Parish life

A life of faith and love: diocese farewells Fr David Catterall

July 28, 2025

Clergy, Parish life

The Diocese of Wollongong has farewelled one of its beloved priests, Fr David John Catterall, in a deeply moving series of liturgies attended by thousands, following his passing on 8 July 2025.

Fr David, 52, served as a priest in the diocese for over two decades, most recently as the founding parish priest of St Mary MacKillop Parish in Oran Park. His death, following a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, was met with an extraordinary outpouring of grief and gratitude from parishioners, clergy, and the wider Catholic community.

In a statement, Bishop Brian Mascord described Fr David as, “A man of deep faith, selfless service and unwavering hope—even in the face of great personal suffering.” He continued, “His love for the Church, his people, and his family was a gift to us all. We entrust him now to the loving embrace of the Father.”

That love was returned in abundance. A Facebook post announcing Fr David’s funeral arrangements has been viewed a staggering 335,000 times, with hundreds of heartfelt tributes posted in response.

“Father David was the embodiment of love, faith, and unwavering dedication…. His impact on our spiritual journey is immeasurable,” wrote Antoinette T.

“Father David truly embodied the spirit of St Mary MacKillop’s words, not just in sentiment but in action,” shared Christine Z.

The outpouring of emotion continued at the Vigil Mass of Remembrance, held on Wednesday 23 July at St Benedict’s Catholic College, Oran Park—a location chosen to honour Fr David’s years of ministry as the parish’s founding priest. The college hall was filled beyond capacity with more than 1,500 people, with many more standing outside in silent prayer and support.

Bishop Mascord led the liturgy, with Deacon Sam Gennaoui preaching a heartfelt homily in honour of the priest who had helped guide his own vocation. Fr David’s sister, Suzanne Hayes, and close friend Emma Harrison offered emotional Words of Remembrance that left few dry eyes in the room.

The social media comments continued pouring in: “[It] was such a moving and beautiful service. A true testament to the amazing human, priest, friend, family and mentor Fr David was and always will be to so many. Saint David, forever,” wrote Romina G. E.

The following morning, mourners gathered again for the funeral Mass at St Paul’s Catholic Church in Albion Park—the parish where Fr David was baptised, received his sacraments, and was ordained a deacon. Once again, the church overflowed, with additional seating in the parish school hall.

Fr James Arblaster celebrated the Mass with moving reverence, sharing a homily that reflected his close friendship with Fr David and the joy and authenticity that marked his priestly ministry. Bishop Mascord presided, joined by clergy from across the diocese and beyond, including Bishop Danny Meagher from the Archdiocese of Sydney.

Suzanne Hayes again delivered the Words of Remembrance, offering both humour and poignancy as she reflected on her brother’s life, faith, and deep love for his family and parishioners.

“Today’s Mass was not only a committal of his soul to God’s mercy, but a celebration of a life rooted in fidelity, prayer, and service. Fr James spoke not just of Fr David’s ministry, but of the call we all share, to live for Christ, to love without counting the cost, and to await the day we are reunited in glory,” shared Annemarie L online.

Following the Mass, Fr David was laid to rest in the church grounds cemetery, alongside his mother, a fitting resting place for a man who had dedicated his life to serving God and his people.

In his final days, Fr David asked only for prayers: “To be accompanied in prayer is the greatest gift one can receive at this time.”

As the diocese continues to mourn his loss, many take comfort in the quote Fr David often shared from St Mary MacKillop: “Remember, we are but travellers here.”