1. Leadership and Vision:
* Founder and First Archbishop of Sydney: Polding played a crucial role in establishing the Catholic Church in Australia. He was appointed the first Archbishop of Sydney in 1834, and his leadership was instrumental in organizing and developing the Church in the fledgling colony.
* Visionary Leader: Polding had a clear vision for the future of the Church in Australia. He believed in building a strong and vibrant Catholic community, and he worked tirelessly to achieve this goal. He emphasized the importance of education, establishing numerous schools and colleges across the continent.
2. Devotion and Faith:
* Deeply Religious: Polding was known for his unwavering faith and deep devotion to Catholicism. He dedicated his life to serving the Church and was deeply respected by both clergy and laity.
* Commitment to the Poor and Marginalized: He was passionate about serving the needs of the poor and marginalized, particularly immigrants and indigenous Australians. He established orphanages, hospitals, and other charitable institutions to help those in need.
3. Resilience and Determination:
* Overcoming Challenges: Polding faced numerous challenges throughout his life, including financial constraints, limited resources, and conflicts with colonial authorities. He remained resilient and persevered in his mission to build a strong Catholic Church in Australia.
* Dedicated to his Cause: Despite the difficulties he faced, he remained committed to his cause and never gave up on his vision.
4. Diplomacy and Negotiation:
* Skilled Negotiator: Polding was a skilled diplomat and negotiator. He was able to work with both the colonial government and the Vatican to secure funding and resources for the Church.
* Building Relationships: He fostered positive relationships with various individuals and groups, helping to promote understanding and cooperation between Catholics and other communities.
5. Educational Vision:
* Importance of Education: Polding recognized the importance of education in shaping the future of the Church. He established numerous schools and colleges, including St Mary's Cathedral College in Sydney, which became a leading institution of Catholic education.
* Accessible Education: He believed that education should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or social status.
Overall, John Bede Polding was a multifaceted figure who left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church in Australia. His leadership, devotion, resilience, and educational vision helped shape the Church's development and made him a significant figure in Australian history.