Perth Auxiliary Bishop-elect Nelson Po has a simple and pastoral vision for the kind of bishop he hopes to be after his episcopal ordination. Source: The Record.
“A good shepherd is one who listens,” he said. “That’s the trademark I hope to bring to this ministry: listening to people, journeying with them, and caring for them.”
The Applecross parish priest was announced as the new auxiliary bishop of Perth by the Holy See on Monday.
The appointment was welcomed by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, who described Bishop-elect Po as “a new and dynamic shepherd” whose gifts will be a blessing to clergy, religious and laity alike.
Before entering priestly formation, Bishop-elect Po, 57, completed a degree in industrial and management engineering and worked in his field for several years – an experience he says continues to shape his pastoral ministry.
“That background helped me a lot, particularly in managing parish life and handling complex situations,” he said. “It fits in well with being a parish priest.”
A defining feature of Bishop-elect Po’s ministry has been his deep commitment to the Church’s synodal journey.
He has contributed to the Archdiocese of Perth’s Plenary Council Reference Group, the Perth Diocesan Assembly Reference Group, and, most recently, participated in the Jubilee for Synodal Teams and Participatory Bodies in Rome in October 2025.
Bishop-elect Po offered a message of encouragement to the faithful of Perth, acknowledging the challenges faced both within the Church and in the wider community.
“Let us not give up hope,” he said. “There are many issues – personal, communal, global – but our faith calls us to look to Jesus as our guide and our strength.”
Bishop-elect Po’s episcopal ordination will take place after the Easter Triduum, on a date yet to be confirmed.
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A shepherd who listens: Perth welcomes Bishop-elect Nelson Po (By Jamie O’Brien, The Record)
