Incoming administrator of St Mary’s parish South Brisbane, Fr Ken Howell, says he looks forward to taking up his appointment.
Fr Howell, the dean of St Stephen’s Cathedral, will take over administration of St Mary’s parish tomorrow (Monday April 20) in addition to his duties at the Cathedral.
This follows agreement reached in March 26 mediation talks between Fr Howell, the Brisbane archdiocese and St Mary’s parish facilitated by Ian Callinan QC.
Fr Howell told The Catholic Leader at the time that he had been “very pleased by the open and frank discussion of matters with the St Mary’s community”.
“I welcome the agreement that has been reached. This is a new phase in the history of a Parish that has existed since 1893. I look forward to listening to the people who will worship at St. Mary’s and planning the ongoing life of the Parish.”
Father Howell added “Moving into any Parish as its new Pastor is always a challenging time, and the circumstances of this transition add a particular dimension, however, I am always convinced of the good nature of people and the fact that those who will be present will want the best for their parish and community.”
Fr Howell said last week that current Mass times would continue.
“These are Saturday at 6.30 pm and Sunday at 9am and 5pm,” he said.
“They will stay the same until I have the opportunity to discuss their suitability with parishioners.”
The former Administrator of St Mary’s, Fr Peter Kennedy will celebrate his final masses in the Parish today. Archbishop Bathersby has not given Fr Kennedy a new appointment.
