Over 100 parish priests and parish representatives from across the Archdiocese (and beyond) recently gathered for an opportunity to learn about the next phase of the Plenary Council process. On hand to present were Rev. Dr Kevin Lenehan (Associate Dean, Catholic Theological College) and Lana Turvey-Collins (Facilitator for the Plenary Council). Lana said that this next phase invites communities to enter into the practice of ‘spiritual conversations’. “This is not meant to be a debate of ideas but a prayerful, spiritual conversation ... It’s a process that involves prayer, listening, discernment, and having our minds and hearts moved,” she said.

Tuesday 13 August --- We are offering two RCIA workshops this August—one focused on the planning, preparation and promotion of RCIA in the parish and the other on adapting the Rite for the preparation and initiation of children. These workshops are suitable for those new to and interested in the RCIA and those involved in catechetics or sacrament preparation (particularly the sacraments of initiation). Both workshops will be offered twice, to enable as many coordinators to attend. 

Thursday 5 September --- Drawing on decades of leadership experience, bestselling US-author Chris Lowney will examine the profound challenges facing the global Catholic Church, share real-life stories of Catholics making a difference, and offer practical suggestions for change. Chris will not only outline the challenges but also map the path forward. 

The Christian Leadership Series is an annual offering for parish leaders and all those interested in exploring what Christian leadership looks and feels like in the context of 21st century Australia. This year’s four-week series offered participants a survey of key books, themes and figures from our biblical tradition. Guided by some of the country’s leading biblical scholars, a range of topics were explored from creation through to the prophetic movement, the Lukan narrative and the Pauline letters. Missed the series? Watch them online >

The Social Profile of the Catholic Community in Australia (based on the 2016 census) was recently released by the National Centre for Pastoral Research.  The profile provides information about key demographic indicators; how the Catholic community is changing across the country as well as over time, with some comparisons provided from earlier reports (e.g. 2011). The report is a valuable tool in seeking to understand the contemporary Australian Catholic community and assessing its needs.

Focusing on the Kerygma—the initial proclamation of the Good News—Alpha introduces participants to a personal encounter with Jesus. A series of sessions which explore the Christian faith, Alpha is typically run over eleven weeks, with the process comprising a shared meal, film and discussion exploring a different topic or faith question such as: ‘Is there more to life than this?' Does your parish want to know more about Alpha? Contact us.

Saturday 16 February --- More than 150 people from various parishes across the Archdiocese of Melbourne gathered at the Catholic Leadership Centre to attend a seminar in preparation for the Season of Lent and Holy Week. The day included two keynote presentations and 10 workshops for participants to choose from that focused on scripture, prayer, music, service and outreach.