Bishop Michael Kennedy officially committed to his role as the Ninth Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle on St Patrick’s Day at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Hamilton in Newcastle.  The former Bishop of Armidale replaces Bishop William Wright who returned to God in November 2021. 

Over 550 people gathered at the Liturgical Reception to witness this significant holy event, including the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Balvo and Archbishop Anthony Fisher. Bishops from around Australia and representatives from every parish in the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese, gathered to celebrate the Ordination in Hamilton on Friday 17 March. 

Elders of the Awabakal nation greeted Bishop Kennedy on his arrival at the Cathedral and welcomed him to Country.

He was then met by Rector of the Cathedral, Fr John Lovell, who presented him with a crucifix to venerate.  As part of the Rite of Installation, Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Balvo, read the Papal Bull (Apostolic Letter of Appointment), and Archbishop Fisher guided Bishop Michael to the cathedra. Once formally seated in the cathedra, Bishop Michael was installed as the Ninth Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle and welcomed by representatives of the people of the Diocese, including parishioners, families and clergy.  

Then, in front of the altar, Bishop Kennedy was welcomed by representatives of other Churches, faiths and civic authorities. “When the Nuncio asked if I would accept Pope Francis’ appointment to be the new Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle, I did not hesitate to say ‘yes’,” said Bishop Kennedy in the March edition of Aurora magazine. “It is an awesome privilege and responsibility. I accepted the role willingly and heartily, knowing that like all new endeavours, it will hold both joys and challenges,” he said. The Bishop’s motto is ‘euntes docete’, referencing Jesus’ final words to the apostles to ‘go forth and teach’.

17 March 2023