Dear Friends

In a short time I will be finishing work in the Office for the Participation of Women.  The last five years have been an extraordinary experience for me.  I have been inspired and energised by the contribution women make to the Church throughout Australia.  I have worked with women and men in towns and cities from Geraldton to Townsville and am constantly amazed by the life-giving ways people are involved in the life and mission of the Church.

It has been a privilege to work with many of you on projects and in planning gatherings in your local areas.  I am particularly grateful to the diocesan contacts for women who have supported and brought to life national ideas, projects and resources.  Without you these initiatives would still be sitting on a shelf!  Your dedication to continuing to promote, recognise and celebrate the contribution of women is appreciated.  Thank you for your hospitality and generosity when I have been in your home town.  What wonderful memories I am taking with me!

The Council for Australian Catholic Women continues to imagine new ways of ensuring the contribution of women is recognised and valued.  It has been a pleasure to work with the past and present members of this Council.  Their wisdom, guidance and expertise has ensured that the dignity and contribution of women is a focal point in the work of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference.

As part of my role I have worked closely with the members of the Bishops Commission for Church Ministry.  The members of this commission have been most generous in their support of my work.  I have developed a deep admiration for their commitment and dedication to their ministry.  Special thanks must go to my direct supervisors, Bishop Michael Malone and Bishop Brian Heenan; fabulous men who have managed to juggle busy dioceses and the work of the Commission.  To Bishop Comensoli, Bishop Bianchini, Bishop Finnigan, Bishop Morris and Bishop Sproxton please accept my sincere thanks for your guidance and genuine commitment to promoting the participation of women in the Church.

The contribution of women to the life and mission of the church is enormous.  This needs to be recognised, valued and upheld for the life of the church to be complete.  Women’s contribution to governance and decision making is essential in fully reflecting the trinity within the life of the Church.   A church – in all its guises - that is ready to harness the gifts of women and men will be a church that is creative, inclusive, welcoming and vibrant.  I look forward to this continuing to flourish and unfold into the future.  Thank you for your support throughout my time in this role.  At times it has been challenging and I have been buoyed by your affirmation and encouragement.  I wish you well in your future endeavours and look forward to opportunities of our paths crossing again sometime soon.

My sincere thanks and best wishes to you all,

Kimberly Davis