Pastoral Letter from Very Rev. Dr. David Ranson
A PASTORAL LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF GOD IN THE DIOCESE OF BROKEN BAY ON RECENT EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA Letter introduction: full letter can be accessed via link at end of this news item. Over the coming weeks, a number of matters will attract considerable public attention: the commencement in Perth on Tuesday 21 July of a 15-day trial by jury of Bishop Christopher Saunders, formerly of the Diocese of Broome, for multiple historical sexual offence charges; the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry involving Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) commencing in Sydney on Monday 27 July; and the continuing scrutiny of the liability of the Religious Congregation of the Christian Brothers in Australia. The events to unfold over the coming weeks touch different dimensions of ecclesial life. Some concern questions of personal conduct and accountability; others concern governance and stewardship; still others remind us of the changing face of Relig...