November 16-17 will mark the third Parish Vitality Conference here in Montreal. In this series, “Leading the Way Together”, we invite pastors, lay people, parish leaders and parishioners to consider practical ideas, and, how we can all work together and inspire each other – embracing our mission – which is to make disciples!

In 2013, Pope Francis shared his dream of a “missionary option” for parishes, encouraging them to grow more connected to “the world of our time” with a spirit marked by the deep joy of knowing Christ, one that is meant for everyone. (Evangelii Gaudium, #1, 10, 27)

As a next step to responding to this call, the English sector of the Archdiocese of Montreal launched its first Parish Vitality Conference back in November 2014, with “Doors Wide Open”, to help provide support, inspiration and resources to our faith communities. In 2016, “Unleashing Our Gifts” was launched, exploring the God-given gifts each of us has and recognizing how these gifts can best help our world, within our own communities and families.This fall will mark the third of our Parish Vitality Conference series, organized by the Office for English Pastoral Services.

We are pleased to welcome this year’s keynote speaker, Fr. James Mallon, from the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Fr. Mallon is the Episcopal Vicar for Parish Renewal and Leadership Support and author of the best-selling book Divine Renovation: From a Maintenance to a Missional Parish. This year’s conference will be held at Loyola High School.

In addition, a Catholic Community Rally will be held on Friday evening, November 16, featuring more than 30 groups and organizations that contribute to the vitality of the diocesan community. This event is being organized by the English Speaking Catholic Council.

Workshop sessions will be offered on Saturday, November 17.

Details and online registration now available!