First of all, a special thanks to Ian McGinnity and his team of helpers for organising the NCP National Conference at Parramatta. The venue was superb, the guest speakers were brilliant, the discussions were robust, the atmosphere most welcoming, the free afternoon relaxing and enjoyable.

One of the most special of many moments for me personally was in the Cathedral on the Wednesday morning prior to the Reconciliation Rite. I had arrived early and, as the priests began to arrive, I started to think of the many years of ministry given by so many dedicated men. There they were gathering to pray, to humbly ask for God’s forgiveness through their fellow priests. A moment to remember.

National Conference 2011

A decision was made to hold the Conference at St. Leo’s College at the Queensland University, Brisbane from Thursday PM 30 June – 3 July Early PM, 2011. The theme is taken from our Ordination Rite, “Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you preach.” I have just received a letter from Archbishop Bathersby of Brisbane notifying that he will be in attendance for some of the time during our gathering.

Several factors were considered before deciding on St Leo’s because we wanted to ensure the conference location would be accessible to as many as possible. The St Leo’s venue will provide good social gatherings, it has a Chapel and a variety of accommodation options. As is our policy, wives of deacons are most welcome to join us, as well as aspirants
and candidates. More details will be given at a later date. Please put the date in your diary and come and share with your fellow deacons and wives.

Our Website

The IT group, Afterglow Media have been commissioned to set up our website and work has commenced. This will enable us to quickly and efficiently communicate with most deacons. Newsletters, in hard-copy form, will be sent to deacons without internet access.

Diaconal Ordinations

• Peter de Hass (wife Angela) was the fourth deacon to be ordained for the Cairns Diocese on July 4
• Tim Shanahan (wife Jeanette) was ordained in St. Stephen’s Cathedral by Bishop Brian Finnigan on July 31.

Executive Elections

Our Constitution calls for regular elections of members to the Executive body at the end of each Liturgical Year.

This year, nominations will be called for the position of Chairman as well as the Representative for the Queensland Region. Russ Nelson has been filling in the vacancy for the latter position as Harry Housen retired during 2009.

These positions are to be filled with deacons who are members of the NCP. Those nominating a candidate must also be a member of the NCP.

Peter Olsen, Chairman