Peter Gates has been appointed as national director of Catholic Mission, the Pope’s mission agency in Australia, marking a new chapter in the organisation’s leadership.
Peter has served for more than three decades within the organisation, most recently as the deputy national director. He replaces Fr Brian Lucas who is stepping down after more than a decade in the role.
“Peter has served conscientiously and with great loyalty under five national directors over 35 years. He brings a wealth of experience to every aspect of Catholic Mission’s work, and a particular sensitivity for synodal governance,” said Fr Brian.
"Peter played a significant role in the organisational dimension of the Plenary Council. Catholic Mission is involved not only in fundraising for the missionary Churches through the Pontifical Mission Societies, but in forming missionary disciples here at home."
Catholic Mission is an international organisation that partners with communities, helping them to flourish by supporting grassroots projects, including healthcare, education, and spiritual care. As the Pope’s international mission agency, it responds to the call to love God and to love their neighbour by forming individuals and communities as missionary disciples of Jesus who share their faith in action and through prayer.
Peter said he was looking forward to serving in partnership with dioceses, parishes, schools and supporters across the country.
“The mission of the Church invites all of us to share faith, hope and solidarity with communities around the world," he said.
"I am honoured to lead Catholic Mission in strengthening that connection between the Church in Australia and the global mission of Christ, faith in action across every corner of the globe.”