Greater Western Sydney Central Council members gathered in the greenery of Mulgoa on a beautifully sunny Saturday in early February to start the year with time to explore the ‘Why’ of being a member of the Society, connect and share with other members, and learn more about available services and resources. 

Leon Ross, Nepean Regional Council President, desired to “have members come together to start the year off with spirituality, reflect on the year ahead, enjoy fellowship, and generate energy and synergies,” which came to fruition. 

Mass and morning tea started the day, followed by a rich presentation by Corrine Lindsell and Leo Tucker of the Mission & Spirituality Team. 50 plus members were in attendance and appreciated the time to be together and the variety of input and discussion.  

The afternoon topics included social justice, safeguarding, MAVS, Youth, recruitment, and engagement with the Society’s Housing residents.  

Larry Hegarty, Hills Regional Council President and member of Our Lady of the Way Baulkham Hills found the reflections thoughtful, powerful and came away with simple and practical ideas about service.  

He appreciated the exercise of improving one’s service by asking the Lord, “What do you want from me? What is in my personal cup that I bring to my service?” and reflecting on, “How do I improve the life of those I serve to enable them to flourish, to renew their hope?” 

“If I can implement these ideas into my service, it may improve the lives of those I serve and make me a better Vincentian,” Larry said. 

Many were inspired by the presentations, with one Conference President who was intending to stand down from the position, newly rejuvenated to continue their Conference work. “That to me is the hand of God at work,” Larry said. “I came away from the Retreat rejuvenated and refreshed for the year ahead.” 

The afternoon presentations were an opportunity to meet face-to-face with some of the Society’s people previously only known over phone. 

“They were a chance to bounce ideas off and seek direction from them on issues on my radar for our Hills Region.” 

Georg Eberl, Holy Family Emerton Conference President deeply appreciated the chance to reflect on spirituality, mission and values - who we are and why we do what we do.