The Diocese of Lismore celebrated a significant milestone in the Renewal Journey on Sunday 15 March 2026, with the commissioning of the Youth (DYC) and Pastoral Councils (DPC) at St Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore.
Following Bishop Greg Homeming’s appointment of the councils in November 2025, the DPC began its journey earlier this year with three online meetings. Facilitated by Lana Turvey-Collins and Patrick Fox from Catholic Mission, these gatherings focused on building relationships and grounding the council’s work in prayer. Members shared their personal faith journeys and life-giving experiences of the Church, creating a respectful space for deep listening and mutual understanding.
The formation retreat was held in Lismore from 13–15 March. Facilitated by Lana Turvey-Collins and presented by Dr Chris Cotter, Director of Mission and Pastoral Life for the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst, the retreat was a prayerful and hope-filled experience. Under the guidance of Bishop Greg, members explored the role of the re-established DPC through the lens of mission, discernment, and collaboration.
Reflecting on the preparation, DPC member Adam Gallagher noted the spiritual depth of the experience: “It’s been a beautiful formation process which has directed our focus inward so we can prepare ourselves to look outwards as a well-rounded and collaborative DPC.”
Dr Cotter drew on his experience of establishing a new DPC in Sandhurst, sharing insights into synodal processes and decision making. Bishop Greg spoke about discernment and encouraged council members to exercise humility — “the greatest of all virtues” according to St Teresa of Avila — and to be confident in who they are, because that is why they were chosen. The retreat challenged members to pray, speak boldly, and listen with humility.
Br Bill Sullivan shared that the gathering was a source of great encouragement: “I left the weekend feeling inspired and energised. The positive energy, connection, and goodwill exhibited by the DPC members offer great hope for our future work together.”
The two days concluded with a joyful dinner shared with the DYC, providing meaningful time for the two councils to enter into dialogue and begin forming relationships.
On Sunday 15 March, Bishop Greg celebrated the Commissioning Mass for the DPC and the DYC at St Carthage’s Cathedral, co-celebrated by Fr James Foster, Fr Paul McDonald, Fr Joy D’Souza, and Deacons Anthony Gooley, Shane Hyland, Chris Wallace, and Graeme Davis.
In his homily, Bishop Greg reflected on the nine-year journey to this moment: “The living God has provided. He has provided two wonderful councils commissioned today. I know with the help of God they will provide what I need.”
