The Catholic Diocese of Townsville is a vibrant community of faith committed to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and serving the people of Townville and its surrounding regions.

Under the pastoral leadership of the Bishop, the Diocese unites parishes, schools, clergy, religious communities, and lay faithful in a shared mission of worship, service, and evangelisation.

Rooted in the rich traditions of the Catholic Church, the Diocese fosters spiritual growth through the celebration of the sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist, and promotes lifelong faith formation for children, youth, and adults. Through its parishes and ministries, the Diocese seeks to build welcoming communities where all people can encounter Christ and grow in discipleship.

The Diocese of Townville is also committed to works of charity and justice, supporting the poor, vulnerable, and marginalised through outreach programs, education, healthcare initiatives, and social services. Inspired by the Gospel values of compassion, dignity, and solidarity, the Diocese strives to be a sign of hope and unity in the wider community.

Guided by prayer and sustained by faith, the Catholic Diocese of Townville continues its mission to serve God’s people with dedication, humility, and love.

The Most Rev. Timothy J. Harris was ordained bishop and installed as the sixth Bishop of Townsville on Wednesday 3 May 2017.

The previous Bishops of Townsville were:

  • T.B. McGuire, 1930 - 1938 (Died 4 July, 1957)

  • H.E. Ryan, 1938 - 1967 (Died 13 November, 1977)

  • L.A. Faulkner, 1967 - 1983 (Died 6 May, 2018)

  • R.C. Benjamin, 1984 - 2000 (Died 6 March, 2016)

  • M.E. Putney, 2001 - 2014 (Died 28 March, 2014)

A brief history....

The Catholic Diocese of Townsville was established on 12 February 1930, when it was separated from the Diocese of Rockhampton to better serve the rapidly growing Catholic population of North Queensland. The Diocese was created to provide more effective pastoral care across the vast and often remote regions of the north.

The first Bishop of Townsville, Bishop Terence Bernard McGuire, guided the Diocese through its formative years, laying foundations for parish development, Catholic education, and missionary outreach. Over time, additional parishes, schools, and church institutions were established to meet the spiritual and educational needs of the community.

Sacred Heart Cathedral in Townsville serves as the mother church of the Diocese and a focal point for major liturgical celebrations and diocesan events.

Throughout its history, the Diocese has ministered to diverse communities, including rural and coastal populations, Indigenous communities, and those in remote areas. Religious orders and lay leaders have played a significant role in developing Catholic education, healthcare, and social services across the region.

Today, the Diocese of Townsville continues its mission of evangelisation, faith formation, and community service across North Queensland, remaining committed to spreading the Gospel and serving the people entrusted to its care.