Former Osborne Park Parish Priest Fr Michael Gatt will be remembered for his annual hosting of the Gattline over Christmas, exemplifying his zeal and dedication. It was during these times that he would make himself available 24/7, listening to callers and encouraging them with his experience, especially with his experience of the goodness and mercy of God. He passed away on Thursday 19 May.
In his homily for the 2022 Volunteers Week Mass, Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton reflected on St John’s Gospel of The Last Supper, highlighting that Jesus is teaching us that God loves us first and that in order for us to live as disciples of that love, we are given the Spirit that enables us to give ourselves totally in the way that he has given.
Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton met with representatives of Timor-Leste and the Philippines and discussed how faith and connections enrich international communities.
Catholics have been challenged at a special Mass at the dawn of National Volunteer Week to embrace the fullness of the faith by loving others in concrete ways. The Mass, celebrated by Bishop Don Sproxton, also celebrated the good works of countless volunteers throughout the Archdiocese of Perth.
Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton has recalled the phone call he received in December 2001 to appoint him as a Bishop. The then Mirrabooka Parish Priest had just returned home when he took the call from Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Francesco Canalini.
“I remember the Nuncio saying to me, ‘I can understand you would be surprised and perhaps a little fearful, as we [fellow bishops] all have been ourselves.
“’The Lord will help you and give you what you need,’ were his exact words.”
In his 2022 Easter Message, Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton says that the experience of Jesus, in facing his death and eventually succumbing and dying, touches on the deepest of questions we all must face.
Below is the transcribed homily of Perth Emeritus Archbishop Barry Hickey, on the occasion of Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton’s Episcopal Ordination, Thursday 21 February 2002, at St Mary’s Cathedral.
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton’s Episcopal Ordination, The Record has produced a very special video for readers to look back and remember this momentous occasion.