Redcliffe parish recorded its highest number of new Catholic entrants in years, with 15 individuals received into the faith during this year’s Easter celebrations.
Rise in Faith Engagement
Redcliffe’s Catholic community marked a significant increase in participation during Easter, as 12 catechumens and three candidates were formally received into the Church. This intake, described as the largest in recent memory, follows the addition of five other individuals who joined the parish in November.
The program through which they entered, known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), offers a structured path for those seeking to join the Catholic Church. Carried out within the local parish, the process involves regular sessions that support personal formation within the faith community.

Structured and Supportive Formation
Deacon Tim Shanahan, who has overseen the RCIA process alongside parish priest Fr Bob Harwood, noted that interest in the program has grown unexpectedly over the past year. Participants ranged in age, with several being young people.
Rather than delving deeply into every topic, the Redcliffe RCIA team aimed to provide accessible teachings supported by additional resources, allowing participants to explore further on their own. The parish focused on maintaining a welcoming environment, which leaders considered key to the program’s success.
Addressing Misconceptions
One of the recurring challenges identified among participants was confronting misinformation or prior teachings from other Christian traditions. According to Deacon Shanahan, several individuals had previously explored other denominations, and sessions that covered Church history were particularly impactful in offering clarity.

Parish and Community Support
The success of the RCIA program was attributed not only to parish leadership but also to support from figures such as Brigidine Sister Janette Marsh and other team members. The parish community’s encouragement was also evident online, where members welcomed the new entrants and reflected on their own RCIA experiences.
Several social media posts described the Easter Vigil as a moving and uplifting celebration. Fellow parishioners shared words of support and congratulated the group on their commitment.
Signs of Hope Amid Decline Elsewhere
At a time when many parishes across Australia are reporting declines in Mass attendance, Redcliffe’s growing numbers have been seen as a hopeful sign. Leaders viewed this renewed interest in the Catholic faith as an encouraging outcome for their local ministry.
Published 19-May-2025
