The 12th European Assembly of Lay Dominican Fraternities took place at Maynooth in Ireland at the beginning of August.
Representatives from the provinces of Europe came together for several days of discussion, prayer, community and the election of the new European Council. We also had a day out to Kilkenny, where the Prior Provincial of Ireland, fr. John Harris OP, joined us for Mass at the Black Abbey, the oldest Dominican church in Ireland.
The keynote speaker was fr. Paul Murray OP. He spoke about the overall theme of the Assembly – ‘Witnesses to the Truth, Prophets of Hope in a changing world’.
During the event we discussed:
- the Ratio Formationes: fr. Vivial Boland OP shared his thoughts on the document which was issued last year. It sets out the approach which Lay Dominican fraternities should follow in providing on-going formation for people in our fraternities, and fr. Vivian highlighted that it is far more than a list of subjects to study.
- Amendments to the statutes of the Assembly
- Improving communication
We also elected a new European Council, for the next 4 years. Catherine Wallis-Hughes from London Fraternity was elected on to the council, and she will serve as the secretary.
