LA RE Congress 2024

My recent 10-day journey to Los Angeles alongside 13 colleagues from the LismoreDiocese was a spiritually enriching and transformative experience. The focal point of our trip was the four-day LA Religious Education Congress, a gathering of over 10 thousand faith-filled individuals that left a lasting impact on my perspective. The collective energy and commitment of the participants instilled in me a renewed hope for the Church, fostering a sense of community and belonging that can sometimes be elusive.

Travelling and bonding with the diverse group of teachers and leaders from Lismore proved to be a highlight in itself. The camaraderie among us not only provided a platform for networking and mentorship but also deepened our individual faith experiences. The connections forged during the trip, through shared stories, experiences, and discussions, created a supportive environment that transcended geographical boundaries.

The LA experience unfolded with numerous highlights, each contributing to the overall richness of the journey. The visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels was particularly poignant, with its beautiful tapestries depicting saints and Gospel figures, subtly yet powerfully drawing us into a spiritual contemplation. 

Exploring Homeboy Industries and Homegirl Cafe, and hearing stories of resilience, hope, and determination, left an indelible impression on me. Homeboy Industries is the largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. It provides hope, training and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women, allowing them to redirect their lives and become contributing members of the community. 

At the 4 day Congress, the Masses and liturgies, keynote addresses and workshops featuring inspiring speakers like Fr Greg Boyle (founder of Homeboy Industries),
Fr Richard Leonard, Fr Tony Riccard, Sarah Hart, and Sr Sharlot Wagner, gave both inspiration and depth to the overall experience.

Throughout the Congress, with the theme of Be Loved, a common thread emerged—the power of storytelling. Much like the captivating tapestries in the Cathedral, the stories shared were compelling, and memorable, and fostered a sense of connection. These moments, woven with the fabric of faith, were some of the most cherished aspects of the entire experience.

Attending the LA RECongress offered me a beacon of hope for the Catholic community, a renewed sense of belonging and a rejuvenation of faith. The collective commitment witnessed at the event has provided me with valuable insights and experiences to share with my school community. As I reflect on the trip, it is evident that the power of story, shared faith experiences, and a sense of unity have left an enduring mark, shaping my perspective and renewing my commitment to both my personal and communal faith journey.

Kate Thomson
Principal