I just wanted to say how grateful I am to you all for coming; and to offer sincere thanks to everyone who’s had a part in preparing this wonderful celebration.

I was aware how long the Diocese had been waiting for a Bishop.

So I wanted us to have the Installation as soon as we could.

But I’m conscious how much pressure that has put on certain individuals to put everything into place in time.

I marvel at the way everyone has stepped up to the mark.

I would wish to thank in particular our Dean, Canon Mark O’Keeffe, for the way he’s coordinated all the arrangements for today and to all who’ve worked with him to provide for us a such a special celebration.

The person for whom loudest thanks are surely due this day must be our outgoing Diocesan Administrator, Canon Paul Cummins.

Paul, it’s clear to me that the Diocese shall be in your eternal debt for the selfless way in which you’ve led the whole Diocesan community these last three and a half years.

These last few weeks, I’ve experienced myself the quality of your leadership as you’ve done everything you possibly could to induct me.

Paul, it’s clear, from all the reports I hear of your leadership, that what you have achieved has been simply outstanding.

And I want you to know we salute you and we congratulate you.

I’d like, in the same breath, to thank all those who’ve come alongside Paul so willingly to support him – the Curial Team for Mission, all who exercise particular responsibilities in the Diocese; and, in a special way, the Clergy.  Dear Fathers, dear Deacons, I look forward to meeting you all in your Deaneries and then individually as soon as I am able.  I look forward to hearing what’s been your experience of these last several years; and what it tells us about the ways in which we might develop as a community of faith.

I’ve always liked Pope Francis’s description of the bishop.

“The bishop … will sometimes go before his people,” he suggests, pointing the way and keeping their hope vibrant.  At other times, he will simply be in their midst with his unassuming and merciful presence.  At yet other times, he will have to walk after them, helping those who lag behind and –  above all – allowing the flock to strike out on new paths.”

I look forward to being with you in all three places – but to beginning in your midst and hearing your aspirations for the Diocese.

It’s wonderful to see representatives of every parish here present.

Thank you to all who’ve travelled significant distances to be here.

And I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible after this Mass and in the weeks and months to come.