In classrooms across our Diocese, a dedicated group of volunteers is quietly shaping the faith journeys of children in public schools through our Special Religious Education program (SRE).  

It’s something that has been running for many years in the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle with links as far back as the 1860s.  

A countless number of young people have taken part with thousands of volunteers teaching lessons over the decades.  

Now, SRE sits with the Mission & Evangelisation team with 70 volunteers and more than 1,000 children receiving weekly lessons.  

“SRE, sometimes known as Scripture, involves volunteers going into state schools and teaching religion to students, spreading the good news of God’s love to all children,” Children’s Ministry Partner Nicki Graham said. 

“In our program we mostly teach Catholic children, but we also have a few combined classes where we teach children of multiple faiths. 

“For many children, this is the only opportunity they have to receive a religion lesson.  

“I think we’re incredibly lucky that we have wonderful Catholic schools, but we also have to remember that there are many, many children in state schools who are Catholic or Christian whose parents want them to still learn and know about Jesus.”  

SRE teachers were recently recognised in NSW Parliament for their good work – Nicki says this is a great sign of support for SRE.  

“We are very fortunate to still be teaching in NSW as we are currently the only state that is allowing teachers to go in and teach SRE during school time and this recognition shows that we have support from the government,” Nicki said.  

“It sends a message to the community that SRE is a valuable and vital part of a child’s formation and their wellbeing.”  

Nicki added that she wants to thank all of our existing volunteers for the part they play in our program.  

“Thank you for sharing the joy of the gospel with the children,” she said.  

“Thank you for the love, the laughter and the creativity that you give to these children –without your dedication and passion for this ministry, so many children may never know how much they are truly loved and cared for by God.” 

Nicki encourages anyone who is interested in becoming an SRE teacher to reach out.  

“It is such a beautiful ministry, in giving up some of your time you will receive so much joy and go on your own journey of faith as you see the Gospel through different eyes,” she said.  

“The Diocese provides all of the training and resources that volunteers need to be able to go into state schools and teach.”   

“You will be supported every step of the way.”  

Learn more by visiting https://mn.catholic.org.au/catholic-life/live/special-religious-education/  or emailing [email protected]