From 3–5 July 2025, people from ministries across the Diocese gathered at Invercauld House, Goonellabah, for the first Diocesan retreat held in several years. Guided by Bishop Greg Homeming, the retreat offered a rare opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and enter into a space of stillness, silence, prayer, and shared reflection.
Set in the peaceful and tranquil surrounds of Invercauld House, attendees experienced physical rest, thanks to comfy accommodation and nourishing meals. The well-structured program included time for personal reflection between Bishop Greg’s talks, a range of relaxed spots for private prayer, and the blessing of daily Mass.
Those who attended included staff from the Chancery, Crowley Care, Diocesan Renewal working parties, and several parishes including Lismore, Ballina, Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, and the Macleay Valley.
“It was an outpouring of God’s Life, channelled by Bishop Greg’s own life in God,” Margaret Ireland from St Carthage’s Parish said. “We were all united in being so very grateful.”
“The retreat was a wonderful experience,” says Lew Wallace, Diocesan Coordinator for Catholic Mission. “Bishop Greg’s input was profound.”
Bishop Greg’s retreat offered the opportunity to step away from the busyness of life and enter into a space of stillness, silence, prayer, and shared reflection.
Megan Barber, from Macleay Valley Parish and Communications Coordinator at St Agnes’ Catholic Parish, said that attending the retreat was a special experience, well worth the effort.
“It is so rare these days, especially when life and work is busy, to take time out for stillness, for silence, and to rest in the presence of God,” Megan said. “This, along with the way Bishop Greg broke open new thoughts and ideas about scripture, were my favourite parts of the retreat.”
Michael Penhey, Chief Executive Officer of Crowley Care, described it as an “absolute privilege to have the opportunity to participate and share the experience with a wonderful group.”
Those who attended expressed their gratitude to Bishop Greg for his thoughtful and inspiring guidance during the retreat, and for his ongoing leadership of the Diocese. There is strong hope that retreats like this will become a regular part of the Diocesan calendar, offering more people across the Diocese the space to encounter God in silence and shared spirit.
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