The “Installation program” was overseen by the Bishop of Sandhurst, Reverend Shane Mackinlay.
The ceremony involved Father Vijay renewing the vows he took when he was first ordained as a Priest.
Father Vijay said he was delighted to hear the news.
“I got told on the 17th of this month,” Father Vijay said.
“Until recently I was only a temporary resident in Australia, but I got my permanent residency, and because of that the Bishop was very happy and he thought it would be a good idea to appoint me the parish priest of St Joseph’s.
“I belong to a society order from India, originating from the German congregation.
“So my founder comes from Germany and we are all based in different parts of the world.
“I came from the southern part of India, Hyderabad city.
“All my formation and study was done in different states in India. Once I completed (that) I was ordained as a priest.
“And through that I got the opportunity to come to Australia. And as a missionary we come here for a few years.
“But now I have taken this step, I will be here for 10 more years in Australia.”
Father Vijay said he had great feedback from Reverend Shane Mackinlay and the Benalla congregation.
“The congregation were so pleased when they heard. They said now you’re officially our Parish Priest we are so happy,” he said.
“To be here in the beginning I was not accustomed to the culture, the people and the language.
“So it was a bit hard for me at first. But Benalla is such a beautiful town.
“And the people are so nice. They love me so much and they take very good care of me, too.”
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