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3 Sep 2026

Students Put Faith into Words at Speak for Faith Competition

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The Catholic Education Office in Leederville once again welcomed emerging young speakers from across Western Australia for the 2026 Speak for Faith competition.

The Competition, a joint project between the Catenian Association in Western Australia and Catholic Education WA, forms part of the 2026 Performing Arts Festival programme.

Nineteen students across both Primary and Secondary categories were nominated to participate, with Heat 1 and Heat 2 held on 25 and 26 August. The competition culminated in the final on 31 August, where the top five students in both categories competed for the title.

“Today, society often tells us that success means being at the top. But Jesus turns that idea upside down.”

– Hannah, Mater Christi Catholic Primary School

Primary students were asked to respond to the impromptu question, ‘What are some ways that people today follow Jesus by doing what is right and honouring God?’ They also delivered pre-prepared speeches exploring topics such as the teachings of Jesus, the importance of prayer, why Christians show kindness and serve others, and the role of the sacraments in the lives of Catholics.

In the Primary category, Hannah from Mater Christi Catholic Primary School took first place, followed by Stella from Our Lady of Good Counsel School in second and Deanndra, also from Mater Christi Catholic Primary School, in third. Finalists included Cohen from St Augustine’s Primary School and Tyler from Mel Maria CPS.

Hannah reflected on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, explaining that while “society often tells us that success means being at the top”, Christians are called to turn that idea upside down, recognising that “greatness begins with serving others”.

Stella highlighted the importance of the sacraments in supporting our spiritual journey, saying, “The sacraments give us constant support for our spiritual journey. If we take part in them, we build a real, living connection with God.”

Deanndra spoke about putting faith into action, saying, “Jesus teaches us that God’s love has no boundaries. He doesn’t just ask us to love the people we like, but everyone, as everyone is worthy.”

Secondary students researched and prepared speeches drawing on the Senior Secondary Religious Education Curriculum, exploring current issues facing the Catholic Church amid changing societal values and attitudes.

“In serving those who are vulnerable, in serving those in our community who are disadvantaged, we are serving Christ.”

– Sophia, Seton Catholic College

They also responded to the impromptu question, ‘What role does the Catholic Church have in responding to issues such as the challenges faced by people who are forced to migrate?’

In the Secondary category, Grace from John XXIII College took first place, followed by Emily from St Joseph’s School, Northam, in second and Sophia from Seton Catholic College in third. Finalists were Erin from Ursula Frayne Catholic College and Hannah from Mater Dei College.

Senior Team Leader of Religious Education at Catholic Education WA, Ben Bull, who served as one of the judges, said: “Listening to what these young people have to say, it really holds our church and our faith in good stead for the future.”

The Primary Results were:

Winner – Hannah

2nd  – Stella

3rd – Deanndra

Finalists – Cohen and Tyler

The Secondary Results were:

Winner  – Grace

2nd– Emily

3rd – Sophia

Finalists – Erin and Hannah

 

The 37th Performing Arts Festival runs from 24 July to 4 September 2026.

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