In May, our cathedral community gathered for the Parish Alive Conference, a weekend centred on the theme of becoming missionary disciples and growing together as the Cathedral Parish community. Over 230 people attended the conference, representing a wonderful cross-section of Cathedral parish life. The strong attendance reflected a real desire within our community to deepen faith, strengthen relationships, and explore how we are being called to live and share the Gospel in today’s world.

The conference began with a shared dinner, creating a welcoming atmosphere where people could connect and meet new faces. One of the joys of the gathering was seeing parishioners, drawn from among our Mass communities, ministries, and age groups, spending time together and building deeper connections.
We were blessed to hear inspiring keynote addresses from Bishop Michael and Cathedral Administrator, Fr Simon Eccleton. They both drew from the example of the early Church in the Acts of the Apostles, highlighting the importance of creating spaces where people can encounter Christ, grow in faith together, and support one another in everyday life.
Throughout the weekend, various workshops offered practical ways for parishioners to live out their faith more intentionally in their homes, workplaces, and communities. A strong theme emerging throughout the conference was the importance of authentic relationships and small groups. Participants were encouraged to see that missionary discipleship is not reserved for a few, but is the calling of every baptised person.
There was a genuine sense of hope and encouragement throughout the weekend, with many people expressing gratitude for the opportunity to gather, pray, learn, and grow in relationship with one another. As the Cathedral community, we continue to reflect on how the Holy Spirit is inviting us to become a more welcoming, connected, and missionary community — one where people encounter not only good faith formation, but the living presence of Christ through the beauty of the Church’s liturgy and in one another. The Parish Alive Conference was a reminder that renewal begins when people gather with open hearts, willing to listen to God and take the next step together in faith.

Published in Inform Issue 149 - Winter 2026

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