On Wednesday, 19 March, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference welcomed the ordination and installation of Bishop George Kolodziej SDS as the fifth Bishop of Bunbury. The joyous occasion took place at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Bunbury, Western Australia.
Students from Our Lady of Mercy College had the privilege of attending this significant event, joining Principal Mr Vince Bellini and Director of Ministry and Community Mrs Karyn Cronin. Some students and staff contributed to the celebration by assisting with catering, while others lent their voices to the choir, enhancing the ceremony’s spiritual atmosphere.
Bishop Kolodziej was born in Dobra, Poland, and has been the Superior of the Salvatorians in Australia since October 2018. His journey with the Salvatorians began when he entered the novitiate in 1987. He made his perpetual profession in 1992 and was ordained a priest in 1994, shortly before being sent to Australia.
In a recent interview with The Record, the official publication of the Perth Archdiocese, Bishop Kolodziej reflected on his calling, his Polish heritage, and the challenges he has encountered throughout his ministry. With a background in psychology, he also shared insights into his pastoral approach and commitment to serving the Church.
“Joining the Salvatorians was my response to God’s call to serve others and proclaim the Gospel with joy and hope. My early years in the order were a time of intense spiritual and intellectual formation, which shaped my priestly ministry,” Bishop-elect Kolodziej said.
“From the beginning, I aspired to be a tool in God’s hands, ready to serve with joy wherever I was sent.
“When I reflect on this now, I’m reminded of what Pope Francis says in Evangelii Gaudium: ‘We are all called to be missionary disciples. We cannot remain in comfortable positions; we must go to the peripheries of the world, where Christ’s presence is needed’.”
The ordination of Bishop Kolodziej marks a new chapter for the Diocese of Bunbury, and Our Lady of Mercy College is grateful to have been part of this momentous occasion.
The experience provided students with a unique opportunity to witness the traditions of the Catholic faith and to celebrate the leadership and service of the Church’s newest bishop.
Watch the recording here: Bunbury Diocese YouTube Channel
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