NEW Bishop of Lismore Gregory Homeming was perfectly placed to lead the Catholic Church locally through its darkest times, the Metropolitan Arch- bishop of Sydney said.

The Most Rev Anthony Fisher expressed his sentiments about Bishop Homeming's position to lead the Catholic Church forward in the wake of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

"At this time the Catholic community - and especially the bishops - hang our heads in shame in apology, in determination to ensure such failures do not happen ever again," he said during the homily at Tuesday night's ordination.

"Some might think this no time for making new bishops ... but there is a providence in God calling a man like Greg with his legal background, critical intelligence, spiritual wisdom, pastoral sensitivity and gentle soul to help lead us forward in this time."

"We need such humble and compassionate shepherds if we are to regain people's trust after this dark (time) ... of the church in Australia."

Archbishop Fisher then continued his heartfelt and, at times, amusing message to the church and the new bishop.

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He detailed the history of the Discalced Carmelite order, from which Bishop Homeming came, and the work of the order's founder, St Teresa of Jesus.

"It is reported that Teresa embraced each new task God gave her with fierce determination, quickly making friends ... identifying opportunities, sweeping away obstacles," Archbishop Fisher said.

"We can look forward to such from her son. His priests can look forward to him demonstrating, for their benefit, the culinary skills of his beloved parents and the Chinese people

"This humble (man) has few possessions beyond his religious habit, his wok, and that passionate love for the spiritual theology of Teresa and John of the Cross."

Bishop Homeming's ordination was attended by more than 400 people, including about 30 bishops, from across the country.

The traditional ceremony was interlaced with singing, worship and rituals such as bestowal of symbolic gifts.

Those gifts included the Book of the Gospels, to help him preach with "patience and sound teaching".

Other items included the Insignia, a ring symbolising the "seal of fidelity"; the Mitre; and the Crosier or Pastoral Staff, which once belonged to the first bishop of Lismore.

After taking his place in the bishop's chair, Bishop Homeming led his first Mass with his new flock.