Prayer

The Spanish Catholic community of the Diocese of Wollongong recently gathered to celebrate a momentous occasion—the 85th birthday of Fr John Pickering, a beloved priest who has devoted 57 years to his ministry. This celebration is a heartfelt tribute to Fr John’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and service, particularly towards the disadvantaged, marginalised, and those in need. His ministry, rooted in the principles of his Franciscan vocation, has left a lasting impact on the many communities he has touched throughout his years of service.

One of the pivotal moments in Fr John’s priesthood came early in his ministry when he sought to better serve the deaf community. His first attempt to celebrate Mass for the deaf in Brisbane led him to realise the need for specialised skills to reach these faithful. Motivated by this, Fr John pursued a diploma in Special Education and learned AUSLAN, Australia’s sign language, allowing him to provide pastoral care to the deaf and those with disabilities in both Brisbane and Wollongong. His heart for those often overlooked became a cornerstone of his service.

In 1983, Fr John received a call to assist a dying Colombian woman in Campbelltown, marking the beginning of his dedicated work with the Spanish-speaking community. Moved by the challenges faced by migrants, he began celebrating Spanish-language Masses in the mid-1980s, a ministry that continues to this day. His Masses provided not just spiritual nourishment but also a sense of belonging for Spanish-speaking migrants who were far from home.

Fr John’s outreach extended beyond Australia. In 1987, he worked closely with a committee that sought to support communities in Latin America affected by natural disasters. For over two decades, this committee helped provide aid to organisations in countries such as Colombia, Bolivia, Nicaragua, and Mexico. Through his efforts, Fr John has touched countless lives both locally and internationally.

In recognition of his service, Fr John was appointed Chaplain to the Spanish-speaking community in 1998, and that same year, he was honoured by the Chilean Consul in Sydney for his contributions to the Chilean community of the Illawarra. His involvement with various cultural groups and his ongoing pastoral care for the elderly, particularly Spanish-speaking residents in nursing homes, highlights his enduring commitment to service.

As Fr John celebrates his 85th birthday, his dedication to the Diocese of Wollongong and beyond remains a source of inspiration for many. His influence has been felt across communities, from the deaf and disabled to migrants and those in aged care. Even in his later years, Fr John continues his ministry, supported by volunteers and the wider community, who assist him with transportation and visits during his times of convalescence.

The celebration of Fr John’s life and ministry serves as a reminder of the impact that one individual can have on the lives of many. The Diocese of Wollongong is deeply grateful for Fr John’s years of service, and we join the Spanish-speaking community in wishing him continued blessings of health, peace, and strength in his priestly journey.