Priests act as a bridge between God and humanity, and as Pope Benedict XVI explained, the priest’s mission is “to link these two realities that appear to be so separate…to bring human beings to God, to His redemption, to His true light, to His true life.”

In 2025, the Perth Vocations Office was privileged to work with five Catholic schools across Western Australia, each offering a unique opportunity for students to reflect on God’s call in their lives.

Founded by St Jeanne Jugan in 1839, the Sisters dedicate themselves to the care of the elderly poor—ensuring that no one dies alone, but is accompanied with dignity, compassion, and love, as if they were Christ Himself.

As they reflect on their 55 years together, both Kevin and Kate shared their insights as to the challenges they see facing modern marriages, noting what they see as perhaps a lack of experience and pressures of a throw-away society.

These houses of formation for the priesthood are pivotal in supplying the Archdiocese and abroad with priests for pastoral ministry.

The annual initiative is part of a broader movement across Australia to foster a cul-ture of discernment and openness to God’s plan in their lives, whether it be through priesthood, religious life, marriage, or single blessedness.

To Be Formed a Priest, writes Perth Priest and former Director of Vocations, Rev Dr Armando Carandang, is to become configured to Jesus Christ. Originally published in The Record in 2004, Fr Armando looks deeply at the areas of formation, with particular focus on “Pastores Dabo Vobis” by now St John Paul II.

At the centre of the story is Peter, portrayed with depth and humanity by Edmond Whyte. His journey of doubt, denial, and eventual devotion gave the audience a moving lens through which to experience the life and ministry of Jesus.

In a joyful celebration highlighting dedication, faith, and community spirit, Sister Rafaele Amelie of the Little Sisters of the Poor commemorated the Golden Jubi-lee of her religious profession. The celebration took place on Saturday 12 July at the Little Sisters’ Home in Glendalough, bringing together residents, fellow sis-ters, clergy, friends, and members of the Samoan community to celebrate her milestone.

Celebrating the Centenary Mass for Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Maylands, Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe emphasised that the invitation offered by Jesus—“Come to me all you who are weary and sorrowful and I will refresh you with the waters of eternal life”—remains just as relevant today as it did a century ago. By Jamie O’Brien.