Archbishop appointment for Sandhurst bishop

Bishop Mackinlay said he was honoured by Pope Leo’s decision to appoint him as Archbishop of Brisbane and excited by the opportunity to serve the broader church in a new way, even though moving on from the Diocese of Sandhurst comes with sadness.

The Diocese of Sandhurst encompasses parishes and schools in the Echuca region, with Bishop Mackinlay recently attending 150th celebrations at St Mary’s Parish.

During the celebrations, he unveiled a commemorative plaque in honour of the milestone.

“Since I became the Bishop of Sandhurst nearly six years ago, I have been greatly encouraged and inspired by the lively faith and commitment of the people, priests and communities of the diocese, and by the generous friendship and welcome they have offered to me personally,’’ he said.

‘’I am grateful to have shared in the pilgrim journey of the People of God here, where we have together begun new initiatives in living out our mission as Jesus’ disciples.

“I ask for your prayerful support for me, for the Archdiocese of Brisbane and for the Diocese of Sandhurst, as I prepare to take up this ministry.”

Bishop Mackinlay is pleased to follow Archbishop Coleridge, who has been a friend and mentor of his for many years.

Archbishop Coleridge welcomed the appointment of Bishop Mackinlay as his successor.

“Bishop Shane is an experienced pastor who knows how to listen, attuned both to the big picture and the practical details,’’ he said.

‘’That combination makes him a capable administrator, well-suited to lead a diocese as large and complex as Brisbane.’’

Australian Catholic Bishops Conference president Archbishop Timothy Costelloe welcomed the appointment on behalf of the Australian bishops.

Bishop Mackinlay will celebrate a mass of thanksgiving (farewell mass) at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo, on Sunday, September 7.