Catalyst for Renewal

Seeking renewal through conversation

We are believers who are attempting to promote conversation within the Catholic Church of Australia and in the wider community. Our aim is to prompt open exchanges, mindful of the diversity of expressions of faith in contemporary Australia. This springs explicitly from the spirit of Pope John XXIII and Vatican II: “Let there be unity in what is necessary, freedom in what is unsettled, and charity in any case.” (Gaudium et Spes, n.92)

A Spirituality of Conversation

Conversation is a process whereby we encounter others in a mutual search for what is true.

Conversation requires a willingness and ability:

  • To listen at depth for what is happening within me and between us,
  • To refrain from pre-empting the outcome,
  • To be transformed through this encounter with the other.

Conversation is much more than mere talk or discussion or debate or argument.

Conversation is at its best when the participants are together actively seeking to submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

A spirituality of conversation will emerge for participants as they give themselves to the process of conversation.

Breaking News

Bishop Vincent Long has kindly agreed to be the guest speaker at our next luncheon to be held on Saturday 9th March 2024. We expect this will be a popular luncheon. We may have to consider limiting numbers so as not to put too much stress on the catering staff!

Global Synod update: Join prominent Australian broadcaster Geraldine Doogue as she follows two big events in the life of the Catholic Church in Australia and worldwide.  Continue..

Geraldine Doogue  awarded honorary doctorate.   Continue ..

The James Alison Forum, What does radical inclusion really mean for a modern synodal Church, attracted an audience which was thoughtful and perceptive.  Continue...

 

For more reports of Catalyst's activities, visit our News page.

 

An interesting but disturbing survey of Catholic Women has been done by three members of University of Newcastle's College of Human and Social Futures. The link to the pdf is provided by the Grail.

Highlights of our upcoming events:

Upcoming Events from Other Organisations

Australian Catholic Historical Society Inc.

 December 2023 -11.45am: Annual Mass and Christmas Lunch - Dyer Centre, St Mary’s Ridge St, North Sydney               Mass followed by a light lunch.

Speaker: Diana Carmody

More information: https://australiancatholichistoricalsociety.com.au/program-2/