BISHOP Max Davis took over the pastoral leadership of the men and women of the Australian Defence Force in a moving consecration Mass at Canberra’s St Christopher’s Cathedral on August 22.
Townsville-born Bishop Davis, who was consecrated on the Feast of the Queenship of Mary, paid special tribute to Mary, Help of Christians, the Patroness of Australia, and the Military Ordinariate of Australia.
In his remarks after his ordination, the new bishop said he accepted God’s call in his life with humility.
‘Let it be done according to your Word. Indeed, according to your Word and with much anticipation and excitement,’ he said.
The two-hour celebration, attended by Church, military and parliamentary representatives, was made especially touching by the presence of Bishop Geoffrey Mayne, the first Military Ordinary of Australia, as principal consecrator.
Bishop Mayne, who retired as Military Bishop last month, has battled serious ill health in recent months, and although noticeably frail, he performed the consecration with his trademark good humour and straight talking.
‘This is my last hurrah,’ he joked. ‘This is a wonderful day.’
Both Bishop Mayne and Bishop Davis gave a special welcome to the first Military Vicar, Bishop John Aloysius Morgan, who at 93 years of age, also took part in the Mass.
About 20 other bishops were present, including retired Bishop Peter Quinn of Bunbury, who ordained Bishop Davis both as a deacon and priest.
