Pope Francis has made a significant appointment by naming Father Anthony Gerard Percy, who was born in Cooma, as the new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Sydney. Percy’s appointment now brings a local connection to the leadership of the Sydney Church.
PHOTO: Bishop-Elect Fr Tony Percy in his Q&A interview with the Archdiocese Canberra-Goulburn.
Acknowledging his new role in a Q&A with the Archdiocese Canberra-Goulburn, Bishop-Elect Fr Tony Percy expressed his initial surprise and subsequent acceptance, stating, “I have been asked by the holy father, to be one of the auxiliary bishops of Sydney, the Archdiocese of Sydney.”
“Naturally enough, I was quite shocked, but since that time I’ve found a fair bit of peace and courage.”
Percy’s journey to this esteemed appointment began in Cooma, and has seen him minister across six parishes, including St. Mary’s Parish in Young and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ariah Park.
Ordained in 1990, he has been a dedicated servant of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, where he found joy in his priestly duties, saying he felt as though he “never worked a day.”
Educated at The Catholic University of America, where he obtained a doctorate specialising in marriage, Percy also served as rector of the Good Shepherd Seminary in Sydney, appointed by the late Cardinal George Pell. His far-reaching influence in priestly formation was evident during his tenure as vicar general from 2014 to 2023.
Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher warmly welcomed Percy’s appointment, expressing his gratitude for the addition of such a “good and faith-filled priest” to the archdiocese.
Percy’s episcopal consecration is scheduled for May 2, the feast of St Athanasius, at St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.
Percy approaches his new role with enthusiasm and hopes to “help the church spread the love of Jesus Christ” in Sydney. His anticipation for the 54th International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney in 2028 reflects his commitment to rejuvenating the Church’s mission.