This year marks a remarkable and grace-filled moment for Holy Spirit Parish St Clair. For the first time in many years, the parish is witnessing a large number of people courageously responding to God’s invitation to enter more deeply into the life of the Church.
Through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), many catechumens and candidates received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Eucharist and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.
In the RCIA program this year, nine Elect were baptised and 18 candidates received Confirmation. In the RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) program, four were confirmed. It is truly a grace-filled year for the parish community.
Behind these numbers are personal journeys of faith.
For Peta, the journey began quietly through her work in a Catholic school. “My journey of faith began as a quiet curiosity when I first stepped into the halls of a Catholic primary school as a learning support officer…I felt a persistent tug at my soul, a calling toward something greater.” Through prayer and participation in the life of the school, that curiosity slowly became commitment. Reflecting on the Eucharist, she said: “The idea that we can physically and spiritually encounter God in such a tangible way was profound.”
For Elizabeth, the call came through both family encouragement and a spiritual longing. “What first led me to join the RCIA was the support of my sisters but also feeling spiritually pulled to join.” During a time of prayer and Bible study she experienced renewal: “It was like a flame in my heart lit up again,” she said.
Emeline also discovered a deeper relationship with Christ through the program. “Since joining the RCIA my faith and walk with Christ has become so much stronger than ever.” Learning about the Eucharist profoundly shaped her faith. “Understanding that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist made me realise how meaningful and sacred Mass really is,” she said.
For Wyona, the journey felt like awakening. “I feel like I had fallen asleep and I am now awake to his word, knowledge and wisdom.” The thought of being received into the Church at Easter moves her deeply: “Tears roll down my face… knowing that I will be received into the Church at the Easter Vigil,” she said before the ceremony.
Those who accompany the candidates also experience renewal. RCIA coordinator Moira reflects: “To see our Elect and Candidates stand at the altar and be welcomed into full communion with the Church… there are no words to express the emotion I feel except praise and glory to God.”
Godfather Vasco echoes this sentiment: “The enormity of Zavier’s decision struck me… it reminded me that God is always at work in our lives, always calling us to Him.”
Looking ahead, many of the candidates hope to remain actively involved in parish life after Easter. Peta hopes “to continue deepening my prayer life and perhaps contribute to the parish’s youth or sacramental programs,” and even assist others on their own RCIA journey. Wyona shares a similar desire: “I hope to continue strongly and to grow more in faith, religion and fellowship all led by the Holy Spirit and by our foundations of love, hope and charity.”
When asked what they would say to someone considering RCIA next year, their encouragement is simple and heartfelt.
Peta said: “If you feel even the slightest ‘tug’ or curiosity, just show up… RCIA isn’t a classroom; it’s a journey with a family who will walk beside you every step of the way.”
Wyona added simply: “Take the leap and let the Holy Spirit be your guidance.”
As the parish prepared for the Easter Vigil, these stories remind us that the Holy Spirit continues to work quietly but powerfully in the hearts of people. Truly, this is a beautiful sign of hope for the Church — and a joyful reminder that God is still calling people home.
Fr Percival Sevare OSA is Parish Priest at Holy Spirit Parish, St Clair.
The RCIA program supports the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Prayer, Mission and Formation, and the objective of being An inclusive and Welcoming Church. Visit Synodality to learn more.
This is an edited version of an article that was originally published in the Augustinian Magazine, March 2026 edition, Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel – Australasia.
