I lost my second Father. Ever since I came to Australia, about four years now, Bishop Joe has been my father, a mentor and a friend. He made me face the reality of my own father’s death, which I have been suppressing for more than ten years. Only last year, this year, during the Holy Week, when I just burst into tears realizing how I missed my Father so much. Bishop Joe was there, to comfort me, to lead me into accepting the truth of my Father’s death. It was in the small oratory in the place where he lives in Golden Square Victoria. He has been my new father since then, and now he’s gone.

Bishop Joe, I couldn’t thank you enough for your constant support for me and for us seminarians. You are a great inspiration for us all. Thank you very much. So long, farewell, and see you THERE.