Qwayne Guevara, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference’s Facilitator for Formation and Young People, has been appointed to advise a global prayer network recognised by the Vatican.
Qwayne – who joined the Conference secretariat in 2025 after serving in the Diocese of Parramatta for eight and a half years – will be a member of the youth committee of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.
The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network began its life in 1844 as a commitment by a group of young Jesuits in France.
In 1861, the Messenger of the Heart of Jesus began connecting millions of people across continents and in 1879, Pope Leo XIII introduced the practice of a monthly prayer intention.
In 2014, Pope Francis approved a renewed identity – the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network – which was officially recognised as a Pontifical Work four years later and became a Vatican Foundation in 2020.
The network, entrusted to the Society of Jesus, now spans 90 countries and is a global community of over 22 million people.
Through the committee, Ms Guevara will offer reflection and guidance on the network’s mission and leadership.
The chair of the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry, Archbishop Christopher Prowse, said: “In a world marked by division and uncertainty, the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network offers a simple yet profound way for people to participate in the mission of the Church.
“Through prayer, reflection and action inspired by the Pope’s monthly intentions, the faithful are invited to grow as witnesses to Christ’s love,” he said.
“I congratulate Qwayne on her appointment and am sure she will nurture spiritual renewal and belonging, especially among our young people.”
Qwayne said: “I am humbled by this appointment and delighted to serve alongside my fellow committee members in support of the mission of this Pontifical Work, in service of the Holy Father and the Church.
“I hope that the network will continue to draw on its rich history and inspire young people to deepen their friendship with Jesus, grow as people of prayer, and bring His love and compassion into all corners of our world.”
