Parish Renewal Team holds online gatherings for RCIA and Sacramental teams

The Parish Renewal Team held two online gatherings this spring for leaders of RCIA and sacramental teams in the Archdiocese of Sydney. The sessions, held on August 26 and September 23, brought together more than 50 leaders at each meeting to discuss how to prioritize personal relationships over programs when welcoming new members to the Church.

Mission Leader Tania Rimac and coordinator Varun Perera led the meetings. Rimac stated that the Church must be ready to welcome those seeking the faith immediately to ensure they feel wanted. She noted that the first connection should focus on the heart and building relationships.

The gatherings included practical training from leaders at All Saints parish in Liverpool. Christine Solomon shared insights on leading RCIA sessions, while Pina Bernard spoke about preparing children for the sacraments. These teams often serve as the first point of contact for people entering the Church, including those responding to the archdiocese's online inquiry page, which receives more than 10 inquiries every week.