As we enter Advent 2024, a time of waiting and preparation, we are reminded of the deep hope that sustains us, even through trials. As the 2024 Year of Prayer closes we look towards the upcoming 2025 Year of Jubilee, a time for forgiveness of sins, reconciliation, and conversion. A time to re-establish relationships with God and each other. The Year of Jubilee will focus on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” Pope Francis calls us to “fan the flame of hope that has been given us,” urging us to look to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and a far-sighted vision. In these uncertain times, these words resonate deeply, inviting us to renew our faith and hope in God’s promises.
For our Diocese, the reopening of the Cathedral after the storm’s devastation is a powerful symbol of renewal. The storm may have damaged our beautiful Cathedral, but it could not extinguish the spirit of resilience and faith within us. As we walk through the doors of this sacred space once again, we are reminded that hope, like the Cathedral, is built—brick by brick, prayer by prayer with the assistanced of God’s grace.
This Advent, let us reflect on our own pilgrimages of hope. As we take time to contemplate on the unexpected nature of Jesus’ humble birth and await his return again for his people, may we open our hearts to God’s transformative grace, trusting that the future holds new strength and abundant blessings.
Wishing you all a very happy and holy Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Monsignor Ted Wilkes Diocesan Administrator
welcome home
THURSDAY 12TH DECEMBER SOFT OPENING
The soft reopening of Sts Mary & Joseph’s Cathedral in Armidale on Thursday 12th December was a joyous occasion, marked by a special Mass celebrating the completion of extensive repairs following storm damage which occured in 2021. The restoration has taken 12 months to complete, with all scaffolding now fully removed, revealing the Cathedral’s refreshed grandeur. Inside, thorough cleaning and restoration work has brought the space back to its former beauty.
The Mass was a significant moment for the Diocese and for the parish of Armidale, with clergy from across the Diocese coming together to concelebrate. This gathering included not only the faithful of Armidale but also parishioners from around the Diocese and members of various Catholic agencies and boards, all present to witness and celebrate the resilience of the community, the skilled work of the tradesmen and the preservation of our beloved Cathedral. The atmosphere was one of gratitude to be back in this significant place of worship and renewal, as the parish reflected on the efforts and difficulties experienced over the last year during the closure and to give thanks for the beautiful restoration now unveiled.
Following the Mass, a light lunch was provided, offering an opportunity for fellowship and reflection. Clergy and parishioners mingled, sharing stories of the Cathedral’s significance in their lives and celebrating its restoration.
This event marked the end of a challenging chapter for the Parish, with the Cathedral now standing as a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Church and its ability to rebuild, both physically and spiritually, after adversity. The completion of these much-needed repairs ensures that Saints Mary & Joseph’s Cathedral will continue to be a place of worship, reflection, and community for generations of Catholics to come.
cathedral re-opening celebrations
SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER PARISH REOPENING MASS AND CARNIVAL
A Mass on Sunday 15th December celebrating the Grand reopening of Saints Mary & Joseph’s Cathedral in Armidale marked a moment of great joy and thanksgiving after being closed for a year whilst storm damage repairs were completed. Following the Mass, the Armidale parish hosted a lively Carnival in the Cathedral grounds, inviting everyone to join the celebration. The event featured food, entertainment, tours of the restored Cathedral along with displays of historical records and items of significance, offering a chance for both reflection and enjoyment. The day was a beautiful expression of community spirit and renewed faith.
clergy retreat
SAINT ALBERT’S COLLEGE ARMIDALE
17th - 22nd November, 2024
Our Diocesan clergy attended their annual Clergy Retreat at Saint Albert’s College, Armidale from Sunday 17th - Friday 22nd November.
Retreat Master for the 2024 Retreat was Father Anthony Walsh OP a Dominican Friar from Our Lady of Graces Parish Carina in Brisbane. Fr Anthony has worked in various capacities in the Province: Provincial, Novice and Student Master, Councillor, Bursar and Chair of the Economic Council. He is a member of the Provincial Liturgical Commission and Co-Director of Catherine of Siena Institute, Australia.
During his time as Master of Students he introduced the Called and Gifted Workshop into
the formation program. As a parish priest he seeks to encourage the Catholic Laity to discern their gifts and live out their vocation as intentional disciples.
The annual Clergy Retreat is an invaluable experience that fosters both spiritual growth and fraternity among our clergy. The daily opportunities for Mass and communal prayer help strengthen their bond with God and with one another, deepening their sense of communion in the priestly vocation.
In addition to these shared moments of worship, the retreat provides ample time for personal prayer and reflection, allowing each participant to renew their spiritual life. The relaxed atmosphere during mealtimes also offers a chance to enjoy one another’s company and build supportive relationships.
Above Retreat Participants at Saint Albert’s College Armidale.
L-R Front row to back:
Fr Koppman, Fr Walsh OP, Fr Curran wearing the blue chasuble was the Principal Celebrant for Mass on Thursday of the Retreat, Fr OBrien
Fr Ike, Fr Tran, Fr Etoh
Fr Koyipurath, Fr Kappikuzhi
Fr O’Shea, Fr Antony
Monsignor Wilkes, Fr Onuekwusi, Fr McHugh
Fr Pulimalayil, Fr Locke, Fr Vattakkunnel
Below our Rogationist Fathers enjoying the sunshine and fraternity at the November Clergy Retreat
Above Father Anthony Walsh OP speaking to the Clergy at the Retreat
seminarians wrap up the year
SEMINARIANS ON PLACEMENT
Seminarian Allem Alba has been sharpening up on his driving skills whilst on pastoral placement at the Armidale Cathedral Parish with Fathers Damien Locke and Anthony Koppman
Seminarian Isaac Forson was installed as an Acolyte at St Mary’s Cathedral Sydney on Sunday 27th October by Emeritus Bishop Terry Brady. Isaac will be doing his Pastoral Placement at St Joseph’s Gunnedah with Fathers Abmar Dumayag and Antony Vattakkunnel
Seminarian Linh Dang has completed his first year at Good Shepherd Seminary Homebush. Ist Year students undertake a 30 day Ignatian Retreat at Mulgoa prior to returning to their Dioceses. Linh will head to St Francis Xavier’s Parish Moree for his Pastoral Placement with Fathers Vic Ignacio and Juvi Coronel
L-R: Father Sabu, Diocesan Vocations Director, Seminarian Linh Dang, Seminarian Allem Alba, Monsignor Ted, Diocesan Administrator, and Seminarian Isaac Forson
Fr Sabu and Monsignor Ted visited our Seminarians at Good Shepherd Seminary Homebush in November. They caught up with the Seminarians for lunch and met with the Rector and Formators of the Seminary during their day at Homebush.
AROUND THE DIOCESE
GUNNEDAH PARISH ANNUAL REFLECTION DAY
saturday 23rd november
St Joseph’s Parish Gunnedah welcomed Sr Helen Baguley rsm to present their annual reflection day on Saturday 23 November. Sr Helen chose Advent as the theme and took participants on a journey from…… In the Beginning…… God said, “That’s Good!” God saw that it is good!! Sister Helen said, “In our theological concentration on ‘Original Sin’ we have all but forgotten the truth and power of the ‘Original Blessing’ which belongs to us and all creation. We carry within us the likeness of the One from whom we have come! We are OF God.”
The participants contemplated anew the depth and breadth of God’s love for his creation and his yearning for a personal relationship with each one of us - His creation. The depth of love that manifested in the incarnation of his Son into our sinful world. The day was filled with vibrant discussion, quiet refection and time for socialising over lunch strenghtening the bonds of community and deepening their collective relationship with God.
DELUNGRA JOYFUL CELEBRATION
Sunday 1st december
The festive spirit of Christmas filled the air as parishioners gathered at the picturesque Lavender Farm for a joyous celebration. The event, held on 1st of December, followed after the Sunday Holy Mass, where the community came together to give thanks and mark the beginning of the holiday season. The Christmas party was a wonderful opportunity for the parish community to bond and create lasting memories and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and chatter as everyone enjoyed a delicious breakfast, refreshing drinks, and great company.
It was a wonderful way to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas and the Parish was grateful to Lavender Farm for hosting them. As the parishioners departed, they carried with them the joy and love of the Christmas season.
Front L-R Jacinta Stanley, Loreto Kennedy, Margaret Nott, Sr Helen Baguley rsm, Abda Kidd. Second row L-R Peter O’Sullivan, Margaret Martin, Dale Bailey, Marie Hobson, Fr Abmar Dumayag
L-R Terry Hagley, Peter O’Sullivan, Maureen Turner, Dale Bailey
AROUND THE DIOCESE
BINGARA PARISH CHRISTMAS MORNING TEA
sunday 15th december
On Gaudete Sunday, the Bingara Parish held a Christmas Morning Tea, a joyful celebration of the season, following the uplifting Mass. Set in the picturesque church grounds, parishioners were invited to gather and share in the festive spirit. With the sun shining and the atmosphere filled with laughter, everyone enjoyed delicious homemade treats and drinks, while reflecting on the hope and joy of Advent. It’s a beautiful opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate the season, and connect with one another in the true spirit of Christmas.
Sunday 1st december
The Saint Nicholas Parish Christmas Party took place on Sunday, December 1st, and was a fantastic success with a great turnout. It provided a wonderful opportunity for parishioners of all ages to come together and enjoy each other’s company.
A dedicated group of volunteers worked hard to set up the hall and organize the food, while attendees brought along a “plate to share,” resulting in a delicious feast!
The true “spirit” of St. Nicholas was alive and well as people mixed, mingled, chatted, and laughed. Fr. Chris joined in the fun, handing out bags of lollies to the children! Throughout the day, we were treated to Christmas carols performed by our talented choir, and there were plenty of games for both adults and children to enjoy. In the egg and spoon race, Fr. Saji and Sr. Anna proved unbeatable, literally “sweeping the floor” with their competition!
ST NICHOLAS TAMWORTH PARISH CHRISTMAS PICNIC
2024 marks 140 years since attempted murder of bishop torreggiani
CHRISTMAS DAY 1884
Catholic Diocese Of Armidale
3/131 Barney Street Armidale NSW 2350
E. chancery@armidale.catholic.org.au P. 02 6771 8700
“Christmas Day in 1884 was one of the most melodramatic incidents in the history of Armidale. A mysterious figure, clad in cloak and brandishing a revolver and sword, attempted to murder the Catholic Bishop of Armidale, Bishop Elzear Torreggiani.
A local policeman was among the congregation and ran to assist and along with other members of the parish hurried the perpertrator outside.
“In the Cathedral there was, of course, a scene of great excitment, several women fainting and having to be removed from the building.
“Bishop Torreggiani behaved throughout the trying scene with the utmost coolness and presence of mind. As soon as order was restored, His Lordship proceeded calmly with the Mass, betraying not the slightest agitation, and by his conduct preventing a turbulent scene.
“Upon removing his vestments at the conclusion of the Mass, the Bishop discovered that a bullet had passed through his Chasuble at a point rather below the centre, showing that the bullet must have passed within an inch of his body.
“The Bishop kept the bullet, carrying it in his usually empty purse and called it ‘his little Christmas present’.”
The above are excerpts from an article written in 1984 by PJ O’Haire published in The Armidale Express when marking a centenary since the event.
See photo below of the actual Chasuble Bishop Torreggiani wore which shows the bullet hole. This chasuble is stored in the Diocesan archives.
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