DECEMBER 2025 CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG CatechistNET 2025 ANNUAL CATECHIST MASS & AWARDS TWO BY TWO: A VISION FOR CATECHIST MINISTRY SR MARTINA SARKIS – A LIFE OF POWERFUL WITNESS CATECHIST CALENDAR 2026 For unto us a child is born. ISAIAH 9:6
Jude Hennessy Diocesan Director Office of Renewal and Evangelisation DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE Honouring Faith and Service The 2025 Catechist Mass and Awards brought together catechists, their families, and diocesan leaders to celebrate the dedication of SRE teachers across the Diocese of Wollongong. Held during our Jubilee Year of Hope, the Mass was a time of gratitude, reflection, and recognition for those who bring Christ’s love into the lives of young people each week. The Jubilee Migrant Cross A highlight of this year’s Mass was the presence of the Jubilee Migrant Cross, which toured the Diocese from November 15-23. The Church of Wollongong was chosen as a destination because of its rich cultural diversity, reflecting the universality of the Catholic faith. Sitting in a boat, the Cross represents all who have come from distant lands, and the Gospel’s power to speak across cultures and generations. Attendees were invited to venerate the Cross, which contains relics of the Holy Family and St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, and to stamp their Jubilee Pilgrim Passports, with the special migrant cross stamp. Fittingly, the presence of the Cross served to highlight the multicultural strength that SRE is in NSW public schools. Year of Hope The Jubilee Year of Hope, opened by Pope Francis and soon to be closed by Pope Leo XIV, has encouraged catechists to reflect on the power of hope and the transformative work of the Gospel. Earlier in the year, our diocesan catechist retreats explored the virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love, encouraging catechists to embody these virtues and pass them on to students and their families. At the Jubilee of Catechists in Rome on 28 September, Pope Leo urged catechists to be “grounded in prayer, built up in sound doctrine, and animated by apostolic zeal,” a call reflected in the weekly efforts of our 450 catechists in over 120 schools reaching 7,000 students. Remembering Sr Martina Sarkis The Mass also honoured the passing of Sr Martina Sarkis, a much-loved Sister of St Joseph and former CCD Diocesan Coordinator who passed away in September. A Life Member of CCD, Sr Martina’s leadership and faith profoundly shaped the ministry. Her ongoing encouragement and prayer were a source of huge grace for the Diocese’s catechists. As November marks All Saints and All Souls, the Mass invited the community to give thanks for Sr Martina and for all catechists who have gone before us, and whose intercession continues to strengthen the ministry. Looking Ahead Despite growing secularism, SRE continues to be welcomed and valued in schools. With bipartisan support, parents retain the right to have their children formed in the faith of Annual Catechist Mass and Awards 2025 their family. Younger generations, sometimes called the “open generation,” are increasingly searching for and rediscovering faith, truth, and meaning — making the work of catechists more vital than ever. Gratitude and Recognition The Mass concluded with heartfelt thanks to Bishop Brian Mascord for all he does to nurture and defend this ministry in NSW, to Parish Clergy, and to the CCD Team — Frances Fairs, Sue Clark, and Helen Bennett for all of their ongoing efforts supporting catechists, but especially to parish coordinators, whose work on the ground ensures the ministry continues to impact the lives of so many young people and their families . Finally, award recipients were congratulated for achieving significant milestones in service and accreditation. While they serve quietly and humbly, this annual Mass appropriately and importantly honours their dedication and faithfulness. The Annual Catechist Awards Mass remains a true highlight for so many involved in the Ministry of CCD. I hope the summary above gives those unable to be present a sense of what was noted and celebrated. CatechistNET magazine is an annual publication of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Diocese of Wollongong. What follows is a short summary of the Director's address to Catechists made at the conclusion of Mass, hopefully serving as a reminder to those who were present and encouragement for those unable to attend.
Participating in the mission of Christ BY BISHOP BRIAN MASCORD Homily for the Annual SRE Catechist Mass, 22 November 2025 Today we gather with hearts full of gratitude. Each year our gathering for this Mass is always a cherished moment in our diocesan life, it is a moment of grace, an opportunity to pause, to pray, and to remember why your ministry matters so deeply. but in this Jubilee Year of Hope, it carries a special grace. It is a time to thank God for you, your generosity, your faithfulness, your quiet courage, and to reflect on how your ministry shines as a sign of hope in our world. The readings that we listen to today (Acts 13:46-49 & Mt 28: 16-20) speak directly to your ministry as teachers of the Gospel, especially in the unique and sometimes challenging environment of our state schools. To you as disciples who are called to proclaim the Word in those places where you educate in faith those who are placed into your care. In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Paul and Barnabas face resistance and misunderstanding, but they make a decisive, Spirit-led shift. After resistance from their own people, they say: “We are turning to the Gentiles.” They refuse discouragement; they refuse silence. Instead, they recognise that the Gospel belongs to everyone, not a select few. These are not words of frustration; they are words of mission. They recognise that God’s call leads them outward, beyond what is familiar, toward those who may not yet know the Good News. And then comes that remarkable line: “So the word of the Lord spread through the whole countryside.” My brothers and sisters, this is your story too. Many of you step into classrooms where the Gospel is not always expected, welcomed, or understood. Some of you face students who have never heard the name of Jesus spoken with love. Others meet children who hold a patchwork of beliefs or whose families carry wounds from the Church. And yet you go. You step forward. You plant seeds. Your ministry is not always easy. Some children come with no experience of faith. Some come with confusion, indifference, or hurt. Yet you go. You prepare, you teach, you pray. You give your time with love. And you do it not for applause, not for recognition, but because Christ has touched your hearts and you want to share that gift. For this, we say thank you, deeply and sincerely. Like Paul and Barnabas, you proclaim not because it is easy, but because the Spirit has asked you to shine Christ’s light exactly where you are. Jesus chooses ordinary disciples, disciples with doubts, disciples still growing in trust, and He sends them anyway. The Gospel today takes us to a mountain. For the Words that Jesus speaks to the disciples, He entrusts His mission to them all and these same words are spoken to you: “Go, make disciples… teach them… and know that I am with you always.” This is a word of consolation for you. There may be days when you feel tired, unsure, or discouraged. You may wonder if you have the right words or if what you do makes any difference. But Jesus chooses ordinary disciples, disciples with doubts, disciples still growing in trust, and He sends them anyway. Which means He sends you not because you are flawless, but because you are faithful. And your faithfulness is enough for Him. Jesus does not simply give a command. He gives a promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This promise is the anchor of your ministry. You are not just volunteers. You are not filling a gap in a timetable. You are participating in the mission of Christ himself. Every time you tell a story of Jesus, every time you help a child learn to pray, every time you show kindness, patience, or mercy, every time you answer a difficult question with humility and love, you are making the Gospel present. You are opening a door for the Holy Spirit to work. And the beautiful truth is this: you rarely see the full fruit of your labour. But God does. God uses your words, your presence, and your faith to touch hearts in ways you may never know. You are participating in the mission of Christ himself. Every time you tell a story of Jesus, every time you help a child learn to pray, you are making the Gospel present. Pope Francis invited the whole Church to live this Jubilee Year as Pilgrims of Hope. A pilgrim does not walk quickly or perfectly. A pilgrim walks steadily, humbly, and with longing for God. Our diocese is blessed by your willingness to serve in classrooms where the Church cannot ordinarily go. State school children often do not walk through the doors of our parishes, but they meet you. In many cases, you are the first face of the Church they meet, and what a hopeful face it is. You are missionaries in the truest sense of the word. Not missionaries far away, but missionaries right where the Spirit 4 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
has placed you. You are echoes of Paul and Barnabas. You are the disciples on the mountain. You are Christ’s hands and voice in the midst of the world. In a world where many children never hear about God’s love at home, or rarely encounter faith in their daily lives, you keep the lamp of hope burning. You help build a future where the Gospel still has a place in young hearts. Hope is not naive optimism. Hope is the conviction that God is faithful and that He is doing something new, even when we cannot yet see it. So how do we go forward from here, as pilgrims carrying the hope of the Jubilee? First, keep your eyes on Christ. He is the source of your strength. His promise, “I am with you always”, is your daily manna. Second, keep walking together. Pilgrims don’t journey alone. Support one another. Share joys and struggles. Draw encouragement from your community and your parishes. Third, keep trusting in the quiet work of grace. You will not always see the fruit of your efforts. But the Holy Spirit is at work in ways that far exceed what we can measure. A lesson remembered years later, a prayer whispered at a difficult moment, a sense of being loved, these are the hidden miracles of your ministry. And finally, keep your hearts hopeful. Hope is not naive optimism. Hope is the conviction that God is faithful and that He is doing something new, even when we cannot yet see it. Hope is missionary. Hope is courageous. Hope is contagious. And may you always hear Him whisper to you, as He did to the disciples on the mountain: “Do not be afraid. I am with you always.” CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 5
Diploma of Catechetics Level 1, 2 & 3 Training L-R: Emelia Bessant, Paul Nash, Robyn Ashley, Valerie Francois, Susanna Clark, Kathryn Howarth, Grettel Bonamis, Karol Uribe, Vira Fernandes, Sue Bohacs, Nellie Rafidi, Maria Nash, Bishop Brian Mascord, Donna Leng, Zenaida Hollebone, Josephine Clark, Jude Hennessy, Carol Bet, Sue Dean, Daniela Krstevska, Jeanette Janec, Mario Spiteri, Josephine Theunissen Absent: Mona Ekawati, Gilda Chauvet, Pauline McLaren Bishop's Citation 10 years service L-R: Vincent Breen, Bishop Brian Mascord, Maryse Rochecouste, Jude Hennessy Absent: Lynette Fernandez Bishop's Citation 15 years service L-R: Elizabeth Harvey, Bishop Brian Mascord, Josephine Clark, Jude Hennessy Absent: Denisse Sanhueza, Susanne Cole awards CATECHI ST 2025 6 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
Papal Blessing 20 years service L-R: Bishop Brian Mascord, Elizabeth O'Neill, Jude Hennessy Absent: Helen Plowman, Dorothy Cornish Mary Mackillop Medal 25 years service L-R: Jude Hennessy, Linda O'Rourke, Kathleen Dorling, Bishop Brian Mascord, Roslyn O'Dea, Emanuel Grech, Margaret Streater Life Membership 30+ years service L-R: Anne Dulhunty, Margaret Botterill, Bishop Brian Mascord, Vicky Stuart, Margaret Raisbeck, Jude Hennessy The following awards were presented to SRE Catechists at the Annual Catechist Mass to recognise and celebrate significant milestones of service. The awards ceremony is inspirational and strengthens our CCD community. CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 7
BY FRANCES FAIRS The Jubilee Year has been spoken about far and wide—homilies, articles, conversations over tea after Mass. It’s been a blessed year for all members of the Church, but for Catechists, this sacred year has also been a great opportunity. If the Church invited all members to be Pilgrims of Hope, then Catechists, in a special way, became companions on the road—guiding children and families toward the heart of our Triune God and the life of the Church. It has been a beautiful, grace-filled journey. Helping Catechists Walk the Jubilee Path From the beginning, we wanted this Jubilee to be something Catechists could live, not just read about. So through our CatechistNET newsletter, Zoom sessions, in-person meetings, and our retreat, we shared practical ways to participate as Pilgrims of Hope. Pilgrim passports made their way into classrooms and parishes, and diocesan Jubilee events saw a wonderful number of Catechists and families taking part. Sue Clark and I created online resources and lesson plans to help you bring the Jubilee alive in your lessons. With permission from the Catholic Education Office, the Archdiocese of Brisbane, and the Diocese of Broken Bay, we passed on classroom pilgrimage materials—posters, stickers, and more. Your enthusiastic feedback told us they hit the mark. Thank you! Expanding Our Online Resources Even Further This year also gave us special moments in the life of the Church that were perfect for classroom teaching. We created special online resources for the canonisations of Sts Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, for Lent (Caritas), and as mentioned, for the Jubilee Year. In addition, we updated the COLAL resources to include our new Holy Father, and Sue continued to enrich our CatechistNET newsletter with storytelling tips, craft ideas, and seasonal lessons for Easter and Advent/Christmas. If you ever need to revisit something, all past newsletters are available on our website—your very own treasure chest of teaching ideas. Welcoming Pope Leo XIV This year held a profound moment of transition as Pope Leo XIV was elected in May and succeeded Pope Francis. To mark this historic moment, we created new prayer cards for Stages 2 and 3, and updated the Year 1 fivefinger prayer card to share a lovely image of Pope Leo XIV and a prayer with a reminder of God’s love for the children. A Gift for Our Year 6 Students: My Catholic Prayer Book For years, we struggled to find a Bible of suitable quality for our Year 6 gifts. Then Jude Hennessy made a suggestion that I wasn’t expecting: Why not create something ourselves? So we did. Sue and I got to work in shaping My Catholic Prayer Book, and I could not be more pleased with the result. The book offers well-loved Catholic prayers, prayers for special intentions, inspiration from the saints, scripture verses and guidance for living as young disciples. And at the very front, a heartfelt message from Bishop Brian Mascord encouraging each student to pray daily. It is a gift we hope will accompany them into the next chapter of their faith journey. Courses, Formation, and a Retreat to Remember With the Jubilee theme of hope illuminating our formation this year, our courses offered practical tools for teaching as well as adult formation in our Catholic faith. We felt encouraged: • Approx. 150 Catechists participated in Safeguarding and Level 1 courses • 95 catechists and parishioners joined us for our Level 3 course in May • Excellent feedback on all CCD events & courses, including the creative resource days and Jubilee Zoom sessions Furthermore, we were delighted to welcome catechists from other dioceses across NSW to our courses—something we hope to continue next year. One of the shining moments of the year was our Catechist Retreat, which was held in the week of the Jubilee of Catechists. Over 110 Catechists attended across two pilgrimage sites. The day was spiritually rich, intellectually stimulating, and a lot of fun. Our gratitude goes to Jude Hennessy, Fr Bernard Gordon VG, and Sr Magdalen Mather OSB for their wonderful sessions on Faith, Hope, and Love. But for me, the highlight was the celebration of Mass—surrounded by you, the saints of our diocese—and listening to the inspired preaching of Fr Bernard Gordon and Fr Chris Sarkis. To be fair, the food was also pretty good… Thank you to Sue Clark and Helen Bennett for your excellent support. Thank you As we come to the end of this Jubilee Year, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks for your selfless service, your steadfast faith, and the hope you bring into classrooms each week. You are Pilgrims of Hope for the young people of our diocese. May these summer months bring you rest, may this Advent season draw you deeper into the quiet hope of Christ’s coming, and may Christmas fill your homes and hearts with the peace and love of our Saviour. With gratitude and prayer for each of you—Have a blessed Advent, a very merry Christmas, and a refreshing summer break. A YEAR AS PILGRIMS OF 8 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
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BY JUDE HENNESSY It was with deep sadness that we learnt, across the Diocese, of the passing of Sr Martina Sarkis RSJ on Saturday 27 September 2025, a muchloved Sister of St Joseph, and former CCD Diocesan Coordinator for our Diocese, who entered eternal life after a short illness. Sr Martina’s faith in Christ shone brightly throughout her life and ministry. She served with generosity and love, inspiring all who knew her by her prayerfulness, dedication, and gentle spirit. Her years of service within the Diocese of Wollongong, particularly as CCD Coordinator during the 1990s, touched countless lives, and her legacy of faith will continue to bear fruit. At the funeral Mass on 3 October 2025, held at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Rosemeadow, her brother Fr Chris Sarkis along with members of the Josephite community, lovingly remembered Sr Martina as being dedicated to ensuring that the love she had for Jesus was boldly and generously shared, especially through her efforts in making Jesus known and loved as a catechist in state schools and parish sacramental programs. In 2012, Sr Martina was appropriately honoured by the Catholic Conference of Religious Education in State Schools (CCRESS) for her significant contribution in the 1990s to the establishment and development of agreed training programs used across NSW dioceses, equipping catechists in this ministry. The legacy of these developments has been a growing robustness in formation and resourcing for catechists ever since. Sr. Martina dedicated her life to ensuring that the love she had for Jesus was boldly and generously shared. Speaking on behalf of twenty special guests who were awarded with medallions for their contribution to the leadership of the ministry, Sr Martina noted that while she was honoured to receive the award, she regarded herself as doing so on behalf of all Catechists. Powerfully, she encouraged us all present, emphasising how as a Sister of St. Joseph, she was absolutely certain that the work of SRE teachers in State Schools would continue to be dear to the heart of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop – seeing a need and doing something about it! I was blessed to be able to visit Sr Martina just two days before her passing. It was a privileged moment that I got to share with some of her family and fellow Josephites. Her faith was expectant, and she was truly looking forward to meeting Jesus in the heavenly banquet. In travelling to see her, I recalled the many times over my now fifteen years in this CCD ministry in the Diocese, where I had encountered her at daily Masses, at diocesan events, at CCD celebrations and the like. Whenever she spoke with me, it was as if she regarded me as the most SR MARTINA SARKIS RS J witness A life of powerful 10 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
important person in the world at that moment – that’s just how she made me, and doubtless many others, feel. She was always so generous with her encouragement and always assured me of her prayers. That wasn’t just a throw-away line for Sr Martina – she was a prayer warrior – and I personally, and our ministry more broadly, have received many graces as a result of her prayerfulness. She was absolutely certain that the work of SRE teachers would always remain dear to the heart of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop — seeing a need and doing something about it. Above all, she was a disciple who knew the power of affirmation – I couldn’t help but note to her at her bedside, that I think that her ‘superpower’ was affirmation, and she seemingly knew exactly when to offer that gift to me – often at times of difficulty, self-doubt and anxiety. Aren’t we blessed in the Church community to have examples of lives of faith and service such as Sr Martina’s. They exist in every parish, every ministry and we need to keep our eyes open for them. More importantly, we need to be awake to our calling to be the disciple that Jesus uniquely calls us to be, using our gifts in cooperation with the Holy Spirit – our very own God given - ‘superpowers’. Her superpower was affirmation. She knew exactly when to offer that gift — often at moments of difficulty, self-doubt, and anxiety. Thank you for striving to do just that in your service of the Gospel and of young people in this ministry. BY FRANCES FAIRS As we approach a new school year, it’s important for all Catechists to be clear about what the Department of Education (DoE) requires regarding the scheduling of Special Religious Education (SRE). Each year we see a mixture of practices across schools: some run SRE consistently up until the final week of term, while others announce “early finishes” or “late starts.” While these requests can seem routine, it’s vital to remember that they are not permitted under NSW requirements unless formally negotiated and compensated for. The NSW DoE policy is that SRE occurs every week of the school term, amounting to 1200 minutes of instruction each year (usually, 10 x 30min lessons per term). While schools may choose a fortnightly schedule, they must lengthen lessons to ensure the annual time requirement is still met. In recent years, more schools have begun notifying coordinators of early finishes in Term 4—sometimes as early as Weeks 5 or 6. This is often paired with schools warning that SRE will start late the following year, sometimes not returning until Week 6 or later of Term 1. These practices have significant consequences. When families enrol their children in SRE, they expect the curriculum outlined in the scope and sequence to be taught in full. Early finishes and late starts make this impossible. We also know from experience that once a school begins finishing early, it can easily slide into later and later starts, sudden cancellations, and a general view of SRE as optional rather than a requirement. Clarity on SRE Scheduling Requirements What Schools Are Required to Provide Next year, students return in Week 2 of Term 1. The DoE’s direction is that SRE must return in the first weeks—that is, Week 2 or Week 3. Some schools have raised concerns about competing programs in those early weeks. Flexibility can certainly be offered, but not at the expense of the mandated 1200 minutes of SRE for the year. Where a late start is negotiated, additional time must be added elsewhere—such as longer lessons, or supplementary sessions—to ensure the curriculum can still be completed. If a school approaches you about an early finish or late start, do not navigate this alone. Your Catechist Coordinator should be contacted immediately. With the support of CCD Wollongong, your Catechist Coordinator will be equipped to communicate with schools and can help negotiate reasonable alternatives that protect both the curriculum and the time allocation required. In many recent negotiations, positive outcomes have been reached: assemblies, adjusted timetables, and increased lesson durations have all been used successfully to maintain full SRE provision. No matter your role—teacher or coordinator—you are not expected to manage these situations by yourself. CCD Wollongong will support you in ensuring SRE continues to be offered consistently and in full. By being clear about expectations at the start of the year, staying in communication with schools, and seeking support when needed, we help ensure that the students entrusted to us receive the complete and meaningful SRE experience their families have chosen. CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 11
2026 CATECHIST NSW school holidays (includes school development days) X NSW public holidays JANUARY S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 MAY S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 SEPTEMBER S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9101112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 FEBRUARY S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 JUNE S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910111213 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 OCTOBER S M T W T F S 1 2 3 45678 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 MARCH S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 JULY S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 NOVEMBER S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 12 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
APRIL S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 AUGUST S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112131415 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 DECEMBER S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9101112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Coordinator Meetings 10:00am–11:30am Illawarra-Shoalhaven Wollongong February 2, June 29, November 2 Macarthur-Highlands Rosemeadow January 30, June 26, October 30 Level 1 (Term 1) 9:30am–1:30pm Illawarra-Shoalhaven Wollongong February 9, 16, 23 March 2, 9 Macarthur-Highlands Rosemeadow February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 6 Level 1 (Term 3) 9:30am–1:30pm Online via Zoom August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Annual Catechist Mass 10:00am St Francis Xavier Cathedral November 21 Parish Renewal Summit St Gregory’s, Campbelltown October 1-3 Catechist Retreat 9:30am–2:30pm Illawarra-Shoalhaven March 23 Macarthur-Highlands March 27 Level 2 (Term 2) 9:30am–2:30pm Illawarra-Shoalhaven Wollongong April 27 May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1 Macarthur-Highlands Rosemeadow May 1,8, 15, 22, 29, June 5 Dates are correct at time of printing (December 2025) Creative Resource Days 10:00am–1:30pm Illawarra-Shoalhaven Wollongong July 27 Macarthur-Highlands Rosemeadow July 31 CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 13
BY FRANCES FAIRS When Jesus sent his disciples out to share in his mission, he sent them “two by two.” This detail is more than a practical arrangement—it reflects a deeper truth about Christian ministry: we are not meant to serve alone. From the beginning, Jesus built partnership, encouragement, and shared witness into the life of discipleship. Sending the disciples in pairs meant they reached fewer towns, but the towns they did reach encountered something stronger: two witnesses supporting one another, modelling unity and giving credibility to the message they carried. Jesus knew that faith is strengthened—and safeguarded—in relationship. The Power of the First Follower This reminds me of the short TED Talk, “How to Start a Movement,” where a lone dancer on a hillside seems odd— until one person joins him. That first follower transforms everything. Two people dancing looks less risky, more credible, and suddenly, there are three, then four people dancing. In no time, dozens rush to participate. A movement is born not from the lone leader, but from the companion who validates, strengthens and amplifies the message. Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two by two… MARK 6:7 A VISION FOR THE CATECHIST MINISTRY He Sent them out Two by Two by James Tissot (1836–1902). Photo: Brooklyn Museum. It’s a quirky example, but an effective one. Ministry often begins with a leader, but it grows because of the one who stands beside them. Why Twos Matter in Our Ministry Today In our own catechist ministry, this “two by two” model is just as relevant. Two by two, we are stronger in our Christian witness to the children we serve. The Teacher may lead the lesson, but the Helper—our very own “first follower”— deepens the experience, offers another voice, and models cooperation and community. Working in pairs also supports a key aspect of safe and healthy ministry. In CCD and our Church more broadly, we recognise the importance of creating environments where everyone—children, families, and catechists themselves—feel safe, respected, and supported. Serving together naturally strengthens this. Two adults in the room provide balance, clarity, and shared responsibility, helping to ensure that conversations and interactions unfold with transparency and care. two by two sent out 14 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
As the Coordinator of our Catechist Ministry in the Diocese, this is a big deal to me. Safeguarding children, vulnerable adults and catechists is paramount, and required in safeguarding our ministry. When two catechists serve together: • We reduce the possibility of misunderstandings, miscommunications and unsafe dynamics • We provide mutual accountability and support • We create safer spaces for conversations • We ensure that no catechist is left unsupported in a moment of vulnerability • We uphold the dignity, autonomy and safety of every person we encounter A Vision for our Ministry My vision is simple, grounded in Scripture and informed by safeguarding wisdom: Every Catechist Teacher should aim to have a Catechist Helper. When students see two catechists working side by side, they see the Gospel lived out: cooperation, shared mission and mutual respect. When school staff and families encounter a team, rather than an individual, they experience a ministry that is welcoming, trustworthy and grounded in shared mission. Jesus understood that mission is not carried alone. For the good of sharing the Gospel—and those we serve—we are called to walk, teach, witness and safeguard together. BY PETER GILMORE Sixty years ago, amongst the many treasures of the Second Vatican Council, we received a beautiful document: Dei Verbum, or God’s Word, the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation. At its heart, Dei Verbum is not simply a teaching about the Bible; it is a call to renewed relationship, reminding us that God desires to speak to each of us, heart to heart, through his Word, the Bible. The psalmist gives us the language of lovers: “O how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day long” (Psalm 119:97) and “Your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jeremiah 15:16) This is not the voice of obligation. They are the words of someone who has found the treasure of the Scriptures and discovered the Bible is not simply a book, but a place of encounter with God. He waits for us in his Word. Dei Verbum reminds us that “in the sacred books, the Father who is in heaven meets His children with great love and speaks to them”. It is Pope Leo’s heart and mind that all the faithful would have “easy access” to the Scriptures, “so that everyone may encounter the God who speaks, shares his love, and draws us into the fullness of life” (Pope Leo XIV, 17 November 2025). The Word of God is meant to be delighted in and savoured – like sunshine on the skin, a light in the darkness, or honey on the tongue – for it is within Scripture that we discover God’s desire for companionship with us. He is inviting us to sit with him in our joy, our confusion, our fear, and our longing, and hear him speak our name. Every time we open the Scriptures, the God who spoke us into existence comes close and speaks not of abstract ideas but of personal love and friendship. His Word is not ancient, or distant, or cold. It is the living voice, presence, and breath of God. When we let his Word become part of our daily life – even for only a few minutes – we begin to realise that even though we read the Scriptures, the Scriptures are reading us, they are reading me. Pope Leo, in celebrating the 60th anniversary of Verbum Dei, reminds us that our “mission is to become ‘living letters … written not in ink but by the Spirit of the living God,’ (2 Cor 3:1-6), bearing witness to the primacy of God’s Word over the many voices that fill our world” (Pope Leo XIV, 17 November, 2025). What then might we do? Perhaps we might pick up the Scriptures again. Open them slowly. Let a single line of God’s Word rest in your heart. Let the Holy Spirit breathe through it. Let Jesus speak. We don’t need to master the Scriptures. This isn’t an invitation to study, analyse, or read more. It is an invitation to receive more, to encounter, and to rest in the God who still speaks to us today. To read Dei Verbum in full, visit dow.sh/DeiVerbum Falling in Love with the Scriptures “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” PSALM 119:103 Catechists, have a think about whether or not you would benefit from having a helper in class with you — especially if you have a big class and feel a bit stretched and vulnerable at times. Maybe, start with a conversation amongst your parish catechist team and consider who from the team or broader parish you could ask to be a helper. Being a Catechist Helper is a non threatening way for parishioners to join our ministry. CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 15
The Gifts that Catechists Bring BY EDSEL PARKE We are told in the Gospel that the three wise men of the East “rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (Mt 2:10) as the star of Bethlehem rose above them. Upon beholding the Mother and Child, they “opened their treasures and offered him gifts” (Mt 2:11). Parish Renewal Summit 1-3 October 2026 The Parish Renewal Summit is more than just a conference. It’s a gathering of passionate leaders— priests and parishioners—who believe the Church is meant to thrive, not just survive. Save the date in your calendar now to join with others from around Australia and beyond for extraordinary formation. You will hear powerful, practical talks on parish renewal and evangelisation from the founder of Divine Renovation, Fr James Mallon, and be a part of practical workshops with members of your parish. All throughout this Jubilee Year, we have been called to “put out into the deep” (Lk 5:4) with a renewed spirit of hope. Like the Magi—our great forebears as Pilgrims of Hope—we have set off from the comforts of the familiar, invited by the divine light to seek intimacy with our loving Lord. Being a catechist, you have responded to this invitation in a unique way. You have offered up your time and energy in order to bring precious gifts to the children you teach. You bring the precious gold of our holy Catholic faith, “that all may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”. (Col 2:2-3). You bring the frankincense of reverent prayer into environments which may otherwise remain unaware of God’s loving presence. And you bring the myrrh of sacrificial love through the patience and commitment you show to your classes. May the Child who welcomed the gifts of the Wise Men likewise bless these gifts that you continue to bring into your ministry. in partnership with 1–3 OCTOBER 2026 ST GREGORY’S COLLEGE CAMPBELLTOWN NSW SAVE THE DATE The Jubilee call to “seek the Lord with all one’s heart” (Jer 29:13) is something that must spill over beyond this Holy Year, and into the totality of how we live our lives as Christians. Our pilgrimage of hope does not end when the Pope closes the Holy Door at St Peter’s! There are many means you can use to further deepen your intimacy with the Lord and your commitment to His Church. You may feel called to read Scripture, the Catechism, and/or religious books more frequently. Renew your love of the Sacraments, especially the Holy Mass and the Sacrament of Penance—make Mass, confession, and adoration a priority, because these are channels of divine life. You may also like to join a Faith Circle, parish prayer group or CCD event (see pages 12-13 for Catechist Calendar). I especially encourage you to attend the Parish Renewal Summit taking place on 1–3 October. These all become means of strength and sustenance on your journey through this life. As you look toward the year ahead, may that same star that guided the Magi continue to illuminate your path and deepen your resolve to seek Christ in all things. The gifts you offer as a catechist will bear fruit in ways you may never fully see... yet God receives each one with delight. May He renew your joy in serving His children and grant you every grace you need on your pilgrimage. 16 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
BY PETER GILMORE During my time serving the SRE Catechists of this Diocese, I was acutely aware of the ever-present and growing need for more people who were willing to step into the breach for Catholic children and their families who choose to be educated in State Schools. As SRE Catechists, our mission stems from the belief that all Catholic children deserve the right to be educated in the faith of their families, regardless of the school they attend. Vatican II affirms this truth: “All [people] of every race, condition and age, since they enjoy the dignity of a human being, have an inalienable right to an education that is in keeping with their ultimate goal” — Vatican II, Declaration on Christian Education (Gravissimum Educationis), §1 Make no mistake, the “ultimate goal” of the human person is to enjoy union with God for all eternity. Perhaps then it would be appropriate to say our mission is two-fold – to serve the Catholic children who would otherwise not receive a systematic education in the Catholic Faith, and to actively and continuously grow our teams of SRE Catechists to meet the growing demands of SRE. But how might we accomplish this? In helping to form parishes in Bishop Brian’s vision, Come & See, Go & Make, with all the complexity of Catholic vocabulary, we have adopted a simple yet profound saying: We are called to be disciples who make disciples. It somehow captures the whole process of evangelisation – encounter with Jesus, becoming a disciple, and then going on mission – but makes it a little more memorable. Our hope should be to make disciples who, in turn, make disciples who, in turn, make disciples, and so on. If we are all called to make disciples, even those who have newly become Catholic, our growth should be exponential, not linear. What would happen if we adopted this attitude as Catechists? What if we became Catechists who make Catechists? How could we do things differently? If I may suggest three things we might do: Firstly, ASK - All Catechists could be encouraged to pray for new members of the ministry and listen to the Holy Spirit for who he might be putting on our hearts. It might be that we notice someone speaking clearly and with authority in our social interactions at Church, or someone expresses a love of children. However the person comes to our attention, having the courage to tell them what you noticed, whatever it is, and ask that most important question: “Have you ever considered being a catechist? You would be great for the ministry.” This could happen at any time, in any situation. Secondly, WALK - If God calls us to reach out to someone, then that’s usually an indication that it’s also our responsibility to ensure there will be someone to walk with them on their journey of becoming and being a Catechist. It may be the person who asked them to join the ministry, or there might be someone more suitable due to age, sex, or state of life (such as a mother with another mother, a young person with another young person, and so on). Walking with a new catechist is not simply about ensuring they start teaching, but about choosing to connect with them regularly to ask how they are doing, answer any questions, offer encouragement, and even set aside time to visit their class and provide feedback. The aim is not to make them like you but to help them discover their own gifts as an SRE Catechist. Commit to reaching out to a new Catechist at least fortnightly for the first 6 months and then semi-regularly after that. By being Catechists who walk with new Catechists, we model for them that we want to be Catechists who make Catechists. And finally, PRAY - Commit to praying with the new Catechist whenever you are together and for them daily, especially in the first year. Thank God for them and ask God to reveal his will for their involvement in the Catechist ministry. It might not be the right fit for them, but that’s ok! At least they dared to give it a shot. We can also pray that God would prompt them to encourage someone else to join the ministry. When you phrase it like that – ASK, WALK, PRAY – it almost sounds too simple, but if we are called to be disciples who make disciples, it stands to reason that we could also be Catechists who make Catechists. Can you imagine how the ministry of SRE Catechists might grow if we adopted this attitude? Catechists Catechists who make CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 17
BY FRANCES FAIRS Filming for the new diocesan Who We Are video took place a few months ago, offering a wonderful opportunity to capture our catechists in action—joyfully teaching, listening, praying, and guiding children in their journey of faith. While the final video will be shared soon, we wanted to offer a glimpse into the heart of the ministry by sharing the reflections gathered on filming day. Each catechist was invited to reflect on their reasons for being a part of the Catechist Ministry, and the moments that have marked their service. Their words paint a moving portrait of what it means to be an SRE Catechist today. Why are you an SRE Catechist? Paul: “I’m a Catechist because I think that it’s a responsibility of each generation to share the Gospel.” Cindy: “God has given me so much, and I want children to experience the same thing.” Fifi: “I think there is nothing more important than introducing children to God and his love.” Maria: “Because my priest asked me, and it’s a great way to share my faith.” Peter: “Because it’s an amazing way to be a part of the Church’s mission.” How do you contribute to the Mission of the Church? Paul: “It’s evangelising through simple teaching. We plant seeds of faith in young hearts and minds.” Fifi: “By planting the seed of faith, it enables us to make Jesus known and loved… especially to those who wouldn’t normally hear it.” Maria: “Catechists help shape children to lead good lives, and therefore shape their future, by proclaiming the Good News.” Peter: “I used to think being a missionary meant travelling far away, but now I see there is plenty of missionary work in my own community.” Cindy: “In preparing to teach each week, you learn so much. You grow in confidence and naturally share your faith.” Memorable Moments in the Classroom When asked to share meaningful moments, the catechists’ faces lit up! Cindy: “A 10-year-old told me he responded to a friend who said, ‘I don’t believe in God’ with, ‘I’ll pray for you.’ How good is that!” Maria: “I taught a lesson on generosity, and the children’s response to Project Compassion was so amazing—it really encouraged me!” Fifi: “I love it when the kids know the prayers, because I know they will remember them for the rest of their lives.” Peter: “The kids are really keen to know about God—they want to be involved.” Paul: “I love to sing and taught my class ‘Jesus Loves Me’ and now they sing it on their own. It’s fantastic!” The Impact of Catholic SRE The catechists also shared what they have observed in their students. Maria: “I see real growth in Christian values and behaviour.” Cindy: “They come to know they are children of God. They grow in relationship with God through prayer and a sense of belonging.” Fifi: “The children become less selfcentred and more caring, patient, and loving toward one another.” Paul: “They grow in knowledge of God and learn to trust Him in prayer, as well as in core Catholic traditions.” Peter: “They become prayerful and knowledgeable about their faith. It impacts their life and changes how they see the world.” It is clear to me that SRE Catechists play a vital role in evangelisation and although the motivations and gifts of catechists might be unique, all are connected to the mission of the Church. Thank you to Fifi, Peter, Cindy, Paul and Maria for sharing their hearts openly about their work as SRE Catechists. Their reflections affirm what we already know: SRE makes a genuine difference in the lives of children and in the communities we serve. May God bless all of our wonderful volunteers—Catechist Teachers and Helpers— as they guide young minds and hearts closer to Jesus. Catechists Share their Heart Insights from those Filmed in New Diocesan Video If you have a good news story to share about being a catechist, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at: support@ccdwollongong.com 18 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
Please consider giving a gift to help continue the good works of the Church today. (please ensure you select the SRE Fund) You can make a tax-deductible donation at: dow.sh/ministrygiving or by scanning this QR code: ST PETER TO ROT Courageous Catechist and Witness to the Faith BY FRANCES FAIRS On October 19, Pope Leo XIV canonised seven new saints, including the martyred lay catechist from Papua New Guinea, St Peter To Rot, who was arrested in 1945 during the Japanese occupation in World War II and martyred for refusing to abandon his Catholic faith. His trust in God transformed him into a lamp that illuminated everyone. Peter To Rot was born in 1912 into one of the first Catholic families in the Rakanui region of Papua New Guinea. He was formed in faith from an early age and trained at St Paul’s Mission School to serve as a catechist. Peter succeeded brilliantly in his studies and at age 21, obtained the catechist’s diploma. An account described the young Peter “…he was modest and there was not the slightest vanity in him, neither with regard to his background nor capability. He let the older catechists guide him in his work and accepted their advice but eventually eclipsed them all and soon became their recognised leader, although he was younger”. As a catechist, Peter was known for his humility, compassion, and deep love of Scripture. He gathered people for prayer, instructed children and adults in the faith, and cared for the sick and poor. Peter married a young Catholic woman from a neighbouring village and three children were born from the marriage. In 1942, when the Japanese imprisoned the missionaries, removing them from the villages, Peter courageously stepped forward to shepherd the faithful. For nearly four years, he led Sunday services, baptised infants, prepared couples for marriage, and comforted the dying — often in secret and at great personal risk. The Japanese became aware of Peter’s work and apostolate. Many times, he was called by the police and threatened. But he told his friends, “They want to take away prayer from us, but I shall do my work.” I’m your catechist, and I will do my duty even if it costs me my life. Secretly, at night, and in dug-outs, St Peter To Rot continued to serve the community and when warned to stop his ministry, Peter replied with unwavering conviction: “They have taken away our priests, but they cannot forbid us to be Catholics and to live and die as such. I’m your catechist, and I will do my duty even if it costs me my life.” That promise became his reality. After publicly opposing the Japanese policy that promoted polygamy, Peter was arrested and later killed in prison for his faith. His steadfast commitment to his catechetical mission — even to the point of martyrdom — inspired generations of Papua New Guinean Catholics. During his Beatification, Pope John Paul II stated, “because the Spirit of God dwelt in him, he fearlessly proclaimed the truth about the sanctity of marriage. He refused to take the ‘easy way’ of moral compromise. ‘I have to fulfil my duty as a Church witness to Jesus Christ,’ he explained. Fear of suffering and death did not deter him.” At his canonisation on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV said that it was his trust in God that transformed him from being “a normal person, like any one of us, into a lamp that illuminated everyone” and “May the example of Saint Peter To Rot encourage us to defend the truths of the faith, even at the cost of personal sacrifice, and to rely always on God in our trials.” St Peter To Rot is a shining example of lay leadership, courage, and fidelity. He showed that the catechist’s mission is not only to teach about Christ, but to live the Gospel with unwavering love and faith. CATECHI STNET • DECEMBER 2025 | 19
BY SUE CLARK Have you noticed how heartwarming it is to see a child pray? I recall one occasion that really stands out to me, when the bell rang for the end of the K-2 lesson. The children were asked by the catechist “now stay where you are and pray in your hearts to Jesus.” The children literally stopped what they were doing and I watched one particular child join hands and talk to Jesus. Mission accomplished! It reminded me that, as catechists, we have a unique opportunity to introduce the children to Jesus and nurture within them a personal relationship with him. Let us not underestimate the power of spontaneous prayer from the heart that leads all ages of children to their Lord. Children love to pray and how wonderful it is that our Curriculum, Christ our Light and Life aims to provide an environment in which young children may fall ‘in love’ with Jesus the Good Shepherd and slowly come to know that they are members of the Church that he established for us. If we are to help the children foster a personal relationship with God, it makes sense that we give them opportunities to talk to God and for God to talk to them. As part of this process let us also model ourselves at prayer time and prepare ourselves by asking, am I recollected? Do I have a desire for these children to have an interaction with God? Our task is simple and sacred — to help children recognise that God desires to meet them in prayer. Here are some suggestions to help you manage prayer time with young children, using a variety of methods which focus on their current stage of life and their developmental needs. Kindergarten and Stage 1 (Years K,1,2) - Keep it Simple! Using these simple techniques, you will have the children praying in no time! Children who are starting school will need to learn to make the Sign of the Cross and pray the words “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This may take some practice. Before you make the sign of the cross, say something like “Let’s be quiet, join our hands and speak to Jesus in our hearts.” Each lesson has an age-appropriate prayer suggestion for the start and the finish of the lesson. As the children move into Years 1 and 2 they will be able to articulate their own prayers of thanks and blessing to God for example, for the gift of creation. Alternatively, you can use one of your own favourites. I heard this one used recently “Hello dear Lord, I hope that you will be with me the whole day through, and help me love you even more, than I did the day before. Amen” Gather the children on the floor and affirm good behaviour, such as “I really like the way (child’s name) is sitting so quietly while we prepare to pray.” Unpack the Prayer Place reverently to give the children a focus. Draw attention to the liturgical season, especially if it has changed from the previous week. Use one prayer only and introduce a new one each term. Say the prayer and the actions together as this will also help to settle the children. Initially, you say one line and the students repeat it after you. Be a mirror for the children. If you can make the sign of the cross with your left hand it may help the children copy you. In composite classes be mindful of children who already know how to make the Sign of the Cross and invite them to lead the others. Say something like “We are going to start by making the sign of the cross and we are all going to do it together. Those children who already know how to make the sign of the cross, I’d like you to set a good example for the others.” Eventually they will read from the books or say the prayers by heart if you repeat them often. Repetition activates the memory and creates routine. Stage 2 (Years 3 &4) Let them Share! Children in Years 3 and 4 will be able to read the prayers from their activity book lesson or from the back of the book which provides a number of different choices. They may also be eager to share their prayer intentions with the rest of the class. In year 4, you could pray a decade of the Rosary (Yr 4, Lesson 22: Mary, our Guide to Jesus). This would be a fitting way to combine the main prayers of the Church–Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be. Age Appropriate Prayer 20 | CONFRATERNITY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE • CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WOLLONGONG
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