Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I am happy to inform you that as from 8th July 2020 I am back in Dunedin Diocese and taking up again my duties as bishop. I wish to thank Fr Gerard Aynsley in his role of Vicar General for representing me during this time. I am very grateful for the prayers and messages of support that I received from many of you during my time away.
It was on the 3rd May of this year that I wrote a letter indicating that I was taking time from my duties as bishop for personal and spiritual renewal. This was not an easy decision for me to make but looking back it was the right one for my ongoing health. This experience has reminded me that when I am in difficulty then I need to reach out for help from others and most of all for help from God. This is a message that I believe is important for us all to be aware
of, especially in the difficult times we live in. I look forward to travelling around the Diocese to visit the parishes and schools and to catch up with as many of you as I can. This year of 2020 has been a challenging year for us all but with the support of each other and with God’s grace we move forward with hope. Once again thank you for your prayers and support.
Yours in Christ
+Michael Dooley
Bishop of Dunedin
2020-07-17