Parish Synodal Team Meeting at St. Ann’s Catholic Church
Parish Synodal Team Meeting at St. Ann’s Catholic Church
On 9th February 2025, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Kingston Hill, held a Parish Synodal Team Meeting, bringing together committee leads, catechists, parish representatives, and community members to review and strengthen the pastoral mission of the parish.
Commissioning Ceremony & Opening Session
The day began with a Commissioning Ceremony during the Mass, where members of the Parish Synodal Team were officially blessed and sent forth in their ministries. This spiritual moment underscored their commitment to serving the parish community with faith and dedication.
Following the Mass, the Parish Synodal Team Meeting commenced at 3:00 PM, structured around an agenda that focused on strengthening parish collaboration and planning for the liturgical seasons.
Key Discussions & Outcomes
The meeting covered essential areas of parish life and ministry, including:
✅ Reviewing the Guidelines for the Parish Synodal Team – Ensuring that parish activities align with the Call to Bear Fruit vision and the universal Parish General model.
✅ Lenten & Easter Preparations – Plans for Ash Wednesday, the Way of the Cross, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter were discussed to enhance spiritual participation.
✅ Annual Calendar Review – Key dates for parish activities were confirmed, ensuring a structured and engaging year ahead.
✅ Pilgrimage Church Development – Strengthening St. Ann’s role as a pilgrimage church, encouraging prayer, adoration, and devotion.
✅ Sacramental Programmes – Updates on First Holy Communion (Christy) and Confirmation (Celia) were presented, ensuring well-organised faith formation for children.
✅ Parish Engagement & Community Building – Plans for upcoming initiatives, including:
- Gardening Improvements to enhance the parish grounds.
- Indoor Community Get-Together on 23rd February for fellowship and faith sharing.
- “Called to Bear Fruit” Initiative aimed at deepening community participation and discussion on the document among parishioners.
A Model of Synodality & Collaboration
The Parish Synodal Team, made up of 25 active members, represents a diverse group including:
- Parish Priest & Catechists
- Committee Leads (Finance, Social, Maintenance, Liturgy, Sacramental, Welcome, Altar Servers, Youth and more)
- Senior Parishioners (50+ years in the parish)
- Young Enthusiastic Families representing parish life
This structure fosters shared responsibility, enhanced communication, and a more engaged faith community.
Looking Ahead
With a successful meeting concluded, the parish remains committed to listening, planning, and journeying together in faith. The next Parish Synodal Team meetings are scheduled for June and October 2025, focusing on upgrading parish activities and preparing for Advent and Christmas.
We extend our gratitude to all participants for their dedication and look forward to a fruitful year of faith, service, and community building.