St Mary's

In attempting to act justly, we are called to conduct our own community affairs justly, but especially to give priority to the marginalised in our society in the allocation of our resources. We believe that God’s reign of justice and hope requires individual and collective action which challenges and attempts to change unjust social, political and economic structures in our world.

Justice needs to be informed by God’s love, (agape) and expressed in pastoral care.

In attempting to love tenderly, we are called to build an inclusive community that reflects the realities of people’s lives in searching for the common good with integrity in our relationship with God, self, others and the earth, always dependent on God’s grace.

Love and justice are nurtured in our relationship with God.

In attempting to walk humbly with our God, we are called to cultivate experiences, which nurture spiritual growth based on gospel values and the richness of our tradition. Above all, this will be centred on the celebrating of the Gospel and Eucharist embracing the community’s struggles, joys and hopes.

In as much as we are faithful to these guiding principles and seriously recognise the common ministry of us all, we believe our life together can be a sign to church and society of what it means to follow Christ and so be church in our context.

We, individually and collectively recognise that within our Catholic faith tradition and the reality of our community, we live with contradictions, differences and our own vulnerability.We aim to create an environment where we can do so with respect, honesty, compassion and harmony.

We affirm that we are a faith community of many ministers and ministries which includes recognition of ordained ministry as one who enables the ministry of others to flourish within the structures of this Archdioceses and the wider community.

We affirm that ministry is shared through the energy, initiative, skills, giftsand faith of many individuals who worship together in this community.The designated priest is responsible for presiding at liturgies and has pastoral oversight within the community.The priest is a facilitator of the spiritual and prophetic ministry of the community.

We affirm a Community council, which will provide collaboration and consultation for all members of St. Mary’s through forums, hearing days, gathering days, open days and special task/projects etc.

We are committed to clear communication and will endeavour to establish processes which ensure this.

We affirm Micah Inc is a social justice ministry of St. Mary’s Community. We employ workers through fair and non-discriminatory employment practises.