The Future of Catholicism in Australia: Convocation Three

Garratt Publicity
11/24/2021

Below is a letter from the Australasian Catholic Coalition for Church Reform to all 5,000 registrants for last week’s Third Convocation of Catholics. This comes to you from a Garratt Publishing email address as we are pleased to be a sponsor.

David Hughan, CEO, Garratt Publishing

Any replies please to auscathcoalition@gmail.com

Dear Friends

Our focus for the Third Convocation of Catholics on 18 November was on The Future of Catholicism in Australia, particularly:

– The achievements of the first assembly of the Plenary Council;
– The critical issues for the second and final Plenary Council assembly.

ABC presenter Ellen Fanning moderated two 40-minute sessions (see Program and Panels below) watched by 1,500 attendees who submitted over 350 comments (click here to view summary). The real issues of concern to Australian Catholics were apparent. Feedback indicates some hope that the urgent work of renewal is progressing

View VIDEO below.

Please share this video with others.

Our convocations have exposed the changes needed in the leadership, accountability, and inclusion of the people of God in the Church. In addition to local reform, the Council must report to the Holy See on those key concerns beyond their local authority, most importantly the equality of women and the eradication of clericalism.

FUTURE EVENTS
ACCCR will continue to work for renewal in 2022 through both the Second Assembly of the Plenary Council (consultation 7 Feb. to 25 March 2022) and preparation for Pope Francis’ Synod on Synodality in 2023 (consultation period closes on 27 Feb. 2022). Synodal practices at local, community and diocesan levels will be central to our work.

We need all the support we can get, particularly personal commitment. Financial support is much appreciated. Donations can be made at the following link:https://www.mycause.com.au/p/259159/convocations-of-catholics

A CRITICAL TIME
Much work needs to be done as we prepare for the 2nd Assembly of the Plenary Council and Pope Francis’ longer-term Synod on Synodality.

The Plenary Council Second Assembly 4-9 July 2022 must reset the Church’s leadership, culture and effective evangelisation to more effectively pursue the Church’s mission.

The Synod on Synodality provides an opportunity to establish synodality as the Church’s leadership, replacing the current autocratic system.

We will keep you informed. Please don’t hesitate to share the attached video.

Be blessed.

Eleanor Flynn and Peter Johnstone
Co-Conveners
Australasian Catholic Coalition for Church Reform
acccr.com.au

The Convocations of Catholics have been supported by Garratt Publishing,
St Vincent de Paul Society and Catholic Religious Australia