On a warm Broome evening on the expansive grounds of St Mary’s College in the presence of people
from all over the Kimberley and a large number of Australian Dioceses, Bishop Tim Norton SVD was
installed as the third Bishop of Broome.
Setting the scene, the Apostolic Administrator Bishop Michael Morrissey described the local season of Laja, a buildup of hot and humid weather which offers the promise of the wet season of rain and growth. Bishop Michael linked this season with the installation of Bishop Tim Norton.
Over 400 people including 18 bishops gathered to participate in a culturally rich liturgy with
Aboriginal elements including a smoking from Yawuru elders, a welcome to country, water blessing
with local languages included in some of the hymns and a blessing of Bishop Tim by church leaders and all those present.
One of the key messages from Bishop Tim’s homily was the importance of listening, particularly to
the powerless ones, the ones who have no voice. “If we listen, particularly if we do it together we
can be changed ,” he said. The liturgy flowed from the undercover area, becoming a gathering on the nearby lawns where food and fellowship was shared.
At the conclusion of the installation ceremony Bishop Tim had invited the Diocese to be a part of building the future. He said, “I’m here for ministry and healing, listening, working, praying and I’m here for having some fun with you as well. Whatever it takes I’m really really happy to be with you here in the Kimberley".

Link to Installation Liturgy Booklet (PDF)

Link to Gallery of images of the Installation