Cairns Diocese has a new bishop, with the ordination of Bishop Joe Caddy in a ceremony at St Monica’s Cathedral, Cairns, last night on the Feast of the Assumption.
Formerly of Melbourne, Archdiocese, Bishop Caddy succeeds long-term Cairns Bishop James Foley, who retired in 2022 after 30 years in the role.
The ordination ceremony attracted bishops and clergy from around Australia who gathered to pray for Bishop Caddy and the success of his mission in Far North Queensland.
Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge was the chief celebrant.
In addition to the 600 people packing St Monica’s Cathedral, the ceremony was livestreamed to hundreds of people gathered at 14 church and school sites around Far North Queensland, from Tully in the south to Waiben (Thursday Island) in the north.
A special feature of the service was the singing of The Magnificat, composed by Rev Christopher Willcock SJ for the occasion.
Bishop Caddy’s 88-year-old father, John, sang the solo part. He flew with Bishop Caddy’s mother and family from Melbourne to support his son.
Bishop Caddy said he was both humbled and excited by Pope Francis’ decision to appoint him to the role and by the messages of support he has received.
“I’ve dedicated my life as a priest to trying to help those in need, and to bringing the real presence of Jesus Christ to everyone who has wanted or needed his support and guidance,” Bishop Caddy said.
“My new role here in Far North Queensland brings me to one of the most beautiful parts of God’s creation, to do all I can to bring Christ’s message to those who live, visit and holiday here.
“The Catholic Church is a major provider of education and social services and support in the Diocese of Cairns, impacting the lives of thousands of people each week.
“I will make it a priority to get around the diocese as soon as I can, to meet not just Catholics or people attending our schools and support services, but all who are open to the Christian message of love of God and of each other, and who put this into practice.”
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New Bishop of Cairns Ordained (Cairns Diocese)
