By Joseph Younes
Founded in 2019, Godly Women with Faith was founded with the aim of bringing the Perth Catholic community closer to Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
Founder Kathleen Highfield speaks with journalist Joseph Younes about her journey and the role of GWWF in the Perth Catholic community.
Kathleen, could you share a bit about yourself, your faith journey, and the parish you belong to?
I come from a strong Catholic family and have attended Lockridge Parish since we moved to Perth in 1988. My love for Jesus has shaped my life profoundly.
My professional background includes roles in administration, business, and event planning, alongside running my beauty and style business, The Glam Boss.
Beyond work, I am an author, cake decorator, designer, and artist. I love painting, DIY projects, dancing, gardening, and spending time with family, especially my niece and nephew.
Giving back is a core value—I’ve volunteered as a Radio Lollipop entertainer and currently mentor high school students.
Last year, I fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a fashion designer, creating a Show Stopper piece inspired by Our Lady, Star of the Sea.
My faith continues to guide me, and the Ministry has become a central part of my journey.
What inspired you to start Godly Women with Faith, and how has the Holy Spirit guided you along the way?
Godly Women with Faith (GWWF) was founded in 2019 to bring Jesus and Mary to as many people as possible. I felt called to share the Gospel, novenas, and prayers, particularly through my online platform and podcast.
While praying the Novena to Our Lady of Loreto in May 2024, the Holy Spirit prompted me to start a podcast. Around the same time, I recalled an idea to create a women’s group.
Everything seemed to align, confirming this was God’s plan. GWWF has since grown into a community where women support one another in faith and spiritual growth.
Your ministry received a blessing from Bishop Don Sproxton in 2024—what did that moment mean for you and the community?
Meeting Bishop Don Sproxton was a humbling experience. He was incredibly welcoming and kind, which reassured me that this ministry was part of God’s plan.
A profound moment occurred before our meeting—I had been reflecting on Haggai 2:18-19, which spoke of the 24th day of the ninth month … “I the Lord will bless you”, the exact date of my meeting with Bishop Don Sproxton. This passage affirmed that God was guiding the Ministry’s foundation.
Your upcoming event, Praise, Prayer, and Paint, blends faith and creativity. What inspired this unique concept?
The idea started with a simple suggestion for a painting session. I realised that art can be a powerful way to connect with faith, so I developed Praise, Prayer, and Paint to blend worship, reflection, and artistic expression.
It’s a space where women can experience the spiritual benefits of creativity while deepening their relationship with God.
What can women expect when they attend the event? Is it open to all, regardless of artistic ability?
Yes! Praise, Prayer, and Paint is open to all Catholic women in Perth aged 18 and over. No artistic experience is needed.
The event includes praise and worship, quiet reflection on Psalm 23, and a guided painting session where participants invite the Holy Spirit to inspire their creativity. It’s a powerful and uplifting experience.
How do you see art as a form of prayer and a way to deepen one’s relationship with God?
Art becomes a form of prayer when we invite God into the creative process.
By beginning with worship and Scripture reflection, we create a spiritual atmosphere where participants can connect with God beyond words.
Painting can be a form of meditation, allowing for deep reflection and a more intimate dialogue with Him.
What has been the most rewarding part of building this ministry so far?
Meeting incredible Catholic women and seeing the Ministry positively impact their faith has been the greatest blessing.
It amazes me that God entrusted me with this vision, which began in 2016 and has now come to life in 2024.
Knowing that even one woman is touched by the Holy Spirit through this Ministry makes all the hard work worthwhile.
How can women in Perth get involved with Praise, Prayer, and Paint and GWWF in general?
Aside from Praise, Prayer, and Paint, we offer free online talks and a Consecration to Jesus through Our Lady, which deeply impacted my life.
We also have in-person gatherings in May, August, and November. To get involved, visit www.godlywomenwithfaith.com/eventstalkscourses/.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Godly Women with Faith?
I hope GWWF becomes a strong, supportive community where women grow in faith, build lasting relationships, and uplift one another.
I envision mentoring opportunities for younger women and expanding our programs and resources.
Ultimately, I trust God to guide the Ministry’s evolution, shaping it to meet the spiritual needs of women at every stage of their journey.