Diocesan Pastoral CouncilThe Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is a canonical and consultative body established to assist the Bishop in his pastoral mission (Canon 511-514). The DPC is a structure of participation that investigates, reflects upon, and proposes practical recommendations concerning the pastoral life of the Diocese.
About
The Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is a canonical and consultative body established to assist the Bishop in his pastoral mission (Canon 511-514). The DPC is a structure of participation that investigates, reflects upon, and proposes practical recommendations concerning the pastoral life of the Diocese.
Under the Bishop’s authority, the DPC plays a central role in shaping the Diocesan Pastoral Plan (DPP). It facilitates diocesan-wide synodal discussion to ensure all voices are heard and considered, oversees the development and integrity of the DPP, and ensures its alignment with the Church’s mission and teachings. The Council also leads the organisation and execution of the Diocesan Synod, and ensures that annual Diocesan Assemblies are held in non-synod years, fostering ongoing engagement and discernment.
The DPC is composed of clergy, religious, and lay members, reflecting the diversity of the diocesan community. It includes ex-officio members such as the Vicar(s)-General and standing invitees including the Chief Governance Officer. The Council meets at least twice annually and is involved in at least two listening opportunities in parishes and the community. The DPC operates under the diocesan protocols.
To support its mandate, the DPC oversees standing committees such as the Synodal working party. This committee helps guide, facilitate and implement aspects of synodality across the Diocese.
By promoting synodality and collaborative discernment, the DPC ensures that pastoral initiatives are responsive, inclusive, and mission-driven. It serves as a vital link between the Bishop and the faithful, enabling shared responsibility in the life and direction of the Diocese.
Skills and experience
Each of us is gifted with varying talents, skills and experiences. In essence, we seek people who are passionate about supporting the future of our Church and building on our history to fulfill our mission – to serve all in the community so they may experience life to the full.
These differing perspectives and skills combine to complement others, challenge our thinking and build a truly synodal church.
The skills and backgrounds that might align with what we seek for this Council or Board are outlined below. Applicants do not have to fit any or all of those listed. We welcome expressions of interests from all those who feel called to contribute their insight, skills and experience.
The range of experience we need to support this Council may include people with backgrounds and experience in:
- Catholic mission and identity
- Church life
- Theology
- Pastoral Care
- And from the mission arms of the Diocese being education and welfare
Meeting Dates
*dates subject to change
Diocesan Pastoral Council
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Thursday 12 March 2026
4:00pm to 6:00pm
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Thursday 10 September 2026
4:00pm to 6:00pm
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Additional listening opportunities
Dates and times to be confirmed
Statutes and Protocols
Statutes and Protocols are ad experimentum during the first year, and may be updated from time to time during that year. The role of the relevant Council or Board will be to, at the end of the first year, consider the drafts and participate in updates to make the process fit for purpose.
