The deep and faithful service of  Fr Leo Hynes and Fr Michael Morley since their ordination in 1975 was recently acknowledged at the diocesan Jubilarian Mass in Yarrawonga.

Sandhurst clergy, including Bishop Emeritus Leslie Tomlinson, joined parishioners at the Mass to give thanks for the service of Fr Morley and Fr Hynes, and celebrate the gift of priesthood itself, a vocation lived in communion with God, with others and with fellow priests.

Return to Sandpiper e-News 103 (11 July 2025)Reflecting on the occasion, Fr Morley said, “It’s a real privilege to have been part of people’s lives through baptisms, weddings, funerals and everything in between. After 50 years, I can say the priesthood has been good to me — and I hope I’ve been good to it.”

Fr Hynes shared, “There’s been challenge and change, of course, but the heart of the call remains — to walk with people, to pray with them, and to try and be Christ to them.”
Presiding at the Mass, Bishop Shane Mackinlay gave thanks for the steadfast witness of Fr Morley and Fr Hynes, whose priestly lives have been marked by pastoral care, quiet constancy and deep faith.

Bishop Shane also expressed gratitude to the Sacred Heart Parish Choir for their meaningful contribution, and to the Yarrawonga Parish for their warm hospitality.
Clergy gathered for morning tea before the Mass and, later, joined parishioners for a festive lunch at the Mulwala Services Club, where stories were shared, memories exchanged, and laughter filled the room.

The Diocese of Sandhurst holds a Jubilarian Mass to honour priests reaching significant milestones in ministry — 25, 50, or even 60 years. For many, it is a time to reconnect with long-time friends, give thanks for the journey, and renew their shared vocation.

As the Diocese gave thanks for the ministry of Fr Morley and Fr Hynes, the celebration offered quiet inspiration — a reminder that, even in a changing Church, a life given in love continues to speak powerfully.