After 40 years serving the Diocese of Parramatta, it was only fitting that Fr Chris de Souza was acknowledged for his steadfast contribution to the Catholic Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
Having started his new position as General Secretary for the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference in Canberra a few weeks ago, the former Vicar General and Parish Priest of St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, returned to his former parish for one final farewell on a warm and sunny Sunday, 20 August.
“Reflecting on 40 years, I’m incredibly thankful to God for his great mercy and generosity in sharing and allowing me to participate in his priesthood,” Fr Chris told the congregation at Mass.
Former Vicar General and Parish Priest Fr Chris de Souza speaks during his farewell Mass at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, on Sunday 20 August. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“The hymn that has been running in my head that speaks volumes is ‘Amazing Grace’. It is God’s grace and giftedness to me which has helped me be the priest that the Lord wants me to be for His people as ultimately, it’s His Church, His ministry and His priesthood. I’m very grateful.”
Luncheon a ‘worthy’ send-off to a friend
Following Mass, a luncheon was celebrated in Fr Chris’ honour on the grounds of the Diocese’s Holy Spirit Seminary, located next door to St Oliver’s.
Parishioner Jim Hanna, one of the celebration’s organisers, was grateful to those wanting to recognise and acknowledge Fr Chris’ contribution to the Diocese.
Former Vicar General and Parish Priest Fr Chris de Souza during his farewell Mass at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, on Sunday 20 August. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“Everybody is here because they have a personal connection with him as a priest. He brings something nice out in people, so they are all willing to do something nice for him. It’s a worthy send off,” Jim said.
Local politicians acknowledge lasting contribution of Fr Chris
During the farewell, local politicians including the Federal Member for Parramatta Andrew Charlton, NSW Member for Granville Julia Finn and NSW Member for Parramatta Donna Davis commended Fr Chris’ dedication to the Diocese and congratulated him for his appointment to Canberra.
Former Vicar General and Parish Priest Fr Chris de Souza (second right) with Federal Member for Parramatta Andrew Charlton (left), NSW Member for Granville Julia Finn (second left) and NSW Member for Parramatta Donna Davis during his farewell at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, on Sunday 20 August. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“Fr Chris has been a figure of inspiration and support to so many people,” Andrew explained.
Donna added, “the number of people who have gathered here today is a testament to how they feel about Fr Chris and how he has impacted them and the broader Parramatta community. You don’t get gatherings like this unless there’s a sense of gratitude.”
Julia has been a parishioner at St Oliver’s for decades and has developed a strong connection to Fr Chris as her Parish Priest for nine years.
“He is friends with everyone in the parish, which is why there is so many people here,” she said. “It is a huge acknowledgement of him as a theologian that he has this new role with the Australian Bishops.
“He has been a wonderful parish priest and we will miss him a lot.”
Well-wishes from young and old
Numerous parishioners mentioned the significant impact Fr Chris had on their lives, recognising his ability to engage with the different generations of the parish.
Former Vicar General and Parish Priest Fr Chris de Souza (second right) with parishioners during his farewell at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, on Sunday 20 August. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
Young parishioner Nick Tagnipis described Fr Chris as “very genuine and very caring.”
“Over the years, he has always helped me through times of trouble. I always turn to him, and he will always help even though he’s busy. He always makes time for everyone,” he added.
Susie and Phil travelled with Fr Chris to World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany, in 2005 have kept in contact ever since. “Fr Chris is one of those guys who radiates warmth. He is open, loving and has wise words to share. He’s part of our family,” they described.
Continuing the adventure of priesthood
Fr Peter Williams AM, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, detailed Fr Chris’ service to the Diocese of Parramatta since his ordination in 1983 and the establishment of the Diocese of Parramatta in 1986.
“Today, we remember that 40 years ago, he was ordained as a priest alongside ten others. When you are ordained, you never know what God is going to call you to do. This is part of the adventure,” Fr Peter said.
Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Fr Peter Williams AM speaks during the farewell for former Vicar General and Parish Priest Fr Chris de Souza at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, on Sunday 20 August. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
In his words of thanks, Fr Chris thanked his family for their constant prayers and his brother priests for their witness of service during their ministry together.
“To the parish of St Oliver’s, thank you for taking me into your heart to be your priest. It’s been a privilege praying with you and learning about God through you.”
Beckie Lee is a freelance writer and contributor to Catholic Outlook.
View images from Fr Chris’ farewell at St Oliver Plunkett Parish, Harris Park, here or below:
