4797_Meeting of the SDB and FMA Provincial Councils
July 24, 2018
Melbourne, Ausralia, 20 July 2018 -- On Friday, the SDB Council of the AUL Province (Australia, Samoa, Fiji and New Zealand) hosted a meeting with the FMA Council of the SPR Region (Australia, Samoa and Solomon Islands) at the Salesian Province Centre at Ascot Vale.
The two Councils usually meet once a year to share news, to review ministries that we jointly participate in, to acknowledge the contribution each Province makes to the other, and to plan future initiatives. Our two provinces have a wonderful rapport with each other and we jointly participate in many events and occasions.
The meeting concluded with the celebration of Eucharist and a Festive meal.
Meeting of AUL Rectors
The rectors from across the Province of Mary Help of Christians met for the second time in 2018 on July 16-17 at the Province Centre in Ascot Vale, Victoria.
The first day began with a Eucharist presided over by the Provincial, Fr Will Matthews. Most of the day was spent going through the Strategic Plan of the Province [2018-2023], setting the directions and priorities for the six years of the new Provincial. Other matters addressed included information on the Australian Plenary Council to be held in 2020-21 by the Vice Provincial, Fr Bernie Graham, and a presentation by the Provincial Delegate for Missionary Animation, Ms Lauren Hichaaba. The day concluded with Taize Prayer and a fraternal dinner.
The second day was dedicated to the Child Safety and Professional Standard matters. The Province Child Safety Officer, Mr Tom Bagot, led a full morning presentation and discussion. The midday Eucharist was presided over by the Vice Provincial. After lunch, Fr Bernie presented material relating to the upcoming Provincial Chapter 21 to be held in May 2019 in East Melbourne. The Provincial then shared his experience of New Provincials’ Course held in Rome in June. The Meeting concluded with a simple prayer in the chapel during which each Rector was given a crucifix as a reminder of their service and sign of unity across the Province.
