In a first for the Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba, the Ordination of  Most Rev. Robert McGuckin as Bishop of Toowoomba at St Patrick’s Cathedral on July 11th at 11am will be streamed live on the internet.

Spokesperson and Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Dr Brian Sparksman said it was an exciting concept which will allow parishioners from all parts of the Diocese, stretching from Helidon to Birdsville, to participate in this very important occasion. “We have contracted Toowoomba company Evolution Studios to handle the project using the very latest technology available. Now, for the first time people right across the region will have the opportunity to view a very special occasion in the life of the Diocese without having to actually be there” he said.

Dr. Sparksman said the project follows the successful live streaming of the ordination of Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge from St Stephen’s Cathedral earlier this year. “I’m sure that parishioners will appreciate being part of the service and enjoy the solemnity and sacredness of the occasion using the wonderful technology currently available”, he said. On the day, live streaming may be accessed via a link on the Diocesan website www.twb.catholic.org.au

Most Rev. Robert McGuckin has been officially farewelled from his home diocese of Parramatta in Sydney, where he has worked since 1986.  He was appointed Diocesan Administrator in 1997,  and since then he has been Vicar General of the Diocese and Moderator of the Diocesan Curia.

A farewell Mass was held in Parramatta’s St Patrick’s Cathedral on Saturday,  23rd  June. In his homily during the Mass, Bishop Anthony Fisher told the congregation that like St Paul, a “getting to know you and love you adventure” is ahead for the Bishop-elect as he is called “to adopt and be adopted by a new family, the church in Toowoomba”.

Submitted by:
Sr Eileen March
Catholic Media Office
PO Box 756
Toowoomba Qld 4350