Christchurch hosts event on raising disciples, growing leaders

The event was a new style of gathering with a special aim to help parish leaders enter into a shared time of learning, discussion and collaboration.

It was a partnership between the Christchurch Diocese’s Bishop’s Pastoral Office and Divine Renovation, bringing a two-day programme together with facilitator Brent Dolfo, a Canadian leadership coach and ministry consultant.

Mr Dolfo facilitated a process whereby parish teams spent time working through vision and strategy for their discipleship and leadership pathways. Aspects of the event involved reflecting on current challenges and opportunities for evangelisation and leadership.

During the event, Brett Powell, the new CEO of Divine Renovation, presented live from Canada on the topic of making missionary disciples. On the second day, Divine Renovation founder Fr James Mallon joined online for a live Q and A, where he shared, with candour and humour, the joys and trials of transforming a declining parish into one that prioritises evangelisation and apostolic mission.

Alpha was highlighted as a valuable tool as part of parish ministry in evangelisation. Christchurch Diocese has many parishes offering the Alpha programme with a diocesan initiative set to launch in 2027.

Mike Stopforth, director of the Bishop’s Pastoral Office, said the gathering provided the opportunity for insightful input, parish reflection and cross-parish sharing and collaboration that created an energising atmosphere that left participants encouraged and enthused for their journey ahead.

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Parish Renewal Event Focuses on Discipleship and Leadership (Catholic Diocese of Christchurch)