Members gathered for a Mass followed by a party with a formal cake cutting and many stories of friendships forged, events organised and changes of perspective.  We were able to share the delight of seeing  in mainstream church documents, phrases such as “the search for consensus using conversations in the Spirit”, a method of discernment not widely used 30 years ago and a very Catalyst “thing”.

The opening prayer of the Mass set the tone. We are your pilgrim people. You are always inviting us ever more deeply to abide in your love. As we celebrate today, we give thanks for the blessings we have received over the years and ask your blessings on us as we continue to seek your ways.

The story continues. Yes, there is comfort and safety in doing what we have always done. Fine, if it is working. What was groundbreaking in 1994 is not so now. We search for better ways to converse with each other and with others. As Richard Lennan SJ reminds us, growth and change are intertwined.

Thanks to those who guided the early years, for those who took the baton and continued the work. Also, for those who did the hard work, the envelope stuffing, the setting up of tables and chairs, the catering, the sourcing of speakers, the distribution of flyers, the SIP arrangements and all the other backroom tasks.  To the creative souls who organised the big events, went out on a limb and made it happen, thank you.

Finally, as I remarked at the party, those who attend are vital to success, no participants, no party, no event, no learning, no community, no pilgrim people.

Final words—-celebrate and participate!