News from Father Paul

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Dear <<First Name*>>

As you would be aware, Father Paul Chandler has been away from us for a few months. Father Paul has advised us in recent days that he won't be returning to the Brisbane Oratory in Formation. This is, of course, sad news for us, the Oratory community and our parishioners. However, we are also pleased that Father Paul has found peace in his decision.

It is appropriate to record here our deep gratitude to Father Paul for his time among us, and for his contribution as one of the founding Fathers of the Brisbane Oratory in Formation project. There are several things which should be singled out: his faithful contribution to our parish work and ministry, his service as our first Moderator, his leadership and oversight of three very successful and enjoyable Vallicella Dinners, and his inspiring leadership in the Frassati fraternity which has been so influential in the lives of many young (and not so young) people.

We acknowledge that this will be disappointing news for many in our community, who will miss Father Paul's presence and ministry. However, with gratitude we will pray for him as he continues his priestly ministry in other places, and we look forward to his continued friendship with us and those occasions when he can visit us here at Annerley.

Father Paul has supplied a message which now follows.

MESSAGE FROM FATHER PAUL CHANDLER

September 19th 2016

In June of this year, I was granted extended leave of 3 months by the Archbishop and the Oratory Community. That time is drawing to a close. The last three months have been ones of priestly ministry at the Cathedral in Armidale as well as a most welcome recovery of my health and well-being. It has also been a time of spiritual discernment.

I wish to announce that after due prayer and reflection I will not be returning to the Brisbane Oratory in Formation. For the immediate future I will remain in Armidale until there is more clarity about my next appointment.

I express my humble gratitude to Almighty God for having brought me to be part of this significant project of founding the first Oratory of St Philip in Australia. I have received many personal and vocational graces over the recent years.

I am also immensely grateful to the Fathers and Brothers of the Oratory for their companionship and support. It is my hope and prayer that the future of the Brisbane Oratory will be blessed in many ways, as has its first beginnings.

I wish also to record my deep gratitude to the Archbishop for his understanding and gracious support at this time and over the recent trying months.

I could not conclude without acknowledging the unpayable debt I owe to the many generous and kind parishioners and supporters of the Oratory. You have showed me untold kindnesses and given me immense encouragement. Thank you.

I move into the future, not with full clarity, but a great deal of spiritual peace.

Let us continue to pray for each other.

Fr Paul W Chandler

If you would like to send a message to Father Paul, please email enquiries@brisbane-oratory.org and we'll ensure he receives it.

FRASSATI CHAPLAIN

During Father Paul's time of leave, Father Scot Armstrong has been the acting chaplain to Frassati. The Oratory community has appointed Father Scot as the permanent chaplain to Frassati in our parish.

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