Prayer Calendar: Deceased Priests who have ministered the Catholic Faith throughout Toowoomba and districts, 1864–2025, Compiled by Annie Carrett, Diocesan Archivist, 2001, Updated by Gabrielle Saide, Diocesan Archivist, 2023:
Rt Rev Monsignor John Bennett, died 25 July 1999

John Bennett was the only son, and eldest, of four children born to Laurence and Elizabeth Bennett (nee Beh). He grew up in Toowoomba, and, along with his family, remained intimately connected with the area, especially the Cathedral and James Street families. His father died suddenly in 1948, two years before John's ordination. His mother's great faith and graciousness as a person had a marked influence on Fr Bennett's, and his sisters, lives. From a very early age they attended morning Mass regularly, and Fr Bennett carried this love of the Mass with him throughout his priestly life. His early education took place at the nearby St Saviour's School and later at St Mary's Christian Brothers College, Toowoomba. He prepared for the priesthood at Pius XII Provincial Seminary at Banyo and was ordained on 26th July, 1950, in St Patrick's Cathedral, Toowoomba, by Archbishop O'Donnell of Brisbane. He was the last of his Toowoomba ordination group left, Frs Callaghan, Grundy and Isaac having predeceased him. His first appointment was a brief one to Dalby in 1950, but this was followed by eight years at the Cathedral including several relief appointments to Warwick, Goondiwindi, Killarney and Cambooya. In 1960 he went to Oakey as the Assistant Priest and in 1962 was made Parish Priest of Quilpie. He was appointed to Dirranbandi from 1967 until 1983, and his last appointment, in 1983, was as Parish Priest to St James and St John's Parish, Clifton, where he remained for 15 years. Bishop Kelly appointed Fr Bennett as Vicar General to the Diocese of Toowoomba on 21st July, 1987, and on Bishop Kelly's retirement, he was re-appointed to the position by Bishop Morris. On 6th October, 1987, he received the dignity of prelate with Honour, with the title Monsignor. He also held the position of Diocesan Administrator for several months between 1992 and 1993. Monsignor Bennett was a very genuine, unassuming man. Although terribly shy and reserved, he was greatly loved by all who knew him, and always believed in supporting and encouraging the activities of his parishioners and school – the children of the parish were always amazed how he could remember their names even after many years had passed. He had a great intellect, and was an avid lover of books – his unique, and large, collection of Australiana and history being testament to his interest (possibly close to 20,000 volumes, if not more!). His generosity, and that of his family, was very well regarded, and Fr Bennett was never known to say a harmful word against anyone throughout his life. This non-judgmental attitude was an important responsibility he held dear. A wonderful man, who will be sadly missed by his family, confreres and friends – especially his surviving sister Ellie. His life was commemorated in a Vigil held at St James and St John's Parish Church, Clifton, and at a Requiem mass held in St Patrick's Cathedral, Toowoomba . He is interred in the Toowoomba Garden of Remembrance.
(Ref. Archives)

Reproduced by permission of Bishop Ken Howell.