Image provided by Fr Thomas Zaranski. Pictured left to right: Bridget Thomas, Ishveer Gosal, Bishop Stuart Hall, and Jack McMillan
The military community gathered in profound faith and fellowship on 25 October 2026 to witness a significant milestone for three of its own, as they were received into the Catholic Church through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
The sacred liturgy was presided over by the Most Reverend Stuart Hall DD, Bishop of the Catholic Military Ordinariate of Australia, with Fr Thomas Zaranski, an MO Catholic Army Chaplain, concelebrating the ceremony. Standing before a proud congregation of fellow Australian Defence Force (ADF) cadets, loving families, and members of the wider defence community, the candidates took their definitive steps into the Church.
Bridget Thomas and Ishveer Gosal were joyfully received into the faith through all three Sacraments of Initiation. Adhering to the rich tradition of the adult rite, both Bridget and Ishveer were washed clean in the waters of Baptism, strengthened with the oil of Confirmation, and nourished for the first time with the Holy Eucharist.
Alongside them, Jack McMillan was formally received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church, making his transition from the Uniting Church. Having already been validly baptised, Jack completed his entry into the faith by receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion.
The intersection of military service and spiritual commitment was palpable throughout the ceremony. For these young service members, embarking on their faith journeys surrounded by their peers offers a powerful foundation for the challenges and responsibilities ahead.
The entire defence diocese and parish community extend their deepest blessings, prayers, and warmest congratulations to Bridget, Ishveer, and Jack. May they be guided by faith, protected in their service, and continuously uplifted by the Holy Spirit as they walk their new paths as disciples of Christ.
By the MO Media Team