The first round of Deanery Forums will soon take place in Bendigo, Shepparton and Wangaratta, providing an invaluable opportunity for inter-parish dialogue, collaboration and shared reflection.

The Deanery Forums are Project 7 of the ten practical projects listed in the Diocese’s Formation Support Plan, designed to support our Strategic Mission and Pastoral Goals within the Vision, “Go therefore, make disciples of all nations …” [Matthew 28:19]. And, as Pope Francis reminded us, missionary disciples are not born—they are formed (Evangelii Gaudium, nn.160-173).

Geoff Gowdie, Assistant Director of Mission and Pastoral Life, explains the rationale behind these Forums.

‘There was a strong desire emerging through the parish consultations of recent years for parishes to be able to talk to one another. There is a strong desire in the Chancery to dialogue with parishes and listen to what they care about. Deanery Forums are a means to give both those desires a chance to breathe. There aren’t magic answers to the challenges we face today, but we do know that prayerfully talking, listening and working together opens a door for the Holy Spirit to enter in a fresh way. This is not a ‘done and dusted’ in one gathering phenomenon, but a new beginning for deanery connecting and mission.’

Purpose of the Forums

The forums aim to bring together participants from across each deanery to:

• Strengthen connections among parishes and foster a sense of shared mission.

• Articulate needs, share perspectives and identify common priorities with the support of Chancery teams.

• Engage in constructive dialogue with Chancery Mission and Pastoral Life and Finance-Administration staff on matters affecting parish life.

• Explore practical ways for ongoing collaboration between parishes, and with Chancery teams.


The day will focus on discussions and mutual learning, with brief updates from the Chancery teams to support conversation.

Priests, parish leaders, PPC/PFC chairs and members, pastoral and administrative staff, and ministry coordinators/volunteers are strongly encouraged to participate in their local Deanery Forum.

Lunch will be provided.

Western Deanery Forum
Tuesday 24 February, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Parish Hall, White Hills
Register for the Western Deanery Forum via Trybooking.

Goulburn Valley Deanery Forum
Wednesday 11 March, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
St Brendan’s, Shepparton
Register for the Goulburn Valley Forum via Trybooking. 

Northeastern Deanery Forum
Thursday 19 March, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Christ the King Parish, Wangaratta
Register for the Northeastern Deanery Forum via Trybooking.