This March, the parish hall at Hunters Hill will come alive with reflection, conversation, and inspiration as Catalyst for Renewal presents a special luncheon, ‘Reasons for Hope’.
Drawing from the collated Hélder Câmara Lectures – a series of lectures hosted in Melbourne by Newman College, and coordinated by Br Mark O’Connor FMS, Marist Brother and Vicar for Communications in the Diocese of Parramatta, the luncheon invites Catholics and friends of the Church to explore what gives faith its enduring strength in challenging times.
The event also marks the recent 40th anniversary of the lecture series, celebrating decades of insight and inspiration from this remarkable collection.
The guest speaker, historian and author, Julie Thorpe, holds a PhD from the University of Adelaide and has held academic appointments and research fellowships in Germany and Australia. She is well known for her insightful writings on the Church, including her acclaimed book, Reasons for Hope: Hélder Câmara, Global Catholicism and the Australian Church.
As noted by Vatican Correspondent Christopher Lamb, her work provides a rich tapestry of insights into the Catholic Church, while Fr Frank Brennan SJ described it as “a lively, contemporary commemorative history”. Julie is also a Catalyst member and producer of The Big Tent with Geraldine Doogue.
Attendees will enjoy a light lunch, hear Julie speak, and have the opportunity to purchase copies of Reasons for Hope, available on the day or through Garratt Publishing.
About Catalyst for Renewal
Catalyst for Renewal was created by a small group with a big mission: to create spaces where Catholics could engage openly, reflect deeply, and learn from the rich diversity of faith in Australia, inspired by the spirit of Pope John XXIII and the vision of Vatican II.
From humble beginnings, Catalyst grew, bringing people together in cafés, parish halls, and lecture spaces. Through initiatives like Spirituality in the Pub, Bishop’s Forums, Reflection Mornings, and Q&A sessions, people could dwell with one another, listen, and be transformed.
Today, Catalyst continues to nurture these encounters across NSW and Victoria and online, helping Catholics explore their faith, share their stories, and find renewal in the encounter with others.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 14 March 2026
Time: 12:30pm–2:30pm
Location: Holy Name of Mary Parish Hall, Hunters Hill (Cnr Mary Street & Gladesville Road)
Tickets: $35 per person
Reservations are essential. Guests are encouraged to indicate any dietary requirements or seating preferences, with table groups of 6 or 8 available. RSVP by 7 March 2026 via TryBooking or by contacting Catalyst for Renewal.
Join us for an afternoon of dialogue, reflection, and inspiration as we celebrate the enduring hope at the heart of our faith.
Download the flyer: Catalyst for Renewal
