I am delighted that Fr Tim Norton SVD, a member of the SVD Australia Province, has been appointed by Pope Francis to be Auxiliary Bishop of Brisbane.

Tim will be an exciting and extremely capable bishop. As a missionary and a former Provincial, he will bring to this ministry a wealth of experience in Church leadership both at the universal and local level.

At this time when the Church in Australia, through the Plenary Council, is striving to become a more missionary Church, inclusive, merciful and compassionate, Tim’s personal gifts and missionary experience are right for the times.

Tim’s extensive work in the area of interculturality, both locally and around the world, will also be of immense value to his episcopal ministry.

Tim will be the first SVD member to be appointed a bishop in Australia and his appointment is an occasion of great joy and thanksgiving for the Province.

Fr Asaeli Rass SVD,

Provincial.