The National Deacons’ Association holds a Conference every two years. The most recent conference was hosted by the Dioceses of South Australia and was held in the Adelaide Hills from 27th February to 2nd March. Deacons Charles Applin and Terry Mahony, accompanied by their wives, represented the Bathurst Diocese.

The theme of the Conference was, “Pilgrims of Hope: Believe what you read, teach what you believe, practise what you teach”. The first keynote speaker was Deacon Bill Ditewig from the US. He addressed the idea of pilgrimage as an opportunity to move from lament to praise and hope. His main points were that we all require:

• patience, both the patience of God and patience of a pilgrim.
• our pilgrimage must be guided by the spirit.
• an awareness of a visionary future with God.
• A willingness to confront fear.

Scripture tells the story of God’s People constantly moving from Lament towards a closer relationship with the Divine. In each stage of our human history people face challenges. It is only when people recognise their need for God and commence placing their trust in God that the journey becomes a pilgrimage. The role of the Deacon is to journey with people on their pilgrimage. 

In his second address he unpacked the five elements charged to the Deacon at their ordination:

• Receive – the Gospel, The Word must lead to action and guide that action.
• Herald – not merely announcing but providing confidence, protection and guidance.
• Believe – must be connected more to the heart rather than simple intellectual accent.
• Teach – being a witness is the core to helping others build a relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Practice – this essentially requires integrity in life – living by the gifts of the Spirit.

Father Michael Trainor was the second keynote speaker. He highlighted the concept that Jesus’ ministry provides a valuable template to guide the deacon in his life. In Jesus’ time there was much injustice and hardship. Our society faces the same core challenges, justice for the disadvantaged, care for our environment and a sense of hopelessness. Jesus sought forgiveness, service and communion. This continues to be the role of the church and the deacon today; to accompany and advocate for those who are left out and have no voice, and lead them to hope through belief in Jesus.

The Conference was opened by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan and attended by 80 Deacons from across Australia and their wives. The Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Balvo graced us with his presence for the whole conference and celebrated Mass on Friday and Saturday mornings. Archbishop Patrick celebrated the Sunday morning Mass to close the conference.

For the group from Bathurst, it was a special time to catch up with Archbishop Patrick who had been instrumental in their formation for their diaconate.

Deacon Terry Mahony