Wagga Wagga priest Fr Peter Murphy says his appointment last week to be the new Bishop of Armidale came as a shock. Source: The Catholic Weekly.
“Well, I’m surprised and it’s a privilege,” the bishop-elect said.
The current parish administrator of St Michael’s Cathedral, Wagga Wagga, and vicar general of the diocese, Fr Murphy said he wished to be a missionary leader who helped to “support families and their future” in his new role as bishop.
“Today we’re living in a very, you might say, fragile time, many people are disorientated and disillusioned, so we need to reaffirm them in their faith,” he said.
“Bring the Gospel to them and help them in whatever possible way.”
Pope Francis appointed Fr Murphy to lead the northern New South Wales diocese on February 26.
He said he felt most grateful to the Pope for appointing him during a period of precarious health, and hoped Pope Francis would not lose hope he may recover from the illness which has seen him hospitalised since February 14.
He said he wished the Pope well, saying the parishes and the whole diocese was praying for the Holy Father.
“For him and his wellbeing, and his speedy recovery if it’s God’s will, we offer powerful prayer support at this difficult time.”
FULL STORY
“A privilege:” Reverend Dr Peter Murphy welcomes new role as bishop (By Tara Kennedy, The Catholic Weekly)
