Our History - Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay

One in Christ. One Community.

Since our establishment on 28 May 1986, the Diocese of Broken Bay has been a vibrant community of faith for four decades. Cardinal Edward Clancy installed Bishop Patrick Murphy as our inaugural Bishop, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic population in the region.

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we reflect on our journey from the mouth of the Hawkesbury River to the wider community. The name "Broken Bay" and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse remain central symbols of our mission, beaming the 'Lumen Christi' - the Light of Christ - for 40 years and beyond.

1876 - 1986

Early Parish Foundations

Long before the Diocese was formed, faith communities were thriving. The oldest parishes—Manly (founded 1876), Gosford (1888), and Pymble (1889)—covered most of the present Diocese until 1910. All but one of the current parishes were established before 1986.

Read about our Origins >>>

1986 - 1996

The Inaugural Bishop

Bishop Patrick Murphy led the newly created Diocese for its first decade. Corpus Christi, St Ives, was established as the first Cathedral. Bishop Murphy retired in 1996, leaving a well-established foundation for his successor.

Read Bishop Murphy's Bio >>>

1996 - 2013

Bishop David Walker

Bishop Walker brought a commitment to "grass roots" ownership and Australian spirituality. Under his leadership, the Diocese dedicated a new Cathedral at Our Lady of the Rosary, Waitara on 1 February 2008.

Explore his legacy >>>

2014 - 2018

Bishop Peter A Comensoli

Installed as the third Bishop, he focused on Youth, Families, and Vocations. During his time, formation began for nine new seminarians. In August 2018, he was appointed Archbishop of Melbourne.

Read about Bishop Peter >>>

2019 - Present

Bishop Anthony Randazzo

After a 15-month wait, the Diocese welcomed the news on 7 October 2019 that Pope Francis had appointed Most Rev Anthony Randazzo as the fourth Bishop of Broken Bay.

View current leadership >>>