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By Professor Gabrielle McMullen AM
In this substantial article published in The Australasian Catholic Record, Professor Gabrielle McMullen offers a comprehensive Australian perspective on the emergence and significance of Ministerial Public Juridic Persons (MPJPs) as a model of lay governance contributing to a missionary, synodal church.
The article traces the origins of the MPJP movement from its “grassroots” beginnings in the United States healthcare sector in the early 1990s through to the establishment of fourteen MPJPs across Australia. It provides a detailed account of the evolution of AMPJP — the only national peak body for MPJPs in the world — including its formation, objects, formation framework, and strategic priorities.
Professor McMullen explores the theology of trusteeship as a genuine vocation and ministry of canonical leadership, drawing on Pope Francis’ call to discernment and collegial decision-making. She includes a case study of Mercy Ministry Companions (MMC) as an example of a synodal journey, and examines AMPJP’s relationships with the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and Catholic Religious Australia.
The article concludes by identifying key challenges ahead: ongoing formation of lay trustees, amendments to canon law, and the critical need to raise awareness of the MPJP sector within Australian Catholic circles.
Originally prepared for the Inclusive Governance in a Synodal Church symposium at ACU’s Rome campus, April 2025.
Professor Gabrielle McMullen AM
Professor Gabrielle McMullen AM is Deputy Chancellor of the University of Divinity, former ACU Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Chair of the Australian Catholic Council for Pastoral Research. She has served as a trustee of Mary Aikenhead Ministries and Mercy Ministry Companions, with research interests in Catholic identity and mission.