Untitled

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXI, Issue 28, 9 July 1903, Page 6

Under the caption, ' Many Happy Rot urns,' the 'Tasmanian News,' of Juno 17, had the following reference to the Grand Old Man of the Australian Hierarchy :—: — ' To-morrow his Grace the Archbishop of Hobart, the senior prelate of the Catholic Church will celebrate his BBth birthday. Born in Ireland on the very day of Napoleon's overthrow at Waterloo, and educated at Maynooth College, young Murphy was ordained a priest on F.mber Saturday, 9th June, 3838, and at once volunteered for mission service abroad, desiring, if possible, to come to Tasmania, or, as it was then called Van Dieman's Land. India, however, was selected as the sphere of his work, and he labored so earnestly that he was appointed coadjutor to the Vicar-Apostolic of Madras, and subsequently became Bishop of Hyderabad. He did magnificent work in the Indian diocese, and only when his health failed did he relinquish it to come to Tasmania His installation took place on May 3, 1866, in St. Joseph's Church. Sixty-five years a priest and 57 a Bishop. Think of the record. Strong of intellect and purpose, unceasing in his care for his flock, zealous in all good works, and esteemed by the whole community as a cultured Christian gentleman, the \enerable Archbishop is at once an example to all mankind. In common with all those who appreciate a career of unusual length — devoted to holy work — we wish Dr. Murphy a continuance of good health during tho years that we trust are still in store for him. His influence and example have blessed the community and promoted the happiness of all sections of the people.'