THE local clergy met on Thursday, April 7, to discuss matters that affect us all in the Church of Melbourne. There was discussion about the Royal Commission and the negative impact, first and always foremost, on victims but also on the church communities in our areas. Some of you might know there was recently a failed arson attack in North Balwyn. Police are still investigating.
A broad discussion was had on our Parish Schools in the area. Some have large numbers and some are struggling. A request will be made to the CEM (Catholic Education Melbourne), no longer the CEO, to clarify their predications for enrolments based on the statistics that they have available.
All those present indicated that there had been a significant dip in the number of Catholic couples presenting for the sacrament of matrimony. In some areas this is half and less than three years ago. It is clear that a Church marriage is declining very significantly. Although this discussion did not include a discussion of the proposed “Marriage Equality” plebiscite, should there be legislation in favour of this, then marriage will again become the sacramental celebration distinct from the civil arrangements. That may not be a negative development.
The final discussion was on the seminary and the pastoral preparation, including the liturgical education, that seminarians receive.