October, 2004
| Bishop Chris Cardone, currently Auxiliary Bishop of Gizo, has been appointed Bishop of Auki. There he will succeed Bishop Gerard Loft, S.M., recently retired. Bishop Loft was the first Bishop of Auki, a diocese formed on the island of Malaita, Solomon Islands, in 1982. The diocese covers some 4,200 sq. km., (1,600 sq.miles) and has a population of about 130,000 people, of whom 28% are Catholics. Fourteen priests serve in nine parishes. Bishop Chris will probably be installed in his new see in December. It will undoubtedly be with mixed emotions: working in the western Solomons has been a labour of love for him, and he is sure to miss his many friends in the Gizo diocese. Writing of the appointment, Bishop Bernard O'Grady of Gizo said, "It will be a considerable challenge to Chris, but those of you who know him recognise his youthful energy and willingness to 'Serve the Lord with Joy' (his own motto). At the moment he is still in shock as he really hoped to take over in Gizo in due time. That was my expectation too, but Rome thinks differently from us, so he was moved. He will be Malaita's gain and our loss... As Chris was also doing a great job with Education and Youth a lot of our own organising of the Diocese will once again change. ... He was a tremendously loyal support to me, a friend in need..." The prayers of the province go with you in your new task, Bishop Chris! |
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