Fr Devitt will start in his new role as the Dean of the Cathedral of St Michael and St John and the episcopal vicar of Catholic education on January 20, bringing to an end his latest four-year stint in Orange - he was previously appointed to Orange in 1986, 1991 and 1997.

“I hope [to come back], that’s really up to how things pan out, but I’ve been here four times so my chances of coming back for a fifth are pretty good,” he said with a laugh.

Fr Devitt will replace Bathurst priest Father Patrick O’Regan, who will become the Bishop of Sale in Victoria.

He said the best thing about his time in Orange was being able to interact with a variety of people.

“It’s the sort of job where you meet people from all walks of life,” he said.

“I like challenges and change helps to raise you to a new challenge, which is a lovely thing.”

Fr Devitt said his new role would involve a little more administration work because he would be working closer with Bishop Michael McKenna.

Father Garry McKeown will travel from Mudgee to replace Father Devitt - Fr McKeown previously served in east Orange as an assistant priest.

danielle.cetinski@fairfaxmedia.com.au