PEOPLE often turn to religion in times of crisis and uncertainty.

So it’s no surprise that post-lockdown sandgropers are flocking to church and the Perth Archdiocese is holding a new Adult Faith Education Programme in Applecross parish.

Created in the Image of God: An Introduction to Christian Anthropology offers a Catholic perspective on what it means to be human, and will feature a series of talks from Natalie Thomas, a theology tutor at Notre Dame University.

“This particular course focuses on Christian Anthropology and explores the idea that since we are made in the image and likeness of God and have an inherent human dignity, we are called to love those around us and be of service to them,” says Marco Ceccarelli, director of The Centre for Faith Enrichment.

“We are increasingly working in the parishes of the Archdiocese of Perth in the evenings and are in a way, bringing faith education to people’s areas.

“Over an entire year, those who attend will be exposed to four major topics linked to the Catholic faith: scripture, basic catholic values, christian anthropology and prayer and sacraments. 

“By running the programme over an entire year (four weeks per school term) we hope to infuse some continuity in people’s faith education experience. 

“Furthermore, as people come more often they get to know each other and the parish’s sense of community is developed.”

The course will include the opportunity to ask questions and delve deeper into subjects raised by Ms Thomas, who has held numerous presentations and workshops with young people in the archdioceses of Perth and Melbourne. 

Ms Thomas specialises in how a relationship with God impacts our everyday life and deepest relationships.

Dr Ceccarelli says last year’s temporary closure of churches because of covid made life difficult for parishioners, but post-lockdown they are returning in droves.

“They return to receive spiritual guidance and because in this time of much suffering and loss around the world, their faith gives them hope to continue and persevere,” he says.

Created in the Image of God: An Introduction to Christian Anthropology is on Wednesdays 7.30pm-8.30pm, September 1-22, at Applecross Parish, corner of Canning Highway and Ardross Street. Suggested donation $20.

More info at cfe.org.au/our-courses/created-in-the-image-of-god-an-introduction-to-christian-anthropology-3/