The Rockhampton diocese of the Catholic Church is considering starting a school for deacons to help ease the shortage of priests in Mackay and Rockhampton. The skills crisis is expected to worsen in the coming months when Mackay's Father John Rasmussen retires.
A replacement priest is yet to be found.
Bishop Brian Heenan says there are no students devoted to the region studying at Queensland's only seminary in Brisbane, and it is hoped a local training centre will stem the shortage of church leaders.
"I'm very hopeful that next year it's going to change, I'm very hopeful," he said.
"There are men all around the diocese who I know are thinking of priesthood.
"It may not be at this moment or this year, but I'm very confident."
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