Pope Francis Appoints Father Anthony Gerard Percy as New Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney
Pope Francis has made a significant appointment within the Catholic Church by naming Father Anthony Gerard Percy as the new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Sydney and titular bishop of Appiaria, Bulgaria. This move underscores the Vatican’s commitment to strengthening Catholic leadership in the region.
A New Chapter in Sydney’s Catholic Leadership
Sydney Dominican Archbishop Anthony Fisher expressed gratitude for this appointment, stating, “I’m grateful to the Holy Father for choosing another good and faith-filled priest to serve as a bishop in our archdiocese and to work alongside me in the vineyard of Sydney.” This new chapter marks an important step in the continued development of Sydney’s religious leadership.
Father Anthony Gerard Percy: A Brief Biography
Born in Cooma, southern New South Wales, Percy, 62, was ordained a priest in 1990 for the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn. Since then, he has dedicated his life to serving the Catholic community across various parishes including St. Mary’s in Young, St. Gregory’s in Queanbeyan, Our Lady Help of Christians in Ardlethan, Sacred Heart in Ariah Park, St. Therese in Barellan, and Mary Queen of Apostles in Goulburn.
Educational Background and Priesthood Experience
From 1999 to 2003, Percy pursued higher education at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he earned a doctorate in marriage from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute. This extensive academic background has undoubtedly contributed to his profound understanding of the faith and his leadership abilities.
Percy’s Leading Roles in the Catholic Church
In 2009, Cardinal George Pell appointed Percy rector of the Good Shepherd Seminary in Sydney, a role he held until 2014. Under his guidance, the seminary flourished, fostering the growth of future priests. Following this, Percy served as vicar general of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn from 2014 to 2023, where his administrative skills were further honed.
Trust and Partnership with Cardinal Pell
In a recent interview with The Catholic Weekly, Percy reflected on his time with Cardinal Pell, saying, “Cardinal Pell had placed a lot of trust in me and in the formation team” at the seminary. Percy’s enthusiasm and commitment to his role are evident in his words, underscoring the importance of trust and collaboration within the Church’s leadership.
Looking Forward: The International Eucharistic Congress
Bishop-elect Percy expressed his excitement about the upcoming 54th International Eucharistic Congress set to take place in Sydney in 2028. He highlighted the Eucharist’s profound influence on service to those in need, hoping that the event will “release that sort of grace in the Church once again.” This congress underscores the Church’s focus on communal worship and service.
The Road Ahead
The episcopal consecration of Bishop-elect Percy will take place at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney on May 2. This ceremony marks his transition from parish priest to bishop, symbolizing a new phase in his spiritual journey and his leadership within the Archdiocese of Sydney.
The bishop-elect was appointed rector of the Good Shepherd Seminary in Sydney from 2009–2014 by the late Cardinal George Pell and afterward made vicar general of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn from 2014–2023.
We invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts on this significant appointment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about the latest Church news and events. Share this article on social media to spread the word and engage your community.
Leave your comments below, and don’t forget to follow us for continuous updates:
Subscribe now | Share on social media
