Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral in the Diocese of Broken Bay was overflowing with parishioners, friends, family, and Diocesan colleagues for Archbishop Anthony Randazzo’s final Mass in the Cathedral before leaving to take up his new role in the Holy See this week.
The fourth Bishop of the Diocese, the Most Rev Anthony Randazzo was appointed by Pope Leo XIV as Prefect of the Dicastery for Legislative Texts on 25 March this year. In conjunction with this appointment to the Roman Curia, he was also given the personal title of Archbishop.
However for those gathered at the Cathedral last Sunday he was their pastor and faithful shepherd.
During his homily, Archbishop Anthony encouraged everyone to listen carefully to the words of Jesus Christ when he said; “Do not be afraid”.
“In the Gospel, Jesus repeats those words with remarkable insistence: ‘Do not be afraid’. (Matthew 10:26) He knows the fears that can trouble the human heart. He knows that every generation of believers will face moments of uncertainty, opposition, discouragement, and even the temptation to remain silent about their faith. Yet Jesus’ command is clear: do not be afraid,” the Archbishop said.
Although he said he would soon be on a plane to Rome, Archbishop Anthony still offered a particular invitation and challenge to the diocesan family.
“Let us become a Church that prays more intentionally for the gifts necessary for our mission. Let our clergy pray daily for wisdom, strength, and pastoral charity. Let our parish communities pray for a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Let families pray together for the courage to live the Gospel. Let our young people pray for the generosity to follow wherever Christ may call them. The future of the Church will not be secured by human plans alone. It will be secured by faithful disciples who trust that the Lord is at their side, who believe in the abundance of His grace, and who are willing to declare their faith before the world.”
Following the Mass the Archbishop thanked the Diocese for their prayers and support over the past six years. It was an emotional moment for the Archbishop and the congregation. Tears gave way to extended applause before everyone gathered for morning tea.
Older parishioners, families and children expressed their sadness to see their pastor leave the Diocese but wished him well in his new ministry, knowing they will always be remembered in his prayers.
Since his appointment to the Curia, Archbishop Anthony has been the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese. At the end of the week the College of Consultors in the Diocese will elect a Diocesan Administrator until the Pope appoints a new bishop.
