‘The boys’ thanked during Archbishop’s annual gathering for retired clergy

Gratitude for their service was the theme of this year’s annual Mass and luncheon for our retired clergy.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse was the chief celebrant for today’s Mass, concelebrated by his retired brother clergy in the chapel of the Archbishop’s house. 

During his homily, the Archbishop highlighted that, in many cases, their priestly ministries did not conclude at retirement but simply moved into a “new chapter”. 

Many of them, he said, remained conspicuous around the Archdiocese for the work they did. 

He was sincerely grateful for this, especially over the last 12 months.

Clergy Retirement Foundation manager Paul Monagle said the Archdiocese is responsible for caring and supporting 26 retired priests, including several in their nineties. 

Paul Monagle and Narelle Holt

Mr Monagle said although they were in retirement, the priests remained very willing to help out at parishes, especially during absences of the parish priest.

“It’s a wonderful pleasure and honour to journey with them,” he said about his role as manager.

Nurse Narelle Holt also similarly highlighted the honour it was to support the older priests. 

“These men had served their community for many, many years. [It’s important]… for me to give something back to them to help make their lives more meaningful.”

Referring to them as “my boys”, Ms Holt said her support for the priests extended to taking them on visits and appointments and assisting with nursing needs.

Eleven retired clergy, including Bishop Pat Power, concelebrated this year’s Mass and attended the lunch that followed. Other retired priests were unavailable due to commitments, ill health or the travel distance.

The Archdiocese’s Clergy Retirement Foundation supports and cares and helps provide accommodation, financial assistance and health care for our retired priests.

An annual Father’s Day Appeal is held each September for retired priests. Donations year-round are also welcome and can be made at:

https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/CatholicArchdioceseofCanberra/FathersDayAppeal.html