An incredibly moving memorial service for my much-loved friend, the late Father Chris Riley, a true Australian champion. During his lifetime of tireless work for the nation’s homeless kids, he helped an estimated 60,000 find a place to stay and a new life, and many of them came to the service to thank him and remember him with incredible affection and gratitude.
It was wonderful to hear them speak of how they’re now living happily and healthily as a result of Farvs’ intervention, as well as words of thanks from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister Chris Bowen, Jimmy Barnes, Deb Wallace … a massive roll call of tributes, as well as Aboriginal, Maori and American Indian gestures of recognition, all overseen by Farvs’ great mate Mike Munro.
It was wonderful to hear them speak of how they’re now living happily and healthily as a result of Farvs’ intervention, as well as words of thanks from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister Chris Bowen, Jimmy Barnes, Deb Wallace … a massive roll call of tributes, as well as Aboriginal, Maori and American Indian gestures of recognition, all overseen by Farvs’ great mate Mike Munro.“If you save one child, you save the world,” Father Chris used to say.
I was privileged enough to spend a huge amount of time with him, while writing his biography, Mean Streets, Kind Heart, and then World Beyond Tears, and finally, Growing Great Kids. He’ll continue to be an inspiration for the rest of our lives. Thank you, Father Chris, and peace, now, finally be with you.
