Pope appoints Fr Tony Percy as Sydney’s new Auxiliary Bishop
Fr Tony Percy
Pope Francis has appointed Father Tony Percy, currently the parish priest of St Gregory’s Parish, Queanbeyan, as the next auxiliary bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney.
The announcement has been met with excitement across the Catholic community, with Fr. Percy describing the appointment as unexpected and humbling.
“Last Thursday, I was visited by the Apostolic Nuncio, Charles Balvo. Unaware of his visit’s purpose, I was surprised when he said, “The Holy Father has asked you to take on this role. Will you accept?”
“Naturally, I was quite shocked, but since then, I’ve found a fair bit of peace and courage,” he said.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse has expressed joy and gratitude in response to Pope Francis’ appointment.
“The Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn rejoices that Pope Francis has chosen one of our own priests to serve as a bishop,” Archbishop Prowse said.
“Although the appointment is not entirely surprising, it will mean that Fr. Percy will leave our Archdiocese and take up episcopal responsibilities in the Sydney Archdiocese.”
“We thank Fr Tony for his dedicated priestly service to this Archdiocese for up to 35 years.”
“His priestly ministry and many charisms have served the Archdiocese with holiness and gospel energy. We will be forever grateful. We assure him of our prayers and blessings in this Jubilee Year of Hope.”
Fr. Percy’s extensive priestly career has equipped him well for this new role.
Ordained in December 1990, he began his ministry in Young, Queanbeyan, and Goulburn locations. After a period of advanced study in the United States, earning a Doctorate in Sacred Theology, Fr. Percy returned to serve as rector of the Good Shepherd Seminary under the invitation of the late Cardinal George Pell.
Following his term as seminary rector, Fr Percy returned to Canberra and served as the Archdiocesan Vicar General from 2015-2023. During that time, he also served as parish priest at Wanniassa and then—until this appointment—as the parish priest of St Gregory’s, Queanbeyan.
Addressing the potential complexities of navigating public life as a bishop, Fr. Percy reflected on the examples set by early church leaders.
“I have always held deep admiration for bishops like St. Ambrose and St. Athanasius,” he remarked. “Their unwavering faith and remarkable courage extended beyond spiritual leadership, impacting their civic responsibilities as well.”
Fr. Percy has been a vocal advocate on civic matters, particularly during the ACT Government’s 2023 takeover of Calvary Hospital.
Under his leadership, the Archdiocesan’s “Save Calvary” campaign gathered over 50,000 signatures, highlighting his commitment to defending religious freedom and property rights.
Fr. Percy’s parishioners in Queanbeyan have responded with excitement and bittersweet emotions.
“The parish life has been terrific, so I’ll miss the direct involvement. There are so many good people here, so many cultures,” Fr. Percy said of his current community.
Archbishop Anthony Fisher has welcomed Fr Percy’s appointment warmly, underscoring his qualifications.
“I’ve known Fr Tony for many years and know him to be a man of deep faith, joy, and courage,” Archbishop Fisher said.
“I’m grateful to the Holy Father for choosing another good and faith-filled priest to serve as a bishop in our Archdiocese.”
Fr. Percy’s episcopal consecration will take place on Friday, May 2, 2025, the Feast day of St Athanasius at St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.
Great inspired (ie of the Spirit) choice!
Congratulations to Fr. Percy .So sad to miss him in ACT–The way he spoke out against the pollies in the hospital takeover was so sorely needed to keep the current crop in check and hopefully dismissed in next election is sorely needed .People are just wishing for change . They are waking up to the ungodly behaviour of the people leading us.The Church needs to help us speak out. Many groups are trying, but being largely ignored as the media are not disclosing the truth..God Bless you Father and keep up your courage to help Australia go in a Christian direction.I will pray for you.Please be outspoken prior to this election.We are at a critical turning point.Need major change esp., to draw attention to long term abortion….
Congratulations Father Percy! This is wonderful news!
Congratulations, Fr Tony. You’re a treasure to God. Much deserved and we wish you God’s wisdom and protection. Every blessing, Deacon Mick and Cora
We are overjoyed to hear that Pope Francis has appointed Fr Tony as Auxiliary Bishop of the Sydney Archdiocese. We have known Father for many years. We have always enjoyed our conversations with him and his warm caring personality.
We wish him many blessings in his new role.
Gavin and Esther O’Brien.
Congratulations, sorry to see you go BUT the appointment is terrific. God Speed.
How truly wonderful reinforces my belief in the movement of the Spirit in our Holy Father to make a truly inspiring and inspired appointment .
Congratulations to Father Percy – our loss their gain
Wonderful news and congratulations Fr Percy. You will be deeply missed from the Queanbeyan Parish and the Archdiocese of course, but no doubt you will serve with distinction as a Bishop.
Prayerful best wishes for your episcopal ministry in Sydney.
Once again Congratulations Father Tony, The parish of St. Gregory’s will miss you greatly. We will look at the votive candles in front of Our Lady’s altar in St Raphael and think of you. Such a wonderful addition you added to the church and of course the magnificent altar holding the Tabernacle. May God bless you always and give you strength and courage in your new journey. Blessings. Ann Hill
Very pleased to see my good friend and mentor be appointed. God speed.
Thanks to Fr. Tony for being the voice of quiet Catholics. I suppose they wanted a good listener for the role. It’s sad to see him go, but he goes with much affection. May God hold him in His palm.
Pleased to see my good friend and mentor has been appointed a bishop. He was always very pastoral – especially to autistics like me. God speed.
Blessings on your journey…..Sydney gain.. stay safe and we’ll..Judy. Grenfell