Embrace Jesus and his vision by pursuing a deeper relationship with Jesus and learning more about his ways. Church as Build Communion with God and Oth- ers by fostering bonds of understanding, respect and love with God and people within and beyond the Church. Communion

Engage in Christ’s Mission in the world by living the values of Jesus in everything we do and promoting the reign of God in today’s world.

This is a five week adult education re- Through our discussions in our local source to enable Anglicans and Roman communities we will come to a greater Catholics to reflect, share and discuss appreciation of our communion with important issues on the topic of one another and where the Spirit is ‘Church as Communion’. leading us.

Each week’s session (no more than 90 minutes) consists of an opening prayer, brief quotes from the Anglican Roman Catholic International Commission

(ARCIC) document ‘Church as Com- munion’, everyday stories, discussion questions and closing prayer. Communion implies that the Church is For the last forty years or so, Anglicans a dynamic reality moving towards its fulfilment. and Roman Catholics have been in- Communion embraces both the visible creasingly sharing times of prayer, gathering of God‟s people and its divine work and meeting together in a spirit of life-giving source. ... There is held be- growing trust and familiarity. This dis- fore us the vision of God‟s reign over A DISCUSSION RESOURCE FOR cussion resource is another practical the whole of creation, and of the step for local communities in that direc- Church as the first fruits of humankind ANGLICANS AND tion. It is being published for use in which is drawn into that divine life Aotearoa New Zealand by the local through acceptance of the redemption ROMAN CATHOLICS IN Anglican - Roman Catholic dialogue given in Jesus Christ. group known as ARCCANZ. AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND „Church as Communion‟ paragraph 3 32

Notes: Copyright ©AustARC, 2004 Original Production and distribution by Faith Education Services GPO Box 1201 Brisbane 4001 07 - 3840 0599 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system without permission in writing from the Publisher. Used with permission by ARCCANZ (Anglican Roman Catholic Commission of Aotearoa New Zealand)

Acknowledgements Australian Edition Australian Writing Team: Rev Helen Granowski, Sr Margaret Jenkins CSB, Arch- deacon Philip Newman OAM, Rev Elizabeth Smith, Rev Denis Stanley Prayers: Rev Elizabeth Smith Editorial Team: Rob Cosgrove, Dr Rosemary Gill, Rev Geoff Hoyte, Prof John Mainstone, Margaret Naylon, Trish Stapleton The publisher gratefully thanks the contributors to the Stories’ section and all those who provided helpful feedback through the writing of this resource. Design: Rob Cosgrove Secretarial assistance: Marie Ford

New Zealand Edition This ARCCANZ edition amended and adjusted for New Zealand by ARCCANZ team with special thanks to all those who contributed time, stories and editing. For information on ARCCANZ visit the website: http://www.4churchunity.net.nz/

Page 1. Image for ‘Church as Communion’ program. ©Benedictine Sisters of Tur- vey. Used with permission McCrimmon Publishing Co Ltd, Great Wakering, Essex UK, SS3 OEQ. Pages 6, 9, 12, 13, 18, 22, 25, 26, 28 & 30 Photos by Father Yvan Sergy, Page 14, Photo by " Images of the Cross" www.imagesofthecross.com USA used with permission. Page 17, Mania figure done by Wi Parahi Mou Paru of Ngati Whakaeke of Kaikohe for the Hato Paora Chapel. It is an integral part of the sanctuary decoration of the school chapel.

Scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copy- right © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 2 31

Closing Prayer CONTENTS Leader: Loving God, Reader 5:Re-create us in Christ, hear and help us, as we so that, in a divided world, say: the Church be a sign of 4 Foreword God of grace, peace and harmony. by Anglican Archbishop David Moxon & Bishop Barry Jones (pause) God of grace, 4 Introduction All: Hear our prayer. All: Hear our prayer. 7 Leader’s Guide Reader 1: Enrich among us the sacramental life, so that, Reader 6:Inspire us for joint witness 9-12 Meeting 1 sharing holy things, we and practical action, so that, Topic 1 Communion unfolded in Scripture- may we may care for one an- The drama of human existence become a holy people. other and bear with one (pause) God of grace, another in sharing the Good News. 13-18 Meeting 2 All: Hear our prayer. Topic 2 Communion: Sacramentality and the Church- (pause) God of grace, God’s abiding presence Reader 2: Gather up the rich diversity of all our cultures, so that, All: Hear our prayer. 19-22 Meeting 3 by the one Spirit, all the Topic 3 Communion: Apostolicity, Catholicity & Holiness- peoples of the earth may Linking present, past and future generations of Christians come to you. (pause) God of grace, As part of this final prayer you may 23-26 Meeting 4

All: Hear our prayer. like to spend some time thanking Topic 4 Communion between Anglicans & Roman Catholics- God together and recalling what Making room for each other in the Body of Christ Reader 3:Quicken among us the has been valuable for you through- memory of Christ, so that, out the five weeks of sharing. 7-29 Meeting 5 fed by the living Word and Topic 5 The Path Ahead - Looking Forward Together living Tradition, we may be messengers of the Gospel. (pause) God of grace Leader: Let us pray. ARCIC II Church as Communion All: Hear our prayer. Introduction paragraph 2 This little booklet is a reflection re- All: May the grace This statement on communion is to source on the ARCIC II document Reader 4:Give us new ways of of our Lord Jesus Christ give substance to the affirmation „Church as Communion‟ so group expressing age-old faith, so and the love of God that Anglicans and Roman Catholics members may wish to read the full text which can be found at the ad- that, in our own age and and the fellowship are already in a real though as yet culture, we may show au- of the Holy Spirit dress below: imperfect communion and to enable thentic faithfulness. be with us all us to recognize the degree of com- (pause) God of grace, now & evermore. http://www.prounione.urbe.it/dia-int/ munion that exists both within and Amen. arcic/doc/i_arcicII_communion.html All: Hear our prayer. between us.

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Foreword Looking Forward Together It has been a joy and a privilege to One of the unseen fruits of the ecu- be in dialogue with the Roman menical commitment of the Roman Christian involvement in state schools. If you know who is responsible for this Catholic Church as a member of the Catholic Church, described by the late activity record this also. Anglican Roman Catholic Commis- Pope John Paul II as “irreversible,” When sharing is finished, collate the information (example shown). sion for Aotearoa New Zealand for has been the on-going Anglican- nearly ten years. The commission Roman Catholic dialogue in New Zea- Activity already happening Contact works to uphold the special relation- land, (ARCCANZ). This has seen a ship we share as Christian commu- group of Anglicans and Catholics nities, given our common history to meeting together twice a year for the English Reformation, and our prayer and reflection and exchanges common desire to now discover and on aspects of the life of the two parent create greater degrees of commun- bodies. ion between us. From the beginning, it has involved In particular we have encouraged bishops, clergy and members of the the sharing of Ash Wednesday Litur- lay faithful. Importantly, it has sought Step 2. gies throughout Aotearoa New Zea- to involve members with a scholarly You are now invited to make the more challenging step of imagining and think- land. The sharing of Advent Wreath background, because as Cardinal ing creatively about possible new areas of cooperation. They may include ac- Liturgies and as much solidarity and Kasper has reminded us, tivities that already occur but need better promotion and organisation—a good partnership as is possible in our lo- “ecumenism is synonymous neither with kindly humanism, nor with eccle- test is to check how many people knew about all the current activities in step 1. cal ministries. This Booklet, Also think about who might be involved and what gifts they have to offer for "Church as Communion" is a new siological relativism.” gift for our two Churches to share in this activity. Try and think ‘outside the square’. For example, meditation the on-going pilgrimage towards It is important Anglicans and Catholics groups, prayer groups, liturgy planning, music groups, evangelisation, youth deeper unity in Christ. The Booklet can finds ways of sharing together in activity etc. invites us to learn, recall, and build prayer, work and witness, in complete deeper co-operation in our daily lives fidelity to the teachings and disciplines When finished ensure suggestions are specific and can be achieved or passed as well as our Christian community. of their respective traditions; being onto another group (e.g. ecumenical commission or deanery). Decide on at fully themselves. Perhaps this little least one suggestion that this group will take forward. As this booklet goes to print, Pope book will suggest further possibilities. Benedict XVI and Archbishop What are the next steps required to make it happen, e.g. contacting other peo- Rowan Williams have given approval + Barry Jones ple, holding a planning meeting, discussing with relevant church groups, parish and encouragement for phase II of priest, parish council etc. ? the Anglican Roman Catholic Inter- national Commission (ARCIC) to Co-chair of the Anglican Roman Catholic Commission for Aotearoa proceed Planned activity Who? How? By When? Contact New Zealand

++ David Moxon

Co-chair of the Anglican Roman

Catholic Commission for Aotearoa New Zealand

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Topic 5 : The Path Ahead - Communion is one of the most exciting in our families, workplace and commu- realities of our faith. The God in whom nity ... when we offer our sisters and we believe is a communion of persons brothers in faith our deep and genuine existing in a relationship of mutual love. friendship, see what is positive in oth- Reflection and Discussion Throughout the meetings the group has ‘Communion’ names the reciprocal rela- ers and bear each others bur- ‘The ecumenical journey is not only been discussing various issues related to tionship of unity and love that exists, not dens‟ (Galatians 6:2). The Church is about the removal of obstacles but also the building up of communion in the only among the persons of God but be- called to nourish and support this com- tween God, humanity, and all creation. munion and be a „sacrament‟ or „sign‟ about the sharing of gifts’. Church. At this final session we are going to record and affirm the many The Church of which we are members is of our intimate union with God and one Common Declaration of Pope John itself a sacrament of Communion. Com- another. areas of cooperation that happen be- Paul II and Archbishop Runcie, 2 Oct. munion breaks down the limitations of 1989 tween our two churches and plan ways the present moment and in and through For the last forty or so years, Anglicans to further enhance and improve how we God links us to all who have lived in the and Roman Catholics have increas- What gifts can we offer to, and receive work together for the reign of God. At past or will live in the future. It relativ- ingly met together, prayed to- from, our sisters and brothers in the An- the end of this meeting we encourage ises the limitations of our earthly exis- gether, and worked together in an glican or Roman Catholic traditions? you to send a summary of the discussion tence and opens us up to eternity. atmosphere of growing trust and famili- to your ecumenical commission (either Stretching our faith and imagination to arity.” The establishment of the Angli- ‘We cannot,… ignore the effects of our local diocesan or national). their limits it fills us with an excitement can-Roman Catholic International centuries of separation. and happiness that is surely a foretaste of Commission (ARCIC) in 1969 and ...Such differences in communities A large sheet of paper, or a whiteboard the eternal happiness we hope to experi- much more recently the International ence one day in heaven. I warmly com- Anglican-Roman Catholic Commission which have become isolated from one may be helpful to record comments. another have sometimes led to distor- mend this Catholic/Anglican study for for Unity and Mission (IARCCUM) in tions in the popular perceptions which your prayerful consideration and discus- 2001 has enabled Roman Catholic and members of one church have of the Step 1. sion, so that together we may understand Anglican leaders and theologians to other.‟ Take a few minutes to quietly reflect on even more deeply) the loving communion explore together their traditions and activities where you see Catholics and of our God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, practices. The first of these two com- Anglicans working together. They may and its implications for our relationship. missions has worked at the theological Group Discussion include activities at parish or commu- issues which have divided us. The sec- + John Bathersby Roman Catholic Co- ond is exploring practical ways for us  What ‘distorted perceptions’ may oth- nity level- eg, common prayer services chair of the International Anglican- to cooperate together in mission. This ers have of us or do we have of them? at Easter or Christmas, Lenten pro- grammes, Roman Catholic Commission for Unity discussion resource is one practical How might these be overcome? and Mission (IARCCUM) outcome of the work of the second outreach group (IARCCUM). It is being pub-  What are the remaining significant into the Introduction: The concept of lished for use in New Zealand by the differences and barriers between our commu- „communion‟ is central to who we are Anglican - Roman Catholic Commis- two traditions? nity—or at as persons — in relationships with oth- sion of Aotearoa NZ. a diocesan ers and in our relationship with our Our churches need to ask themselves or regional God. At one level we recognise our In these discussions we see several ‘...whether they should not act together level—eg. communion with God and one another key concepts emerging: COMMUN- in our connectedness to all of creation, ION, UNITY and MISSION. The word in all matters except those in which deep ecumeni- as creatures of God. At a deeper level COMMUNION (koinonia) has become differences of conviction compel them cal theo- logical we are invited to participate in the a central idea in all our discussions to act separately’ Trinitarian communion of God, whose together. ARCIC described it as: The colleges or (The Lund Principle—formulated at the persons live in a unique relationship of relation between persons resulting Faith and Order conference held at ministry giving and receiving love. It is manifest from their participation in the one and Lund, Sweden in 1952). training or when we see the love of God at work the same reality. 28 5

That reality is Jesus Christ himself, the Communion implies that the Meeting Five Welcome and Gathering Prayer Way to the Father, who has filled us Church is a dynamic reality moving with his Holy Spirit. Our communion is with the Holy Trinity no less. We share towards its fulfillment. Communion in this through faith and baptism. It is embraces both the visible gathering Leader: In the name of the Father Leader:. this reality that already binds us to- of God’s people and its divine life- and of the Son and of the Holy (Read slowly and prayerfully the fol- gether as brothers and sisters in giving source. We are thus directed Spirit. Amen lowing passage). Christ. to the life of God, Father, Son and

Leader: We pray together the Beloved, I do not consider that I While acknowledging that there are Holy Spirit, the life God wills to significant obstacles to full commun- share with all people. There is held gathering prayer. have made it my own; but this one ion (UNITY) which Christ wants for his before us the vision of God’s reign thing I do: forgetting what lies be- All: church, that fundamental communion over the whole of creation, and of hind and straining forward to what we share through faith and baptism the church as the first fruits of Lord Jesus Christ, impels us to search for ways the Holy In you all things hold lies ahead, I press on toward the humankind which is drawn into that Spirit is drawing us together in prayer, together: goal for the prize of the heavenly work and witness. Jesus prayed that divine life through acceptance of the bless this group that gathers call of God in Christ Jesus. all his followers might be one „so that redemption given in Jesus Christ. in your name. the world may believe‟ (John 17:21). Let those of us then who are ma- The UNITY we seek is for MISSION — Church as Communion paragraph 3 Take our scattered lives and ture be of the same mind; and if that together we might further the mis- sion of Jesus in the world. Strengthening our fellowship in mission allows the form us as a company of you think differently about any- church to serve more visibly as an instrument of unity for a broken world. apostles traveling thing, this too God will reveal to together. you. Only hold fast to what we The following study, Church as Communion, is based on Take our searching minds and have attained. one of the ARCIC texts (1990). teach us as a Philippians 3:13b-16 fellowship of Such a central notion of the Church de- disciples learning serves to be better understood so that together. we may cooperate more purposively

with the Holy Spirit. Take our divided hearts Through our discussions in our local and unite us communities we can come to a greater as a communion of Christians, appreciation of our communion with one praying together. another and where the Spirit is leading This last session is a ‘working’ topic. us. As we read and listen, It is suggested that if possible the as we speak and pray, In this we can take a lead from St John, group share a meal after the opening “And this is his commandment, that we renew your church prayer. In this session the group is believe in the name of his Son Jesus for the sake of invited to reflect and plan practical Christ and love one another, just as he the world you love. steps for the two communities to commanded us” ( 1John 3:23). Amen. work together in the local area.

6 27

Closing Prayer Leaders’ Guide Each person in a discussion group can • If possible, arrange the seats so that make a significant contribution to the participants can see one another. Reader 4: Give us new ways of vitality and effectiveness of the weekly • Set the tone for the first meeting by expressing age-old faith, so meetings. However the person chosen warmly welcoming each person. that, in our own age and as leader or group facilitator has a Introduce everyone. Name tags are culture, we may show specific role — to provide focus and direction for the group‟s prayer and helpful at least for the first meeting. authentic faithfulness. (pause) God of grace, learning. Some groups have a person • Ensure each participant has a book nominated as leader for all sessions before the meetings to improve the All: Hear our prayer. while other groups rotate this role flow of the session. amongst themselves. Reader 5: Re-create us in Christ, • A meeting would generally last 90 Leader: Loving God, so that, in a divided world, The program consists of five meetings minutes. It is important to start and hear and help us, as we say: the Church be a sign of — with a suggested shared meal for end at the agreed times. If people God of grace, peace and harmony. the fifth session with time to explore a want to continue discussion this (pause) God of grace, plan for possible further joint action. could occur informally after the All: Hear our prayer. Each meeting would be about ninety meeting. All: Hear our prayer. minutes. However there may be a Reader 1: Enrich among us the number of reasons for adapting this Preparing for the sessions sacramental life, so that, Reader 6: Inspire us for joint witness process to suit the particular needs of • By paying attention to the setting sharing holy things, we may and practical action, so that, your group. and space for your gatherings, you become a holy people. we may care for one another are seeking to create an inviting, (pause) God of grace, and bear with one another in Below are some helpful hints for prayerful, reflective atmosphere. sharing the Good News. achieving this and leading the group.

All: Hear our prayer. • Preview the material for each (pause) God of grace, session. Reader 2: Gather up the rich diversity of A welcoming space

all our cultures, so that, by All: Hear our prayer. • Display a Bible in a prominent the one Spirit, all the peoples • Is everyone clear about venue & time? position as a focus for the group. of the earth may come to you. Leader: Let us pray. This also allows members to read (pause) God of grace, • At the first meeting there may be scripture references as needed. The Group may add conversational or silent people who don‟t know each other. It is texts in your Bible may differ slightly All: Hear our prayer. prayer together. Then conclude with: important to make the setting as from the ones in this book due to Inviting as possible. different translations of Scripture. Reader 3: Quicken among us the All: May the grace Scripture texts in this resource are memory of Christ, so that, of our Lord Jesus Christ • Invite people to introduce themselves. from the New Revised Standard fed by the living Word and and the love of God This could include their name, a Version. living Tradition, we may be and the fellowship sentence about themselves and the

messengers of the Gospel. of the Holy Spirit faith community to which they belong. • Treat this booklet as a resource. The (pause) God of grace be with us all BEST resource is the life and faith now & evermore. • Is the room an appropriate size for the experience of each group member. All: Hear our prayer. Amen. group?

26 7

 For the last meeting it is suggested • A spirit of goodwill which allows that the group share a meal at the individuals to disagree with respect Making Room for Each Other in the Body of Christ beginning and do some planning for and dignity should be fostered. future action at the end of the People should feel free to disagree meeting. It could be helpful to have without ill feeling. Always remember Reflection and Discussion Group Discussion that the Spirit of God is with the some blank paper and pens. At the  Christians share a common  In countries where Anglicans and end of the fourth meeting organise group — with each member of the vision of the world as belonging to Roman Catholics live side by side, food arrangements. group — because we are gathered in God‟s name. God - a common way of seeing oth- marriage between members of the ers as God’s sons and daughters. two communities is no longer un- Prayer focus • If questions arise that group We share a common system of val- usual. What has been your experi- members are unsure about, any, or ues. How could we, working with ence of the results of these mar- The Leader or another member of all of the group can research them each other, express these common riages? the group is encouraged to set up a before the next meeting. values within the world at large? simple prayer focus each session.  What could we do to support these Elements might include a candle, • Don’t be afraid of silence. People  We share a spiritual connection marriages and encourage couples to cross and an open Bible. may need time to think about the through our baptism, but just as the affirm their own and the others’ question before responding. Word was made flesh, we need to faith? During the meeting • Don’t be afraid of controversy or flesh out our invisible connected-  Discuss the Church as Communion unanswered questions. They can be ness in tangible ways. excerpts from paras 3, 47 & 45.  Is the group keeping to the point? very stimulating. The group needs to How can you get to know the peo- Acknowledge all contributions, and be aware that every question may ple of your neighbouring Anglican  To what extent are we living this life gently keep the topic in focus and to not have an answer at this stage. time. or Roman Catholic Church at a in our own congregation? What Don‟t be frustrated. Move on and deeper human level? would our relationship and mission perhaps include that issue in prayer. be like if we related more freely with  Is the group open and attentive as different ideas are expressed? Exploring ‘Church as Communion’ each other? • Being in a small group should be an

encouraging and nurturing  Are the members respectful of what The way we live out our communion experience for everyone. each person is sharing? As group is our responsibility. The Church as Confidentiality is important and a members become more at ease they Communion describes it as „a life of good rule of thumb is; „what is said will interact more. This is a sign of a shared concern for one another in in the group stays in the group.‟ healthy group. mutual forbearance, submission,

gentleness and love: in the placing of

 Try to have all members taking part? the interests of others above the in- Avoid one person dominating? . terests of self; in making room for each other in the body of Christ; in  Don‟t be content with just one the solidarity with the poor and the answer. Ask, “What do others powerless; and in sharing of gifts think?” or “Anything else?” until both spiritual and material‟. several people have responded. Church as Communion para. 45 (summarised)

 Are members being addressed by name — first name if possible?

8 25 Topic 4: Welcome and Gathering Prayer Communion between Anglicans & Roman Catholics - Meeting One

Leader: In the name of the Father and Leader: We pray together the This last topic explores some of the land. There the Anglican, Catholic, Bap- of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. gathering prayer. areas of our separation and the ways we tist and Methodist churches formed the Amen. are already working together. It acknowl- Auckland Consortium of Theological All: Lord Jesus Christ, Colossians 1 :15-20 edges that there are continuing and not Education, so that students from many Read slowly and reflectively this passage from In you all things hold together: easily reconcilable differences, while we denominations studied together Biblical St Paul: bless this group that gathers in continue to find ways of living out the studies and languages, pastoralia and He is the image of the invisible God, your name. communion which Anglicans and Roman liturgy together with tutorials in their own the firstborn of all creation; for in him Take our scattered lives and Catholics already share through Baptism traditions towards Auckland or Mel- all things in heaven and on earth were form us as a company of apostles into Christ. bourne University degrees. Whenever created, things visible and invisible, traveling together. Chris came home there was interest in To explore the meaning of communion whether thrones or dominions or rulers Take our searching minds and his progress and lively discussion. teach us as a fellowship of is not only to speak of the Church but or powers—all things have been cre- ated through him and for him. disciples learning together. also to address the world at the heart of When Chris and his colleagues were He himself is before all things, and in its deepest need, for human beings long ordained deacon in nearby Waihi, the him all things hold together. He is the Take our divided hearts for true community in freedom, justice parish priest and Sisters not only at- head of the body, the church; he is the and unite us and peace and for the respect of human tended the service but provided a cele- beginning, the firstborn from the dead, as a communion of Christians, dignity. bratory cake for all to share, and later, so that he might come to have first praying together. Church as Communion paragraph 3 when one of those colleagues became place in everything. For in him all the As we read and listen, the Anglican Vicar they made her wel- fullness of God was pleased to dwell as we speak and pray, Story: In a small New Zealand town come too, especially in ministering to and through him God was pleased to renew your church for the sake of Catholics and Anglicans worked together families with both Anglican and Catholic reconcile to himself all things, whether the world you love. as a street community. At the top end of members. on earth or in heaven, by making Amen. a Paeroa street stands the local Catholic peace through the blood of his cross. church, school presbytery and home for Marjorie‟s husband had been baptised in the Josephite Sisters, who, before their the Catholic Church but never confirmed. retirement, had been part of the commu- Over time he was drawn back to his nity who ran the school. childhood faith and was confirmed and received communion before he died. At When Marjorie, an Anglican, and her his funeral, Chris spoke on the family‟s husband, who was chronically unwell, behalf, shared in leading the prayers moved into the street, the Sisters drew and the committal. them into a street community. From the first they called, offered hospitality, espe- As separated Churches grow towards cially Sunday dinner, cakes for celebra- ecclesial communion it is essential to tions, and company for when Margery recognise the profound measure of com- was out. The local priest was very much munion they already share through par- a part of this community of grace too. ticipation in spiritual communion with Marjorie‟s son Chris had served the An- God and through those elements of a glican church as a youth worker for some visible communion of shared faith and years before he was called as an ordi- sacramental life they can already nand to the Anglican seminary in Auckl recognise in one another. Church as Communion p.47 24 9

Topic 1 : Communion unfolded in Scripture - Meeting Four Welcome and Gathering Prayer

This topic will focus on the witness of the could be of more practical help to each Scriptures that reveal God’s desire for unity other as they grew older. Leader: In the name of the Father with us in the drama of human existence. and of the Son and of the Holy God shares life with us and we in turn stand They found a unit for sale which would be united in that life ideal for Rose. In faith, the owner of the Spirit. Amen. Leader:. next door unit was approached to see if she (Read slowly and prayerfully the The relationship between God and would also consider selling. What they did- Leader: We pray together the following passages.) creation is the basic theme of Holy n’t know, was that she had already made gathering prayer. Scripture. The drama of human exis- plans to move to a retirement village. God tence, as given in Scripture, is the moves in mysterious ways! The respective All: There is one body and one Spirit, formation, breakdown and renewing deals were done, and after some alterations Lord Jesus Christ, just as you were called to the one of this relationship. the units were ready to move into. In you all things hold to- Church as Communion paragraph 6 gether: hope of your calling, one Lord, While one house sold relatively quickly, the bless this group that gathers one faith, one baptism, one God Story: Rose and Diane are both in their sale of the other took much longer, seriously testing their faith However Rose and Diane in your name. and Father of all, who is above all sixties – one a widow the other single, one an Anglican, the other a Catholic, both held on strongly to the belief that this was and through all and in all. where the Lord had lead them. It is now Take our scattered lives and working for their respective Dioceses in Ephesians 4:4-6 management positions in the social service twelve months since Rose and Diane felt form us as a company of called to support each other in their later apostles traveling field. They share a passion for their work and a love of small dogs; Diane now has years and they are now settled in their new together. For just as the body is one and two and Rose one. environment. The friendship has survived illnesses and the trauma of buying and sell- Take our searching minds and has many members, and all the A friendship grew and deepened as the two ing houses. teach us as a members of the body, though took holidays together and discovered other fellowship of Rose and Diane share occasional meals, many, are one body, so it is with things in common. The friendship provided disciples learning both with support and encouragement, while transport, gardening jobs, ideas, hopes, and Christ. For in the one Spirit we underlying all of these, a deep faith. They together. they both retained their deep faith as Angli- were all baptised into one body— can and Catholic respectively. Each sup- each express this in their own tradition ported and encouraged the other on a num- while supporting and encouraging each Take our divided hearts Jews or Greeks, slaves or free— other in ways that will enrich and deepen and unite us ber of different levels and yet each retained and we were all made to drink of their individuality. Rose’s adult children their own faith. As they share holidays to- as a communion of Christians, one Spirit. accepted Diane as a family friend – with her gether, both are comfortable worshipping in praying together. own family living elsewhere, this generous either of their respective Churches. 1 Corinthians 12 :12-13 support was valuable. As we read and listen, They respect the differences as well as the as we speak and pray, things they share in common. Both learn Both Rose and Diane lived in their own renew your church homes – beautiful, secure and comfortable. from the other, while neither tries to per- suade the other to change their spiritual be- for the sake of A number of holidays later, the conversation the world you love. touched the subject of how they could sup- liefs. port each other as they grew older. They Amen. wondered about how feasible it was to find In fact in living out their faith, they realize two suitable houses side by side so that they that the Risen Lord has transformed their 10 23

Closing Prayer The drama of human existence

lives and they are committed to deepening Exploring ‘Church as Communion’ that relationship with Him. Read these paragraphs from Church as Reader 4:Give us new ways of Communion. expressing age-old faith, so that, in our own age and cul- Reflection and Discussion In the New Testament the idea of ture, we may show authentic communion is conveyed in many ways. faithfulness. We reflect on our own situation. (pause) God of grace, The news in papers, radio, TV & internet A variety of words, expressions, and are a constant source of worry for many images point to its reality: the people of All: Hear our prayer. people. They bring us stories of a broken God (1 Peter 2:9-10); flock (John 10:14; world, pain and trouble. Acts 20:28-29;1 Peter 5:3-4); vine (John Reader 5:Re-create us in Christ, 15:5); temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17); Leader: Loving God, so that, in a divided world, Name a recent event that has happened in bride (Revelation 21:2); body of Christ (1 hear and help us, as we say: the Church be a sign of your community or in the world that brings Corinthians 12:27; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; God of grace, peace and harmony. home to you the brokenness of the human Romans 12:4-5; Ephesians 1:22-23). (pause) God of grace, community. All: Hear our prayer. All these express a relationship with God All: Hear our prayer. We love to celebrate our unity and and also imply a relationship among the Reader 1: Enrich among us the harmony. However, communities do not members of the community. The reality to sacramental life, so that, Reader 6:Inspire us for joint witness always find it easy to live together. which this variety of images refers is sharing holy things, we may and practical action, so that, Continual forgiveness and reconciliation communion, a shared life in Christ become a holy people. we may care for one another are therefore essential to bring healing and (1 Cor.10:16-21; compare with John 17), (pause) God of grace, and bear with one another in make the life of each community fruitful. which no one image exhaustively sharing the Good News. describes. This communion is participation All: Hear our prayer. (pause) God of grace,  Share together something of the in the life of God through Christ in the importance of family or community Holy Spirit, making Christians one with Reader 2: Gather up the rich diversity of All: Hear our prayer. celebrations in your life. Explain to the each other. all our cultures, so that, by the group what events you enjoy the most. Church as Communion paragraph 13 one Spirit, all the peoples of Leader: Let us pray. the earth may come to you. From your own experience can you tell a Take a few moments in your group to (pause) God of grace, Group may add conversational or silent story of a hurt, forgiveness and peace? read the Introduction (p 5) to this prayer together. Then conclude with: Why is this story important to you? booklet. All: Hear our prayer. All: May the grace Group Discussion Reader 3:Quicken among us the of our Lord Jesus Christ memory of Christ, so that, fed and the love of God  Discuss the images in the Scripture passages above and identity your favourite by the living Word and living and the fellowship image of the Church as Communion. Tradition, we may be mes- of the Holy Spirit sengers of the Gospel. be with us all  What are the essentials of community that are basic to building up the Church (pause) God of grace now & evermore. as communion? Amen. All: Hear our prayer.  What do you think is the difference between ‘community’ and ‘communion’?

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Closing Prayer Linking present, past & future generations of Christians

Reader 4:Give us new ways of Reflection and Discussion Instead, as he who called you is holy, expressing age-old faith, so be holy yourselves in all your conduct; that, in our own age and cul-  Reflect on your own area. What for it is written, “You shall be holy, for I ture, we may show authentic were some of the key milestones in am holy” (1 Peter 1:15;16). faithfulness. the history of your local Church?  What does it mean that the Church is (pause) God of grace, holy? What would a holy Church be

 What opportunities do you see like and what could we be doing to All: Hear our prayer. available for you to connect the past participate more fully with the Holy

with future possibilities? Spirit? Reader 5:Re-create us in Christ,

so that, in a divided world,  What steps do we need „to become‟ Leader: Loving God, the Church be a sign of Group Discussion Church as described below in hear and help us, as we say: peace and harmony. paragraph 41 of Church as God of grace, (pause) God of grace,  Every Sunday the Creed is Communion?

proclaimed in Anglican and Roman All: Hear our prayer. All: Hear our prayer.  Discuss how we can remain Catholic Churches. The Creed is an grounded in „the living truth‟ with essential part of our history and our Reader 1:Enrich among us the Reader 6:Inspire us for joint witness relevance, and faithfulness to the identity. How can Creeds be sacramental life, so that, and practical action, so that tradition? vehicles for deeper sharing and sharing holy things, we may we may care for one an understanding between our two  How does one develop new become a holy people. other and bear with one an churches? expressions of faith when we are (pause) God of grace, other in sharing the Good taught about a God who is News. Exploring ‘Church as Communion’ unchanging? All: Hear our prayer. (pause) God of grace,

When the Creed speaks of the Church as If the Church is to remain faithfully rooted

Reader 2:Gather up the rich diversity of All: Hear our prayer. holy, catholic and apostolic, it does not and grounded in the living truth and is to

all our cultures, so that, by mean that these attributes are distinct and confess it with relevance, then it will need

the one Spirit, all the peoples Leader: Let us pray. unrelated. On the contrary, they are so in- to develop new expressions of the faith.

of the earth may come to terwoven that there cannot be one without Diversity of culture may often elicit a di-

you. Invite group to add conversational or the others. The holiness of the Church re- versity in the expression of the one Gos-

(pause) God of grace, silent prayer together. Then conclude flects the mission of the Spirit of God in pel; within the same community distinct

with: Christ, the Holy One of God made known perceptions and practices arise. Neverthe-

All: Hear our prayer. to all the world through the apostolic teach- less, these must remain faithful to the tra-

All: May the grace ing. Catholicity is the realization of the dition received from the apostles (cf. Jude

Reader 3:Quicken among us the of our Lord Jesus Christ Church’s proclamation of the fullness of 3). Since the Holy Spirit is given to all the

memory of Christ, so that, and the love of God the Gospel to every nation throughout the people of God, it is within the Church as a

fed by the living Word and and the fellowship ages. whole, individuals as well as communities

living Tradition, we may be of the Holy Spirit Apostolicity unites the Church of all gen- that the living memory of the faith is ac-

messengers of the Gospel. be with us all erations and in every place with the once- tive. All authentic insights and percep-

(pause) God of grace Now and evermore. for-all sacrifice and resurrection of Christ, tions, therefore, have their place within the

Amen. where God’s holy love was supremely life and faith of the whole Church, the

All: Hear our prayer. demonstrated. temple of the Holy Spirit.

Church as Communion paragraph 41 Church as communion paragraph 29 Note: This Closing prayer is repeated for the end of each meeting.

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Topic 3 Communion: Apostolicity, Catholicity and Holiness – Meeting Two Welcome „ We believe in one, holy, catholic and and his family became very good friends apostolic Church.’ of the brothers, and each Christmas for This topic will explore how we value our several years we shared the main history and live out our present relation- Christmas meal. Leader: ships with each other as churches. What In the name does our God-given identity look like? In I had many late night discussions with of the Father what ways is the Church holy? Bishop Philip and discovered how close, and of the Son in essence, we were in our Christian and of the Holy Spirit. Amen faith and in the values we cherished. We Story: One of the most blessed times sometimes dozed off in neighbouring in my life, a real gift to the community of armchairs! When Bishop Philip was or- Scripture brothers in which I was living in New Ply- dained in the Anglican church the homily mouth, New Zealand, began with an un- was preached by his good friend Father Read slowly and prayerfully these usual telephone call, from a former Peter. I‟m sure that wouldn‟t have hap- passages from St Paul. brother, Kevin, who had become a pened if Henry VIII were still king! priest. Kevin‟s close friend, Peter, also a Catholic priest, was Warden of St Mar- Once Anglican Bishop Philip preached at Ephesians 2:14-18 garet‟s College, and a close friend of a Francis Douglas school Mass while his Philip, an Anglican priest, Warden of friend Father Peter was celebrant. They For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one Selwyn College. He asked: did not concelebrate, but it may have looked that way to some of the students. and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between A new Anglican bishop, Philip appointed I was ready for complaints. There was us. He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, for Taranaki, is now Warden of a univer- not one. All I heard were positive com- that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, sity college in Dunedin. Could he live ments that it was great to see the unity with the brothers for the first six months of Christian faith rather than the divi- thus making peace, and might reconcile both groups to God in one after his ordination until his children fin- sions. body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. ish the school year? After he establishes a bishop‟s house in Taranaki, his family When Father David died, the attending So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace will join him. Catholic Bishop Owen welcomed Philip‟s to those who were near; for through him both of us have access in

significant participation in the funeral one Spirit to the Father. So the new Anglican Bishop Philip came services. to live in our Catholic Brothers‟ commu- nity. Later we hosted his wife and chil- At the entrance to the home of the Angli- dren as house guests. Our oldest can Bishop in Taranaki, a plaque com- Ephesians 5:1-2 brother Ollie, in his late eighties, some- memorating the blessing of the house on times minded the young bishop‟s 6-year- 19 Sep 2002 reads in part: Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, old daughter Clare and 9-year old son This plaque also records the deep ap- Joshua. preciation of the Bishops and people of as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and the Diocese of Waikato for the hospitality sacrifice to God. Philip lived with us for six months. He offered by the brothers of the De La was great support to and friend of our Salle Order...to the first Bishop in resident Catholic Chaplain, Father Dave Taranaki… during the first six months of in the last stages of his life. The bishop his episcopate. From Brother Bill Firman 20 13

Gathering Prayer Meeting Three Welcome and Gathering Prayer

Leader: In the name of the Father and The Holy Spirit will teach you Leader: We pray together the of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. everything. John 14:25-26 gathering prayer. Amen. I have said these things to you while I All: Leader: We pray together the am still with you. But the Advocate, the Lord Jesus Christ, gathering prayer. Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send In you all things hold in my name, will teach you everything, together: All: and remind you of all that I have said to bless this group that gathers Lord Jesus Christ, you. in your name. In you all things hold together: bless this group that gathers in Built on the foundations of the Take our scattered lives and your name. apostles. Ephesians 2:19-22 form us as a company of apostles traveling Take our scattered lives and So then you are no longer strangers together. form us as a company of apos- and aliens, but you are citizens with the tles traveling saints and also members of the house- Take our searching minds and together. hold of God, built upon the foundation teach us as a of the apostles and prophets, with Christ fellowship of Take our searching minds and Jesus himself as the cornerstone. disciples learning teach us as a together. fellowship of In recognizing the canon of Scripture as disciples learning the normative record of the revelation Take our divided hearts together. of God, the Church sealed as authorita- and unite us tive its acceptance of the transmitted as a communion of Christians, Take our divided hearts memory of the apostolic community. praying together. and unite us This is summarized and embodied in as a communion of Christians, the creeds. Thus the apostolic tradi- As we read and listen, praying together. tion ... spans time and space, linking the as we speak and pray, present to past and future generations. renew your church As we read and listen, Responsibility for the maintenance of for the sake as we speak and pray, the apostolic faith is shared by the of the world you love. renew your church whole people of God. Succession in the Amen. for the sake of episcopal ministry is intended to assure the world you love. each community that its faith is indeed Amen. the apostolic faith, received and trans- Leader: mitted from apostolic times. (Read slowly and prayerfully the fol- lowing passages.) Church as Communion paras 31-33

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Closing Prayer Topic 2 : Communion: Sacramentality and the Church -

Reader 4:Give us new ways of This second topic will explore how the scape and the special hospitality of expressing age-old faith, so Church might be a sign and instrument Hokianga. This is an area where Angli- that, in our own age and cul- of God‟s desire to draw us together in cans, Roman Catholics, Maori and ture, we may show authentic unity. How is it possible when Christians Pakeha all intermingle and share life in faithfulness. are so divided? What sort of sign is the a special way. Combined Anglican/ (pause) God of grace, Church? What are some signs of the Roman Catholic Ash Wednesday ser- Spirit‟s presence and guidance in our vices are celebrated every year. All: Hear our prayer. brokenness? The nearest neighbour to St Isaac‟s is Reader 5:Re-create us in Christ, The Church is the sign of what God has the Land family, Roman Catholic lay so that, in a divided world, done in Christ, is continuing to do in people who have been great friends Leader: Loving God, the Church be a sign of those who serve him, and wills to do for and supporters of St Isaac‟s over many hear and help us, as we say: peace and harmony. humanity. It is the sign of God‟s abiding years. The Roman Catholic community God of grace, (pause) God of grace, presence, and of his eternal faithfulness come to St Isaac‟s Retreat Centre dur- to his promises, for in it Christ is ever ing Lent to walk the Stations of the All: Hear our prayer. All: Hear our prayer. present and active through the Spirit. Cross together. Church as Communion paragraph 18 Reader 1: Enrich among us the Reader 6:Inspire us for joint witness A joint Easter Liturgy is celebrated early sacramental life so that, and practical action, so that, Story: Nestled in the beautiful in the morning on Easter Day. The sharing holy things, we may we may care for one another group gathers at the top of the hill to become a holy people. and bear with one another in Waiotemamara Stream Valley that bor- ders the Hokianga Harbour in the Far watch a horse as it gallops in the dark- (pause) God of grace, sharing the Good News. ness up the hill from down in the valley. North of Aotearoa New Zealand is found the St Isaac‟s Retreat House. The rider carries a large taper and All: Hear our prayer. (pause) God of grace, blows a hunting horn. The Easter fire is This remote, rugged and unique Centre for prayer and hospitality near Opononi lit by the taper and the Easter candle is Reader 2: Gather up the rich diversity of All: Hear our prayer. lit from the fire, including the St. Isaac‟s all our cultures so that, by the was created as an Ecumenical venture initiative from the Anglican, Roman Retreat Centre Easter candle. This one Spirit, all the peoples of Leader: Let us pray. very dramatic and evocative symbolism the earth may come to you. Catholic and Orthodox communities in the Hokianga. In recent years the Cen- of the Easter Light is experienced by (pause) God of grace, Group may add conversational or silent those who participate in this combined prayer together. Then conclude with: tre has been operated by the Anglican Order of the Sisters of the Love of God. Easter Liturgy early on Easter morning. All: Hear our prayer. All: May the grace The chapel is a converted hay barn, the guest house is a shepherd‟s cottage Over a number of years Anglicans and Reader 3:Quicken among us the of our Lord Jesus Christ Roman Catholics have been and con- memory of Christ so that, fed and the love of God and there is also a „hobbit house‟ perched on the side of a hill for individ- tinue to be trustees of the Hauora by the living Word and living and the fellowship Hokianga Health Board. This is a free Tradition, we may be mes- of the Holy Spirit ual retreatants. community hospital facility which is sengers of the Gospel. be with us all unique in New Zealand. Former mem- (pause) God of grace now & evermore. Many people have spoken of the re- markable sense of God they have re- bers have included a Marist Priest and Amen. Anglican lay people and the composi- All: Hear our prayer. ceived while on retreat at St Isaac‟s, due to the prayer life, the dramatic land- tion of the current Board includes Sister

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God’s abiding presence

Mary Maitland of the Sisters of the Mis- How do we experience and give The Church is both the sign of salva- ...to embody it, reveal it and partici- sion; The Reverend Dr David Wil- expression to this in the everyday life tion in Christ, for to be saved is to be pate in „the new life in Christ‟? liams, Anglican Priest and former of our Christian community? brought into communion with God  What are some ways we could con- member of The Waitangi Tribunal, and through Him, and at the same time the tinue the work of the Holy Spirit to- The Reverend Katene Eruera an An- instrument of salvation, as the com- glican priest and lawyer. The Maori Exploring ‘Church as Communion’ gether? munity through which this salvation is clergy of the Hokianga area regularly celebrate Eucharist in the chapel at St For this session you are invited to read offered and received. This is what is  Read again the passages from St. Isaac‟s and Sister Anne, the current these excerpts from paragraphs 18 to meant when the Church is described Paul - Ephesians 2:14-18 and 5:1-2. Sister-in-Charge attends many hui and 21 of Church as Communion. as an "effective sign", given by God in  How do the words of the text speak tangi around the Hokianga Harbour. the face of human sinfulness, division to you in your Christian community? and alienation.  Where do we find our foundation The Church as communion of believers Church as Communion para. 19 and impetus for communion? with God and with each other is a sign Reflection and Discussion Paradoxically it is pre-eminently in its of the new humanity God is creating  Discuss how this Scripture may in- weakness, suffering and poverty that  All of us have many responsibilities and a pledge of the continuing work of spire you to live „communion‟ rather the Church becomes the sign of the than simply „community‟. within our family and places of work. the Holy Spirit. Its vocation is to em- efficacy of God's grace (cf. 2 Cor Yet in the Church we are called to body and reveal the redemptive power 12:9; 4:7-12). It is also paradoxical be, „individually members one of of the Gospel signifying reconciliation that the quality of holiness is rightly another‟ (Romans 12:5). received through faith and participation attributed to the Church, a community in the new life in Christ. Where in your parish or community do of sinners. The power of God to sanc- you see people going out of their way tify the Church is revealed in the scan- ..communion involves rejoicing with to act as Christ to each other? dal of the Cross where Christ in his those who rejoice and being in solidar- love gave himself for the Church so ity with those who suffer and those  We all experience barriers and divi- that it might be presented to him with- sions between Christians — some- who search for meaning in life. out spot or wrinkle, holy and without times these are very painful and blemish (Eph 5:26-27). "God was in confusing. Church as Communion paragraph 18 & 3 Christ reconciling the world to him-

self" ... "making him who knew no sin In what ways do we recognize that Human sinfulness and Christian divi- to be sin for us so that in him we God is indeed with „the others‟ as well sion obscure this sign. However, as with us? might become the righteousness of Christ’s promise of his abiding pres- God" (2 Cor 5:19; 8:21). ence in the midst of his people  *Christians believe that the Church Church as Communion para. 21 is a sign and instrument of God‟s (Matthew 18:20; 28:20) gives the as- presence and action in the world. surance that the Church will not cease

Jesus said: „Blessed are the peace- to be this effective sign. Group Discussion makers‟ (Matthew 5:9). Church as Communion paragraph 20  How are we challenged to be a sign of the „new humanity God is creating‟ 16 17