Plan to unite parishes
Local
Consultation has begun on plans to unite the parishes of Millicent and Mount Gambier, with the Adelaide Archdiocese seeking feedback from parishioners.
Archbishop Patrick O’Regan wrote to parishioners recently advising them of the move towards one parish community.
“Our hope is that such a conversation will reveal new ways of cooperation among the Catholic communities in a way that will be mutually enriching to all,” Archbishop O’Regan said.
“I note that great cooperation is already in place as Mount Gambier and Millicent already share the same priests, have an integrated Mass schedule and publish one weekly parish bulletin.
“The opportunities for further collaboration would include the consolidation of parish administration, mutual enrichment through the sharing of expertise on parish pastoral councils and finance councils, greater sharing of pastoral resources and more responsible use of financial resources.”
Parishioners were asked to complete a survey or speak with parish priest Fr Peter Zwaans and assistant priest Fr Olek Stirrat.
Meanwhile, the transition towards one parish at Aberfoyle Park and Blackwood has progressed with a reflection day held in February. This included discussion on the mission and identity of the new parish, with a focus on its name.
A shortlist of five names has been prepared and a final decision is expected in April. The new Parish Pastoral Council, which has members from both communities, is leading the naming and identity process.
The diocesan pastoral planning process also involves looking at areas of expected development and growth, with Adelaide’s population estimated to grow substantially in the next 10 years.
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