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Largest reconfiguration of clergy in decades

2 December 2020

On the eve of the Feast of St Francis Xavier, Bishop Anthony Randazzo has announced a number of clergy appointments for the Diocese of Broken Bay, one of the most significant reconfigurations for the Diocese in decades.

The appointments involve 20 members of clergy, including two new men that will be welcomed into the Diocese, and apply to over a dozen parishes and their communities.

In a letter to the clergy of the Diocese, Bishop Anthony explained the appointments had come after a period of prayerful discernment and consultation.

“These changes have been occasioned by different factors, my appraisal of the pastoral needs of our Diocese at this time, and by the personal circumstances of our clergy themselves,” he said.

Bishop Anthony expressed his gratitude to the clergy involved.

“Everyone has shown remarkable openness and availability which is a sure sign of the strength and grace of our presbyterate.”

Fr David and friends 400Fr David Ranson, Vicar General of the Diocese and Parish Priest of Holy Name Wahroonga for ten years is one of the clergy affected. He has been appointed to the Parish of Chatswood.

“Whilst I’m sad to be leaving the wonderful community at Wahroonga, I look forward to the new opportunities at Chatswood and working with the people there,” said Fr David.

Bishop Anthony said he understood the announcement was being made at the end of a challenging year.

“We are approaching the end of a very demanding year and I thank all those involved for their readiness to accept their change of appointment at a such a time”.

“I also thank the various parish communities of our clergy who are accepting new appointments. Changes of Pastor are significant moments in the life of a parish community.”

Bishop Anthony said it was noteworthy the announcement was being made on the vigil of St Francis Xavier, the great founder and missionary who took the Good News of Jesus Christ to the far reaches of India, Southeast Asia, Japan and China.

“I entrust these changes to the care and intercession of St Francis Xavier, knowing they have been made with the same missionary impetus that characterised his life,” said Bishop Anthony.

Bishop Anthony thanked the members of clergy for their service in their previous appointments and invited the community of the Church of Broken Bay to join him in prayer at this time of significant transition.

For a list of the new appointments see here.