On Sunday 8th February Bishop Arthur visited St. Robert’s on official visitation.  As the principal shepherd of the diocese, the bishop must routinely visit all the parishes of the diocese.  Since there are so many parishes in the diocese, the last visitation was in April 2002.  Bishop Arthur was the principal celebrant at the 11:30am Mass, taking time in his homily to speak about the various characters the readings presented.  Each of them, he said, faced difficulties and challenges.  Our Lord Himself faced the pressing demands of the huge crowds as His popularity spread.  We, like Jesus, are invited to spend time with the Lord in prayer, re-orienting our lives and receiving the strength to proclaim the Gospel in whatever circumstances we live.  After Mass, Bishop Arthur chatted with many people over a cup of coffee in the parish centre.  We promise him the support of our prayers in his ministry as a successor of the apostles.