The Understanding Faith team has just returned from the Australian Catholic Education Conference (ACEC) in Cairns, where over 1,400 delegates from across Australia and New Zealand gathered to share insights and celebrate the richness of Catholic education.

As a proud sponsor of the event, Understanding Faith connected with a diverse range of educators—from diocesan office staff to classroom teachers—highlighting the benefits of our subscription-based digital religious education resource. The team was thrilled by the strong interest shown by delegates, with schools from across the country signing up for new free trials.

While Chloe captured keynotes and sessions for media content, Janita and Kim engaged with delegates at the sponsor table, offering insights into how Understanding Faith supports Catholic educators with engaging, contemporary resources.

A standout moment of the conference was the Eucharistic celebration, attended by nearly 3,000 people. The Mass was concelebrated by Bishop of Cairns Joe Caddy AM, Archbishop of Brisbane Mark Coleridge, Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher OP, and a host of visiting bishops and clergy. Among the attendees were 1,160 students, including 410 choir members whose music added a memorable dimension to the celebration. Bishop Caddy’s homily reflected on Catholic education as a transformative force shaping the lives of young Australians.

The Understanding Faith team extends heartfelt thanks to the ACEC organisers for an inspiring and successful event. Now back in the office—and out of the Cairns heat—the team is excited to continue supporting Catholic educators nationwide.