On Sunday, October 28, the St Joseph/Mt D’or parish came together for its parish assembly, in preparation for vicariate assembly in the short-term and Synod 2008 in the long-term.

At around 10:00 a.m. the proceedings began, with all present zealously joining in the opening prayers and hymns. Participants included group leaders, group members and interested parishioners.

Parishioners in attendance

Youth in discussion at the assembly

After preliminary introductions, the parish Synod delegates delivered presentations on the five areas that would be the focus of discussion at the parish and vicariate assemblies – Social Justice, Youth Ministry, Catholic Communication, Evangelisation and Stewardship.

Their reports highlighted the achievements, challenges encountered and the way forward, in each of these areas.

An interactive session followed which generated lively discussion and many of our attendees freely expressed their views, concerns, observations and recommendations regarding the presentations that were made. It was the ideal forum also for clarifying issues and ensuring that everyone was “on the same page”, so to speak.

When our assembly concluded at around 2:00 p.m, all would agree that the time had been well spent.  Our Synod delegates were left with much information that will be compiled in preparation for the Suburban Vicariate Assembly to be held on November 24 at the Pastoral Centre, Fatima Church, Curepe.

After the final prayer, everyone was invited to partake in a delicious lunch, and many stayed on to chat and bond in friendship.  It was indeed a fitting way to bring our assembly to a close.

Many thanks to all our participants and in particular, to our parish Synod delegates who planned, organised and helped to make our assembly the success that it was. Special thanks to our parish priest, Fr Ferdinand Warner OP who is ever present to guide and support us.