CATHOLIC ENQUIRY CONNECT NETWORK – Report published on anewparish.com by Fr Peter*
One of the principal sponsors of the October 2025 Divine Renovation Hope and Renewal Summit in Palmerston North, New Zealand, was the Catholic Enquiry Centre (CEC). Director Carly Mulqueen appeared on stage at the Summit, and afterwards in a follow up Zoom meeting, speaking of ways in which interested persons may help by being part of Catholic Enquiry Connect Network.
CEC is looking for trusted parishioners the CEC can refer enquirers to as friendly, welcoming faces of the parish, “Connectors” reaching out with warmth and hospitality — meeting newcomers at Mass, sitting with them for the first time, introducing them to the parish priest, and helping them take next steps such as joining Alpha, RCIA, or another parish group. They may also check that someone has received CEC What Catholics Believe booklets and offer to chat or connect them with others of a similar age or stage.
CEC is also calling for behind-the-scenes supporters to help the Catholic Enquiry Centre stay visible in parish life. “Champions” ensure CEC posters are displayed, CEC Catholic Discovery adverts appear occasionally in the parish bulletin, and CEC What Catholics Believe booklets are well-stocked in the church foyer or library.
As part of this network, parishioners also:
- receive twice-a-year CEC newsletters with stories, updates, and resources
- are invited to CEC regular Zoom gatherings
- connect with others across Aotearoa who have a heart for evangelisation and accompaniment
- grow through sharing, encouragement, and upskilling in areas like mission, accompaniment, and evangelising conversations
You do not need to be a Connector or Champion to attend the Zooms. Anyone who wants to grow in faith, mission, and accompaniment is warmly welcome.
You’re also very welcome to invite others who may be interested — friends, fellow parishioners, RCIA or Alpha volunteers, or anyone with a heart for helping people encounter Jesus.
Catholic Enquiry Connect is about being part of something bigger — a national community of everyday evangelists helping people feel welcomed, supported, and one step closer to Christ.
