The seven participants in the Young Catholic Women’s Fellowship gathered in March in North Sydney for a retreat and intensive study weekend.

The retreat provided a structured day of prayer, formation and shared meals, designed to support the women’s ongoing personal and academic growth through the fellowship program.

The day began with an opportunity for participants to introduce themselves and share aspects of their faith journey. This initial session set the tone for the retreat, creating a space for prayer and silence with honest conversation and storytelling.

Participants also attended Mass together and visited the tomb of St Mary MacKillop.

Felicia Adikea from Adelaide reflected on the day, saying, “I particularly enjoyed the sense of community and openness among us. It was encouraging to spend time with women from different contexts who are all seeking to serve the Church with faith and courage.”

The program included formation talks with Rachael Kama, a lay Augustinian leader serving in the Diocese of Parramatta. Rachael presented on recognising and developing gifts for mission.

 “The biggest takeaway for me was seeing the beauty and sacredness of being a woman of God and of faith,” shared Darwin’s Natalie Lim.

“Our giftedness as women was so clear throughout the weekend, and to never be ashamed of our identity as women.”

Dr Cristina Lledo Gomez, a senior lecturer in Theology at BBI‑The Australian Institute of Theological Education, offered practical insights on approaching theological study. Both sessions were designed to equip participants with tools for discernment and reflection.

Following the retreat, participants continued their formation with an intensive program over the weekend as part of Australian Catholic University’s ‘Women’s Leadership for Mission’ course.

Alyssa Markmann from Canberra reflected on how the experience shaped her ongoing journey through the fellowship: “All of us are unique and have charisms that make us the people we are,” she said. “I want to continue to discern these for myself to truly feel God in my life as consistently as the other girls do.”

The weekend highlighted the importance of structured spaces for young women in the Church to come together for formation in community. The National Centre for Evangelisation looks forward to continuing to support initiatives like this, which provide opportunities for young Catholic women to deepen their engagement with the Church’s mission.

Words and Images: Qwayne Guevara