New director appointed to lead Catholic Enquiry Centre

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Twelve years after approaching the Catholic Enquiry Centre to support her in a journey towards the Catholic Church, Carly Mulqueen will take up the role as the Centre�s director.

The New Zealand bishops last week confirmed Mrs Mulqueen�s appointment after a national search. New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference president Bishop Steve Lowe said she emerged from the field of applicants as the choice to carry forward decades of history.

�For more than 60 years, the Catholic Enquiry Centre has been a first stop for countless people on their way to finding a spiritual home in the Catholic Church,� he said.

�While some of the strategies and techniques have changed over those years, the Centre�s goal remains the same � help people to know and love Jesus and His Church. 

�As someone who has experienced and benefited from the Centre�s work, Carly brings a wonderful perspective and broad experience to this director�s role.�

Mrs Mulqueen has worked in parish and diocesan settings within the Catholic Church, as well as in roles within national faith-based organisations. 

She said it is a privilege to be invited to continue the Catholic Enquiry Centre�s legacy.

�I am truly grateful to God for revealing His love to me and for drawing me into His one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. In all I do, I seek to make Christ known and to help others follow Him as a disciple,� Mrs Mulqueen said.

�When this role became vacant, I felt a very strong calling to offer myself in the service of the Church in this particular way. I�ve experienced first-hand how powerful this ministry can be, and feel privileged to now be able to accompany those enquiring as they take the next steps in their faith journey.�

Mrs Mulqueen will start in the new role on July 7, leading a team of three and collaborating with other NZCBC staff and with diocesan leaders to carry out the Centre�s mission. 

�There are many wonderful things happening within the Church in New Zealand. Responding to and reaching out to those who are curious and open to the Catholic faith will be a great joy,� she said.

�We find ourselves in a moment when Pope Francis� passing and Pope Leo�s election have heightened interest in the Church. What an opportunity we have to respond to that interest.�