Mrs. Carol Kuzmochka, presenter for the day, built upon Thomas Groome’s helpful and insightful articulation of these characteristics of catholic identity to lead the exploration of the themes. Helping participants to reflect upon the rich sacramental principle that underlies a catholic perspective of life and which imbues our catholic spirituality, she invited participants to consider various essential characteristics of a catholic identity and ponder how these may be deepened in ourselves. The new Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church was a helpful resource for the day as participants reflected on the church’s wisdom about what it means to be created in God’s image and likeness, a catholic sense of justice, the place of scripture and tradition, and what it means to say that “all are welcome” and “everyone belongs.” This was woven in with stories of life’s experiences and plenty of dialogue among the assembly about insights and challenges.

Participants engaged very enthusiastically in a day filled with dialogue, meaningful reflection and some good humour! They reported rich and helpful insights that help to deepen their sense of who they are as baptized persons; disciples of Jesus called to follow his way.

The next session will take place on Saturday, January 13^th, 2007 when the Diocesan Liturgy Commission will join in sponsoring a day which explores the meaning of and call to Christian Hospitality. All are welcome! Annmarie Brown, (613)738-5025 (x217) or abrown@ecclesia-ottawa.org to register.