The “people’s priest” Father Bob Maguire shall be given a last ship off with the honour of a state funeral.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has confirmed Fr Bob’s has household accepted his authorities’s provide of a state funeral at St Patrick’s Cathedral.
“Victorians will be invited to celebrate the life of Father Bob Maguire at a state funeral, honouring the people’s priest’s generosity, kindness, humour and service to the state,” Mr Andrews mentioned in an announcement.
A date has not but been set for the funeral, with preparations to be organised between his household, the Fr Bob Maguire basis and the state authorities.
Father Bob died on April 10 at Cabrini Hospital at age 88.
“Father Bob was a dear and much loved member of our family and will be sorely missed for his energy and good humour,” his household mentioned in an announcement.
“His physical and mental health had been deteriorating for some time but his preference was always to help others rather than consider his own situation.”
Mr Andrews mentioned Victoria was a “kinder, fairer place because of Father Bob”.
Fr Bob, as a media character, Roman Catholic priest and social justice campaigner, devoted his life to standing up for the poor and marginalised.
He was born in Melbourne on September 14, 1934 and ordained as a priest in 1960 on the age of 25.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among the many first to pay tribute.
“With the passing of Father Bob, we have lost a great Australian. An irrepressibly cheerful champion for all those battling disadvantage, he dedicated his life to brightening the lives of those most in need,” he mentioned.
“A man of warmth and faith who faced struggles with a cheeky grin. May he rest in peace.”
He was parish priest at Saints Peter & Paul’s Catholic Church in South Melbourne from 1973 till his pressured retirement at age 77, in 2012.
He was appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 1989 and was Victorian of Year in 2011.
Source: www.news.com.au
