Fr Fidelis installed at Richmond: ‘I know I am not alone’

By Catherine Sheehan

As he was installed as Parish Priest at Richmond by Archbishop Julian on 13 May, Fr Fidelis Udousoro said he knew that he would not be alone in his ministry but would be serving people through the grace of God.

“I am truly grateful to the Archbishop for presiding over the Installation Mass, and for his apostolic blessing on me,” Fr Fidelis said.

“With his blessing, I know that I am not alone; it is not I who will be serving the people but the grace of God living in me.”

The historic St John the Evangelist Church in Richmond was full to capacity as parishioners gathered for the special celebration. Fr Fidelis became Administrator of the Richmond Parish after the retirement of Fr Terry Rush OAM in January last year.

“Not only was the Mass deeply moving, it was also a moment of self-examination as I reflected on God’s grace upon my life,” Fr Fidelis said.

“To be put in charge of so many souls as a parish priest is not an ordinary work. Thanks to God for choosing to work through an earthen jar like myself.”

In his homily Archbishop Julian reflected upon the ministry of a parish priest which is threefold—to teach, sanctify and govern.

“The first task of the priest is to proclaim the message of the Gospel,” Archbishop Julilan said. “He does this in his preaching, but also in offering catechesis, for example, in preparing people for the sacraments.

“Secondly, he is to sanctify. This is associated particularly with his administration of the sacraments. He is to be conduit of the grace of God touching and transforming people’s lives.

“Thirdly, he is to govern, or lead, the community. This role has two very important aspects. Leadership in the Church is servant-leadership. A priest sees his role as that of a servant of the community.”

Referring to a recent homily from newly-elected Pope Leo XIV on the topic of a missionary Church, Archbishop Julian emphasised the need for Parish Priests to be focussed on the primary mission of the Church—to brings others to Christ.

“The call to be missionary has resonated deeply with me,” Archbishop Julian said. “Over the past year I invited all parishes to reflect on how they might become missionary in character. I know this is a challenge, but it is, I believe, the call of God for us at this time.

“So as we initiate the ministry of Fr Fidelis as Parish Priest, I ask you to work closely with him in advancing the mission of this parish, to become a truly missionary parish.”

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