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Christchurch Diocese Focus Day 8 April 2006

Fr Brian Traynor CP facilitated the Christchurch Diocese Focus day in the wonderful Parish facilities of St Josephs in Papanui. The ‘focus’ of the day was the four key points of the Pastoral Plan, Communio, Collaboration, Holiness and Mission.

This was our opportunity to meet the challenge of the Pastoral Plan document. “Review their present activities and effectiveness in the light of the Pastoral Plan”

Representatives from participating Parishes in the diocese attended the day as well as members of the clergy and Mike Stopforth, the recently appointed Bishop’s Deputy.
The programme was fantastic and provided healthy debate for all involved. The day was very positive as to the future of Passionist Family Groups and how they meet the needs of the people and the Diocesan Plan.

The day started with Prayer time and the story of The Silver Box. We were encouraged to talk to people in our daily lives as if we were giving them a gift, hence “The Silver Box” theme.

John & Helen Walsh were presented with a certificate for their 10years + service to Passionist Family Groups in the Diocese, the last five being Regional Coordinators. They are stepping aside from their regional role and we know that they will continue to sustain and promote Family Groups in New Zealand.

Pope John Paul, speaking in France in 1982, said “I encourage you to have as your aim, the quality of your Christian communities. This undoubtedly is more important than their quantity. People need to find there first of all, a high quality spirit of welcome, thanks to the presence of likeable and competent people whether they be priests, religious or lay people.”