''In my ministry as bishop, I have tried to reach out to those who are at the edges, both in the Church and in the wider community,'' he said.

''I don't think any of us can be comfortable in the family of the Church without asking what is causing so many of our sisters and brothers to walk away.''

His hopes for retirement, freed from the burdens of meetings and bureaucracy, include that he be freer to support priests and deacons hanging in for the long haul. He would also have more time to catch up with other friends and family members and to have a special outreach to those on the outer in the Church and the wider community.

''I promise to continue to listen to your stories and to be uplifted by your example.''

Bishop Power said he sometimes felt a bit embarrassed when given credit for his part in the pursuit of justice.

''So often I have been invited by a group of dedicated people to join in solidarity with them in supporting people at risk in all kinds of situations; our own indigenous people, refugees and asylum seekers, the Palestinian people, the Tamils, the East Timorese; here in Canberra, homeless people, the union supporting the cleaners, most of whom are migrant and women, residents of the Long Stay Caravan Park being threatened with eviction in 2006, my friends with whom I pray on World AIDS Day each year, and in their annual service at Weston Park those mourning the death of family members and friends from illicit drug use. In those and in many similar instances, I have been humbled to witness the hours of tireless dedication put in by people with extremely generous hearts.''

These people often made no claim to religious affiliation.

Bishop Power paid tribute to his parents.

''It was my father who showed me what it meant to stand up against injustice and to be in solidarity with people who are struggling.''

He also acknowledged people from other churches. ''What I have learnt from you has brought me closer to the heart of Jesus.''