LOCAL author Kerry Medway’s new book ‘Is Ned Kelly in Heaven’ was launched at the Port Macquarie-Hastings Library on Saturday, with 35 people attending.
Mayor Peter Besseling, who launched the book, spoke warmly about it and also of Kerry’s long history of community activities.
He quoted the Wangaratta Catholic priest Monsignor White who spoke at Ned Kelly’s burial in February this year.
The monsignor had received a number of offensive communications from people objecting to Kelly receiving a public funeral, but emphasised the focus of the service was not on the deceased but on a merciful God.
“We don’t make the judgments. We don’t know what goes on in people’s hearts and souls and minds. God does that,” the monsignor said.
“Today we want to bring closure to what was denied his family and what was denied his mother Ellen. Ours is a church of saints and sinners, and we are not here to decide which side Ned falls on.”
Many people purchased signed copies of the book and one prominent person told Mr Medway the launch was one of the best she had attended.
Is Ned Kelly in Heaven can be purchased from local bookshops or direct from the author on www.KerryMedway.or
