Applications are now open for the Diocese of Parramatta’s Reflective Ministry program. It kicks off again on Tuesday 24 August. Registrations to the program can be made via https://tinyurl.com/RMIFM
“For me, this program gave me more confidence to continue my ministry in God’s love to my family, friends, local parish and community,” says Antonius, who participated in the Reflective Ministry program earlier this year.
Reflective Ministry is a signature program of Pastoral Formation, under the Mission Enhancement Team. It offers a leadership development experience for all those interested in involvement in ministry and for those currently involved who are seeking ongoing personal development.
Catholic Outlook spoke with Antonius from Westmead who shared his responses about his experience of the program.
Catholic Outlook: What were one or two highlights of the Reflective Ministry for you?
Antonius: (A) A spiritual reflection to awaken and nourish the human heart as God’s presence in my heart through some practices such as contemplation, stillness, gratitude and sacraments.
(B) I have become more aware that communication is an art and not easy, even in the family, there has always been conflict as a human nature but I believe in the dialogue, God’s love is presence.
CO: What impact did the Reflective Ministry program have on the relationship with God?
A: Learn how to become a good listener through active listening and accompaniment.
In spirituality, my reflection is trying to understand what message God wants to speak to me through others via effective communication either in the positive way or not, it will bring more personal lessons to grow in God’s love, in the daily life in the family and community.
CO: How has the program encouraged your practical expression of life and faith in the world?
A: For me, this program gave me more confidence to continue my ministry in God’s love to my family, friends, local parish and community, especially the persons in need in the hospital during their sickness, but since the COVID-19 outbreak last year, the visitation/communion program for the sick in the hospital and nursing home are on halt.
CO: What encouragement would you share with someone who’s undecided on whether they should do Reflective Ministry?
A: Sharing experiences that I have before and after joining the Reflective Ministry, give some simple examples happening in daily life and reality, which might help to grow in spirituality and live with God.
The Reflective Ministry program is kicking off again on Tuesday 24 August. Registrations to the program can be made via https://tinyurl.com/RMIFM
You are also welcome to contact Donnie Velasco on donnie.velasco@parracatholic.org or 0432 042 140 for more information.
Donnie Velasco is Pastoral Formation Officer in the Diocese of Parramatta’s Mission Enhancement Team (MET).
