Listening: the way forward for Pastoral Councils in the Diocese of Parramatta

The Diocese of Parramatta is reviewing and renewing its three-tiered system of parish, deanery, and diocesan pastoral councils. These advisory bodies were established in 2017 to help community members participate in local discernment and decision-making regarding pastoral priorities and mission.

The renewal process involves consultation and reflection to determine how these councils can better support a synodal Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Father Graham Neist, FMS, supported the process as a formator during reflection days with the councils and shared observations with the diocese's Mission Enhancement Team. Neist noted that the creation of deanery pastoral councils anticipated the universal Church's recent focus on synodality.