18/05/2026
Praise God for the successful and fruitful mission work at the Geraldton Diocese.
On Saturday, May 16, our mission team departed from Perth at around 6:30 AM and travelled approximately 420 kilometers north to Geraldton a coastal city in the Mid West region of Western Australia. The journey took around 4 to 5 hours by road, and we arrived in Geraldton at approximately 11:00 AM. Geraldton is known for its vibrant multicultural community, strong Catholic presence, and welcoming parish environment, making it a meaningful place for evangelisation and family ministry.
At 2:00 PM, we were blessed to have a meaningful meeting and fellowship at the bishop’s house with Most Rev. Michael Henry Morrissey, together with Fr. Tai Trinh, Fr. Larry Rodillas, and Fr. Robert.
During the meeting, we presented an overview of Couples for Christ (CFC), sharing our mission and vision as a Catholic family renewal movement dedicated to evangelisation, family renewal, and building Christ-centered communities. We also shared about our Answering the Call of the Poor (ANCOP) program, our ongoing formation initiatives, leadership development, and the different ministries that support children, youth, singles, couples, and families.
The bishop was encouraged to know that Couples for Christ is not only for Filipinos but is open to all nationalities and cultures. He acknowledged the positive contribution of CFC members in parish life, especially in Perth, where many members actively serve in different ministries and church programs. He also appreciated the strong emphasis of CFC on family life, formation, and community support.
A significant part of the discussion centered on the challenges facing families and marriage today. Bishop Morrissey shared his concern about the decreasing number of church weddings and the growing lack of understanding about the Sacrament of Matrimony. In response, we shared how Couples for Christ continues to encourage and guide couples toward Christian family life and sacramental marriage, including initiatives such as marriage enrichment and mass weddings conducted in the past.
We also explained the structure of our community life through regular prayer meetings, household gatherings, monthly assemblies, and ongoing formation programs conducted both face-to-face and online. The bishop appreciated how these programs help sustain the spiritual growth and commitment of members, especially in remote areas across Australia.
The conversation also highlighted the importance of involving the whole family in evangelisation. We shared that CFC is a family renewal movement that ensures children, youth, and family members are included and nurtured spiritually through dedicated ministries and activities.
The bishop expressed his support and encouragement for the mission of Couples for Christ in the Geraldton Diocese, recognizing the value of communities that strengthen families and parish life. We were also deeply grateful and honored for the appointment of Fr. Larry Rodillas as the Chaplain of Couples for Christ in the Geraldton Diocese. This blessing brings great encouragement and spiritual guidance as we continue to build and sustain the mission in the region.
At around 6:00 PM that evening, we had the opportunity to meet and fellowship with parishioners, Filipino families, and members of the local community, including the President of the Mabuhay Association. It was a joyful and encouraging gathering as we listened to their stories, shared our experiences, and built stronger connections within the faith community. The fellowship also became an opportunity to introduce Couples for Christ and share the vision of strengthening families and renewing Christian life in the diocese.
The following day, Sunday morning, we attended the Holy Mass officiated by Bishop Michael Morrissey. During the Mass, the bishop warmly introduced Couples for Christ to the congregation and graciously gave us the opportunity to briefly speak and invite parishioners to learn more about the community and participate in the mission. After the Mass, we distributed flyers and personally met parishioners, encouraging them to join the upcoming activities and programs of CFC.
We thank the Lord for the warm welcome, fruitful discussions, and the opportunity to continue building partnerships in faith and mission. We also thank Bishop Morrissey, Fr. Tai Trinh, Fr. Larry Rodillas, Fr. Robert, and the parish community for their openness and support.
Special thanks to my co-missionaries:
Joy and In-In Intervencion : Geraldton Mission Head
Tito Tutus D’Bayan & Tita Joyce D’Bayan
Bro William Gevaña & Sis Olivia Gevaña
Bro Dennis Villahermosa
Bro Eric & Sis Fraiza Salvador
Bro Ronel Capalar
May God continue to guide and bless the Geraldton Diocese and all those faithfully serving in His vineyard.
