Pray For The Eternal Soul Of The Most Reverend William Wright, Bishop of Newcastle

The Bishop Of Maitland-Newcastle Has Succumbed To Lung Cancer At The Age Of 69.

Laudetur Iesus Christus.

Bishop William (Bill) Wright died today, Saturday 13 November, in Maitland Hospital, having succumbed to lung cancer at the age of 69.

Bishop Bill Wright.

In September this year, Bishop Bill announced his ill health and confirmed he had submitted his resignation to the Holy Father, Pope Francis. Whilst he had confirmed his ill health, the speed of Bishop Bill’s death was unexpected.

Bishop Bill was ordained eighth Bishop of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle on 15 June 2011 at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Hamilton.

Acknowledging his death, Reverend Father Andrew Doohan, Vicar General of the Diocese, said, “Bishop Bill was a warm, considered and deeply faithful man, he was always dedicated to the people of the Diocese, and I know he served as an inspiration, not only for many of our clergy but also those in the places he served. He will be greatly missed.”

“Bishop Bill was an active and respected member of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference. He made major contributions to the Church and the wider communities in which he ministered.”

Details of Bishop Bill’s funeral have not yet been finalised.

Pray For The Eternal Soul of The Most Reverend William Joseph Wright, Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Arts with Honours, Doctor of Divinity, Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle.