Diocesan News
Recently, current and former members of the DOBCEL Board and Catholic Education Ballarat staff gathered to celebrate and thank Bishop Paul Bird CSsR for his years of service as Bishop of Ballarat and his longstanding support of Catholic education across our Diocese.
As part of the evening, Bishop Paul was presented with a commemorative book featuring student artwork, photographs and written messages contributed by schools from across the Diocese. The collection reflected the deep appreciation held by our communities and captured the many connections Bishop Paul has built through his visits to schools over the past fourteen years.
We extend our sincere thanks to every school that contributed. Your thoughtful messages, creative artwork and reflections helped create a meaningful gift that honoured Bishop Paul’s commitment to students, staff and families across Catholic education.
Bishop Paul has shared a message of thanks for our school communities:
I am very grateful for your words of appreciation for my service as bishop and for your kind wishes for me in my retirement. I am planning to stay in the Ballarat Diocese and give whatever help I can with Masses in our various parishes. This will mean that I will have some continuing ministry, though at an easier pace and with more days to relax.
Thank you for your prayers for me. I pray likewise for you as staff and students and for all the families of your school community.
Peace be with you. God bless you always.”
DOBCEL Communications – CEB Newsletter 17/6/2026
https://ceob.schoolzineplus.com/newsletter/article/7920