It is with gratitude and joy that the Diocese of Dunkeld marks the first anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Bishop Andrew McKenzie. One year ago, in the Cathedral Church of St Andrew, clergy, religious, and lay faithful gathered in solemn celebration as Bishop McKenzie was consecrated to serve as shepherd of this historic diocese. The occasion was one of hope and renewal, as he succeeded in bringing his warmth, pastoral sensitivity, and steadfast faith to the heart of the Dunkeld community from the very outset.
This anniversary falls within the extraordinary context of the Holy Year 2025, a time when the universal Church has been called to deepen its communion with Christ, embrace reconciliation, and renew the mission of evangelisation. In his first year as bishop, Bishop McKenzie has encouraged parishes across Dunkeld to enter fully into the grace of this Jubilee, leading diocesan pilgrimages to Rome and fostering local initiatives of prayer, service, and outreach to the poor.
The past year has also been marked by events of immense historical significance for the Church worldwide. In the months following Bishop McKenzie’s ordination, the faithful mourned the death of Pope Francis, whose decade of pontificate inspired countless acts of mercy and reform. His passing was felt deeply in Dunkeld, as Bishop McKenzie led the diocesan Requiem Mass, paying tribute to the late Pontiff’s humble witness to the Gospel.
Soon after, the Church entered into the sacred and solemn period of the papal conclave. From it emerged the election of Pope Leo, whose early ministry has been characterised by a call to rekindle missionary zeal and unity within the Body of Christ. Bishop McKenzie has pledged his prayers and loyalty to the new Holy Father and has encouraged the clergy and faithful of Dunkeld to heed Pope Leo’s invitation to “be bearers of light in an age longing for hope.”
As the Diocese celebrates this first anniversary, there is a profound sense of thanksgiving for Bishop McKenzie’s leadership during a year of both local growth and global change. His ministry—rooted in prayer, marked by compassion, and guided by a commitment to the Gospel—has already left a lasting imprint on the life of the Church in Dunkeld.
May this Holy Year and the years to come be blessed with continued renewal, unity, and faith under the guidance of Bishop McKenzie, in communion with Pope Leo and the universal Church.
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)