This February, I had the privilege of attending the 2026 Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, one of the largest gatherings of Catholic educators and faith leaders in the world. I travelled with Dr Beth Nolan, Manager of Religious Education Excellence at Melbourne Archdiocesan Catholic Schools (MACS), and three other Religious Education Leaders from schools across Melbourne. One of the most meaningful aspects of the Congress was the opportunity to engage with colleagues in open and thoughtful dialogue through our shared experiences. My attendance was generously supported by MACS as part of their commitment to investing in staff and strengthening Religious Education across our system.

Held at the Anaheim Convention Centre, the Congress centred on the theme “Wrapped in Mercy, Hope Renewed.” Over three days, religious educators gathered for inspiring plenary sessions, workshops and liturgies exploring how faith, hope and mercy can shape our teaching and school communities.

A Journey of Faith and Learning

Before the Congress began, our group undertook a pilgrimage to several significant Catholic sites in Southern California.

We visited Christ Cathedral, the world-famous glass cathedral, where I even explored the underground chapel and crypts.

We also travelled to Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776, and renowned for its beautiful courtyards, arches and the annual return of the swallows.

Another highlight was attending Ash Wednesday Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles.

These visits provided a powerful reminder of the rich history and beauty of the Catholic tradition and how sacred spaces can deepen faith. I was filled with a deep sense of wonder and awe as I encountered the various ways people are inspired to creatively reveal God’s love for us.

Key Insights

The Congress offered an array of workshops on contemporary Religious Education. Two sessions were particularly relevant to the new Religious Education curriculum units currently being taught in our school:

• Exploring the Mastery of Jesus’ Teaching Styles – David Wells reflected on how Jesus’ ability to truly see and understand people remains the model for great teaching.
• Family Dynamics in the First Monotheistic Family: Abraham through Jacob – Rabbi Jason Fruithandler provided a fascinating look at the complex relationships within the family of Abraham.

Across the plenary sessions, a clear message emerged: mercy restores dignity and hope inspires action. Christian hope is more than optimism—it calls us to prayer, compassion and a commitment to justice in our communities. Remember you must be kind (and forgiving) of yourself to be kind and merciful towards others. You can’t share what you don’t have.

I am very grateful to Mr Jamie Madigan, Mr Paul Sammut and the school leadership, teachers and students for supporting my attendance at this enriching professional learning opportunity. The experience left me inspired and renewed (and often teary), with fresh ideas and energy to bring back to our school community. One of the first things a colleague said to me when I returned to work (still jet-lagged) was “you look like you have undertaken a transformation, you are glowing” - and indeed, that’s true.

Feeling blessed and grateful!

Vanessa Shaw
Religious Education and Formation Leader