BERNARD Hancock was ordained a Discalced Carmelite priest on August 7 in Boonah parish, south-west of Brisbane.
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Oudeman of Brisbane presided, with a number of diocesan priests and about 10 Carmelite Friars also present.
Fr Hancock said he “made a decision to relax and enjoy the ceremony”.
“It was a very relaxed, lovely occasion,” he said.
“The bishop spoke beautifully on the readings … and the church was packed.
“It was quite moving to see people I didn’t know at all come and celebrate with me.”
The newly-ordained Carmelite said the ordination Mass was made more special by the presence of his parents – Maureen and Allan Hancock – and sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews.
“The family was very much included (in the ordination) and that was a very nice touch,” Fr Hancock said.
“(And) a lot of people came from Melbourne and Sydney and had to stay in the local pubs.
“I never imagined people would do that (travel from Melbourne and Sydney). I was moved by their efforts.”
Fr Hancock said more than 100 family and friends were blessed by him immediately after the ordination Mass as were some “new acquaintances”.
“I had people telling me they wanted to come and see this (the ordination),” he said.
“They said they hadn’t been to church in years but would be there next weekend.
“It just showed me how God uses us.”
Maureen Hancock said the day was “wonderful and all went very well”.
Her son remained in Boonah for a week following the ordination and said he was looking forward to journeying to Perth soon to serve as assistant priest in Infant Jesus parish, Morley.
After eight weeks Fr Hancock will return to northern Sydney and minister there for a further 12 months.
