On February 15, 2025, a powerful movement of faith unfolded at the Catholic Leadership Centre as mothers gathered for the 2nd Melbourne Conference of Mothers Who Pray for Their Children. It was a day of deep prayer, healing, and inspiration, centered on this year’s moving theme: “On the Cross, Reconciliation.”
A Day of Encounter and Grace
The day began at 8:30 AM, as excited mothers arrived, greeted with warm smiles and an atmosphere filled with anticipation. The morning opened with Holy Mass, setting the tone for a day deeply rooted in faith. Bishop Karol of Port Pirie celebrated the Mass, reminding mothers of their sacred role as intercessors for their children. The presence of the Eucharist filled the room with peace and purpose, preparing hearts for the powerful moments ahead, as the angelic voices of the Divine Mercy Choir echoed through the church and into our hearts.
After Mass, Mary Krotwaar, the Australian Coordinator, officially opened the conference, welcoming mothers with a heartfelt message about the strength and unity found in prayer. The energy in the room was palpable, as women from all walks of life gathered for one purpose—to lift their children and families to God.
Mass for the Australian chapter’s conference in Melbourne.
Mothers Who Pray founder Angela Abdo (left), with Bishop Karol Kulczycki of the Diocese of Port Pirie, and Carolina Ceterenski.
Angela Abdo speaking at the 2025 conference on ‘Reconciling with God’.
A Theme That Spoke to Every Mother’s Heart
The theme of reconciliation was woven throughout the day, beginning with the first two talks:
Angela Abdo, foundress of the movement, led a moving session on “Reconciling with God”, guiding mothers to surrender their struggles and embrace His divine mercy.
Carolina Ceterenski, International English Coordinator, followed with a talk on “Reconciling with Ourselves”, encouraging women to embrace self-forgiveness and healing.
A short break for morning tea AM allowed attendees to connect, share their experiences, and browse the Catholic stalls made available to all the attendees.
Reconciliation in Family and Community
The afternoon was filled with transformative messages. Fr. Rob Galea of Icon Ministry spoke powerfully on “Reconciling with Family”, touching the hearts of many mothers seeking healing within their homes.
Mother and EWTN producer for Australia and New Zealand, Salwa Elias followed with a session on “Reconciling with Others”, addressing the importance of forgiveness and unity in relationships.
As the afternoon came, the conference moved back into the church where as a community of mothers, the movements deeply moving Rosary Chaplet for Forgiveness was recited. Mothers prayed together, entrusting their wounds and loved ones to Our Lady’s intercession. This was followed by Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It was a moment of stillness and profound encounter with Christ, as mothers knelt before the Blessed Sacrament, pouring out their hearts in prayer.
Salwa Elias of Christian TV network EWTN Australia/New Zealand speaking on ‘Reconciliation with others’.
Workshops, Reflection, and Looking Ahead
After a refreshing afternoon tea break, the day continued with a workshop titled “What’s Your Cross?”, inviting mothers to reflect on the burdens they carry and how to unite them with Christ’s suffering.
Angela Abdo returned for the final keynote talk, “Reconciling with Created Things”, highlighting the importance of gratitude and stewardship of the gifts God has given us. The day concluded with an information session on upcoming events and the Mothers Who Pray for Their Children Pilgrimage, leaving attendees excited for what’s ahead.
More Than a Conference – A Celebration of Faith and Family
Beyond the talks and prayer, the conference buzzed with excitement as mothers explored stalls featuring the movement’s books and resources, Icon Ministry’s evangelization materials, Shalom’s Catholic resources, and pilgrimage details. Everywhere you turned, there were smiles, hugs, and meaningful conversations, as mothers formed new friendships in Christ.
Why Mothers Came – And Why You Should Too
Many mothers arrived carrying silent burdens—worries about their children, struggles in their marriages, longing for deeper faith. They left renewed, strengthened, and filled with peace, knowing they are not alone in this journey of motherhood.
If you are a mother longing for deeper prayer, a supportive community, and an unshakable faith—this movement is for you.
Join us. Pray with us. Let’s lift our children to God together.
Photos by:
Mothers who Pray for their Children Media Coordinator
Written By
Mothers who Pray for their Children Communications Coordinator