Last week, Sandhurst’s newest priests spent three days in Bendigo participating in an official Welcome and Induction Programme.
Bishop Shane Mackinlay personally welcomed Fr Ruel, a Rogationist from the Philippines; Fr Addin, a Rogationist from Indonesia; and Fr Arun a Holy Spirit Father from India, while thanking them for their willingness to serve in the Diocese of Sandhurst.
The comprehensive Induction Programme is designed to familiarise priests from overseas with the pastoral, administrative and community responsibilities they will soon undertake in parishes.
While staying at St Kilian’s Presbytery, the priests visited the Chancery where they met with the Sandhurst Mission and Pastoral Life Team; Diocesan Finance Staff; the Diocesan Archivist; Health and Wellbeing Nurses; and Kate Fogarty, the Executive Director of Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd. These meetings provided a broad understanding of ministry requirements, laying essential groundwork for a priest’s ministry in Australia.
Fr Jake Mudge, Director of Clergy Life and Ministry, said it is important for priests from overseas to be supported in their transition. “The time here in Bendigo allows these new priests to, not only become familiar with ministry fundamentals but also to know they are not alone in their journey,” he said. “We need to make sure they are connected to the support structures available to them, to enhance their ministry and ensure their ongoing wellbeing.”
Chancery Administration Officer, Gayle Wybar knows these overseas priests rather well, having submitted their visa applications.
“It’s rewarding to meet these priests in person; I can’t help but smile when they walk into the Chancery for the first time,” said Gayle. “The Immigration Department asks detailed questions about applicants and, after many months of email conversation, I certainly got to know a lot about these priests. It’s like catching up with friends when we finally meet face to face.”
Their induction coincided with the Parish Administration Staff Conference. So, there was ample opportunity for parish office staff and these priests to get to know each other, with priests joining the conference attendees for prayer, some information sessions and hospitality in an atmosphere of unity and shared purpose.
These priests are now ready to embark on a new chapter of Ministry in Australia, confident in the warmth and welcome they have already received.
“We know that these priests will be made to feel at home in their new parishes,” said Bishop Mackinlay. “Their dedication and the unique gifts they bring will undoubtedly enrich the spiritual life of our community.”
Fr Ruel Desamparo R.C.J. is a Rogationist of the Sacred Heart from Cebu, the Philippines. He has been part of the Rogationist Community in South Shepparton where he has served as Assistant Priest since November 2023. He joined the Ministry Team in the Wangaratta Parishes on 23 August.
Fr Arun Kumar Korlakanti SHS, is a priest of the Society of the Holy Spirit from Hyderabad, India. He arrived in Australia on 13 August and he commenced ministry in Wangaratta on 23 August.
Fr Damianus “Addin” Doe R.C.J. is a Rogationist of the Sacred Heart, originally from Sumba, Indonesia. He arrived in Australia in late July and commenced ministry as Assistant Priest at St Mary’s Mooroopna on 12 August. He resides at Mooroopna and is a member of the Shepparton South Rogationist Community.
Image Top: In the Archives with Diocesan Archivist, Dr Donna Bailey.
Image: The Chancery's Gayle Wybar with Fr Arun (left) and Fr Ruel (right). "I can't help but smile ..." says Gayle.
