Ghosn, Margaret In the process leading up to the first Maronite diocesan assembly, a survey was sent to all Maronite parishes and schools in order to provide valuable feedback on what issues were foremost in the minds of the people. This was then to form the basis for the diocesan assembly to be held 12-14 April 2018. The survey sought to ascertain the demographics of those who participated, and parish attendance patterns and participation at parish and diocesan levels. It assessed (...) social services that were accessed, youth needs and family concerns, and offered opportunities for any further feedback. This article examines the responses of the survey and what they reveal about Maronite parishes across Australia, their areas of strength and areas needing improvement, the role of committees, and the needs and vision of the parishioners. (shrink)

Ghosn, Margaret Whether we acknowledge a God who sees all, or reject a God of history, there is meaning to be sought in the calamities of life. The fundamental question begins not with denying God, but with challenging the image of God. I argue for a God of all, despite evidence to the contrary, including prolific atheist arguments, the sweeping invasion of Islamic extremism, and apathetic attitudes of Christians today, and I do this firstly through a rebuttal of atheist arguments, (...) particularly in regard to morality and the role of science. Secondly, I use the book of Job as a reference point to discuss the God challenge, with a focus on human responsibility and the place of humans in the world. I propose that humans see the world evolving with purpose and that, in today's society, there is a God calling us to respond with conscious awareness. (shrink)