WelCom October 2022
Christchurch Catholic Diocese is hosting a second Ablaze conference in November for everyone interested in parish renewal. It will build on the diocese’s first Ablaze in 2017. The event is on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 November at the Aldersgate Centre, 309 Durham St North, Christchurch, and open to all.
Bishop of Christchurch Michael Gielen says the first Ablaze was a focal point and impetus for evangelisation in the diocese. Following the lifting of Covid restrictions he says as we return to normal life ‘now is the time to gather again and focus on helping our parishes and communities be more intentionally missional’.
Bishop Michael was a keynote speaker at the first Ablaze and will be at this one. Two other keynote speakers are:
Anna Stuart, Director of Global Operations with the international Divine Renovation Ministry. A parishioner and chair at St Benedict Parish Council, Halifax, Canada, Anna will look at parish renewal to guide a parish towards mission through the power of the Holy Spirit, the primacy of evangelisation and the best of leadership.
Fr Chris Ryan mgl, parish priest of two parishes in the Sydney Archdiocese, will look at parish renewal, why we need it and how our transformation leads to a transformed world.
Mike Stopforth Christchurch Bishop’s Pastoral Office Director says, ‘Open to all, Ablaze will be suitable for clergy, parish leadership teams and councils, pastoral staff, youth ministry leaders, catechists, parish volunteers, school staff and everyone interested in parish renewal. It will include a youth ministry leaders’ team. The focus will be on parish renewal and our call to mission and faith in Christ. There will be inspirational speakers, tools for mission through workshops, discussion forums, prayer and liturgy.’
Go to www.chchcatholic.nz/ablaze for more information and to register or contact Mike at mstopforth@chch.catholic.org.nz or ph 027 5398 542. The cost is $99 per person.