Bishop Anthony Ireland has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Hobart, becoming one of the first bishops selected by Pope Leo XIV.
The appointment, which sees Ireland succeed Archbishop Julian Porteous, will be officially installed at St Mary’s Cathedral today..
“It’s a joy to be invited to become the Archbishop of Hobart. A surprise, but a joyful surprise,” Ireland said.
Ireland was recommended for the position by Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost before he became Pope Leo XIV, when he was serving as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
“Pope Leo accepted his own recommendation in appointing me,” Ireland explained.
Ordained in 1987, Ireland brings 38 years of priestly experience to the role, having served as seminary rector and lecturer in theology.
When asked about his vision, Ireland said he is focusing on unity and service.
“I would like to be a bishop for the people. I would like to come and serve the people, to love the people, and to be a faithful ambassador for Christ,” he said.
The new Archbishop said both prayer and practical service are vital, recounting his experiences helping homeless people in Melbourne.
“Anyone who wants to sit in a big chair like that … has to be someone who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and serve the poor as well,” he said.
Ireland described himself as a “shy person” who had a gradual path to priesthood, entering the seminary as a “late vocation” after university and work experience.
