mmg.com.au

This Sunday will be Fr Brian Rowland’s last time leading the service at St Michael’s Catholic Church.

Following the Sunday Mass, Fr Rowland (pictured) will officially retire.

While he has only been in Deniliquin since January 2011, he has made an impression on many.

St Michael’s school principal Bernadette Murphy said he has ‘‘touched the lives of parishioners in Broken Hill, Hillston, Forbes, Barham, Balranald, Narromine, Trundle and Deniliquin’’, in a speech she made at his farewell last month.

‘‘While your association with the St Michael’s Parish and school may be only two years, the qualities of respect, compassion, trust and hope encompass the ministry you have held during you years as a priest,’’ she said at the celebration.

‘‘You truly have integrated the spirit and teachings of the gospel in your leadership of our Catholic faith.

‘‘Fr Brian, you are a person of great faith and wisdom, dedicated to God’s work and the service of God’s people.’’

December 16 saw Fr Rowland celebrate 46 years since he was ordained a priest in Rome.

Once he retires he plans to move to Woy Woy on the central coast of NSW.

The 72 year-old said his retirement was because of health reasons.

‘‘I’ve enjoyed living in Deniliquin and I’ve enjoyed the parish,’’ he said.

‘‘The river and bush around here is great too.

He initially moved to Deniliquin for ‘‘a change’’ in scenery and plans to visit again in the future.