Diocesan News
Mass to acknowledge the clergy who celebrate a Jubilee of Ordination in 2025 was held on Tuesday, October 29, 2025 at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ballarat at 5.00pm. Bishop Paul Bird CSsR was the Main Celebrant and those celebrating Jubilees were invited to concelebrate the Mass.
Proceedings began with an Acknowledgement of Country and are all were welcomed by Dr Peter Morris.
The music was led by Choir Conductor Roger Hillman and Organist for the Mass was Geoff Martin. Members of the choir were from the parishes of the greater Ballarat area. Mitch Leviston, as Cantor, lifted the Cathedral with his voice, guiding the congregation in song and prayer. The music chosen was fitting for the celebration, reflecting the joy of the occasion. The congregation joined wholeheartedly in the singing, adding to the spirit of unity and celebration.
2025 Jubilarians are:
- Fr Pat Flanagan – 65 years
- Bishop Paul Bird – 50 years
- Fr Eugene McKinnon – 50 years
- Fr Wally Tudor – 50 years
Joining the diocesan clergy jubilarians in con-celebrating the Mass were friends of Fr Eugene McKinnon, also celebrating their golden jubilees of ordination, Fr Michael Delaney (Archdiocese of Hobart) and Fr Michael Morley (Diocese of Sandhurst).
Bishop Paul offered the following words of welcome:
Today happens to be the feast of the apostles Simon and Jude. Together with the other apostles, Jesus sent them out to share the good news of God’s love. In various ways we’re called to continue that mission of the apostles. Jesus was with those first apostles in their ministry. May he be with us as we share the good news of God’s love with people today.
Anne Tudor proclaimed the First Reading and Allan McKinnon the Prayers of the Faithful. Fr Wally Tudor proclaimed the Gospel and offered the Homily. Friends of the Sisters of Nazareth bought forward the gifts.
At the end of Mass, Bishop Paul prayed a Blessing for the Jubilarians and all in attendance joined in song to share the blessing, “May God Bless You and Keep You.”
Following Mass, clergy gathered to share a meal and continued the celebrations.
We give thanks to those who celebrate a Jubilee this year and to all those who serve in our diocese.
Thank you to those who prepared the Cathedral for this Mass, Sacristan Beth Pennington, the musicians, choir members and to those who travelled to attend.
