One Call. One Mission. Pilgrims of hope
”We must fan the flame of hope that has been given to us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision.”
Pope Francis, For the Jubilee, 2024
There is a particular scene in The Lord of the Rings trilogy where the two main characters, Frodo and Sam, are at the end of their perilous journey. They are exhausted, tired, sceptical really, that their mission to save Middle Earth is too far reaching and overly costly to themselves and those they are trying to save. Their conversation goes like this:
Frodo: I can’t do this Sam.
Sam: I know. It’s all wrong. By rights we shouldn’t even be here, but we are…
But I think, Mr. Frodo, I do understand. I know now. Folk in those stories had lots of chances of turning back only they didn’t. Because they were holding on to something. Frodo: What are we holding on to, Sam?
Sam: That there’s some good in this world, Mr. Frodo. And it’s worth fighting for.
This moment between Frodo and Sam is profoundly moving, reflecting the depth of their sacrifice and commitment. In many ways, it’s not hard to see how their dialogue resonates deeply with our own Christian call and mission. Like Frodo, we often encounter moments of doubt and despair, feeling overwhelmed by the challenges that lie ahead. Yet, Sam’s response captures the heart of our faith journey: despite the trials and tribulations, we persevere because we hold on to something greater. This “something” is the promise of hope, the conviction that there is inherent goodness in the world, and it is worth striving for. Our Catholic faith reassures us that even in the darkest of times, there is light and redemption. This hope, anchored in the resurrection of Christ, empowers us to continue our journey with courage and confidence, knowing that our efforts contribute to a greater good and a brighter future.
In this context, what hope can we offer the world, and what impact can we make? Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, in his book What is the Point of Being a Christian?, suggests that it begins with each of us and how we live our lives as Christians. He writes, “If we are pointed to God, then this should make a difference to how we live. This is not a moral superiority. Christians are usually no better than anyone else. But the lives of Christians should be marked by some form of hope, freedom, happiness and courage. If they are not, then why should anyone believe a word they say?”
Radcliffe’s insight challenges us to embody the love, compassion, and justice that our faith promises, making our lives a testament to the transformative power of living in alignment with God’s will. In responding to Jesus, we are called to be active participants in His mission, striving to build the reign of God on earth through our actions and relationships. By living out this evangelising mission, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire and uplift those around us, offering hope and witness to Christ’s presence in the world to all current and future generations.
As we celebrate this Jubilee Year of “Pilgrims of Hope”, let us embrace our mission with joy and enthusiasm, knowing that each step we take with God brings us closer to a more hopeful future. May we heed the words of Pope Francis and work in communion to fan the flame of hope, inspiring new strength and certainty with open spirits and trusting hearts. As the early Christian community remind us, the greatest journeys are those we undertake together, and there is no greater joy than seeing the lives we influence transformed by our collective efforts.
Ryan Gato Assistant Head of Schools
Religious Education and Spirituality Services
1
2
Pope Francis. Letter of the Holy Father Francis to Msgr. Rino Fisichella, 2024.
Radcliffe, T. What’s the Point of Being a Christian?, 2005.
ACCREDITATION TO WORK, TEACH AND LEAD
The Catholic school community has a responsibility to establish supportive yet rigorous pathways for the preparation and ongoing professional development of teachers, particularly in Religious Education. This includes the professional and spiritual formation of all school staff and future leaders. Those who work in a Catholic school are responsible for introducing students to the mystery of Christ and the living tradition of the Church.
As such, the Work Teach and Lead Policy aims to assist employees to access programs which will enable them to achieve and maintain their appropriate accreditation. The following guidelines provide for the implementation of the policy for the faith education requirements of all permanent staff in Catholic schools in the Diocese and the Catholic Schools Office.
• There is an obligation for all permanent employees to obtain accreditation within a specific time frame, normally four (4) years.
• All full time and part-time permanent staff are required to achieve the level appropriate to their position.
• Provisional Accreditation will be provided to staff who are working towards the requirements for full accreditation at Category D and E.
• There is an obligation to maintain ongoing currency of accreditation for the level appropriate to their position.
There is an expectation that staff will undertake some ongoing faith development each year towards fulfilling the currency requirements. It is highly desirable that casual and temporary teachers be appropriately accredited. Casual and temporary teachers are welcome to participate in Accreditation courses at their own expense, provided spaces are available. Appropriate documentation will need to be kept by individual casual and temporary teachers regarding attendance at any accreditation courses inspired by pastoral mission.
For further information, please access our AWTL site here
The table below describes the five accreditation categories:
Category Description
Category A:
Accreditation to Work
Category B:
Accreditation to Teach
Category C: Accreditation for Leadership
CSO Professional Officers, all School Support Staff, Pastoral Care Workers, and all CSO Administration Staff.
Teaching staff (including Teacher Librarians) who do not teach Religious Education.
Category D: Accreditation to Teach Religion
Middle Leaders (Leaders of Learning, Leaders of Wellbeing and Engagement, Secondary Administration Coordinators and all CSO Education Leaders and Officers)
Category E: Accreditation for Senior Leadership
Leaders of Learning Religious Education and all permanent Teachers of Religion (Primary and Secondary)
System appointed Senior Leaders (Head of Schools, Assistant Heads of Schools, Principal, Assistant Principal, Religious Education Coordinator and Ministry Coordinator, Religious Education and Spirituality Services Education Officers) in a Catholic school and within the CSO Leadership Team.
45 hours + Tertiary Study in RE / Theology (see p.28-29)
75 hours + Tertiary Study in RE / Theology (see p.28-29)
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DR GREG ELLIOTT
Executive General Manager - Quality and Performance, Catholic Schools of Parramatta Diocese
In 2025, embark on a journey with us for our System Formation Day titled “Pilgrims of Hope,” where we will delve into our essential role in Catholic education as sources of inspiration and support for our communities. Together, we will explore new ways to nurture faith, foster growth, and build a brighter future for all.
Venue: San Clemente High School, Mayfield
Limited capacity. To register your school’s interest and for further information, please contact ryan.gato@mn.catholic.edu.au
FAITH STORY WITNESS (MODULE A) | 5 HOURS
A workshop day for staff that introduces them to the story and vision of our Diocese. It provides an opportunity to learn of our deep connection with Aboriginal spirituality, the history and development of Catholic education in Maitland-Newcastle, as well as exploring the rich charisms found within our schools. Drawing upon the shared wisdom and experience of the participants, the program offers a variety of reflections and activities that examine how they are part of the Christian story and its mission.
Temporary staff release available on a case-by-case basis.
Dates: 11 March, 13 June and 7 November
Venue: Catholic Schools Office Newcastle-West
Contact: Jonathan McCallum | jon.mccallum@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential.
One day release for all permanent staff is provided.
THE CATHOLIC EDUCATOR (MODULE B) | 5 HOURS
The aim of this program is to build on the experience of Module A: Faith Story Witness in helping teachers of all ages and subjects to realise the importance of their role in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. Staff will interact with up-to-date research, contemplative dialogue, prayer, and discussion to build on their previous understanding towards a deeper appreciation of their critical role in our Catholic schools.
Dates: 9 May and 21 October
Venue: Catholic Schools Office Newcastle-West
Contact: Adam Frost | adam.frost@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential.
One day release for all permanent staff is provided.
WELLSPRINGS –
INTRODUCTION TO LEADERSHIP AS ENCOUNTER (MODULE C) | 5 HOURS
This module is for those undertaking Category C: Accreditation to Lead. All staff aspiring to or holding leadership positions in Catholic schools have a crucial role to play in the faith leadership of their Catholic school community. This module provides an opportunity for leaders to reflect on their understanding of leadership in a Catholic school context as well as providing some tools for the journey of leading and decision making ‘from and for the community of faith’.
Dates: 20 August
Venue: Catholic Schools Office Newcastle-West
Contact: Adam Frost | adam.frost@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential.
One day release for all permanent staff is provided.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN THE CATHOLIC SCHOOL (MODULE D) | 5 HOURS
Formally known as ‘The K-12 RE Syllabus,’ this day is an introduction to Religious Education in the context of the Catholic School, with a particular focus on the local diocesan Religion curriculum. The readings, reflections, and activities in this module assist staff to appreciate the purpose of Religious Education through identifying the principles that underpin its teaching. Staff will recognise what quality learning in RE is about and will engage with the learning areas of the curriculum.
Dates: 3 April and 18 November
Venue: Catholic Schools Office Newcastle-West
Contact: Anne Heaney | anne.heaney@mn.catholic.edu.au
Erin McCort | erin.mccort@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential.
One day release for all permanent staff is provided.
pilgrims
DOORWAYS (BEGINNING TEACHERS RETREAT) *
A 3-part retreat series designed specifically for newly appointed teachers K-12 (permanent full-time and part-time, full-time temporary – casual staff on a case-by-case basis). This series is a sequential and intentional program providing opportunities for staff to explore and deepen their own personal faith, as well as engage in the various expressions of Catholic life.
PHASE 1: COME AND SEE (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
Jesus as doorway.
This program invites teachers new to working in Catholic Education to come and see what makes Catholic education different from other systems. It poses the question from Jesus to each participant: “Who do you say I am?” This is the doorway to understanding the Catholic School’s Office Vision statement.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 15 October 5pm and concludes Friday 17 October 3pm
Venue: Riverwood Downs
Contact: Adam Frost | adam.frost@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential. Release for all permanent staff is provided.
PHASE 2: LIVING WATERS (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS (by invitation)
The Church as doorway.
Part two builds on this understanding and explains the sacramental aspect of the vocation of teaching and how it relates to God’s mission and the mission of the Church.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 25 June 5pm and concludes Friday 27 June 3pm
Venue: Riverwood Downs
Contact: Adam Frost | adam.frost@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential. Release for all permanent staff is provided.
PHASE 3: GO AND DO (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS (by invitation)
The Teacher as doorway.
Part three explores the importance of the person of the teacher. It assists each educator to explore what the Church asks of you in this role and how she blesses your vocation. It links the civic, educational and ecclesial context, assisting each person to develop a personal theology of teaching.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 6 August 5pm and concludes Friday 8 August 3pm
Venue: Riverwood Downs
Contact: Adam Frost | adam.frost@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential. Release for all permanent staff is provided.
GUIDING LIGHTS (MIDDLE LEADERS RETREAT) * (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
A retreat designed specifically for those who currently hold middle leadership positions (Category C) in schools. These include positions such as Leaders of Learning, Leaders of Wellbeing and Engagement, Primary Coordinators, Pedagogical Mentors, Gifted Education Mentors, Secondary Administration Coordinators and others who liaise and work between school leadership and teaching staff.
This retreat aims to deepen the spiritual and leadership capacities of our middle leaders, nurturing their personal qualities and skills grounded in Catholic values to navigate their roles with faith and compassion. Participants will explore topics such as servant leadership, ethical decision-making, and fostering Catholic school communities. Through prayer, reflection, and community-building, leaders will gain the confidence and insight needed to guide their teams to cultivate a Christ-centered environment.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 29 October 5pm and concludes Friday 31 October 3pm
Venue: St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Centre, Kincumber
CONTEMPLATIVE RETREAT (2 DAYS, 1 NIGHT) | 8 HOURS
‘God’s imagination is waiting to be discovered, hiding everywhere and in everyone.’ This overnight retreat is an opportunity for staff to explore fully the fundamental grace of God that lies hidden in the world – in the routine of daily living, in all human experience, in the totality of creation. It introduces participants to the principles of awareness, deep listening, and contemplation as essential for “hearing” what Scripture has to say.
Dates: Commences Thursday 1 May 5pm and concludes Friday 2 May 3pm
Venue: Riverwood Downs
Contact: Ann Thurgate | ann.thurgate@mn.catholic.edu.au
Release: Approval by Principal is essential. Release for all permanent staff is provided.
WE ARE CALLED – AND WE ARE CHALLENGED (SENIOR LEADERS RETREAT)
A three-part retreat series designed for newly appointed senior leaders. They examine the relevance of faith and the contested concept of the Catholic school as a faith community in postmodern, multicultural Australia. It aims to explore faith leadership as a way of sharing the Catholic faith with the intention of influencing and enriching the lives of students, staff, and other members of the school community.
For those leaders who participated in Phase 1 or 2 in 2024, you are invited to attend the next retreat in 2025.
PHASE 1: TO MAKE MUSIC (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
Newly appointed leaders are challenged to combine their best professional selves with their most mature spiritual character, through an encounter with the person of Jesus.
This program engages in current leadership and theological research, prayer, personal reflection, formational reading, and rich conversation. Leaders will explore the challenges to ecclesial belonging and unpack its critical importance in light of their communities.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 27 August 5pm and concludes Friday 29 August 3pm
Venue: St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Centre, Kincumber
Contact: Ryan Gato | ryan.gato@mn.catholic.edu.au
PHASE 2: FROM SENTINEL TO ARCHITECT (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
The second part of the retreat series closely examines those Vatican documents concerned with the nature and purpose of Catholic schools. Spanning across five decades, participants will identify and articulate the five clear statements that consistently emerge and are strongly reinforced. Significant time is also given to formative reading, personal reflection, and thoughtful conversations with colleagues.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 18 June 5pm and concludes Friday 20 June 3pm
Venue: St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Centre, Kincumber
Contact: Ryan Gato | ryan.gato@mn.catholic.edu.au
PHASE 3: FROM ARCHITECT TO PROPHET (3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
Keynote Presenter: Professor David Hall fms (Dean, La Salle Academy for Faith Formation and Religious Education)
Leaders are called beyond themselves into a view towards eternity, through an exploration of a lens for faith leadership using ‘Theological Reflection’ and the research of Br David Hall: God Conscious Decision Making.’ This assists all leaders to ‘remember’ that we lead from and for faith. Therefore, all actions and decision making, policies and practices are conducted through the process of theological reflection.
This final retreat identifies the ‘call to holiness’ in everyday work and life and unpacks the significant and beautiful Catholic Principles which underpin the work of the Church in Catholic schools.
Dates: Commences Wednesday 26 March 5pm and concludes Friday 28 March 3pm
Venue: St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Centre, Kincumber
Contact: Ryan Gato | ryan.gato@mn.catholic.edu.au
the future
”WE MUST FAN THE FLAME OF HOPE THAT HAS BEEN GIVEN TO US AND HELP EVERYONE TO GAIN NEW STRENGTH AND CERTAINTY BY LOOKING TO THE FUTURE WITH AN OPEN SPIRIT, A TRUSTING HEART AND FARSIGHTED VISION.” POPE FRANCIS
MOREE
‘MAKARATTA’ IMMERSION
This immersion experience explores the historical context of the massacres that occurred to the Aboriginal people in Myall Creek and reflects on the spiritual significance of the site. During these days, participants will develop an appreciation of community engagement as a means of reconciliation, healing, and truth-telling.
Dates: Commences Monday 7 July 9am and concludes Thursday 10 July 3pm (4 DAYS, 3 NIGHTS) | 15 HOURS
Contact: Jonathan McCallum | jon.mccallum@mn.catholic.edu.au
LITURGY SYMPOSIUM
Immerse yourself in our ‘Liturgical Symposium,’ a full-day event focused on the essentials of planning impactful school liturgies. This day will feature engaging presentations from experienced liturgists, interactive workshops, and opportunities for meaningful discussions. This a unique chance to deepen your understanding and enhance your skills in creating liturgical experiences that are suitable and accessible for all in our school communities. Filled with prayer and music, the symposium will foster a great sense of community and enliven our spirits .
Dates: 13 August
Venue: TBC
LET’S TALK LITURGY SERIES
Join us for the new ‘Let’s Talk Liturgy’ series, where we’ll meet once a term online to discuss all things liturgy. Each session will feature special guests who have extensive experience in the liturgical space, offering unique insights and perspectives. All who are interested are welcome to attend.
Dates: Term 1 - 10 April (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 2 - 3 July (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 3 - 21 August (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
Term 4 - 20 November (3.30pm - 4.30pm)
ONE CALL, ONE MISSION: PILGRIMS OF HOPE | 5 HOURS
This formation program aims to inspire and strengthen individuals by fostering a spirit of hope and trust in the future. Drawing from Pope Francis’ call to look forward with open hearts and farsighted vision, the program emphasises the importance of perseverance and faith, even in challenging times. Rooted in the 200-year history of Catholic education in Australia, which partners with families and parishes to create communities of belonging and solidarity, the program also draws on the mission of Catholic schools to foster growth in the Gospel spirit and embrace all seeking faith-based education.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 3 and 4.
CALLING AND GIFT (VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT RENEWAL) | 5 HOURS
For Vision and Mission statements to be truly ‘living and lived’ in the life of the school, they must be carefully crafted and reflective of the school as they are now, as well as the school they seek to become. This staff formation day will form part of a SIP process (Catholic Culture SIP Priority Area) that enables school communities time to reflect and discern where the Holy Spirit is guiding them as intentional Catholic communities. Together, staff will hear all the voices of their community and coconstruct new statements that honour the achievements of the past, while charting a fresh vision for the future.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 2.
BEGIN WITH THE HEART: CONTEMPLATION FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATORS |
According to Daniel O’Leary, “You teach who you are.” With a lens of faith and a sacramental imagination (God’s presence in every moment, person and thing), we bring a deeper and authentic dimension to all our encounters in the everyday moments of school life. This time of reflection, stillness, wonder and contemplation explores possibilities in “what is good, what is true and what is beautiful” for our work of mission with students, fellow staff and their families. Three sessions for the day focus “Heart, Vision and Imagination.”
CIIT Focus: Dimension 1, 2, 3 & 5.
ENCOUNTERING SCRIPTURE | 5 HOURS
Our desire for God and wholeness is a journey towards freedom and an uncovering of what it means to be human. It calls us to examine the brevity and meaning of our lives, to reveal how all life is interconnected, and to consider how Scripture is the primary and honoured expression of God’s self-revelation. This program will explore how Scripture is a means of God’s self-revelation to us, and how we can come to know God more fully through the words of the Bible.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 1, 3 and 5.
ESTABLISHING HARMONY: THE IMPLICATIONS OF ‘LAUDATO SI’ | 5 HOURS
This program enables participants to grow in awareness of the impact and implications of the disconnect and disharmony that we experience within ourselves, others, God and with creation. Exploring Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si, we will look at its significance for Catholic education and how it can guide our strategic goals and actions, as well as redefine our relationship with our common home.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 4.
TEACH US TO PRAY | 5 HOURS
Based on the familiar line of scripture from Luke 11:1, this program explores the nature and purpose lifting mind and heart to God. It considers how prayer is an encounter with God and leads us to solidarity and transformation. Participating in a series of prayer workshops, staff will draw on ancient practices and traditions, as well as contemporary mediums to express and draw closer to the
This program explores the meaning behind the indigenous term Kurunpa, which refers to spirituality, soul, and psyche. Connected to the concept of Kanyini, used by several language groups in central Australia (Pitjantjatjara and Pintubi/Lugitja), it aims to conceptualise the expression ‘to have, to hold, and to care.’ Engaging in a pedagogy of ‘See, Judge, Act,’ participants will consider how to approach Christian action in light of the 2008 “Stolen Generations Apology.”
CIIT Focus: Dimension 3 and 4.
FLOW ON LIKE A RIVER: CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING | 5 HOURS
This day enables staff to reflect on the nature and purpose of the social teachings of the Catholic Church, including: The Dignity of the Human Person, Solidarity and The Option for the Poor. Staff will contemplate their origins and meaning and how they inform and guide not only our social justice action, but the passionate call to act justly and participate in building God’s Kingdom in the here and now. We will also use the theological reflection model “See, judge, Act” to apply CST to real situations in the life of the school.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 4.
GOD’S MISSION HAS A SCHOOL | 5 HOURS
This program enables staff to contemplate and respond to the ‘story’ we are telling through Catholic education as cooperating with God in realising God’s dream for all creation. This ‘reign of God’ is a mission of radical love in which all are invited to participate, and where everything and everyone belongs! Schools can work with the facilitator to customise this day for their school in response to their SIP priority, with opportunities for building capacity and sharing in the work of embedding the Charism, Vision and Mission, student formation opportunities or Catholic Social Teachings etc into the life of their school. Schools selecting this program will have previously engaged in related formation and work as part of their SIP goal and Priority area.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 2, 3 & 4.
MAKING ALL THINGS NEW: CATHOLIC SCHOOLS AS WHOLEMAKERS | 5 HOURS
“The world is a mirror of the Divine. It is also a book in which the Trinity shines forth. Every grain of sand, every star, every earthworm, and every flower reflects the power, wisdom and goodness of God. The world, therefore is sacramental; it is a symbolic world full of signs of God’s presence. Catholicity is a consciousness of divine presence, an awareness of divine love throughout the whole of life” (Ilia Delio). What does it mean to live and teach with a ‘Sacramental consciousness’?
In this formation experience, we will reclaim the meaning of “catholic” (‘according to the whole’) as we explore the meaning of Trinity, incarnation, Kingdom and sacramentality, whilst giving context to the great work of ‘whole-making’ being done every day in our schools.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 3.
RENEW AND REFRESH: FORMATION FOR SCHOOL RETREAT STAFF | 2 HOURS
A 2-hour program that aims to skill and form new or experienced school retreat staff in how to design, deliver and offer effective student-based retreats. Drawing on contemporary research, we consider where young people currently encounter God in their lives and how to best foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 1, 2 and 3.
THE WORK OF THE PEOPLE: PREPARING LITURGY AND COMMUNITY PRAYER | 2 HOURS
This 2-hour workshop enables staff to reflect on the meaning and purpose of liturgy and prayer in their Catholic school. What is God already doing in our lives prompts us to respond with Word, symbol and Sacrament as a gathered community (the Body of Christ) that draws us closer to our union with God? How do we celebrate and why? How do we include those in our community who are not familiar with Catholic traditions and liturgy? This workshop can be adapted to suit each school context and depending on need, can be extended over 2 sessions of 2 hours each.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 1.
PATHWAYS TO MYSTERY: NURTURING WONDER AND IMAGINATION IN THE HEART OF EACH CHILD | 2 HOURS
Jesus understood that children have their own spirituality, their own special way of encountering with God. “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” Luke 18:16. This workshop enables staff to develop shared beliefs and practices on how we ‘behold’ and value each child in our care, as well as how to understand their special ways through awe, wonder and imagination. We will engage with Scripture, contemplative spiritual writers and James McEvoy’s (CESA) stimulus paper, “Children, Close to the Mystery of God.” Bring your stories and the stories of your students, as we articulate a vision we can celebrate and share as a point of difference to our community.
CIIT Focus: Dimension 1, 2, 3 & 5.
aMeN camino | 5 DAYS OR WEEKEND
The aMeN caMiNo is a response to a desire to be in communion with each other and our sacred earth. It is an opportunity to pause from routine, immerse in reflection, contemplation and to provide a moment of space for each person to be conscious of God’s gift of Grace.
The aMeN caMiNo takes place over five consecutive days. The pilgrimage starts at St John’s Chapel, Maitland and concludes at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Hamilton. Pilgrims will walk an average of 20km per day through the beautiful landscape of bush, beach and beyond which we are blessed to have in our backyard.
Dates: 5 Day Pilgrimage | 6-10 August
2 Day Pilgrimage | 6-7 September
Contact: Rose McAllister | rose.mcallister@mn.catholic.org.au
ART AND SPIRITUALITY WORKSHOP
Creation of art provides an opportunity for a deepening awareness of oneself and the world, and can act as a catalyst for evoking the Spirit. Art is a means to see-to-re-search and find the living meaning of what it means to open the heart. Everyone has the ability to create art, but in order for it to be theological, the artist needs to explore ways that it makes sense of faith. Opening the heart through art involves making meaning through the creation, then reflecting on the art itself and the unfolding the moment-to-moment direct experience of the process.
This day workshop will provide an opportunity to awaken the Spirit through the beauty of God’s creation, prayer, and reflection. Participants will engage in art making experiences which will nourish their faith.
Dates: Friday 4 April (9am-3pm) and Friday 12 September (9am-3pm)
Venue: Kilaben Bay Community Centre
Cost: $25 per person
Contact: Rose McAllister | rose.mcallister@mn.catholic.org.au
& ROME JUBILEE PILGRIMAGE St Paul
• Athens (2 nights) • Acropolis • Ancient Corinth • Kalambaka (2) • Meteora
• Berea • Thessaloniki (2) • Kavala • Ancient Philippi • Izmir (1) • Kusadasi (2)
• Ephesus • Island of Patmos (2) • Island of Samos (1) • Rome - Jubilee (4)
Embark on a 20-day pilgrimage tracing the footsteps of St. Paul and other revered saints, visiting pivotal biblical sites across Greece, Turkey, and Italy. From the ancient wonders of Athens and Corinth to the spiritual heights of Meteora and the holy grounds of Ephesus, each location offers a unique opportunity for deep spiritual reflection and connection to our rich Christian story. The pilgrimage culminates in Rome during the Jubilee Year, where pilgrims will experience the grace and blessings of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, uniting in faith and community. This pilgrimage promises to be a deeply enriching experience, fostering a renewed sense of faith and spiritual growth.
Date: Thursday 25 September – Sunday 12 October
Contact: Ryan Gato | ryan.gato@mn.catholic.edu.au
Available for both Primary and Secondary
A series of Professional Development opportunities designed to assist schools in Curriculum improvement through a variety of focus areas. Schools may wish to select options from the series most suited to their needs as a Twilight series throughout 2025 in lieu of the last day of Term 4. Alternatively, these can be tailored to a Staff Meeting or whole Day Professional Development. For further information or to discuss needs of your school which can be incorporated into any of these options contact the RE & S Curriculum Team.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT FOR RE (PRIMARY OR SECONDARY)
This session focuses on the purpose of assessment and the development of quality assessment for RE. It will incorporate practical opportunities for staff to design an assessment task for a current or upcoming module of work.
EFFECTIVE PROGRAMMING AND COMPLIANCE
This session is designed to improve effective programming in RE K-6 as well as develop teacher understanding of Diocesan requirements. This PL is to assist schools in developing agreed practices in Religious Education ensuring improved student outcomes across the school.
RE TEACHER SELF EFFICACY PROJECT
Additional support for schools can be tailored to suit individual needs and can be provided as follows:
• A staff meeting presentation for primary schools.
• A twilight or faculty meeting presentation for secondary RE teachers.
Contact: Kate Levido (Primary) | kate.levido@mn.catholic.edu.au Anne Heaney (Secondary) | anne.heaney@mn.catholic.edu.au
PREPARATION FOR SECONDARY RELIGIOUS LITERACY TESTING
Twilight workshops are available for any secondary schools who would like a session on any area being tested in 2025. Please contact either Anne Heaney or Erin McCort.
SCHOOL BASED NEED
Schools are invited to contact the primary and secondary curriculum team to discuss any identified school need which can be incorporated into any of the above sessions or a targeted focus session for your school can be developed.
Dates: By Request – Twilight session, Staff Meeting or Full Day.
Contact: Karli Chenery (Primary) | karli.chenery@mn.catholic.edu.au
Kate Levido (Primary) | kate.levido@mn.catholic.edu.au
Anne Heaney (Secondary) | anne.heaney@mn.catholic.edu.au
Erin McCort (Secondary) | erin.mccort@mn.catholic.edu.au
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN MISSION AND CULTURE
The diocese, in partnership with the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) will be offering the Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Catholic Culture in 2025. This innovative and integrated formation and education program is designed specifically to support the leadership development needs of the diocese.
This course was conceived for professionals in Catholic institutions and related agencies who wish to enhance their understanding of the Christian and Catholic context in which they exercise leadership.
It provides participants with the necessary higher-level skill sets to think theologically around their organisational leadership practices and to develop skills in the promotion of a Christian and specifically Catholic culture.
Dates: Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July Monday 22 September to Friday 26 September
Contact: Rose McAllister | rose.mcallister@mn.catholic.org.au
ADDITIONAL POSTGRADUATE STUDY OPTIONS
There are several courses, seminars, and programs available through Broken Bay Institute (BBI), Campion College Australia , The University of Notre Dame Australia and Australian Catholic University (ACU) to support school and CSO staff to achieve accreditation in the various categories. Information provided on this page is a guide only. Staff are strongly recommended to discuss possible programs of study with the RE&S team and their preferred university.
Staff may have the option of studying the following programs.
• Graduate Certificate in Religious Education (Primary or Secondary) (4 units)
• Master of Religious Education (12 units)
• Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies (4 units)
• Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies (8 units)
• Master of Theological Studies (16 units)
FINANCIAL SUPPORT OFFERED BY THE CSO
The CSO currently remunerates one-half (50%) of Accreditation to Teach Religion and Accreditation for Senior Leadership course fees for staff who are undertaking approved courses of study in RE/ Theology/Catholic Leadership and who are permanently employed in diocesan schools.
‘Study leave’ of one day per unit per semester is offered for those undertaking Accreditation to Teach Religion and Accreditation for Senior Leadership. Some casual release is provided for those undertaking accreditation modules in categories A to C.
To claim remuneration, staff should present a copy of their transcript and receipt of payment of fees after successful completion of each unit to the RE and Spirituality Services team to receive their remuneration. Reimbursement will only be available within two years of completion of each unit of study.
MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2025
HOW TO REGISTER
Registration for all programs and courses are to be made online and through the MN People platform. Registrations open midday on 11 February 2025. Instructions on how to register are below:
TO REGISTER
1. Go to https://cdmn.elmotalent.com.au/dashboard
2. Click on Learning
3. Use the Course Catalogue search page to find your course.
4. After finding the course you wish to attend, click on Sessions
5. Click Request on your preferred session. Please note, in the comment section you must include the date of your preferred session, and any other relevant information needed for your Principal/Manager to approve.
After you have received approval from your Principal/Manager via MNPeople:
6. Click on the course link in the email
7. Click on Sessions
8. Click Sign Up
General enquiries about bookings for staff programs should be directed to: re&s@mn.catholic.edu.au
CATHOLIC IDENTITY AND CATHOLIC CURRICULUM SITE
Please visit our website to access an extensive range of formation resources, prayer, RE curriculum material and much more: https://mncatholic.sharepoint.com