“When we go to prayer it is not a matter of switching on, but rather of turning up the volume. The mind in prayer is formed by the state which preceded it,” wrote St Francis of Assisi.
This was one of the opening quotes used by Bishop Emeritus of Broken Bay, David Walker, at a retreat for deacons and wives from the Diocese of Parramatta’s permanent diaconate community from 29 February to 2 March.
The importance of ministers and all Christians forming themselves as prayerful people was of the challenges presented.
The Diaconate retreat was an initiative of the new Diaconate Council in the Diocese. The Council has also arranged several social events (with a facilitated discussion component) and group supervision for deacons.
Bishop David is well known for his efforts over decades in formation of people in the Church.
His retreat talks focussed on topics such as:
- Prayer as relationship, friendship and companionship with Jesus
- The life of prayer
- Transformation of life, and
- Love of our neighbour.
He also shared some of the resources from his Centre for Christian Spirituality where he is part of a panel that previews the readings for each Sunday.
The attendees enjoyed not only the talks by Bishop David and time for reflection but also the opportunity to share their experiences of diaconate life with each other.
To learn more about the Diocese’s permanent diaconate community and how to join this servant ministry, please visit https://parracatholic.org/contribute/discern-my-vocation/diaconate/
Deacon Tony Hoban is the Vicar for Deacons in the Diocese of Parramatta and the Pastoral Director of St Luke’s Catholic Faith Community, Marsden Park.
