Fr Bernie Patterson celebrates 40 years of service

Fr Bernie with Loretta Wholley, Principal of Merici College at the College's Commissioniing Liturgy.

It was a wonderful opportunity at our recent Commissioning Liturgy, held on Monday 16 October, for Mrs Loretta Wholley, Principal, to take the opportunity of acknowledging and celebrating the work of Fr Bernie Patterson.

"Today we take the opportunity to acknowlege and celebrate Fr Bernie. We do this in thanksgiving for the 40 years of service he gives as a priest since his ordination in 1977.

Fr Bernie:

  • Was born and grew up in Wagga, NSW
  • He worked in the the NSW Taxation Department for ten years before studying to become a priest.
  • He has ministered for parishes in Page, St Christopher's, Curtin, Kaleen, Gungahlin, Bega and Canberra Central (Dickson and Braddon).

Fr Bernie's life is characterized by his:

  • Unwavering belief in God's love for him and for all people.
  • Commitment to living by the Gospel values of Jesus and working for the Kingdom of God.
  • Generous and loving service of others.
  • The total giving of himself to listening to the Holy Spirit and accepting the power of the Holy Spirit to lead and guide his everyday life.
  • He is selfless - always putting others first and never himself.
  • He is always asking "How can I help you?".
  • He is a generous giver, sharing his time and energy without judgeent or criticism of others.
  • He embraces the Gospel Service Model that Jesus enacted at the Last Supper: "After washing the disciples feet, Jesus said "What I have done, you also must do."

Thank you Fr Bernie for your ministry, your support, your prayers and your commitment to the Merici College community."

 

Loretta Wholley

Principal

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