A year of blessings and ‘countless moments of grace’
By Josh Low
After almost of year of ministry with the University of Tasmania (UTAS) Catholic Chaplaincy in Launceston, Merin Abraham and Aleena Nelson will be returning to Melbourne in November.
Having come from Melbourne to serve by assisting Fr Chathura Silva with ministry on the ground in Launceston, the pair reflected on their unique experience over the course of the year.
Their roles have seen them building a community through the introduction of weekly Mass on campus, outings, and gatherings for university students in homes and local churches, with Eucharistic Adoration also made available to students.
Aleena described her time here as a blessing, intertwined with challenges that deepened her faith and reliance on God.
“Each difficulty served as an opportunity to trust in His unwavering faithfulness, reminding me that He is always by my side no matter what the world throws at me.
“Under the guidance of our Chaplain, Fr Chatty, our mission was clear – to bring the love of Jesus into the lives of students both on and off campus.
She added that her favourite moments involved individual catchups with students, whether over a meal or during trips to Mass.
“These connections illuminated the unique struggles and aspirations of each student, reminding me of the beauty of vulnerability and the importance of listening.”
Aleena said her experience in Tasmania has taught her to continually return to the loving arms of Jesus.
“This year has shown me that a small sacrifice for God can yield immense blessings… I am grateful for the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the countless moments of grace that have marked my time in Tasmania.”
Along with pursuing studies in nursing upon her return to Melbourne, Aleena said she is excited to continue her journey in youth ministry with Anointing Fire Catholic Ministry Australia and her Syro-Malabar parish community.
For Merin, her time in ministry here has been “nothing short of adventurous, challenging and exciting”.
“The university chaplaincy here in Tasmania has come with various hurdles, some planned for and others unexpected,” she said.
“But this presented us with an opportunity to try new approaches to ministry and utilise what we did have to proclaim God’s love and kingdom amongst students.
“It can also be difficult to evangelise students whilst also being empathic to their hectic work, study and life schedules.”
However, together with the help of students, Chaplain Fr Chathura and Aleena, Merin said the group were able to sow seeds and plan for the future of the UTAS Catholic Chaplaincy.
“My university chaplaincy experience will definitely aid me in my own ministry and faith life due to the various lessons learnt.
“Often the biggest acts of evangelisation can be just from giving the love of God through our actions and presence.”
Upon her return to Melbourne, Merin plans to continue ministry in her community as well as full time work.
“I will also start working so I am excited to balance giving my time to the Lord and being able to serve those around me through my profession,” she said.