Engaged or disengaged, Catholic women are welcome

Women of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn have designed their own consultation event to contribute to the renewal process, Plenary Council 2020, initiated by the Australian Catholic Church.

In a break from the traditional gatherings being held in the Archdiocese, the one-day event, scheduled for Saturday, 8 September, is designed by women, for women.

Another unique feature is the effort being made to include all Catholic women, engaged or disengaged, affiliated or disaffiliated, hopeful or grieving.

“Women are invited to come with an attitude of openness, listening and participation”, said Andrea Dean, a member of the planning group. 

“There will be a reflective and respectful tone to the process as we are deliberately using a style of spiritual decision making called discernment.”

Marilyn Hatton, long-term advocate for Church renewal, said, “The meeting will provide an opportunity for women to voice their concerns and hopes for the Church. We acknowledge that those who attend will come from differing backgrounds and may hold widely divergent views on a range of issues. All are welcome.”

As well as contributing to the national Church renewal process, the consultation will also decide on the form and focus of an Archdiocesan women’s group. Previously a Commission for Women, which represented Catholic women and organized formation and education, came to an end.

Lorraine Barker, former secretary of the Commission for Women, said, “I grieved the loss of the Commission for Women but I’m hopeful that something rich and wonderful will emerge from this event”.

The planning group, who have the support of Archbishop Prowse, are anticipating women will come from across the Archdiocese. Donations towards catering costs and venue hire will be accepted on the day.

The venue is the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Barton ACT. The consultation will commence at 10 am and conclude at 3 pm. Background material will be distributed to ensure that participants are both clear about the purpose of the consultation and feel welcomed. Those who are interested in attending, and those wishing to be billeted, are invited to register at www.catholicwomen.org.au

For more information contact:

Andrea Dean, Director
Office for the Participation of Women
Email: director.opw@catholic.org.au
Ph: 0487388873

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