DIOCESE OF BUNBURY JOURNEY TOWARDS DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY

On the joyful occasion of the first anniversary of Bishop George Kolodziej, SDS, DD’s Episcopal Ordination, the Diocese of Bunbury has launched the “Journey” towards the First Diocesan Assembly on July 30 – August 1, 2026. This is a concrete step for the diocesan implementation of the fruits of the Synod on Synodality.

                In the beginning of this year 2026, Bishop George’s First Pastoral Letter focused on the theme “Connected in Christ, Walking Together as One.” On this theme, the planned Diocesan Assembly is anchored. This is an invitation to walk with Jesus and His disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:17) Bishop George called all the priests, religious and lay faithful to join the “new conversations.” He said, “I have called on for this Assembly because I want to listen to the voice of the people of God in our diocese.”

                The journey towards the First Diocesan Assembly has six phases. The first phase is the launch which happened on March 19. The second phase is the Parish Facilitators’ Training during the months of April and May. The third phase is called “Parish Conversations” wherein parishioners will be called to share their life and faith experiences. This will happen in June. The fourth phase is the actual Diocesan Assembly from July 30 – August 1. This will be attended by the bishop, priests, religious, parish and school representatives. The fifth phase is the review of the assembly report in the parishes. Finally, the sixth phase is the presentation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan as “sweet fruit” of the First Diocesan Assembly.

                Prior to all of these, Bishop George has formed the Diocesan Synodal Team led by the Chancellor, Kerrie Merrit and the Vicar General, Fr. Pierreangelo Repuyan, VG, PhD.