Rita, Ricky and Richard …. It wasn’t intentional, but the Pilgrims of Hope: Transformed through Sacrament and Song conference will bring together three incredible keynote speakers who will likely resonate with their rigorous revelations about rites, ritual and rhythm.
Too much?
Well, forgive us if we reiterate: We’re on a rhythmic roll of the “Rs”!
This October 1 to 3, Adelaide will host a remarkable gathering of liturgical leaders, musicians, and educators with keynote speakers Rita Ferrone, Fr Ricky Manalo CSP, and Fr Richard Leonard SJ, and we cannot resist telling you all about these renowned leaders in liturgy, music and theology.
Jointly organised by the Australian Pastoral Musicians Network (APMN) and the National Liturgical Council (NLC) the Pilgrims of Hope: Transformed through Sacrament and Song conference responds to Pope Francis’ call to become “tireless cultivators of the Gospel” by focusing on the liturgy as the “source and summit” of Christian life.
The conference offers a rich program designed to refresh ministries and reimagine worship.
Through 50+ workshops-spanning liturgical art, sacramental ministry, choral leadership, and youth engagement-delegates will receive practical tools to reinvigorate parish and school communities.
Sessions on chant, organ, composition, and intercultural worship will refresh musicians and liturgists alike, while renewed emphasis on sacred architecture and ritual invites reimagining physical and spiritual spaces.
Rita Ferrone, award-winning liturgical theologian, underscores this theme: “Our pilgrimage of hope reconnects us to the gift of the liturgy. It’s not just ritual-it’s how we rediscover God’s presence in our communities”
Fr Ricky Manalo CSP, a Filipino-American composer and theologian, shares how his roots in devotional music and intercultural ministry reinforce the universal call to praise:
“My pilgrimage began with a household resounding with faith and song. Liturgy must respond to the signs of the times, blending tradition and creativity”.
His compositions, celebrated worldwide, exemplify how music reveals divine grace across cultures
Fr Richard Leonard SJ, bestselling author and pastor, focuses on liturgy’s radical potential to evangelise.
“Baptisms, weddings, and funerals are ripe moments to reawaken faith. When we ritualise love and loss with authenticity, we remove barriers to God”.
His workshops will equip delegates to reclaim sacraments as encounters with hope.
The conference’s resounding theme- “Transformed through Sacrament and Song”-invites delegates to reflect on how worship resonates beyond church walls.
From school choirs to parish councils, attendees will rehearse ways to radiate the Gospel through music and ritual.
The highlight Mass at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, led by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan, will reunite participants in a resplendent celebration of unity.
Michael Mangan, APMN chair, emphasises inclusivity.
“Whether you’re a cantor, composer, or catechist, this event reaffirms your role in God’s mission. We’re rallying a community of resolute pilgrims”.
Running from 1–3 October at Adelaide’s Hilton Hotel, the conference is a rare opportunity to reconnect with 500+ liturgists, educators, and artists from Australia and New Zealand.
Rita Ferrone sums it up: “Hope isn’t passive-it’s the rhythm of a Church in motion. Together, we’ll rekindle the joy of being God’s pilgrims”.
Visit pilgrimsofhope.com.au to reserve your place in this transformative gathering.
Our registration early bird rate has been extended to May 31, so get in before then to secure a great price!
Let the Three “Rs” renew your ministry, reveal fresh horizons, and resonate with a song of hope.