Bishop Brian Mascord

When in Rome: Bishop Brian prepares for Ad Limina visit

June 6, 2019

Bishop Brian with Pope Francis in 2018 during the annual training program for newly appointed bishops.
My Sisters and Brothers in Christ

This year will mark the first time that I have experienced an Ad Limina visit to Rome with my fellow Australian bishops. The last Ad Limina took place in 2011 and usually happens every five years. So, this visit is very overdue.

In the lead-up to each each Ad Limina, every bishop must prepare and submit an extensive report for the Congregation of Bishops. Over the years, I have participated in the preparation of this report when I was vicar general of my previous diocese, but this will be the first time I have had to give an account of what is happening in the Diocese of Wollongong. This has its own complications as I am still “very green” in the diocese and so much of what has to be reported took place prior to my arrival in the diocese.

Most of the active bishops of Australia will be participating in the visit which takes place from 17–29 June 2019. We will begin with a five-day retreat outside of Rome. On 24 June, the Ad Limina will formally commence with an audience with Pope Francis (I have met the Holy Father once before when I attended the new bishops course last year.)

We will then visit the pontifical commissions, congregations and dicasteries that oversee the life of the Church. At the end of the week, Archbishop Peter Comensoli will receive, from the Holy Father, the Pallium which recognises him as the archbishop of Melbourne and metropolitan of Victoria.

Pleased be assured of my prayers for the diocese as I travel around the different churches in Rome, and I ask that you also pray for all the Australian bishops as we embark on this important journey.

Yours in Christ

 

Most Rev Brian G Mascord DD
BISHOP OF WOLLONGONG

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