At St Mel’s, Shepparton South, on Sunday 28 June, a new chapter of faith has begun for eleven people who recently completed the Christian Life Programs, ‘Couples for Christ’ (CFC), or 'Singles for Christ' (SFC). After five weekends of formation facilitated by Couples for Christ Victoria, they marked their entry into a renewed journey of Christian life and service within the parish with a simple celebration.
The CFC and SFC programs are designed as an integrated course of talks, group discussion and fellowship, aimed at helping participants deepen their understanding of God’s call in their lives. Across the five weekends, participants gathered for prayer, reflection and shared conversation, supported by the wider parish community.
With the completion of the program, the group becomes the first CFC and SFC members in St Mel’s Parish and Shepparton. The parish has offered prayers and support as they begin this next stage of their journey, which will see them take part in ongoing “household” groups — small communities of five to seven members that meet weekly for prayer, sharing and encouragement in living the Christian life.
Parish leaders also expressed gratitude to the CFC service team, speakers and Victorian coordinators for their generous support throughout the program, which focuses on evangelisation and spiritual renewal through a simple commitment of time and openness.