Fr. Peter Knowles, R.I.P.

We wish to advise the death of Fr. Peter Knowles O.P. first full-time chaplain to Monash University and from 1981 - 1989 second Master of Mannix College. Fr. Knowles spent twenty-five years at Monash during which time he saw Monash through the Vietnam War and its aftermath and high political debate. The chaplaincy office was situated in the Union Building and a great friendship existed between the chaplains and staff and students of the Union. He was drawn to young people. Perplexed and troubled undergraduates benefited from his encouragement and wisdom and even today many people speak of the profound influence he on on their development as young adults, some testifying that he changed their lives around. He enjoyed theatre, music and good food and possessed a wry sense of humour. Nothing seemed to disturb him.

Fr. Knowles never took out a degree but he was highly respected by the academic staff as well as students for his learning, friendship and pastoral care to all. As a young man he set out after studies at Xavier College Kew to travel the world seeking his vocation. This search took him to the Abbey of Gethsamane in Kentuckey (which was home to the famous Thomas Merton) then on to the Carthusians of Parkminster England (similar to the monks of the film The Great Silence). Not finding his vocation in either of these communities he returned to Australia where he spent time as a jackeroo before joining the Dominicans at East Camberwell. He finally found his spiritual home amongst the Russian Catholic community who worship according to the Byzantine rite. He mastered several ancient and modern eastern languages, in addition to the modern western languages that he already possessed.

A memorial service will be held at 12.10p.m. on Wednesday, 9th April, in the main chapel at the Monash Religious Centre. All are welcome to attend to pray for a chaplain who made a dedicated contribution to the Monash community during his years of service at the Clayton campus. As a former Master of Mannix College, it would be wonderful to see current day students attend this memorial Mass in his remembrance.

Jessica Shanasy
PA to the Principal & Dean
Admissions Secretary
Mannix College