A NEW CHAPTER IN OUR CATHOLIC STORY: WELCOMING ARCHBISHOP TONY IRELAND

With gratitude and great hope, we celebrate the appointment of Bishop Tony Ireland as the new Archbishop of Hobart. Bishop Ireland steps into the role with a wealth of pastoral experience, theological depth, and a deep and enduring commitment to Catholic education. His appointment invites us to reflect on the mission of Catholic schools in Tasmania and the unique identity of St Thomas More’s within that tapestry.

Archbishop-elect Ireland’s background as a moral theologian, seminary rector, and contributor to the National Catholic Education Commission, speaks to a leader formed in wisdom and service. He is no stranger to the spiritual and intellectual life of Catholic schools, and we are delighted to know that our students, staff, and families will benefit from his presence; not just ceremonial, but physical, spiritual, pastoral, and influential.

Each year, our school is honoured to host the Catholic Education Week Mass and Northern Region Awards Ceremony. These are not merely formalities; they are sacred moments where our identity as a Catholic learning community is affirmed and renewed. Bishop Ireland, like his predecessor Archbishop Julian Porteous, will preside over these events; walking among our students, praying with our staff, and championing the mission of Catholic education in the north of the state.

As the shepherd of our Archdiocese, Bishop Ireland continues the positive legacy of Archbishop Porteous, whose commitment to youth evangelisation and parish renewal was deeply felt across Tasmania. At the same time, his appointment reflects the spirit of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy; a spirit grounded in synodality, compassion, and a call to serve with both head and heart. In Archbishop-elect Ireland, we see a pastor who listens, leads, and learns.

We pray that his leadership will help us grow ever deeper in faith and learning. And as a school named after St Thomas More, a man of conscience, courage, and conviction; we look forward to walking alongside our new Archbishop as we continue to foster greatness in every child entrusted to our care.

The official installation ceremony will be held on Tuesday 12th August at St Mary’s Cathedral, Hobart, where Archbishop-elect Tony Ireland will be formally sworn in as the 12th Archbishop of Hobart.

Mr Casimir Douglas

Monday 23rd June, 2025