BMCC Amalgamation - Emmaus Parish
Update 7 – Petitioning Archbishop Comensoli
Over the last three months we have been providing updates in relation to the proposed amalgamation of the parishes of Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community into a new single parish. Feedback has been sought via the Parish Amalgamation page on our parish website, via the three parish meetings held across our parishes and via formal and informal conversations and meetings with various committees across our parishes and schools. Feedback has been received from over one hundred parishioners. Some of these have provided feedback on more than one aspect of the amalgamation. This means we have a very rich set of data in relation to the stance that parishioners have towards amalgamation. A summary of that data was provided in Update 6 (see below).
It is clear from these months of feedback that the majority of our parishioners are in favour of us proceeding with amalgamation. At the same time, we are very aware that there are concerns in relation to ensuring that no one gets left behind in the process. So, every effort will be made to continue to ensure that we are an inclusive and welcoming community.
Our next step will be to petition Archbishop Comensoli to create a new parish. Only the Bishop of a Diocese can dissolve parish boundaries and create a new parish. He will only do this when adequate preparation and consultation has taken place at the parish level. This coming week (19 May) I will be writing to Archbishop Comensoli and outlining the process that we have undertaken during these last few months and asking him to create the new Emmaus Parish. This letter will be supported by both Margaret Trainor, Chair of the Parishes Evangelisation Council and Claire Vitale, Chair of the Parishes Stewardship Council. The Archbishop needs to consult with his own advisors as well. He will take our parish petition to his Council of Priests and his College of Consultors. These are two of the consultative bodies that he needs to listen to prior to making any changes to parish boundaries.
Once having reviewed our request for amalgamation (including the feedback and the process that took place) and having listened to the advice of his consultative bodies, including Bishop Rene, Auxilary Bishop for the Northern Region of the Archdiocese and Fr Tony Kerin, Vicar General, the Archbishop will then be in the position to create our new parish. This will happen by creating a decree of amalgamation. The decree will be sent to our parishes and will need to be displayed in each of our Churches for one month. After that period the new parish will come into effect.
Thank you to all who have participated in the consultation phase during these last few months. If you wish to review the information that has been provided during these months please see all of the updates on this page.
I will continue to keep you up to date as the process of formal amalgamation proceeds.
Fr Brendan
Update 6: Parish Consultation on Amalgamation
What we heard
At the end of April three parish meetings were held, where parishioners were invited to listen, ask questions, and share their personal views in relation to the proposed parish amalgamation. Just under 100 people participated in these meetings.
At these meetings, I provided an overview of the background to the proposed amalgamation and the current pastoral reality of our parishes. Our Stewardship Coordinator, George Thomas, outlined the current financial situation, providing the end of year position for each of our parishes as of December 2025, the 2026 working budget, and the broader financial context. Parishioners were then invited to respond individually to four questions about amalgamation. These responses were carefully collated, coded, and analysed so that patterns and key themes could be clearly identified.
What parishioners are excited about
Many parishioners expressed genuine hope and optimism about amalgamation. Over half of responses highlighted excitement about parish renewal, new possibilities, and greater energy for mission. Opportunities for increased collaboration, a wider sense of community, and new friendships across parish boundaries were often mentioned. A similarly strong theme related to improved efficiency and sustainability, especially the more effective use of parish assets and administrative resources. Others valued the people involved in leading the process, expressing trust in both clergy and parish leadership, while some spoke positively about opportunities for evangelisation, discipleship, and a stronger public Catholic presence. A smaller number of parishioners indicated that they felt unsure or not excited at this stage, particularly where there were concerns about belonging or the future of individual churches.
What parishioners are worried about
Parishioners were also very clear about their concerns, and these were thoughtful and wide-ranging. The most frequently expressed worry related to the possible loss of parish identity - including local traditions, culture, and a sense of having one’s voice heard. Some people also raised concerns about how parishioners are engaged in the process, including communication, transparency, and representation. Other important themes included care for particular groups within our community such as elderly parishioners, Italian‑speaking members, young people, and those on the margins, as well as the impact of potential changes to Mass times and pastoral availability. Parishioners also identified longer‑term questions about the governance of a larger parish, the effects on schools and the wider community, and how the Archdiocese will ultimately respond. A smaller number expressed concerns about potential conflict between churches, particularly around equality, values, and financial priorities.
What parishioners want to know more about
Even with substantial information already shared through meetings and parish communications, many parishioners indicated a desire for ongoing updates. The most common request was for regular communication and progress reports about planning, decisions, and next steps. With a great appreciation for the f inancial reports some asked for more regular information about finances, property, and future master planning. Questions were also raised about how cultural, organisational, and liturgical change will be managed respectfully, and how the amalgamated parish will remain viable and sustainable over time, especially in supporting youth, evangelisation, and pastoral life. Only a small number of responses focused specifically on the timeline, suggesting that process and clarity matter more than speed.
Overall stance
When asked directly where they stood, most parishioners indicated a positive openness to amalgamation. Over six in ten respondents expressed support, seeing it as consistent with the mission of the Church. Others were willing but unsure, often expressing a mix of hope and sadness. A smaller number were opposed, with concerns centred on identity, process, and leadership.
Moving forward together
This consultation has been a valuable expression of synodality - listening carefully to the lived experience, hopes, and concerns of our community. All responses have been received respectfully and will continue to inform the discernment of the Evangelisation Council and parish leadership. Thank you to everyone who participated so thoughtfully. Your voice truly matters, and we remain committed to transparent communication as we continue this journey together. If you would like to add further feedback or engage with the process of amalgamation please visit the amalgamation page of our parish website or make contact with one of our priests or members of our parish Evangelisation Council.
CONSULTATION MEETINGS
All parishioners are invited to attend one of three consultation meetings in relation to the proposed amalgamation of Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community into a single new Parish. The meetings will take place on the following day at the locations indicated.
Sunday 26 April at 2.00 pm at St Fidelis’ School Hall, 49 Clarendon Street, Moreland
Tuesday 28 April at 7.00 pm at St Joseph’s Church, 183 Hope Street, West Brunswick
Wednesday 29 April at 7.00 pm at St Ambrose Community Centre, 287 Sydney Road, Brunswick
UPDATE 5: MASTER PLAN FOR BMCC
This update of the proposed BMCC amalgamation focusses on the physical assets of our parishes. In 2025 our Parish Evangelisation Council established an Asset Utilisation Steering Group to assist in the future planning of the Parish. That group consists of the following parishioners from across BMCC: Howard McCorkell (Chair), Nicolette Cumbo, Cristian Biotto, Chaing Ning, Mathew Davey, Carl Foti, Fr Tien, Fr Brendan and Consultant, James Wilton. The group reports to both the Evangelisation Council and the Stewardship Council.
The Asset Utilisation Steering Group has been working on a Master Plan to guide how our buildings and resources will support our shared mission of worship, outreach, hospitality, education, and stewardship. The plan emphasises that bringing our parishes together will allow parish income from thanksgiving and the proposed sale and lease of parish owned properties to be utilised across the whole community, ensuring our assets serve people, not buildings.
A New Parish Centre at St Ambrose
Our Master Plan proposal is that St Ambrose will become the central hub of the parish. The site would be redeveloped to include a modern administration centre, meeting rooms, and a large gathering space for community events. Outdoor improvements will help open the parish administrative centre to the wider public, making it a welcoming and visible presence in Brunswick and beyond.
Strengthening Community Life Across All Churches
All four churches will continue to be used, with a focus on enhancing hospitality and connection. It is proposed that St Fidelis and St Joseph’s receive new or improved foyers that include hospitality spaces to support community life after Mass. The plan highlights the importance of ensuring that “our liturgical life flows into hospitality and community building.”
Supporting Outreach and Mission
The Our Lady Help of Christians site has been identified as a significant opportunity to expand youth engagement, with the potential of it becoming a youth hub in partnership with existing youth ministry in our local area.
Rationalising Properties to Support Ministry
The Steering Group has proposed that some parish owned residential properties that no longer support parish mission be sold. These have been identified as low return property investments. Funds released will be reinvested into ministry, facilities, and long‑term sustainability.
An amalgamated parish will allow for more flexibility in being able to direct the assets of our parishes towards the mission. It will remove unnecessary duplication of administrative and financial systems that are currently associated with running three separate financial and legal entities.
Please note the following dates for parish consultation on the process of amalgamation.
Sunday 26 April, St Fidelis – 2 PM
Tuesday 28 April, St Joseph’s – 7 PM
Wednesday 29 April, St Ambrose – 7 PM
Update 4: Proposed Name for our New Parish
Emmaus Parish, Merri-Bek
This week’s update is a proposal for a new name for the amalgamated parishes that make up Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community —St Ambrose & Our Lady Help of Christians (Brunswick & Brunswick East), St Fidelis (Moreland), and St Joseph’s (West Brunswick). Having reflected on the Scripture passage of the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus at our annual planning day, the Parish Evangelisation Council is proposing that we take up this name for our amalgamated parish. We invite parishioners to reflect on the proposed new name: Emmaus Parish, Merri‑bek.
The name Emmaus comes from the Gospel story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35). It is a story of encounter, companionship, and renewed hope. Jesus walks with the disciples, listens to them, opens the Scriptures, and is revealed in the breaking of the bread. This mirrors our own journey as we walk together into a new future—guided by Christ, united in Word and Eucharist.
The Emmaus story is also a model of mission. After meeting the risen Jesus, the disciples hurry to share the Good News. A parish named Emmaus expresses our desire to be a welcoming, listening, missionary community in Merri‑bek.
Adding Merri‑bek grounds us in our local civic and cultural identity. It reflects our commitment to serve the people of this region and to walk respectfully with its First Nations story.
It is important to note that while we are proposing a new name for the amalgamated BMCC parish, each of our Churches and Schools will retain their own name: St Joseph’s Church, Emmaus Parish, Merri-bek; St Fidelis Church, Emmaus Parish, Merri-bek, St Ambrose Church, Emmaus Parish Merri-bek, and Our Lady Help of Christians, Emmaus Parish, Merri-bek.
You are invited to share your thoughts on this proposed name as we prepare to petition the Archbishop for the formal establishment of the new parish. To provide your feedback please visit our parish website and go to the Building Stronger Partnership page where you will be able to provide your feedback.
You will also be able to give your feedback at the various Parish Meetings scheduled across our Parishes on Sunday afternoon April 26, and Tuesday and Wednesday evening, April 28 and 29.
Update 3: Frequently Asked Questions
Purpose and Vision
Q1. Why are our parishes proposing to amalgamate?
The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne has been amalgamating parishes in response to changing pastoral needs and shifts in church participation across Australia. More parishes and priests are required in Melbourne’s growth corridors, while inner‑city parishes need consolidation. Amalgamation will strengthen the long‑term viability and vitality of parish life.
Q2. Aren’t the BMCC parishes already amalgamated?
The three BMCC parishes have worked in partnership for six years, sharing priests, staff, and many ministries. However, each parish remains a separate legal entity with separate financial and administrative requirements. Amalgamation would unify them into one parish, streamlining administration and freeing time for mission.
Q3. What is the vision for the new parish?
We will continue implementing Opening Hearts, Opening Doors through key parish committees and working groups, guided by our established strategic plan.
Structure of the New Parish
Q4. Which parishes are involved?
St Ambrose, Brunswick & Our Lady Help of Christians Brunswick East (BBE), St Joseph’s West Brunswick, and St Fidelis, Moreland.
Q5. Who will lead the new parish?
Fr Brendan and Fr Tien will continue as parish priests and will be appointed by the Archbishop to the new parish. Advisory structures—including the Parish Evangelisation Council and Parish Stewardship Council—will continue according to Canon Law and Archdiocesan norms.
Q6. What happens to current parish staff?
All staff will transfer to the new parish entity. HR processes will ensure clarity, fairness, and continuity.
Q7. Will there be a single office and database?
Yes. Although we already have one office, we currently maintain three databases. These will be unified to improve efficiency, communication, and compliance.
Q8. How will parish finances be managed?
The new parish will have a single legal entity with a consolidated budget and bank account. The Parish Stewardship Council will continue to advise on financial matters.
Q9. Are there civil and legal steps involved?
Yes. These include establishing a single ABN and registering with the ACNC and ATO. These steps will be undertaken with Archdiocesan guidance and legal support.
Churches, Sacraments, and Ministries
Q10. What will happen to our churches?
Each church will continue operating under its current name.
There are no short‑ or medium‑term plans to close or repurpose church buildings.
Long‑term decisions will consider attendance and usage.
Any change of use would require consultation.
Q11. Will Mass times change?
No changes to Mass times are planned as part of amalgamation. However, long‑term scheduling will reflect attendance levels and priest availability. A Sunday Mass with fewer than thirty attendees may not remain viable where alternatives are nearby.
Q12. What about sacraments (Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals)?
Sacraments will continue to be celebrated across all churches. Bookings are already streamlined through the parish office while respecting local customs and pastoral needs.
Q13. What about our schools?
Our three schools will continue operating as they do now. Each remains an important part of parish life and will continue to be governed by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS).
Buildings and Maintenance
Q14. What happens to parish buildings and maintenance?
BMCC has been developing a Master Plan for its buildings over the past year. Priorities will be communicated as part of the amalgamation process.
Timeline and Process
Q15. What is the proposed timeline?
Consultation period: mid‑February to June.
Weekly updates will be provided to parishioners.
Parish meetings:
Sunday 26 April – St Fidelis
Tuesday 28 April – St Joseph
Wednesday 29 April – St Ambrose
Parishioners may attend the session that suits them best.
Q16. What happens after the consultation?
The parish will write to the Archbishop requesting the establishment of a new parish. Only the Archbishop can change boundaries and establish new entities. He will consult the Council of Priests and the College of Consultors. If satisfied, he will issue the Decree of Amalgamation, expected around July.
Communication and Participation
Q17. How will parishioners be kept informed?
Regular updates will be provided through the weekly newsletter and the parish website. A dedicated page - Building Stronger Partnerships - is updated each week.
Q18. How can parishioners give feedback?
Feedback can be provided anytime via the parish website under Building Stronger Partnerships.
Q19. What can parishioners do now?
Pray for the process, participate in consultation, volunteer skills, and help shape a united, missionary parish.
Update 2: The history of BMCC
Building Stronger Partnerships: Update 2
There is nothing like a lesson from history to throw light on the present. This is no less true when it comes to looking at the future of our Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community. Last week I announced that our Parish Evangelisation Council and Stewardship Council had recommended to me that we move to the amalgamation of our three parishes. Looking back, it is clear that this will not be the first time that BMCC has operated as a single parish!
In 1839 the very few Catholic families in Brunswick, mostly poor Irish immigrants, had to travel into Melbourne for Mass in a small weatherboard chapel built on the site that is now St Francis.
The first Bishop of Melbourne, James Goold, broke ground for many future parishes. In 1850 he laid the foundation stone for St Paul’s Church in Pentridge (later to be named Coburg). This would be the closest parish church for the Brunswick -Moreland residents for the next 18 years or more. It was not until 1869 that a separate Parish was established on Sydney Road on land donated by the wealthy Irishman, Michael Dawson. In 1873 the new parish of St Ambrose took in all the territory (and more) that we know today as the Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community. This was the situation right up until 1911. Over the following decades, Brunswick East (1911), West Brunswick (1913) and Moreland (1927) each formed new parishes as the Catholic population expanded.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and the local communities responded to the needs of the time and organised themselves into appropriate parish groupings that met those needs.
The needs of our parish communities have changed again. The new population growth corridors are in the outer Western and Northern regions of Melbourne. It is there that a new generation of Catholics is arriving, new Churches are needed and that Priests are assigned to serve these new and growing communities. In the Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community, the needs are different. In many ways parishes in this part of Melbourne need to consolidate. The Parishes of St Ambrose and Our Lady Help of Christians have already amalgamated into a single parish to form the Brunswick and Brunswick East Parish. In 2020 the newly formed BBE Parish partnered with West Brunswick and Moreland Parishes to create the Brunswick Moreland Catholic Community.
We are proposing that in 2026 our three parishes now formally amalgamate into a new single new parish. This will take us back to the situation that existed between 1873 and 1911. In a sense it is like a reunification. The good news is that our new parish already has a wonderful legacy of beautiful Churches, Schools and Halls – something of which our newer parishes can only dream.
This week we are particularly interested in any of your feedback or stories that you may have in relation to the history of the Catholic Church in Brunswick-Moreland.
Update 1: The Proposal that BMCC parishes amalgamate into a single parish
Our BMCC parishes are entering an exciting new stage in strengthening our partnership. Following the recommendation of our Parish Evangelisation Council and Stewardship Council, we are beginning the process toward formally amalgamating our three parishes into a single parish entity. This reflects the way we have already been working together for several years, supported by shared committees in Education, Outreach, Worship and Hospitality. Over the coming months, we will communicate, consult and invite feedback through newsletters, online updates and parish meetings. Together, we will create a renewed vision and mission for our future as we implement the BMCC Strategy Plan: Opening Hearts, Opening Doors.
What is your initial response to the amalgamation proposal?
