About the Retreat

Not a Conference or an Assembly, the 2026 Retreat is a time to pray, reflect and grow your Faith and Spirituality.

29 November – 2 December 2026 | Mercure Alice Springs

In 1986, St Pope John Paul II stood in Alice Springs and told Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples that the Church would not be fully herself until their gifts were received and celebrated. Forty years on, to the day, NATSICC invites Delegates from across the Country to gather again in Alice Springs — not for a Conference, but for a Retreat of prayer, reflection and renewal.

Grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic identity, the Retreat brings together Community Delegates, NATSICC Councillors and guests for a National Anniversary Mass, shared yarning, and a Program exploring what has changed since 1986, what still calls the Church to grow, and how First Nations Catholics continue to shape her future.

Spiritual Director: Fr Steve Fletcher MGL Aboriginal Spirituality: Kelly Humphrey (ACU)

Presenters: Bishop Tim Norton SVD, Dr. Lisa Buxton, and NATSICC Council members

Sunday 29 November — Arrival & 40th Anniversary Mass Delegates arrive and register at the Mercure. The Retreat begins with the 40th Anniversary Mass at OLSH Parish, marking the exact anniversary of St Pope John Paul II's Address, followed by a Community dinner.

Monday 30 November — Retreat Day 1: Head A day of teaching and reflection, opening with St Pope John Paul II's original Address and moving through sessions on Aboriginal Spirituality, Faith Formation and Discernment. The day closes with Mass and evening prayer.

Tuesday 1 December — Retreat Day 2: Heart & Hands Beginning with Mass, the day turns to lived experience and Mission — youth perspectives, Aboriginal and Catholic reflections on St Pope John Paul II's Words, Ecological Stations of the Cross, and a Session looking at where the Church goes from here. The evening includes a Healing Liturgy and time for Reconciliation.

Wednesday 2 December — Closing & Departure A final Mass and Yarning Circles give Delegates space to reflect on the Retreat together before a closing wrap-up, farewell lunch and departure.

Harvest Journeys have organised a Post Retreat Pilgrimage (at an additional cost payable directly to Harvest Journeys) from 2/12 - 4/12. Information and bookings at https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/PV2684

Contact the host of Still Standing, Still Strong in Christ! - 2026 NATSICC Retreat