Sydney's newest bishop believes asylum seekers who arrive in Australia by boat can make a contribution to society.
He is speaking from experience.
Bishop Vincent Long Van Nguen fled Vietnam's communist regime on a timber boat in 1980 when he was just 18 years old, and spent more than a year in a Malaysian refugee camp.
Bishop Long told SBS News it was a perilous journey many Vietnamese people had to take.
"It was a life and death decision that the refugees have to make in a desperate situation," he said.
“It was a desperate situation for us, after the communist victory. There was total chaos in the country.
“It was daunting arriving here with little possessions. It was a challenging process.”
Bishop Long was granted refugee status and arrived in Melbourne a day before his 20th birthday with no family and barely any English skills.
He went on to study for the priesthood and was ordained in 1989.
In 2011, he became Melbourne's auxiliary bishop, and on Friday Pope Francis announced he would be Parramatta's new bishop.
Bishop Long said advocating for refugee rights would be an important priority he would bring to western Sydney.
Bishop Vincent Long has told SBS he is "apprehensive and excitement" to begin his role as Bishop of Parramatta. Source: SBS
"I can identify with their struggles, and their dreams and their hopes in the new land," he said.
"I hope that we can create a culture of dialogue and engagement and understanding."
Parishioner Kirrily Aguilera welcomed the announcement, and said she was excited about what Bishop Long would bring to Parramatta.
"He's really interested in people," she said.
"I think all in all it's a great announcement for our diocese."
With more than 300,000 Catholics, as well 50 parishes and churches, the Parramatta diocese is the fifth largest in Australia, as well as one of the most ethnically diverse.
Bishop Long said it was a daunting position to be entrusted with, but one he was ready for.
"As a migrant and refugee I think I have an insight, an experience that I can resonate with the people of Western Sydney," he said.
Bishop Long will officially assume his role next month.
