Wellington's St Mary's Catholic School recently hosted more than 60 representatives from the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst for the annual Diocesan Pastoral Council Assembly.
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Members of the Council, clergy, seminarians and chairs of various diocesan councils joined with Bishop of Bathurst, Michael McKenna for the two-day gathering over August 23-24.
The assembly was an opportunity for parish representatives from across the Diocese to share their experiences and learn from each other and presenters to further grow their communities and help others in developing their faith.
It was also an opportunity to devise new initiatives for the Diocese and hear about what strategies and programs have been implemented recently.
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In his welcome to the assembly, Bishop McKenna said, "In its simplest form, the Diocesan Pastoral Council is here to help us find Jesus and to help others find Jesus. The Council enables the mission of the local church to be delivered in a practical manner".
A highlight of the assembly was the input provided by guest presenter Lorraine McCarthy, from Alpha Australia.
Delegates were given practical and tangible direction to help improve their parishes and develop sttrong missionary communities.
On Friday evening, the assembly Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Michael McKenna, Fr Carl Mackander, Parish Priest of Wellington, and other visiting priests from across the Diocese at St Patrick's Church.
The assembly dinner was held at the Wellington Soldiers Club, where delegates listened to the inspiring story of Herb Smith, Founder and CEO of Dreamtime Tuka, proud Wiradjuri man and Wellington local.
Saturday gave the Diocesan Pastoral Council members from each working group, an opportunity to report on activity, achievements and events for the past 12 months and to discuss what is planned for the coming period.
Sr Patricia Powell, rsm congratulated the working groups on the inspiring projects and services that were discussed
The Assembly organising committee were very grateful to St Mary's Catholic School staff and community for the use of their wonderful facilities and to all that contributed to the success of the two-day assembly.
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