WelCom February/March 2025
Knowing My Place: An Autobiography in 3-D by Bishop Emeritus of Palmerston North is an autobiography he published in 2023. The book shares an in-depth insight and account of his rich, interesting and faith-filled life.
Published on the back cover, the following words are from Bishop Peter’s good friend the late Cardinal Thomas Williams Archbishop Emeritus of Wellington:
In March 1980, Pope John Paul II created the Diocese of Palmerston North and appointed a priest-theologian Peter Cullinane as its founding bishop.
In his autobiography, Bishop Cullinane has shared his personal story and also provided insights into the first forty years of the new diocese’s life and history. His faithfulness to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and his leadership in liturgy formation, ecumenical relationships and work for social justice brought the benefit to his own diocese, but also to the New Zealand Catholic Bishops’ Conference, and further afield.
Ten years into his episcopate, Peter suffered a massive heart attack, resulting in considerable and inoperable damage. That he was able to continue until his retirement, at seventy-five years, to lead the diocese so effectively is testimony to his courage and commitment. This is a very human story, and witness to the risen Christ.
The A5, 100-page book, is available for purchase at $24.99 from Pleroma Christian Supplies [christiansupplies.co.nz] or email Bishop Peter at pjcullinane@xtra.co.nz to purchase a copy.
A new writing presented to WelCom by Bishop Peter Cullinane entitled Formation for Being Human: Taking our Cue from Faith and Reason Together, explores the gift of human life in a faith and ethical context. It is available to read online.