Rotorua formation day focuses on teaching and living faith

The event, titled “Teacher to Witness”, welcomed 57 participants involved in RCIA, RCIC, Children’s Liturgy, Baptism and sacramental preparation. The formation day was hosted by St Mary’s, Rotorua on August 23.

Alison Carroll, faith formation manager at Hamilton Diocese, reflected on the role of catechists in echoing Christ, beginning first with deep listening – through prayer and relationship with Jesus. From this place of encounter, she said, the love of God and God’s Church can be shared with authenticity, grace and respect.

“Courses don’t make disciples. Disciples make disciples,” she told the gathering, quoting Fr James Mallon, the founder of Divine Renovation Ministry.

Jil Yong, youth office manager at Hamilton Diocese, presented the “Connect – Grow – Serve” model of discipleship based on US formator Sherry Weddell’s “Thresholds of Conversion”, encouraging a relational approach to ministry and highlighting the power of personal witness.

Bishop Richard Laurenson celebrated Mass, grounding the day in prayer and unity. Participants also shared the fruits and challenges of ministry during small group discussion and a panel session.

The day concluded with a renewed sense of purpose. Participant Mike Baird said he left the formation day feeling encouraged and inspired. He said it wasn’t just a day of talks; it was a day packed with real gems to take home. One example was: “The agenda of evangelisation is simply to love people with the love of Jesus.” 

FULL STORY

Teacher to Witness: Formation Day in Rotorua (Clearly/Catholic Diocese of Hamilton)

Teacher to Witness: A Day for Training and Equipping for Formation (Clearly/Catholic Diocese of Hamilton)

Sherry Anne Weddell (Catherine of Siena Institute)

Father James Mallon