Canberra Catholic Bishop Pat Power remembered as 'outspoken supporter for the poor and marginalised'

Retired Catholic Bishop Pat Power, known for speaking out on big issues including sexual abuse in the Catholic church, has died aged 83.

Ordained in 1965, Patrick Percival Power dedicated his life to helping vulnerable and disadvantaged people, serving as a priest in Braidwood, Goulburn and Canberra.

He became auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn in 1986, a role he held for more than 25 years.

Affectionately known as 'Father Pat', he became one the church's more progressive leaders, questioning the need for priests to be celibate and for women to be excluded from senior roles.

"He was loved and revered as an outspoken supporter for the poor and marginalised," Canberra and Goulburn Archbishop Christopher Prowse said.

" [He was] a man of a profound humanity who