As Moore College's first years file into classes this week, their numbers will be augmented by an 80 year old who has finally decided to follow a family tradition.

Paul Mahaffey of Wilberforce had a range of past-times available for his retirement, but few people would have thought a diploma was amongst them.

"Three months ago I saw a booklet the diocese put out talking about ministry for people over 50 and I thought about that a lot," he says, explaining the change in direction his life has taken.

"I decided in January, which was technically too late, but all sorts of doors have been opened since then and I’m there."

Studying at Moore has become something of a family tradition, but instead of his imitating his forebears, Mr Mahaffey will be following in the footsteps of his children.

“I’ve had a son and a daughter go through here so I know a fair bit about it," Mr Mahaffey says.

"I wasn’t under any illusions about what the course would be like and my only concern is that I last the distance. It’s 60 years since I last did any classroom study - which is a bit of a break!" he laughs.

His daughter, Ruth Mahaffey, the assistant minister at Wilberforce, says Moore is unlikely to wear her father out.

"He’s a young 80 year old and he certainly has much more energy than I do," she says.

Western Sydney's Archdeacon Ken Allen says he was thrilled to meet and recommend someone with so much zeal.

"He's definitely a "young 80'. As someone who’s 62 and wondering what I’ll do when I’m 65, I think it’s exciting," he says.

"I’ve always wanted to encourage people to press on right to the end. Now people are saying, we’re living longer - let’s make use of that time for the Lord."

Mr Mahaffey says he realises he differs markedly from Moore's average student.

"Most of them are in their 30's and 40's. Nobody's anywhere near my age!"

But he believes his desire to show Christ's love to prisoners and their families will see him through.

Archdeacon Allen agrees.

"I said to him, "Moses was called by God to start his major work when he was in his 80’s - why not you?'"