A community house has opened in the Palmerston North Diocese where young people can live together while they discern their purpose in life.
The vision of Bishop Peter Cullinane, Emmaus House brings together single 20- to 35-year-old Catholics to continue their usual lifestyle of work, study and recreation while sharing a simple life of common prayer, reflection and ministries to develop a deeper level of spirituality.
Emmaus House provides the latest and best Catholic literature through parish and diocesan library facilities as well as access to the internet.
Community members explore the commitment that is required for each of the different vocations that are available to them including the single or married life, the religious life or priesthood.
As well, members of the community may wish to be trained and serve as sacristans, proclaimers of the word, or ministers of the Eucharist.
The gifts of community members can be used for making the Kingdom of God a reality in their daily lives. Such gifts may include music, art, craft, interpreting scripture, adult and children’s liturgy, catechesis of the young or of adults, working with youth or old people, the sick or the imprisoned, the deaf or other special needs groups, counselling, offering hospitality, administration and planning, computer and multimedia skills.
For more information about the new Emmaus Community, contact Sue Ryan (director) on 323-9759, or sueryan@pndiocese.org.nz, or the bishop’s office bishop@pndiocese.org.nz.