The Art of Proclamation: Diocese of Sale Empowers Participants

Photo: Participants at St Patrick's parish, Pakenham 

The Diocese of Sale recently organised two impactful sessions on the Art of Proclamation, held at St Mary's Parish in Bairnsdale and St Patrick's Parish in Pakenham. With about 90 participants from across the Diocese, these events aimed to emphasise the significance of effective proclamation over simple reading.

Led by Sophy Morley, Diocesan Coordinator for Liturgy & Pastoral Ministry and Diocesan Director of Music, the session at St Mary's Parish in Bairnsdale proved to be a transformative experience. Participants

were provided with practical tips, reading practices, and constructive critiquing opportunities, fostering an environment of shared learning and growth.

The session commenced with a warm welcome from Fr Michael Willemsen, the Parish Priest of St Mary's Parish Bairnsdale. He expressed gratitude for the participants' commitment to enhancing their proclamation skills. Present throughout the session were Fr Hiep Nguyen and Fr Mark Hughes, the assistant parish priests, who also shared their approaches to preparing for Sunday liturgies.

Notably, the workshop drew attendees from various neighbouring areas, including Paynesville, Yarram, Maffra, Sale, Lakes Entrance, Traralgon and beyond. Among the participants were parish staff members Michael Flynn and Michelle Grimsted, alongside parishioners eager to deepen their proclamation abilities. The session concluded with a delightful lunch, providing a valuable opportunity for participants to connect, share their experiences, and build meaningful relationships.

The second session, held at St Patrick's Parish in Pakenham, featured the collaboration of Sophy Morley and Sr. Dr. Rose Duffy csb, the Spirituality and Faith Formation Leader at the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Ltd. The parishioners of Berwick, Cranbourne, Clyde North, Nar Nar Goon, and surrounding areas were privileged to attend this enriching gathering.

 

The session commenced with a warm welcome from Fr Janeesh Jose, the Parish Priest of St Patrick's Parish Pakenham. He appreciated the participants' commitment to furthering their proclamation skills. Fr Janeesh also shared his personal insights and techniques for effective reading and preparation. The presence of dedicated parish staff members Katrina Venn and Althea Xavier added to the vibrant atmosphere as they joined the parishioners in their pursuit of becoming better proclaimers.

These sessions, held on either end of the region, demonstrate the Diocese of Sale's commitment to empowering its members with the art of proclamation. By providing valuable training opportunities and fostering a shared learning environment, the Diocese equips its participants with the necessary tools to effectively communicate the richness of the Word of God.

As participants return to their respective parishes, armed with newfound knowledge and inspiration, the impact of these sessions will ripple throughout the Diocese. The Diocese of Sale celebrates the commitment of these individuals in honing their proclamation skills, as they continue to inspire and engage the faithful in their spiritual journey.

Through these workshops, the Diocese of Sale strengthens its mission of spreading the Good News and fostering a deeper connection between the Word of God and the hearts of its people. The journey toward becoming skilled proclaimers is an ongoing one, and the Diocese stands alongside its participants, ready to support and guide them as they continue to develop this sacred art.