Eighteen months after the inaugural Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocesan Assembly, parish communities across the archdiocese continue to gather, reflect and plan for the future. Source: Catholic Voice.
With a second archdiocesan-wide assembly scheduled for October, most parishes are now completing their own local assemblies.
Archdiocesan chancellor Patrick McArdle said the process builds on years of dialogue within the Church, including consultations linked to the Australian Plenary Council and the Synod on Synodality.
“Pope Francis reminded us that through our baptism we not only entered into the body of Christ and its promise of salvation, but we took on responsibilities too – chief among them is co-responsibility for the evangelising mission of the Church,” Dr McArdle said.
At Mary Help of Christians Parish in South Woden, parishioner Susanna Taylor described their recent assembly as filled with “joy, unity, and love”.
Familiar with the “Conversation in the Spirit” dialogue model, she noted its continued ability to inspire.
“The Holy Spirit is moving in our midst,” she said. “Despite many voices, there was no division – only acceptance and shared bonds.”
Ms Taylor said discussions were deep and personal, fostering enduring connections. “We allowed our hidden, vulnerable sides to surface, enriching conversations and relationships,” she said
Dr McArdle noted that this discernment model has become more widespread, enabling parishes to listen attentively to the Holy Spirit and each other.
“The assembly called for greater focus on welcoming others, sacramental participation, and deeper parish engagement,” he said.
By Pentecost, all but four parishes had committed to holding local assemblies, with reports being collated to identify common themes. These findings will guide the 2026 Archdiocesan Assembly.
FULL STORY
Listening Church: Parishes chart future ahead of 2026 Assembly (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
