VOLUME
30.
DIOCESE
OF
ISSUE
15
ARMIDALE
MEMBER OF THE AUSTRALASIAN CATHOLIC PRESS ASSOCIATION ISSN 1446-0041
C at h o l i c
VIEWPOIN JUL
-
SEPT
2024
A Tail of Compassion VEENA AND THE POWER OF THERAPY DOGS IN MINISTRY
CONTENTS 1 3 4 5 6 7 8
VEENA - A TAIL OF COMPASSION REST IN PEACE BISHOP MANNING Many parishioners in Armidale, Guyra, Walgett, and Tamworth fondly FR JOHN CURRAN GOLDEN JUBILEE ARMIDALE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS REBRAND LAUNCH AROUND THE DIOCESE CLERGY ASSEMBLY SAVE THE DATE CATHEDRAL REOPENING
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. ..../2