Fr Denis Allen - 50 years a priest

Fr Denis Allen celebrated his 50 years of priesthood this week.

Fr Denis has been closely involved with Dominic College students and community over many years, and was an old scholar of Boys' Town, attending from 1947 till 1950. The early part of his story was published in Veritas 2014.

He attended Corpus Christi College in the late 1950s to undertake his studies and was ordained 23 July 1965. Emeritus Archbishop Adrian Doyle, in his homily on Monday, pointed out Fr Denis was was one of the last priests ordained before the changes of Vatican II, and so his ministry began at a time of great change and potential.

Fr Denis has undertaken many roles in parishes around Tasmania, and as Vicar General for some years before forging a new role in 2000 caring for hospitals and the elderly.

Monday's Mass at Holy Spirit Church, Sandy Bay, was celebrated by a large number of priests and both Archbishops Julian and Adrian, as well as a large congregation of parishioners and well-wishers.

Fr Denis also celebrated with his friends in our Salesian community this week. He was taught by Fr Bob Curmi, and has remained a great supporter and advocate for Dominic College and the experience of Salesian education.