Using the title of his book: The Risen Christ in the Changing Face of the Priesthood, Donald Cozzens led us in reflection, supported by presentations from Richard Lennan, David Tacey and Geraldine Doogue.

In the main, we saw how people’s perceptions of priesthood in the 1950’s (eg: Father O’Malley and Bing Crosby in the films Going My Way, and The Bells of St Mary’s) changed with the realisation of Vatican II – after which the idea of servant leadership developed.

Critical to all this, however, is the fact of our baptism and our use of this sacrament to develop our gifts in bringing the Good News to our world.

Our ministerial priesthood requires us to acknowledge the primacy of baptism. The idea of a cultic priesthood does not fit in the world of today.

Geraldine pointed out that the people in the pews live in a world of secularism and the Church needs to develop systems of checks and balances to be a valid voice.

Bishop Geoffrey Robinson spoke of the pastoral concerns facing us, and floated the idea that future appointments of cardinals be decided by the bishops, not just a consitory in Rome. If this new idea was accepted, Geoffrey feels the College of Cardinals may unearth another John XXIII, whenever an election is next needed. This was warmly received by the priests.

One of the focus groups I attended explored the ever-changing world of technology. All focus groups were led by experts in their relevant fields.

Meal times were very noisy affairs as ideas and strategies were exchanged and friendships renewed.

There certainly was a positive vibe at the gathering.

Four years ago, NCP in partnership with the University of Melbourne agreed to sponsor Damien Williams to undertake his Doctoral Thesis, and from that, produce a short history of our organisation. One of the highlights of the convention was the launching of Damien’s book: A Short History of the NCP.

It was a great convention, and heartiest congratulations to Ian, the convention planning committee and the priests of Parramatta.

Tony Redden