Father Mark moves on after many highlights

DEARLY DEPARTING: Father Mark Field is leaving Rotorua after seven years as parish priest at St Mary's and St Michael's Catholic churches. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER 230714SP5

A persistent niggle persuaded Father Mark Field to enter the priesthood in his late 40s.

Now the former teacher takes the next step with a move to Tauranga after seven years serving the parishioners at St Mary's and St Michael's Catholic churches in Rotorua.

He will take up his role as parish priest at St Mary Immaculate on Monday.

The warmer winters were welcomed but the transfer after seven years in the city was not being looked upon as a promotion, he said.

"It's just another parish although slightly bigger than Rotorua."

There have been many wonderful highlights and he will miss the St Mary's and St Michael's communities, he said.

"I joined the priesthood because I had this niggle that I would be too old if I didn't do it before I was too old.

"Rotorua was my first parish and this is my only experience as a priest.

"I have just been very fortunate to have been part of a whole lot of very privileged times with people whether it has been baptisms, funerals, anniversaries or weddings.

"There have been times of sadness as well when you are brought suddenly and intimately into family's lives very quickly."

The vocation can be lonely, and the hours long - up to 70 hours a week at times - but the interaction with parishioners from the different communities in Rotorua has been rewarding.

"I've really enjoyed working with the Maori community, and the Filipino and Tokelau communities, as well as the three schools - John Paul College, St Mary's and St Michael's - I am involved with."

He said one of the most interesting parts of his work is the uncertainty of what will happen on any given day.

"The phone can start ringing at breakfast and won't stop until 10pm - there are calls from hospital, from people in crisis looking for help, and sudden deaths.

"Other days it can be quieter but there are school meetings to attend, parish councils and finances to administer."

Parishioners have been very supportive to help ease the pressure, and from time to time the priests in the diocese also get together for reflection, he said.

The 40 stained glass windows which encircle the interior of St Mary's was testament to the generosity and will of the parishioners, he said.

The Catholic Church faced large issues - none more so than the declining numbers of priests in New Zealand, contrary to trends overseas, he said.

"What stands out is the close bond we have with the Anglican Church in Rotorua, which you won't see in other centres," said Father Mark.

Father Mark's last mass will be heard tomorrow.

Father Eamon Kennedy of Hamilton has been chosen as his replacement while Father Jelo will remain in Rotorua.