Breaking news! The Instrumentum Laboris has just come out this week, which will guide the Agenda of the Synod of Bishops in October 2023. The term ‘diaconate’ is mentioned twice:
- “Most of the Continental Assemblies and the syntheses of several Episcopal Conferences call for the question of women’s inclusion in the diaconate to be considered. Is it possible to envisage this, and in what way?” B 2.3
- “How is the ministry of the permanent diaconate to be understood within a missionary synodal Church?” B 2.4
Our group, the Australian Catholics Exploring the Diaconate, has been preparing a retreat that responds positively to both of those questions. It will be held over the weekend of the Feast of St Phoebe, the Deacon named in Romans 16:1, the 1st to the 3rd of September. We will also draw inspiration from St Mary MacKillop, as we gather at the place of her grave: Mary MacKillop Place, North Sydney.
We invite you to join with women and men who will be exploring the spirituality of the permanent diaconate within a retreat setting, and alongside ordained Deacons, clergy and formators. You may be interested in discerning this calling in the future, or you may wish to share this invite with someone that you know. The retreat is also an opportunity to reflect on your journey of faith and ministry, whatever you might be called to, and will include Mass and various forms of prayer. The cost for 2 nights – $420 per single room ($375 concession), $610 per couple (double/twin) – includes accommodation and all meals. Women and men are encouraged to register, and couples are welcome to attend together.
On the Feast of St Phoebe, Sunday the 3rd of September, we will watch a live seminar, in which the presenters will also share with non-participants as a Webinar, from 11:15am-12:00pm. This will feature the guest speaker, Dr Debra Snoddy (Lecturer in Biblical Studies, Catholic Institute of Sydney) who will talk on “St Phoebe and Women in the early Church, inspiration for a synodal Church today.” Anyone is welcome to attend this free event, which coincides with global Feast of St Phoebe celebrations.
To learn more or to register for the Retreat (1-3 September) or the Webinar (3 September), please visit https://liturgyonthemargins.org/events/
Liturgy on the Margins 