The purpose of the gathering was to discuss some of the main issues that the next Chapter will have to address. Through the meeting the Provincial, Brother Paul O'Keeffe, hoped to obtain an idea of how the Brothers were thinking on matters such as retirement, present and future ministries, health, and spiritual and professional sabbaticals.

Three groups of Brothers had been commissioned by the Provincial Council to prepare sessions on a given area: "From Abundance to Scarcity" which addressed, in a positive way, where we will allow our diminishing numbers to take us; "Managing our Financial Resources" which looked at how we may best use the finances we have; and "Health and Welfare" which accepted the axiom that a healthy and happy Brother is a more effective Brother. These groups spent several months in preparation for the assembly, time, which by the final results of the gathering, had been well spent.

The first session took place on Tuesday afternoon in the Ryde's house at The Entrance. Never missing the opportunity to socialise together, this was followed by a sumptuous barbecue. Wednesday was spent at the conference room at the local RSL Club of The Entrance.

A great spirit was present and the Brothers were keen to listen and to share, and on occasion to try something a little different. We allowed ourselves to be inspired by each other's presence and words - especially the presence of our senior Brothers.

No final decisions were made on the day, but there is no doubt that the Provincial Council is now much in tune with the feelings of the whole Sydney section of the Province.
 

Shadow images and then back to work.