Local lad appointed Pastor of his local Church

Fr David Catterall (33) has recently been appointed the new pastor of the Catholic community of St Pauls Church, Albion Park.

Such appointments to parish communities are not uncommon, however Fr Davids appointment is unique, because he has been asked by Bishop Peter Ingham (Catholic Bishop of Wollongong) to be the pastoral leader of the parish where he grew up.

Fr David grew up in Oak Flats, attending Oak Flats Public School and St Josephs Catholic High School, Albion Park. Fr David also regularly attended Church services in St Pauls Church, Albion Park from his birth until he left to begin his studies for the priesthood at the age of 19. Fr David was ordained a priest in March 2000, and celebrated his first Mass in St Pauls. Fr David has ministered in the parishes of Wollongong, Nowra, Campbelltown, Rosemeadow and Camden.

I am pleased to be appointed to my home-parish, Fr David said. It is wonderful to be able to lead and serve a faith community that along with my parents and family, nurtured my decision to become a priest.

Fr David is one of the youngest pastors of any Catholic parish in Australia. His in interest in technology and making closer links with the civic community has resulted in the parish exploring the production of a parish website and a revamped parish newsletter.

Following his diagnosis with breast cancer in 2000 (that is now in remission) Fr David believes his personal experience of ill-health has helped him to associate more closely with the sick and suffering. When asked about his mandate for his ministry in Albion Park, Fr David said that he strives to help all the members of the parish to see that they are called to work together to make Christ better known and loved in the local community especially through reaching out to those who are sick or in need.

As well as his two parents still living in the parish, Fr Davids niece is in Kindergarten at St Pauls Parish Primary school which is also under his leadership and pastoral care.

Fr David looks forward in serving the Catholic community of Albion Park for many years to come.