Palmerston North event will focus on priestly renewal

The Initiative for Priestly Renewal, in collaboration with the Diocese of Palmerston North, is hosting the convocation from January 25-29.

Writing in the diocesan newsletter, Palmerston North Bishop John Adams said he believed there is a need for more to be done on priestly formation, “not simply in terms of what priests do, but who they are. It is about the identity of priesthood”.

“At the end of January 2027, four North American priest formators will join us for what we are calling a priestly convocation. It will focus on priestly identity – who priests are, not simply their skills or gifts, which are there for everyone to see. Priests do not tend to do much sustained work on that after seminary, and I think it deserves proper attention.

“I am excited that priests from across the country will be involved,” Bishop Adams said.

“There has also been interest from Australia, and even the Apostolic Nuncio has said he would like to come for part of it. My hope is that, as our identity becomes clearer, we will have a firmer base from which to become more missionary.”

The four North American formators will be Dan Burke, founder of the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation; Dr Anthony Lilles, specialist in Carmelite spirituality and spiritual direction; Fr Francis Roaldi CFR, preacher and retreat master; and Dr Joseph Holcraft, theologian and educator.

Each day of the convocation will be anchored in the sacraments – Mass, Adoration, Confession and the Divine Office – with three formation streams exploring the interior life, the art of accompanying souls and the grace of the confessional.

The hope is that priests leave with a renewed sense of identity, mission and brotherhood within the presbyterate, rekindled pastoral charity and deeper confidence in the power of the Gospel.

Bishops, priests, deacons and seminarians from all New Zealand dioceses are invited to attend. A fraternal welcome has been extended to Oceania priests, with invitations offered to the Archdiocese of Sydney and beyond.

FULL STORY

A Priestly Renewal Convocation – January 2027 (Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)

Prayer, family, young people and priestly identity | Diocese of Palmerston North (Tūmanako/Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)