The aim of the research is to evaluate critically how Catholic liturgical celebrations and ritual forms contribute to the process of indigenous Reconciliation within our communities and for our nation. The focus on liturgical celebrations has value from two perspectives. Within the Roman Catholic tradition reconciliation has been expressed primarily through ritual[DO1] , with actions and declarations grounded in rites. Ritual language and events speak effectively [DO2] into the catholic community. In fact many of the actions of the Catholic Church towards reconciliation have been set within a liturgical framework or have ritual implications. The First Peoples of Australia are well versed in the language of ritual and symbol, and so there is the possibility of critical dialogue across the language of ritual and symbol. However this research will concentrate on a critical analysis of Catholic rite and symbol. The general approach to be taken here will be on non-indigenous liturgical responses[DO3] . Examples will be found in diocesan (local church) and national liturgical gatherings, parish celebrations, liturgical events fostered by religious orders, and Roman Catholic organisations (e.g. schools, health, and aged care). It is proposed that the research be divided into four sections.

1. The ecclesial context: Responses to indigenous reconciliation from the Australian Catholic Bishops.
2. The national context: A developing awareness of Australian indigenous history and lived experience in Australia
3. Liturgical responses of the non-indigenous Australian Catholic Church to National indigenous Reconciliation
4. Future proposals for shaping and celebrating liturgies for the non-indigenous Australian Catholic Church within the Catholic liturgical tradition as it walks the ‘journey of reconciliation’ with indigenous Australians[DO4] .

[DO1]But also, during the 1990s especially, through its public theology; its presentation of the Gospel 'in the earthly city'.

[DO2]Isn't this better phrased as a research question; i.e. 'how effectively does it speak', especially to Indigenous Catholics?

[DO3]These need to mean something tangible to Indigenous peoples for them to contribute to reconciliation?

[DO4]I think you need greater clarity and specificity on how you will do this, in particular? This seems to be the point that will give the thesis context, purpose and originality. There must be some positive impact for indigenous peoples of one can say that a contribution to reconciliation has been made.