Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
The Church is moving towards irrelevance & very
creative thinking is required to restore its proper 3187
role in the world.
4621. Josephine Koch Wonderful approach. Hope many will sign
5333
4656. Rod Watson
Lyall Albert
Newsome
4526. John Hillis
4616.
I fully support the content of this open letter
4304
Supported in its totality
Why do the whinges of a few get such a great
4525. Pamela Lysaght
spiritual leader sacked?
4503. Eulalia Schoenhenzel These concerns are very real.
I am shocked at the change of some
wording in the Mass. It means the same as
before. This is a terrible waste of money
4502. Genevieve lehmann
which could have been used for the
starving people in Ethiopia and Somalia
etc.
4211
4499. Margaret Ryan
2902
4485.
Let's work for renewal together.
4352
5333
5333
Dorothy Owen
I agree wholeheartedly with the thoughts 4225
expressed
Patricia W
4452.
another worried and sad catholic
3355
Prendergast
4448. Harry Gibcus JP.
Will pass on this letter
3363
4445. Brendan Ryan
4443. Sister Moya Byrne
4442. Maria Nolan
4441. A Bradfield
4440. John Cormack
The Church's heirarchy needs to be
more accountable to the broader
church, and its operations need to be
far more collegial and transparent.
Moreover, too few of our Australian
bishops demonstrate courageous,
5067
imaginative and inspiring leadership.
In the main, they seem to set their
sights on simply being loyal, obedient
(and in some instances) competent
church bureaucrats.
I agree with the sentiments expressed
4031
in this letter.
I totally agree that the hierachy of the
church needs to listen - to walk the
4170
talk of Jesus and create changes that
are meaningful to his followers
4152
I fully concur with the sentiments
expressed in this letter. If the Catholic
5159
Church is to remain relevant in the
21st century, it must engage with, and
1
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
4439. TREVOR C NICHOLS
4438. Jane Cormack
4431. Anne de Arrieta
4430. margaret o'reilly
4425. Frank McFarlane
4424. Josephine Gordon
adapt to, the 21st century; otherwise it
is doomed to extinction.
It would help if we had more
emphasis on "Holiness Today: The
Formation of the Human Heart", the 5034
subject of +Vincent Nichols' 2011
Tablet lecture.
this letter outlines vital concerns of
many,many catholics completely lost 5159
in todays church.
I totally concur with this letter
Genuine consultation and change is
very necessary -
4213
5084
Rome must listen to the people if it
cares about the people. Does Rome
care for and love the people? Listen to 3677
the message! Respond positively to
the message!
I wholeheartedly support this petition 3677
4422. Dr Paul McQuillan
I live in hope that our Bishops can
overcome their personal fear of
4075
speaking out and present the views of
their lay people
4414. Judy Collins
disappointed with the church
4370
4403. Narelle Henry
a wonderful "shepherd"
4370
It is, in fact, the running of our Churches in a very
corporate and un-Christian manner that has caused me to
cease attending weekly mass after more than 30 years of
3056
doing so of my own accord. I have seen the work of
Christ, that is, reaching out to those less fortunate,
shunned in favour of temporary financial gain.
4367.
Karen
Woulfe
4350.
Denis
Much needed change
Moriarty
Marie Liseby May the Holy Spirit continue to guide the Church
Lapierre
and all its peoples
4292. Basil &
An absolute travesty of God's love that Bishop Bill
4293.
3032
3802
Basil
2
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Diane Nolan has been sacked
This petition brings to mind words I once heard in a
sermon by a (future) bishop on the first Sunday after
4291. Keith Carlon
2011
Easter: "Blessed are those who have seen (the
church) and still believe". Plus ça change ...
Bishop Morris only espoused what many clerics are
too frightened to come out and say. Until we have
people in Rome who don't have myopic vision and
whose brains are not on ice, then the attrition rate of
young people not wishing to participate in Church
affairs or leaving the Church, will only continue.
Bishop Morris is a good priest who was 'crucified'
because he put forward a few controversial questions
seeking his bretheren's opinion of which the Roman
Chris
Hierarchy obviously didn't agree. When it's all said
4289.
2153
Worthington and done there wouldn't be a shortage of priests in
Australia if many of the obese cardinals, archbishops
and priests comfortably enconsced in the Vatican
and who are so judgemental, were relegated to those
countries where there is a shortage, such as in the
Wilcannia Forbes Diocese in NSW Australia. Also,
instead of allowing Bishop Morris to retain his
dignity by referring to him as having 'resigned' his is
the only name I can see listed under 'Catholic
Hierarchy in Aust' as having been 'removed'.
Paul
4239. Joseph
Kennedy
Not only has the Church heirarchy lost me but also my
children to whom , in all honesty to my faith in Christ's
message, I am unable to defend the current reactionary
and regressive Church teachings. Catholic in name but 2350
no longer in nature. Two generations of lost intellectual
potential that this once mighty and Holy church can ill
afford to lose.
4234.
Frank J
God listens to His children - it doesn't appear that the
Valentine Pope is listening to his children.
4231.
Jake
Stewart
4350
I strrongly agree with this petition, im a youth minister
3056
for the Marist brothers Australia
I am an ordinary Catholic who is saddened that some of
the leaders of Christ's church seem to have learned
Maris
4227.
nothing since Luther and Galileo, but remain closeted 4350
Valentine
in their ivory towers of self-righteousness and
apparently unwilling to be subjected to reality checks.
Simone
Our prayers continue for an inclusive Church, which
4226.
3782
Boyd
acknowledges that "we" are all Church.
3
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
4192.
Richard
Hallett
4182. Tony Swanton
Our Church has a great tradition of adaptation to the
needs of people in a vast range of circumstances.
This adaptability, while retaining even stronger
communion with the See of Peter, is aptly reflected
in the documents of the Second Vatican Council.
3018
More recent efforts to promote a more distinctive
'Romanness' are jeopardising our Church's ability to
call itself genuinely 'catholic'. This is a great and
unnecessary tragedy and source of much sadness.
I particularly pray for courage for our Australian
Bishops to act for the Australian Church
4670
4180. Rodger Punch Good stuff.
3280
Totally disillusioned with the church I joined as an
adult 43 years ago. The treatment of Bishop Morris
4179. Trevor Bosel really brought it to a head. Please stop listening to a 4350
very tiny minority of people and open your ears to
the majority of the faithful.
To see priests addressed by the Pope as the inner
circle speaks of elitism and clerical narcissism 4178. Des Howard
5044
further reason for us for us to follow Christ
unencumbered by misguided authority.
At 84 years of age, I've never been more disgusted
with my church in my life. I go to mass almost daily
Trish
and on many teams in my congregation, but the
4177.
4350
Moloney
treatment of Bishop Bill Morris leaves me totally
disillusioned. Numbers have dropped to about half
in our church since this happened.
4173.
Fr John
Swann
Sauro
Antonelli
margaret
4170.
lloyd-jones
4171.
4168. Judi Bosel
4167.
Margaret
Hinchey
Nearly 50 years ago Vat II called for regular
Diocesan Synods - yet as far as I know only 5 Aus
bishops have responded to that call - hardly a
willingness to listen or consult..
5373
Yes, for the sake of my children and n my
grandchildren
3106
HEAR! HEAR!
4670
Totally disgusted by the treatment of Bishop Morris
and the lack of justice involved. Parishioners are
4350
walking away in droves.
"Let it be recognised that all the faithful, clerical
and lay, possess a lawful freedom of inquiry and of
thought and the freedom to express their minds
2117
humbly and courageously about those matters in
which they enjoy competence." Gaudium et Spes.
Vat. 11 no 62.
4
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Penelope
Carroll
I am very serious about and committed to the
renewal of the Church
4069
4159.
Doug
Marshall
Jesus did not preach bureaucracy he preached
universal love and care. A level of bureaucracy is
necessary but when it gets in the way of the basic
purpose of the organization it is time to re-assess
and return to the core ideals.
2040
4156.
David/Evelyn
Please hear our prayers!
Taylor
4165.
2034
Vatican 11 led the way for a reformed, healthy
4153. Mary Tierney Catholic community. Why has regression occurred? 4034
I pray for common sense to overcome dogma.
Catholics for Multiple voided spam now being reported to
4152.
3109
Renewal
petition site managers in USA.
4118. Marion Clegg
4117. Ray Johnson
4105.
Lesley
Wunnenberg
I agree with these sentiments
4165
Bishop Walker could use a lot of these comments
2102
on his recent decisions
You could have been reading my mind as well as
6239
saying what I've been saying for years.
Michael
Listen take note act
6280
Tonks
I agree with many of the concerns expressed in this letter
and have been pondering them for some time. I am
Mary Jo
4092.
pleased to add my name in the hope that our future as a 3875
DeBoer
church may more faithfully follow the teachings/example
of Jesus.
4093.
4085.
Mark
A very well crafted and spirited letter. I hope it may be
Hearnes listened to.
3165
4072.
M
Collins
2298
Please listen to you people
kathy
our church will survive
kuyken
More than happy to support the petition ... as a woman
who feels heartbroken and abused by the Church and
J
betrayed by its leaders, as they tear down the reforms of
4023.
O'Keefe Vatican II. Yet again I question why the institutional
church continues to abuse its members as they try to
follow Christ's teachings and example of a life lived by
4024.
3134
6010
5
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
LOVE, rather than by rigid rules, judgmentalism and
misogyny.
Margaret
Callinan
3996. John Dalgleish
4001.
May the Spirit be allowed to breathe. It's been far too long.
3000
Agree fully with this letter
3156
3991. Carolyn White
Heartily endorse every word.
The Catholic Chuch will continue to diminish until Chirst
3944. Tom Clark, SFO
again becomes the center of our faith.
3943. Judith M. Davis I heartily agree with every word of this letter!
3942. Robert Iacopetta Why do we make it hard for the Spirit to blow!
2065
3939. Frances Spora
Come Holy Spirit!
2830
3924. Celia Babbage
We need a collaborative church where everyone's voice is
listened to with respect
5575
43452
46526
2165
This letter says it all! I wholeheartedly endorse the
Mrs Margaretsentiments expressed in it and trust the powers-to-be take
2251
Anne Millington
due notice.
I strongly agree with this petition, and think it long over due.
The Church is losing the respect and allegiance of its grass
3916. Judy Sheppard
3221
roots supporters. Vatican II opened a Pandora's box which
we are not going to allow to be closed.
3917.
3910.
Wayne
Anderson
Elizabeth
3909.
Anderson
I strongly support this letter.
Currently the church hierachy is not respecting the richness
of contemporary Australian culture and spirituality. This
4031
treatment is similiar to the way traditional Aboriginal culture
and spirituality was treated by European settlement.
3906. Carmel Gordon ability to express concern essential
3872. Michael Healy accurate assessment of my feelings as well
3870. Maureen Slagter
3868. Kathryn Relf
Brother Paul
3867.
O'Keeffe
3866. Chris T Relf
4031
3630
3388
wholeheartedly agree with the sentiments. Thank God there
5223
are others who feel as I do
Let Australians be Australians not Romans
4350
full marks to you for putting this together. i agree 100\%
2165
Please listen
4350
3859. Denis Minogue Clerical abuse is not just sexual
3031
3858. Shane Kennedy
2042
3857. Denis Scanlan I hope the Bishops stand up for their Churches with the spirit 4053
6
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
of St Paul.
3843.
Joan
Hayes
3825.
Mary
This letter profoundly expresses my feelings, thoughts 328
Pendergast and concerns
0
3818.
Mary
Justice must be done
O'Sullivan
435
0
3807.
John &
Grace
Owens
208
5
3805.
3804.
Feeling of alienation within our Church
Totally agree
487
0
My life as a Catholic slips away a little more every
time I hear of abuse, denial, immense poverty in
Carmel
338
Catholic countries, gender exclusiveness and over it
Healy
8
all the Vatican facade of smiles and blessings in Gods
name. Tears come as reality of faith lost hits.
346
Joe Milesi Excellent letter. I totally agree with its contents.
1
Clement
Rogers
This petition is most welcome and overdue
3787.
Cheryl
Hansen
I am facing huge anxiety with not wanting to go to
mass any more with the new responses and changes
that do not reflect our faith and our journey within our
faith. I beleive Jesus to be all loving , forgiving and a 280
compassionate God. This is not my faith and I find
0
myself in tears each mass and not saying the responses
and changes as I do not believe they are either relevant
or prayerful.
3785.
Leo
Neville
Grace
Action is long overdue but will probably fall on deaf
ears
3774.
It saddens me to see the shrinking numbers attending
masses with churches less than 1/2 full and ageing
congregations who are constantly concerned about the
Margaret state of our Parishes and the growing workload of our 314
Kneebone aging priests. It seems that Vatican 2 is now being
9
ignored and there is a re-clericalisation of the Church.
People of good will are now having no real input into
the running of the church with Parish councils being
3802.
313
3
406
5
7
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
disbanded in some cases. The clergy seems fearful of
the people who only want to help relieve them of
some of the more mundane aspects of their huge
workload and to provide high levels of expertise in
specific areas. This then allows the priests to focus
their energies on pastoral care and counselling that is
desperately needed.
3762.
3761.
Caileigh
Aquilina
Pauline
Aquilina
3734. Geoff Jarrett
333
7
I have seen more discrimination in our Church than in 333
other places.
7
The petition urges our leaders to implement their
own policies of collegiality and subsidiarity. This
would allow the world-wide Church to be one
body, but rejoice in the flowering of its many
parts. I encourage the Australian Bishops to
5158
continue to develop their leadership roles in the
Spirit of Vatican 2, and will pray that we all
undertake this difficult but joyful journey
together..
Please Listen to us
3701. John Miller
No longer are we the sheep following the
shepherd in these man made changes .Money
spent on this could have been better spent in
addressing the other issues facing the Church at
present.
3697. Clare Milesi
With unjust decisions like the dismissal of
Bishop Morris and poor leadership which puts
the institution before all else, the church
hierarchy has lost all credibility with the majority 3461
of Catholics. These men need to grow up, listen
to the voice of the people, then engage in some
real dialogue.
3694. Vincent Boseley
need more help
5304
3693. Glenys Boseley
well said
5304
3684. Tony Foran
The silent majority need to express their feelings
about the way the hierarchy has disregarded their 4051
contributions.
3680. Ron Natoli
I agree with the sentiments expressed
Rosemary and Charles
3678.
Kretschmer
We feel very strongly about the bad decisions
being made by the hierarchy and want to ask: Is 4210
this how Jesus would want his people led" buildings and rules are not the Church - caring,
3806
2046
8
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
loving and community are what the People
believe is the Way. Leaders come and go but we,
the people, continue doing what Jesus asked of
us. Let's get back to what matters.
3662. Marie Freyne
The arbitrary and unloving removal of Bishop
Morris is especially reprehensible
2022
3634. Eric Lindbloom
great to sign this and support it as well
6054
3633. EUGENE AHERN
Dear Pope Benedict and his Fellow Bishops in
Australia,,
3107
3632. Elizabeth Platt
Totally agree
4127
3607. Carmel Cowan
There is a malaise in the Australian Church - a
feeling among many priests and lay people that
we are no longer listened to; that the authority of
the bishops has been neutralised which has
deeply affected their ability to respond pastorally
to their people; and finally that decisions and
3796
statements are made on Church matters by
people who are unaware or ill-informed of the
true nature of the Australian Church. We long for
openness and renewal, for recognition of our
distinct Australian culture and for the Vatican to
listen once again to the Church at the grassroots.
3582. Peter Cowan
By its current actions and directives the Catholic
Church seems to be closing in on itself rather
than listening to the voice of the Spirit which
opens us up to God's grace with all its
3796
possibilities. The charisms and gifts of men and
women alike within the church ought to be fully
recognised and called upon for Jesus' mission in
today's world.
3578. Bernard Dobson
I agree with the comments in the letter and
would add that I encourage the clergy to engage
with our youth, including those who are not
attending church, by frequently visiting our
3777
Catholic schools where the students are
comfortable in praying for others and where they
do actively participate in social justice activities
3577. Paul O'Shea
It gets harder to remain within the Church
because of the hurt and harm caused by those
called to be shepherds. The treatment of Bishop 2000
Bill Morris was disgraceful. Cardinal Law gets a
palazzo in Rome; Bill Morris gets the sack.
9
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3576. Janet Dolan
I send this wholeheartedly but sadly with little
hope that the church in Rome will give it much
attention. When will our Australian Bishops
stand up for us?
3575. Monica van Raay
The Catholic Church desperately needs a
massive overhaul, to bring it up to date, so many
people I know, including myself, are fed up with 3810
the current clerical church that has a hierarchy
that is not listening.
3562. Bernadette Haagen
Please listen to the voices of the people
3559. Peter Kiernan
This request is urgent and vital and must be dealt
3144
with promptly and respectfully.
3537.
Georgina Margaret
Mary Dick
2484
3131
I totally support the Open Letter
4521
3536. Justin Griffin
May the deaf hear and the blind see
3145
3528. Kathryn McMahon
What would Jesus say if he were alive today?
3132
3524. allan moore
I fully agree with this petition
4815
3523. Carolyn Doherty
Please let us open our hearts and minds to each
other, as beings made in the image of God and
work together to give our Church the life it
deserves.
4119
3514. Judy McCashin
Thank you for organising this petition and I pray
that it may be heard and responded to for the
NZ 8022
good of the Church.
3496. Ron Reynolds
I support this petition with a prayer that wisdom
2038
will prevail
3495. Julie Garrard
This petition embodies my sentiments!
3491. Majella Hill
I am devastated at what appears to be the rolling
2045
back of Vatican 11
3489. Becky Knell
We are all equal
3486. Christine McGrath
I whole heartily agree with all that has been said
in this petition. The Church has lost it's way and 4055
is alienating itself and it's followers.
3484. jenny carter
hope for action
2049
4209
7448
10
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3477. Joan Wilkinson
The future of Christianity is at risk. We cannot
allow this to be hijacked by the very human
problem of elderly men appointing those with
whom they are most comfortable, to be
responsible for the future of the church. The
Church is for all - and must represent all races,
all genders, all ages, and a mix of theological
viewpoints.
3127
3475. Paul McGrath
I agree and am particularly concerned at the
summary removal of Bishop Morris and the
apparent fruitless changes to liturgy, I wonder
what the Lord would say to this bureaucracy if
he were at the table??
4055
3474. Maggie Loveland
Please, listen to the children of Christ Jesus.
Allow priests to marry. Without having a wife
and children of their own, how can they truly
assist families without drawing of lifes
experiences itself.
3429
3473. HELEN FULTON
Agree with all sentiments expressed in this letter. 3124
3472. Michael Kalinowski
Wholeheartedly agree
4352
3470. Eric Blacklock
Lets get back to basics and grass roots
4818
3436. Katherine Gennrich
well said and I agree
53092
3435. Jim Gennrich
Well crafted letter. Let’s work towards
inclusively in the Catholic faith. I think Jesus
would approve.
53092
3422. Janice Langdon
I turned away from the church because of a
narrow minded priest's actions with my sick
child.
4660
3421. Adrian Kuyken
Not all on the Titanic were lost "OUR CHURCH
3134
WILL SURVIVE" God Willing!!!
3420. Peter Sproule-Carroll
The Church I knew has lost it's way.
3925
3417. edward heffernan
I agree wholeheartedly, we have lost too many
good lay people and clergy
3220
3416. Gerard Monro
There can be no light to guide us when it is
shrouded by fear
3280
3411. doreen withers
Oh yes! yes yes
2395
11
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3409. CATRIONA DEVLIN
I fully support this letter
3406. Carmel Nash
I support this letter as a true way forward for our
4170
church
Rev. Alice Iaquinta,
3403. Roman Catholic
Womenpriests
Bravo! The Church is speaking and the hierarchy
53090
need to listen.
3399. Robyn Blunt
I fully support this stance.
2800
3394. Joanna Healy
I support this petition wholeheartedly
2820
3393. Robyn McNamara
I fully support this petition
2804
totally agree
5045
3381. Raymond Russo
The Spirit is moving
3910
3371. eusebia dalima
Congratulations! Living in Eastern Europe, I
really feel the discrimination by the Church
towards men and women in doing liturgical
service, and....surely as happen in many other
Church (Catholic) communities. The Church
here is very "top-down".
080678
3364. Jill Lethlean
Transparency is the important issue and
protection of members from abuse.
3101
3361. Betty Sheridan
I thoroughly agree
4350
3360. Peter Sheridan
All too true
4350
3357. Beatrice Moore
100 years old, and cannot think when I have
been more disillusioned!
4350
3356. Carol Ryall
Said far better than I could
4350
3355. Allen H Ryall
These are my personal thoughts, not merely
'following the crowd'.
4350
3355. Allen H Ryall
These are my personal thoughts, not merely
'following the crowd'.
4350
3348. Anthony Reid
renewal must come
2601
3347. Fr. Peter Toohey
I wholeheartedly endorse this petition
6101
3392.
Peter & Pam
Sandercock
3344. chris williams
3144
3152
12
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3335. Marita McInerney
Support this petition wholeheartedly. Let us as
Catholics really follow the law of Christ and
focus on what really matters, the four principles
2048
of the Church's Social Doctrine: The Dignity of
the Human Person, The Common Good,
Subsidiarity & Solidarity.
3334. Christine Haddrick
a sincere petition
3551
3332. Marian Harriss
there has to be change
2150
3327. David Wilkins
Congratulations.
2262
Every time I read a Vatican II document, I am
excited by the revelation described. But then I
3326. Michael J. O'Donoghue am saddened by the realisation that this was the
dream, the ideal. I still fervently hope that
Christ's Church could rebirth the dream.
5043
3323. David Shinnick
A well-crafted letter. Two thoughts: 1) a
significant obstacle to real change is the current
mindset of so many of the Church's leadership.
2) This is part of a groundswell for Vatican III - 5042
a pity it couldn't have been in 2012, the 50th
anniversary of Vatican II [although perhaps
2015!].
3322. Anne Mary Scott
I am in full agreement with all the points of this
WA 6076
petition.
3317. Clare Frances O'Leary
I totally agree with these sentiments and the
actions they call forth.
3316. Paul Jensen
I was a Uniting Church clergy and resigned to
take up Catholicism due to theological and
epistemological concerns with Protestantism.
While I will continue to remain deeply
committed to Catholic Christianity the perceived 4350
lack of procedural justice in relation to matters of
abuse, poor process, the removal of Bishop Bill
and the apparent shutting down of dialogue hurt
the Church and damage it's evangelical witness
3307. Catherine Tesoriero
We need to concentrate of Christianity and love
2093
for each other
3293. Ray Stinson
changes are needed for the Church to survive
3037
3289. Terrance H nanscawen
Where in Rome among the grandeur, pomp &
ceremony is the Spirit of Christ
3564
6054
13
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3286. Rosemary Ryan
The strength of the church in Australia was in the
fact that it represented the middle ground.
However now it is becoming increasingly
conservative as many people from the left and
2064
middle become disheartened with an
organisation that puts process and structures
above people.
3285. Margaret
I am an ex Catholic who always went to mass
but am heartily tired of the way we are treated by
the Church hierarchy. Until the requirements are
met that are in the petition, and we are allowed to 4109
celebrate Eucharist in a way that is life
enhancing for the participants, I do not plan to go
back to the church.
3275. Kris Sugden
perfectly reflects how we feel
3274. Janet Depiazzi
My sentiments exactly. The church is sadly
becoming increasingly irrelevant in the lives of
many Catholics, especially our youth, and church 6280
leadership seems to have lost its way. Whatever
happened to the spirit of Vatican II?
3263. Judith Gaffney
Be open to the Holy Spirit, we are all called to be
4019
His children
3251. Robin Sugden
Totally agree with every statement made in the
letter to our Bishops and Pope.
3246. Bernadette Vear
It is heartening to know there are others who also
feel disillusioned with our leaders. This letter
3138
says how I feel
3240. Carmel Sheehan
Pope Benedict. You need to engage with us the
women of the Church. At present you’re
ignoring us and Jesus never did that. If you are
not up to the job I understand so please make
way for someone who is.
4120
3231. Kathryn Houston
I support this petition with my whole heart!
4870
3214. Margaret Carman
Well written & expresses my sentiments
thoroughly.
3136
3209. Antony Rietmeyer
I was bought up and educated as a catholic but I
want a more alive church so I now attend a
3154
Christian church that brings me closer to God
3208. Barbara Anne Gillis
At last, a move to go forward as a
2019
2034
2076
14
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Catholic/Christian
3207. mary maisie
St
A church that follows Christs teaching and not so
Josephs
controlling
Boronia
3205. Patrick Roche
I totally concur.
2618
3200. Margaret Barrachina
We look forward to a blessed, not broken,
Church, that can include, inspire and heal
5041
3197. Peter Coffey
Youth can’t relate to the church now. Unless
they become more involved there wont be a
church
3134
3194. Rosemary Kopli
Needs urgent attention
5051
3191. Suzanne Thompson
I wholeheartedly support this letter
3450
3186. Bernice K. Rubinelli
I wholeheartedly endorse the content of the
attached letter.
63105
3185. Frank Davey
I couldn't agree more. There is absolutely no
connection between the Australian psyche and,
say, the Italian psyche. Without any facts, I could
say that the Church's Roman hierarchy haven't a
single, solitary clue as to how the Australian
psyche operates. Could someone please tell me
as to the real reason the death of Pope John Paul
was never properly investigated and/or,
revealed? What a different Church we would
have. How is it that it took a century or more to
canonise an obvious saint, Mary MacKillop yet 2549
they're falling over themselves to canonise a yet
to be proven Pope John Paul 2, who has a
questionable background concerning the
treatment of child abuse, not to mention our
aforementioned Pope John Paul. Just a thought!
Guitar music is the modern style. Gregorian
chants may be great for monasteries. Let's face it,
most of the everyday people are flat out singing a
note, but are competent enough singing to music
that is adjusted to their capabilities.
3182. Greg Slattery
Shameful treatment of Bishop Morris after such
5480
a wonderful life of service
3181. ROSE FIGTREE
A sacred time for us all in light of the economic
2120
and political climate.
15
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3177. Michael Bunter
eyes and ears here please !!
3167
3173. Damian B Goss
I fully support the content and intent of this
petition. It is time that we adherents to the
catholic faith are treated as intelligent and
competent contributors to the continuous
development and wellbeing of the church.
3280
3171. Lenore Ryan
I whole hearted believe in the words of this open
4060
letter
3170. barbara alekna
the letter says it all for all of us!
2120
3169. Paul Michael Cahill
This Open Letter is a welcome initiative. The
issues outlined there in are ones whose
recognition by the church is long overdue. The
Church hierarchy needs to urgently and
realistically address all these matters.
2263
As two committed senior Catholic lay persons
we are very pleased to have this opportunity to
endorse this timely open letter. We urge the Pope
and his Bishops to seriously listen to, consider
3164. Peter and Kaye Donnan and respond to the signs, needs and concerns of 2577
our times reflected in the "modis operandi" of
today's Catholic Church. Surely an appropriate
starting point could be to revisit and more
completely embrace the promise of Vatican 11.
3161. terry nugent
should be presented to all Catholics
bobby
3160. JOAN PAVITT
I am deeply concerned at the direction away
from the teachings of Vatican 11 that the church 2074
is taking.
3159. June Moschner
I would like to see women have a much stronger
2219
voice in the Church
3156. Graeme Vear
As baptised Catholics, we the people are the
church. Like many others, I am presently
disillusioned with the current priorities and
inadequate leadership from our hierarchy.
3132
3155. Rex Balthazaar
please treat as sincere and urgent !
2261
3153. Johanna de Groot
I strongly agree with all that is said in this letter. 2226
3152. Ann McColl
very true
3145. Kieran O'Rourke
Profound, sincere reform needs to be undertaken 4069
2807
16
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
to rebuild the Church.
3141. Don Vinciullo
3140.
Elizabeth and Terry
O'Brien
Spot on
6066
We are very happy to sign this letter, something
3133
has to be done and this letter says it all.
As a victim of childhood sexual abuse, and as a
victim of systemic abuse when I was working as
an REC in Catholic education in Australia, I
have a somewhat less-than-objective perspective
on this matter. There are many God-loving and
God-fearing members of the Catholic church in
Australia - but they feel increasingly alienated by
the intransigence of the INSTITUTIONAL RCC
and its 'power elites' (clergy and laity). The RCC
needs to be much more honest and transparent on
critical social justice issues (i.e. child abuse) and
3137. Robert Kellock MACE
2648
on dogmatic issues (i.e. celibacy in the
priesthood). Since I ceased attending Mass, and
am no longer working in Catholic education, I
have felt like a 'lost sheep' to this day. My
memories of my own abuse will never leave
me........and my memories of being 'abandoned'
by Catholic education (when I tried to expose a
now convicted paedophile teacher) leave me
with frequent nightmares to endure. Jesus
reminded us that the Way to the Kingdom
requires us to have hearts like children !
3135. Ern Azzopardi
Vatican III is needed: these are universal church
6210
concerns.
3131. Liam Mallon
Female priests and priests being able to marry is
6057
an absolute must for the survival of the church
3129. sue devitt
Harden not your hearts. Listen to Her voice.
3125. James Depiazzi
My wife and I really appreciate the opportunity
to express our feelings in this forum. Thank you
to Peter J Johnstone for so clearly articulating
what is being said by so many of the remaining
6280
faithful. It is encouraging to know that so many
others share our concerns and want to see
meaningful dialogue and change. May the Holy
Spirit be active in the church again!
3116. Sarah Payne
I would very much hope that the Papacy starts
looking more at what Jesus taught - isn't that
what Catholics should believe?
4810
6018
17
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
3113. Helen Walker
Please listen with your hearts to the cries of your
2034
parishioners.
3095. Josephine Fay
let's hope for an open, transparent and
accountable society that is wholly inclusive
3153
3094. Fr. Gerald Tan
I could not agree more. My exact sentiments.
And I hope something will happen
6210
3093. mary broadley
Thank You for the opportunity to be a signatory
2766
to this Open Letter
3092. Sandra O'Brien
The Church is the People, Please Listen to them. 2830
3091. Maria Kearney
4152
3090. Peter Lang
3079.
Maurice & Pauline
Walsh
3073. Doris Cahill
Let the Holy Spirit guide my thoughts. First
please read from The Wisdom of Sirach Ch 1 24
: 28 Now John 21 : 18 for it may be here that the
church founded by Christ and given to the
stewardship of Peter was warned, not of Peters
death, as has been suggested, but the threat that
could befall the church. Who the “other” referred
to in this part of scripture is, one can only
cogitate. BUT He concluded His warning with,
“FOLLOW ME!” Is the church today, and for
that matter, in the time since those words were 5211
spoken, adhering to that warning. Jesus born in a
stable to become our King. He had no palace nor
earthly accoutrements, he would never have
desired that flamboyant display which you and
your fellow bishops, or “princes” as you term
yourselves, display. All He asks is for all, you
included, to love each other in a simple manner,
the manner of Christ. Shepherds live simply and
tend their flock with love, never, never in a harsh
overbearing manner.
If the Catholic church is to be relevant it must
listen to it people and not just be ruled by those
in the clergy who have lost contact with the
people. Change is desperately needed
2794
I, like many adult Catholics of my era, was
brought up a very strict Catholic. I don't attend
Mass or other services anymore as I can't accept
2263
the inequality in the church and the church's
attitude towards females. Women are treated as
second class citizens, to be seen but not heard.
Mothers are usually the ones to take their
18
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
children to church and follow up with
preparations for the sacraments, therefore I feel
that women should have more say at least in the
local parish.
3070. Helen Mullins
worried about a church I love
3069. Carmelo Sciberras
Consultation should also take place before a
bishop makes decisions for his diocese. A synod
2259
needs to reflect the people's wishes and not only
the bishop's secretive plans
Anthony ( Tony )
3068.
Harkin
Have given up on you - particularly on your
inability to compromise and to discuss (which at 2047
times means listening ).
3064. Faye Anderson
I totally endorse the sentiments in this document.
2024
Congratulations.
3062. Maureen Mullins
I support this whole heartedly
3555
3060. Luke Christiansen
Looking forward to the day when there is some
congruence between the behavior of the
hierarchy and the gospel of Jesus.
81654
3057. ANNIETA ANTHONY
This Open Letter expresses the dismay and
dispair that I feel, particularly as a woman
3937
3055.
CATHERINE
MAHEDY
2650
Very important Letter well done Renewal Group. 2660
3054. Julie Cogley
This letter is long overdue. congratulations to
those who have had the intestinal fortitude to
discuss the matters then writre the letter.
3053. Denise
Absolutely agree with the contents of this open
letter, and implore the powers that be that they
take this seriously...it is heartbreaking to observe 3134
how irrelevant the Catholic Church is to our
children & their generation.
3051. CW Quin
The letter reflects my views and virtually all the
6160
Catholics I know.
3050.
Tom and Margaret
Nolan
3046. Jennie Mardel
2066
Bishop Morris is a true shepherd, so badly
needed by a church that is ruled by men who
have no idea of the needs of our diocese.
4350
In the hope that the issues raised will be
positively acted upon so that we may again feel
2906
19
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
at home in the church.
3045. Bill Fox
How can the church be authentic while it
continues to pretend that half the human race
doesn't exist? Why did we have to undermine
Vat II Council?
3135
3044. Judy Edmiston
I strongly concur with the contents of the letter
2110
3043. Judith Sheehan
I know Bishop Morris to be a true shepherd and
champion of the poor, vulnerable and
marginalised. In other words, eminently eligible
to meeting the vital Christian criteria of his
4350
canonical duties, which he carries out to the
inspiration of his flock. That is the only proof
you need. All the other evidence is hearsay and
non-credible evidence.
3040. Elizabeth Back
I fully support the petition.
3034. Simonette Bunder
Will the ordained clergy ever get any sense into
2500
their heads?
3032. Jill Rietmeyer
Wonderful to be part of a dialogue that will
hopefully bring about change
3154
3030. THOMAS ANTHONY
sincerely desiring more obviously relevant
contemporary interpretation
3937
3029. Lorraine Fraser
The Church needs to reach out to those who have
been hurt by the church, alienated from their
community and are searching for a spiritual
2577
dimension in their life and a community to feel
valued and welcome in.
3023. James Hansen
When will you understand the problems the
Church faces
3021. peter fenton
It may be a cliché but it is nevertheless true to
say that an original authority of love has become
2151
a love of authority. Rome needs to change its
mindset.
3019. Ann Eskens
I willingly endorse the sentiments expressed in
this petition
3018. John Casey
a synod might succeed if free, constructive and
respectful debate is allowed with expectation of
being heard. It is now time to build an agenda of 2287
topics. If synod fails, councils of laity are plan B.
It is time to discuss `what it means to be church
5076
3187
2065
20
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
at this time and this place` - Australia not
Europe.
3014. Terry Woods
Excellent and to the point
4350
3013. rita baker
I am pleased that someone is doing something
about the dismissal of the Bishop it is time that
Rome listened to the faithful.
2800
3011. JOHN MURPHY
The Pope and the Catholic hierarchy are no
longer representative of the many faithful
Catholics who love their Church so strongly.
Vatican 11 offered the hope of returning the
3088
Church to the people. How did those in authority
let it all go so wrong? What a sorry mess we are
in now.
3007. Christine Slattery
As a cradle Catholic, I find I am barely hanging
on to my faith, because the church has strayed so
far from Jesus' message of universal love and
3500
inclusiveness, I no longer take a part in the RCIA
program. Who would want to become a Catholic
now?
3006. Brother Peter Ryan
in solidarity
3005. Michaell Bartlett
30 years ago, I left the priesthood after 20 years
of service, disillusioned, disappointed and
disempowered because of just such issues, which
the Pope, the Vatican and the bishops still today 2028
refuse to openly discuss, let alone satisfactorily
address. I thoroughly support the statements and
suggestions in this petition.
3001. Douglas Birrell
If a strong Australian Catholic Church is to be
maintained, changes must be made to church law
to give greater transparency and communication
with the lay congregation. This is especially
critical to allow better servicing of remote and
rural areas. The Vatican needs to remember that
Australia is a vast continent with a far flung
4350
population, and this means that what may work
in small European countries does not work here.
The authorities need to be aware that there are
fewer young people practicing our religion and it
seems highly probable that Australian
Catholicism will cease to exist in the not too
distant future.
3000. Norbert & Hildegard
we totally endorse and support the concerns
2170
4350
21
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Greulich
expressed and hope that the bishops will listen to
the Body of Christ
2999. Dorothy Hewitt
My husband and I strongly support the petition.
4805
2993. Sue Carey
TIME FOR FORWARD RENEWAL
0629
2986. James Carty SM
I endorse the letter without reserve.
2066
2982. Carmel & Kevin Walker excellent letter, completely agree
2319
2980. Allan Jackson
2913
2977.
JAMES FINBARR
WALSH
It is probably already too late.
The Church is in the doldrums and must move
forward with the Spirit of Vatican 11. Lots of
2036
Catholics are disillusioned and are crying out for
good leadership.
2976. Mary and Paul Wickins Glad to endorse this
5067
Even though having ministered for 10 years as a
religious sister, I am now one of the deeply
MAUREEN THERESE
disaffected ex members of the institutional
2974.
2036
WALSH
church. I still regard myself as one committed to
the essence of "The Jesus Story".
2970. Barbara Mondon
I pray for unity in the Catholic Church and with
3194
all God's People
2969. JACINTA SIMCOX
Time to really act justly, be humble and love
others as Jesus practised. Adult faith is not built
on 5 year olds being trained in ridiculous
pressure as to how to act before even entering the
3109
church pew. Sad that some priests falsely believe
this is necessary and in any way important to
following Christ. Church is community but in
2011 a authoritarian, bully boys club.
2962. rita hayes
How many more backward steps are we asked to
3350
take?
2959. Joan Hindle
I heartily endorse the contents of this letter.
3880
2955. Andrew Lennon
I Agree with the content and would given Fr
Kennedy (formerly Sth Bne parish) a strong
mention.
4506
2951. David Grigg
Still have no idea of what the changes to the
mass are as we have not been informed as yet also am absolutely appalled at the Church's
response world wide to the sexual abuse
3390
22
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
scandals.
2949. Jim Schliebs
Agree entirely with letter-long overdue. If the
amount of time & resources that have seemingly
been expended on changing words in liturgy
were devoted to more important matters
confronting the Church we would all be better
2360
off. It is no wonder that the younger generation
do not connect any more with the Church-no
doubt the scandals in the church have a lot to do
with this-it is time to make changes & to start
connecting with the people..
2948. Virginia Boweer
a concerned and loyal member of the Catholic
Faith
2594
2945. Ann Rumble
The new wording for the Glory to God, in my
view is appalling. Surely as a Christian people
we should be calling on God for peace for all
people, not just the "people of goodwill".
2577
2942. maureen robinson
I find the church is still full of clericalism,
authoritarianism and a harking back to the 1950's
ne299qq
is holding the church back from becoming a
church for the 21st century
2941. David Bennett
While I agree with these sentiments I also would
like the Catholic Church to acknowledge that it
is only one of many hundreds of belief systems 5087
in the world, all of which have the same
legitimacy.
2939. The Oh Family
As an old Catholic family who love the Catholic
faith, we have been utterly disappointed with the
behaviour of the current church hierarchy that is
so far removed from the message of the Gospel,
the message of justice, compassion,
inclusiveness and service; the current
institutional church function more like an empire
with an Emperor so unlike the Jesus of Nazareth.
The institutional church makes Jesus/God looks 2000
like a European, that only speaks Latin and
completely disconnected from anything that is
not self-absorbed, Ultra-Conservative, Eurocentric, Patriarchal and Capitalistic. If God has
an image, that image is one that is highly
problematic if it is exemplified in the form of the
Institutional Hierarchical Catholic Church. We
concur with the sentiments of this letter.
23
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2938. Patricia Kenny
wholehearted support for a more open approach
3672
to opinions of the laity
2936. GloriaBaldwin
very disillusioned with our Church hierarchy
2360
2934. Josie Gregory
We need a people’s church. Not one driven by
the hierarchy; the women especially need
acceptance as equals.
3352
God's wisdom and love resides in each one.
Thank you for listening.
2153
2922. Trish and Joe Blacker
we firmly agree
2615
2918. david & marie wilde
We wish more publicity was given to this
petition as we have heard nothing about it in our 2263
parish
2915. Allan Corcoran
So sad that we People of God have come to
something so necessary as this petition.
2913. Bernadette Rutyna
We have to change how we do things now - it is
likely that if we don't, many people will continue
4068
to leave the church. What is the new way
forward we are creating?
2911. John Keneally
I feel the church is at a point at which the
Faithful have lost confidence in the hierarchy
and feel their faith experience is totally ignored
or, worse, dismissed.
2111
2907. Anne McEvoy
my heartfelt opinion is echoed in this letter.
5234
2900. Dianne McGauran
Please accept this petition as an act of faith
3806
2894. John Fanton
The retreat from the decisions of the Second
Vatican Council is huge leap backwards,
alienating and highly regrettable. My parents,
both 80 years plus, still practice but admit they
would not if of a younger generation. My
children are in a Catholic school. Sadly I can
only but wonder what meaning their faith will
have for them if the current course prevails.
4020
2892. Lisa Menahem
time for change, if you want next generation to
stay involved with the church!
3153
2891. Martin Menahem
Need to allow for Married Priests and Women in
3153
the Church
2932.
Maria Elena Villacorta
Cortez
3087
24
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2886. Paul O'Dwyer
Please do not dismiss this petition as radical and
marginal - it is one of an authentic voices of the 3146
church
2883. fiona clarke
The Catholic Church has to change with this
generation otherwise it will be left behind.
3121
2882. alice clarke
I agree with this letter
3143
2881. Mary Maxwell
change for survival
3153
2877. Carmel Glover
Developments in the Church over recent years
have made me ashamed to be a Catholic.
4019
Catholicism today is, in my opinion, at odds with
the teachings of Christ.
2876. Susan Smith
Please listen to the People of God- the Church
and dialogue
2875. Judith-Ann Sjostedt
The strong winds fanned by The Holy Spirit are
blowing through our church. I fully endorse the 2615
sentiments expressed in this letter.
2871. Moya Sertori
Act before too late, listen to the people
2650
2870. peter howes
totally agree
5062
2866. Adrian Gilchrist
Let us live - in the Church - the same kind of life
2614
of love and service that Jesus lived.
2859. Liz Moriarty
I have worked for many years with victims of
child sexual abuse and some of these victims
abuse was perpetrated by Catholic Church clergy
and religious. The response from the Catholic
Church, whilst attempts are being made to 'care'
for the victims and their families, the responses
fall far short of providing appropriate 'care'. The 5290
responses are couched in litigation fear and
Catholic Church Insurance issues and not
adequately focused on the needs of the victims
and their families. It is time that the church
understood its role and its responsibilities here in
respect to victims.
2858. Donna Bowker
wholeheartedly agree
3155
2851. Julie Kaminickas
Church must move with the times
6011
2850. Lorraine Brosnan
Recent processes leave many of us feeling
alienated from a once vibrant church.
4053
4053
25
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2849. Brendan Case
I fully support this letter.
3122
2844. liana bosco
Thankyou Catholic Bishops of Australia - you
5082
have acknowledged/ acted upon a very real need
2843. Richard Noone
I agree wholeheartedly with the open letter.
5158
2839. Kathleen A Harman
Regular mass attendee
3280
2838. helen parker
Jesus not Pharisees
0870
2836. BRIAN WORCESTER
Women should not be excluded and treated as
second class citizens
3151
2822. Helen Vickers
As a catholic teetering on leaving due to many of
NSW
the issues outlined in the letter I implore you to
2519
listen and act.
2817. Paul O'Sullivan
Strongly support sentiments in open letter.
2816. Patricia A M Sullivan
After Vatican II there was a great call for us to
be more truly followers of Christ in compassion,
justice and love. I think that conformity to
4030
minute and pre-Vatican II practices are now
choking efforts to spread the Reign of God. This
saddens me greatly.
2813. Jane Gaynor
I strongly endorse and support the views
expressed in this letter. May this manifest the
change that is so necessary and vital for our
Church
5045
2807. Margaret McAllan
It's now or never
2259
2805. Bruce McAllan
It's time
2259
2804. Margot Old
The Church needs to listen to the voices of the
whole congregation and not just a vocal few.
4740
2802. Joan Murphy
The 'handful of objectors' are shouting - enough!
Bring transparent process into the Church we
4051
love.
2800. George Rizzi
100\% correct
3085
2795. Brenda Low
we are into the second generation of non
practicing Catholics and diminishing there is
great cause for concern
6163
2789. Martin Dixon
Pope Bendict (L'Osservatore Romano 3 June
2009) said: "On the one hand there is still a
3186
4069
26
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
tendency to identify the Church unilaterally with
the hierarchy, forgetting the common
responsibility, the common mission of the People
of God, which, in Christ we all share"
2788. Loretta Hodshon
2902
2787. Maureen Duffey
2794
2786. Colin Seaborn
I normally do not sign petitions but felt that this
2519
letter reflected the concerns I have.
2782. Joanne Bonavia
I pray these concerns will be considered with an
3111
open mind and acted upon.
2777. Bruce Gillespie
My sentiments precisely
4670
2776. terry Folan
Its all very sad.
2131
2770. Frank Rhodes
I am in full agreement
3189
2769. Gerard Nolan
It saddens me the way the Church is proceeding
2785
in the twenty first century
Marie RichardsCochrane
Holy Father, please, please, please listen to this
prayerful plea. At present I am one of the
marginalised Catholics due to circumstance.
However I love the Church and never miss my 2650
Sunday Mass. At present as I type this , I have
tears rolling down my face it is so painful for me
to acknowledge I am on the edge.
2762. Margaret Collis
I feel that the Church authorities in Rome have
no conception of the vastness of our Country
areas and therefore do not realize the difficulties 4017
we have with a shortage of Ordained Priests to
celebrate Eucharist on a regular basis.
2760. john roche
I had already written to my local Bishop, Peter
Ingham
2756. Kevin Haydon
The fact that the bishop of Canberra/Goulburn
has not allowed the petition to be made available 2800
should support this petition.
2754. Justin Colley
Take a lesson from nature; that which doesn't
adapt, doesn't survive!
3797
2752. Loreto Hewitt
I despair for my church
5351
2767.
2577
27
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2750. Premila Coelho
In total agreement with this letter and about time
we Catholics speak up!! This is the 21st Century 3124
and not 100 AD !!!
2748. Corry Wilson
The church is US the people on the ground - not
the Vatican. 90,000 SCCs in East Africa - they 3802
know how to make local church relevant.
2741. Richard Wright
Issues exist that need to be addressed. On this
basis I signed the petition.
2740. Miriam Bennett
Agree one hundred percent - am very concerned
2084
about my church1
2735. Gavin Greenwood
I wholeheartedly agree. This man has been dealt
3083
a great injustice!
2734. Mary Barbuto
May all be united in living the gospel values with
3101
personal integrity and mutual respect.
2733. Kathleen J.Roche
All the issues which have been included in this
petition, have been under constant discussion
within our Parish People. We are told that 'we
are the Church' but feel their voice is not heard.
Our people are longing to be truly a church of
Vatican 11. The grass roots of our people are
clinging to their Faith in God, whilst longing to
drag this current heirarchy into the real spirit of
Vatican 11, to have them catch up with the
people, who have changed their lives and
thinking to embrace these values.
2577
2726. Margaret Maher
I beg the church to listen to the voices of its
people and enter into some dialogue.
3916
2725. Katherine Klapdor
We need dialogue and action asap
2650
2720. Christine Huntsdale
this is a letter which is well overdue and I
commend those who have articulated the
thoughts of so many in the church, so well
2650
2710. Sophia Gatti
I agree whole-heartedly with this petition. The
‘Church’ is the ‘People’ and the role of priests,
bishops and the Pope is to serve the ‘Church – ie
6060
the People’ not the other way round. The
injustice in the dismissal of Bishop William
Morris made me ashamed of being a Catholic.
2706. Annette Conroy
I support this petition
3185
2705
28
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2700. W. Fidler
If history teaches us anything, it is that they will
NOT listen, that’s why the church is in this
5022
situation.
2697. Terry Walsh
As one of a multitude of "lapsed" Catholics, I
welcome and endorse the sentiments expressed
so forthrightly in this petition. Who knows? A
sincere acceptance of this petition by the
hierarchy may serve to revive one's faith!
2687. Breta E Cohen
The Hierarchy need to listen to the voice of ALL
the people. The Church in Australia, at present,
is suffering the equivalent to a bushfire. We all 3130
know what happens after the fire has died-there
is new regeneration..
2685. Gerard Donovan
Fully support the petition!
3139
2684. Lawrence Cohen
Will they listen?
3130
2681. Roslyn Day
I was inspired by the letter and believe that we
should be looking to the future of the Church for
future generations, that they too have the
4382
opportunity to worship and receive the Eucharist
in their own Communities and local Church.
2673. Colleen Leonard sgs
The Spirit is alive and active in these Open
Letters
2649. Jane Edwards
We have already lost most of my generation (X)
2582
- change is needed and now.
2645. Jennifer Greblo
This is a strong call to think, listen and respond
from a heart enriched by the love of God and
example of Jesus.
2633. Graham Apthorpe
I agree wholeheartedly with the statement. I
chose to become a Catholic and I want to belong 2794
to a Church of which I am proud.
2626. Chiarina Blake
As the Holy Spirit brought filled early Christians
with the joy of proclamation, allow us to have a
voice. If we do not act now, the Church will die.
3440
I want our Church to become more fulfilling and
meaningful to a changing generation. Why are
you not listening to the winds of change?
2625. Katherine Rankin
I give my support to this letter
4701
2620. Denis Sully
We pray for a church that we can be proud in
belonging to. We pray for a church that reflects
6271 and
3747
3002
3550
29
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
the Kingdom of God to the World. We pray for a also 3033
Church of love and compassion not reason and
law.
2616. Simon price
I support the sediments in this letter to the hilt
2800
2612. john Murphy
I agree we are going back to the old ways
5093
2611. Clare Lade
I agree wholeheartedly. It is about time the
Church sits up and listens to its people.
3070
2609. John O'Donnell
"New forms of ministry for women and married
men" needs qualifying. The presbyterate for
married men is an ancient ministry which needs
2430
restoring. "Ministry for women and men, married
or unmarried" would be a more appropriate
expression.
2608. Judy Bone
Amen!
3350
2607. Frances Cassidy
Well done on expressing my views
3135
2603. Elizabeth Lade
"Love one another, as I have loved you..."
3747
2602. Clare Bradford
I fully agree with all that is said in this petition.
While the Vatican has been woefully slow to
recognise the terrible effects of the sexual abuse
of children by priests and members of religious
3161
orders, it has clamped down on the mere
discussion of the ordination of women. There
exists a serious disconnect between the Vatican
and Catholic people, who are the Church.
2599. Allan & Julie Muller
Agree totally
2598. Danielle mcdermott
I believe in this letter however would word it in a
MUCH stronger manner. Hopefully the churches
will not take a decade to properly compensate
3141
victims of sexual abuse and be more inclusive in
the acceptance of homosexuals.
2597. John Russell Archibald
This petition expressed succinctly the concerns I
4350
have had for many years.
2585. Catherine Anne Hally
I am in full agreement with the views expressed 3089
2584. Laurence James Hally
I totally support this petition
2583. Scott Parkes
I support and commend without reservation these
7250
comments
4715
3089
30
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2578. Dawn Smith
2576.
Marie and Des
O'Connor
I agree totally with the sentiments expressed
above. Vatican 2 offered us a breath of fresh ait.
Now it seems the window is closed, or at least,
being closed. I pray that our Church leaders will 2794
listen to the Holy spirit speaking through the
sincere supplications of the people of God
concerned enough to sign this petition.
We strongly agree, (as his statement applies to
Australia, too) with the recent parliamentary
condemnation of the “once almighty Roman
Catholic church” by the Prime Minister
2221
(Taoiseach) of Ireland, Enda Kenny: "the
dysfunction, disconnection and elitism that
dominates the culture of the Vatican to this day."
(Wikipedia)
2574. Vincenza Pols
I fully support the views expressed in this letter. 5159
2573. Rene Pols
I strongly the sentiments in the letter.
2568. Margaret Tacey
Our own local church community has seen years
of trust undermined and lay people whose work 2566
is highly valued dismissed.
2561. Lynda Roberts
I agree wholeheartedly with these comments.
4053
2560. Paula Brown-Graham
The Vatican 2 reforms seem to be being
reversed.
3882
2560. Paula Brown-Graham
The Vatican 2 reforms seem to be being
reversed.
3882
2559. Frank Brown-Graham
I am hopeful that our Bishops will take note of
the depth of angst amongst good, faithful
catholics.
3882
2557. Chris Baring-Gould
To our Bishops: put into practice the 2 greatest
commandments that Jesus gave us, The rest will 3129
follow.
2556. Joy Leneaux-Gale
The situation is at crisis point and sensible and
responsible change must take place now before
we lose another two generations.
3463
2555. Alex Hobbs
Adaptation is key, let's keep it relevant
3000
2553. Maureen Morrison
Transparency, Love & Social Justice to ALL!
S.A. 5554
2552. Joseph Valente
As a young Catholic I sincerely hope that this
3191
petition does not fall on deaf ears. Unfortunately
5159
31
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
part of our pacifist nature means that we are
often not strong enough in seeking justice in the
face of abuses of power.
2551. John &Trish Tarlinton
We agree completely.
2905
2549. Jill Uhr
please, hear our prayer.
4064
2546. Jane Monk
The wisdom of God is available to all who have
3137
ears to hear, irrespective of gender, age, or status
2544. A.J.Cravana
amen !.
3156
2543. Christine Douglas
The spirit breathes where it will and no doubt
where it can, please act before it can no longer
breathe through you, our supposed leaders.
4120
2542. Ted Kildea
Needs of people with disabilities ignored at St
Christopher's cathedral but Archbishop recorded
on plaque. Archbishop has directed that this
2615
letter not to be distributed in Canberra/Goulburn
parishes.
2539. Vincent O'Hara
Most Catholics I know are all calling for a new
look at our church, eg., why fiddle and fool
around with such esoteric language in the Mass
when shattering events and real wonderment
about faith and its practise is rampant
2537. Robert Joseph Dowling
Leaders lead by example. Christ's representatives
3084
must exemplify Christ's message.
2522. christine o'grady
I fully endorse these sentiments!
2100
2521. Bernard Mervin
Hopefully, this will lead to solidarity.
6112
2516. John and Therese Wharf I agree wholeheartedly
2578
3860
2515. Natalie Vander Sluys
Please listen and act in accordance to Jesus' goals
for us all - to live in a loving manner with God 3109
and each other
2514. L.J. Craddock
Like so many fellow Catholics of my generation
I’ve come to realise that with the worsening
shortage of clergy God is trying to tell us
something. It seems, however, that among the
2153
ranks of the hierarchy only Bishop Bill Morris
has been listening. All of the wrong reasons are
ascribed to what is a dramatic slump in the
church’s mission. Inevitably, unless the solutions
contained in this document are activated, and
32
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
soon, within thirty years the church will be
reduced to sect status in Australia.
2511. Brian Ford
Too many have experienced the matters covered
and despair of inadequate responses. Please God 2152
this will be listened to and acted on.
2510. Mirella Furlan
I agree with all that's in the letter and wish to add
that I'm also very upset at the doing away with
the 3rd Right of Reconciliation in most parishes. cesira
My fear is that the Pope, Cardinals and Bishops
are not listening to their people.
2497. Patricia Fallon
The Church is the people - ask the people.
4075
2494. David Wallace
None of my children are now practicing their
faith!
5074
2493. Suzann Seals
I would like a church that I can feel part of. One
that honestly lives gospel values. We need it
5253
now, not in 100-200 years.
2492. Frances Simpson
So glad this petition has been organised as I have
been wondering who to write to to express my
3352
concerns.
2489. Madeleine F. Graham
thank you so much for the opportunity to speak
out on such a vitally important issue.
2488. Steggel M
The church needs to practise its humanity in a
practical way with the congregations it find itself
with. A majority of ageing parishioners calls for
more understanding of physical limitations. It
would be kind to make people comfortable with
the idea that kneeling is only an outward sign of
devotion and those with knee and hip problems
are not expected to cause further discomfort.
This might seem like a small point but I have
seen lots of very proud and traditional Catholics
2550
struggling to their knees!! Otherwise I feel the
OPEN LETTER was very well put and does
indeed reflect the views of very many Catholics.
I am in my mid 60's and have never felt the need
to comment before but changing the responses in
the mass in such a superficial way is
unnecessary. If some one was that bothered by
the existing responses why on earth did they not
just go back to responses in Latin. It seems to me
that the service is being spoilt by these changes
along with the indecent haste of the retiring
7304
33
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
collection.
2478. Frank Smit
I pray that this letter is accepted as the genuine
concern held by so many Catholics about the
future of the Church in Australia and that the
3109
Holy Spirit guides our actions to bring the
faithful - especially the youth - back into its fold
2475. Roselyn Mamet
Absolutely my sentiments. Thanks
4556
2474. Giles MAMET
Let us welcome Christ back as the true head of
His Church
4556
2470. Peter O'Connor
Nothing new here, sadly - the familiar matters
are still the relevant ones, and the situation
4116
continues to deteriorate unless and until they are
honestly and openly addressed
2467. Elizabeth Nolen
So many people in Australia express these views
4503
- well written!
2454. Sean A Kennedy
I can find no connection between the pink socks
and white hats of WYD Sydney and Jesus Christ. 3184
Can anyone make a link?
2452. Denise MacKay
I concur with the sentiments expressed! How can
you pretend to be 'perfect' when you have abused 5291
and ruined so many young lives? God knows..
Monica Gabrielle
2448.
Montserrat
I was born a Catholic but the Church alienated
me. I hope I can see it differently one day, but I
hold not a lot of expectation
4508
2443. Pieter van der Vegte
I agree with all that has been written and the
requests contained within this letter.
4032
2439. Janet Chaplin
I believe we cannot go backwards. We need to
evolve as I believe Jesus Lord would have,
encourage totally welcoming all
5021
2437. Andrew Wilson
A clear statement of my dismay at the current
situation & showing a way forward.
Vic 3054
2428. Mrs Ann Apthorpe
Yes, Yes, Yes, Thank you for articulating
2794
exactly what I have been feeling for some time!
2427. pamela schulz
I agree the stance on women must change
5081
2426. ursula drasdo
great that our church is having a chance to go
forward, whilst still being that of the first
4655
34
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
disciples.
2421. Anna McCormack
Time for the Church to embrace considerations
around fairness, equity and social justice.
4103
2414. Leonie O'Keefe
especially agree about the lack of equality for
women in the church to have no voice or
authority t
4059
2413. Stephen D'Agata
We have strong communities built on faith and
love. Please allow us to fully utilise all of our
resources to create a Church that is both relevant 3095
to wider Australian society and the Gospels of
our Lord.
2407. Denis Voight
I hope some one will be open to the plea of the
church
2404. Mrs Siobhan De Coppi
I especially agree with the comments about the
lack of equality for women in the church and
continuing need for the church to place virginity
6230
for women and female saints as so important, but
not for men. Where does this place me, a mother,
who is so obviously not a virgin?
2401. Sophie Langlois
Open your heart and hear.
4109
2397. Leonie Holmes
Thanks for your efforts
5235
2396. Leon Holmes
Totally agree
5235
2395. Margaret Armstrong
I fully endorse the content of this letter
3187
2394. Jennifer Dunn
I am a former Catholic and now an Anglican
priest -- banished to boarding school at 7 because
3228
of domestic violence and found corresponding
violence as a boarder.
2392. Ian Ridley
I endorse the content of this letter
4061
2386. Lindsay Gardner
I wish to add my name to the clamour to be
heard
2299
2384. John Nicoll
I endorse the concerns noted in this letter
4740
2381. Gavan McCormack
I look forward to an open forum being called by
2380
our Archbishop here in Adelaide
2380. Peggy Russell
Totally support this petition
88001
2904
35
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2378. Margot Henry
I agree wholeheartedly with all the comments
contained in the above document and request a
speedy establishment of the Synods to discuss
these matters further.
4066
2375. Brian Dempsey
This petition reflects very well my concerns
about the hierarchy of the Catholic Church. the
Church needs to shift in this way or it will
become irrelevant
5172
2365. Bernadette O'Brien
The Church must return to the ways of Jesus
4035
2353. Angela Foulis
It is time to come together with Gods love in our
hearts to not only Renew but also Refresh our
5431
Catholic Faith for all the young and old that are
yearning for Change.
2350. Jayne E. O'Callaghan
I trust due consideration will be given to the
sentiments raised in this letter.
2349. Gregory Beech
stop changing the creed, prayers etc. Get the kids
n/a
in
2348. William O'Callaghan
I agree totally with the sentiments of this letter to
3440
which I am now a signatory.
2347. Jacinta Holland
As a life time committed church going Catholic,
I have deep concerns as to the direction that the
church is taking. I see the teaching of Christ
3102
lived out in the people of my children's Catholic
primary school and within our local parish, but I
do not see it in the hierarchy of the Church.
2343. Richard Fakhry
Long overdue. This would go a long way
towards brining many back to the fold.
2341. Dr John Donnelly SJD
Issues: I support many of them. How can a voice
be heard when deeply held opinions, supportive
of the Church but pleading for understanding, to 2902
Bishops, over the past 30 years, have been
ignored. So I sign the petition!
2338. John Thomas Hehir
An ABSOLUTE Necessity
3912
2335. Trish McCormack
We need to move forward, not backwards
5070
2334. rosemary hayes
Would that the hierarchy listen to the people of
God! Jesus condemned the Pharisees for their
legalism.
2154
3440
3927
36
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2333. Dr Daniel Murray
I pray the voice of the concerned is heard
2125
2328. Suzanne Edge
This petition reflects my opinion.
3204
2322. Jenny O'Halloran
It is to be hoped this important issue reaches
those empowered to note and react.
3109
2320. David Macey
About time/excellent petition
SA5165
2319. terry fitzpatrick
can we let go of fear and become people of faith. 4101
2318. Catherine Carolan
I wouldn't be able to be specific but have
misgivings about some backward steps that
3165
ignore the beautiful Pope John 23rd 's motivation
for calling VII
2317. Matthew Rogerson
The church needs to review celibacy laws and
exclusivity. Many parishes now have lay
ministry just to keep going, so it’s obvious that
less and less follow the calling because of the
archaic rules that govern them.
2316. Frank & Annie O'brien Good, comprehensive and penetrating.
5081
2030
2313. ross Shanahan
I am a 81 year old rusted on Catholic. The
current problems of the Church are particularly
painful to me. The administration cannot drive
5052
me away but they can certainly alienate me.
Have done. Let's get back to where Catholicism
made holy sense - Vatican 11
2312. Graham Hoy
Offered thoughtfully and prayerfully
3141
2311. Elizabeth P. Ryan
Come Holy Spirit.
3021
2309. Peter F Ryan
I pray that the leaders of the Church will listen to
3021
this petition from the Holy Spirit.
2308. Tim Taylor
If our Australian church is a mirror of the wider
church, I expect this will make no difference.
5018
Worse, we will be isolated for signing.
2305. Justin King SJ
By our love for one another they should be able
to recognise us as His disciples (Jn 13:35). Why 5453
not?
2304. Mark Casey
May the holy spirit guide our church
4352
2302. Quentin O'Keefe
I agree fully
3823
37
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2300. Joseph P Quigley
I feel that expressions like "due process" need to
be explained. "due process" according to Canon
2537
Law lags behind "due process" in Australia's
legal system.
2297. Mary-Ann Lennon
Please listen to the people as Jesus did.
4870
2293. Moira Beech
We need a church that can move with the times
for the sake of our children. We are losing the
youth at masses in Australia at a scary rate. We
changed from wood stoves to electricity, let's
move from boredom to enthralment
n/a
2289. Michael Donnelly
Totally support the views of this letter. The
Vatican needs to get back in touch with the spirit 2450
of the Gospels.
2285. Anthony Medlicott
Please listen to the people as Christ did.
3196
2283. Ron Webb
Well put! The points raised - if accepted &
adopted by our hierarchical curia church - will
do much to satisfy the 'majority' of Catholics'
desire to see the Vat 11 principles fully
implemented.
6330
2281. Annette Leahy
please serve God's people, not just yourself
3633
2273. Lorraine Phillips
Yes I have lots. I realise that the church is more
than just the mass but it is the doorway into the
renewal of our faith each week. The mass does
not touch me deeply and sincerely, so how can it
reach my teenagers or my husband who was
once of another denomination. They no longer
attend. I now attend irregularly and it saddens
me. We need to come together and feel Jesus as
one, worts and all, at the moment the church is
so top heavy that it is going to crush its very
2779
existence. As Catholics we love the church, its
very essence is Jesus so how can we not love it.
The old building is not holding up against the
beautiful climbing flowers that are trying to fill
its crevices and a return to its organic state of
purity. How can we live as Christians if we are
all frauds? The fact is that we are all simple
people who yearn for the truth. Thank you for
reading my thoughts.
2272.
Michael and Mally
Parer
We support all of this without reservations
3842
38
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2271. Lina Parrenas
Absolutely agree with the petition
2155
2270. Christine Coorey
I endorse all sentiments expressed in the letter
2034
2268. barbara ann hoo
don't feel I belong anymore
4173
2261. Gabrielle Rebbechi
At last the Body Of Christ gets to speak out. !
3799
2260. Rachael kapitany
Finally, someone speaks out!! I pray they hear
us!!
3977
2259. Yvonne Mensforth
When I was a child the church was strong; but it
was a life of fear, especially for women. I would
like to see a strong church again, with the
5161
message of Jesus Christ, to live a life of
Responsibility, and Love with a message of
inclusion and community.
2258. Michael King
Preaching practices need to be replaced by
facilitation
2254. Norm Russell
Very strongly supported. Simply put, the Church
needs a 'shot in the arm' to bring it into the 21st
century. When I say that, I'm thinking of the
need to make the Church more attractive to
young people. More charismatic activities are
needed to draw and keep young people interested 2904
in the Gospel. Also, a move into the 21st century
would be helped by ordaining married and
female priests. Certainly, Christ didn't have
female disciples, but the role of females in
Christ's day were far from what they are today.
2253. W Justin Halpin
Very succinctly put Peter, only hope enough
disenchanted people make an effort to capitalize 3187
on your excellent initiative; well done.
2252. John Angus
For me, the most telling failure of the Australian
Church culminated with the dismissal of Bishop
William Morris from his Toowoomba Diocese
with the surrounding secrecy and apparent lack 6019
of support from brother Bishops. His story was
not given proper consideration. His departure
reflected a grave injustice against the truth.
2248.
Patricia and Michael
Day
6010
We strongly support this initiative and warmly
congratulate those responsible. We used to say "put Chist back into Christmas". We hope and
2577
pray that this groundswell will put Christ back
into OUR CHURCH.
39
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2243. Desmond Darcy
Strongly agree
3250
2242. Mary Schofield
A very timely letter. thank you
2360
2238. Greg McCann msc
Bishops, please listen...listen...
2033
2227. Wayne J McMillan
As a middle-aged man who has physically left
the Catholic Church but is still essentially
spiritually a Catholic, I implore you to listen to
the Australian laity, with an open heart..
2770
2222. Crofton and Pat Lee
The petition echoes our own strong views.
2073.
2220. Patricia Moran
We need to be heard and responded to sooner
rather than later.
3630
2217. Maree Robertson
Very concerned about all of these issues.
2602
2211. Noreen Townsend
This petition has my total support
6058
2210. Robyn Cummings rsj
It is with great sadness that I feel it necessary to
6169
fully concur with the contents of this letter.
2208. Margaret Burke
an important initiative
2207. Bernadette BRADY
We have a voice; Let us speak for the church that
is, and that we wish to create, guided by the
6051
wisdom of the spirit.
2198.
Allan and Denise
Pendal
Fully support
3197
6430
2196. Dennis Kelly
A strong advocate for married priests and women
6100
clergy
2194. JOHN QUILTY
I probably don't see the crisis facing the Church
as critical as the sentiments of the letter reflect,
believing materialism and "other gods" are as
much to blame for declining participation as
failings of the institutional Church. Nonetheless,
those latter failings surely exist, particularly in 6169
the disconnect between hierarchy and the
Faithful. Any initiative to press the hierarchy to
actively and regularly consult, hear AND
RESPOND to we the people who ARE the
Church has to be positive.
2193. Paul Mensforth
We exist in an interesting time. A time of
renewal and conversion. As parts of the 'body' of 5159
the Church, we are all called to action. All of us.
Our Church leaders play an important role in
40
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
'being' Church, but we too must play our part in
'being Church' and renewing our own faith,
taking responsibility for our Catholic tradition
and being witnesses of Jesus in our world. It is
through our service to others, through acts of
peace, justice and love that we will rejuvenate
our Church.
2187. Fr Terry Herbert MSC
Jesus' faith community - our Church I love and
try to serve - is 99.95\% lay faithful. Renewal is
largely happening from here. That miniscule
percent of Clergy "calling the shots" plus a few 2576
lay sects seem to have missed Vat II. What do?
Step around, pray deeply and just go for it. Jesus
did.
2186. Charles Renie
Too abjrct
2185. Garry McDonald
Please God this will be at least acknowledged as
a cry for a Church we want to belong to and love 5014
again
2176. peter reilly
urgent
2175. Lyn Hart
The real church is the ordinary people. We don't
2903
need the hierarchy.
2168. Maureen Schiemer
May the Holy Spirit guide all members of our
Church
2787
2163. Helen Thomas
I fully support the sentiments contained in this
letter
3131
2161. Shane Lewis
Talk about a railroad Job on Someone..) Shows
how genuinely out of touch with reality you are
4370
2157. Moya Homan
I pray that Church leaders will listen to the voice
2900
of the Faithful
2156. Robert Allen
please reconsider
2794
2152. Estelle Burey
Please read the attached petition.
4455
2151. Mrs Daphne Sibelle
Wonderful news
London
SE25
4NL
United
Kingdom
2150. Rosemary Breen
A church of transparency, accountability and
2360
consultation would be so appreciated and would
2605
5067
41
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
renew trust in leaders of the Roman Catholic
church.
2147. EH (Jim) Kelly
absolute support
6152
Our parish priest (Fr Mathew Muller, pp
Maitland) had advised us in writing that we
should not worry about a lack of priests as I
think we might run out of parishioners before we
2144. Mr Christopher Peacock
2320
run out of clergy" I hope he is wrong but i fear
he may well be right and being up against such
views I commend those who have worked so
hard to get this petition together.
2143. Frank D'Orazio
There needs to be a more active dialogue and
consultation between priests and parishioners
6021
2140. Patricia Frost
I can no longer remain silent when we, THE
CHURCH, are hurting so much.
3199
2134. Julie Ottobre
Congratulations!
3131
2132. Mary Mazzella
This petition could be the last cry for help from
many still practising Catholics.
2069
2127. Martin McPhee
Please read. Please listen. Please understand.
Please step from your thrones and embrace all
that Christ taught, for the sake of my Children.
3150
2116. Carmel Powell
I heartily endorse, with hope.
3021
2109. Margaret T. Newman
I have included a comment in email Reply mode. 3056
2106. Anne Grubb
As a practising Catholic, I have been concerned
for many years re the direction of the church.
Each Sunday, I see the numbers diminishing and
fear that in ten years there will be no solid base
for our Church in Australia to continue. We did
send our children to a Catholic school and we
have tried to instil Catholic values in their
2602
upbringing but they do not see the role of the
Church in their lives. This is not an unusual
scenario. Please allow our bishops and priests
continue their wonderful work with the help of
the parishioners, many of whom can see their
beloved church disappearing before them.
2100. PAUL JACKMAN
I fully endorse, especially after the news from
Ireland last week
5046
42
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2098. Elisabeth Burke
I fully endorse this letter.
2011
2096. Maree Tierney
Distressed for all the good men and women our
aging religious, who have watched a vibrant
Church be dismantled from above. Disappointed
for my parents generation who sacrificed so
much to help build wonderful parishes only to
3186
watch them die. Distressed that I cannot offer to
my children the liturgy, parish community and
spiritual guidance I received. Depressed that
many will not sign this petition out of fear.
2095. Tricia Carr
There are many issues that need to be addressed
but if the Australian Bishops take any notice of
3044
this petition then that will be a small but
encouraging start.
2094. Margaret Cassidy
I believe that an openness by the hierarchy to
listen to the cries of the faith community is the
only thing which will save the present Church
from total irrelevance!.
3644
2088. Sherine Prins
Support the petition although I don't expect the
current backward looking leadership to change
one bit. "When will they ever learn..."
2759
2079. Frederick Prins
My relationship with my Church is at an all time
low and on the verge of disappearing into
disillusionment and disgust at the leadership and
management. The hierarchy is involved in an
exercise akin to rearranging the deck chairs on
the Titanic (changes to the liturgy as an example)
whilst the Church is drowning in a sea of apathy 2759
and indifference by ordinary Catholics. The
cancer of abuse and sexual misconduct is
destroying the church whilst Rome fiddles. This
is an urgent wake up call by those of us who still
care about OUR church. It might be too late
already I'm afraid.
2078. Judy Moore
I fully support the contents of this letter &
petition.
2077. Maria Dunell
My support of this petition is intended to be with
total respect for the Church and in no way do I
3015
wish to promote anything that is contrary to
Gospel values.
2076. Elizabeth Jansen
I endorse the petition as presented and have been 4122
deeply disappointed with decisions made by the
3187
43
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Vatican for many years and find it difficult to
associate with the Roman Catholic church
though am still doing so.
2074. Vicki Lamb
It's easier to be locked out of the church than
welcomed in these days. Not much nourishment 4151
for the "flawed" it seems.
2072. Terence O'Donnell
Listen, with the ear of your heart.(St. Benedict)
2070. WAYNE McGOUGH
At a time when we need our shepherds to lead us
as they were chosen to do, they not only are
3156
ignoring the various dingoes ready to pounce on
their flock but are ignoring the cries of the flock.
2067. ANNE KELLY ibvm
I fully endorse this letter
3067
2066. Vivien Collins
Please hear us!
WA 6152
2064. Moira Streets
Totally and fully support all the points of this
petition
3150
2063. Bob Cullen
May we return to the values and teachings of
Jesus in the Gospels.
4551
2061. john farnan
I am 78 years old and am an enthusiastic
6233
supporter of the intended outcomes of Vatican II
2058. Pauline Power
Please listen and act!
4051
2056. John Hiller
strongly support
6959
2055. Joan Seymour
Thank you for this opportunity I was starting to
lose hope altogether.
3020
2049.
Patricia Bolster
2047.
Guido & Rosina Vogels
2046.
Richard Flynn
2779
I fear this petition will not be heard. I pray I
2487
am wrong.
May the Risen Christ continue to guide us
and walk with us,we are losing another
generation of Catholic youth.Lets create
some sacred space where both sides of this 6149
schism,can listen to each others pain and
dreams. Now that would be
LEADERSHIP!!!!
I wish you and the Petition all success!
Hopefully and with God's grace, the bishops
5067
have developed a sense of justice and a
stronger backbone this time around!
44
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2042.
Valerie Huston
2035.
Peter H Lyall
2034.
Margaret Sleigh
2032.
Margaret Saunders
2031.
Anne McPhee
2029.
J Green
2028.
Michael Howard
2026.
Harry Mithen
2016.
Mike Fitzsimon
2012.
cecelia jackson
2011.
Marian and Peter Carroll
2010.
Maureen Burke
I am a religious sister and more and more
find it hard to "belong" in the church. The
Church as the people of God based on the
life and teaching of Jesus - Yes; but the
hierarchical Church No.
Do not wait any longer Holy Father give the
church justice
There are two things that our church needs to
realise in addition to those expressed in this
letter. Granted our church is not a democracy
but the Holy Spirit speaks loudly and clearly
through the CHURCH that is through us the
people and two, it is useless bemoaning the
fact that people are leaving the church. It is
not the role of the people to go to the church.
The church should go to them and be open to
them. If we create laws to shut people out
then we cannot wail about the empty
churches.
This letter covers all my concerns for a
Catholic of the 21st century
While I agree very much with this lettter, I
also hope that the whole church picks up
Pope Benedict's commitment to
environmental issues.
4812
7212
2666
2112
3067
4551
The Church exists for the people, NOT the
people for the Church
...and so say most of us !
Exactly! It has become hard to support an
institution that divides us more than unites
us.
this is so overdue....
The authentic voice of the people must be
heard in our Church rather than the current
retreat into various niche "orthodoxies".
The 'people of God' are tireless in their
generosity, support of their parish priest, care
of those in need, the sick, those in prison and
present in all ares of society. They are the
visible voice, arms and feet of God among
us. Publically the Catholic Church is
exclusive, e.g. it refuses Eucharist to
practising homosexuals and remarried
divorcees; surely the very people who need
to be nurtured within the community. The
new English translationof the Mass requires
3114
6060
4128
2902
3084
3021
45
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
2009.
Barry Murphy
2007.
James D Lally
2003.
Frank Smith
2002.
1969.
1968.
1967.
1966.
1965.
1960.
1959.
me to consider myself a 'man' which is quite
incorrect. Please become more inclusive and
respectful of women.
Strongly supported
The Church is dying through lack of real
leadership and such a poor public image of
today's clergy. Please, before it is too late
give us the same leadership that Christ gave
us and make some bold and dramatic
changes within the church and its current
teachings which affect all of us. In particular
where did Christ stipulate that his only
leaders had to be unmarried. It is time for
change.
I wish I had the words to expres my
dissappointment with the Catholic Church of
today.
Thanks for the opportunity
Margaret Maureen Aylmer
Toss van den
I fully agree ,I long for change ,I pray for change
Heuvel
Bernadette Touhy
most likely, the people who have given away their
Fr Peter Wieneke Catholic faith will not get to sign, I know I can sign on
osa
behalf of some of them, others just can't be bothered any
more
Mary Gallagher
Fabulous letter, i hope it reaches the right people and
James McCarthy
makes a difference.
Angela Mathews
It is imperative that we the Church, the body of Christ,
Catherine
move forward together.
1943. john corcoran
1942. Joanne Kohler
1935. Peter Whitelaw
3111
3227
2204
2800
2454
3939
4151
2460
3132
3049
3805
I believe St. Peter had a wife so what is the opposition
to married catholic men becoming priests and how can
celibate men understand let alone advise couples on
their emotions and feelings? I believe Jesus said to the 2902
apostles to be servants to each other not dogmatic
rulers. For the sake of Christianity may all Bishops (and
the Pope of course) LISTEN to their flock.
My 'faith' is very important to me but I have stopped
going to Mass. Our 'religion' has stalled. My daughters
do not have the same opportunities/rights in this church 2324
that my son does. That is not acceptable in any
organisation.
We Need to work together to support the growth of our
3204
communities in Christ and not rely on the efforts of
46
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
isolated communities. The Church needs to plan / hav a
vision of how communities can interract / develop
'Sensus fidaelium'
3107
1933. Pam Storey
The minimal changes to the order of a few phrases of the liturgy
to what we said years ago, & the waste of time & money, is just
1925. Barbara Baker Nero fiddling while Rome burns. We have to accept african
4151
priests no one cn understand, while a wonderful Bishop is
sacked for being caring & humane. God help our Church!!
1924.
Anthony
Molyneux
Our authenticity is at stake!
7054
I am a Catholic who teaches in an Anglican school, as Head of
Religious Studies, where 40\% of our students are Roman
1921. Paul A. Lawry
3431
Catholics. Many of these families are disaffected because of the
sins of the Church and alienation of our youth.
1917. Ivo Astolfi
For so many centuried the Church has been so concerned with
its own power and prestige that it now gives the impression
that the maintenance of its power somehow is the will of God
and an end to be pursued for its own sake.
2615
1916. Mary Condon
A renewal of the Church akin to Vatican 11 is really needed
again today.
4570
1909. Denise Johnston
Please listen to your people
3222
1908. Caroline Stinear
The church is the people - all the people
3806
1905. Jack Bennett
I concur completely. Some of Our Lord's best friends were
women! Many Pope's of history have had wives, and as to
the election of bishops: It would be preferable to know why
exactly how and why some of these bishops are elected.
3127
Some of them are not as worthy as the priests of our
parishes. Throughout the process, it must be remembered
that a God that loves us so inexorably that he died for our
cause must always be the centre of our workings. Amen.
1901. Gabriele Cannon
Amen! Finally, those whom I suspect are in silent majority,
and members of our Church speak out!
3127
1898. C.G.Kilpatrick
I agree with the sentiments expressed also.
2607
47
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Yes hard for people to follow a hypocritical hierarchy -one
that seems to merely be a continuation of the Roman Empire
1888. Marco Saccotelli to subdue people and stop them from expressing individual 3167
thought sourced in their divinity. Please make a real effort to
practise the gospel.
I full support this petition and weep for the future of the
Church
4122
1882. Paul T Hanrahan
Urgent attention rerquired please
3131
1881. Errol DeSilva
it is time for action
3434
1880. Merle DeSilva
an excellent letter -
3434
1879. Janis Flanagan
This petition embodies my thoughts. I have in fact stopped
going to Mass because I felt so strongly about many matters
4151
being swept under the carpet in relation to victims of abuse
by priests.
1886.
1877.
Gregory Joseph
Lynn
Ronald James
Flanagan
1863. Paul Ward
Thank God others feel as I do.
4151
I fully agree with this letter, may the Holy Spirit guide us all. 2257
1859.
Jennifer
Herrick
I endorse this letter. I pray it is taken seriously.
2257
1858.
Jennifer
Crone
I strongly support this petition.
2026
Barbara
1850.
Collopy
Look and take notice of the usual ratio of women to men at Mass,
particularly on a week day. Allow for the fact that possibly more men 3124
may be at work. The role of women is very much overlooked.
Margaret
Something must be done,he is a good man and we are short of
1849. Fleur
people like him. He is so popular and has done so much good
Bennell
1848.
James
B.Kelly
4006
I firmly believe the Holy Spirit is with us all in this
2487
1847. V.Staggs agree heartily with sentiments expressed in our name, the ordinary
2607
48
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Catholics of Australia.
1845.
Lyn
Taylor
1843.
Margaret
if only
Stinson
1835.
Geraldine the Catholic Church is dying, we need to revive Christ's teachings and
2517
Cook
love for all
I agree with the letter fully
Alleluia! Vox Populi goes public.A big step forward for speaking the
Peter
truth in charity. How can the laity not speak out/seek clarification
1834. Sheldon when they know they are by Baptism 'priest,prophet,and king' and
are made in the image and likeness of God. The dignity of being
cfc
Christian demands sharing of responsibility in a meaningful way.
4560
3037
0810
1833.
Rod
Davison
Only by responding to issues such as these will the Church regain
some relevance in Australia
4051
1818.
George
Keenan
Hagiocracy !!!!!
6060
1811. Bill Holligan The Good Shepherd didn't disdain some of His flock
1810.
Roma
Carroll
Rachel
1804.
Devlin
1802.
Michael
Phillips
1801. Barbara
Phillips
1798.
Jenny
Francis
1794. davidand
Congratulations on the initiative
3156
3133
Finally - somebody that understands what Australian Catholics
want.! As a non practicing Catholic I would rejoice and return with 2324
a renewed faith if the church embraced these changes .
At last smeone is making a stand
5023
Long overdue!
5023
Please do wake up and listen to the reasonable message of
reasonable Catholics.
2602
agree totally
2615
49
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
juli ritchie
1792.
URSULA
WHITE
MAY CHANGE COME SOON
1788. peter newman
1776.
Louis Shane
Allan
2111
urgent change is required if our catholic church is to
survive
3206
Please listen to the people the church
3039
1765. catherine gilbert grateful for an opportunity to voice great concern
3146
1762. Martin Wilson
It's nice to see the Church in the Modern World
operating!
1756. Gerard Tonks
On raised issues of Church practices and governance, I
and many others are disappointed at being fobbed off 6076
by priests and bishops.
Anne
McLaughlin
1740. Denis J Brown
1739. jeff antonio
1741.
1737. Jim Cashman
1736. joseph o'grady
Joseph Barbara
1735.
mssp
1734. Sarah Buchanan
1733. Claus Wieneck
2033
I also feel strongly this way.
2607
Bill was a very passionate bishop
4350
4350
Well done Australia
excellent letter
dublin 6
0000
Strongly support the petition
2010
I agree with the letter
207
V3E 3R7
I support a more inclusive church and believe the
changes to the liturgy are exclusive and not
1730. Maree Dunne
2630
inclusive.The important role that women play in the life
of the church is largely ingored.
I am very disillusioned with the injustice of the
dismissal of the Bishop of Toowoomba. I also believe
1728. Kevin Dunne
that St Paul wrote that we are all equal before God .The 2630
church's discrimination against women in ministry is
anti-gospel.
Please listen to the comments of all petitioners .I do not
believe we are a collection of misguided revolutionaries
aimed at undermining all Church Authority . We are
1727. Peter McDonald ordinary everyday Catholics who love the Church and 4350
earnestly desire it to be relevant in our lives and our
children`s and future generations .For many of us this is
the first time we have been asked for and are giving out
50
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
thoughts and opinions . We want to be the Church in
the way Jesus has shown us .The Jesus I know was
more worried about people`s welfare than following
non relevant laws . God bless Bill Morris ..
1716. James Deery
we seem to be going backwards to the pre vatican 2
days, so many catholics like me in their 60's are getting 3875
depressed at the road we seem to be heading down
1715.
Mrs. Joanne
Nolan
Great Idea
1713.
Peter & Teresa
Finn
congratulations, this is truly needed as a wake up call to
3156
our leaders
1698. Noelene White
I heartily agree with the sentiments of this letter I am
deeply concerned at the disillusionment of many in the
church at the percieved injustive church leaders inflict
2011
on people who have a different opinion on issues.
Church leaders have lost respect and people are looking
elsewhere to meet their spiritual/faith needs.
1695. Garry Nolan
Many of our Bishops have told us that the dramatic
decline in the number of Catholics who attend Mass is
due to a lack of interest in the spiritual and the
attraction of money, sport and personal pleasures. This
is not correct. The principal reason is that many
Catholic see no connection between the actions and
attitudes of the Leadership of the Church and the
Teachings of Jesus. Comments by Cardinal Javier
Lozano Barragan from Mexico who said – “the abuse
3101
matter isn’t a direct concern for me or for other
cardinals, not at all” illustrate that many in the
Leadership of the Church are completely out of touch
and have failed to realise that this is the darkest period
in the Church’s history. Children are the most
vulnerable members of society and their protection is a
fundamental obligation. On other matters, the sacking
of Bishop William Morris from his role as Bishop of
Toowoomba displays the worst style of leadership.
1682. Mylee Trevitt
perfectly expressed by Alfred Arena. I reiterate his
comments .
1672. Brian Smith
1671. Fr Kevin O'Loughlin
3101
3919
My impression is that a lot of the heirachy have
come to put the institution before Christ. In other
words the Church has become just another
2906
corporation concerned more with form than
substance.
Peace
5086
51
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1664. Michael John Belcher
This vision needs to start at the bottom with out
own clergy many of whom embody the worst of 2320
clericalism
1660. Paul W Newbury
I am a writer on Indigenous Affairs, the
environment and sustainability
2578
1656. Anne Doran
We all make up the Church. please listen to our
voices
3915
1652. Carmen mitchell
The Catholic Church is rendering itself irrelevant
and primitive in its philosophy towards modern 4005
society.
1648. Narelle Mullins
There is no evidence of genuine dialogue
happening with hierarchy and the rest of Church. 4012
We are all the People of God
1645. Stephen Kelly
The Church can be true to its mission and listen
to her people as well. Please revive the spirit of
Vatican II.
1639. Paul Rule
It is sad that such issues can only be raised
through such a petition. What has happened to
3039
our parish and diocesan bodies under the current
regime in Rome and Australia?
1632. John B. Wilson
1631. Benjamin Jackson
2207
Now disaffected but still hoping!
3802
I am a young person who is about to enter
religious life. Although I feel a call to celibacy I
know that this calling is increasingly rare
2113
amongst my generation.The first step to a
renewed Australian Catholic Church must be
married clergy.
1630. John Prior
PLEASE LISTEN
VIC 3128
1627. C. P Hickey
Fully support this request
4120
I thoroughly agree with the contents of this open letter
and consider it a great opportunity for Catholics to
1624. Christine Wood
7000
voice their concerns to the Bishops of Australia and
from them to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI
1615. Andy Quaine
I would like to see more open recognition given to the
horrific damage (including suicides) done to the victims
of sexual abuse committed by the clergy. An
2251
appropriate response would be regular "Prayers of the
Faithful" in Sunday masses - "for the victims of sexual
abuse in the Church, and their families."
52
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1608.
Maureen
Williams
Josephine
Humphrys
1600. Rita Fordyce
Malcolm
1599.
Fordyce
Romuald Brian
1598.
Hayes
1602.
Necessary and would enhance my practice of the faith
3931
Agree wholeheartedly with letter.
3070
also Fully support letter
3931
Fully support letter
3931
unconditional support to the letter
2641
1591. Jan Grajczonek
1589. Linda Davis
What has happened to the spirit of 'aggiornamento'?
4170
Please listen such that I can embrace the Church again 2120
1581. Greg Mitchell
Amen! to the Open Letter
2092
1573.
Margaret O.
O'Donnell
I fully endorse this petition
2643
1570.
Margaret
Matassa
I pray the Holy Spirit will enlighten us all.
6156
1569. Jim Rolfe
1568. Denise
1565.
Bernadette
Mercieca
The essence of our Catholic faith is so rich and
inspiring.I pray that through this process the
Institutional Church will again encourage and empower 3550
local parish communities to give proper expression to
that richness.
What would Jesus say of today's institution of
3147
"church"? Back to basics please.
When will the Church start listening to the voice of the
people before it is too late and many local churches are 3079
left empty?
1562. Greg Sunter
For too long, the hierarchy of the Church has listened to
and acted upon the handful of complaints by selfappointed enforcers of orthodoxy. Listen now to the
4105
concerns of hundreds / thousands of faith-filled people
who want their Church to be life-giving for themselves
and for their community.
1558. Joyce Flint
The church needs to be open to listening and
accountable to God
1555.
Maree
Sobolewski
3444
I also realise and believe that we each need to
personally keep our focus on Jesus. This boils down to
our own personal relationship with God and
2640
accountability for our own faith.This can sustain the
Christian through thick and thin regardles of the
failings of the Church.The Eucharist for example, will
53
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
be desired despite institutional church flaws as will
other blessings such as the scriptures, music,
contemplative prayer , rest (23rd psalm) etc, that are all
life giving in a tangible way now. However the
institutional chuch needs to be more acountable,
transparent, wise and show leadership for
contempoaray times. It is lacking this with remoteness
and isolation. It needs to update and reform according
to the graces of vatican II. The writings of Dulles make
this clear. It needs more humanising particularly in its
communication skills with more dialogue
comprehendable in the many local 'vernaculars'
speaking relevantly to the present, and not just the
future or the past. The spring time is well over due.
1552.
Kevin and Jenny
Thank you for showing the way.
McCoy
1549. john luscombe
1545. Paul Crombie
1540. Peter Thomas
back to basics please
3505
2233
Changes need to be made soon otherwise I fear that the
2121
current decline will be inexorable
Rather than fear we should embrace the consequences
3206
of the 2nd Vat.Council
Prof Greg
Schiemer
Let the spirit of the Gospel be the hallmark of Catholic
2566
leadership
1528. Joseph Tesoriero
I agree with the letter's contents. Bring back the life of
2093
the church promised in Vatican II.
1531.
1527.
Bernard
Orenstein
A great opportunity!
The People of God inspire me & I pray that the
institutional Church might one day do so as well. I
1521. Phyllis Vespucci grieve for the way that it's autocratic actions are
alienating so many young people who could be the
future of the Church.
2084
3073
1519. John Walsh
Why has Bishop Morris not been provided with a copy
4121
of Archbishop Charles Chaput's Official Report?
1514. Mary Hirning
I also love our church and pray the Spirit is leading us. 4505
1512. Shane Murtagh
On behalf of my family - my faithful and loving parents
Eamonn and Philomena, and brother Joe - I would
humbly ask our Pope and Bishops to hear the fervent
2042
cries of God's people and to act concretely and
compassionately in response. Those cries have been
heartbreakingly loud and clear from the poor victims of
54
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
sexual abuse and we are yet to witness satisfactory
justice and punishment for the child rapists
masquerading as priests, and especially for those
Bishops who covered up their actions. I pray for the
victims and their families that they may receive God's
healing, peace and true love. This is but one, yet the
most appalling, symptom of a sick Church in dire need
of healing and change. We need gender equity at all
levels as God has no favourites and women constitute
two-thirds of practising Catholics, optional celibacy
and therefore married clergy, and a Vatican III. Like
Jesus, we must be inclusive and reach out to the young
and marginalised. Stop tinkering with the liturgy and
fix the Church!!
1509. Donella Johnston God speed!
2913
1493. Joan Newnham
Totally and strongly agree with the points made in the
letter.
fully agree we must be relevant to our flock like Jesus
was to the people of His time and region
How does a Catholic believe in one's beliefs of the
teachings of the church when a wonderful Bishop Priest
like Bishop Bill Morris can be forced into retirement
when so many other priest have failed to be forced out
of the Catholic religion even when they have been
found guilty of hurt and suffering they have caused to
other human beings.
I agree with all points in this letter
1488. Helen Niven
Please listen to our pleas
1503. Robert Lunnon
1497. Rena Curll
1494. Marilyn Rea
2085
2099
4121
2031
2477
1481. Ray Thurlow
I wholeheartedly endorse these intentions and, by
signing this petition, I am demonstrating my
support for them. Unless the Vatican is prepared
to heed the Catholics of Australia and
4053
acknowledge the problems we are confronted
with, my fear is that Catholic church here in
Australia will not be able to carry on with the
very limited numbers of priests and religious.
1473. Dan Enright
A great letter and I am in complete accord with its
3094
contents.
1471. Mary Shanahan
1470. Kathryn Williams
I pray that this letter be received with am open
mind and heart
I love my church but I agree with this petition. I
belong because of the people although I have
great respect for the instituion BUT some things
2030
2100
55
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
need to change!
1460. val cust
excellent letter
3144
1458 Jeffrey Baker
The Church is my home, I would like our
shepherds to here and know my voice.
5461
1453. Mary Cleary
I can only pray that the walls of the Vatican fall
down and the heirarchy recognise the people as
the People of God.
4350
glad for the opportunity to have a say
2643
1452.
ANNE
TECKLENBURG
1440. Amber Boardman
I am in total agreement with the sentiments
expressed in this petition and grateful for the
opportunity to give voice to our long held misgivings
concerning the regressive direction the Church has
been heading over the last few decades.
1439. Christine Georgiou
I hope that the contents of this letter will be
addressed while there are still people who are
involved with and care enough about the Church to
hope for change.
3126
1435. Warwick Carr
Why is the hierocracy of the church so afraid of the
people and inparticualar the women
3134
1434. Annamaria McGregor
The Bishop Morris story has galvanized me to action. I
live in a mining community where we see our parish
priest twice each month. The area he covers is
extensive and I feel that Father is constantly
threatened by the road hazards that exist on our
4745
country roads in Queensland. Our own Bishop, Brian
Heenan has been splendid in trying to address so
many of these 'new' problems in our Church, but he
can only do so much, without encouragement from
his leaders.
1432. Maureen Rainbow
I totally agree with the petition
1430. Mary-Ann
As mother of a gay adult child (who feels certain Jesus
loves and accepts him although the Pope calls him
"disordered") and 2 other children who accept their
brother and can't see why the Pope won't, where is 5007
the future? Unless ALL - including women - are
welcomed, accepted as they are, as equal in the sight
of the church (as our family believes we are in the
sight of God) people will turn directly to God and
2176
2580
56
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
away from an unheeding Church.
1426. Ann Austin
I fully support all the sentiments in this letter.
2066
1424. Eloise Hudson
With a young family just beginning school we dream
of a more relevant church so that our daughters can
belong to a loving, thoughtful and generous
community.
3184
1422. Helen Clutterham
I concur with all that has been written in this letter.
5043
1418. A H R Balthazaar
my faith is a gift from God, the attitude of the present
2261
Church worries me !
1417. Glenys North
The Catholic Bishops of Australia must hear and
convey this message to Pope Benedict
2250
1416. Martin Bain
Hate the new liturgy translations!
2134
1415. John Kennedy
We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide and strengthen
our Bishops, to put forward the views of us, who are
3631
concerned about the direction that our Church is
going in.
1414. Gerry Ambroisine
I suppose that Zip Code is what we know in Australia
2486
as Postcode which, in my case is 2486
1405. Frank O'Brien
We need to see and be the Spirit in action in church,
in us.
1401. Ray Klecko
The Church soon after Jesus met in local church
communities, led by women. All had a say. They were
the closest to the historical Jesus soon after His life, 5212
following his spirit. We need to have that spirit move
within us today.
1400. Paul Stinear
The resources wasted on the new Mass translation
should have been better directed at addressing the
serious issues facing our Church today.
1399. Harry Roelofs
Three of my four children have no faith in the church. 3156
1398. Euan Drumm
Act now. Tomorrow will be too late.
2485
3931
3130
57
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1397. Carolyn Wlaker
emphatically agree with all comments
6214
1396. Patrcia Harrison
I would like to see the Holy Spirit and Jesus more
welcome in our church
024862349
0
1393. Gerard Eugene O'Neill
endorsed without reservation
2207
1391. michael brasher
The Church, by ignoring the dramatic social
changes that have occurred over the last 30-40
years, has become an irrelevant anachronism in
the eyes of those who have grown up with these
3149
changes. Conduct a survey of the age distribution
of those still attending Mass (13\% of nominal
Catholics?) for proof of this claim beyond
dispute. So what are you going to do about it ?
1389. Anne Mathas
I am very sad about the backward changes in the
catholic church and would like to see the
2903
hierarchy of the church listen to what the people
in the pews are thinking.
1383. Helen Nock
Do we know how many Parishes helped
promulgate this letter
2545
1381. Martin Lategui
The catholic Church is running out of time!
2604
1377. Gemma Wunsch
A well presented article with convincing material 2601
1370. Annie March
alleluia!
7000
1366. Eileen Thorpe
It is time for equality for all end the patriarchal
ruling of the church
2460
1356. Ruth Toohey
the need for married leaders/priests is critical so
that young married couples can have guidence by
people who have first hand experience at living
2617
the difficulties in which this life entails. Real
support is needed to entice young couples back to
the church.
1348. Kathryn G Hailey
I hope this has some impact. Wonder when the
Church will realize it is more than property,
buildings and tangible things and start to take
notice of the REAL Church - its PEOPLE!
2902
1342. Josef Ober
I fully agree with the contents of the petition.
2113
58
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1336. Gary Norton
We Are The Church!
2033
1334. david j derrick
we must move forward to survive
3931
1332. Ann Rochford
I absolutely support this petition
3206
1331. Alfred Arena
It seems to me that in the Church there are
politicians and evangelisers . The institutional
Church has got too comfortable with dealing with
uneducated masses over the past century and a
half. Now the accademic and intellectual level in
Western societies has risen to such a degree that
reguires the institutional Church to come out of
3912
the Constantinian era and into the twentyfirst
century and a more intelligent approach of how it
stuctures itself to become more real for our time.
If the Church does not radically change from its
present position it can only play politics that
stifles the heart of the Gospel and consequently
keep alienating the faithful.
1328. Eileen Castles
1327. Marcelle Mogg
1325. Carmel Vanny
1322. Mike Griffin
1321. Leona Sweeney
1318. Judith Madsen
Fr Frank Andersen
1315.
MSC
1314. Antonio Patti
1308. Paul McGann
1307.
Conrad & Nalini de
Sielvie
So appreciate this petition
4350
I hereby support the requests in the attached
submission and respectfully request that these be
considered by the Catholic Bishops of Australia 2031
and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI during the
Ad Limina discussions.
Thank You for expressing what so many faithful
2785
Catholics are thinking and feeling.
Fully agree with sentiments of letter.
4573
At last we have an avenue through which we can
collectively make our concerns known. Thank
2148
you for making this possible
Totally agree
2570
Unless the Church listens to the voice of the
People, the People will not listen to the voice of 3036
the Church.
Five children in our family. Keeping them
engaged with "Church" is difficult, despite all
3806
attending Catholic schools. Perhaps our example
was not good enough
Liberal or conservative, we must start doing
3150
something!
The Pope, Cardinals,Bishops, Priests & all
Religious Orders who undertake to serve GOD's
3934
CHURCH including the laiety be honest with
themselves before they can be honest with anyone
59
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
else meaning that we must love one another as
Jesus instructed us. Also get rid of all the pomp &
pageantry in conducting church ceremonies! It
would be better to look at the sermons that priests
are asked to deliver. I have observed that some
priests may be better off not doing it at all
because they rattle on & bore the congregation!
Might be better for the congregation to be told to
meditate on the Lessons & Gospel for five
minutes? We must remember that all the great
man made Bassilicas, Abbeys, Catherdals, Church
buildings were not built for God's glory but for
the "pride" of the so called "rulers" who initiated
the projects? So let us start living Jesus' way
justly, loving honestly & walking humbly with
the one & only true GOD!
1305. Dr. Ronald Fitzgerald with my whole-hearted support
3934
1303. MARY O'DONOHUE I fully support the issues expressed in this petition 3055
1302. Grahame Lesha
Give us a Vatican Council 3 ASAP
2261
1293. Annie Lynn
1292. Wendy Kokegei
1292. Wendy Kokegei
Its about time
2261
It is time for the Catholic Religion moved into the
2250
21st Century
It is time for the Catholic Religion moved into the
2250
21st Century
1286. debbie lynch
I am at a loss to understand the reasoning behind
the changes in the liturgical responses which have
been foisted upon us and which I can only
describe as diabolical. To me this process is
nothing more than a diversion from the besetting 7050
problems facing the Church and which are not
being honestly addressed. The whole exercise is
as futile as re-arranging the deck chairs on the
Titanic .
i agree with this petition
2251
1278. Betty Kiekebosch
I agree
1276. Anne Galbraith
1275. Frances Anne Stubbs
I ztrongly support this letter.
2090
Thankyou for taking this initiative.
3931
I endorse this letter with all my heart and faith in
3931
Jesus.
1287. Angela Ritar
1274. Eva Angela Ady
1265. Barry Hoare
Agreement
2250
4870
60
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1260. June Mason
We live in a democratic country where we have
equal rights and opportunities but we have the
spectacle of our Catholic Church denying women
the same rights and opportunities as men, and
expecting us to believe, obey and not discuss
certain crucial topics which Pope Benedict
2121
decides he doesn't want discussed. We are mature
and intelligent adults and I for one will no longer
be dictated to in such a negative and dictatorial
manner. I ask you to open your eyes and your
mind and LISTEN to your people!
1257. Mark Slaven
Greater consultation necessarily leads to greater
understanding by both sides.
1253. Louise
Get with times. Change a few things and I will be
3156
a more active catholic.
1250. William J Geerts
If the church does not change its views on
married and female priest, it does not cater to the
new generation and this is seen in any (western
3124
church), it may still do well in the poor countries
,as it did in the 40 tish and 50 tish in western
Europe
1244. Therese Schwarze
1233. ROBERT WARRIN
1232. Des Walsh
Hope for future of my church
3165
;a leadership that manipulates &suppresses
people under tthe guise of the holy spirit misses 3156
the simple message of jesus.Iove your neighbour.
Seeing the altar girls as well as altar boys processing
after Mass today I thought, one day there wiill be
women priests following them and people will not
regard that as unusual, much less as wrong. That will
not be the end of renewal but it will be progress.
We must speak out,pray, and act for continuing renewal
of our Church, our silence will encourage regression to
Pre Vatican 11 teaching and practice.
1229. Patricia Clark
Agree wholeheartedly
1228. John O'Halloran I agree wholeheartedly with the contents of the letter.
our church has become too heirarchial heavy & does
1227. maria warrin
not relate to every day practising catholics.
Coraleen
1230.
McGann
1212.
Catherine A
Pearson
I support this petition
Richard
I fully endorse this letter. It is honest and truthful in
Edmonds
every way.
1207. Marlene Burgess I feel so abandon by my Church after I came forward
1208.
2068
2485
3806
2097
3052
3156
4121
3123
2478
61
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
regarding my abuse at the hands of a Catholic Priest
and Nun. My only wish was to reconnect with my
Church but feel it is imposible due to the said Priest
after being sacked being bought back home for his
Funeral which was held in the very place the abuse took
place the Cathedral in Lismore.
1204. leo kane
Please Bishops, give us a voice. We belong to the
Church just as much as you and want to work WITH
you. We do love the church too
2046
1202. Monica Morrison
It is time we had a truly socially just and inclusive
church..
2539
1199. Vic Camilleri
It is about time we become one in Christ
3033
1197.
Monica Mary
Hartley
1196. Gerard Brady
1192.
Christine
Robinson
1191. Pat Waterworth
Not angry, not surprised but so sad at what has
happened to this good man.
Collegiality and subsidiarity have been part of Church
life since its inception [refer Council of Jerusalem].
This way of being enhances and enriches Church with a
shared wisdom informing all members starting with the
youngest [as St Benedict counselled his monks]. As
church we are preventing the Spirit from being present
when the church faithful are being deprived of offering
in humility their insights and wisdom. Let us be faithful
to the Church's council of Vatican II and re-establish
these foundational principles and encourage local
synods so the voice of all can be heard.
We follow Jesus Christ who was crucified by the
leaders of His Faith because He spoke out against the
leaders of His time! I follow The Son of God who
preached openess, love, justice, intergrity, truth. I love
God above all things, including The Roman Catholic
Church.
Now is the time for the church to become innovative
and consultiative. We want a vital, loving and living
church.
4019
2041
3095
4557
1189. Denise Sullivan
I totally agree with the thoughts and sentiments of this
4573
letter.
1184. Jann Symes
It is through the Holy Spirit these words are sent to you
to consider not only with your heads but your hearts.
2228
Please listen.
1180. Peter Williamson
1179. Sheila Whigham
Lets stop "rearranging the deck chairs on the
Titanic" ie. minor changes to wording ofthe mass
4573
and focus on the serious issues outlined in this
petition
Thank-you for your efforts
2615
62
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Totally agree with the petition, in fact the
3212
Hierarchy have just about destroyed OUR Church
I fully endorse the points of this letter. My heart
aches for the people alienated from the Church
1176. Corrie van den Bosch while they thirst for spiritual nourishment and a
3155
community that supports their maturing in faith
and wisdom.
Not sure
Great to see a group strong enough to stand up and
1175. Catherine McCabe
what this
be counted.
is.
1177. Frank Brennan
We catholics love our church and our community;
we don't want to see it self-destruct. It will soon be
just a group of old men barricaded against the
1173. margaret luck
world, preserving antiquated ideas and language
unless we change. We should a vibrant and
dynamic church. Congratulations to all who have
signed this petition.
I feel this letter is written with guidance of the
Holy Spirit and has much integrity. I
1172. Annabelle O'Connell
wholeheartedly agree with its entire contents, and
pray for continued guidance for all Christians.
I strongly agree with all points made. I pray that
heed is taken. There is a lot of dissatisfaction on
1171. Barrie Daly
the ground but more worrying is a growing sense
of detachment.
For our Church to move forward into the 21st
1170. Anita Davis
century we must be more informed and keep Jesus
as our focus
2615
2582
4573
4551
1164. Peter Brown
Fully support the statements
7052
1161. Ray Broeren
Excellent letter
3825
1159. Gerard Colla
I applaud the group that had the courage to pen
what so many catholics I come into contact with
actually think. It's about time the hierarchy
realised that WE are the Church and we are not
happy with the patriarchal and patronising
leadership we have inherited. I pray for a
leadership that follows Christ's example instead.
3016
1152. Maria Rattray
This letter is an excellent summary as to why so
many people no longer find a place in today's
church. If Christ's church is to survive for the
coming generations, much will need to change.
2615
Sadly for most, the damage has been done and
they find Chrit's spirit, not within the confines of a
building, but within each other.
63
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1150. Peter Noone
It is time that we, the laity, had a voice in the
church.
2066
1145. John Stretch
Fully support letter
3111
1137. Helen Sloane
I agree with Number 1136
2795
1136. Anne O'Donnell
I strongly support the senitment expressed in this letter. I
feel often we are sheep whose shepherds are to focused on 2620
legality to give appropriate pastoral care.
1135. Mary Cain
the institutional image is now as of Pharisees. Pray they
open their ears and eyes, reading this.
2038
1134. Jacqueline Hudson
I'm in complete agreement with the contents of the
petition.
7004
1130. Lorraine Daly
I fully agree with this
4573
1118. Carole Stretch
Fully support letter
3111
1112. Rosemary Brassil
I am an Australian Catholic who received the changes
introduced by Vatican II with joy. This petition is the only
forum for my voice to be listened to as a lay person. I pray
that the Astralian Bishops will realize that they are our
shepherds and that their flock is seriously hurt by their
refusal to listen to the wisdom that the Holy Spirit is giving
us at this time.
2617
1111. Frank Brassil
A necessary expression of the thoughts and feelings of
many who love the church but struggle with the Church.
2617
1110. Lynette Ray
I agree and support wholeheartedly contents of this
petition
2602
1108. Bridget Cuffe
a concerned christian
4510
1107. Robyn Erickson
Fully endorse the petition
2615
1104. James Rankin
I consider myself a Catholic and not a Roman Catholic.
2481
1102. Clare Williams
Thank you for an excellent letter which expresses the
thoughts of so many Catholics today.
3109
64
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Are we to be taken back to the dark ages & have to bow to
the clergy as in some cases they are putting themselves on
1096. Margaret Stewart
3104
pedestals & treating their congregation like dirt? Jesus was
a people person, on the same level as us.
1095. Kevin Stewart
Totally agree with all issues raised in petition
1094. Jim Grace
I thought progress was supposed to take us
forward not backwards. With the changing of the
responses in the Mass no thought has been given
to the people who have converted to the Catholic
faith since Vatican 2. It also has to be remembered
that young adults under 40 years have grown up
2615
with an all embracing celebration of the Eucharist.
Some words used in the new Mass are not easy to
say or understand - especially for the very young.
Also, in Australia we speak English - not Latin or
Greek. Once again think of the population under
50 who have not studied these languages.
1091. Adrian Brannan
Please return our church to the teachings of Christ! 2087
1089. Eric Rosario
May God help us and the church.
3088
When one considers the teachings of Christ as
reflected in the New Testament,( with the frequent
call to a positive joyful approach to relations with
the Father & as between the members of His
Spiritual Community) with the predominance of
the current Pharisaic model of behaviour of the
heirarchy WHEREIN frequent condemnation of an
individual's action is accompanied by an
exponential growth in the extant rules specifying
the CORRECT Catholic behaviour. There appears 3101
to be no place for the gift of an informed
conscience. One wonders if the current clique
exercising "POWER" not "LOVE" in the Church
intend to develop a search engine similar to google
but entitled "CATHOLIC" so that the individual
believer can find the answer to every
challenge/temptation/ question they face during
life. A solution no doubt the envy of the Pharisees
of Jesus's time.
1088.
John Graham
HOLMES
3104
1084. Desmond Morwood
excellent letter
2710
1082. Patrick Kempton
Beautifully written and accurate
3636
65
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1074. Frank Scheele
I wholeheartedly endorse this statement.
4122
1071. Mary Hyland
I fully endorse all sentiments expressed in this
petition
5044
1069. Maria Vieira
" Listen...and incline the ear of your heart."
It is time for the Church leaders to listen to those
that they adminster the faith to.
a letter I heartily agree with,as do many.
2600
It is time the Bishops listened to the sound of
reason.
I was so excited by the opening horizons of
Vatican II but these now seem to be narrowing.
Have we ceased to listen to The Holy Spirit?
Australia
2075
1060. Margaret White
Please listen
2107
1058. pacilia stasi
After reading the Pagan Christ I am in libo, but I
pray to understand it's contents better and to be
able to return to the fold. Although I still attend
Mass, but every Sunday now for the last six
months I ask my self what am I doing here.
Thanks for having the courage to challenge the
institution.
3130
1056. Johanna Sullivan
Could not agree more
2611
1052. Eileen Boyldew
I fully endorse the views expressed; I was raised a
Catholic, and loved the Church, but in recent times
those who should be the guardians of our
2615
community do not seem to be listening to the
people of the Church.
1045. Pat Cagney
As a middle-aged, single woman, who has been
actively involved in the Catholic Church in Parish
Ministries and in my various life vocations as a
nurse in a Catholic Hospital, a former Religious,
and in Catholic Education (teacher and Diocesan
Resource Centre Coordinator), I have become
increasingly despondant with the direction the
Church hierarchy is taking us. My sister, who was
Chairperson of a Parish Council in Queensland,
2569
along with her Council members, was a victim of
a cover-up regarding the re-location of SA priest
who has since been convicted of sexual abuse
crimes. Innocent people were sacrificed to "save"
the Church's institutional image. My sister has
since left the Church and, as she has said, has gone
on to something better - Christianity! I agree
wholeheartedly with your letter, though I do not
1068. Robert Hennessy
1067. Paul Finnane
1063. Anthony Pope
1062. Michael Tong Lee
5153
5037
7050
66
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
1041. Helen Druett
expect to see any response to it from those "echochamber" men who call themselves "shepherds". I
see no future for me in this style of church, though
I still remain Catholic in faith.
Wonderful succinct letter - lets hold contents in
2617
prayer.
Clinging to power and control in order to save this
dying church is in fact putting more nails in the
coffin. The dark ages of old men running the show
is over. For myself I treature my cultural catholic
1036. Christine McCabe
identity as for involvement in the church I left it 2203
long ago. The problems? too many to mention. For
me personally being a lesbian means I am not
wanted, not included, pathologised etc etc. Do I
care? not much because the church is irrelevant.
1035. Ed Wensing
I fully agree with this letter.
2913
1027. Brian L. Gesell I agree with the sentiments contained in this Letter
3111
1024. Alan Miller
May your ears be opened
Maureen Walsh1023.
This letter has my full support
Martin OAM
May God hear our prayers for much needed change and
1022. Louise Thorpe
understanding.
1021. Royce Johnston Fantastic letter!
2489
3530
4228
44108
Glad to have the chance to have a say about something
3172
I care about so much.
I concur wholeheartedly with the contents of the
1014. Thea Hagarty
3150
petition.
I agree with the sentiments expressed in the letter. I
hope that they are carefully considered by Church
1013. Geoff Mulhearn
2299
Authorities to help the Church to be what it is called to
be in our world.
1016. Catherine Dixon
1008. Ken McDonald
1007.
Margaret
McDonald
My concerns are all voiced in this paper. I pray that my
3172
voice will be heard.
I am grateful for the eloquence with which this paper
has addressed my concerns of our Church in Australia 3172
today.
1000. David Sexton
Agree with contents of petition.
999. Anthony Borger Totally agree
Veronica
Mahoney
994. Marie T
997.
At Last, a Lay Group which brings issues which I
totally agree Thank you
Bring life into the church
4207
2061
Rnthmah
2484
67
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
McCarthy
993. Fr. Morris Clarke They are still tribal mid east minded.
4559
Look around and all you see are old priests forced to
continue to administer despite their aged. Because of
the sexual abuse by clergy and the way the Church has
992. John McLennan handled it, the credibility of the Church has been
3162
mortally wounded. The Church's leaders must do
something or else this great religion will pass into
obscurity by the end of this century.
Fr John
985.
Wotherspoon
A great injustice was done to Bishop Bill Morris. The
process and result of the new translation has made
many people sad.
4178
984. Diane Terkelsen
I give this my full support
983. Doug Sutton
The principle of subsidiarity should be reinforced so that local
Bishops and congregations can make decisions about liturgy,
pastoral care practices etc rather than have them dictated from
Rome. The sacking of Bishop Morris was disgraceful and
2650
came about via the selective listening to a small conservative
group within his diocese. What about the voices of the
majority?
981. Lesley Bartlett
980. Rita McCarthy
979. Ken McCarthy
977. Michael O'Farrell
976. George Miller
Richard C. Placone,
975.
Sr.
3192
well written and comprehensive
Q4011
My ideal would be that women could become priests to help
3214
lighten the load on current priests and that they could marry.
It's about time the Vatican joined this century, before there are
3214
no Parishioners left.
I wish I believed anyone in the upper parts of the hierarchy
was listening. This full scale rush backwards to the Council of 2208
Trent is terribly depressing.
Whatever happened to the good work of Vatican 2.
2232
94306
I believe this is what Jesus would want us to do.
(USA)
972. Richard Jupp
I am deeply saddened that my Church should have come to a
place where each one here felt compelled in conscience to
make her or his mark on this petition - but it has. Please - seize 3095
this moment and the opportunity it presents, to ensure that
none of us should ever feel obliged to sign such a letter again.
967. Michael Lyons
As one of five siblings brought up in a devout Catholic family,
I feel strongly about the need for a renewal of the Catholic
Church towards a more humane and inclusive organisation in
the spirit of Vatican 2. The abandonment of Catholicism as
4013
irrelevant to their lives by so many good people (including the
majority of my siblings) speaks volumes about the need for
change from within the Church. Please listen to the feedback
68
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
from your constituency.
I fully endorse this petition. Authority as we are experiencing
can command us to everything except love & understanding
I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments expressed in the
partition. As a parent of 5 children who have lost total interest
in a church that isn't walking the path of the Gospels please
listen.
When Martin Luther put up his petitions, the Roman Church
would not listen and they caused the church to split. If the
present Roman Church does not listen to its people, it will
split again into American Catholics, Australian Catholics,
Indian Catholic, African Catholics and so on. Why does the
Roman Church not learn from its past mistakes?
I heartily agree
963. M J Montgomery
962. Marita Egan
961. Ann Davidson
960. Patricia Hogan
3134
T3J
3R6
6051
The promotion of the new responses, as being better, is an
insult to the intelligence of English speaking people and does 3741
nothing to promote Christianity. [rather the reverse]
958. Don Grimes
950.
949.
944.
943.
2640
Anne Semmens
Jan and Geoff Hoy
John Redeker
Judith Lyneham
Great to have a voice...
Thankyou Thankyou!
I fully agree with the sentiments expressed
3550
2452
7150
7004
942. Moira Broderick
Thanks for the hope that we may all be in "the mind and heart"
of the "people of God"....definition of Vat11 for our church in 3129
the modern world.."Gaudiam et Spes"!
938. Jeff Kevin
It is to be regretted that a a letter such as this is necessary but
necessary it is. A group of radical conservatives (Bishops and
others) are attempting control issues they see as threatening to 7155
their authority. The Church need balance and respect, neither
are in the conservatives agenda.
936. Beryl Pavone
935. Max Fletcher
934. Joe Pavone
933. Harry Slorach
932. Henry Eiler
931. Vivienne Luke
Open the church doors -where are the young people?
fully support this initiative
As a non-denominational Christian, I fully
support the content of this letter as being
more inline with Christ's teaching as the
church, and all churches, need to grow to
achieve the ideals that He taught.
yes--we need to get involved as per Vat 2
This petition is sorely needed. I struggle to
stay in a Church which is sliding backwards
rather than listening to the call of the Holy
Spirit in our times.
3941
3677
3941
4510
7315
7054
69
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
926. Sandra Colley
925.
Vincent W.
Mirigliani
I believe in the Catholic Church, but am
finding it increasingly difficult to understand
it. I remember a nun teaching us religion
many years ago and remarking "you are not 4152
Roman Catholics but Australian Catholics" I
have never felt the hand of Rome so
powerfully as now
the people of God hanger for reform
19063
I still have a strong Catholic faith and still
attend Mass and receive the Eucharist. Most
of my life has been in the music ministry of
922. Anne Angiolillo the Catholic Church. However, I have lost
respect for the hierarchy, who appear to not
listen or act upon requests from the average
Catholic.
13203
I used to be one of the most educated and
believing Catholic’s. I loved the church and
felt that it was going to be the source of
leadership that the world needs. I have come
to believe the opposite: the church is a very
divisive institution. I reject any religious
belief not consistent with modern science.
33315
918.
Patrick F
Sullivan, Sr.
Thank God ! As a 43 year old working mum
of 4 my disconnection from the church has
been a source of sadness to me. I was blessed
to grow up in a faith filled rural family and
community where our Catholic life was
vibrant, communal, accepting and
progressive. We had many close family
friends ( priests, nuns, brothers ...most of
whom have since left their positions but not
our hearts) who frequently ate with us,
laughed with us, cared for us, taught us, and
were there for my parents. We had home
916. Bernadette Ryan masses, we played our guitars and sang loud, 2611
we lined up for youth weekends, and we
wrote poems for our grandparents and read
them at their funerals!! Our priests were our
friends and guided us gently without
judgement and by example. They did not
wear black. They were not ruled by rules, but
rather I believe, what Jesus would do in a
given situation. God bless those beautiful
people who are still out there, trying. But
there aren't enough. It is time to wake up.
Look at the empty pews. We used to be in
them.
70
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
915. rosanna riccio
914. Clair Webster
I find it is sad that our church can spend
hundreds of thousands of dollars in marketing
material, running workshop for the changes of
some words in our worship language which
does not encourage any spiritual growth, yet
on social justice issues which is the teaching
of our catholic doctrines our leaders do not
know how to effectively empower people at
local parish level, allowing this important
teaching to become luke warm in the hearts of
God's people. We need more teachings more 2137
resources more passionate leaders who can
engage in empowering God's people to raise
up and act in a society that is increasingly
being absorbed in this world of materialism.
Our leaders should engage into active
discussion with it's people at root level so
they can make wise and informed decision on
how to move forward so that future
generation will inherit a spirit filled church
and not stone buildings.
Please Almighty God, show our leaders the
same light of reasoning as you have
ALREADY shown your flock! Please pray
6108
for them God as they have most definitely lost
their way.
908. paulette zaryczny Amen
44119
I became a Catholic because of the hopes and
aspirations of Vatican II. We should not be
905. David Brennand
3450
going back in time using archaic language and
form.
Rosalind
904.
We are all the Body of Christ
3450
Brennand
902. John Cullinan
899.
Anthony
McIntosh
894. S.B. Kavanagh
Fully support petition as an active member of
3156
the church
Congratulations Peter - well written. This will
give voice and heart to many who believe in
the Catholic values but are totally
embarrassed by the Church's inept, opaque,
bloated and irrelevant bureaucracy. The
3070
Catholic community is full of the most
amazing people and it is these who deserve to
determine the future of their Church and their
faith.
Those in authority must listen and heed
7000
71
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Dean & Mary
Kitschke
887. Peter R Kenny
888.
885.
john gregory
hancock
We embraced Vatican 11 believing we are the
5022
church and we still believe it.
Transparency and openness please.
4350
please contact me so I can help personally and
2073
financially
We need to get right again with Jesus. We are
3629
far FAR too right wing now.
Fr.Morris Clarke Rome creeps to the evil of the origins in the
875. (Armidale
Middle East. Women are hidden muck lesser 4559
Retired)
animals.
876. Shannon Smith
I have grave fears for the church that has
868. Michael Downes always been so central to my life. I pray for it 2230
every day.
866. Gabrielle Schell Act before it is too late!
863.
860.
859.
858.
857.
856.
2611
Jim and Margaret
Our thoughts are consistent with this petition 3149
Esmonde
Being utterly disappointed with the lack of
courage displayed by the English speaking
Bishops regarding the new translation of the
Abel van der
Mass text, and many other matters where they 3141
Veer OSA
ought to have asserted their rights as Pastors
of their flock, I can only endorse this petition
and gladly add my name.
A well written letter, which one can only hope
will not fall on deaf ears. It is a great shame
that Archbishop Coleridge of Canberra would
not support this very clear message from the
Luke Howden
wider Catholic community. His motivations 2607
and aspirations would be more politically
driven than that of caring for his flock
through embracing the word of the gospel and
message of Jesus.
My thoughts exactly. One only hopes they
Sheila Duke
2602
listen to the 'people of the Church.'
B.Rel. Stud. I have been active in church
Patrick
affairs for more than 40 years and have never
2076
Kirkwood
felt more disillusioned. The new translation
fiasco has been the last straw.
Bernice Brady
This is an excellent letter
4355
854. Toni Kelly
working within an ecumenical framework I
find it increasingly hard to justify the
4216
behaviour and attitudes of the church , we
"the people" are the church and too many are
72
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
hurting and walking away. The Powers that
be should hang their heads in shame, where is
the compassion and love towards our own.
Surely our church is BIG enough to
encompass us all
851. Anne Le Grand
850.
Dierdre & Alex
Newton
I agree wholeheartedly with what was written
in the petition. The Church is the people,
3150
listen to them.
Our sentiments entirely!
Never have so many been so disillusioned. Oh
for the wisdom and foresight of John XXIII.
It is time for the faithful and mostly silent
846. Philip Fitzgerald
majority to speak and to be heard
without history we are nothing. History surely
has taught us that this is NOT the way!!
Genevieve
845.
Sacking one of His flock. The one who spoke
SLATTERY
and performed with Christian integrity. Bless
him.
How sad - I've seen so many whole extended
families abandoning a church which has
844. Bernadette Astill
alienated them, and appears unwilling to
listen to its people.
I too feel the pain of my Church returning to a
Mrs. Natalie
rigid, patriarchal entity, in spite of the failures
843.
Priest
of our leaders to deal with priests who do not
live their vows as Christian leaders.
John and Dawn
842.
Great letter
Sullivan
Yes, changes need to be made to the Catholic
841. Jane Hennessy Church, with the consultation of community
members.
i live in hope that we might one day live in a
840. Gemma Staude world where our leaders can guide us by the
ways of love and compassion for all
Francis & Denise
839.
we agree with this letter 100\%
Murphy
Father Ray
Sensus Fidelium is at risk-all our Baptism
838.
Crowley
energy is required
847. Peter Le Grand
836.
Ronald J.
Plunkett
832. terry fitzpatrick
2070
3150
273
2047
2095
5158
5044
cricket
3058
3939
4350
If you have ears, LISTEN!
2824
as Pope John XX111 said many years ago
unless the church falls into the hands of the
laity there is no future for the church.
4101
830. Eileen McNulty I endorse the content of this document
4875
73
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
wholeheartedly. I wish to reiterate that the
current manner in which women are
fundamentally viewed by the Roman Catholic
Church is unacceptable. In Christ there is no
place for the evil of discrimination of any
basis - racism 'no Jew or Greek"; no classism
"no slave or citizen"; and no sexism "no male
or female" (Galatians 3:28). Equality is the
right of every child, woman and man on God's
earth - the Roman Catholic Church is daily
abusing its God given power by continuing
with its discriminatory practices operating at
every level against women from the appointed
servant of the servants, the pope. Jesus gave
up his life to bring peace on earth. Oppression
is not peace; infallibility is not a justification
for dictatorship; discrimination of any kind
must no longer be tolerated anywhere on
God's earth and i believe our church is the
place to begin. While catholic women have no
equality no catholic man has either; one is
oppressed or an oppressor.
827.
Philomena van
Brunschot
As one who lived for more than 30 years in
Toowoomba I fully endorse this letter
824. Louise Durack
821.
Michael
McGuire
817. Catherine sugden
816. Patrick Sawyer
815. Vincent Bain
812. Brendan Ryan
762. Mary Ryllis
4151
6019
My church offers little relevancy to me today
and less to my children; it causes me public
shame with its handling of abuses; I am
embarrassed by its wealth in a world of need;
denial of natural justice and the practice of
discrimination offends my morality. I watch
my Islamic brothers and sisters rising up
3820
against autocracy while I am expected to
meekly accept it. Enough already! Unless a
satisfactory response is given to this petition I
may finally be forced to choose between
Canon Law and the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights.
I agree with the sentiments expressed and
pray that the church will be open to change
Couldn't agree more!
I wholeheartedly support the sentiments
expressed in the letter.
I agree with all the sentiments expressed in
the letter
Please listen to the voices of the people!
3162
3156
2066
4069
3065
74
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Clark
Winifred
761.
Coghlan
760. Phillip Coghlan
759. Peter Quilty
At last a chance to express our views and pray
4019
they be listened to
Totally agree with every point made
4019
Agree with practically everything that has
4810
been expressed
755. Kate Scholl
The Church will be much richer and vibrant
when we have a more say in what happens.
Let us be one in Christ together. If Jesus were
here today would we find him in the college 2147
of cardinals or in the streets of Calcutta or
Alice Springs among the poor and
vulnerable?
750. Maria Stephens
A disappointed catholic
2152
748. Bill Stephens
Disillusioned Catholic
2152
741. David Cantwell
Well said!
4103
Ewa
the wholeheartedly support the petition
Komorowska
737. Andrew Wilson congratulations on your initiative
736. Margaret Wilson total agreement
738.
733. Larry Adams
728.
Ann
Shepherdson
2111
3054
3054
I pray that our grand children will not have
cause to reflect on the stewardship of our
2460
church by our generation and wonder what we
were doing.
Fully support THE letter
3079
726. Fran Griffin
Very disappointed in Church's decisions
4551
Vatican 2 has been put on the back burner and
it seems the current leaders of the Church are
Gerard & Marie pushing us back to a pre Vatican 2. No
725.
3818
Collins
consultation process on changes to the Mass
with the laity-after all the laity are the ones
that have to be missionary to others.
723.
Catherine
Guilfoyle
Perhaps the Australian Bishops should also
look at the relevance of the new translation
for our Mass. I find the language structure
impedes the prayerfulness of our Liturgy
2290
which has served us well for the past 50
years. We should be looking at trying to
encourage the younger ones to stay within the
Church.
75
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
716. Helen Smith
715. Roy Smith
Laura Murray
714.
Cree
712.
Barbara
Campbell
with a hope that someone listens
Concur completely
To have this opportunity to be heard is
empowering. Thank you.
4362
4362
I am in agreement with this petition.
2010
2622
The Church is irrelevant to the lives of young
711. Elise McGarvie Australians. We are uninspired and tired of
3084
archaic dogma.
Christ’s followers are to GIVE live not be
710. Patrick Guilfoyle
2290
stifled in following The Lord.
707. Helen Richards
True, true words
4350
705. Libby Cremen
Very happy to put my name to this petition
and the sentiments expressed within
2605
700. Paul A Stead
Margaret
699.
M.Coffey
Let us all walk together with Jesus
I agree most strongly with contents of this
petition
Our church is defined by Vatican 11 as "The
698. Lucia Keightley People of God" It is time to revert to the
Council's teachings.
We may be voices in the wilderness,but we
697. Peter Keightley have a responsibility to continue, as we were
instructed by Vatican II
Why have the events of late ?Hardened my
Patricia Cecilia
696.
heart to the hireachy of "our" church in Rome
Stead
!!
4350
2131
3934
3934
4350
694. doug hodgson
We are the church. We need to be listened to
2607
rather than always being told what to do.
691. Denice Bourke
I fully agree with this well written statement
3616
689. Terry O'Neill
Thanks for the initiative
3124
687. Greta Grybaitis
I fully support this letter and do not see
afuture for the Catholic Church in Australia if
2614
these issues are not addressed and addressed
as soon as possible.
682. Patricia Blakey
Many Catholics in Canberra agree with the
views in this letter.
679. Margaret Grew
It is disappointing that the authentic message
4362
of Jesus has been lost
677.
Desmond
Pawelski
I fear it won't get better until it get a lot
worse.
2615
5045
76
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
674. Mary Cusack
Love is the central message of Jesus.
I respectfully and strongly support this
673. Margie Frawley
petition
5023
2618
I sit my grandchildren on my knee and
wonder about how they will express their love
for our creator and their fellow humans in
their world. Will they know the almost
670. Vic O'Callaghan indescribable person of Jesus? Will they come 2777
to be a part of the Body of Christ within a
Catholic community, within their world? I
also wonder if Fathers can be real fathers and
listen?
God help us if the teaching is not reflective of
669. Ron Bainbridge
3174
the people of God who are "the Church"
Please put Christian love and inclusivity back
668. Fran Topp
2539
into Christ's Church
665. Keith Bainbridge
663.
Neill Michael
Francis
657. Peter Seal
654. Ron Hoogland
653. Sanger Smith
651. Daniel Burns
I keep thinking about who Jesus criticised
most often when he was amongst us.
3216
I agree with the view expressed in this
2040
petition.
The light and vision of John XXIII and
Vatican II has been dimmed. The institutional
Church must heed the voice of its people, who
are the Church in substance. We yearn for a
3101
Church of inclusion, and not one of exclusion,
so that it welcomes all of us, and all of our
children. Then the window will be re-opened,
'to let some fresh air in'.
The Listening Church?
Please Listen To Your People Who Are
Disenchanted
5073
3550
The very essence of the whole gospel
message is underpinned by the life and times
of Jesus Christ, our Lord and saviour. A man
who lived a life of rebellion, who challenged
rules, who challenged hierarchy with what?
Love, relevance, compassion. A Jew who
challenged the Jewish leadership... and was
crucified, died, and rose again. What do we 2650
have today? Rules, hierarchy, infallibility.
Look around the Church, look at mass - I look
and I wonder, how long before all these
wonderful, beautiful, obedient older Catholics
pass on and there is no one left. Look at how
alive the Catholic faith appears to many. Why
do I, as a 37 year old man, feel like I am
77
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
'coping' with the Catholic church, able to
extract what I need from mass but making
excuses for her, making excuses for
horrendously managed acts of violence
against His children. No. Seek the voice of
the people, the Church, while there are still
some left, alive, who desire to live a Catholic
faith. The voices are there, if you will only
listen.
643. Annette Potter
listen to your people
2539
638.
Jacqueline A
Powell
Please send!
2478
629.
Margaret
Baldwin
I commend the ABC for giving this letter
voice to a wide audience
2230
626. Margaret Dane
Australian want to be active catholic
2577
As a woman, I am outraged by women's
exclusion from significant pastoral &
sacramental roles, by the endemic coverup of
clerical sexual abuse, and by church
Frances Devlin625.
intransigence on the use of condoms as a
3129
Glass
protection against AIDS and other stds. Its
failure to accommodate modernity and secular
education is tragic and saddening, if not
deeply reprehensible.
621. James Walsh
619. francis duffy
610.
Christine
Carolan
603. Jane Walton
An excellent letter.
2137
Fully support the sentiments of this letter. The
Church needs to embrace a paradigm shift
that involves a balance of bottom up-top
down dialogue. Only this will lead to a
sustainable and healthy Church. Damage
2031
control is not the way forward and has
aliented may would be Catholics from our
Church. Opputunity abounds in this
spiritually deprived world of ours.
I really hope that we can all acknowledge how
bad things are now and work together to
3067
reclaim our heritage.
Thanks for the initiative. Last night I was at
Mass and we read the new missal responses.
2322
The literal English translation of the latin
texts took me back a long long way. It was the
78
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
least prayerful experience I can recall in a
long time. It felt like a formal anachronistic
rubric devoid of love and life.
599. mary knight
I agree with the Open Letter as a mother of
six who no longer go to Mass. I think a less 4221
restrictive approach might make a difference.
It is now time to make dramatic changes to
authoritarian structurtes or tendencies to act
596. Michael Bowen unilaterally which are ignoring the laity and 3083
their desperate need to be consulted and "have
a say" - it is our Church!!
harold james
Some Toowooba parishes get One mass
595.
Q4225
coleman
month
594. Des O'Grady cfc I am very much heartened by this initiative, 5163
581.
Michelle
Sodomaco
Agree and support the open letter.
3218
I strongly support this communication to the
Pope
5042
Patricia
McInerney
Listen please to the faithful people of God!
2011
573. Angela Thomas
Please please listen honestly and be open to
what we are saying .
2289
580. Margie Abbott
577.
We need to provide a sacred space where
Catholics of all colours of the rainbow can
respectively speak,share their aspirations and
pain,and are heard with dignity and love. So
Guido and DR many people seem to forget we are a Pilgrim
571.
6149
ROSINAVogels Church- A CHOSEN RACE- a priestly
people.Jesus said your faith has saved you,not
dogma- rituals-rubrics-and religiousity.As the
people of God we need to remember that' we
are the living body of Christ'.
The forced resignation of Bishop Morris is the
570. Marie Hefferan
2489
catalyst for my signing this petition
568. Joan Owens
A long overdue change is needed
566. margaret gillies
a matter of urgency for the Australian church 2065
My prayer is that the concerns of the People
of God - the church - will be heard and
valued.
561. Bernadette Duffy Most heartily agree with all in this petition.
560. Lita Lee
Please listen to your people who are the
563. Irene Gilbert
3802
3102
4223
3094
79
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Church.
I agree with the sentiments expressed in the
3148
open letter, and pray that change can occur.
The Church of Jesus Christ is living the
Gospel not merely playing lip-service and
continually reinforcing a Centralist
bureaucracy that is out of touch with the
Christ of the streets. Why continue to fixate
on issues of sexuality and what may be
wrong. People know if they have truth in their
heart or if they have not. The Christ of the
Church I love is with me raising with my wife
our eight children and already ten
grandchildren, when I am working with
people who have a visual disability, or when I
553. John F. Gosling
3108
was visiting men in a maximum security
prison or when our Army Chaplin said Mass
for our Company and we shared the Eucharist
in a cleared VC camp high in the Nui Mao
Tao Mountains in South Vietnam in 1969.
This is the Church that our children can relate
to and understand. Not a Church that
disenfranchises women or a Church that
believes to protect the "Brand" at all costs
even when it is being cruel to vulnerable
children, women and men. 'Brand protection'
is not sharing Jesus Christ's love
554. Jody Ciorciari
So many people have lost faith, not in God
and Jesus, but in the institutional church, for
548. Brian John Snell many currently obvious reasons; we must be
helped to see the core of our faith: a loving
God and a model, Jesus, for living.
3150
546. Marian Neal
Heartily agree
3044
544. Linda Bertram
I fully support the comments of this letter
3109
DONOVAN
Nancy
total agreement with the above letter.
nil
533.
Jane Laidley
Nathan
Congratulations. A reverberating discussion
that needs airing. Structural and systematic
adjustments are critical to address spiritual
3122
needs and broader opportunities for inclusion
in the church in our changing communities.
529.
Stanley Thomas I fully endorse this petition. The issue of
Dawe
equality of women is particularly relevant to
541.
2703
80
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
528. Denis Howden
526. Cecily Howden
me. The only time that my wife and I attend
mass as unequals is at the washing of the feet
on Holy Thursday. The welcoming back of
the many thousands of married priests around
the world should be considered strongly. I
have seen many real pastors lost to the church
in Australia through this ridiculous disenfranchisement by the Church.
The text of the gospel for the 15th Sunday
2605
says it all - "listen anyone who has ears!"
I pray that you will listen to the voice of the
Spirit
2605
523. Simon Docherty Listen and hear
2063
519. Ann McNamara This should be Christ's church.
4410
516.
DONALD
FERGUSON
513. Damien Kennedy
510. Joan Whitbread
509.
Michael
Holdcroft
OPTIONAL CELIBACY FOR PRIESTS
WOULD ENABLE MANY GOOD MEN TO
BECOME PRIESTS. HOWEVER,
HOMOSEXUAL PEOPLE SHOULD NOT
BE ALLOWED TO BECOME PRIESTS;
BECAUSE THE BIBLE CLEARLY
OUTLAWS HOMOSEXUALITY. I HOPE
3105
THAT THE CHURCH WILL CONTINUE
ITS GOOD WORK TOWARDS THE GOAL
OF BRINGING ALL THE CHRISTIAN
CHURCHES CLOSER TOGETHER; TO
FORM A LOVING AND UNITED
CHRISTIAN FAMILY CARRYING OUT
THE WISHES OF JESUS CHRIST.
our diocese (Wilcannia-Forbes) is being
2732
treated very high-handedly!
The spirit of renewal has been stifled by those
who yearn for a return to the bad old days
5211
pre-Vat 11.
From one who calls himself a Catholic but no
76120 (Thailand)
longer follows the authoritarian church
May the Holy Spirit guide us to renewal, I
agree with all sentiments expressed in this
2131
letter.
Please Church Leaders, I beg you to take note
505. Trish Ward
of this letter - I agree with every word. Thank 6016
you
Jesus warned you: if you fail to produce the
504. Patrick Brennan fruits, the kingdom will be taken from you.
3195
Wake up. The torch is already being passed.
Margaret
506.
M.Coffey
81
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
502. francisca
May God's Spirit and truth be allowed to
guide us all and may we all be able to respond
in love and in knowledge that God will
4606
continue to challenge us till we are truly
living out GOD’S wisdom.
495. Andrew Buchan
Significant change is desperately needed especially to keep our youth in the church
3109
I believe that the signs of these times include
the street demonstrations of people's desire
for real freedom and the need for a similar
491. Richard Walsh
4030
uprising concerning the effects of
globalization, consumerism and global
warming.
Rod and Pauline this letter touches on many of our concerns
490.
2622
Coady
with the church and we fully support it
Christy
I feel sad that I don't think the Pope will even
489.
5019
Markiewicz
read this. But it needs to be said anyway.
Andrzej
487.
Markiewicz
486.
Pamela & Peter
Hannan
485. Susan Dea
481.
Berenice &
Roscoe Folkard
Bernadette
Layton
Carmel & John
476.
Filewood
477.
475. Robyn Debnam
472. Jan Coleman
Let's not put a new patch into old fabric. If
faith renews us, we must also allow new
forms of the expression of faith.
5019
Endorsed wholeheartedly.
3150
Please investigate how our under 50;s can be
3165
welcomed into our Communities.
In total agreement with the sentiments
expressed.
2119
I fully endorse all comments in the letter
2606
We are members of St Thomas Aquinas
4311
Parish, St Lucia Brisbane
My heart and soul embedded in Christ deeply
4361
needs a positive answer to this letter.
So many different groups within the Church
who are increasingly disregarded by the
authoritarian hierarchy! Included here are
homosexuals who have been denigrated and
excluded from full participation in their
Church.
470. Maureen Stewart Glad to support this important petition
468.
Beverley
Stammers
Women should be allowed to be priests.
Priests should be allowed to marry
464. Elizabeth Jeffery A well voiced letter
3146
3184
3079
2478
82
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
458. Anne Mijch
May God bless you as you consider these
heartfelt pleas
I am completely in accord with all these
sentiments and dismayed at the lack of the
455. Glenys Ferguson
continuing apparent refusal of the Church to
listen to the voice of its followers.
3104
2582
Our church is supposed to be a listening
church as well as a teaching church. It is not
listening to the voice of the faithful people of
451. Angela Dupuche God. No wonder so many are walking away 3123
in despair, even in our 60's! Experience
makes me feel they'll be deaf to this petition,
too, but it's worth a last ditch try.
The Church is not an institution but the
443. Norbert Greulich community of its members. When will you
read the signs of the time?
Margaret
I am in complete agreement with the views
442.
LALCHERE
expressed in this letter.
429. keith wallace
428.
Brendan
Kennedy
423. Maurice Duke
422. Ken Heffernan
421. Helen Freris
420. Alan Jennings
419. Lynne Stagg
4350
6157
desperately worried abour church
0812
The sacrament of confirmation is where we
receive the gifts of the spirit, including the
gifts of leadership in the church. The spirit at
confirmation does not distinquish between
ACT 2612
male and female. Has the sacrament of
confirmation now become redundant or
superseded by the sacrament of Orders?
The letter sums up my thoughts precisely.
I fully support this petition, and pray that if
those reading it hear god's voice, harden not
their hearts.
I strongly support a non heirachial church
2602
2428
3183
6050
2600
414. Diana Fraser
I agree wholeheartedly and fully support this
4350
petition
410. Peter van Lint
I most fully support the attached petition and
look forward to the day when my grand
3103
children will look upon the life of Jesus as
their guiding light
406. Ljiljana Argy
AMEN!
2617
83
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
395.
Jeffrey L.
Calligan
Heartily endorse this.
This petition addresses some of the major
issues affecting the Catholic Church in
Australia (and elsewhere). However, there is a
Howard Michael number of other issues that it could have
392.
James Stagg
addressed, such as: why does the Catholic
hierarchy not seem to realise that its actions
of the last few decades are going a long way
to killing the church off, stone cold dead?
When I inquired about becoming a priest in
my own Canberra and Goulburn Diocese the
Priest responsible for priest recruitment, at St
Assoc Prof.Lea
391.
Christopher & St Peter Chanel’s Parish
Malluf
suggested that I join the Anglican Church and
become a Vicar.. This when I thought that my
Catholic Church was short of priests.
The faithful will be more impressed by
390. Terry Bennett
accountability than infallibility.
I fully agree with this letter. The Catholic
Church needs to allow members to become
Theresia
involved in discussions about issues
389.
Ratzinger
concerning people. The Catholic Church is
getting less and less relevant to today's
congregation.
382. Phoebe Basson
The relevance of the Church depends on
recognition of social change and
corresponding social needs.
381. Peter Zillman
3144
2600
2600
4573
2903
2030
4510
Refer Sensus Fidelium and Blessed John
Henry Newman
The promises of Vatican II have withered on
379. Merran Martin the vine. We need less focus on "authoritative
institution" and more on"following Christ".
378. Elizabeth Sibson Please listen with open mind and heart
With respect, I believe that these reforms are
377. Margaret Hilder long overdue, and will bring the church closer
to the authentic teachings of Jesus Christ.
380. Peter Meury
2262
2617
3825
2790
370. Brian Nunn
respectful but it should've been sent 30 years
3044
ago
368. Bernadette Wells
Priests should be allowed to marry and be
women also
3505
84
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
The loss of a good bishop like Bishop Morris
364. Noelene Bangel sadens me, especially when we are so short of 2745
good priests.
363. Christine Knight I support the contents of this petition
3505
358. Rob Brian
"Listen, anyone who has ears!" [Matthew
13:9]
355. Michael Ryan
Congratulations for stating so clearly what are
3104
fundamental issues that must be addressed
2030
This is a good way to allow the People of God
to express their sadness at the present
governance of the Church. I endorse the
criticism of the overwhelming legalistic and
353. Bryan Docherty paternalistic approach taken to decision
2605
making. We should all pray that some notice
will be taken of this petition and that the
Spirit will be allowed to whirl and flow where
it will.
352. marie docherty good letter
2605
350. Barbara Brannan Don't forget, "people are the church."
for heaven's sake - if for nothing else - this
349. Janet Uhr
time, listen,
2087
2612
I am reminded of Card. Newman's comments
critical of the excesses on the par of Card.
Manning, his contemporary, about the
346. Rod Pitts
3133
interpretation of the new teaching on
infallibility - rather different to what was
actually decided at Vat I.
345. Martin Brannan Listen to the people of the church.
2087
If this controlling clericalism doesn't stop
344. Patrick Durack there will be fewer and fewer people in the
6014
pews.
340. Christine Page
I wholeheartedly endorse the comments made
in the letter. The Archbishop of Canberra
Goulburn Mark Coleridge is obviously guilty
of exacerbating the alienation the letter refers
2605
to as he apparently "won't circulate the open
letter or encourge its circulation" Canberra
Times 9/7/11 . How controlling of him! A
BAD decision Archbishop!
336. Imelda Enders
a pleasing positie move for the good of the
church in Adelaide and elsewhere
Very true!
334. Peter F. Ryan
May the Australian Church follow Vatican II: 3021
337. John Fanning
5052
2548
85
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
Condemn church legalism, clericalism and
triumphalism, though the last is already
replaced with shame to most people.
332. Jill Kane
331. John Halliday
329. George Ripon
327.
Gabriel C J
Lomas
The people are the Church. Please listen to
3135
them
The good people amongst us are being driven
3183
out
We wait in joyful hope
3166
This petition illustrates very clearly our need
to examnine and to label, as far as possible,
2082
the different uses to which we put the word
'church'.,
322. James Ingram
A timely initiative. Congratulations
2603
318.
317.
315.
314.
Address these issues or face collapse
Excellent letter
complete agreement
please hear us
2612
2612
2233
3350
don't know what this
is
Tom Hayes
Moira Hayes
Judith Ryan
cynthia wright
pamela
313.
mecsweeney
312. Jennifer Keene
311. Jill Peck
305. Peter Crombie
304.
Mary Coloe
pbvm
300. Domenica Leone
294.
Sheila D.
Hoogland
it is time we are recognised as mature adults
I fully support this petition and express my
disappointment that the Catholic Church will 2582
not even allow discussion of important issues.
An excellent, thoughtful letter. "Right on the
4558
money".
I support the expression of this hope for a
future Catholic Church.
We need a consultative and accountable
Church community.
4053
3084
The people are the "Church"! Our voices will
3185
be heard!
We NEED a response to this!
I, too, am concerned about the number of
ways the leadership in the church is denying
292. Patricia Grundy so much that was opened up at Vatican II
which gave so much life to those who desire
fidelity to Christ.
Jesus, and his teachings seem pushed to the
back row by the clerics. He ought be the
291. Lois Walker
centre, and the light that enlivens us and the
Church. Bring back Jesus, I say!
5073
4035
3196
86
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
287.
Stella Maree
Gleeson SGS
please God, our views will be discerned
3083
282. Philip Boon
Pastors of Our Church, please, please, please
6156
just listen and be.
280. Stephen D
Oh yet we trust that somehow, good shall be
the final goal of ill....
4184
268.
Lawrence
Nemer, SVD
Whatever happened to collegiality which so
excited those of us who were ministering
already at the time of Vatican II?
3128
261.
Edmund A
Powell
I Agree!!
2478
260. Norma Marot
259. Francis Brown
253.
If you want 'to consolidate what we've
got'(Cardinal Pell) listen to your faithful
people of God or you will lose us.
I am devestated that the Church I have lived
and worked for all of my life is now letting
me down.
Bridgid Hannah
I fully support the contents of the letter
Medder
3021
2208
5051
251. Michael Bennett Subsidiarity would be a good start
totally in agreement with sentiments
250. Tara Bell
expressed
4075
248. Robert Moore
4215
247. Ruth Trevaks
This is urgent and essential!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I fully endorse the concerns raised and
recommendations made in the Open Letter.
3184
3183
245. Brian Coyne
An excellently worded petition which I
support wholeheartedly.
239. Marie Bonne
I realised at a funeral I attended recently that
if I die as an old person there will be no-one
in my family attending who could join in the
3550
prayers of the Mass. It's really time for action.
A whole gereration have lost contact with the
Church.
237. Peter J Ryan
Brilliant. I endorse wholeheartedly.
233. Sarah James
I would like to see married and women priests 3002
I do not believe 'they' have enough caritas to
listen and respond to this petition. there is
2537
nothing Christlike about the heirarachy of the
Catholic Church
232. Tony Carroll
2778
3.350
87
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
227. Patricia Taylor
223.
Rosemary
Grundy
"God forbid that I should separate body and
spirit when God has made them a unity.
Indeed we owe God the homage of our whole
3095
person; body and spirit together"...Cloud of
Unknowing: So much for 'and with your
spirit!!'
I am heartened by the conern, commitment
and honest communcation to Pope Benedict
XVI. It is indeed distressing to know many
people, so many of them who are young,
disillusioned by and disaffecte from the
4304
Chuch. The call of the Church is to promote
the Gospel. Instead, it seems more engaged
with protecting its instituitonal structures
from changes that would provide it with a
truly realistic understanding of today's world.
what a sad day that we need to petition our
Pastors to see us as the people of God.
St Paul in Gal.5-1 tells us that Jesus came to
set us free and I believe that freedom is the
essential floor without which none of the
217. Andrerw Adams
Christian virtues of love, justice peace etc
have space on which to dance. This letter I
believe begs for that freedom.
214. Ellen Smiddy
I agree with the statement
218. Glenys Yeoman
212. Bernadine Kelly The Church needs to change or die.
630
2290
3087
3564
Patrick Terence
206.
Tierney
Belatedly I am becoming more informed and
more concerned about what is happening to 5051
our church.
Bernadette
McPhee
We are the Church. The Holy Spirit is calling
for major reform and renewal through us. The
Bishops of Australia and the Bishop of Rome
have responsiblities to follow in the footsteps
of Jesus. Jesus was strong, courageous,
3150
compassionate, inclusive, non-judgemental,
and supported the most vulnerable with love
and seeking justice for all. He was not
thwarted by boundaries or medival rules and
regualtions.
202.
Patrick &
201. Rosemary
McArdle
We endorse the comments contained in this
letter
2795
196. Patricia Nunan
I agree with the sentiments expressed
3039
88
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
193.
Bernadette
Fleming
189. Stephanie Kent
187.
Rose Marie
Crowe
185. Terry Burke
184.
Trevor
CORCORAN
163. Paula Tamblyn
157. Ken Haddock
I fully support this letter
4012
Sometimes I wonder 'is God with us or
against us?' We have prayed and worked for
change for so long now!
3350
We are on the brink of forging a renewed
vision of church, based on the principles
given us by Jesus. "Where two or three agree,
in my name, it will be done." This is his
3690
definition of collegiality, which unleashes the
power of the Holy Spirit to bring peace to the
world. Let us speak more of love and respect
and less of domination and control.
In addition to the above comments - It would
be heartening if a member of the senior
2062
heirarchy spoke out in protest re the treatment
of refugees.
Please allow the Spirit to work through the
3087
people of GOD, His church
As a woman of 72 I have journeyed with the
church through many changes. I rejoiced in
the Second Vatican council and now despair
that we are once again being more concerned 2440
with which word we should use liturgically
than addressing the moral and social justice
challenges of the 21C . Sad
I am sure if the Church leaders took a positive
attitude to this letter it could be the start of a
movement for renewal of the Church in
Australia. Unfortunately I think our present 3108
leadership of the Church in Australia would
mostly be incapable of thinking outside the
box.
Act before it is too late, remove yourselves
from the ivory tower and look around, speak
151. Marilyn Stenson and take notice of "ordinary" people.
Remember we all will be judged on our
actions, or lack there of.
2577
149. paul carlin
I respectfully and strongly support this
petition
146. Mary Conlan
145. Therese Power
144. Sharn Griffin
It's our Church too!!! Would you believe it? 3125
Reform needed
3044
As one of the adult children of Catholics, who 0800
3078
89
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
143. John Goold
grew up Catholic, and then moved away from
the Church because of it's lack of relevance to
my life - I agree with this letter so much. I
would like to stress I still believe. I just don't
feel like the Church is able to help me in my
expression of spirituality because in my
experience there has been no connection, no
dialogue, no understanding and no change. I
know I am not the only one. Of the children
who went to my Catholic school only a very
small percentage have any interaction with the
Church - and then it's only the occaisonal
Easter or Christmas Mass.
Refreshing that someone has had the courage
3109
to echo our concerns.
136. Sue Loughnan
135. Mary Murray
'We' are the church
Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful...
3192
2594 NSW
128. Ian Waters
Here is the Church and Here is the Steeple
open the doors and Listen to the People
3109
124. christine lester
my entire family and my husbands entire
family have left the church because of exactly
what you describe in this open letter. And the
2230
new young members of our families will
definitely not be attending Mass for the same
reasons
122. Geoffrey Ray
Totally support petition. Major rethinks
needed on attitudes to Laity
119.
Kathleen
Cudmore
117. Val Strantzen
NSW 2594
"...the Church needs...the contribution of all
Christians ... Thus the Holy Spirit can use the
humblest to enlighten...those in the highest
2641
positions". (Catechism of the Catholic Church
2038)
Agree wholeheartedly with all sentiments and
3083
would like urgent action
114.
Jenny and Henry
We are fully supportive of this letter
Burger
3002
111.
Kathleen
Thomas
3690
109. Cathy Taggart
108. pat cudmore
I fully support the views expressed in this
letter
Doesn't the Holy Spirit work through ordinary
5108
people too?
Excellent initiative! If change is not
2577
forthcoming who will take up the cause for
90
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
our beloved church when we are in heaven.
Our children and grandchildren are, at this
point in time, looking elsewhere to have their
spirituality nourished.These are the facts and
should be considered seriously. We good and
faithful servants want and need our young
people to know the person of Jesus. We can't
just do it on our own, we need support. As the
universal church great emphasis is needed on,
relevant cultural and social issues, bringing
our church into the 21st century.
Cecilia Merrigan I wholeheartedly concur with the contents of
107.
csb
this letter.
We need leaders in the Church whose minds
106. David Maguire are not closed to the Spirit speaking through
the laity.
The Church is the people. The institution's
role is to serve the people, and it must
105. John Garrett
facillitate, not obstruct, the people's
communion with God.
read well the signs and faithfully interpret
104. Anthony White
them
3564
6230
2063
4574
99.
Chris Cudmore
Like most large institutions, the Catholic
Church asserts control and authority, not
wishing to be assailed internally or externally.
However, the Church must be more than just
another institution. It's genesis from Jesus
demands that it be a beacon in the proper
2577
conduct of its business with members and
society generally. This is a task not
necessarily demanded of other institutions,
but imperative for the Catholic Church's
integrity.
97.
Adrian le Gras
This is the first time ANYBODY has asked
me what I thought about the move away from 2233
the light
95.
frank swan
the encouragement of ideas and open
discussion of issues are signs of the vibrant
and healthy organisation which we must
aspire to be.
3111
90.
KAY CAREY
Same thing for the Church in the USA as
well!!!
97008 -- OREGON,
USA
Tony Steel
Our church must listen for the Sensus
Fidelium. A small group of very vocal
reactionary catholics is not the sensus
2230
87.
91
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
86.
84.
83.
82.
Regina Ioane
Donald
I hope and pray that our leaders will listen
Humphrey
Joan Winter OP Yes! Yes! Yes!
annette & les
heartfelt agreement
milross
80.
Tony Lawless
70.
Tom Lee
64.
61.
58.
57.
55.
54.
52.
50.
49.
48.
44.
43.
42.
41.
40.
39.
fidelium. The Spirtit of God spoke strongly
through the Bishops at Vatican II and through
its reception by the vast majority of believers.
Why does the leadership of the Church pander
to a vocal but joyless group of grumpy people
who seek to restore the Church of the 16th
century?
Totally support the cause
3141
Bishops, please read carefully and act now.
I agree with all of the above
I thoroughly endorse the sentiments
Margaret Hicks
expressed.
Trish McAvaney I fully endorse this initiative
The people have experiences that those in
Claude
authority do not know. The people need to be
Mostowik msc listened as they have insights from the bottom
rung and things look different from there
Helen
You have been made aware many times about
Oxenburghthese issues, please will you take these
Lowe
petitions seriously!
Maureen Marie
Fitt
Brian John Fitt
Fully support
I sign and endorse
The Church must no longer hide behind
John Lattin
Roman Conservatism
I've been saying this sort of thing for a long
Frank Martin PE
time
Anne O'Brien
Strongly agree
A much needed expression of long held
Jack McCaffrie
frustration
Richard Quilty I strongly support the petiton
Shirley Bolton May the Holy Spirit guide us all
bill adkins
May the Gospel Jesus hear his people's pain
I agree with and support the contents of this
Christa Buckley letter. I am sure that it reflects the feling of
may Catholics struggling with their faith.
My Prayer is that the Church Hierarchy will
David Buckley
have the courtesy to respond to this letter.
Gregory S. Poole If it is to have any relevance, and value, to the
2233
3124
2534
3777
NW8 8SJ
2560
3147
2043
6330
3079
3079
2060
3039
3039
2904
2107
5044
5068
2785
2785
2033
92
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
ADM, DLSM,
LLM, M.Div,
GradDip Arts
36.
Peter Adkins
35.
John Lazzari
34.
Clare Walsh
33.
Gerard Walsh
32.
31.
Ray Bongiorno
Peter Turpin
Anne-Marie
Bland
28.
26.
24.
23.
22.
21.
19.
18.
15.
13.
7.
Anthony Bland
world, OUR church simply must be born
again ... the Spirit needs to be invited back
in(!)
The hierarachy of the Church must accept a
greater role for the laity, in the decision
making and direction of the Church.
The Catholic Church must truly embody the
authentic teachings of Jesus Christ both at law
and in spirit to reach and minister to His
people in a way that truly addresses the
human condition world wide
I agree strongly with this letter.
The Church is the People of God and must
listen to the pilgrims on the journey.
Strongly agree
Totally agree
I strongly concur with the contents of the
letter.
We are all members of the priestood of the
faith.We seek your embrace not alienation.
The church is not listening to its people. It has
Jim Spence
disenfranchised the younger generation and is
thus withering on the vine.
May each of us have the chance to become
Catherine Collins
truly alive in Christ within a renewed Church
We have no other choice but to express our
Brian F Kennedy
reflections.
The Church needs modern leadership and not
Brian Rathborne
rule
Cardinal Kasper wrote recently: "The
Church's real problem today is its lack of
communication". The Second Vatican
Council was "a compass for the Church in the
third millennium"; and the Church must
Bruce Duncan
replace its "one-sided authoritativeCSsR
hierarchical" system of communication with a
"dialogical and sisterly" one. I (BD) would
put this is terms of the need to develop new
forms of participation in the Church so that
responsibility is truly shared appropriately.
A Diocesan Synod is a much needed first
John Edwards
step.
The present Church is not meeting the needs
Peter Edwards
of modern Catholics
Frank Purcell
A great summary of the crisis.
frank burke
refects the hopes and desires of many
3129
3109
2068
2068
3083
3123
2785
2059
3106
3140
3184
2065
3101
2112
2112
3630
3109
93
Comments excerpted from Open Letter to the Australian Bishops and the Pope to 4 Sep. 2011
5.
4.
3.
2.
catholics
Laurien
We need a Church that will attract back our
Johnstone
younger generation.
Peter Johnstone The Church must listen to its people.
Hopefully the voices of those concerned with
the current state of the institutional Church
Emmy Silvius
will be heard and that serious action will be
taken on ALL the proposals in this petition
An important initiative for the Church in
Peter Wilkinson
Australia
3109
3109
3133
3107
94