In this new episode, Geraldine speaks to Archbishop Tim Costelloe, president of the Australian Bishops Council and Bishop Shane Mackinlay, bishop of Sandhurst in Victoria and vice-president of the Plenary Council. Speaking during afternoon breaks of the bishops’ regular November meeting, they both reflect on the significant impact of Australia’s five year Plenary Council journey; on the eventful two public sessions, on how many Australians Catholics chose to contribute while also recognising how many in and out of the pews probably knew little about proceedings. And they have both met Pope Francis in these last couple of months and reported, personally, on the experience for them and others, of such ambitious gatherings. In Bishop Mackinlay’s words, “I told the Pope the Church in Australia was alive”.

For those in Sydney, Bishop Mackinlay is speaking in the afternoon at 1.30, Nov 13 at the Crypt at St Patrick’s in The Rocks, as a guest of Catalyst For Renewal. It should be a very good conversation and all are welcome.