement, hope-filled anticipation, a sense of peace and some trepidation – these are just a few of the many emotions being felt by the incoming Bishop of Darwin on the eve of his ordination.

Speaking about his priorities, goals and concerns for his new flock, Fr Charles Gauci said he intended to focus his time on listening to the people, learning from them and working out how best to serve them. Continue reading

Church takes major steps to safeguard young and vulnerable

Fr Hans Zollner SJ

The Catholic Church in Australia is among the top five countries worldwide in adopting processes to safeguard children and vulnerable people, according to a key Vatican advisor.

Fr Hans Zollner SJ, one of the leading Church experts in safeguarding minors and on areas concerning sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic Church and beyond, said Australia had made great strides forward and had much to teach the wider Church. Continue reading

Australia’s youth will have a voice at the Vatican Office for Youth

The hopes and concerns of young Australian Catholics were given a voice at an Australian Catholic Youth Council workshop in Sydney yesterday.

In preparation for the upcoming General Synod of Bishops on Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment, Australia’s Synod delegates Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP and Melbourne Auxiliary Bishop Mark Edwards OMI listened to attendees and discussed a wide range of issues. Continue reading