DIOCESE OF ARMIDALE
MEMBER OF THE AUSTRALASIAN CATHOLIC PRESS ASSOCIATION
ISSN 1446-0041
A Tail of Compassion
VEENA AND THE POWER OF THERAPY DOGS IN MINISTRY
GOLDEN JUBILEE 3 1 4 5 6 7 8
VEENA - A TAIL OF COMPASSION
REST IN PEACE BISHOP MANNING
FR JOHN CURRAN
ARMIDALE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
REBRAND LAUNCH
AROUND THE DIOCESE
CLERGY ASSEMBLY
SAVE THE DATECATHEDRAL REOPENING
Many parishioners in Armidale, Guyra, Walgett, and Tamworth fondly remember “Cracker,” Father Anthony Koppman’s first companion dog. Cracker, a gentle male Labrador, was more than just a pet; he was a pastoral companion, journeying with Father Anthony across the Diocese in the back of his four-wheel drive Pajero. Together, they traveled long distances between Lightning Ridge, Armidale, and many other towns, where Cracker became a familiar, tail-wagging friend. Whether at churches, police stations, coffee shops, or even the occasional butcher shop where he was rewarded with extra-large bones, Cracker’s presence was always greeted with smiles. For eight years, Cracker provided comfort and care to people of all ages, offering a calm and friendly presence during difficult times. Unfortunately, on New Year’s Eve 2020, at the age of 14, Cracker’s health began to fail. He was laid to rest in Guyra, where his journey with Father Anthony had started, bringing to a close a chapter of faithful companionship.
Therapy dogs like Cracker are invaluable, particularly in police chaplaincy work, where their calming influence helps during routine visits or challenging incidents.
a tail of compassion
VEENA AND THE POWER OF THERAPY DOGS IN MINISTRY
father anthony koppman
1/... The Catholic Church across Australia is deeply involved in ministries, including police chaplaincy, where priests offer hope and comfort to officers and their families in difficult circumstances. Therapy dogs add an extra layer of support in this ministry, helping to build connections and ease tensions.
After Cracker’s passing, Father Anthony knew that the work of pastoral care needed a new companion. He applied to the Police Dog Squad, hoping to find a suitable replacement. While he was offered a German Shepherd, Father Anthony felt it wasn’t the image he needed for his ministry. Wanting a dog that could encourage people to approach him, he instead turned to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, applying for a dog that hadn’t completed its guide dog training. The waiting list for these dogs was long, typically two years, as nursing homes, schools, and other institutions also sought their calming presence.
To Father Anthony’s surprise, after just six months, he received a call that the Guide Dogs program might have the perfect match. Following a Guide Dogs handling course, Father Anthony met Veena, a loving and gentle therapy dog who has since transformed his chaplaincy ministry.
Veena has become a vital part of the Diocese’s work, offering her calming presence to clergy, parishioners, police officers, and even local shopkeepers. Like her predecessor Cracker, Veena is a frequent visitor to churches and police stations, often befriending the local butcher. However, while Cracker may have preferred a large bone, Veena has her own favorite treat—a fresh, juicy carrot, which guarantees you a lifelong friend in her.
The impact of therapy dogs like Veena goes beyond mere companionship. They offer comfort and support in ways that words often cannot. As Father Anthony’s ministry has shown, sometimes the simplest forms of care—a wagging tail, a calm demeanor—can be the most effective in reaching people, especially in today’s complex world. Catholic ministry continues to evolve, but the fundamental acts of compassion and care, embodied by companions like Veena, remain timeless.
Through Veena’s work, it’s clear that even in the most challenging of ministries, a dog’s loving presence can make all the difference. Veena now resides with Father Anthony at the Cathedral Parish, where she is adored by the Chancery staff she visits regularly.
Rest in peace Bishop Manning
BISHOP KEVIN MANNING
2nd november 1933 - 15th july 2024
Bishop Kevin Manning, the second Bishop of Parramatta and former Bishop of the Armidale Diocese (1991-1997), died peacefully on 15 July 2024 in Bathurst, NSW, at the age of 90.
Born on 2 November 1933 in Coolah, NSW, Bishop Manning was ordained to the priesthood in Rome in 1961. He served as a priest in the Diocese of Bathurst before becoming Assistant and later Secretary to
Fr john Curran’s golden Jubilee
50 YEARS OF DEDICATED PRIESTHOOD
SATURDAY 24TH AUGUST
On Saturday, 24th August, members of the local parish and school community gathered at St Michael’s Church, Manilla, to celebrate Father Curran’s Golden Jubilee. It was a joyful occasion marking 50 years of his dedicated priesthood and service to the Diocese of Armidale.
Father Curran was ordained on 29th August 1974 and has faithfully served the Diocese since that time. In recognition of his outstanding commitment to the Catholic parishes, Father Curran was honoured with a Papal Blessing, a testament to his tireless devotion and leadership.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Father Curran on this remarkable milestone. The Diocese of Armidale is truly blessed to have him as part of our clergy, and we are grateful for his years of service and spiritual guidance.
In addition, St Michael’s School, Manilla, and St Joseph’s School, Barraba, held special celebrations in his honour. The children presented Father Curran with special gifts and hand-drawn portraits, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the festivities.
armidale catholic schools
NEW BRAND LAUNCH
MONDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER
On Monday morning, Armidale Catholic Schools unveiled their new brand in a special launch event. Attendees included staff from Armidale Catholic Schools, Centacare, ADIG and the Chancery Office, as well as staff and principals from surrounding areas.
The Director of Schools, Regina Menz, alongside Communications & Marketing Coordinator, Tahnee Denton, presented the new brand and website to the community both in person at the Armidale Catholic Schools Office and via Zoom.
Tahnee Denton shared the story behind the rebrand, explaining its thoughtful design: “The logo incorporates a cross, symbolising our Catholic faith and commitment to Jesus Christ, along with a curved path representing our shared journey toward a hope-filled future. The 25 dots along the path signify the 25 sites within our Diocese – 24 schools and the Armidale Catholic Schools Office – across the New England and North West regions of NSW. The colour palette and shapes are inspired by Richard Campbell’s commissioned Diocesan Aboriginal artwork, reflecting the land on which our schools and parishes stand. The golds and oranges represent our hills, slopes, and plains, while the blues symbolise our rivers. The blue within the cross further emphasises our Catholic identity and devotion to Mary.”
The team behind the rebranding effort was recognised for their hard work and dedication. Special thanks were extended to Tahnee Denton
for leading the project, including designing the brand and overseeing the website production; Jed Trow and the IT team; Carmel Heagney and the administration team; and the entire office staff for their enthusiasm and support. A notable mention was given to Bronte McCann for her tireless work in creating internal sites and templates for staff use.
The event concluded with a morning tea, featuring delicious branded cupcakes from The Daily Cupcake Co.
The community is encouraged to keep an eye out for the rollout of the new brand across all publications, communication tools, and social media platforms in the coming weeks.
For a sneak peek, visit the new website at www.arm.catholic.edu.au.
L-R: David Smith, Josie Hofman, Regina Menz, Monsignor Wilkes, Tahnee Denton, Phillip Gibney & Chris Sheppeard
AROUND THE DIOCESE
MUSIC TO OUR EARS
our beautiful Samoan & Filipino choir’s
You may have noticed that recent Masses have been filled with the joyful and uplifting sounds of beautiful voices, as members of our Samoan and Filipino communities graciously offer their talents as part of the choir at various services in the Cathedral Parish.
It is truly a blessing to witness the vibrant diversity within our multicultural parish, as each community adds its unique touch to our celebrations. The rich harmonies and heartfelt songs bring a new depth to our worship, reminding us of the unity we share in faith.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Samoan and Filipino choirs for sharing the gift of their voices with us. Your contributions have brought so much beauty and joy to our liturgies, and we sincerely hope to hear your inspiring music at future Masses.
HEART OF PEACE KITCHEN
ADIG SUPPORTING HOPE IN OUR COMMUNITIES
As part of ADIG’s social outreach, they are proud to be partners with and support Heart of Peace (HOPe), a grassroots charity started in St Edward’s parish in South Tamworth.
In the last 12 months HOPe Tamworth has served over 3,900 meals to those in need. In the last few weeks HOPe has successfully launched HOPe Kitchen in the Moree Parish—it is still early days for HOPe Moree but there are so far 6 volunteers cooking and serving meals to their local community.
HOPe has also partnered with the NSW Rural Fire Service to provide meals to volunteers and communities who are affected by natural disasters.
In recent weeks HOPe has also been called upon to provide food to families in distress. Just over the past 4 weeks they have provided 26 frozen meals to families in great need.
Your continued support of the ADIG allows us to partner with great people and charities such as HOPe. We hope you can join us and make a difference.
Fathers Vic Ignacio & Paul Anthony Aguilar with Volunteers in Moree
Members of the Samoan Choir with Father Damien Locke
Members of the FilipinoChoir with Father Damien Locke
clergy assembly
september 3rd & 4th
On September 3rd and 4th, the Clergy Assembly took place in Armidale, bringing together clergy from across the Diocese for a two-day event. The keynote speaker was Father David Ranson, Vicar General of the Diocese of Broken Bay.
The first day featured a session led by Fr. Ranson on the Synod on Synodality, which concluded with a special Mass at the OLA Chapel.
* Send Fr Damien an email to join the pilgrimage for the Jubilee Year 2025 in Rome
On the second day, Fr. Ranson delivered a talk on “Integrity in our Common Mission,” followed by a presentation from Lawrence Gigliotti of Catholic Missions, who shared his experiences in Cambodia.
The Diocesan Finance Team also provided valuable guidance and support to the clergy regarding parish finances.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR A DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE
Pilgrimage to Rome is an integral part of the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year to be celebrated across 2025.
The Diocese of Armidale is exploring the opportunity of organising a pilgrimage and seeks expressions of interest at this time for the Pilgrims worldwide journey to Rome during the Jubilee Year.
* FrDLocke@armidale.catholic.org.au
* Check out the website for more information at iubilaeum2025.va/en.html
The pilgrimage is a profound spiritual experience, allowing participants to reflect on their lives, seek forgiveness, and strengthen their faith. More information on the Jubilee Year 2025 can be found at iubilaeum2025.va/en.html
To express an interest in joining the pilgrimage please email Fr Damien Locke at FrDLocke@armidale.catholic.org.au.
L-R - Fr Ross O’Brien, Fr Samson Koyipurath, Fr Sabu Pulimalayil, Fr Saji Kappikuzhi, Fr Antony Vattakkunnel, Fr John Curran, Fr Anthony Koppman, Fr Juvi Coronel, Monsignor Edward Wilkes, Fr James Poovathinkal, Fr David Ranson, Fr Antony Deleep, Fr Thaddeus Ike, Fr Paul Chandler, Fr Damien Locke, Fr Paul McCabe, Fr Chris Onuekwusi, Fr Roel Llave, Fr Abmar Dumayag, Fr Kingsley Etoh, Fr Vic Ignacio.
L-R - Fr John Curran, Fr Sabu Pulimalayil, Fr Vic Ignacio
The Clergy in Mid Morning Prayer
SAVE THE DATE
- SUNDAY 8 DECEMBER 2024A Christmas Concert by Fiori Musicali (ticketed) 2pm | Our Lady of the Angels Chapel
- THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2024(105th anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral) ‘Soft Opening’: Mass for Clergy and the Faithful 11am | Saints Mary & Joseph Cathedral
- SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2024Reopening of the Cathedral Mass & Celebratory Carnival 10am | Saints Mary & Joseph Cathedral
- MONDAY 16 DECEMBER 2024Christmas Lessons & Carols 7.30pm | Our Lady of the Angels Chapel
- WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER 2024Carols in the Cathedral 6pm | Saints Mary & Joseph Cathedral
- SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER 2024 (TBC)Organ Recital (ticketed) 4pm | Saints Mary & Joseph Cathedral
- SUNDAY 29 DECEMBER 2024Opening Mass for Jubilee Year 2025 10am | Saints Mary & Joseph Cathedral
