On 8 December 2023, at his Episcopal Ordination held at the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Hamilton, Bishop Richard Laurenson became the 4th bishop of the Hamilton Diocese.
A native of Hamilton, Bishop Richard grew up in the Cathedral parish, where he was baptised in the Church of the Holy Rosary – was in the first group of Holy Communion Children in the new Church, and was schooled at the Parish Schools of St Mary’s, Marist and St John’s College.
Among other things, Bishop holds a Baccalaureate in Theology from Otago University and a Licentiate in Canon Law from Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome, which informs his pastoral and administrative duties.
Bishop served as priest at various locations including Rotorua, Waihi, Taumarunui, Hamilton City and Papamoa Coast. His extensive experience across these parishes has shaped his pastoral approach and commitment to community engagement.
He has held significant roles within the diocese, including Chancellor, Vicar for Marriage, and Vicar General. He also served as a Judge and Defender of the Bond at the Tribunal of the Catholic Church in New Zealand since 2011.
Bishop Richard spent a decade as a military chaplain, providing spiritual support to service members and their families, including deployments with peacekeeping forces in Bougainville and Timor Leste.
Focus Areas
Bishop Laurenson's leadership style is characterised by a focus on several key areas:
Evangelisation and catechesis, particularly through RCIA and RCIC programs
Promoting "good and Godly liturgy"
Encouraging priestly vocations
Emphasizing parish-based catechesis for adult Catholics
Bishop Richard’s Personal Coat of Arms
The Celtic Cross of my Mother’s (Henry) Family supports the Shield that bears the red chevrons of the Laurenson Family. The Barque refers to both that of Peter and those of my ancestors who arrived here, the first setting foot from HMS Adventure in 1776 rides on The Waters of the Diocese - Holy Water, rivers, lakes and seas. Our life is sustained by Word and Sacrament, transmitting the life of Christ.
The Bishop has taken as his personal motto from the prayer of St. Richard of Chichester, a canon Lawyer also.
Thanks to You, my Lord Jesus Christ, For all the benefits You have given me, For all the pains and insults You have borne for me. O most merciful Redeemer, friend and brother, May I know You more clearly, Love You more dearly, Follow You more nearly, Day by Day. AMEN
