When and where were you born?

Roma, Queensland, on the 22nd Dec 1968

Memories of your childhood/family/upbringing/schooling?

I am the youngest of eight children, so my memories are of a lot of action happening all at once. Much shared love and joyfulness, with many mischievous high spirits throughout school and beyond. I was an outstanding student at school… because I was out standing in the corridor most of the time! It was fun, for me if not for the nuns, but now I am a priest, all is forgiven.

When/why did you decide to enter the Seminary?

I was prepared to enter the Seminary when I finished Grade 12, but perhaps the best thing I did was work for five years before beginning in 1992. I saw the Seminary, and Priesthood as an extension of the foundation of a liberal, but focussed Catholic upbringing.

Memories of Seminary life?

The gift of Seminary life was to allow my faith, and the expression of faith to develop beyond a childish and traditional perspective, to a creative and ‘worldly aware’ faith, that touches, and is touched by, the many enriching and diverse experiences of people’s lives. I will always be thankful to those who studied with me and taught me for this opening of my spirit.

When and where were you ordained?

I was ordained on 29th January, 1999 at Roma, Queensland.

What areas of ministry have you worked in since Ordination?

Vocations Director, Diocesan Liturgy Committee, Council of Priests, Assistant Priest – Dalby and Roma, Parish Priest – Goondiwindi.

What have been the highlights of your ministry to date?

My highlights are simple – being able to celebrate Mass with my family, including my father’s funeral, and to be connected through the sacraments with families as they grow and deepen in love of God and each other. Also seeing school children start to appreciate faith in action is very moving.

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

The challenge of just “being” without always “doing” something, by taking seriously the call to be more contemplative in life, without worrying about making a difference – leaving it more to God.

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

The spirit is not just in the printed word – change it if suits your community and will touch people’s lives. Let the Spirit of the heart prevail.

What are your personal hopes for the future?

To keep good health, to read as much as I can, spiritually and secularly, so as to be an effective pastoral presence.

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

That each faith community will take their pastoral and spiritual life seriously, and move to encourage and support local leadership, with or without a resident priest, the spirit of Vatican II.

Who has been the most influential person in your life?

There are many people who have been influential, but especially my parents who have never been too strict in their faith, but rather open to the movement of the Holy Spirit, and encouraging in erring on the side of pastoral vision.

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

The Good Man Jesus and Scoundrel Christ by Philip Pullman (book) Can’t remember the last movie, too busy reading books!

Your favourite travel destination?

Ireland, obviously!!!

What would you like on your headstone?

“I’m going to live forever… so far, so good”