Oceans: An Invitation to the Men of Our Parish

There is something about the ocean that speaks to the human heart. Its vastness reminds us that there is always more beyond the horizon. Its power calls us beyond comfort and complacency. Its depths invite us to leave the shallows and venture into something greater. This August, Catholic men from across Australia will gather for OCEANS: MAX2026, the annual MenAlive Catholic conference weekend. For the first time, this national event will be held right here on the Sunshine Coast at Luther Heights, Coolum, from 7–9 August.

If you’ve never attended a Catholic Men’s Conference before, you might wonder what it’s all about. The answer is simple: it is a weekend designed to help men grow in faith, strengthen their relationships with God and their families, deepen their sense of purpose, and discover the power of authentic Christian brotherhood.

Many men spend their lives carrying responsibilities for their families, workplaces, and communities, yet few have opportunities to step away from the demands of daily life, reflect on what matters most, and invest intentionally in their relationship with God. OCEANS provides exactly that opportunity. Across the weekend, participants will hear inspiring keynote presentations, engage in practical workshops, participate in honest small-group discussions, celebrate the Eucharist together, and spend time in prayer, reflection, reconciliation, and fellowship.

One of the highlights of this year’s program will be a panel discussion on relationships. Drawing on the wisdom and experience of married couples and Catholic men, the session will explore the realities, challenges, and joys of building strong relationships in today’s world. Whether you are married, single, divorced, widowed, young, or retired, every man can benefit from reflecting on how to become a better husband, father, son, friend, or disciple.

In a culture where many men experience loneliness and isolation, OCEANS seeks to foster genuine friendships rooted in faith. Men consistently tell us that one of the most valuable aspects of the weekend is discovering they are not alone in their struggles, questions, hopes, and aspirations. The small-group conversations throughout the weekend, for example, create a safe and supportive environment where men can share openly, listen deeply, and encourage one another.

There is something powerful about gathering with men from every corner of the country – different ages, occupations, backgrounds and stories – yet united by a common desire to know Christ more deeply and live their faith more intentionally. Many lifelong friendships have begun around these conversations. There will also be opportunities for personal reflection, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These quieter moments often become some of the most powerful experiences of the weekend, allowing men to encounter God’s mercy, peace, and guidance in a fresh way. At the heart of OCEANS is a desire to help men “set sail” – to move forward with greater confidence and clarity as Catholic disciples.

Our parish mission is “To be a vibrant community that actively accompanies people to encounter Jesus.” That mission depends upon men who are growing in holiness, leadership, and discipleship. Whether you are deeply involved in parish life or simply looking to reconnect with your faith, OCEANS offers a unique opportunity to take the next step.

The conference is not only for the highly committed. It is equally suited to men who are curious, searching, struggling, or simply wanting to spend a weekend with other good men seeking to live their faith more intentionally. If you have been looking for a sign to invest in your spiritual life, perhaps this is it. The ocean is calling.

I encourage every man of our parish to prayerfully consider attending OCEANS: MAX2026. Come expecting encouragement. Come expecting challenge. Come expecting fraternity. Most importantly, come expecting an encounter with Jesus Christ. Don’t miss the opportunity to join them. Registrations close 23rd July – please register HERE

With every blessing – Fr Josh