If you happen to pass by Holsworthy parish on a Sunday afternoon, you will be struck by the joyful presence of the Prusina family.
Amid the crowds of parishioners gathered for fellowship, Ivan and Gabrijela Prusina can be found deep in the swirling conversations while their three young children, Clara, Marta and Matej play with their friends.
Given they have a fourth child on the way, you might assume the Prusinas are blessed with a financially comfortable life in Sydney— especially with a recent report by KPMG Australia revealing the average number of Australian births has fallen to a record low of 1.5 during the cost-of-living crisis, well below the “replacement rate” of 2.1.
Commentators have mused that at the heart of the steep decline is a lack of hope, and hope is certainly something the Prusinas have in abundance.
They say they have endured many hardships and find comfort in their Catholic faith and trust in God’s providence.
Like most married couples, the early years of forming their family involved some anxiety and uncertainty.
While Gabrijela took on much of the caring duties for their first two children, born 11 months apart, Ivan worked long hours to make enough to support the family.
They lacked hands-on help as both their families lived in Herzegovina and there was no one living close by to help them navigate early parenthood.
Though they went to Mass on Sundays and tried to pray the Rosary, they admit that in their first year they weren’t as close to God or as consistent in their prayer life as they might have been.
But it was during those tough moments that Ivan and Gabrijela began to turn more deeply towards God’s providence and the loving help of his Blessed Mother Mary.
“God blessed us with wonderful friends whose strong faith began to influence our marriage,” said Gabrijela.
“Through their example, we became more drawn to Jesus and to Our Lady, Queen of Peace.
“A turning point for us came when Ivan did the Camino of St Joseph visiting Sydney parishes and experienced a deep spiritual transformation.
“He grew closer to St Joseph and he began to strengthen his relationship with God.
“Attending English Mass daily, although we were hesitant at first, became a new rhythm in our lives and now we can’t imagine saying no to God’s call.”
The couple admit there are always challenges, but they are thankful for their children and for the opportunity to bring them to a local Mass every evening as well as Sundays, so they will know that their faith and relationship with God should always come first.
“Today’s young people are growing up in a world that often values comfort over sacrifice,” said Ivan.
“Yet, as Catholics, we believe that true joy is found not in ease but in giving of ourselves, especially within the family.
“One of the most beautiful sacrifices we can make is to be open to life and to welcome more children into our families.
“Our children teach us so much, helping us grow in forgiveness, love, humility, and most of all, patience.
“Each day, they sanctify our family, and we continue to learn from them.”
There are many large families in their parish community, and Ivan believes their children naturally learn to care for one another and to share their love, time and responsibility as they grow up together.
Gabrijela said they “couldn’t be more excited” about welcoming a fourth child.
“As Catholics, we understand that the gift of family is a blessing and, though the challenges of raising children can seem overwhelming, we are called to trust in God’s providence,” she said.
“Starting a family is a sacred calling and it’s important to approach it thoughtfully, with a sense of responsibility and planning.
“So, to all the future parents or parents of one child who are wondering if they can handle another, be brave, courageous and trust in God’s providence.
Ivan agreed, adding, “You may need to cut back on luxuries or unnecessary items, but it also brings us closer to the things that truly enrich our lives.
“Lean on your community, talk to others who have raised families in similar circumstances and most importantly remember that God is with you every step of the way.”