In a spirit of gratitude, unity and joyful recollection, the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst gathered to honour four priests celebrating jubilees of faithful priestly ministry. A special Mass of Thanksgiving was held on 26 May at the Cathedral of St Michael and St John, Bathurst, with Bishop Michael McKenna presiding. The occasion drew nearly all the priests of the Diocese, who came together in fraternal support of their brother clergy.
This year, the Diocese marked the following significant jubilees:
- Fr Brien Murphy – 50 years
- Fr Ephrem Thadathil – 40 years
- Fr Francis Muhenda – 40 years
- Fr Mark McGuigan – 40 years
While only Fr Francis Muhenda and Fr Mark McGuigan were able to be present in person, all four were prayerfully honoured during the Mass.
The celebration formed part of a two-day gathering of clergy in Bathurst, which included a seminar offering time for reflection, formation and fraternity. The Jubilee Mass was a centrepiece of the gathering—an expression of shared thanksgiving for the witness and ministry of these dedicated priests.
As the Diocese journeys through the Jubilee Year 2025 under the theme Pilgrims of Hope, this Mass of Thanksgiving served as a reminder of the steady, faithful witness of those who have devoted their lives to Christ and his Church.
We give thanks to God for the gift of these men and their priesthood. May they continue to be blessed in their service and strengthened in their vocation.
