by Deacon Mark Kelly.
Our Catholic and Anglican Bishops have long promoted rich ecumenical dialogue, instituting regular Bishop’s Conversations, featuring leading theologians and scripture scholars at “The Abbey,” focused on Advent or Lenten preparation and attended by lay and clergy participants from across Gippsland.
Bishop Richard Treloar and Bishop Greg Bennet invited scripture scholars, Rev Dr Bob Derrenbacker and Diocese of Sale’s own Rev Dr Francis Otobo to explore the Advent readings.
Approximately 90 people made the journey to Raymond Island on November 26 to listen and contribute.
Dr Bob focussed on Luke 21:25-36 and Luke 3:7-18 and the question, “What should we do?”, while Fr Francis unpackaged Luke 3:1-6 and Luke 1:39-55, emphasising the simple visit with a glorious outcome.
Archdeacon Sue Jacka ably hosted the event and led us in prayer and the Bishops responded the scholar’s presentation sessions, while participant questions and observations further opened up the Word.
Dean Peter Bickley, retiring Dean of St Mary’s Cathedral, co-organiser of the Conversations and a long term leading advocate of Ecumenism in our region was fittingly recognised by Robert Fordham, his Anglican co-organiser.
Photo: Catholic Bishop Greg Bennet, Anglican Bishop Richard Treloar, Rev Archdeacon Sue Jacka, Rev Dr Francis Otobo and Rev Dr Bob Derrenbacker.
(Courtesy: Jo Perry from Morwell Anglican Parish)
