A synthesis report summarising findings from the Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocesan Assembly has been published. Source: Catholic Voice.
More than 550 members of the archdiocese gathered in October to reflect on the theme “Come, Holy Spirit.”
This event was part of a larger Assembly Festival that included significant gatherings such as Fr Mark Ha’s ordination, an ecumenical prayer vigil, and the annual Marian procession in Goulburn. These events focused on spiritual renewal within the community
The assembly incorporated insights from thousands of online responses and reflections from over 100 small group gatherings, establishing a solid foundation for ongoing dialogue.
The report summarises online responses, focusing on the assembly’s core theme and highlighting key elements of church life: encounter, discipleship, and mission.
It emphasised that the “theme of ‘Encounter’ centres on a profound personal experience of God through Jesus Christ” and that these encounters are “realised through relationships, community, and a sense of welcome”.
The report underscored the archdiocese’s aim to “foster a community of encounter by reaching out, supporting others, and nurturing opportunities for prayer and spiritual formation”.
Under the theme of discipleship, the report found the assembly encouraged the formation of young disciples through “youth ministries, school-parish partnerships, and intergenerational initiatives”.
The synthesis report stated that “mission is active evangelisation” and called on community members to engage proactively with marginalised communities.
While the assembly was forward-looking, some divergences among community members were noted.
“There was a perceived dichotomy between ‘society’ and ‘the Church,’ with concerns about inclusion and the Church’s relevance,” the report conveyed, highlighting the need for balanced dialogue moving forward.
The report concluded by inviting parishes to explore how the Holy Spirit guides their communities today, aiming to strengthen connections among parishioners, enrich their spiritual lives, and build a vibrant, resilient community deeply rooted in faith.
FULL STORY
Synthesis Report unveils key insights from Archdiocesan Assembly (Catholic Voice)
