The Annual gathering of the nine Australian Jesuit parishes took place in the Mary McKillop Centre in North Sydney and 19 and 20 April.

St Canice’s was represented by Fr Chris Jenkins SJ, Caroline Coggins, Chris Gration and Eimer Boyle. We were reminded that with only nineteen Jesuit priests, the continuing focus would be on nurturing the lay leadership that will allow us to create a sustainable future.  We had an opportunity to connect with members of other Jesuit parishes and hear their challenges, their reflections, their parish key activities.  With this sharing and discerning time, the groups were then able to consider strategies and solutions which a Task Force collated and recorded.   

This task force was set up last year. It is a small group representing all the parishes of Australia and they will continue to work together until at least the end of this year.  They are preparing recommendations of potential sustainable path forward, for consideration by the Provincial.

The event ended with a visit to St Canice’s to experience the St Canice spirit; and to learn more about our parish renewal focus while enjoying some nourishment in Canice’s Kitchen.