Journey of Transformation: Archdiocesan Assembly heralds new era for Catholic Community
With a vibrant call to unity, Archbishop Christopher Prowse emphasised the importance of community connections as the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn prepares for its assembly.
“I’m hoping for a real joy of springtime as we approach our archdiocesan assembly,” he said, emphasising the event’s significance.
The assembly, scheduled for October 18-20, 2024, will feature gatherings not only in Canberra but also in hubs across the diocese, including Goulburn, Narooma, Cooma and Young. Archbishop Prowse explained that this format has become familiar following the pandemic, allowing participants to join remotely in a meaningful way.
The assembly will kick off with an ecumenical prayer vigil on the evening of October 18. Archbishop Prowse has invited various ecumenical leaders to join, underscoring a commitment to collaboration beyond the Catholic community.
“This event is very much in the Catholic faith but extends beyond it as well,” he claimed. The launch of a multi-migrant choir will serve as a beautiful metaphor for unity, symbolising how diverse individuals can come together in harmony. Although many, we can sing together in a way pleasing to God,” the Archbishop explained.
Saturday will focus on Roundtable discussions and Conversations in the Spirit, during which participants will explore critical themes emerging from the Plenary Council of Australia and the Synod on Synodality.
It is an opportunity for the relational dimension to come before the practical dimensions,” said Archbishop Prowse, highlighting a desire to nurture understanding within the Catholic community. He encourages participants to reflect on the implications of baptism and the charisms that flow from it, asserting that “allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us is vital for our journey.”
Looking to the future, the Archbishop outlined three key objectives for the assembly: fostering connections among participants, deepening understanding of baptism, and articulating pathways for mission in the future.
He reflected on an interim discernment group that has already been collaborating to lay the groundwork for this event, stating, “This assembly is not just a flash in the pan; it’s about institutionalising our experiences into a synodal Archdiocese.”
The assembly will culminate on Sunday, October 20, with a pastoral letter intended for widespread distribution in parishes across the Archdiocese. Archbishop Prowse emphasised that this gathering is a starting point for a renewed mission. “We are moving towards a permanent assembly,” he asserted, reinforcing the idea of ongoing transformation within the Church.
Archbishop Prowse has warmly invited all members of the Archdiocese to participate in these events. “If you don’t know much about this, please, here is our invitation to you. You can be directly involved,” he says, encouraging participation and connection.
In a spirit of hope, he remarked on the vibrant energy beginning to germinate throughout the Archdiocese. “Let’s walk together in this year of the Holy Spirit,” he encourages, signalling the dawning of a remarkable journey ahead for the Catholic community in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.
More information about the Archdiocesan Assembly can be found at www.cgevangelisation.org.au/assembly/
