On Saturday the 22^nd February the Most Reverend Phillip Aspinall, Archbishop of Brisbane, Bishops of the Anglican Dioceses of the Province of Queensland, many clergy, our own Bishop Michael, family and parishioners from various cities in the diocese gathered at St Paul’s Cathedral to give praise and thanks to God for the many blessings on the diocese through the ministry and service of Bishop David Robinson and his wife Jan.

It was during this celebration that Bishop David formally lay down on the Communion Table the Pastoral Staff of the Diocese of Rockhampton, saying these words:

“I, David, Bishop in the Church of God, received this Pastoral Staff as the twelfth Bishop of Rockhampton, five and a half years ago.  It had before then been carried by eleven predecessors.  Having now completed my ministry by the Grace of God, and praying that when the Chief Shepherd appears I may not be found wanting,  I return this staff to the diocese, in anticipation of it being handed on to the thirteenth Bishop of Rockhampton once elected.”

While gentle music played the Bishop knelt in silent prayer. Bishop David then prayed that God would give Rockhampton a new Shepherd after His own heart, to walk His ways and lovingly care for His people.

Archbishop Aspinall then thanked Bishop Robinson for his leadership and dedication as he guided the Diocese through many changes and challenges.  He also thanked Jan for her enthusiastic participation in the mission. The Archbishop hoped that Bishop David and Jan would have a long holiday and many more experiences on the top of the mountain.  He then gave them his Blessing.

After expressing the gratitude and best wishes from the diocese, Mrs Margo Purcell, Diocesan chancellor and Canon David Rees, ex Registrar presented Bishop David and Jan a painting which was commissioned from artist Rainman Boland.  This very creative painting depicted the area of Central Queensland included in the Rockhampton diocese.

All were then invited to gather in the Cathedral Centre for light refreshments and fellowship.

Mrs Barbara Smith, Personal Assistant of the Bishop presented a photographic memorabilia and messages from every parish in the diocese, as well as significant events such as Bishop David’s consecration, ordinations, installations and confirmation mission trips and ministry programs. 

Many speeches followed.  The gratitude and love of the community were summed up appropriately in the words of the Venerable Tom Henderson-Brooks who said,

“We have been greatly blessed and encouraged by Bishop David’s leadership over the last five and a half years”.  He has served the church and the local community with wisdom, integrity, a great sense of humour and much grace. He has pointed us all towards Jesus. Bishop David, together with his vibrant and compassionate wife Jan, will be greatly missed”.

Bishop David was invited to respond.  He said, “It has been a great privilege to serve God in Central Queensland.   Jan and I will leave Rockhampton with many memories. In our five and a half years here, we have made many friends and will be sad to leave them behind”.

The students from The Cathedral College who had served the guests so gracefully were invited to come forward and were thanked with great acclamation.

Bishop David’s final service was held at 11.00am on Saturday 22nd February in the newly reopened St Paul’s Cathedral.

Bishop David and his wife Jan will be retiring to the Hunter Valley region.

Sr Beryl Amedee rsm