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
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