Go forth and teach - Bishop Michael Kennedy
Bishop Michael Kennedy was installed as the ninth Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle in a liturgical reception at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Hamilton, on Friday 17 March.
On the Solemnity of St Patrick, more than 550 guests, including Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Balvo, Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, bishops from around Australia and representatives from every parish in the diocese gathered for the event.
Bishop Kennedy was greeted on his arrival for the ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral by Elders of the Awabakal nation and welcomed to country.
He was greeted at the main doors to Sacred Heart Cathedral by Fr John Lovell, Rector of the Cathedral, and presented with a crucifix to venerate. As part of the Rite of Installation, Archbishop Balvo read the Apostolic Letter of Appointment and Archbishop Fisher guided Bishop Michael to the cathedral.
Bishop Kennedy was installed as the ninth Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle and welcomed by representatives of the people of the diocese including parishioners, families and clergy and then, in front of the altar, by representatives of other Churches, faiths and civic authorities.
The Bishop’s motto is euntes docete, referencing Jesus’ final words to the apostles to “go forth and teach”.
The College of Consultors of the Diocese of Armidale met on Monday 20th March, 2023 and elected Monsignor Edward Wilkes as the Diocesan Administrator in accordance with Canons 416-430. The Diocesan Administrator leads the Diocese during the period until the ordination and installation of the 11th Bishop of Armidale.
Monsignor Wilkes was Vicar General prior to Bishop Kennedy’s translation. He is currently the Parish Priest of Saint Joseph’s Parish, Uralla and Parish Administrator of Saint Patrick’s Parish, Walcha. He will continue in these pastoral roles whilst undertaking the duties of Diocesan Administrator.