Education in Faith
Education in Faith
At Our Lady of Pentecost Parish, there are both ongoing and occasional programs that offer adults and young people opportunities to deepen their relationship with God and to grow in understanding and experience of faith, discipleship and the Catholic tradition.
Fr Frank O'Loughlin
Fr Frank O’Loughlin is a respected theologian and adult educator. Fr Frank researched and taught in the areas of fundamental theology, sacramental theology and liturgy in the Archdiocese of Melbourne for over 50 years.
In recent years, Fr Frank has written several books and continues to enrich our parish through his work in adult education and liturgy. He also contributes regularly to our weekly parish newsletter and celebrates Mass each week across our parish.
Fr Frank’s latest book is The Catholic Church: Into the Future and is available from Conventry Press. Read more…
Catechesis
Regular scripture and discussion groups are held throughout the year, along with special gatherings during significant times in the liturgical year, particularly during Lent and Advent.
Faith and Life Questions Group
The group is led by Rose Marie Prosser and covers a variety of topics, often featuring guest presenters, along with opportunities for thoughtful and engaging discussion. Meetings take place every couple of months on a Monday afternoon at 4.00 pm at either Our Holy Redeemer, Surrey Hills or Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Wattle Park.
Catechesis
Men’s Scripture Group
The group, led by Francis Bourke, offers a chance to come together and explore the Scripture readings of the day in a relaxed, group setting. Meetings are held at 10.00 am on the second Saturday of each month in the Parish Meeting Room at Our Lady of Victories, Camberwell.
Scripture Discussion Group
The small group gathers to reflect on the upcoming Sunday Gospel. The Gospel reading is shared, accompanied by a reflection or homily and several thought-provoking questions. The group meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm at Our Lady of Good Counsel, Deepdene.
Catholic Theological College
Catholic Theological College (CTC), located in East Melbourne, is a member of the University of Divinity. Throughout the academic year, CTC offers a variety of short courses and presentations that encourage participants to explore what it means to live as people of faith in today’s world.
We are fortunate to have CTC so close to us, with access to a remarkable group of talented and dedicated theologians, scripture scholars and religious educators.
For further information, visit the Catholic Theological College website.
Catechist Team
Our Sacraments Program across the parish guides children through their journey of Christian initiation into the Church, following on from their Baptism.
Members of the Catechist Team conduct programs for primary school-aged children attending government or independent schools who are baptised and are seeking to continue their initiation into the Catholic tradition.
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
Many adults are welcomed into the Catholic Church each year through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). The RCIA is also known as the Catechumenate, an early church term that recognises a Catechumen as a non-baptised person preparing for Baptism and initiation into the Catholic Church.
The RCIA offers a way to grow in knowledge of Christ and the Catholic faith in company with others on a similar journey. A small group of parishioners (the RCIA Team) are entrusted as catechists, mentors and sponsors for those who have approached us. Through their constant support and willingness to share their faith, they are living witnesses of the Good News. Find out more about the RCIA process
Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC) in most instances applies to children and young people, generally of school age, who have not been baptised. The RCIC program can also provide assistance to those children who wish to prepare to receive the sacraments they have missed since Baptism, or who are seeking to join the Catholic Church.
The RCIC team includes not only the catechist and the child/young person but also parents and/or guardian of the participant as appropriate. The preparation is designed for both student and parent participation, and is intended to support family catechesis. Find out more about the RCIC process
Further Information
If you are interested in finding out more about these learning opportunities, contact the Parish Office on 9816 9291 or at [email protected]