A new ecclesial lay community for consecrated women, the Mary Star of the Sea community, was inaugurated last night at a service with Broken Bay Bishop David Walker.
The community which will assist Bishop Walker in pastoral care, will be recognised as a public association of lay ecclesial women.
The launch follows an announcement in May 2006 by Bishop Walker of his intention to introduce a program that would enable women to participate more fully in the life and leadership of the diocese and to foster the feminine dimension of the faith.
Bishop Walker also wanted to provide the diocese with a new ministry for women "based on a deep and personal commitment to Jesus".
A group of women has been meeting for over a year to reflect and determine a "Way of Life" for the new community.
In conjunction with this group, the Diocese of Broken Bay has been addressing issues relating to the formal development of a program and vision document, which will form the basis of the constitution for the new community.
"This project has its origin in my desire to see more committed, consecrated ministers within the diocese to serve our people," Bishop David Walker said, emphasising that the new vocation should not be interpreted in the light of other vocations such as religious life, diaconate or priesthood.
"It is a response to the important emphasis on lay ministry of the Second Vatican Council and an effort to provide an opportunity for lay ministry not otherwise available within the diocese."
Four candidates were admitted into the Mary Star of the Sea Community last night in a ceremony at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish Cathedral.
Sue Beencke, Kathy Moran, Joan Pavitt and Elizabeth Wallace made a one year commitment to Bishop David as members of the Mary Star of the Sea Community.
This initial commitment will be a period of basic formation and education, and appropriate studies will be undertaken. The group will live in a communal home and work in the diocese, undertaking special development programs as part of the process to potential commitment for life.
At the end of one year, they will again discern their commitment and look towards a renewal for three years. A further commitment of five years may be then chosen, after which a commitment for life may be made.
A group of other interested applicants will continue to meet regularly, contemplating and discerning their future involvement in the community.
SOURCE
Media Release, Broken Bay Diocese