RETIRED Archbishop Francis Rush of Brisbane gave himself “totally and fearlessly to the work of the Kingdom”, his successor Archbishop John Bathersby said at a February 8 Mass to celebrate a “remarkable 40 years of episcopal leadership”.
Archbishop Rush, who was ordained a priest for Townsville diocese on March 18, 1939, was ordained Bishop of Rockhampton on February 8, 1961 and Archbishop of Brisbane on March 5, 1973. He retired on December 3, 1991.
He lives in retirement at the Canossa Complex, Oxley, where Archbishop Bathersby celebrated his predecessor’s episcopal anniversary.
In his homily, Archbishop Bathersby drew on a variety of sources, which he said showed “a rich diversity, but at the same time certain reassuring themes” through Archbishop Rush’s 40 years of episcopal leadership.
“There is a constant compassion for the poor and needy, especially the sick and suffering,” Archbishop Bathersby said.
“There is a remarkable interest in people, manifest in intense and prolonged attention to their needs over a lifetime.
“There is enthusiasm for the spirit of the Second Vatican Council and the promotion of lay people in the mission of the Church.
“There is fidelity to the doctrinal foundation of Church belief.
“Finally there is a commitment to priestly prayer and spirituality as the powerhouse for all his work for the Kingdom.”
Archbishop Bathersby said to this list he would add “a brilliant intellect honed by constant and comprehensive reading, as well as his remarkable telephone ministry to people”.
“It would also be a mistake to believe the archbishop’s leadership ceased with his retirement,” he said. “He has been a constant friend and a source of advice to myself and hundreds of others, as well as undertaking a remarkable role here at Canossa.”
