When & where were you born?

1953, Sydney.

Memories of your childhood/family/upbringing/schooling?

Grew up in a large extended family with parents divorced in my early teens.

When/why did you decide to enter the Seminary?

Late teens.

Memories of Seminary life?

Hated the Novitiate, found university rich and challenging, enjoyed philosophy and theology, energised by three years work as a journalist.

When and where were you ordained?

1984, Sydney.

What areas of ministry have you worked in since Ordination?

Media, pastoral work, education and administration.

What have been the highlights of your ministry to date?

The teams I’ve worked with and the risks I’ve been encouraged to take.

What challenges have you faced in your ministry and how have these been overcome (if at all)?

Inexperience (my own), fear (in me and of me), lack of resources, misunderstanding (from others), faith (or the lack of it in me and others). Overcome through grace, perseverance, good friends and Providence.

What is the best advice you would pass on to future seminarians?

See where you can serve, equip yourself for it, take risks and take responsibility for your journey in faith and service.

What are your personal hopes for the future?

To create communications products in Asia that add plausibility to affirming a faith in God who’s to be found at work in the real world we share with many people from ourselves.

What are your personal hopes for the future of the Church in Australia?

That we get real, accept that lots of Catholics have mature faith in Christ and have moved on from meekly accepting a command and control life in the Church and need to be invited and encouraged to follow the Lord in our communion.

Who has been the most influential person in your life?

A couple of Jesuit priests, a university professor, my mother and father.

What was the last book you read or movie you saw?

Journey Without Arrival: A Life of Vincent Buckley;
Australia with Nicole and Hugh.

Your favourite travel destination?

Home.

What hobbies/pastimes are important to you?

Building friendships, horse racing, books, movies, yarning.

A bit of fun – what would you like to the inscription on your headstone to read?

Ad Majora Natus.