Born in 1940, Fr Moloney entered the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1960 and was ordained a priest a decade later. His academic and spiritual journey took him across the world—from Rome to Oxford, from Jerusalem to Melbourne—where he inspired generations of students, theologians, and believers with his profound understanding of Scripture.

After completing his theological and biblical studies at the Salesian Pontifical University and the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome, he earned his doctorate from the University of Oxford. His teaching and research career spanned Europe, Israel, the United States, Southeast Asia, and Australia—guided by the conviction expressed in John 17:3: “This is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

In 1984, Pope John Paul II appointed Fr Moloney to the International Theological Commission, where he served for 18 years, contributing to the Church’s deepened engagement with Scripture. His scholarship earned national recognition when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 1992 for his services to religion. Two years later, he became the Foundation Professor of Theology at the Australian Catholic University.

From 2006 to 2011, Fr Moloney served as Provincial Superior of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Australia, leading the province with a blend of intellectual depth, pastoral care, and commitment to youth formation—hallmarks of the Salesian spirit.

A world authority on the Gospel of John, Fr. Moloney authored over 50 books and numerous articles, including landmark works such as The Gospel of John: Text and Context, Belief in the Word, and The Living Voice of the Gospel. His writings are considered essential references in contemporary biblical studies. In his later years, he served as Senior Professorial Fellow at the Catholic Theological College, part of the University of Divinity, Melbourne.

In retirement, Fr. Moloney continued to share the Word through his popular podcast, Audio Divina, offering weekly reflections on the Sunday Scriptures. His blend of scholarly precision and pastoral warmth made the program a cherished resource for clergy, catechists, and laypeople worldwide.

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, SDB, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, paid tribute to Fr Moloney’s generosity and faith: “He loved sincerely and generously and was deeply loved and admired in return.”

Having spent his life unveiling the Christ of the Gospels, Fr Francis Moloney now enters the fullness of eternal life—to behold, face to face, the Lord whom he served so faithfully and made known so well.