On 27^th February our parish RCIA team-in-formation attended a workshop led by Anne Sheehan from Bundaberg Parish. Anne was able to share her learning from many years of involvement with RCIA ministry. Our group of six wonderful parishioners, who have been working on re-forming our RCIA ministry, greatly appreciated her advice, especially the emphasis on RCIA as a ministry that embraces the whole parish. Our team is now in the process of planning how to best organise this important ministry, looking especially at the different roles and tasks involved. We are really looking forward to having a vibrant team leading the whole parish in the work of drawing people to faith in Christ and welcoming new members to our Church.

Below is a statement from our Catechumen,  Charlise Falconer, Chanel College Captain.

'I have been preparing for my Baptism and sacraments of initiation for some time now through reading about their importance and learning more about the Catholic faith. I was baptised as a baby into a different Christian denomination but since maturing and through my schooling life at a Catholic school I have discovered my own faith and what it means to be a Catholic. This lead me to discover my own faith and want to become part of the Catholic Church. It was then through the help of Ms Kristi Bourke, Ms Geraldine Dyer, Bernadette Ariens and Father Andrew that my journey really began. They helped me to understand what it was to be part of the Catholic faith and set a great example. Through their guidance I have begun my Lenten journey, just like you all only slightly different as I am participating in a series of rituals before my Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. I am excited and eager to be part of the Catholic faith and looking forward to entering God's big family. I hope to encourage other young people like myself to discover their faith. " 

We are so proud of Charlise and her commitment to the journey. She is an exemplary model for our young people and the whole parish. God bless you Charlise.