“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
JEREMIAH 33:3
Executive Summary
In December 2023, Bishop Anthony extended an invitation to the People of the Northern Beaches Deanery to engage in a pastoral discernment Project, aimed at deepening the community’s understanding of their shared mission in Christ. This initiative, rooted in the belief that the Holy Spirit continually guides the journey of the faithful and that every member of the ecclesial community, through their baptism, shares in the co-responsibility of building up the Church.
The Project aims to ensure that all members of the Northern Beaches Deanery can more fully participate in the Mission of Jesus Christ. The project reflects a synodal approach to discerning the community’s mission to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to the world, with a particular focus on the unique context of the Northern Beaches.
Data Informed Social Profile
The data-informed social profile of the Northern Beaches highlighted several key insights that shaped and guided the consultation phase. These insights include a notable proportion of people identifying with no religion, an increase in Catholic families, a large population of Catholics aged 10–19 years, and a rising number of residents facing social challenges. Furthermore, the consultation invited the community to reflect on whether current parish groupings effectively support or hinder mission, ministry, worship, liturgy, and catechesis.
Community Engagement
The consultation process engaged a broad spectrum of voices, including children and young adults, through Consultation Forums held in parishes, schools, and CatholicCare service areas. Communities were invited to reflect on five guiding Consultation Questions using the Conversation in the Spirit methodology.
A total of sixty-nine submissions were received. More than 1100 people participated throughout the many consultation forums, which included the voices of over 330 youth and young people across the region. The Community Engagement phase of the project commenced in early May 2024, and closed early July 2024.
Consultation Synthesis
The summary below provides key insights from the collective feedback of the People of God on the Northern Beaches throughout the Community Engagement Phase of the Project. A detailed analysis is available in the Summary Report.
Religious Composition of the Northern Beaches:
There is strong support for strengthening connections between schools and parishes, with calls for greater resourcing of engagement initiatives, particularly through sacramental programs and faith formation. Community outreach, mission opportunities, and youth engagement were highlighted as key areas for growth, emphasising social justice initiatives, inclusive programs, and contemporary approaches to faith participation.
Family Engagement on the Northern Beaches:
Responders spoke of the need for active youth groups and inclusive family events as key to strengthening spiritual and social connections. There is a call for greater family support through engaging sacramental programs, ministries,
and practical aid, along with making Mass more relevant and accessible. Respondents also emphasised integrating migrant families, enhancing pastoral care, and fostering interparish collaboration to welcome and retain parishioners.
Youth and young people on the Northern Beaches:
Responders expressed a strong desire to support and engage with young people across the Deanery. There is a call to consider a whole deanery approach, with consideration to resourcing and networking across the Deanery. Responders also called for modernisation of sacrament preparation, adopt Mass practices, and engage youth in practical activities. Strengthening community through inclusive events and bridging ties between state and Catholic schools is essential. Addressing digital-age challenges, post-COVID impacts, and supporting vulnerable youth requires collaboration with schools and community agencies.
Social Difficulties on the Northern Beaches:
Local listening and dialogue forums revealed a growing concern about the ‘silent’ isolation of seniors. Responders called for the strengthening of Church-community connections for better outreach, volunteer coordination, and support for vulnerable members. Addressing social issues like domestic violence and mental health calls for more resources and local collaboration. Enhancing support for the elderly, disabled, and struggling families is key to fostering inclusivity.
Current Grouping of Catholic Communities:
Respondents emphasised optimising parish boundaries, resources, and collaboration for better efficiency and outreach. They also called for the strengthening of communication, clergy support, and affordability in Catholic education as vital for community and youth engagement. A unified approach to sacraments, social media, and partnerships emerged as a key priority for enhancing parish life through the submissions received.
Summary Report
Mrs Patti Beattie, Head of Pastoral Discernment and Accompaniment for the Diocese of Broken Bay, prepared a Summary Report outlining the emerging themes synthesised from the local listening and dialogue Consultation Forums. The appendices of the Report also present identified opportunities and challenges, a summary of the voices of young people, and an overview of the framework and methodology that guided the Northern Beaches Pastoral Discernment Project.
Next Steps
• The recommendations of the Final Report will be at the determination of Bishop Anthony.
• A Pastoral Letter will be distributed to the People of God on the Northern Beaches outlining our way forward.
Patti Beattie Head of Pastoral Discernment and Accompaniment, Broken
Bay
PDNB Summary Report
The Project
The Community Engagement Phase of the Pastoral Discernment Northern Beaches (PDNB) Project commenced the first week of May, following the Consultation Facilitators formation gathering on 2 May. Community groups – including parishes, schools, and CatholicCare agencies - were invited to participate, listen, and engage in dialogue at the service of shaping a Pastoral Discernment Submission for Bishop Anthony’s prayerful discernment and consideration.
Communities were invited to reflect on five guiding Consultation Questions using the Conversation in the Spirit methodology. Communities across the Northern Beaches were also encouraged to explore ways to engage young people and capture their voices throughout this phase. Specific guiding questions were formulated for both primary and secondary-age students, with a summary of their responses provided in Appendix 1.
This Summary Report offers an overall analysis and synthesis of the many voices that participated in the local listening and dialogue opportunities across the Northern Beaches Deanery. Additionally, Appendix 2 outlines the opportunities and challenges identified throughout the consultations, while Appendix 3 details the Project’s framework and methodology.
Consultation Questions
A Northern Beaches Social Profile Report was prepared, throughout phase two of the project, to inform and guide the Community Engagement phase of the project. The following questions were developed based on the Social Profile Report. Communities across the Northern Beaches were invited to respond to the guiding Consultation Questions through the Conversation in the Spirit methodology - listening and dialoguing together to shape a Pastoral Discernment Submission for Bishop Anthony’s prayerful discernment and consideration.
To support community needs, the Consultation Questions were also made available in Filipino, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian.
1 The religious composition of the Northern Beaches community shows a high number of people identifying with no religion, many of whom may have once identified as Catholic. What relationships do we have with the people in this group? What opportunities for mission exist in the wider community that this group can be involved in?
2 The data highlights that there has been an increase in the number of Catholic Families on the Northern Beaches between the years 2016 and 2021. What ministries may need to be strengthened or developed to meet the spiritual and pastoral needs of these families?
3 The largest number of Catholics, by age, on the Northern Beaches are children aged 10-19. Also, the data reports that a large proportion of Catholic students attend state schools. What may need to be considered in providing avenues for mission for the youth and young people on the Northern Beaches?
4 An increasing number of people living in the Northern Beaches experience a number of social difficulties: domestic and family violence, mental health and well-being concerns, and difficulties due to the effects of the current housing affordability crisis. What may need to be considered to support and resource the specific social and disadvantaged needs of people living on the Northern Beaches? What areas for outreach may need to be thought through and considered?
5 How does the current grouping of Catholic Communities on the Northern Beaches facilitate or limit; mission, ministry, worship, liturgy, and catechesis? What may need to be considered or reviewed to enhance and strengthen Catholic Communities on the Northern Beaches?
Synthesis of Conversations
The Community Engagement phase of the project commenced in early May, and submissions closed 1 July, with sixty-nine submissions received. More than 1 100 people participated throughout the community Engagement Phase of the Project, including the voices of nearly three hundred youth and young people.
The following is a synthesis of responses from submissions received, addressing each of the five consultation questions.
1. Religious Composition of the Northern Beaches
There was strong support for CSBB’s work in engaging families in their faith journey, with calls for greater resourcing of Parish Engagement Coordinators and for more opportunities to connect through Sacramental preparation programs. Many parents, though not actively practising, value Catholic education for its social teachings, highlighting the need to further strengthen parish–school relationships.
Respondents proposed ways for community groups to support those in need — including the homeless, migrants, and the elderly — through welcoming ministries and initiatives such as student-led outreach or even an ‘atrium’ for doctrinal research. Addressing negative perceptions and past grievances was seen as essential to re-engaging those who have disengaged from the Church.
There was also strong support for expanding and promoting social justice initiatives. Encouraging volunteerism and community involvement was considered vital, with ideas including foster care, disability mentorship, and community gardens. Better promotion of the Church’s work,
achievements, and social impact, supported by stronger marketing and engagement strategies, was encouraged to help draw people back.
Opportunities for mission among non-practising Catholics and the wider community were identified, with an emphasis on meeting people where they are. Suggestions included using church and school facilities for aged care, disability services, or transport for the elderly. Respondents also recommended making Mass and parish activities more appealing to contemporary society and involving communities more broadly in outreach such as Vinnies breakfast and night patrol. There was strong support for age-appropriate faith formation, improved apologetics and catechesis, and ongoing connection with newly baptised children and young families through schools and sacramental programs.
Finally, respondents strongly called for more family-friendly liturgies and relevant engagement for younger generations. Children’s natural sense of social justice could be harnessed through education and parish–school initiatives, particularly around care for the environment. The voices of young people were seen as essential in shaping how the Church engages them, with digital platforms and tools identified as key to effective connection.
2. Family Engagement
There was strong emphasis on active youth groups, children’s engagement, and inclusive events that welcome diverse families. Respondents called for deeper spiritual and social connections, suggesting initiatives such as BBQs, picnics, dances, fetes, intergenerational playgroups, and larger worship events. Welcoming, enriching sacramental programs and initiatives to keep families connected—especially after baptism—were seen as vital.
Family-focused ministries were also proposed, including daycare, playgroups, meals-on-wheels for families with newborns or sick children, social gatherings, family Masses where children are free to be themselves, and children’s liturgy. Reviewing Mass times and expanding access to adoration and confession were suggested to better support working families.
There was a strong call for training laypeople to assist victims of family violence and those facing financial or mental health crises. Mission groups and outreach programs were highlighted as ways to build compassion and service, supported by positive digital messaging. Respondents stressed the need to form and resource laypeople to be a Catholic presence in everyday settings—mothers’ groups, sports fields, and community events— through initiatives like accredited Pastoral Care courses and possible Sports Chaplaincy. Greater support for Parish Engagement Coordinators was recommended, together with strategies to sustain family connections beyond the sacraments.
The needs of migrant families were also emphasised, with calls for greater integration into parish life. Making Mass more relevant and engaging for families and youth was seen as crucial, particularly through meaningful homilies, thoughtful music, and family-friendly liturgies. Social and cultural activities were suggested as ways to strengthen parish community.
Respondents also highlighted pastoral care for the elderly, isolated individuals, and families with disabilities, with initiatives such as Bible study and faith-sharing groups. Practical suggestions included welcome packs, parish interest groups (e.g., swimming, music, exercise, cooking), and stronger collaboration across parishes.
3. Youth and Young People
Respondents called for more flexible and engaging sacrament preparation and religious ceremonies, alongside consulting young members about their preferences and hopes. Practical activities, such as Mini Vinnies and faith-sharing experiences, were highlighted as ways to deepen youth engagement. There was a strong emphasis on the Church adapting to societal changes, including modern Masses, shorter prayers, engaging music, and welcoming parish staff.
Outreach to state school students and their families was considered important, along with creating opportunities for youth ministry through sports, social activities, and spiritual engagement. Developing communication strategies tailored to different age groups, particularly via social media, was recommended, as was fostering connections between young people and seniors for mutual benefit. Opportunities for youth to volunteer and engage with the elderly were encouraged, and respondents highlighted the need for a youth coordinator to be resourced to work across parishes and schools on the Northern Beaches. Respondents suggested hosting events such as movie nights, pizza nights, and discos to foster a sense of community and bridge the gap between state and Catholic schools through joint activities. They also highlighted the pressure of enrolling children in Catholic schools, which can contribute to a “Baptism for enrolment” mentality, and emphasised the need for appealing celebrations and meaningful opportunities for youth engagement.
Respondents highlighted the impact of a hyperdigitalised world and post-COVID-19 social challenges on children, noting the need to support those exposed to online content and address issues such as school refusal and mental health concerns.
Respondents emphasised the importance of providing support and community for foster children and their carers, as well as fostering collaboration between Catholic schools and relevant agencies to support disengaged youth and those involved in criminal activity.
4. Social Difficulties
Respondents emphasised the need for better outreach methods to strengthen the sense of connection between the Church and the wider community, including more deliberate efforts by schools and parishes and appropriate resourcing, particularly for vulnerable members. Volunteering was highlighted as a key way to connect people to the Church, with calls for improved coordination and promotion of volunteer roles.
The importance of providing training for laypeople to support victims of family and domestic violence, and families experiencing financial or mental health crises was noted, alongside the need for initiatives and participation in a variety of outreach activities, including stronger support for programs already in place. Developing mission groups and outreach programs to encourage service and compassion within the community, making these services known to parishioners and those in need, and maintaining a balance of looking outward to identify needs while reflecting inward on what the Church can provide were also emphasised.
Respondents emphasised the importance of greater collaboration between the Catholic community, local councils, and community events to celebrate diversity. Domestic violence and mental health were highlighted as significant issues requiring more attention and resources, including the creation of ‘safe spaces’ for women.
Schools and parishes were encouraged to engage parents through workshops on topics such as anxiety and related challenges. There was a strong call for increased resources and funding for services like CatholicCare to support families and the wider community through social justice initiatives. Practical measures to connect people with support services and ensure legal protections for volunteers, including formation opportunities to assist vulnerable community members, were also recommended.
Addressing financial stress, providing support for struggling families, were identified as critical, with responders noting these efforts could help ‘welcome back’ those who have disengaged from the Church. Additionally, greater support for families facing financial hardship in schools was emphasised, with suggestions such as simplifying paperwork for funding relief to reduce barriers for families in crisis.
Respondents emphasised that the Church needs to become a more welcoming place where people feel comfortable seeking help, alongside increasing awareness of local charities and the services they provide. The Church should also adapt to social changes by addressing issues such as immigration, the cost of living, and using diverse communication methods. Effective outreach was highlighted as requiring improved communication and stronger partnerships between parishes and community organisations.
Respondents highlighted that isolation among the elderly, worsened by COVID-19, requires better support services and greater use of parish spaces for programs. Services and venues for people with disabilities need to be more accessible, alongside improved funding for transport and clearer understanding and access to NDIS support. Domestic and family violence, housing stress, and the need for proactive support for young people were also identified as pressing concerns.
Additionally, there was a call to review existing programs and identify what further initiatives are needed to utilise the community’s gifts and share resources across communities.
5. Current Grouping of Catholic Communities
Respondents suggested reviewing and potentially restructuring parish boundaries to better meet community needs, while combining resources and efforts across parishes to improve efficiency and outreach. They highlighted the value of sharing workloads, resources, and opportunities by creating collaborative ‘hubs’ that are strategic, inclusive, and supported by teachers in schools. Consideration was also given to ensuring consistency of practice across parishes and establishing centralised Northern Beaches resourcing to alleviate the additional workload on individual parishes.
The terms “Parishes” and “Mass Centres” were recommended for review to ensure they align with intended needs and vision. Additionally, responders noted that the movement of priests within religious orders can make it more challenging to form, build, and maintain relationships with the clergy.
Respondents emphasised the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals feel invited and welcome in any parish. They also highlighted the need to reflect on what is working well, what support structures are effective, and where resourcing could be strengthened to better serve the community.
Respondents highlighted the need to enhance communication and cooperation between parishes and make Catholic education more affordable. They emphasised involving young people in parish activities and using social media for engagement, alongside establishing youth ministries and youth-focused liturgies, ideally led and coordinated by one person supporting all parishes across the Northern Beaches. Ensuring consistency in sacramental programs and ministries across parishes was also recommended, as well as creating socially engaging and attractive parish facilities. The development of a LAUDATO SI’ action plan in each parish and school community, resourced and supported by a coordinator across parish groupings, was suggested. Additionally, greater support for clergy in managing multiple parish sites and addressing challenges associated with multiple properties was emphasised.
Respondents emphasised the need to improve communication within and between parishes, suggesting initiatives such as a Northern Beaches Churches Facebook group to share information and invite participation across the community, supported collaboratively by parishes. They also highlighted the importance of developing stronger relationships between schools, parish groups, and local organisations. Additionally, encouraging informal social gatherings and establishing a Ministry for Listening across parishes, inclusive of broader community areas, was recommended to foster connection and engagement.
Appendix
Appendix 1:
Voices of our Young People
Communities across the Northern Beaches were invited to consider ways to engage and provide opportunities to capture the voices of youth and our young people throughout the community engagement phase of the project. Guiding questions were formulated for both primary and secondary-age students; their responses are outlined below.
Primary School Students
• What does the Church mean for me?
• What would help me have a greater sense of belonging to the Church for me?
• What would I change about the Church?
• What could the Church do better on the Northern Beaches?
The responses received from students include various perspectives and suggestions regarding their experiences with the church community. A significant theme is the sense of belonging, with some students feeling connected due to their involvement in school mission teams, family ties, and baptism, while others feel disconnected because they are not baptised, not Catholic, or find church services boring.
Students spoke of the desire for opportunities to both engage and participate. They enjoy social events like BBQs after Mass, receiving the Eucharist, running PowerPoint presentations, and listening to priests sing. However, they desire more interactive and shorter services, increased involvement of children and youth in Mass activities, and homilies and readings that are more relatable and understandable.
Comfort and accessibility are also important to the students. They suggest physical improvements such as cushions on seats, nicer bread for the Eucharist, and introducing intermissions, fruit breaks, and ice-creams after Mass. They also propose creating a children's room for fun activities and addressing language barriers to make services more comprehensible. Modernising church aesthetics to be more welcoming and appealing is another key suggestion.
The spiritual connection and educational aspects of church are highlighted as well. For many students, the church is a place for worship, prayer, and connection with God, providing a feeling of safety, comfort, and acceptance. They express a desire for more engaging and youthoriented religious education, with relatable stories and teachings suitable for younger audiences.
Youth involvement and activities are seen as vital for fostering a sense of belonging. Students call for more youth group activities and gatherings, and make church services more appealing and relevant to their generation. They suggest more engaging music, interactive elements, and opportunities for children to participate in readings, altar serving, and singing.
Inclusivity and modernisation are recurring themes. Students advocate for inclusive leadership that encompasses different age groups and genders and creating an open and welcoming environment for all community members. They also suggest modern facilities, more colourful and appealing church interiors, and contemporary music and interactive elements to attract and engage the youth.
Finally, community outreach and service are emphasised. Students call for greater connection with local charities and community service activities, encouraging volunteer work and
involvement in community projects. Improved communication and promotion, such as better advertising and outreach programs, are suggested to attract more attendees and engage the wider community.
Secondary School Students
• Does Christian faith have any relevance for me personally or for the communities of the Northern Beaches? If not, why not?
• What would the Church have to do to have any impact on people living on the Northern Beaches?
• What are the biggest issues facing young people on the Northern Beaches today?
• What do I like most about living on the Northern Beaches? What do I dislike?
The responses from Secondary aged school students reveal a nuanced perspective on the role and impact of the Christian faith and the Catholic Church within the Northern Beaches community. There is a strong tradition of Christian faith in the region, heavily influenced by the school and church community. However, young people find it challenging to see its relevance in their lives beyond the school environment. While some students from non-Catholic backgrounds appreciate the religious lessons and liturgical celebrations, they feel that the Catholic faith does not reflect the diversity of beliefs within the Northern Beaches.
The respondents acknowledge the significant charitable contributions of the Church but feel personally disconnected from these efforts. They believe the Church could do more to foster a relevant and impactful community by supporting diverse groups and activities. Students are looking for ways to get involved and have fun, suggesting that the Church could enhance its engagement through community support, youth activities, and special events.
Mental health, school pressure, and social issues such as drugs, alcohol, and social media are major concerns for the students. Younger students are more focused on academic pressures, while older students are concerned with broader social issues. Despite these challenges, there is a shared appreciation for living on the Northern Beaches, citing the proximity to the beach, friendly community, good facilities, and safe environment as positive aspects. However, housing affordability remains a significant concern for this group of young people.
The group also identified several challenges, including the perceived incompatibility between Church teachings and societal values, school stress, mental health issues, and a lack of community engagement. While some students find personal relevance in the Christian faith through community and personal growth, others feel disconnected due to conflicting beliefs and the Church's traditional stance on issues like gender roles and LGBTQ+ rights.
To increase its impact, the group suggests that the Church become more contemporary and inclusive, organise youth-oriented events, and make the Mass more engaging with modern music and relatable messages. They believe that the Church needs to adapt its teachings to the modern experience while preserving its core values to remain relevant to younger generations.
Appendix 2: Summary of Opportunities and Obstacles
The tables below summarise the sixty-nine pastoral discernment submissions categorised as either opportunities or obstacles. Where necessary, the project facilitator has clarified or interpreted statements where she felt necessary.
1. Religious Composition
Opportunities
Community Engagement & Outreach
Engage with the community without expectation.
Involve the Church in local outreach and mission (e.g., community projects, ‘Mind Café’).
Make Mass more family-friendly and increase community presence.
Provide opportunities for youth in mission and social justice activities and initiatives. Reach out to vulnerable groups, (homeless, victims of domestic violence, refugees) with targeted support.
Support for Clergy & Parish Life
Build stronger support networks for Clergy to meet pastoral priorities and be more visible.
Use parish spaces for the needs of the Community.
Welcoming & Fostering Community Connections
Develop ministries of welcome for migrant families.
Support families settling from overseas.
Obstacles
Community Engagement & Outreach
The Church is often perceived as judgemental, irrelevant, or resistant to change.
Historical negative perceptions, especially from historical wrongdoings of the past.
Non-religious and disconnected individuals feel unwelcome; new approaches are needed.
Lack of awareness of the Church’s good work, strengthen the communication strategy.
Support for Clergy & Parish Life
Priests are overstretched, limiting ability to connect beyond Mass and pastoral needs of the community.
Welcoming & Fostering Community Connection
Families from overseas experience disconnection.
Schools and parishes play a key role in maintaining relationships.
2. Family Engagement
Opportunities
Strengthening Community & Social Connections
Foster stronger social and spiritual connections within parish community/s.
Increase social activities; BBQs, picnics, dance, fetes, intergenerational playgroups.
Engage interest groups (swimming, music, exercise, cooking) to build relationships. Develop community-building models across parishes and denominations.
Recognise and celebrate cultural diversity, including interfaith learning.
Family, Youth & Lay Participation
Establish youth groups (Year 5+) and programs for young adults (18–30).
Offer children’s liturgy, family groups, and sacramental programs to enrich faith life.
Initiate mission/service groups to encourage community involvement.
Provide training for laypeople to support families facing domestic violence, financial stress, or mental health challenges.
Support families discerning foster care from a faith and vocational perspective.
Supporting Migrant & Diverse Communities
Connect with migrant families, understand their needs, and aid integration.
Offer Masses and community groups in various languages.
Obstacles
Strengthening Community & Social Connections
Not everyone seeks evangelical engagement; practical connection methods are called for.
Cultural differences can challenge community cohesion.
Parish structures and processes sometimes feel unwelcoming or misaligned with people’s needs.
Negative perceptions of the Church (past wrongdoings, economic concerns) hinder engagement.
Family, Youth & Lay Participation
Priests cannot manage all activities alone; lay participation needs encouragement and support.
More parish support needed for families preparing for sacraments.
Supporting Migrant & Diverse Communities
Better integration and understanding of ‘new arrivals’ spiritual needs are needed.
Cultural differences can affect connection and participation.
3. Youth and Young People
Opportunities
Youth Engagement & Participation
Create youth groups, social activities, and service programs (e.g., Mini Vinnies, faithsharing in schools).
Build connections between youth and seniors through intergenerational activities.
Engage youth via social media and technology, meeting them where they are.
Obstacles
Youth Engagement & Participation
Some youth and parents may be unwilling to participate.
Difficulty maintaining consistent involvement in programs like sacraments.
Volunteer fatigue and limited resources challenge program sustainability.
Funding limitations for youth-focused activities.
Opportunities for youth (18-39) after events such as WYD are called for.
Adapting Worship & Religious Experiences
Make Mass more welcoming with shorter prayers, engaging music, and relevant homilies.
Adapt ceremonies to meet people’s needs (e.g., Mass in classrooms, parks, or beaches).
Encourage priests to be more physically present in schools.
Community & Social Relevance
Organise activities like movie nights, discos, and other community events.
Address real-life issues like domestic violence and poverty to increase relevance.
Adapting Worship & Religious Experiences
Differing views on how faith should be practised and experienced.
Need to adapt to societal changes while remaining relevant.
Community & Social Relevance
Rising mental health challenges among youth (anxiety, ADHD, post-COVID effects).
Technology can have negative impacts, such as addiction or exposure to inappropriate content.
Children from fragmented or non-traditional families may have unmet needs.
4. Social Difficulties
Opportunities
Community Engagement & Outreach
Strengthen connections between people and the Church through outreach initiatives.
Partner with councils, schools, and charitable agencies to foster inclusion and celebrate diversity.
Offer social programs (free meals, school supplies, respite care) and safe spaces for vulnerable groups.
Provide a dedicated contact point (e.g., phone-line) to connect people with services.
Youth & Volunteer Engagement
Engage youth in faith-based and community activities to foster belonging.
Promote volunteering as a way to connect people to the Church and community.
Obstacles
Community Engagement & Outreach
Adapting to social changes like immigration, rising living costs, and new communication methods.
Fear of not being accepted by the Church and associated shame can deter engagement.
Poor coordination and communication between parishes and community organisations.
Low awareness of services offered by CatholicCare and other agencies.
Youth & Volunteer Engagement
Perception that young people are no longer interested in faith.
Declining volunteering and challenges in rekindling participation.
Administrative barriers (WWCC, insurance, safeguarding) hinder volunteer involvement.
Supporting Families & Vulnerable Populations
Provide social justice support for struggling families, seniors, and carers.
Develop programs and support groups for people with disabilities and their carers.
Leverage older community members’ experience to strengthen community bonds.
Supporting Families & Vulnerable Populations
Workforce shortages in senior services and disability support.
Limited resources, funding, accessible venues, and transport for programs.
Inadequate support structures for carers of people with disabilities (autism, etc.).
5. Current Grouping of Catholic Communities
Opportunities
Community Service & Social Responsibility
Encourage all to support disadvantaged communities through service and call-toaction initiatives.
Increase awareness of local charitable organisations and services to strengthen support networks.
Offer youth opportunities to engage in social justice projects (free meals, school supplies, community service).
Youth Engagement & Faith Formation Opportunities
Develop dynamic youth ministry programs and family-friendly events.
Provide faith formation that appeals to diverse age groups.
Connect people through interest-based groups (hiking, fishing, etc.).
Welcoming & Inclusive Church Community
Make the Church a welcoming place where people feel comfortable reaching out.
Develop a culture of collaboration and mutual support within the parish.
Support for Elderly & Vulnerable Groups
Address isolation of the elderly through in-home support and parish programs (e.g., Memory Innovations Centre).
Provide greater resources and funding for educational initiatives and volunteer training.
Obstacles
Community Service & Social Responsibility
Limited coordination between parishes and community organisations reduces effectiveness.
Insufficient knowledge among parishioners and the community about available services.
Youth Engagement & Faith Formation Opportunities
Difficulty retaining youth engagement; many seek belonging outside the Church.
Barriers to volunteer participation, including administrative requirements and legal documentation.
Accessibility challenges for families and students, such as cost and program availability.
Welcoming & Inclusive Church Community
Resistance to adapting to social changes and making necessary adjustments.
Support for Elderly & Vulnerable Groups
Workforce shortages, particularly in senior services, limit support.
Growing isolation among the elderly and lack of space to offer services.
Appendix 3: The Pastoral Discernment Project Framework
The Northern Beaches Deanery
Parishes of the Northern Beaches Deanery
Of the twenty-six parishes of the Diocese of Broken Bay, six are in the Northern Beaches Deanery.
Frenchs Forest
Our Lady of Good Counsel, Forestville
St Anthony in the Fields, Terrey Hills
St Martin de Porres, Davidson
The Lakes
St Joseph’s, Narrabeen
St Rose of Lima, Collaroy Plateau
Pittwater SDS
Maria Regina, Avalon Sacred Heart, Mona Vale
Table 1: Parishes of the Northern Beaches
Project Aim
Warringah CS
St Kevin’s, Dee Why
St John Apostle and Evangelist, Narraweena
Manly Freshwater
St Mary’s, Manly
St John the Baptist, Freshwater
North Harbour OSA
St Kieran’s Manly Vale
St Cecilia’s, Balgowlah
The Project aims to understand the unique challenges and opportunities distinct to the Northern Beaches Deanery in order to develop a Pastoral Mission that enables all in the community the opportunity to participate more fully in the Mission of Jesus Christ.
Project Objectives:
To identify strategies, tools, and resources that will support each person’s Baptismal call to fulfil their mission of proclaiming the Good News to all.
To develop more effective strategies for mission, by knowing and understanding the people, circumstances, and opportunities that will effectively allow the implementation of Bishop Anthony’s Pastoral Priorities.
To develop mechanisms that enable active collaboration of all people and various stakeholder groups to contribute to the life of the Church in more Synodal ways.
Time Line:
Project Phases:
Phase Scope
Phase 1 Project Development and Communication
Define the objectives and outline the scope of the work.
Phase 2 Data Informed Social Profile
Gathering relevant data and research which will support the achievement of the objectives.
Phase 3 Engaging with the Community
Opening up circles of conversation, according to what the data is informing us, and prayerfully responding to the needs of the community.
Phase 3 Defining the Plan
Defining and communicating the specific goals, objectives, and strategies for mission on the Northern Beaches, aligned to Bishop Anthony’s Pastoral Priorities.
Expert Stakeholder Group
An Expert Stakeholder Group (ESG) was formulated, with each member providing insights into trends, issues, and opportunities that outlined additional emerging issues for the Northern Beaches. Meetings were held with each of the stakeholders, including Catholic Schools Broken Bay (CSBB) to gain their valuable insights of the Northern Beaches (NB) region.
Stakeholder Group
• Local Member of State Parliament: Manly
• Local Member of State Parliament: Pittwater
• Local Member of State Parliament: Wakehurst
• Local Member of State Parliament: Davidson
• Dee Why Crime Prevention Officer
• Manager CatholicCare Family Services NB
• CSBB Northern Beaches Strategy Lead
• Director Secretariat for Clergy
• Northern Beaches Dean
Data Informed Social Profile Report
A Northern Beaches Social Profile Report was prepared, throughout phase two of the project, to inform and guide the Community Engagement phase of the project. The data collated in the PDNB Social Profile Report was collated from several sources, including:
• Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)
• Catholic Schools NSW: Strategic Snapshot Reports
• NSW Government
Engaging with the Community Consultation Facilitators
Community Leaders across the Northern Beaches were invited to nominate a Consultation Facilitator (or small team) to lead and facilitate the listening and dialogue conversations within their community. The nominated facilitators/ small teams were provided with formation, resources, and ongoing support to lead their community’s consultation at the service of shaping a pastoral discernment submission for Bishop Anthony’s consideration.
The resources prepared included the Consultation Facilitator Guide, Consultation Facilitator Tool-kit, Individual Reflection Guide, and Small Group Conversation Summary. These guides were made available on the Diocesan Pastoral Discernment Northern Beaches webpage.
https://www.bbcatholic.org.au/mission/pdnb/ consultation-resources/consultation-resources
• Social Profiles prepared by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference; 2016, 2021
• The Diocese of Broken Bay
• NCPR of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference from Census data obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics
• Population and Household forecasts 2021 to 2041, prepared by .iD August 2023
• Northern Beaches Council, State of Wellbeing Report 2022
• Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter, Annual Report 2022 – 2023
• Northern Beaches Council, Youth Voice Action Plan 2028
• BOCSAR | NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research
• Catholic Schools Broken Bay
• CatholicCare Broken Bay
• Catholic Schools NSW
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
• NSW Government: Communities and Justice
• NCOSS NSW Council of Social Service
Pastoral Discernment Formation Opportunity
A formation opportunity Becoming a More Synodal Church was held Friday 23 February with the aim of deepening participants' understanding of synodality. It also provided an opportunity to explore more deeply Conversation in the Spirit, the methodology used to guide the Pastoral Discernment community consultation, listening, and dialogue sessions.
The formation opportunity was facilitated by Br Ian Cribb SJ. Br Ian was one of the six Australian spiritual conversation facilitators at the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops gathering in Rome. He also guided the discernment process for the synthesis in Oceania and for the FCBCO Assembly in Suva. He was a key figure in the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia and has also facilitated retreats for the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference.
The main features that were explored throughout the formation opportunity included;
i Listening,
ii Discernment and
iii Conversation in the Spirit methodology
Briefing Circles
At the commencement of the Project, people of the Northern Beaches were invited to participate in one of four repeated online ‘Briefing Circles’. Through these online gatherings, participants had the opportunity to learn more about the project and discuss together the following three questions;
1. What questions do you have about the project?
2. What are the opportunities that you see?
3. What are your hopes for the project?
Community Forum
Prior to the commencement of the Community Engagement Phase of the Project, the people of the Northern Beaches were invited to an inperson gathering at Frenchs Forest Parish. This gathering provided an opportunity to hear key insights from the data, learn about the guiding questions, and understand the consultation methodology.
A Conversation Forum gathering was held on 27 July. This in-person event welcomed all members of the community, providing an opportunity to explore emerging themes and engage in further consultation. Once again, the Conversation in the Spirit methodology was used to support and guide discussions.
Submissions
Community groups were invited to submit a Pastoral Discernment Submission for Bishop Anthony’s prayerful discernment and consideration through an online portal. While the project encouraged community groups to gather for conversation and collaboratively formulate a submission, individual submissions were also accepted.
Submissions closed on 1 July, with sixty-nine submissions were received. More than 1100 people participated throughout the community Engagement Phase of the Project, including the voices of over 330 youth and young people.
The following tables outline the types of submissions received and participation across the Diocese, mostly from the People of God on the Northern Beaches.
Table 2: above outlines a summary of Submissions received across the Deanery.
Synodal Approach – Listening Further
Our regional discernments have provided the People of God in each region of our Diocese with opportunities to gather in shared conversation in service of the Mission. In September 2024, Bishop Anthony received the Final Report for the Pastoral Discernment Northern Beaches Project. Since receiving the Report, Bishop Anthony has taken time to reflect on its outcomes. During this period of reflection, he has recognised several significant pastoral opportunities that required further consultation and discussion. In December 2024, he wrote to the People of God in the Northern Beaches Deanery, emphasising the importance of ‘listening further’ in an authentic synodal spirit.
Table 3: above outlines the types of Submissions received across Diocesan agencies.
In deepening our Diocesan commitment to synodality, additional listening and dialogue conversations were planned during the first half of 2025. Part of this “listening further” involved inviting the clergy of the Northern Beaches to participate in a “Clergy-in-Council” – another important exercise of synodality - on 28 June 2025, specifically to consider together some of the key pastoral themes that had emerged.
www.bbcatholic.org.au/pdnb
