One of the gifts I value in our common association within Catholic Religious Australia is a deeper appreciation of how the various congregations benefit communally, and Religious personally, from our mutual support. Our respective communal charisms, histories, spiritualities and experiences bring life to the whole. Our hearts and minds are broadened as the charism strengths of other congregations bring a more profound dimension to our own. As I write, the congregation to which I belong is preparing for a Midchapter (chapter of review) at which Religious from three other congregations will have a part to play as facilitator or panel members and this is to the good. I realise this is a common experience for most of us but the value of this is worth reflection.

Of course, what can be said in relation to our own interactions as religious congregations has wider application in terms of our being nourished within the broader ecclesial, national and global community. Personally, congregationally and as CRA , these wider links and engagements are certainly important in what we have to offer in humility. However, perhaps more significantly in terms or our own growth, is what we receive in terms of our growth and transformation.

Returning to our mutual support as Religious, the formal annual event where this finds expression in the context of CRA is the Annual Assembly. There is great preparation at present in terms of the content and logistics for this year’s Assembly in Brisbane. All the attendant preoccupation with preparations is necessary for a well-run Assembly. However, deeper than the details, is the experience of being together in a way in which we are each nourished for the better. I look forward to meeting up with many of you at the forthcoming Assembly.

Fr Peter Jones OSA,

President, Catholic Religious Australia.