Big Week for me. Phone rang Wednesday a.m. “It’s the archbishop. I’ll be there in 20 minutes.” I didn’t have time to think or call for help.
Luckily, Judy, the office manager, was present to take notes.
By the time he left, I was feeling 90 years of age, not 75, the age of statutory senility.
He gave me two dates for compliance. One was my birthday. He expects a letter of resignation. The other is a month later. He expects me to vacate the premises.
No good whingeing about lack of courtesy or respect for a senior field officer.
Power makes some people less restrained than they naturally are. Jesus warned about power, especially among his disciples.
Someone, later, allegedly said: “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely”.
It’s not a universal absolute. I’ve known leaders, both civil and military, endowed with enormous power who presented as humble as doormats. They were great leaders for all of that.
I’ve handed the issue over to the local “elders”. It’s not between me and the archbishop, as far as I’m concerned and he denies.
It’s got to be between South Melbourne catholics, their neighbourhood associates and the Head Office executive, including the archbishop.
By the way, I read in ‘The Age’ this morning that Collingwood catholics are on a collision course with Head Office, including the archbishop, over the demolition and rebuilding of their church building, recently destroyed by fire. God help them in their struggle. Short of that they’ve written to the Pope!
I’ve already warned off several friendly “stirrers” who would like to publically protest about the “predicament”.
I’m an institution man despite what anyone says. I wouldn’t do anything to make it harder for church to be a “mother”. I see it as part of my mission to reassure insiders and outsiders that the Catholic church is here for them, like a mother at her best, unconditional and non-judgemental, self-sacrificial.
I believe that’s the message of Pope Benedict 16’s recent pen letter (encyclical) “Caritas in Veritate” (True Love).
I’m an institution man. I’m orthodox and, to some, unconventional. For example, I received a beautifully crafted letter last week: “I admire your work BUT I was shocked by your espousal of Good Friday football.”
It was written by an eminent knight who has held high office in both church and state.
He was firing a warning shot. The rich and powerful catholic neo-cons have had enough of my style, valued as it may be by secular society.
Vatican 2 ordered all catholics into secular society as an environment equally sacred as the religious, clerical environment. That’s my preferred field of dreams, chosen for me not by me.
Nine out of ten catholics either do or would choose to read “the signs of the times” and act accordingly, become social activists.
One out of ten prefers devotional Catholicism, becoming even more passionate in prayer and worship.
Spare a thought as we work this thing out. A parish and a neighbourhood deserve a positive outcome. If that leaves me here as parish priest, all the better.
RJM
“Jesus warned about power, especially among his disciples.
Someone, later, allegedly said: “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely”.
Hi Bob as a ex exclusive brethren member i can understand this.
Im no longer a believer myself but still appreciate people like yourself who still have some humanity left.The world needs more of it.
All the best wishes.
Hi Mary you seem very nice too,but i do wonder a little if maybe you care slightly more of the publicity of the church than you care of people who have been sexually abused .
You seem to compare sexual abuse within secular situations to that that happens within churches as being equal.Shouldnt we expect a little more of those who suggest the spirit of god dwells within them.
Dont mean to sound nasty or judgmental.Just wondering.
And alarm bells start ringing slightly, when i see church people downplaying matters.Guess its close to the bone for me also.
Father Bob I wish you all the best in your retirement but I request that you do not belittle the missionaries that come to assist the church in its mission. Please also do not belittle those whose political opinions may be different to your own. It does yourself no favors. Be charitable not just in financial things but in spiritual things as well. You will find that many so called neo-con groups also provide charitable services to those whose opinions may differ from yours will be discouraged from doing so by your mean comments.
Happy 75, Bob. You were great back then in the ’60s when we Franciscan seminarians were allowed, even encouraged, to attend your talks at St. Francis Xavier, Box Hill…get a glimpse of real life in the real world. I admire your institutionalism and orthodoxy, but I admire much more other things about you (try the twelve fruits and the seven gifts – they’re in Paul’s writings somewhere. Thanks for your inspiration over the years.
Peter Dillon, fellow chaplain of Barb D, Deakin University, Geelong. Go Cats
Happy Birthday Fr Bob. Hope the day is a good one for you.
… and a good one for the others.
You don’t desert the troops. ‘Nam. Does that not also mean the troops at your current front door ? The ordinary people ? Sometimes I have grief about those above us, their being not down and dirty where it’s all at. Have they lost all their golden collar crosses in places other than the jungle sludge ?
God bless … an Anglican.
Before I leave this blog site I’d like to share a favourite joke of mine.
Saint Peter is taking the latest arrival on a guided tour of heaven.Over there are the Buddhists and around the corner there are the muslims.Across that little bridge are the Amish. The new arrival was very impressed as each new bend in the road saw more joyful groups .Suddenly the impressed arrival saw a very high wall. Who is behind the wall? the new arrival asked curiously.O that is the Catholics ;they think they are the only ones here!
I love and cherish my Catholic faith.I did nothing to earn this precious gift.It was my ancestors who suffered and in some cases died to ensure that I received this gift and I am forever grateful for their fidelity and courage.
In times of unrest I remember Jesus’ promise “He will be with us all days” The Church cannot be destroyed but it can be grievously wounded by our sins.The scandal of abuse is a terrible wound on the body of Christ.Some have used this as a reason to stop practising their faith and that saddens me.Now is not the time to abandon the Church.When Mother Church is mocked and dismissed as irrelevant we must be filled with the courage of Pentecost and trust Jesus’ promise that He would protect Her from error by sending the Holy Spirit. That Spirit has guided the Church for 2000 years and will do so till time’s end.
Strive to be holy. If you have left come back home; if you want to become a Catholic contact the Cathedral and begin the journey.
It is not complicated or difficult.
God bless you all-I will keep you in my prayers.
Hmmmm. I am not Christian in the religious sense, not any sect for that matter. It would seem to me as an observer that the church in its age has lost its purpose, a purpose which seems to be alive with Father Bob. Community is the key here not religion or an abstract law developed for a purpose unknown to the owners of the institution, the people. It’s not about the church its actually about the parish, this is the true power of the entity called the Catholic Church and in fact any church. It’s apparent to me that the disconnect the church has with the community that is pushing it further to the margins and diminishing its relevance. It no longer engages but lectures, it no longer cares but prescribes; it no longer listens but orders. While my belief in an abstract symbol known as god is simply not there, I see the merit in why such gatherings of people with a common belief system existed. They existed to serve the people, to benefit the community, to bond and care for our physical and spiritual needs. They are not the bricks and mortar, nor the rules and laws, and while they have a common philosophy/theology there power is only as strong as the connection to those and between those that make up the group. If you went back a thousand years you would see little in the way of rules, law and organised hierarchy, why then is the church so rigid in applying laws that have nothing to do with the religion, the community it serves or the promise it purports to make to its GOD.
If I where you father Bob I’d up stumps and start the new South Melbourne Catholic Church is a local scout hall and let the Archbishop preside of an empty edifice, and preach to statues. It is obvious that this is more important that providing a service to the people, for the people and wanted by the people.
“Power makes some people less restrained than they naturally are. Jesus warned about power, especially among his disciples.” I’ve been mulling over these words from Bob for the last week…..and I think they express the fundamental problem in the church…why is it that the church seems to bring out the absolute best and worst in people? The simple answer is that where grace is, so is Ole Nick! I accept that…there’s always some demon trying to throw muck at goodness…goes on everywhere…the liberating thing about Jesus, and mind you all the other prophets and guides sent to us, is that in His service power evaporates in the face of humility..the hallmark of the ministry at South and all connected to it is humility..pure and simple….a non judgmental getting hands dirty practical approach that is underpinned by faith in the fundamental goodness of the human condition and the gnosis that the illuminating grace of God can shatter the proudest heart…..and all this done in a seemingly unconscious manner…wow…aint that something…it is a rare thing…not unique…..but it is rare……I well recall the tremendous self sacrificing love of my Indian abuna who fed and when he could housed the dispossessed and disadvantaged in inner city Melbourne and his only income was a little offering here and there..but I can tell you a bowl of rice served by his holy hands satisfied the heart and soul of all who partook of his “eucharistic” meals….this ministry is vital to the life of the church….and as many have commented here it is bigger than one man…no doubt about that…BUT…what family wants to lose their father if he doesn’t have to go? My abuna was powerlessness incarnate, rejected by many because of his colour and his utter simplicity and childlikeness, regarded by professional clerics as being “simple”…my Lord I bear witness he did saintly work in melbourne…and that work on a much smaller scale that the work at SOuth bit it was the SAME work….carried out in the SAME spirit…and emanating from the SAME source…..so what’s all the fussin’ and fightin’ in the churches over? Ss Eldad & Medad ora pro nobis!!!!
I just want to make an effort to humbly contribute my thoughts on Fr. Bob’s tireless efforts.
As a very young parishioner in St Peter & Pauls in the early to mid 70′s my Catholic journey started with Father Bob as what I now look back on as a shining example of what Catholicism can, & I believe, should be about. Humility compassion, justice and love for fellow human beings lived out in a practical way that demonstrates our faith, all with an interesting turn of phrase that leaves you never knowing whats coming next. Deeds not words. When trying to defend Catholicism and explain that the new wave of conservatism is not my idea of Catholicism I ask if they Know of Fr. Bob Maguire. I am then very proud to say that is the sort of catholicism I believe in and aspire to be.
The best wishes of the entire Ross Family are with you. Bryan Ross (junior)
i thought there was a shortage of priests??? so why get rid of one of the most devoted and THE most publically recognisable one. Ask me what the arch bishops name is… i wouldn’t have a clue. Father Bob however appeals to the masses, including youth like me. If he can reach that many people, and use that position to spread love and Gods will, then why on earth would anyone try to make him retire??? I’ve met Father Bob, and I have no doubt in my mind that he saved me, because of his connection to God and his community. I don’t believe in God, but that night, Bob’s God believed in me.
well,maddyl, I reckon you took a plunge into the little river of grace that night when ‘Bob’s God’ found you. What you wrote is great and moved me a great deal. What I think recently is that some spirit in the world is full of contempt for humanity, for children, for God. I am so glad to see in your case, you and Fr Bob had a shining moment of triumph.
Ok. One last post before I stop contributing to this matter.
This has been an interesting experience reading the posts and replies.
First and most important, Father Bob I hope this turns out well for you, your dog, the parish, those who need you and Church as a whole. Mind you with a person like Mary on God’s side- well, you got to be in with a chance.
Second to all the others who have contributed posts, you have enriched my understanding of humanity. There are posts here with heartfelt expressions of goodwill from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and beliefs. They are a testament to years of service to God’s people.
There are those who question the motivation to resist retirement. That’s Ok. When I was younger, I thought the same. Now, I think differently because people keep asking me when I’m going to retire.I’m not going to, by the way.
There are those who see Father Bob as a self server doing this work to gain adulation for himself rather than continuing Christ’s work on earth. Surely there are easier ways to gain adulation than to be a priest serving the vulnerable and forgotten.
And then there are the few that appall me. I understand the differences in belief orthodoxy; I even understand the dislocation that people feel from their Church when the rites and rituals they grew up with disappear or are modified. I can sympathise with that. But I cannot and will never understand the vitriol and personal slurs on a few posts (and mercifully only a few).
Father Bob is an ordained priest in the service of God. If his actions defy Canon Law, the Church hierarchy is the proper authority to turn in seeking to remedy the situation. I’ll give you an example not connected to this situation. When the recent bushfires killed so many people, caused so much anguish in addition to destroying whole communities, do you remember the pastor who publicly said it was God’s retribution for the Victorian Parliament passing what he saw as an immoral law? I think he was sincere in his belief but his action was abhorrent. He did not consider the suffering of others; he seized upon an event and used it as the medium for broadcasting his particular view of orthodoxy. You have to wonder what kind of God would sanction such behaviour.
I value robust debate; it makes people examine their values and grow both personally and spiritually. It strengthens you not weakens you. But slurs and insults do neither. They expose the person delivering them as spiritually impoverished and vengeful, create resentment and cast doubt without any evidence or basis in truth. It is a sad fact that humans will always be human first and loving second. All we can do is pray silently and deep in our hearts for that to change and, by our example, try to be more Christ like. I know that for me, it’s a pretty big ask but we can only do the best we can.
So finally, and my apologies to all who have laboured through this missive, may you all be blessed all the days of your life.
Nice David.
Acknowledged.
God bless you and father Maguire, even though he drives me crazy. (-:
Yes david very thoughful piece…I happened to chat with Revd David Millikan (UCA) on the phone the other day, he’s the parish minister at Balmain UCA and former head of ABC religious affairs department. We got chatting about Melbourne and Fr Bob and he expressed support for Bob and commented on the great ministry thats been going on for so many years….just another example of how the work at South and environs has reached so much further than the denomination, suburb and mindset……and Peter D I understand your point about Bob driving you crazy….for my 2/- worth mate….go with the flow!!!! It works!
David I agree wholeheartedly
“I think he was sincere in his belief but his action was abhorrent… You have to wonder what kind of God would sanction such behaviour.”
Certainly not the New Testament God of Mercy and Love.The poor man was sincere He had a dream. This is where we all need to be very careful not every dream or intuition is from the Holy Spirit; the Devil is a master of disguise.We need to pray each day for true discernment. And, even if this dream was a true message from God it does not mean God wanted it broadcast He should have waited and prayed more deeply. His utterances caused much pain to people who were already suffering a great deal to begin with and my understanding is that it is the devil who puts the boot in and Jesus who raises us up with gentle forgiveness even if we have brought truouble on ourselves through our own actions.
While I have been very impressed buy some of your comments mary as an example to all catholics, Im going to be pendatic
As God is infinite, “he is”. not “he was” or “he will be”. This means that he is unchanging. While god in his infinite wisdom reveals to us more about himself in the new testement, he is still unchanging. He was not solely a god of justice in the old testement just as he is not solely a god of mercy in the new testement. He is, and always has been, and always will be, a god of mercy, justice and love. Just as God rained fire and brimstone on soddom as a punishment for sin, we know from Fatima that the scourge of WW1 and WW2 were both punishments for sin. In fact the blessed Virgin Mary appeared to warn people while they were suffering that their suffering was because of unfaithfulness to god, not to make people feel worse, but out of great love and charity.
I fully agree with your comments about discernment, at all times we should pray for the strength and grace to do Gods will alone and not out own selfish desires.
Thank you for the comment ; it is good to correct my lack of precision.
God Bless
By what biblical text do you assimilate with your belief that God started ww1 and ww2? Do you not know that the entire world is in the hand of Satan?
1 John 5:19 RV — “We know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in the evil one.”
Father Bob has had many opportunities to preach the Gospel of Jesus but never does. He has the ear of so many people but never proclaims the gospel
Re: Causes of WW1 and WW2.Think of this, God is love.Think of the men coughing up lung tissue from the mustard gas…God caused this? God stood with Dr.Mengler as he injected battery acid into children to check how long till they died? Sorry. Can’t deal with the logic of a punishing God.We manage very nicely I think without the interventions of a punitive God it seems we have a ‘system’ or two that is not simply punitive but is actively hateful of human beings in their godly state, contemptuous of life because it IS. ‘Being’ is enough to trigger the antithetical response. But mate, God is a FATHER, what father wants his children to suffer the abominations we see in war and out of it?
Father Bob may be flawed…who isn’t?…but though I have never met him, it seems to me, he is doing what the Father wants and said so well through St Francis, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel, and use words if necessary.’
“I think he was sincere in his belief but his action was abhorrent. He did not consider the suffering of others; he seized upon an event and used it as the medium for broadcasting his particular view of orthodoxy. You have to wonder what kind of God would sanction such behaviour”
Pehaps you should read Exudos chapter 12.
I am not making an argument one way or the other on whether the victorian bushfires were a punishment from God or as to whether this man is speaking for God when he says it is a punishment. I’m just pointing out that God has sent death and destruction for grevious sins and has sent a man to tell them why the punshment was infilicted and warn of more pain and suffering they do not repent.
St Paul teaches that the wages of sin is death both in the spiritual sense and the early sense. Even the greatest most holy saints suffer the punishment of death. This is no reason to say that god is cruel but rather, a reason to rejoice in his mercy of actually giving us a chance to obtain everlasting life with him.
Whether or not the Victorian bushfires were a punishment for abortion is not subjective, they either were sent by god as a punishment for abortion or not sent by God as a punishment for abortion. If you truly believe that they were sent by God as a punishment for abortion, surely the most cruelest thing would be to omit from warning peple how they could forgo this suffering in the future.
On a final note. Surely it would be in error to say that natural processes are not precisely controlled by God. As psalm 147 beautifully puts it:
“Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem: praise thy God, O Sion. 13 Because he hath strengthened the bolts of thy gates, he hath blessed thy children within thee. 14 Who hath placed peace in thy borders: and filleth thee with the fat of corn. 15 Who sendeth forth his speech to the earth: his word runneth swiftly.
16 Who giveth snow like wool: scattereth mists like ashes. He sendeth his crystal like morsels: who shall stand before the face of his cold? He shall send out his word, and shall melt them: his wind shall blow, and the waters shall run.”
Psalm 125 also says:
“Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it. Unless the Lord keep the city, he watcheth in vain that keepeth it. It is vain for you to rise before light, rise ye after you have sitten, you that eat the bread of sorrow.”
While I think it would be wrong to say “God sent this because of x” without divine revalation, surely we can say “yes this is because of sin” because we know that suffering and death are the effects of sin.
Whatever the outcome of of this issue, it examplifies the need for constant prayer for priests and other religous vocations.
May we all continue to praise God for both his justice and his infinite mercy!
Thank you for these references Francis.
I like to keep learning spiritually and appreciate it.
God has created me to do Him some definite service,
He has comitted some work to me which he has not comitted to another.
I have my mission-I may never know it in this life, but I shall be told it in the next.
I am a link in a chain,a bond of connection between persons.
He has not created me for naught,I shall do good.
I shall do His work.
I shall be an angel of peace, a preacher of truth in my own place while not intending it if I but keep His commandments.
Therefore I will trust Him.
Whatever, wherever I am, I can never be thrown away.
If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him; in perplexity my perplexity may serve Him.
If I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve Him;
He does nothing in vain.
He knows what He is about.
He may take away my friends
He may throw me among strangers.
He may make me feel desolate; make my spirits sink, hide my future from me-
Still He knows what He is about.
Bob I just wanted to say that as an Athiest/Agnostic (who thinks that Dawkins needs to get out and smile more) I’m trully inspired by you and the work that others like you perform.
Whether that be in the name of Him or Her or even It is to me, frankly besides the point.
You provide food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless and comfort for the agrieved. In my eyes that makes you a hero in every sense of the word.
The idea that you should be told to vacate your position is absurd at best and insulting at worst. If you wish to continue your excellent work under the umbrella of the church then I really can’t see a single why that shouldn’t be the case.
I understand that you have trodden on the toes of some of the more conservative Christians in your church and I truly hope that this isn’t a vendetta to remove you from public sight under the guise of ‘law’.
If this is the case then the people involved need to take a long hard look at themselves and ask whether their actions in ousting you are truly what is best for the needy and forlorn or whether they’ve fallen into a trap of protecting, what they obviously see, as the honourable name of the church.
God Help Us, because the church (or at least the Arch Bishop) doesn’t seem interested anymore.
God bless you Fr. Bob, and thank you for the love, the faith, the hope and the charity you have spread so widely. I pray that we can all accept of God’s will and that whatever He wills will come to be.
Acceptance of God’s Will
In all things may the most holy, the most just, and the most lovable will of God be done, praised, and exalted above all for ever. Your will be done, O Lord, your will be done. The Lord has given, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord now and always. Amen.
Janet
Beautiful post Janet!
Media tart or not Father Bob we’d love to have you, all are welcome to join us in Peace. an aussie catholic slightly naughty but fair-dinkum for Christ. please feel free to explore an Aussie perspective of The Gospel of Peace. Peace is heaven’s Name, Meaning, Will and Glory and Matthew 7:12 His Righteousness, the royal law of Heaven.
care and respect as you would want to be cared and respected, the yoke of His Freedom that all are invited to wear. we’ll be praying for you Father Bob. Love your work, Jesus Loves you.
Difference between being at peace and being in Peace.
G’day Father Bob,
There is a difference between being at peace and being in Peace that our world would do well to learn. Thanks be to God. God is a Good God yea Father Bob? Let’s hope now that the Pharisee will see the hypocrisy of their way, consider all the damage done in the name of the Kingdom, since leaving the free gift of Grace behind in the enactment of Acts 15:28, “For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;” and in doing so by the necessary things added, the free grace is no more, for how can you add a cost to Grace and grace to remain a free gift of God?
Hopefully now, the Pharisee may follow the James example and repent, come back to being blessed by adhering to, by doing and not just hearing the perfect law of Liberty, as quoted in James 1:25, and return to Jesus’ way of Peace, the Royal law of Heaven, which is to say, therefore be doers of Matthew 7:12 and not just hearers of it, as James so bluntly reminds us to do.
All the best and even better, Peace be with you Father Bob. The world really does need to hear of Jesus’ Good News of the Kingdom of Peace, as we must believe in Peace to receive Peace, for you have to believe peace is possible before peace will happen, as what you believe determines your behaviour.
Please be encouraged enough to know that The Kingdom of Peace is Near, eg. Hebrews 7:2. Not all know the Name of Jesus Kingdom Father Bob, but in the knowing, we will have Peace on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will be born again, it really is up to you, your People, your Catholic superiors because, now you know, and all will have to give account for what you all didn’t do with the Gospel of Peace and it’s reforming way to Christ.
In and with all sincerity to Peace,
Yours in Peace.
Rod Stephens.
Citizen of Peace.
Ref: Matthew 28:15.
Dear Father Bob,
I too have suffered age discrimination in continuing in my working life. I believe our Lord God will come to our aid. My husband and I admire your work and totally support your efforts to remain at your parish.
Cheryl & Kevin Murphy
We totally support Father Bob’s work and admire and appreciate him and his devotion to the Church and to his flock. If it is good enough for the ‘Gander’ (our Pope to work at 82) then it is good enough for this gander to continue at his parish until he says he is no longer able. We are very short of Priests and Bob is a credit to the Catholic faith.
Wallace & Joan Cameron
Why are you so scared of retiring from the parish? What stops you doing stuff anyway. It’s time to move on and give someone else a go.
I agree Justin, Fr Bob are you listening????
what “stuff” do priest do? if they are ikons of Jesus I guess they feed the poor, bind up the broken hearted and put up with self righteous know alls….
How about some grammar lessons for you Rev?
This parish, including me, is in the middle of stuff.Let’s wait.RJM.
thanks Bob, guess I’ve got a bit more growing to do…..need to be more in the middle of stuff too….
Now that everybody has spoken lets move on..
Firstly Fr Bob grow up and stop behaving like a little child who has had his toys taken away from him.
Let somebody else enjoy the spoils of office.
You are not God and your parish will still flourish without you.
Its time to pack up and move on.
Ps your position was given to you for life that is 75 as per canon law…
Justin,
Fr Bob is the best man to lead his parish. More than anything it is evident that the people of his parish wish him to stay – Never has Fr Bob alluded to the fact that he is above the Lord and nor does he believe he is.
Why should an outsider be brought in solely based on Fr Bob turning 75? .
Cannon law does not dictate this as certain and compulsory. There are cases where this law has been waived.
Your notion that someone else should ‘enjoy the spoils of office’ is naive. Leading the parish is about serving God and the community.
Duncan
“the spoils of office”??? justin have you ever been in the priethood? do you know what priesthood is?
This parish and neighbourhood is no one’s toy.RJM.
Seems pretty obvious to me that there is a far greater love for Fr Maguire than the Church. Would any supporters of Fr Maguire care if the Church folded tomorrow? I think not.
Fr Bob loves Vatican II, and the fruits of this council speak for themselves. I just pray that Father will reconcile with the Church that gave him the grace and inspiration to become a priest in the first place. One rosary will do that.
a beautiful simple solution.Thanks.
Peter, I was ‘born’ Catholic but my faith in the Church waned many, many years ago.
As a result of meeting Father Bob (I was lucky enough to be married by him) I’ve completely reconsidered my feelings towards the Church and it’s reliance to my life.
I’ve also completely reconsidered the Church’s relevance at all. Father Bob not only does amazing work for the greater community, he does amazing work for the Catholic Church. If there were more priests like him, rest assured the Church wouldn’t have the reputation it does with many.
Thanks Ben, no doubt Father Maguire is a testament to the command of charity. I make no judgement against his character. I do however love the faith with all my heart and believe that a priests first and foremost duty is to administer the sacraments and teach the faith. I hope that now you’ve reconsidered your faith you will support her dogmatic teachings on the condemnation of active homosexuality, abortion, fornication etc. I would hope that your return is due to love of the faith and teachings, not purely for love of Father Maguire.
Father Maguire would not want it any other way, surly.
Peter if you read the documents of Vatican 2 there was much good that emerged from the Council,
Unfortunately some under the “guise” of carrying out Vatican 2 simply went off tangent and followed their own bent and there was a period of confusion and name calling and general unrest amidst both laity and religious.
Thanks to the hard work of John Paul 2 and Benedict the confusion is gradually clearing up and if we persevere in prayer and our individual pusuit of holiness catholics will once more be salt and light in the world which is in such dire need of these qualities.
You seem to think Father Bob has broken with the Church but I think Father Bob is wiser and more faithful than that.
He knows he will remain faithful even if he has to pack up his kit bag and move on.
I believe he has a courageous heart and I am sure if he does take out the beads and prays to oue Blessed Mother she will strenthen and console him in whatever challenges and even disappointments that might lay in store for him.
I believe beneath that irascible exterior is a tender and loving heart full of compassion and tenderness for God’s flock with perhaps just a touch of Irish cultural baggage in that he bristles at authority .
Yet Jesus did leave an authority structure behind. Perhaps because He knew us all too well and understood how our temperaments and egos would mean we would all scatter in a thousand different directions if He did not give Peter authority and send down the Paraclete to aid our discernment and give our cowardly souls a bit of courage.
God Bless you and Father Bob who I have worked out is RJM (sorry Father I am a bit slow on the uptake sometimes!)
Beautiful Mary.
That was wonderful and thoughtful.
I did not mean to debate Vatican II, the horse has bolted. My point is the damage is undeniable. Catholics don’t practice the faith, vocations are all but disappeared,the Mass is a joke, yet there are so many who deny the obvious!
Why is that?
That is a hard one Peter D. I find it puzzling and dfficult to understand myself Many of my peers have abandoned the practice of their faith.
Perhaps much of it can be explained by a mixture of poor teaching and parents assuming that because children were attending catholic schools they had no futher role to play forgetting taht the greatest teacher of all is examole.
I was very lucky I attended a school too poor to have pretension ans snobbery which I think can undermine the developlment of faith and my parents always warned us that religious were human beings and if we encountered some who were unpleasant to not let that confuse us and think the Faith was unpleasant It was simply that they were struggling in their vocation and needed prayers.
The other thing I find helps make sense of the times we are living through is over the last 20 years or so the pendulum swung to a reluctance to discuss the devil and sin.It seems to have been seen as being negative.I don’t view it as negative but as realistic .
It is as if many threw away the map that showed where the quicksand and inpenetrable forests were and decided to set off without map or compass and because they imagined that evil would always look and sound ugly they failed to even recognise the Big Bad Wolf when they met him and many poor souls ended up bruised and damaged after such meeting(s)
The beautiful thing is that at any stage of life’s journey they can rediscover the map and begin travelling towards God again.The Good Thief shows us God is ever merciful. Those of us lucky enough to have had the faith passed down to us have a duty to strive for personal holiness to be both salt and light in our darkening world.
I don’t worry because Jesus told us not to worry. I simply do my best to try to become holy. My old grandmother used to say you should be so focused on weedin the garden of your own soul that you have neither the time nor the inclination to judge the state of your neighbour’s soul!
It is not always easy especially when loved family members abandon their faith .All we can do is keep on keepin on and we have the wonderful example of saints like Monica who persevered in prayer for 40 years-whenever I become discouraged I think of her.
In case you are confused the Cardinal Newmann entry was my response to you Peter D
Earlier I had entered his beautiful prayer of trust and forgot to change the name field.
“And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
The church has suffered much through its 2000 year history: The Roman persecution, the Arian heresy, the protestant reformation, numerous schisms, and leaders like Napolean who swore to erradicate catholiscism. Many of the churches problems can be attributed to men who held high office in the church at the time. Either through their actions or inactions.
The fact that the church has withstood these trials is testement to Christ’s promise.
While this may seem to be one of the lowest points in the churches history due to widespread heresy and lack of authority, we should not despair but rather constantly renew out trust in god and constantly pray for the revival of his church as well as for the clergy that they may by filled with the zeal of the Holy Ghost in their preaching. Also, pray to St John Vianney patron saint of priest that he might intercede for the church. Remember that he through his relentless self denial, constant prayer, championing of the confessional, and vigorous preaching without fear, he transformed a whole region to love, cherish and honour God.
St John Vianney
Pray for us
I thank God that Fr Bob loves Jesus and His people and like Jesus he doesn’t discriminate; thats what he taught me many years ago….it’s only now some 35 odd years later that I am beginning to realise the depth of that lesson..I was also blessed to meet and sit at the feet of a saintly ascetic Indian priest some 20 years back and he, a completely different person from Fr Bob, taught me EXACTLY the same lesson…..Fr Bob is of my original tribe he first taught me how to “love one another as I have loved you”….Fr Bob is one of the few remaining ones that I can easily and readily identify with…I say a BIG Deo Gratias for the servant of God the priest Bob and pray that the Lord will grant him many years at the altar!
Peter D, we all are working to make it more likely the Church WON’T fold.RJM.
Fr Bob,
As a young Catholic I find you hugely inspirational. You offer much not only to your parish but also to the Catholic community as a whole.
I think it’s a shame some people within our faith believe they are above us and think they know what is best for us.
Someone of your intelligence and commitment is best served actively and continuously.
Please do not give up!
Duncan
Dear Father Bob,
Long time, no see, but you and the good you do for others has a special place in my heart and I smile at the fond memories of our times together and your wit and insightful observations.
I am dumbfounded by the actions of the Archbishop and can’t help thinking of that great quote “there are none so blind as those who refused to see”.
How can anyone not appreciate your good work and continued efforts to help the community?
You are a shining example of everything the Catholic Church SHOULD be. And is, at its best.
Love & Light,
Frank Howson
Frank, those of us who went to the top of the mountain and saw the promised land during and after Vatican 2 can’t now(won’t now)say it was all a mirage.RJM.
Hi Father Bob, I’m sure if JC had stuck around until he was 75 no body would have asked him to retire. Since when does doing the goodwill of mankind have a retirement age? I’m glad to see you’re giving it your all to keep doing what you do best. It still amazes me that you have the energy you do but wherever you draw it from, God bless you man. If only we could all draw on from the inspirational example you set, I’d imagine the world would have a lot less problems then it does now.
Keep it up Father Bob and if comes to picket lines, I’m sure they’re be plenty of us willing to come down to South Melbourne, banner in hand and willing to take a stand, shoulder to shoulder.
Pickets, pens and paper pack more firepower than an M16.
All the best.
Denis.
I am not a Catholic, but I believe that a good man like you should not be lost. PLEASE HANG IN THERE. I listened to you on the radio tonight and to get rid of you would be a crime. You are man who is needed by the Church and also a credit to the Church.
Bob
When they are begging for you to stay, it’s time to go.
Does retiring from the parish really put an end to your other work?
Col, my “other” work needs a spiritual matrix for transparency, checks and balances.SSPP/South Melbourne has always been, and before that as a gathering place for the original owners, an “institute” of religious/spiritual technology.RJM.
Father
Can you put this more simply? It is difficult to understand.
Love you to bits Fr Bob. Keep fighting the good fight. The only reason I still have Faith is because of you.
Too easy I am sending an email to the Pope, telling him about this silly situation, it is easy to email the Pope. If they get enough emails at the Vatican….someone will start asking questions.
The Pope’s regular mailing address is:
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI
00120 Via del Pellegrino
Citta del Vaticano
The Pope’s email address (for English correspondence) is: benedictxvi@vatican.va
you the top priest I know. don’t go.
Keep up the good work and stay strong…
Heard a chap named (Fr) Ian Waters on 3LO said the canon was exhortatory and not mandatory and that you could stay, and if they wanted to get rid of you they would need evidence and due process – if he’s right it seems like another big blunder from the Archbishop’s PR minders and advisors – you should get advice from Waters, he was on Lindy Burns yesterday!Max
brilliant piece of forensic work.
I have faith in the good people Father Bob has around him, may wise heads and a kind heart defer these requirements .
A Canonical requirement that ofers resignation, has no place in the history of St Peters and Pauls church South Melbourne in my opion.
Yes father Bob will need the support of others JUST as he has always needed.
So now may father Bobs team of unsung hero’s & parish grow stronger.
Father Bob
I am now 40 and can remember the first gym you opened to help get kids of the street when you started the open family foundation.I can also remember the drug wars and the many people whom did not make it,but not to mention the many people that you have saved along the way.
Caring for people can be a thankless job so I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for your GREAT work.
Keep the great work up.
thanks for returning the favour.
Dear Fr Bob , keep on going, there’e Priest’s still running the Parish”s , and the Archbishop have not kick them off , so keep on going .
regrads
Jenny
hello , Father Bob , you are one of australias great people . to put an age on such people to stop them doing what they want is an outrage .looking forward to the day that the Archbishop turns 75 .Isnt it correct that the Pope is always the Pope doesnt matter how old he is . ? ! Cannot be sacked or asked to leave ?? !! Very hipocritical i think . The Father does more for people around him than the Pope does . i , we , wish you all of the best in your future what ever that that may be . Thanks for being you , a great human . Stephen Hill
“Laws are made for the obedience of fools and guidance of the wise” so said Plato.
So where are those 3 wise men when you need them??
Get Father Bob an apprentice or 10!! And let his good work, and his spreading of the word according to reality in context, continue long beyond his tenure at St Peter and Pauls.
You’re a legend Father Bob, and why many of us still have some faith.
I’m disturbed by the fact the Vatican retires Priests at age 75, yet Mother Theresa was allowed to do her work until she died at age 89. Shouldn’t the Church treat all of there representatives equally no matter how big or small their contribution is to the community? God bless and keep up the good fight!
If Im not mistaken Mother Theresa kinda fell out with the church “authorities” and which was why she went off and did her own good works.
Mother Mary McKillop who looks set to be the first canonised aussie saint was once excommunicated by her bishop. Kaching! Galileo was condemned by the Church and this was later withdrawn by JPII.
SO Bob, go for it….what can they o to you? Drag you out of the presbtery with the swiss guard? Hang you on the presbytery steps or even execute you in a dawn raid. I think if you stay there they will have to drag you out and make a public spectacle which DJ would not want, desire or contemplate. Check mate padre.
Fr Bob
When we were struggling your infectious generosity helped us to “subscribe” our children to the faith.
There are too few of your persona wearing the collar. They must have missed Humility 101 in the seminary whereas you were Dux.
Keep good health and keep going. I do not believe retirement can be forced upon a person – ask the Pope.
Totally agree, it is easy to get disillusioned with religion. There are too many overtly religously zealous people out and they make me back away from the church, my only refuge which draws me back is the knowledge that there are sensible people like Father Bob still within the ranks. People who do make a difference in the lives of people.
Fred we are all imperfect creatures. It is sad that sometimes the overtly religious put people off because this should not happen.
Father Bob has always done a wonderful job of showing people that Jesus loves them like that beautiful hymn “Come as you are”
I hope you don’t let our poor example deter you from continuing to journey closer to Jesus.
The Catholic faith is a beautiful thing a gift from God to be treasured. Jesus hears all prayers and all you need do is say “Dear God help me to find you ” and He will lead you gently and in His own time.
God Bless You
Certainly a foreign priest may possibly need to take the place of a retired parish priest, which is a wonderful blessing on the community as they are able to have either a parish priest or a priest. It also gives the parishioners a glimpse of the universal church. We are all equal in the eyes of God and therefore should be welcoming for our priest to come from another ethnic background and not be so one eyed!
However, I ask everyone who reads this: when was the last time you ever prayed for vocations to the priesthood or religious life? Are there any young men to take on the challenge of priesthood from your own parish? Parishes never reach maturity until they have vocations. Have there been any young men who have been encouraged to discern appropriately a possible priesthood vocation?
Let’s build our church by fostering vocations in the true image of the priesthood, not as some mere glorified social worker, and encourage real men who are willing to support and stand up for the church and be obedient to the bishop and his successors.
May the Lord of the Harvest send labourers into His harvest!
I agree with your comments, I feel real catholics should be praying for the soul of Fr Bob.
All said and done no one has a job for life, its time Bob experienced the real world.
Eva I’m sorry, but if you knew anything about Fr Bob you would know he has experienced more “real world” than most people could begin to imagine.
Have to agree totally with PH
Father Bob has seen more than his fair share of the real world which many of us are cocooned from.It can be a harsh and brutal world for many crushed by drug addiction and unemployment and many other hardships.
He has never neglected saying his daily mass and I have great faith that he will be given the grace to accept whatever comes about with serenity and courage.
Bob’s comments on this blog, particularly towards those who have criticised him are an example of his deep pastoral love and devotion to Christ. I first saw this in him 36 years ago when he first arrived at South and was sharging around in his Valiant Charger; unbelievable! Bon aint perfect but (and this will make him cringe) it has to be said he is a wonderful example of Christ for all who know and love him. Just in my life I can say quite clealry that he was responsible for restoring a nearly lost family emember to real life, married a couple of kids who have stuck together for 31 years (after their priest said they’d never last); always been there to call on when needed, can pick up a conversation with him after many years and never feel the distance, never felt judged by him but always been inspired by him ..and this is what this ervant of God has done just for this one little family…..however this plays out may it all be to the glory of God and the peace of dear Fr Bob’s soul….and for the welfare of His church……
indeed.RJM.
Fr Bob
We are facing a lonely battle with the Archdiocese ourselves. Some of us are teachers who lost their jobs over identifying priests who posed a threat to children and were not believed. Instead it was easier to say that we were dangerous and get rid of us.
Eventually, when victims came forward after the worst had happened, the priests were found guilty in a court of law but we are still persona non grata.
We lost our careers, vocations and livelihoods and have to earn to keep ourselves as best we can.
But our situation is nothing in comparison to the way victims have been treated.
I am pleased to see people coming out to support you but I wish those who are angry with the archdiocese would also look into the other terrible actions of the archdiocese and express their outrage over these things too.
Nothing is more empowering for victims than to read the outrage expressed by others but the Church ensures that they never hear it from parishioners because everything is kept so secret.
If you want to know more contact us at HEAR. If you want to express your support to victims send us an email and we will distribute them so that victims hear your outrage.
Fr Bob, good luck! If you are able, we would love to hear from you also.
Congratulations on speaking out Pam. All victims of sexual abuse are made victims again by the system of the Archdiocese of Melbourne. I urge all catholics to start investigating this situation in your parish. Ask a lot of questions.
Bob, I have no religious leanings whatsoever, but I love the work you do. You may be feeling your age, but your efforts are as strong as ever.
I respect you.
I hope that you’re able to continue for as long as you’re able and willing.
Where is Hart going to get a replacement Parish Priest? There are not enough priests to go around. On the Gold Coast where I live there are four Parishes served by two Priests. Mass attendance is about 8%.
Well I am a bedraggled refugee from the “Holy” Roman Catholic Church, now Atheist, an Ordained Minister of the First Church of Atheism (Philidelphia, USA)
I went to Xavier College when Denis Hart was there. I used to go to Solemn High Mass at St. Patricks. The Cathedral Organist was my organ teacher. I had a massive falling out with Fr. Denis Hart when he was Master of Ceremonies there.
Don’t expect any Christian sympathy from him.
Robin come home.It only takes a good confession and a return to mass.
Mary, who ever you are. Is it me, Robert you are referring to. If so then I suggest you get your eyes tested. I AM NOT ROBIN.
This is NOT a forum to make remarks about me going back to Mass. I will never do that and for your information no legal Mass has been said since Vatican II banned the Tridentine Mass.
Rev. Robert Tobin, Minister, First Church of Atheism (Philidelphia, USA)
I am sorry for spelling your name incorrectly and for having caused you offence.
I am puzzled as to how you can use and want the title of Church if you have chosen to espouse atheism which is a denial of the existence of God whereas the word church refers to a building or community of God. I am not saying this to annoy or provoke you I am just trying to understand your reasoning Robert
“Church” does not necessarily refer to religious organizations. It refers to any community of people. FCA is legal in the USA:
http://firstchurchofatheism.com/
“As a legally ordained minister, you will be able to perform weddings, funerals, commitment ceremonies, and other functions that are reserved for members of clergy.”
I don’t want to perform marriages. I just want to further the right of people not to believe in a “God”.
I am also a paid up member of the Atheist Foundation of Australia
I have studied the origin and foundation of Judeo/Christianity. The Council of Nicea had nothing to do with the bible/god. It was political. Of course the Roman Catholic Church will deny that, but they have interesting documents about it in the Vatican Library.
Father Bob, you provide inspiration to me…and best of all you never fail to make me laugh. When I was growing up you insisted on getting the message out there for the people no one was listening to. Timor, Cambodia, Rwanda, the homeless – thanks for turning me into a more compassionate being.
While I go about it a lot more quietly these days (podcasting triple j, reading articles & going to Christmas mass), I am still listening and learning.
I am glad to hear you still want to stay out there helping in the community. Can’t believe they are trying to force your retirement. It should be your choice and on your terms. Was more than happy to come down this morning to share a coffee and show our support !!
Bob, I hope you’re they’ll allow you to continue carrying that cross. Our prayers are with you and your church.
What a hyprocasy!!!!
The pope, who in reality is just an ordinary man elevated to a high place by people like Hart and Pell is allowed to stay until death.
Why why, do they want to remove you when you are doing a much more worthwhile job. What is their ulterior motive? This from a man who told a woman in distress to go to hell.
With the greatest respect to Fr Bob who is doing a noble job the Pope. To say “you are doing a much more worthwhile job” shows complete lack of knowledge.
Something that has been forgotten is the notion of obedience Phil 2″ Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
A secular priest makes a promise of obedience to his bishop. This is a significant promise and not just juridical one. Fr Bob gave this promise and should realise that no matter how big and great the work he does is, obedience to the Bishop is greater. The Bishop has not done anything sinful or asked Fr Bob to do anything sinful so there can be no objection on that front. Also, what if Fr Bob keeled over and died? Would his work come to an end? The church will outlast Fr Bob Dennis Hart and you.
Rules are good, but descression and flexibility is smarter, more mature and demostrates growth…The Catholic Church needs to look at this and be smart enough to be behind Father BO.. He is a legend that the Catholic Church (and God) needs here for as long as he can stay!!
I am not a Lawyer Father Bob, but you appear to be the victim of ageist discrimination by both your Bishop and the Catholic Church. The Age Discrimination Act of 2004.
The objects of this Act are:
(a) to eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against persons on the ground of age in the areas of work, education, access to premises, the provision of goods, services and facilities, accommodation, the disposal of land, the administration of Commonwealth laws and programs and requests for information; and
(b) to ensure, as far as practicable, that everyone has the same rights to equality before the law, regardless of age, as the rest of the community; and
(c) to allow appropriate benefits and other assistance to be given to people of a certain age, particularly younger and older persons, in recognition of their particular circumstances; and
(d) to promote recognition and acceptance within the community of the principle that people of all ages have the same fundamental rights; and
(e) to respond to demographic change by:
(i) removing barriers to older people participating in society, particularly in the workforce; and
(ii) changing negative stereotypes about older people; bearing in mind the international commitment to eliminate age discrimination reflected in the Political Declaration adopted in Madrid, Spain on 12 April 2002 by the Second World Assembly on Ageing.
Under this Act it is unlawful to discriminate on the ground of age and it is unlawful to discriminate on the ground of age in relation to work.
The act does make provision for Religious Bodies where it would conflict with “the doctrines, tenets or beliefs of that religion; or is necessary to avoid injury to the religious sensitivities of adherents of that religion.” Given that Pope John Paul II served until his death at 84, I doubt that any counter claim could be made within those provisions.
For the sake of all elderly people in Australia, please get some legal advice on your dismissal.
Bob, make a complaint under Cth discrimination law – u dont have to be employed (a line often run by churches about why they arent covered by discrimination and industrial law) as a think priest you operate under licence etc so it might be covered by other provisions of the Cth Age Discrimination Act eg qualifying bodies that refuse to renew a licence that facilitates the practice of a profession. Call the Human Rights Commission on 1300656419 and set a good example for mature age workers to fight back!!!
John, I think you will find the Archdiocese will hide behind the same “law” they use for victims of clergy sexual abuse – “we are not of this world” and therefore do not come under the laws of the State. The Church denies any responsibility to anyone except themselves. So, good luck Father Bob on this fight.
Gay and Lesbians interested in supporting Fr Bob, please assemble o/s St Pats next sunday at 11am for protest.
Please bring posters.. ie
Hart is a fart
Hart has no heart
Hart is heartless
Power to Fr Bob
any other suggestions???
A more respectful attitude for a start.
Have you asked Father Bob if he would want you to do this?
with supporters like that who needs an enemy? RESPECT is one of Bob’s favourite words, and yes I know he’s got a bit of work to do on that score too, but he has NEVER been a man for cheap points, such proposed actions towards the Archbishop are disgraceful.
free country but won’t help me and mine.RJM.
Father Bob you are doing a bit of a Pontious Pilate here. If you don’t want people to take this action then you should gently tell them so.
This protest will be water off a Harts back. He doesn’t care what you think. He will be sitting behind his shiny desk and his mignons will be running around like chooks with no heads fending off the media.
Maybe a positive campaign might be more effective, one that praises Fr Bob. If you ignore the bishop he will probably be far more annoyed than if you bag him. Just a thought.
Any opportunity to protest… please. You have no real interest in the Church, and the closest you get to a church is waving placard on the steps of St Patrick’s.
Stick with it father bob the narrow mindness of your boss would stop women from getting into the church, they don’t just make scones & tea anymore … Neither should a spritly Man of the cloth move on from what is a great job done to help the community.
The “Boss” who decided there should be no women priests is God take your grievance to Him.
If God changes His mind He will let us know and until that day comes He knows what He is about Trust Him
Sorry Mary, You should read the history of the Popes. It was the men of the church who decided there should be no women ordained not “God”.
Women ran the church when all the men went to the crusades and then typically selfish, they all wanted it back again when they came back.
Read the gospel Barbara.Our Blessed Lady was not at the Last Supper. If Jesus had wanted us to be women priests She who was without sin would surely have been the first.It goes against common sense.Our Blessed Mother said at Cana “Do as He tells you” Representing Christ as His Rock we have Benedict. If at some stage Jesus changes his mind and wants women priests He will let us know Until that time we all have plenty of work to keep us occupied.
Australians don’t go to church, anyway; why should this matter to anybody? It’s not like these are the 50s.
the loss of jobs at Brooklyn is more important.RJM.
Please get over yourself:”The rich Catholic neo-cons”??
Do you seriously feel persecuted? As if you’re going to starve or lose a limb or get your teeth bashed out?
Please. You’re old. Enjoy it.
As if there’s even a god to begin with.
The only thing more tediously predictable than pre-Vatican II catholics is post-Vatican II catholics.
Brad there is a God who loves you and believes in you even if you don’t believe in Him.
yes.sense of proportion needed.RJM.
A troll is still a troll by any other name.
Do you think you’re displeasing Satan, Father Bob? Because that’s what you’re meant to be doing as a true Catholic Priest.
Stop trying to have your cake and eat it too.
If you don’t like the Roman Catholic church, have the decency to get out and join one of the other thousands of protestant groups. Or wake up and repent before it’s too late.
Instead of judging Father Bob why not pray for him?
Saint Francis prayer does say sometimes you must fight for what is right but you also need wisdom to discern when that is what is required and when you should accept serenely what plays out.
Why do you presume that I am not praying for Father Maguire’s whole situation, or that I have not prayed to be Spirit led in my response?
Actually I have and will continue to pray about this as my first Catholic duty.
Speaking out and praying aren’t mutually exclusive.
And we also need to pray for all the poor souls who have been given wrong information regarding Catholic teaching by him, being told that divorce is ok, certain forbidden practices are ok, etc. etc. etc. etc. “Better for a millstone …….”
Too many modernist Catholics use this “don’t judge” line in an attempt to silence any legitimate criticism.
It’s an insult to people’s intelligence apart from anything else.
If they’d been there when Jesus called the Pharisees a “Nest of vipers” they probably would have said the same to Him.
No we’ve been silent for far too long. Enough is enough.
We’ve had a gutful of Father Maguire’s endless belittling of and scoffing at the Pope and the Church’s rituals and teachings on everything on Safran’s show and at every other available opportunity, for far too long.
Effectively what he’s saying over and over again is Don’t listen to the Church, listen to me, I know best, I know better. What supreme arrogance.
On the one hand giving bread to the poor and on the other giving toxic advice about the Church and the teachings he purports to represent. Is this what he calls charity.
And as you’ve mentioned St. Francis, that’s another thing I and others abhor,the way we’ve heard him laugh about cruelty to God’s innocent helpless creatures on Safran. Not defending them, nor putting on record that he’s against this. No. Absolutely sickening.
And what decent priest takes God’s name in vain saying Godamn this and Godamn that as he’s frequently done on Safran’s show.
Enough is enough is enough.
You are right to rebuke me for my assumption. I am glad you are praying in regard to this issue. It is good of you because it is obvious that Father Bob has aggravated you and in your eyes been betraying the Church and/or undermining it. In such a circumstance your prayers are heroic because Jeasus did say even the pagans love those they like but you must love your ennemies.
Please accept my apoogy for my false assumption and let us unite in prayer so that what is best for Father’s spiritual growth and the spiritual welfare of the parish takes place
God Bless you and keep you in His Love
thanks for the suggestion.RJM.
father bob – i met him in 1973 as a marcellin college schoolboy no member of the clergy has ever had my respect or affection like bob.In 1992 he officiated at my wedding most of my mates thought i had hired a comedian. Since then i have called in to see him at his church from time to time.I feel lucky to have been his friend for nearly 40 years.
Steve, thanks for today’s visit.RJM.
Dear Fr Bob hopefully the
Holy Spirit will prevail in spite of human fallibility. Wouldnt miss your program with Safran even though im 72. My wife and i are “practicing” Catholics who stay in spite of the hierarchy who think they are the church.
When Jesus knew he had to leave, his followers asked him to stay and wondered if they had the strength to continue his work. Jesus knew that they could continue his work with the support of the Holy Spirit. Rather than get cranky at the Church leaders, maybe people could put their energy into carrying out some of the work that a 75 year old man is capable of doing and lessen his load. Jesus’ succession plan was the Holy Spirit.
Nicely expressed Ben! I’m not so sure that demonstrations are of much value here, sure the people need to “vent” and be heard by the churchocrats. Perhaps the best way for all of this to be sorted is to appoint Bob as “Pastor Emeritus” or whatever the RCs call a semi retired priest; all HQ would have to do then is find a suitable and able user-friendly assistant….hmmm now if thats hard for the men in charge to find I could volunteer but I’m already taken elsewhere…….seriously folks those of us who know and love Bob should make that known to him, HQ and the local colony of God’s people in SOuth Melbourne. All I know is I feel so sad that the church echoes the world and doesnot seem to recognise a unique soul in their midst and act accordingly……blessinsg on you Bob, blessings on the locals and Big blessings on the Archbishop too……….
That makes a world of sense Ben. If we really do want to make a change why don’t we step up our game and make a difference in our communities like Bob has.
Maybe this is the shove we need to get off our chairs and out onto the streets. The only reason the St Vincent de Paul society exists is because an atheist challenged Ozanam to ask what Catholics in his day were doing to help the poor.
Bottom line is that Bob is getting old, if not his Birthday, one of these days he is bound to step down as PP of Sts Peter and Paul. It must be pretty tedious for him as a 75 yr old to be still carrying out his duties (despite his willingness). It is possibly a call for us, the next generation of “bleeding hearts” to step up.
dear fr Bob as always the church is so out if touch with the communuty, it still trys to hide the rock spiders within and unload the most decent people like you.
tell them to go to buggery and stick with it as long as you feel your able
john Smyth
Briagolong
Father Bob
I have to say it’s quite disgraceful that you are being forced into retirement, particularly as you’ve always been what religion should be about “integrity” have have brought a much needed human face to Catholicism.
Yes, this is all a real mess and shows up how the hierarchy seems to operate. You give 40-50 years of your life serving people and then the head master comes at 20 minutes notice to tell you have to leave in a month. Where is the love, the charity St Paul spoke of? Where is the decency, the plain good manners? Even a landlord gives 3-6 months notice. But to be told you have to go when you are fit, strong, still able to serve and give to people – the rules are a mess. Canon law? Oh dear, did Jesus have canon law when he preached the gospel of love? No, it has become a weapon that ought be challenged.
Bob, you are a wonder like Tutu, Mother Teresa, Vanier. Do the sadhus of india have to resign? No, nor should the sadhu of Sts Peter and Paul.
Twenty minutes? The Archbsishop gave him notice 9 months ago. Not to mention that the current Code of Canon Law was promulgated 26 years ago!
I can understand Fr Bob’s distress at having to move from his current appointment. But the moral indignation of the rest of you is a bit much, probably even for him. It’s not like Fr Bob is going to be euthanised. He has to retire from his *parish* not from the priesthood.
Yes but he has been there a very long time and has a much loved dog.
I pray that the Holy Spirit will help Archbishop Hart and Father Bob work out what is best for the spiritual growth of all involved
You’re a credit to this discussion forum Mary. I’ll try to post in future with some of the graciousness you employ.
)
So if the bishop gave him notice 9 months earlier, why did he turn up on the doorstep with the letter to resign vacate within a month? oes this not look like a late, low and nasty visit set to bring about a confrontation with a priest in good standing, a lifetime of selfless service and ministry. The 9 months thing was advice to all who turn 75 this year, but to get a 20minute notice for a visit looks very suspicious to me and probably 95% of those who heard what happened. Oh, and when was the last time DJ Hart went to see Fr Bob, have a chat and a meal and just talk to him as a father-bishop? That I would like to know.
Fr Bob is a wonderful priest and human being we need more like him, I think it is absolutely ridiculous that the Catholic church is asking him to leave. We have a shortage of Catholic priests in Australia, so where is the wisdom in forcing a dedicated, active priest to resign? Good luck Fr Bob you are a real inspiration.
Greetings from the OF COURSE, I COULD BE WRONG… gang, good father. Be assured that you are in our prayers.
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May he protect you from your enemy and cause his feet to tread in dog poo just before being introduced to the pope.
As an ex -Catholic I watch in amazement as the leaders in the Church protect the abusers but refuse support for the genuinely good clergy in the Church.
Bob Maguire is closer to what the Church should be about than any of his superiors.
History will judge the current arrogant leadership harshly-many of us have already made our decision about the validity and piety of these Cardinals and Bishops-it looks a little like the fall of the Roman Empire to me!
Father Bob,
I’m a seriously and long lapsed catholic, but you’ve caught my attention a while back and you do a fantastic job. I think what’s behind this is that the Catholic Church can’t quite come to grips with what you do and how you do it.
I will predict that the Church will have to back down. Your parishioners and the wider public won’t stand for such bully boy tactics.
Kerrie
Come home Kerrie-all you need do is make a good confession and return to mass
Yes, you are quite right. Let the catholics stop hiding under rocks and come out in support of the “good” priests. Where are all the “good” priests? Why are you not speaking out against those who have comitted the most atrocious crimes against our children?
Stop protecting your peers. People will think 10000% of you if you speak out. What will your Maker think on you on day of judgement?
Come Home Marcia. It only takes a good confession and returning to the mass to reconnect.
Father Bob
There are certain institutions that should remain as they are
You are one such institution
There are other institutions that need to move and change with the times- our local catholic church is one such institution
Have courage Fr Bob
TAXMAN
Father Bob is not an institution but a human being with all that that entails.
how true.RJM.
Father bob is an institution Bbecause of his unique character
if we could produce him in a factory ,we could export him to the world
TAXMAN
Once upon a time there lived a man whose sought adulation. And it was duly granted by the masses. And so a legend grew. Fanned by past glories his heart grew ever greedier and more fearful of what life lay beyond the adulation. If only the masses knew what his heart did and felt the fear he did. Oh what a tangled web we weave.
Let me guess. You’re not discussing Jesus here are you?
No sane person seeks adulation because it means you sell your life, your privacy and all that you hold dear- for attention. You become a target for those who envy you and seek to bring you down, for many reasons, none of them good. Human beings are fallible; it’s the degree to which you resist fallibility and concentrate on serving those who need you- whatever the cost to yourself- that makes you stand out from everyone else. Me, I find it easier to give in secret; it means that I don’t get to become a target.
However, what that means is that people like me depend on people like Father Bob to actually get out there and be seen helping the people in need- despite all the slings and arrows he gets thrown at him.
So my question is this… if Father Bob with all his irascibility, bluntness and failings is forced to resign- who is going to bring people back to the Church as he does and restore people’s faith in God? Who is going to feed those in need- the people the rest of us would rather not acknowledge? You?
Some people like attention- cool. Christ rode on a donkey through crowds of cheering, palm waving supporters, gave unforgettable sermons to thousands and died on a cross. An outsider (and let’s face it, where Christ is concerned we all are outsiders) might say He sought adulation. Well, if He did, He sure paid a high price for it.
Perhaps you ought to think about where you’d be right now if he hadn’t attracted all that attention and ask yourself- who benefited the most? You or Him?
David,
I’m gobsmacked by this piece of clarity amidst the insanity of this episode.
John Warton
Thanks for that John. Members of my family rolled their eyes at it.
So I guess opinions differ. As they should.
No, I am not referring to Jesus. Your response is weird.
Ok let me make it as clear as I can.
There are a large number of vulnerable people who rely on Father Bob and others like him. Some of them are materially vulnerable, some spiritually vulnerable and some both. Jesus made it very clear (Matthew 25:31-46) that our treatment of them is our treatment of Him.
Therefore,no matter what, the people who need Father Bob should be the primary concern of us all. Who is going to take them over and care for them in a way that allows them to experience the love of God? Are you going to? I certainly don’t have that kind of strength.
The second thing is that there are a lot of views in this blog which do no justice to the people who write them. Most of those opinions seem to be based on a view that Father Bob sought attention for his adulation and not the glory of God. That his desire to remain in the parish is not the outcome of the need to support those in need but the result of self seeking behaviour.
As Mary rightly points out -”Only Jesus knows our hearts and mind”.
However the reality is this- Father Bob brings people back to their faith, feeds the needy and is a source of hope for those left behind by society. I respect him for his actions and support his desire to continue those actions.
I’ll leave the heart and mind bit to Jesus to judge.
Does that de-wierdify my response?
Not really. It’s a free country, relatively speaking, so feel free to believe in what you want.
few replies have been as succinct.
if I am not mistaken Bob himself has ramped up efforts in the last 2 years to find more troops to carry on the flag as he anticipated his imminent departure.
Problem is these days most people perceive charity as monetary donations (I was guilty of this too), thrown some money in the hat and pray the problem goes away… Unfortunately the world does not work like that. Not that any charitable organisation is ungrateful for donations or that I am in any way cynical of donors. Perhaps its because we think that is the only way we are capable of helping, which is contrary to the truth.
Only Jesus knows our heart and mind.
Join the group on facebook!!! Show your support to Fr Bob on facebook by joining the following group! it is called “Leave Father Bob Maguire alone!”
i hear you my dear father. and i have heard the news that your BIG boss asked you to resign.
i used to watch the program with your jewish co host, and you have done petty well on it.
if you love to continue to be as a father, weell, why not? if you can still dance well, i rest my case on it.
i believe that you did a great deal of deeds for past 40 years.
any ways, best of luck with wishful work to continue with your work.
alex
ps: i am greek orthodox and i think YOUR BIG BOSS NEEDS TO SEE YOU IN YOUR HEART NOT YOUR LOOKS OR AGE. that is all.
Keep resisting those moneyed characters, Bob. It isn’t as if they’ve got a decent replacement waiting in the wings.
We have a similar problem in Adelaide where moneyed people are turning homeless day centres in government surveillance centres. The financial crowd are replacing church people, including nuns, with high maintenance, high salary “professionals”. It’s the age-old problem of money values versus human values.
Good people like you must stay in your position and continue helping us who live outside.
Norm
PS: Be careful who offers you sweet drinks, Bob
Fr Bob. All the best for this time of “unrest”. I hope it runs it’s course quickly and with the best result for you (that you stay doing the work you love and are so valued for) and for your parishoners. We know you won’t disappear. Much love and respect. James
I sincerely hope and pray that this situation is settled amiably and to the satisfaction of both parties.At least in the Catholic Archdiocese Of Melboune the current retirement age is 75 years.Here,in the Catholic diocese of Rockhampton the normal retirement age for priests is 70 years.
Dear Father Bob,
My support goes out to you at this time, as some Catholic apparatchik tries to oust you into retirement.
What an insult, after a life of service!
While being something of an Agnostic myself, you strike me as a True Priest; a compassionate and caring man in contact with the authentic teachings of Christ. I have enjoyed meeting you yearly on your show with John Safran. You are always an interested and interesting chap, and open to all walks of life. You seem to care little for Dogma! Much like the man who founded the Catholic Church, and died on Calvary.
I think your work has presented a positive, hopeful and constructive view of Catholicism, as being a faith of relevance to old and young people alike. And after so much bad press, you think the Catholic Church might appreciate that. Rather than force you to retire, they should promote you!
If there is such a thing, you are a great soul. If I was ever to become religious you would be one of the first persons I would call on for advice, if you would give it to me…
If there is anything I, or my festival, can do to help you in this difficult time don’t hesitate to ask.
Best Regards
Richard Wolstencroft
Director – Melbourne Underground Film Festival
This comment by Richard, a self-confessed agnostic, says it all..Jesus said He didn’t come to call the Righteous (and especially not the Self-Righteous) I’ll use the old fashioned Catholic language and say, Fr. Bob has brought more souls to Christ than he will ever know, in this life or the next..Long live Human Solidarity, or as Fr. Bob says, NOT US AND THEM BUT WE…We are all in this together, whether we call ourselves ‘religious’ or not!
I am sure Father Bob would appreciate your warm offer of support but I think you are under a misapprehension when you say
“You seem to care little for Dogma! Much like the man who founded the Catholic Church, and died on Calvary.”
A Jesus was not merely a man but the Son of God.He did care about “dogma” When asked what people should do He said they should continue to obey the 10 commanments and “To love one another as I have loved you.”
He asked his 12 apostles to continue to spread the “Good news” to all nations.
What does this have to do with the Catholic Church? It has continued down through the ages from those initial 12 to spread Christ’s teaching.
Knowing our human weaknesses Jesus built in a safeguard to make sure the Church preserved His Truth by sending the Holy Spirit to guide and protect Mother Church.
Despite all the wounds we inflict on the Church by our own sinfulness She continues and will always continue in spite of us.
Mary, Catholics use the Church as a crutch. Investigate the money, property, the abuse of power within the organisation and you may take those blinkers off your eyes. There may have been a prophet called Jesus but that is all he was. The only belief we have is within ourselves to do good to other and to ourselves. If we do that then the world will be right. We do not need organised religions.
Deborah Jesus was either the Son of God as He claimed to be or else an absolute fraud.
I am betting on the former
Fr Bob, Take comfort from Mark Chapter 6 Verse 4. All the best in your dealings with head office.
Father Bob – A similar situation happened in Brisbane earlier this year with St Mary’s South Brisbane and Peter Kennedy. It seems that the magisterium can’t cope with those who really do live Jesus’s message! Please don’t retire – Peter Kennedy hasn’t and St Mary’s Community (in exile) lives on!
The Parish Priest at St.Agnes, Highett is 79 and hasn’t been told to retire (more’s the pity). Could it be that the value of the land his church is on is not as appealing as South Melbourne?
Father Bob, You have to stay , you are the hope for Decent people rich or Poor, I remember when you even came to a Country Town quite a few years ago to Read the Sermon for a Vietnam vets Funeral.. Why does the Executive do Damage to the church they did the same with a Priest in Queensland whose church was packed every week. Bob your my Hero mate hang in there we love you, Glenn in the Wimmera
Fr Bob
Remember the saying about “he who throws stones in glass houses”?
Be careful.
What do you mean Glen?
Hi Fr Bob,
Never heard of you until I saw your name on the ABC and The Age newssites and did some quick research. I’m a Perth boy living in New York so indulge my ignorance.
Man your Archbisop is a bit daft. I think his mitre may be a bit tight or he’s been sniffing the incense a wee bit too much.
You’re one of the best marketing tools the Catholic Church has to draw awareness and understanding of our religion especially to the youth, particularly important in a society which still mistakenly thinks we worship statues and think we worship the Virgin Mary as a God.
Heck you even have a radio program at an ALTERNATIVE radio station I cant exactly see most priests let alone archbishops or cardinals doing that.
I remember seeing Pope John Paul 2 live, old frail at Tor Vergatta in World Youth Day….he was shuffling couldnt even clap, could only tap his hand on his armrest….but man how the youth loved him. (Not that I’m saying your in that capacity)
Age has no relevance in being a religious leader!
Pax
absolutely brilliant – I love that and agree totally with the sentiment.
Age has no relevance in being a religious leader.
In fact, the older you are, the better the teacher, the wisdom, the holiness after many years of living. Look at John XXIII, M Teresa, Dalai Lama, the great monks of the desert.
What to do, get rid of their wisdom, their spiritual youth – no.
Fr Bob, go on and on until the Lord, the Great Master, calls you to himself. Till then, run the race.
Fight it Bob!
If you are still willing and able to work I don’t think you should be given the boot! Particularly after all your good work and contributions. You married my mum and father in law and did a great job (2nd marriages for both and they are still happy!).
This is the kind of Catholic church nonsense that made me a lapsed catholic!! They are obviously pulling out the rug because you don’t toe the line.
PEOPLE POWER WILL DEFEAT ‘EM!
IS THERE A RALLY ON TOMORROW AM AT YOUR CHURCH? I heard there was on breakfast TV. PUT IT UP ON THE BLOG FRONT PAGE
Come Home Megan.All it takes is a good confession and returning to mass
Why not retire, then apply for the job as Pope – apparently you’re still young enough for that.
Dear Father
I know you are a true priest close to Jesus and you follow in Christ’s footsteps.
As an army chaplain you understand discipline.
You have cared for the homeless for many years.In a strange way if nothing alters you will share in their “Homelessness” in an emotional and spiritual way even more.
I pray for you and the Archbishop to the Holy Spirit that neither your will nor the Archbishop’s nor the anonymous irritated “Knight” whose feathers you ruffled but God’s will prevail in this scenario.
God bless you Father for your fidelity to Christ throughout you life and for your unfailing love for the least of his children.
The Holy Spirit will place you where you are meant to be. Trust in the Trinity. God will not fail you
Dear Father BOB I watched you on the today show this morning. I think you are a wonderful priest and you should keep your church. Over the years i have been disappointed with the acitons of some catholic priests who are now teaching us, only if you show the $$$ sign to them.. That is not how God taught us. You however are the best and have the old beliefs… I give you my full support and yes you are right.. Our Pope is 82 years he should be in a retirement home… Archbishop has double standards as the pope is really past his expiry age of 75. You should be OUR POPE INSTEAD. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND KEPP UP WITH YOUR GOOD CHRISTIAN VALUES… STRONGLY WE SUPPORT YOU KIND REGARDS CATHOLIC DEVOTER.. MONICA LEWIS XOXOX GOD BLESS YOU
I agree Father Bob is a wonderful priest but it is not his church or any one’s church. It is God’s church.
Shame on the Archdiocese of Melbourne that it would remove this great priest while protecting not only the physical pediphiles but also the the spiritual pediphiles.
By this I mean those priests who would teach children universal salvation, deny that adultery, fornication and homosexuality are grave moral evils that place souls in danger, propagate moral subjectivism, deny the social kingship of Christ, and also deny the the divinity and resurection of Christ. These spiritual pediphiles are far worse than physical pediphiles as they damage the eternal welfare of souls.
May the lord give you strength Father, to face this trial with the courage, fortitude and holiness of St. Thomas More and St. John Vianney.
Yes in this Year of the Priest it is vital to pray for all our priests.
Dear Fr Bob,
What makes you different than every other priest? You are not being asked to retire from the priesthood but to relinquish the pastoral oversight of the Parish of South Melbourne because you have reached 75 years of age. You are the longest serving priest in one place in Melbourne, don’t you think that the people of South Melbourne deserve a fresh pair of hands now. You have your admirers and your detractors. like most. So after so long in one place don’t you think it’s time to let someone else have a go of continuing the priestly work there.
Or are you given to narcissism? One wonders who you are promoting and proclaiming: Jesus Christ, the Son of God or Fr Bob Maguire! Read your blog and other sites: FR Bob this and Fr Bob that, etc!!! It really is time you stepped back and examined your motives. Also the finances of the parish of South Melbourne may improve once your regular wothdrawls from the ATM cease, if you get my drift. Also your rather tawdry involvement in the false allegations against + G Pell are not forgotten. Time for some prayer, thought and reparation now!
Tom, thanks.RJM.
Hello Bob,
As a desparing catholic, this is very sad news. You represent true community spirit, which is sadly lacking in many churches. As I child and adult I went to thousands of services and to have the supposed “spiritual” leader of our church get up and spout meaningless dribble for years was appalling and joke worthy. Stand up for your rights – resist these people who want to silence you and stand with your community who obviously love and support you. You know its the right thing to do and you wont let yourself do anything else anyway.
Regards,
Matt
What a load of crap. sooner you leeve the beter. you hippocrypt. we in south know about u and costa and all of the dosh you give him over others. the truth will cum out
who r u directing that to
Vic, thanks.RJM.
Troll alert – please disregard irrelevant comment from Vic Sapper.
You are so wrong. Vic is on the money.
Vic, I have known father Bob for 37 years, now a parent/father i too am guilty of allocating my time / resources to the child with the greatest need. I care and want the best for all my children,
Bob, continue to help the needy you have our full support.
Constantinos @ Jennie
Father Bob, the Church it is not belong to the Bishop or the Vatican. It is belong to the people.
Please stay there looking after the people that need you and love you.
Whilst I cannot stand the style of “Bishoping”, that is, walk in and throw out, if you are a company man, why didn’t you tender your resignation as per canon law? I actually think the Canon Law on this one sucks, B16 is well past 75 and he manages to keep punching on I don’t think South Melbourne Parish is nearly as big a chore. Keep up the good work Fr Bob, I am probably what you call an evil neo-con but I still respect the work you do in the community.
I was raised in the Catholic faith & attended a Catholic primary school next door to the church. We used to have a Priest that was 90…unlike father Bob..he did not have clear speech, he ummed & ahhed all the way through his sermons with an Irish accent, was made a monseniour & eventually retired far too late in the game. So this is all rubbish that someone so alive & active for God could be “threatened” with retirement. Amazing how the church defends the pedifiles in the church, hiding them & transferring them…LET FATHER BOB DO HIS JOB THAT HE DOES SO WELL….& GET RID OF SOME OF THE
MISGUIDED ONES THE CHURCH IS DEFENDING…WHAT A CRAZY WORLD WE LIVE IN…The Church is supposed to lead the way…not hinder those working for the common good & showing what Christ is all about.
For God’s sake & the sake of His Kingdom…get it right…it’s about time they knew what the bible teaches…instead of the bureaucratic man made bull that they profess & live by.
Hello Fr Bob to your admirers and not so admirers. Years ago I cycled from Perth across the Nullabor and after going from Sydney to Melbourne I met you and a Jesuit Br McDonald. You offered me hospitality and companionship riding around early in the mornings, St Kilda and through the beautiful botanical gardens. We had great discussions and then breakfast with the local street people mostly street addicts in your kitchen. I hope your still riding around on your bike and this change that is coming is not so traumatic for all concerned for those who will grieve for your loss and those who want you gone. You have been and still are a great soldier for the hearts and minds of lots of people not just in Melbourne or Victoria. I’m coming over in October so I hope to say hello again. Take care John
***Mass demonstration in support for Fr Bob at St Patrick’s Cathedral Sunday 11am 13/09/09**
I have organised a protest in support of Fr Bob, please all supporters show him how much we love him and attend.
We will confront Bishop Hart and demand answers.
Jim
hey jim could u please tell me where and when mate i would appreciate it we need to show father bob as uch support as possible my band is on his show this sunday on triple j so please listen in if possible mate
Jim, it’s a free country but sweet reason should be driving this process.RJM.
Confront and demand?
Yes that is being an instrument of peace all right.Far better to make a novena to the Holy Spirit so that what God wants to happen prevails.
I will be at St peter and Pauls South Melbourne, with my fellow parishoners getting spiritual ‘food’ from Bob and sharing a convivial cuppa with all and sundry…..as usual. I ask the holy Spirit ( though Bob’s beautiful image of the pigeon living among us is very powerful to me) to help us all at st peter and pauls where despite all our plans God’s plan will be adopted.
They don’t force the Pope to retire at 75, that would be too young for a Pope to even be employed.
This and the shenanigans up in Queensland with the ex-communicated priest, any wonder the church is having trouble retaining people, don’t they want people to come back?
Tim, I agree with the first statement. Yet as to your second, the church is not a place you get together to do whatever you like, whenever you like, however you like. The church has something to offer and to give and people can choose to follow or to refuse. It’s not a company that constantly changes it’s products to capture a market audience. I left the modern church because it was offering me nothing I couldn’t get in the secular world. If I wanted to hear just messages on tolerance and social justice I could have gone to world vision. If I wanted crappy music I could have listened to Triple J. What I wanted was to hear the message of redemption and salvation. I’ve come to realise that the Church is not about what “I” want but rather what Christ wants. The fact is most people posting on this board as to the reason they don’t go to church is based on selfish reasons. I’ve returned to Church and found beauty that cannot be found elsewhere.From being fulfilled in it’s liturgies and teachings I feel stronger to be able to engage the community get involved in works of Social Justice etc.
Hey john I am a 22 year old man that was into the justice program when I was 16 for being on a probation order on a serious assault. I had a serious drug addiction at the time and had lost a grandfather that was more like a father to me and I was leading my life into a hole, no matter what anybody said 2 me I just didn’t listen I was offered to be put into a music program called LIVING MUSIC I took up the offer at the time and it lead me to bigger and better things. I meet father bob through it and he was the first man to give us a music crowd and funnier enough it was on Christmas Eve mass. We performed a rap song that night that is about asking god 4 help in your hardest times of need, the song is pretty dark, deep and meaningful now I’m sure actually I am sure that another priest or let alone a church would never let such a song be performed in a church,ecspecially rap. what we need is more people like father bob and priest, that are more open minded and not so serious,yeah fair enough they do the good lords work but that’s about it, father bob has never held back from the truth of what he believes and has done so much more for our society than any other priest I know so god bless him and let’s hope that the people of Australia can get behind him and show their support to keep him in the church and all the good deeds he continues to do cheers Jayden
To John Smith
The Church is not about what “I” want…
He uses “I’ eleven times including “What I wanted”
good pick up F Mulchay. You will notice the early part of the response hardly uses “I” and the second part uses it excessively. It highlights how the I is a departure from the “we” that the church is. It was intentional.
Jayden, agreed on Fr Bob a true legend.
Father Bob,
Iam appalled at the way you are being treated. As a Catholic, if I lived closer to your church, I would return to the church after 50yrs, to be able to beleive in your way of life. It is a pity a lot of other church leaders didn’t get out into the real world, like you have always done and given enormous help to people who really need it.Keep up the good work, and I’m sure that the whole of Melbourne are 100% behind you.
Graeme.
Come home .Jesus is waiting for you. All it takes is a good confession and a return to the mass.
Father Bob, you claim to be a senior field soldier then insinuating your superiors are corrupt? “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely”.
It seems obvious you represent yourself and hold the hierarchy in contempt. Don’t despair though, you have that many followers you can start your own protestant church.
Peter, thanks.RJM.
Father what does RJM mean?
The Code of Canon Law (538:3 – 7) states, ‘When a pastor reaches 75 years of age he is asked to submit his resignation to the bishop who, after considering all the circumastances of person and place, will decide whether to accept or defer the resignation.’
It’s quite obvious that in these circumstances, Archbishop Hart should defer the resignation. In fact, he should have said that was the course of action he was taking beforehand, via a courtesy call.
I’m sure common sense will eventually prevail, but the Archbishop could have avoided all of this.
Just because you retire from your job as the leader of your parish doesn’t mean you stop being a Father, stop working in the community, stop being involved with Safran, etc.
I’m not Catholic, but I know an old pastor in his 70′s who “retired”, but still has a VERY active role in the church and is about to go overseas on a mission trip to Africa!
One door closes, another opens …
I bet Fr Bob is enjoying every moment and glued to 3aw with smiles all over.
Publicity sometimes comes very cheap
Shaun, thanks.RJM.
Don’t go, Father Bob. You’re a legend, mate. Why on earth would anyone try and kick you out of a job you do really well working with people who love you?
Basically the Archbishop is saying “Serve us all your life, and we’ll reward you by kicking you out and putting you in a retirement home when we’ve had enough of you”.
How old have some of the popes been for goodness sake?
If the Archbishop wants you to go, that’s his problem.
Stick it out, Bob. What would Moses, Abraham or Elijah have done? (their later years were their best years – all of them). I’ll betcha none of them would have meekly tugged the forelock and done what they were told.
God’s on your side. So are we.
I wish I lived in Melbourne because if I did I would return to church services.
You represent what priests should be like to relate to kids & adults of modern culture.
I wish you all the best.
Hi Father Bob
A note of support to you. My Mum Elsie had a very high opinion of you and your works.Why would you need to retire- resign if you are still capable of doing the work you do so well? In this time of a shortage of priests, it seems a rather foolish thing to do.
I pray that the people in your parish will have some influence on your currrent circumstances. I also pray that the Church will have some common sense.
I know Elsie will be up there batting for you!
I first heard you on Sunday Night Safran. And now I have found your Blog via an ABC news article.
I’m not a Catholic… well, for that matter I am no longer a Christian, but I can tell you, listening to you and John Safran (a Jew and a Catholic Priest) on the radio, was joy to the spirit!
By the way, God would be a fair age, wouldn’t he, do you suppose the good Archbishop will ask for His resignation any time soon?
God bless you Father Bob.
Well Father Bob,
Out of evil comes good (even if not enough good for so much evil- so to speak)
As a result of you going public with your situation and me wanting to leave you a message of support on your blog site, I found the PayPal periodical deduction and signed up. You have my admiration and respect and I reckon backing it up with a bit of material support won’t go astray either. God moves in mysterious ways they say (even for an aetheist) and they may well be right. Hope it cheers your day a bit
Dear Father Bob,
This is seriously rediculous!
You bring people faith and hope, more so than the catholic church alone can do. It is sad that they aren’t aware of the many people who look up to you for love and guidance. What is worse is that they are insulting you and all that you have done.
We are disheartened by their silly actions and want you to know that over the years, you have been the ideal father for us and our family.
We know that you will be looked after by a higher power, far beyond the church and their decisions.
I’m sure your boss will still find a use for you no matter what middle management decides
Chin up, old boy, the best is yet to come!
I feel sorry for Bishop Hart who has to hear so much nonsense and insults against himself and the catholic church, undoubtedly the devil is alive and well amongst some clergy.
I wonder how many people who support Bob are church goers or just stirrers.
The Bishop was just giving Bob options and not a ultimatum. True to form Fr Bob has seen a chance to fuel his own agenda has claimed injustice. If he was employed by a private organisation he would be sacked on the spot.
Sorry Bob, you are a disgrace.
The Archbishop, as a leader of the largest diocese in Australia, should foster someone who done so much for the Church. What some people don’t relise is that this is just another example of Archbishop Pontius Pilot and ceo-nons like yourself (who have no idea of how Church politics works) fall weak and remove anyone who challanges themselves towards Jesus’ Mission. Scary, isn’t it Mike!
The best antidote to human “politics” is more prayer It should always be our first port of call in any situation.Aquit sign of the cross and asking the Holy Spirit to guide us can stop us become confused in our thinking.It is very easy to become lost and bamboozled in the din of the worldWe must b salt and lightWe must be in this world but not of itIn the darkness of evil we must be the light that gives hope and warmth.
Maximillan Kolbe transformed a starvation pit of harrowing cries and utter despair to a “church” with hymns to God.
Prayer is the answer to human politicesWe should all be praying for Father Bob and the Archbishop
Good call Mick. This forum has become a “hate fest” directed to the Catholic Church. How does Fr Bob reconcile that with his priestly vows?
truth teller, the truth will set us free.RJM.
Anyone who has to use that name obviously has something to hide. It sounds like the old “Truth” newspaper of the 1960′s. Spit it out or go away.
I would suggest you find out exactly what is going on the Melbourne Archdiocese.
he was given an ultimatum-October 28 leave, not just a request and ‘we’ll see’
who’d have thought the pharisees and saducees would still abound after 2000 years!!!
The archbishop has committed the religious equivalent of kicking a koala! If he has rocked up to South Melbourne on only twenty minutes notice to offer this 75th birthday greeting to Bob with no agenda beyond that warning, then that, in my opinion is workplace bullying. Bob Maguire is a champion is the tru-est sense… champion of people on the margin, a man whose eye always sees the act of kindness in the ordinary… a great encourager of all people of good will.
Bob Maguire – the Jennings family is with you – despite the fact that you follow the pies.
Mate this is the first submission I’ve ever made to online forums. I am a non-practicing protestant however believe’s that your ability to be open, aware and so incredibly inspiring to all people, proves to everyone how influential and positive a church can be. I am very wary of large powerful institutions (ie the Catholic Church) and rarely attend church services. However still being unsure of where my true beliefs lie, Father Bob, generally through triple j and media articles has rekindled the awe I had of the christian church when I was young. The way Father Bob can cross generations (even though he’s an old bugger- with all due respect) is a testamant to his amazing way of dealing with and communicating the longheld values of Catholicsm but also getting me (who usually cannot understand or put into todays context what the churches purpose may be) to write something. I really believe my newfound (after listening to Bob the last few years) relationship and respect for the church will end if someone, who has taught me so much about reason and has helped me through recent issues I have had,is forced to retire. Thanks Bob and Good luck!
Dear Father Bob,
You’ve made me think many times about returning to the church after a lifetime of lapsedness – no mean feat. The Catholic party line toed without consideration for the fact that sometimes you need to bend the rules in order to truly respect the complexity of the human condition is what sent me away in the first place. More of the same from the bureaucracy, I wouldn’t have expected anything different. Hang in there Bob – you will shine despite their best attempts to hide you under a bushel (see – it’s coming back!)
Rachel come home All you need to is make a good confession and return to the mass
God Bless
Father Bob, is the spiritual leader of South Melbourne, if he if still fit to do his job and he is then he should stay in his positon. didnt the overment want people to work longer into there working lives and as for the economic downturn is it happening to priests too. I met the archbishop last year and he shook my hand so hard it nearly broke all the bones in my fingers. now that was a power handshake.
Yes Andrea, the power handshake says it all! The victims of sexual abuse are broken people as well. Not the bones in their fingers but their spirit is crushed by the evil priests in our community.
The Archbishop is protecting them. Please ask everyone you know about clergy sexual abuse and who is being protected. Do not take no for an answer just as you do not want this good priest to be dismissed.
Sheila the abuse of children is a dreadful evil and it should be exposed but the Archbishop is not covering up this situation.
Secular organisations not just the Church were slow to grasp the full evil of pedophilia In the past protestations of remorse were taken at face value and people given a second chance.There was much cunning in the way they cowed children into silence about what was being done to them.
In Education, medicine and many other areas of public life people were moved on rather than having complaints followed up and investigated.
We are all wiser now and the Church has put in place procedures to try and ensure that it can never occur again or at the very least not be ignored or covered up.
For any one reading this who has suffered such abuse and feels they have not received earthly justice bear in mind that no one escapes Divine justice and one day the perpetrator of your abuse has to face God and He did say
“Woe to those who scandalise my little ones”
Try to pray for that person .It may be impossible at first but I remeber the prayer that was found on the wall of a concentration camp for children which asked God to forgive those who ran the camp and I remember being astonished and it helped me understand what Jesus meant when he said we must become like little children. Only a pure childlike heart could be so generous and forgiving.
If your heart feels like a cold hard lump of stone in trying to say a prayer of forgiveness look at the crucifix
He who was totally innocent suffered so much for us and forgives us our every hurt and sin.
Hi Father Bob, I’m not a Catholic, and don’t know much about the Catholic Church, or how it is run. What I have found out, after an 82 year old in the community within which I live contacted me, is that here in Australia, once you turn 80, you are virtually debarred from even participating as a volunteer in many community activities, because of insurance constraints. Australia needs to change the way it treats its older citizens who are both able to, and want to do some form of work, be it paid or volunteer. I would have thought that any Christian church would’ve been more enlightened than this.
I’ve started a community band so that the 82 year old has something to do. He’s remarkably fit, both physiologically and psychologically. As I’m sure many, many people throughout the world in our senior ranks are.
We need politicians to change all this. Soon.
I am an atheist and haven’t really ever related to any religious people, but I love everything you do Father Bob and you have my, and a LOT of others people’s support! Please dont retire!!
Bob,
Could you imagine the Buddhists asking the Dalai Lama to retire?
Or, for that matter, the Catholic church asking the Pope to stand down?
Dont give up or give in!
You still have lots more work to do, your job is not done yet.
Unless I missed the point, there was a Commonwealth Government move (recently) to outlaw any discrimination (on the basis of age).
In any event, I believe that the Pope is elected for life (even if he gets to 100).
And seriously, what about Jesus? If he was walking around today I think he’d be seriously concerned at medically disenfranchised suit bag of suits.
I believe the Dalai Lama is set to retire at a certain age and many Catholics were suggesting the previous Pope stand down as his illness became more obvious. Maybe it’s God’s will that Bob retire from the parish and do something else. Maybe the Archbishop has been moved by the Spirit to act this way. It’s worth keeping in mind. Good Luck Father Bob.
Father Bob – You are a guiding light for catholicism. The work that you do as a media personality has served to reinvigorate my faith. Your common sense interpretations and no nonsense approach to the everyday business of living life as a catholic has helped me to remember. I laugh every time I hear you and John Safran on the radio. Sometimes I just sit in the car listen and laugh, instead of going inside.
I don’t believe it is time for you to retire, Bob. Good luck, and to paraphrase don Chip: “Keep ‘em honest”.
God Bless Ya Father Bob,
I don’t claim to know everything there is in The book of Life. Our holy Bible.
But hasn’t our Lord Jesus called you by name into this vocation.
If your fullfilling his every word and actually putting to practice what our Lord Jesus said to us,with all due respect to The Archbishop, I really don’t know why he, or pperhaps his office would want to retire such a Typical example of the word of God.
Father Bob, You are an example that all Australians should be proud of and endeavour to be like.
God Bless Ya!
If they force you into retiring… I will remain a Christian but not a Catholic.
Fr Bob is a Catholic that I can relate to.
Kate you follow Jesus and Jesus founded His Church to continue His teachings Do not leave.
I too am appalled by this pathetic act by the catholic church – removing one of it’s most effective Priests from society. Father Bob is the only Priest that I have respect for. Did they force Mother Teresa to retire? No pope has ever been forced to retire – may God’s will be done – not the archbishop’s.
Mother Teresa would not have taken the crap dealt out by the Archdiocese of Melbourne like the victims of sexual abuse have to.
Time for all catholics to take the blinkers off and start asking some serious questions. Is the priest in your parish a “good” one or has he been recycled by the Archbishop?
Where is your hard earned money going each week? Answer? To highly paid lawyers in the city to fight claims of clergy sexual abuse. Do you get paid $500 per hour?
A few quotes from Mother Teresa
“Whenever our superiors think it desirable for the greater glory of God to give us a change of residence, work, or companions, we should welcome this change as the very will of God and show a humble and joyful obedience.”
“To strengthen ourselves to remain obedience, we must refrain from criticism. Anything that weakens my obedience, however small, I must keep away from. If we don’t obey, we are like a building without cement. For us, obedience is like cement. Obedience is unreasonable for a proud soul, but there is no unreasonableness in obedience for a humble soul.
Obedience is something that makes me Christ-like. What we give up through poverty is something that many people in the world can do. The same is true of chastity. But to love and esteem the privilege of living under obedience is for the few who choose it. Why love and esteem it? Because it is not only a sure means of fulfilling the will of God but is also a very special grace and honor.”
“God calls us to obedience not to torture us but to open our hearts to hear the word of God spoken through another creature. Christ tenderly calls us to unite our will to his love. Therefore, when I obey, I am not alone. If you look at your superior, you see only your superior. But if you look above, you will see the Lord. Jesus said again and again, “I have come to do the will of my Father.” Your superior may be making a mistake in commanding you but if you say, “Be it done unto me according to your word,” then your obedience, your spirit of sacrifice, will protect you. “
Oh Francis! What can I say except get your head out of the books and see what is about you.
lol sheila. I was repyling to jackie’s staement about Mother Teresa being forced to retire and pointing out that she would have retired if told to. In no way was I suggesting that that Mother Teresa would partake in any covering up of hideous sinful acts out of obedience.
btw I googled “mother teresa quote obedience” which took me 3 minutes. Hardly a “head in books case”.
As my abilities of self evalulation are poor due to being brainwashed as a child, could you please tell me what is about me?
…and wasn’t she a tirant to the sisters who worked with her???
Father Bob. Thanks for your compassion, good sense, balance and practical outreach into the the community – your contribution as a PP is invaluable. Your example and work are often spoken about in our Eastern suburbs practising Catholic household of young people son 27, son 23, daughter 16 with admiration – it is amazing that such a successful parish priest could be asked to step down against his will at a time when priest numbers have declined so radically – you’ve sure got plenty of get up and go left in you and we wish you well in all you do!
Does this church have enough priests coming through the ranks to send a wonderful example of Christ’s work out to pasture? Like the priest in Brisbane who was forced out of his church for embracing his community, you Bob are paying the penalty of being in touch with the common man and woman. Shame on this church. It used to be my church, but these bureaucrats running the show from the previous Pope down have soured me. This is another example of rampant neoconism. God help us.
Father Bob, I throw up my arms in disbelief! What are they doing??? We just lost our Parish Priest Fr Lou Heriot who was hoping to stay on just a little bit longer to celebrate his 60th year of priesthood with his parish. He was also an absolute legend!!!
Hi Father Bob
As a teenager in Ivanhoe I heard your sermon at Christmas modnight Mass (Father Geoghan was probably a bit too old for 12am starts by then). You totally cracked me up with the line “the Immaculate Conception was the ultimate in Woman’s Lib”. I have followed your efforts ever since,. and hope this ridiculous situation is resolved sensibly and amicably. Good luck and best wishes. Felicity
Father Bob, I’m not even a Catholic but I certainly appreciate the tireless work you do for the community and admire your great integrity. You help make the Catholic Church relevant in today’s society – which can’t be easy especially with it’s history and reputation of child abuse.
I’m sure you see this as your life’s work and if you are more than capable why should you have to retire. They never retired the incoherent Pope, and he could barely do his job (apologies if that’s blasphemous). I also don’t see a massive queue for contenders lining up behind you either. Keep fighting the good fight! Many Melbournians (even the non religious and most likely blasphemous ones) are extremely proud of you. You put character, humour and intelligence back into the Catholic Church, it’s a pity the Archbishop doesn’t see it that way or perhaps he’s a little jealous. Maybe you should go after his job, I’m sure there is no age limit!
G’day Bob
Mate, *** I don’t think anybody can force anybody to retire on the basis of age ***.
Maybe the laws have changed.
But when I was a manager I was told that it was a convention, not a law.
Unless you have signed an employment agreement that said that you would agree to retire at 75, then firing you on the basis of your age is unfair dismissal.
*** It’s discriminatory ***.
Fight it.
What’s the Archbishop’s problem?
How did he get the top job if he is this insensitive to the feelings and needs of his flock?
Mate you’re a legend.
I even know about you and I’m a Zen Buddhist!
“Don’t give up, you still have friends” (Sting).
Regards
Dick
You ask what the Archbishops problem is…. I will tell you.
He never was a priest in a parish except for a short stint at Brunswick therefore has no understanding of priestly life at the “coalface”. Secondly he is an acadaemic and therefore has no sense of the real world – i.e. living in poverty and marital problems, kids problems etc.
Thirdly, he has a problem with power as most men do in his position and at his age has no grasp on reality. It is the “old boys” network that is alive, well and living in the catholic church but unfortunately catholics are so caught up in their daily lives they do not see it.
Have they asked the Archbishop where their money is going? It is going to expensive lawyers to fight victims of sexual abuse. Have they asked him where the 300 plus sexual abusers are in the Melbourne archdiocese that he has moved around? They could be in YOUR parish today. Have you asked? Do not let your child near a priest unless you are there.
Sheila the abuse of children is a dreadful evil and it should be exposed but the Archbishop is not covering up this situation.
Secular organisations not just the Church were slow to grasp the full evil of pedophilia In the past protestations of remorse were taken at face value and people given a second chance.There was much cunning in the way they cowed children into silence about what was being done to them.
In Education, medicine and many other areas of public life people were moved on rather than having complaints followed up and investigated.
We are all wiser now and the Church has put in place procedures to try and ensure that it can never occur again or at the very least not be ignored or covered up.
For any one reading this who has suffered such abuse and feels they have not received earthly justice bear in mind that no one escapes Divine justice and one day the perpetrator of your abuse has to face God and He did say
“Woe to those who scandalise my little ones”
Try to pray for that person .It may be impossible at first but I remeber the prayer that was found on the wall of a concentration camp for children which asked God to forgive those who ran the camp and I remember being astonished and it helped me understand what Jesus meant when he said we must become like little children. Only a pure childlike heart could be so generous and forgiving.
If your heart feels like a cold hard lump of stone in trying to say a prayer of forgiveness look at the crucifix
He who was totally innocent suffered so much for us and forgives us our every hurt and sin
Hi Father Bob. I believe you should be able to stay in South Melbourne. Actually I would say any elderly priest should be able to stay living in their last parish if they wish to do so. As far as I am aware, there is plenty of room in most presbyteries so why subject elderly priests to the stress of relocating? Why remove the eldery from their social network? If a priest feels , and is, healthy enough to continue working he should be allowed to do so. JOHN Paul II was Pope till he died and Father Bob is in a far better state of health!!
As far as I am aware Father Bob has done nothing to suggest he is not up to job, but Archbishop HArt told a woman who was sexually abused by a priest to ” go to hell”. Who needs to retire? Hmmmm.
Go for it Catherine. The only one who needs pensioning off is the Hart(less). Surely he is much older that Father Bob anway isn’t he?
Sheila please stop referring to the Archbishop in this way. We should treat one another with respect.
I have great respect for Father Bob. I know he is a Gospel priest and he has always had a great sense of the ridiculous and a very down to earth style.
Defending him does not require disrespect towards the Archbishop.
hear! hear!
Fr Bob
If you are such a ‘secular saint’, please open the books of the Parish for all to see so that all can see what ‘works’ you are responsible for.
TT
If you are really the “truth teller” why not speak the truth here among friends?
You shouldn’t comment if you are ignorant of the real facts. Once upon a time, Fr Bob was worthy of the praise he received on this forum. Unfortunately, and sadly that Fr Bob no longer exists. The one who has replaced him is self-serving rather than altruistic but the rest of you can believe in fairy tales if you want to.
Fair point then.
This comment was not made by me nor the one before posted by the same person. I was having dinner at the time this was posted.
If you are so bent on the TRUTH why are you impersonating me?
If you believe this to be so Truth Teller I assume you are praying fervently each day for Father Bob.
This is the Year of the Priest.
Many of the laity are so critical of our religious but have we been praying for them ?
Perhaps we have all been careless and neglectful assuming their habits and collar meant they were not in need of our constant prayer and support.
Many of our priests have been working incredibly long hours and the horrible scandal of abuse has been a source of grief for our good priests. If you truly believe Father Bob has lost his way I hope you are praying up a storm for him?
Truth, books are audited,reports made to diocese and truth there for all to see.RJM.
Father bob, what can i do to help ensure you stay???!!!
I haven’t been to church service in years.. aftering feeling a bit disillusioned with the ‘system’. A friend took me to a couple of your sunday services and you were great !!
You are relevant and certainly make me give thought to re-connect with the church.. We need more priests like your self out there.
Bless you Father Bob.
Matthew don’t just think about it do it. Jesus is waiting for you with open arms.All it takes is a good confession and returning to mass.God Bless
Dear Bob,
God bless you and your good people…you are an inspiration and the work thats been doen by so many over the years at South Melbourne to flesh out the teacching of Jesus is inestimably precious in the sight of God and humans….many, many years back without knowing it you showed me how to be a TRUE believer and follower of Jesus, your inspiration has remined with me for the last 36 years! I left that Roman organisation a long time back, couldn’t stand it any longer…still I admire your loyalty to your people and the trmendous love and compassion that should shut the “pious” mouths of the shrink-hearted churchocrats who run the show….Lord have mercy mate isn’t it indeed a starnge thing that darkness has to always try to snuff out a little flickering flame? I could never have put up with the RC mob as you have but I’ll tell you what mate; I ABSOLUTELY mlove you for what you do, are doing and d.v. will continue to do……how many times have I sat abck closed my eyes and given thanks to God for the little followers of Jesus in SOuth Melbourne? Dearest Bob, you irascible “cleric” YOU ARE LOVED and those who know you will not stand silent while paper tigers try to claw at you…ther are too many souls here and in the other world who have received the love of Christ at your hands to allow you to stumble, even if the churchocrats “win” as they probably will the Light still shines all the mnore for having shown how utterly small minded and sterile they are…..God bless you dear warrior love from Mary and Pat Curley…we NEVER forget your love and support from way back even up until now……I’ll light a candle in our monastery for you and ask Our Lady to give those churchocrats a belt in the guts!
I assume you are now an Anglican well, I can tell you for a fact your bishop in Tasmania is an even bigger hypocrite than any Catholic I have ever met. If you want proof give me your email address.
If you have truth to tell isn’t it better to say it out in the open rather than having something to hide?
you assume wrong.
Sorry Rev, what’s the secret denom. you belong to.
Of what importance is it which “secret denom” I belong to? Organisational mentality is what is killing Christianity; the fact that I chose to leave the RC organisation has absolutley NOTHING to do with the comments I offered about Fr Bob’s predicament, if anything my comments demonstrate that an ex Roman like me can at times get over his anti Roman prejudice and see how wonderfully God’s Light shines there too. I see no reason to announce my denomination to the world and give you my dear Simon another opportunity to character assassinate others like you have attempted to do to an Anglican cleric. I have lived with divisive and judgemental people in the church for many years and see no reason to throw scraps to the ones that seek to devour others. Suffice it to say that I belong to an ancient and venerable long-suffering church but above and beyond that as always like you I belong to God.
So it’s Ok to character assassinate the RC’s but not anybody else eh Rev.
Bob, my thoughts are with you. Also I hope my thoughts get through to the archbishop. We are being pummelled from all sides by people who have a “professional responsibility” but become process bureaucrats. That behaviour is sucking the life out of people so don’t leave the people to that alienating behaviour.
Hello Bob,
We met several years ago. I just wanted to offer you my support for the fantastic work that you’ve done and do. And under no circumstances should you back down! The work that you continue to do serves also as an inspiration for others to join/continue the fight against poverty/homelessness/drugs.
Paul
The person who should be resigning is Archbishop Hart(less). How about getting rid of all the sexual abusers in his priesthood first. That way he will be left with such a small army of men he will have to get all the good old men back.
Funny how double standards work. Speak out about contraception and you get suspended but go on abusing children and you get protected and moved to a new parish.
Time for Hart to stop the rot.
My thoughts are with you, Bob.
I do hope the archbishop also sends a simlar message to the current pope…. i’m sure he wont…
Bob i have always enjoyed your insite on john’s radio show i think you would be able to lead a far more productive roll within the community with the church setting the “rules” on how you can act.
Fr Bob
I am no fan of the Catholic Church hierarchy but you are a hypocrite. On the one hand you present as a champion of the poor, but in reality you are a self-serving egomaniac who finds it difficult to tell the truth. You have become a fraud and it’s time everyone knows it.
BM
So Barry, have the intestinal fortitude to say it out loud.
The dribble on this forum is pathetic and feeds the egomaniacal desire of a publicity seeker who has lost his way. Ask his fellow priests about this man’s ethics and listen to their view.
truth, ask them then tell us.RJM.
Barry, please tell us more.RJM.
Ffather Bob, as an ex student at Sts Peters and Pauls I know what a great parish priest you are. My brother still lives in the parish and his son is due to start school there next year. It is so unfair that your are being forced into retirement when others in the church are not as active and passionate as you are but mary years older. Don’t give up your lifes work
Hi Father Bob!
I like you because of your “common touch”! Whether in everyday life, or even on Triplej, you talk to all, in a no-nonsence, but jovial way, & if there is ONE reason that the Church should keep you where you are, it’s exactly THAT!!
Good Luck Father Bob – my money’s on YOU!
Father Bob, Each night since you bought me back to the church I have prayed for your health and well being, obviously I have not been praying hard enough. I am saddened and sickened that a religion I am proud of despite my questions on some doctrine could treat any of its fathers in this matter. An old folks home for retired priests, for a spirit such as yours would seem awfully imprisoning. I will be adding my voice to the calls to keep you right where you are.
Response to Steve:
Are you a member of our parish? Do you regularly attend services with Fr Bob? Or are you making comment on something you have perceived from the media? Your comments certainly do not paint you as a catholic or a christian. Your claims are unfounded, vicious, vindictive, cruel and totally judgmental. Who are you to cast such aspersion?
Father bob, i am not a religous man but your compulsary retirement has made me quite angry with the cheifs at the archdiocese. How dare they force you into retirement when they should be learning from people like yourself what helping the poor & needy is all about. What those cheifs need is a good swift kick up the pants so they can wake up to themselves & think about the fantastic work the rare breed of people like yourself acheive everyday. I hope that denis hart changes his mind & allows to retire when you decide NOT when canon law decides. May your god help you & keep you well father bob.
Stick it up ‘em Father Bob! And the Church continues to wonder why people are leaving in droves? If there were more like you then it wouldn’t be happening. All the best in your crusade!
I don’t have a dog in this fight, but people seem to have some funny ideas.
Whoever gave anyone the idea that a retired priest would be kicked out on the street with nowhere to go?
Why the heck would you draw up a competition between devotional Catholicism and being social activists? Any solid Catholic knows that both are required!
And the strange idea that “neocons” are a rich and powerful bunch is laughable. If had to draw up “teams” according to a silly and inaccurate black and white notion of “liberals” and “conservatives” you’d have to say that it is liberal clergy who basically dominate the church in Melbourne, and have done so as long as I have lived.
I hope the outcome here is just and fair, and that Fr Bob and Archbishop Hart are treated with courtesy, as with every other priest, and that people leave off the subtle digs and sensationalism. Everyone loves a good fight in the media, but it’s not always helpful.
Nobody is saying that Father Bob will have nowhere to go but like a lot of senior citizens in our society he will be “put out to pasture” with no real sense of the belonging that he has had all his life. We all hope as we get old that that will not happen to us and I hope is doesn’t happen to you Michael.
The devotional catholics you talk about (priests?) are 6 percent sexual abusers and are stil active within parishes in Melbourne. Is this what you want for your family?
This regime has to go and has to go NOW! This sacking of a priest is just another example of how out of touch the hireachy is.
What on earth are you saying, Sheila?
Are you saying that 6% of priests are sexual abusers? Fr Bob is a priest – are you lumping him in with them? Is that fair? Or is it only fair to talk this way about other priests you haven’t met? Do you think Fr Bob likes you speaking this way about his brother priests?
Or are you saying that it’s only “devotional” ones that are sexual abusers? I’d be very interested to see where you got that idea. It’s just plain wrong.
Actually, I’m not just speaking of priests; I’m responding to Fr Bob’s reference to supposedly 1 in 10 Catholics.
My point is that there’s no “devotional” vs “social justice” dichotomy. A “good” Catholic prays and helps the poor. There is no competition in this, and we shouldn’t talk as if those who eg love the Rosary are somehow opposed to those who help the poor. In my experience, they’re often the same people.
And yes, I do have a good deal of experience in this.
As for Fr Bob belonging, well, IF his resignation is accepted, I can’t answer for how he’ll feel about it, of course. But I know many retired priests. They don’t just stop. I can’t see why Fr Bob would need to stop all his charity work, pastoral care, saying Mass and seeing his many devoted supporters. They are not by any means “put out to pasture” if they still have the energy, as Fr Bob undoubtedly does.
Yes, Michael, That figure is correct. There are priests in your midst who are and continue to be sexual abusers. They are there because the Archbishop will not sack them. I would suggest you contact professionals who work in this area and get the facts if you are interested in cleaning up the catholic clergy. If ever a protest was needed in the catholic church this is it. Catholics should be outraged at what is going on in the Melbourne Archdiocese and in all catholic churches around the world.
I do not know Fr Bob so therefore would not make any assumptions about the man bu if he is as good as everyone is saying then I am sure he would like the truth to be heard about his brother priests.
It is time for all “good” priests to stop hiding the truth from catholics.
One does not have to have any religion or even believe in God to love and respect people and do good works.
Ben, I believe I smell a street march in the air.
through the streets of south melbourne chanting “hell no Bob cant go”
How about a street march against the Archbishop using the Archbishops own words to the victim of sexual abuse “Go to Hell” (Bitch)
please, no.RJM.
Maybe a street march type event in appreciation of Fr Bob rather than protesting against the Bishop.
http://www.cam.org.au/latest-news/father-bob-maguire-a-statement-from-archbishop-denis-hart.html
You don’t mean to tell us that the Archbishop actually spoke some words to the public? Shock! Horror!
Could it have been his trustworthy sidekick Prowse or some other mignon who grovels at his side?
Sheila the Church has a human political structure left by Christ to ensure the “Good News” would continue to reach people and in doing so help them discern and elude the grasp of Evil but protecting and guiding it is the Holy Spirit.
The abuse of children is a deep and ugly wound on the the Church. It had to be brought out into the light. Wounds hidden become infected and cause even more harm than the initial wound itself.Such wounds were inflicted by individuals giving in to the temptation of evil .
Each individual must resist evil and strive for holiness.
I have no doubt that the Holy Spirit will guide and sustain Father Bob through this episode in his colourful life.He is as tough as old army boots and he may not realise it now but the Supreme Commander may have a new mission lined up for him!
God bless you Shiela
Thanks Mary. But what are you and other catholics doing to get the Archbishop to get rid of these evil people?
Please get the facts and be as outspoken about that as you are here.
Leave Mary alone. She is clearly a person of faith and not a judgmental ignoramus like yourself.
Sheila,
You are quite clearly someone who has been deeply wounded by abuse and/or have had close contact with those who have suffered horrendous abuse.
It is a terrible evil.The Church has been slow to act as have secular institutions.It is wrong that we were slow to act.The Church after all has more expertise in dealing with evil than a secular institution.It should have led the way.
We need to ask ourselves how could evil have grown up in our midst and we have been so slow to recognise and deal with it.
What have I done?I pray for both victims and perpetrators.Every time a case is publicised I pray for all concerned.There but for God’s grace could go you or I.
Fulton Sheen a wonderful American priest once said when we are tempted Christ seems distant aloof and the devil our friend whispering in our ear the same temptation he used on Adam and Eve “Why should you deny yourself. You deserve to be happy.Satisfy your desire” Then when you do the devil is mocking you deserve contempt and when the world catches you out he deserts you leaving you to be rejected and despised. But Jesus the God you betrayed when you sinned is there to console and comfort you when you seek forgiveness.
Jesus was totally innocent and suffered terrible abuse just like some of these children whose innocence was stolen from them by evil.
I urge any one who has suffered abuse to attend the healing masses that take place at Saint Francis church in Lonsdale street on a regular basis where they can receive the holy oils.
Jesus and Mary His beloved Mother can console, comfort and heal the broken hearted.
No one escapes justice.If they elude it on earth and have no remorse or shame they will face Divine Justice and all victims can take great consolation in Jesus’ warning
“WOE TO THOSE WHO SCANDALISE MY
LITTLE ONES”
Ben where were the comments by the Archbishop posted?
Go to Cathnews.com
Michelle, sadly I wouldn’t hold your breath, the following is a statement from the Archbishop. Reading between the lines it doesn’t seem too positive….
Further to Father Bob’s comments today, Archbishop of Melbourne Denis Hart said today that he has listened to Father Bob’s comments on 3AW.
“Father Maguire has for many years provided exemplary service to the Archdiocese of Melbourne and in particular to the people of South Melbourne,” the Archbishop said.
“I am deeply grateful to him for his exceptional pastoral work over many years.”
Father Maguire has been the Parish Priest of Saints Peter and Paul Parish, South Melbourne since 15 September 1973. Father Maguire will be 75 on 14 September 2009.
The Code of Canon law, which governs the structure of the Catholic Church, provides that when a Parish Priest reaches 75 years of age, that he is requested to offer his resignation to the Diocesan Bishop. The Bishop, after considering all of the circumstances of the priest and the parish, can decide whether to accept or defer the resignation.
Archbishop Hart said that he had written to Father Maguire to advise him of his responsibilities under Canon Law and of the support available to retired priests of the Archdiocese. The Priests Retirement Foundation supports retired priests through the provision of accommodation and financial support.
There are currently 88 retired priests of the Archdiocese being supported by the Priests Retirement Foundation, 61 of whom are 75 years of age or more, 21 of whom are aged between 66 and 75, and 6 under 65 who have retired due to ill health.
The Archbishop said that he awaits Father Maguire’s response.
The Archbishop took the time to reply to an email I sent earlier today. He sounds kind enough but is not making any promises.
‘Thank you for your kind words re Fr Bob Maguire. All of us esteem the work he has done. I can assure you the matter, and his welfare and that of the people, are being considered carefully. With every good wish, Yours sincerely.
+Denis J. Hart
Archbishop of Melbourne’
Gosh, my reply from the good Archbishop must have got lost in the ether! Lucky you!
Now now no need for this!
Father Bob;
By all accounts you are still fit in mind and body and a wonderful leader of our church – why does the Archbishop want you to leave? Considering the low uptake of vocation I cannot see why we should be retiring our good leaders.
Considering the low uptake of “vocations” have you considered the facts? 6% of all priests are sexual abusers and yet there is still no psychological screening for “vocations”. Did you know that all paedophiles entering the priesthood were paedophiles before they decided to enter?
Did you know that all these people with a “vocation” are still in your midst and preaching to you every Sunday?
You talk a lot Sheila. People who talk a lot probably aren’t reading enough. If you read enough, you’d know that candidates for priestly training ARE psychologically screened. Makes me wonder about all the other “facts” you’re citing . . .
I read a lot Raphael and I also read a lot of matter relating to this subject and have attended conferences on the matter so if you have any professional material you would like to put forward to refute what I have said I would be very glad to hear it. Why are catholics so ostrich like? Get your head out of the sand and see what is ahppening around you.
http://www.google.com/search?q=Catholic++Seminary+psychological+screening+tests+&rls=com.microsoft:en-au:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGLL_en
Google this and you will find plenty of information Sheila.
God Bless
Father Bob, I am a lapsed Catholic but I am one of your many fans and I totally support you staying on until YOU are ready to retire. I only wish the Church had more men like you at the helm.
Kirsten come home.All it takes is a good confession and returning to mass
God Bless
Bob, what you need to do is have the powers from on high just where in the Bible it talks about retirement?
There is absolutly no biblical grounds for their request and if you are still capable of performing the sacrements and delivering ministry to the people, there is probably stronger grounds to suggest that it is against the law for them to make you retire. Good priests are as scarse as.
Yes, you are right. “Good” priests are a scarce as hens with teeth.
Are you aware of the number of “bad” priests still serving under Archbishop Hart?
Have you asked about the history of your parish priest and why he left his last parish? Ask the Archbishop to come clean about his good/bad priests and where they are.
Sheila would you condemn forever a priest who showed genuine remorse after one episode apologised to his victim and then rebuilt his spiritual life?
For anyone who missed the radio interview this morning or would like to learn more, Bob and I recorded a podcast last week on the day he received the letter. You can listen at http://fatherbob.thepodcastnetwork.com/
There is also a button on the front page of this blog that links to it.
Dear Father Bob,
After all this time they have finally come up with a “legit” idea to get rid of you.
And what will happen if you go.
What sort of contingency plan do they have to uphold and honor your work and name. What will become of the youth you are helping.
Not to mention the lack of priest in Victoria. They must be breaking down your door with references. But of course not, you have not say.
And old friend.
Little Mother.
I notice that the online Age has deleted the link to this blog from their article on this subject, it was there earlier today but has now disappeared.
Divine Intervention perhaps?
Dear Father Bob. I have just read the news about your forced resignation. I was so outraged I felt the need to reply and comment how much I admire and respect your work. People like yourself are the ones that are the compassionate/ loving face of the Roman Catholic Church. Age doesn’t come into it, talk about double standards, the Pope is 82! My wife and I live in Melbourne, would love you to come and live with us, the discussions around the dinner table would be priceless!
Response to Simon,
It could be argued that Jesus was a publicity seeker!
Posted by Simon Manche | September 7, 2009, 10:56 am
Hmm it seems to me that Bob thinks he is more wiser than the Pope.
Bob loves to insult the church and what it presents. Let him do a Kennedy and form his own exil church in South Melbourne.
Bobs outbusts remind one of seeing a frustrated and bitter old man.
Lifes Good (LG) Bob, retirement may drive you to your senses. Enjoy.
Steve, I shall not only pray for Father Bob,I shall also pray for you that you will be releived of your dislike (I do not like to use the word Hatred) for Fr Bob. God Bless
Your attitude towards the Catholic Faith, will only eat you away, inside. Life is too short to hold such bad feelings towards anyone or anything. What do you imagine that you will gain, if you don’t chamge your ways of thinking?
Frustrated?Perhaps but bitter? I don’t think so Father Bob has too good a sense of humour!
As far as I’m concerned father bob is the boss. The Archbishop should have the veto in circumstances such as illness or mismanagement, but otherwise if bob is doing a good job he should be allowed to continue on doing it.
The truth is the conservatives have been trying to knock bob off for years, two busy taking two steps backward for everyone one of bobs steps forward.
good on you bob for all your work. I’d be the first to encourage you to put up your feet but the last to tell you what you should do.
No no Jack,God is the Boss.
Many of us stray from the faith we were born into, and I was one of these. In early adulthood I was one of the fortunate people whose life you touched by your ability not to ‘talk the talk’ but to live out what you believed. I thank you for this and have an even deeper faith because of you. Yours is the Mass I attend, yours is the sermon I understand and while it still works, why invent the wheel? You’re an inspiriational person who is not afraid to challenge people to think about their lives. Is that not what Jesus did?
Absolutely absurd.
The one figure who’s nearly pulled me back to the church in the last few weeks (Been sneaking in up the back at South Yarra) is getting the axe.
Stupid.
I am sorry to hear about your plight Father Bob.
Not being a Christian myself, I am still appalled at the manner in which you are being treated. If your plight can motivate someone like me, who is not of your faith to make a comment. Then I can only imagine how outraged your congregation and other Catholics are!
Your good work is too good to be overshadowed by such an ageist and small minded approach by the Church.
I believe your 75 years young, keep fighting the good fight.
Hello Father Bob. I prey for the wisdom and reason of all concerned. As I do for your continuing works whatever your address.
I know you as Father Bob of the Australian public as opposed to South Melbourne. I protest to the threat of you voice not being aired the hardest. Selfishly I suppose, as that is the part that mean the most to me.
I realize that the ‘power source’ may well be your congregation, as they are the visible ones that turn up on a Sunday, and without the base of operation the ‘head’ is without a ‘body’.
A question, are you still ‘Father’ Bob without the congregation? As a non-Catholic, I’m not sure as to if the title is stuck for life.
As before, I commend and prey for your further efforts.
All the best
RobP
It was over 50 years ago that I first made Fr Bob’s acquaintance and that too of Archbishop Denis – and I have followed their careers since then, although at a distance. I know, however, that in their motivation there is far more that they share than separates them. I hope that their shared values will form a basis for resolution of this essentially trivial difficulty and that, upon reflection, it is not seen as an impasse. Surely there are ways in which Fr Bob can be enabled to continue to serve while at the same time the needs of the archdioceses are met.
Charles Baré
I remember the first week when you started this blog (although at another address). I stated that I wasn’t a follower of the church and I’m still not a follower. I do beleive that your work goes beyond the church because you have the ability to reach out and inspire people. This blog proves that, your work with John Safran proves that, you are reaching out to a whole new generation and teaching about the church and the other work you do and inspiring people to take up the causes.
If you’re doing this so effectively now, why retire? It’s appalling. You’re reaching out to a wider community than you ever have before because of your actions. I’m sure your followers and fans alike will support you. I’m going to write a letter to archbishop@melbourne.catholic.org.au now.
I’m an atheist but I donate money to you because I trust that you only have the interests of the poor at heart. To treat you like this is an outrage and the Church will feel the backlash from ALL sectors of the community. Don’t even think about leaving!
And do you know where your money really goes to?
truth, well, where does it go?RJM.
Your comment is very enigmatic If you have an accusation to make spell it out!
It is incidents like this that reinforce my decision years ago to abandon the faith.
What hypocrisy considering the age of Popes, this is so typical of the church that I once belonged to as a devout parishioner, their attitude has always been
Dont do as I do, do as I say!!!
I thought Pell brought enough pomposity and even embarrasment to the table but Hart tops it all!!!!!
Colin
Next time you look at a picture of Jesus on the hill of Calvary notice how many of the thousands who had cheered him into Jerusalem waving palms and shouting Hosanna remained there to support Him in His pain and humiliation.
There was only His Mother , Saint John and two women disciples.
Today the Church Jesus founded is greviously wounded by our sinfulness.
Now is not the time to continue to stay away Now is the time to reclaim the courage of Pentecost and return to your Faith and stand beneath that cross.
Go to confession, come back to mass where at every consecration you can console Christ on that hill of Calvary.
Bob, my sympathies, but to all those who think the church is on a vendetta against Fr Bob: there is one rule applicable to everyone. all priests. retire from the parish by 75- sounds reasonable to me, for any job.
while i hope they make an exception, i wouldn’t bank on breaching canon law.
Bob you are in your prime. Your weddings are inspirational – couples love you and pick your church because you will add some excitement to their wedding day. We all need to fight this ruling.
You have our support.
I’m not a Catholic either but my mother’s family were. My father’s side were all Protestants.
We learnt from an early age that it is not institutions that matter, it is people
You don’t need the church as much as the church and other people need you Bob
Wherever you go from here and however different our outlooks, I’m sure we at least share the view that you have an even greater future
Hang in there mate and let the fun continue. For all of us. We all experience silliness for much of our lives – this just happens to be your turn
Silliness tends to move on if you ignore it. Love it away. Remember Father Brown’s words “when for the first time he reached the utmost stretch of the indignation that he could launch against his children:
“Oh you silly people” he said in a high and quavering voice; “Oh, you silly silly people” ” (GK Chesterton)
Phil this comment would make sense if we were talking about a church that was simply an isntitution with human members and operating according to the consensus of those human beings.In that case once an organisation neither wanted you or tried to stifle your ideas you could leave them and go your own way but we are talking about the Roman Catholic Church the mystical Body of Christ.
Father Bob will never leave that Church that is what he means by toeing the company line He is and always has been loyal to Christ as Priest and in his own priesthood has brought comfort and Truth to thousands of souls.
Everyone who truly loves Father Bob should pray that the decision that is best for his soul in accordance with God’s will is made.This might be that the Archbishop modifies his response or offers a compromise of some sort but it is unwise to automatically assume that every decision that goes against what we would prefer is always something that will cause us misery and unhapiness Sometimes we can look back on such times in our lives and see that they led to new and wonderful things.
In response to Steve of 9.56AM
It could be argued that Jesus was a publicity seeker!
I can only hope Shannon is right about the impending backlash. Presumably, though, this is why the Archbishop is making it into a bureaucratic rather than theological issue – not wishing to repeat the mistake made by his counterpart in Brisbane when trying to rid himself of a turbulent priest.
But it just goes to show that the Church, as they say, must be divinely inspired to have survived 2000 years, despite having such people in charge.
Fr Bob – you were very good to me, as you have been to hundreds of people, many years ago. I attended mass at SsPP on a recent visit to Melbourne and was amazed at the transformation after some 20 years. Give ‘em hell.
Dear Father Bob, aren’t all men equal? You are a great man and have every right to point out that if the Pope at 82 can continue his service then you must be able also.
The decision that you MUST retire is hypocrisy. God Bless
Why is anyone surprised that the entrenched conservative Catholic leadership under Archbishop Hart is seeking to consolidate its power and evict social activists like Father Bob from the Church ? Today’s Catholic leadership has more in common with Santamaria and continues to close doors to anyone who does not meet their strict doctrinal fundamentalist views. The Vatican’s choice of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger as Pope demonstrates the Church’s unwillingness to accept any changes to traditional Catholic thought on birth control, homosexuality or advanced medical research
Peter E you forget the Church is not merely a product of the consensus of views of its earthly administrators but a Divinely founded institution that Jesus promised would be preserved from serious moral error by the Holy Spirit.
If errors arise because of human prejudices or pride the Holy Spirit raises up holy souls to fight that error and things are put right Errors or heresies are like spiritual weeds that constantly sprout seeded by the devil and watered and fed by human pride.
The Church continues to teach Christ’s Truth and will till the end of time.Never confuse popularity or the world’s approval as measures of what is true. There was a time in history when thousands lined the streets to cheer a man called Hitler. Did he represent Truth? When Jesus died on the cross where were the cheering crowds that had greeted him with waving palms only a week before?
I know that this situation is unfair and is most likely an attempt to shut you up Fr. Bob, but it maybe a fork in the road of your life’s journey.
You are needed by the Australian Catholic Church (not the machine but the ordinary Catholics) to bring the Church closer to the people and the people closer to the Church.
Always remember that you are an inspiration to most people whether they are Catholic or not and Christian or not. You are a good man. No wonder the Curia hate you!
You can e-mail your thoughts to Archbishop Hart (!) at archbishop@melbourne.catholic.org.au
I’m appalled and saddened. You’ve got to fight this Father Bob. I’m not even Catholic or religious, but I appreciate you as a human being who works selflessly for the good of others. What relevance is your age?? Your bosses need a serious reality check…
Father Bob, whilst I appreciate your position and belief in ‘towing the company line’, you’ll have to excuse your loyal supporters, of which I am one. We cannot sit by at watch the Church treat you in this manner.
You single-handedly restored by faith in the Catholic Church. They should be doing everything possible to support you, and others like you. Not force you out.
The Pope is 82, he wasn’t even elected until he was 78. And he’s by no means the oldest.
Not many Archbishops would be known by their first name by people outside the organaisation. I certainly have no idea of who the archbishop is but I know of this guy in South Melbourne called Father Bob from my time in Papua New Guinea so do my kids. You have my support.
I know and understand more about the Catholic Church from Father Bob than any other person in the church.
The best ambassador the church has in Australia. I wouldn’t like him on the opposition.
cheers
Don’t go Father Bob, you are a breath of fresh air. We all love everything about you.
Dont give up the fight Father Bob. Why should you retire just because you have reached a certian age.
Father Bob, there is a old saying that goes, “If you have to go, you have to go”
Lets face it Bob, you have had it too good for too long, let somebody else enjoy living in a multi million property in South Melbourne, the good book says that greed is a sin, be careful!
Worried about the future? where you might live?, well join the billions of other people around the world who have no food and water.
Lets have a real priest at South Melbourne, not a publicity seeker.
steve, obviously you couldn’t see that jesus was a publicity seeker. Out there asking others to roll up their sleeves and to treat others as they would want to be treated. How many mouths have you tried to fill this week? Unless you can offer to do better than father bob, then your opinion is of no value.We have a person here who by his unusual ways opens our eyes to the suffering in the community. So Bob, your doing a great job, publicity and all.keep going while you have the fire. Even those of us who have never met you admire and treasure your work.
Steve, thanks for keeping South’s welfare in your heart.RJM.
To Father Bob,
Thank you for all your tireless work over the years. We love you. Don’t go.
To the Archbishop,
Please excuse me, I am an atheist so your name eludes me. But I know Father Bob’s.
Although Father Bob may cause some level of consternation within the church, he is the only Catholic clergyman from whom I would feel comfortable enough to seek assistance, should I ever need it. At a time when the Catholic Church could do with a good relationship with people outside its congregation, he embodies many of the traits to which the Catholic Church presumably aspires, including being non-judgemental.
He and his work are synonymous with South Melbourne. It would be a lesser place without him. Please let him continue his work there.
Power corrupts ones mind absolutely, I’m with you Fr Bob, and why is it compulsory for Bob to retire when there are archibishops way past the magic compulsory retiring age running around ensuring compliance surely whats good for the goose is good for the gander
Father Bob – I heard your comments on 3AW this morning about a forced resignation and impending eviction. Im appalled that the church heirachy have taken this position after the many years of service you have given to the institution and community. My guess is once the public get wind of this, the backlash will be so great the church will no doubt be forced to back down and alter their position. Youre irreplacable Fr Bob – the community loves you and you wont be left behind. Failing that, you can come and live with us until your next church posting comes along!
Much as I admire Father Bob I am sure he would agree with me the none of us are irreplaceable. Sure some of us might be missed more than others but go down to a river or a beach and throw a stone in the water No matter how big the stone the ripples eventually subside. Life can and does go on without any one of us.What we cannot do without is God For those who do not know or believe in God His presence is made visible to you via the compassion of those who do believe in Him.It is true for many people Father Bob has brought God’s love into their lives but even if he moves onto other things that love remains.
No you are impersonating her.