Faithful gather for Rite of Elect at St Christopher’s Cathedral

On March 9, more than 25 catechumens and candidates gathered at St. Christopher’s Haydon Hall in Manuka for the Rite of Elect. This significant Lenten event, attended by their families, sponsors, and parish communities, marked an important step in their preparation to receive the sacraments of initiation at Easter.

Neighbour’s quiet faith inspires couple’s Catholic journey

For Tracy and Derryn McKay of Yass, the Rite of Elect gathering was more than an event; it was a deeply significant turning point in their spiritual journey.

This milestone was shared with their cherished 91-year-old neighbour, Jean Kelly, whose presence and story have been a quiet but powerful influence.

A widow who has called Yass home since 1957, Jean lives a life defined by unwavering faith and kindness. Her example of quiet devotion has inspired her younger neighbours to not only explore but wholeheartedly embrace Catholicism.

“Jean’s influence has been life-changing,” Tracy shared.

“Her kindness, generosity, and how she lives her faith without any pressure or expectation really left an impression on us. She embodies what it means to be a person of faith.

When we first asked if we could attend Mass with her, her excitement and pride were overwhelming. It’s been a beautiful experience.”

Jean, who has sponsored Tracy and Derryn in their RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) program, is equally proud of the couple.

“She’s always so thrilled to see us actively participating. Even small things like going up for a blessing during Mass seem to bring her so much joy,” Derryn said.

“Her encouragement and the genuine friendship of the church community have been incredible.”

The couple, who moved to Yass eight years ago seeking a family-friendly environment, described how their initial curiosity about Christianity grew into a meaningful faith.

Guided by Jean’s example and the supportive atmosphere of the RCIA program, they found themselves drawn to the rich history, thought, and traditions of the Catholic Church.

“The RCIA program has been such a grounding experience, especially in a world that often feels so complex and unstable,” Tracy explained.

“The facilitators’ generosity and the Catholic community’s warmth have made us feel welcomed and truly at home. People have opened their homes and lives to us without any agenda, simply offering friendship and support.”

For Derryn, the sense of connection has been profoundly moving.

“When we first joined, we offered to sit at the back to avoid disrupting anything, but Jean insisted we sit with her. The kindness and inclusivity have been overwhelming. The parish has welcomed us as part of the family.”

The couple has embraced new aspects of faith, including their first experiences attending High Mass at St Christopher’s Cathedral, complete with incense and choir.

“It’s breathtaking,” Derryn shared. “There’s such depth and meaning in every ritual. With over 2,000 years, we’ve only scratched the surface but are eager to keep learning.”

Looking to the future, Tracy and Derryn plan to integrate their faith into their travels and everyday lives. “We’ve heard others in RCIA talk about aligning their travels with attending Mass, and it’s something we’re drawn to as well,” Derryn said. “It adds a whole new dimension to how we experience the world.”

Their faith has also deepened their drive to contribute to the well-being of others.

“We’ve always tried to be good people, but now there’s a stronger sense of purpose,” Tracy reflected. “We feel immensely grateful for our blessings and see it as our responsibility to actively help those who might need support.”

With Easter just weeks away, Tracy and Derryn’s enthusiasm is palpable as they prepare to officially join the Catholic Church. Their story is a testament to the quiet power of faith lived authentically and shared generously.

“It’s amazing to think that a simple friendship with our neighbour led us here,” Tracy said.

“Jean and the church community have shown us what it truly means to be part of something bigger. It’s a lesson in kindness and connection that we’ll carry with us forever.”