Catholics welcome Bishop Anthony

JOHOR BARU: The Catholic community has welcomed Rev Father Anthony Bernard Paul (pic) as the newly appointed bishop-elect of the Malacca-Johor diocese following Bishop Paul Tan’s retirement.

 

Bishop Tan, 75, announced yesterday that the former parish priest of the Cathedral of Holy Spirit and vicar-general II of the Penang diocese was Rome’s choice to replace him.

Bishop Anthony has served in several roles including as parish vicar, priest, vicar-general for pastoral life, diocesan head for vocations, chairman of the college of consulters and council of priests after being ordained in 1989.

Bishop Anthony said he was happy over the new appointment but admitted being anxious about undertaking the task.

“I am aware of my own inadequacies and limitations and I’m aware of the magnitude of my new role and the responsibilities that comes with it,” he said.

Bishop Anthony said that youth, family and inter-religious cooperation would be among his areas of focus when he officially takes over in January next year.

He said he would also hold more inter-faith dialogues to foster greater understanding among Malaysians.

“As a start, my immediate concern is to get to know the followers in the two states, “ he said.

He would be officially ordained as Bishop at the Persada International Convention Centre here on Jan 12.