Still Standing,
Still Strong in Christ!
In 2026, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic leaders, and friends, from across Australia will gather in Alice Springs for a national retreat marking the 40th Anniversary of the historic address of Pope John Paul II to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in 1986.
This landmark moment, delivered during the Pope’s visit to Alice Springs, remains one of the most significant affirmations of First Nations culture, spirituality and place within the Catholic Church in Australia.
The retreat will provide an opportunity for prayer, reflection and renewal, revisiting the message and legacy of this important address. Participants will reflect on the continuing call for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to share their gifts, culture and faith with the wider Church, and explore how this vision continues to guide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic ministry today.
Registration will open soon.
Sponsorship Opportunity
The Retreat provides an opportunity for Australia’s First Peoples to gather in faith and culture, renew relationships and strengthen community. NATSICC Retreats are not profit-making events; they are a core part of our mission to support and strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic communities.
Your sponsorship helps keep registration affordable and enables greater participation from communities across the country. It also aligns your organisation with a nationally significant moment in the life of the Australian Catholic Church and demonstrates a commitment to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics.
We would greatly value your support and partnership in helping make this important gathering possible.
Retreat Venue
Retreat Venue
Mercure Alice Springs
34 Stott Terrace
Alice Springs NT 0870
Accommodation
On site at the Mercure
We have negotiated special rates for the Retreat.
Additional Instructions:
Click this Link
Select Dates and number of people (automatically set to 29/11 - 2/12 but you can change as per your requirements)
Select “Special offer” in pink.
*Please be sure to read the terms and conditions you are booking – all of the online rates will display, some are prepaid, non-refundable and some are flexible with free cancellation and pay on arrival. Guests are liable for the terms that are selected.
Retreat Information
Program (Subject to change)
Sunday 29 November
11am Registration opens at Mercure
2.30pm Coaches depart for Opening Mass
3pm Opening Mass - OLSH Parish Alice Springs
5pm Community Dinner
Monday 30 November
9am - 5pm Retreat On site
6pm Dinner
Tuesday 1 December
9am - 5pm Retreat on Site
6pm Dinner
Wednesday 2 December
9am - 12.30pm - Final Retreat sessions
Thursday 3 December
Optional Tour: Memory Mountain
Presenters
To be confirmed