Ringing the church bell signaled the start of the Eucharist on Sunday, 16 November 2025, as the Catholic Parish of Whanganui gathered to celebrate Fr John Roberts’ 80th birthday, thank him for 47 years of ministry, and mark his semi-retirement.
Over 250 people filled St Mary’s Church for the 9:30 a.m. Mass, presided over by Fr John, Bishop John Adams, Parish Priest Fr Craig Butler, and Monsignor Dave Bell. A scrumptious lunch followed in the hall, with numbers swelling to 300.
The highlight was a parish version of This Is Your Life, hosted by Nick Wilson, Director of Pastoral Services. Two couches on stage set the scene for stories and surprises. Messages included warm wishes from Fr John’s sister Mary in Auckland, who could not be present. Born in Auckland and raised in Featherston, Fr John attended Huntley boarding school and Whanganui Collegiate before entering St Paul’s Seminary in Sydney as a late vocation. He was ordained in Upper Hutt in 1978.
Alan West, an Anglican and lifelong friend since their Victoria University days, recalled how their friendship endured even after John became Catholic. Monsignor Bell praised Fr John’s ministry to the elderly, hospital patients, and youth, and his loyalty to the Diocese since its formation in 1980.
Martin Beech and Kevin Foley shared memories from Holy Family Parish, noting Fr John’s pride in his priestly role and his support for Sacramental programmes. Martin added that, as a fifth-generation farmer, he once thought John might follow his parents into medicine — but God had other plans.
Mike O’Sullivan spoke of Fr John’s impact during the International Catholic Programme of Evangelization in Wellington, while Helen Dougherty read a message from Mother Phillippa Mary of Tyburn Monastery, calling him “a devoted friend with a compassionate heart.”
Pip Grant acknowledged his 15 years as chaplain for St John’s Whanganui and his induction into the Order of St John of Jerusalem, presenting him with a medical alarm bracelet. Youth Minister Rain Shore and Victoria Arrowsmith expressed gratitude for his encouragement of young people and his willingness to share coffee and conversation — though one café owner mistook him for their grandfather!
Kuia Moewai Hyland shared of Fr John’s deep faith, heartfelt emotions and personal warmth: “He serves with God’s divine love.”
Overwhelmed, Fr John thanked everyone: “This has brought back many memories. It’s wonderful to celebrate this milestone with you all.”
Afternoon tea concluded the day.
