BRISBANE, Australia — In a remarkable sign of spiritual vitality, the Archdiocese of Brisbane welcomed a near doubling of new Catholics this Easter. A total of 454 adults, a staggering increase from 241 the previous year, were baptized and confirmed at Easter Vigil Masses across south-east Queensland during last Easter Sunday Mass, marking one of the most significant surges in adult initiation in the region’s recent history.
Archbishop Shane Mackinlay, in his 2026 Easter message, hailed the response as a powerful witness to the “vitality of our parish communities.” He noted that the growing number of people entering the Church is a direct result of parishes effectively proclaiming the Gospel and living out the mission of Jesus.
Searching for the “Person of Christ”
At the parish level, the surge is being felt in the pews. Deacon Hugo Silva, the RCIA (now OCIA) coordinator at Acacia Ridge parish, observed that today’s seekers are looking for more than just information. “What many people are searching for is ultimately the truth, not simply information, but the person of Christ and the fullness of truth found in His Church,” he said.
Deacon Silva noted that for many, the journey begins with a sense of “belonging and community” before it transitions into a formal commitment to the faith. This “come and see” approach, as Archbishop Mackinlay described it, is proving to be a highly effective way of inviting others into the life of the Christian people.
A National Trend of Catholic Revival
The growth in Brisbane is mirrored by similar trends across Australia. In Sydney, Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP reported a 35% increase in catechumens and candidates for 2026, while Melbourne and other capital cities have also seen record-breaking numbers. This “Catholic revival” is being seen as a rejection of the “culture of indifference” and a return to the foundational questions of life and meaning.
Having already received the Sacrament of Baptism and the seal of the Holy Spirit, these 454 men and women stood as a sign of hope for the entire Church. Their “yes” to God served as a reminder that the Gospel remained “ever ancient, ever new,” having transformed their hearts just as it has for generations.
Spiritual Resolution
As we welcome our new brothers and sisters into the fold, let us renew our own commitment to the “Gospel of Truth.” Let us commit ourselves to:
The Sacrament of Confession: To allow the Lord to renew our own baptismal grace, purging our hearts of any “spiritual lukewarmness.”
Eucharistic Adoration: To pray for the newly initiated (neophytes), that they may remain steadfast in their new life in Christ.
The Holy Rosary: To entrust the growth of the Church in Australia to the maternal care of Mary, the Mother of the Church.
The Holy Mass: To participate in the Easter liturgy with a renewed sense of wonder, recognizing that we are part of a living, growing family of faith.
Sacred Scripture: To follow the example of those who listen and allowing the Word of God to be the “lamp for our feet” and the “light for our path.” To remain informed about Catholic life, teachings, and global Church developments, readers may be encouraged to visit www.ewtnvatican.com for trusted Catholic news and resources.
