This year, when you walk the streets of Sydney surrounded by 20,000 Catholics, proclaiming their faith at the Walk with Christ procession, take note of the “invisible army” forming the “human wall” at the front of the procession or handing out booklets and directing traffic, working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Whether ushering, directing, or assisting, these volunteers give their time willingly, driven by a shared love for Christ and a desire to see his message proclaimed loudly and clearly on the streets of Sydney.
Their quiet service embodies the true heart of stewardship and faith that sustains our vibrant Catholic community.
Courteney Hall, Project Officer of Processions and Confraternities at the Archdiocese of Sydney, has the job of rallying about 60 volunteers who form the backbone of the Walk with Christ procession.
“Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds—youth leaders, Catholic school staff, university chaplaincy staff, parish volunteers, and families, all united in service. Simply put, these events would not be possible without their silent service,” she said.
At the Walk with Christ procession, these dedicated individuals are divided into two main groups with distinct responsibilities.
Those wearing orange vests focus on crowd control, forming a “human wall” at the front of the procession. Also 30 or so volunteers in red vests handle logistics such as distributing booklets, holding signs for school children, and helping assist and direct the clergy who take part.
“It just helps the smooth running of the event, so people know where to go, so that they have access to the booklets and how the procession will run and have all the prayers,” said Courteney.
“It’s all so that the 20,000 people we will hopefully see this year just enjoy the procession.”
At just 18 years old, Veronica Elek from St Peter Chanel in Berala is a volunteering veteran, having assisted in the last two women’s Lenten retreats organised by the Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia and the Catholic Women’s Network.
She is again looking forward to answering the call to assist with Walk with Christ.
“As young Catholics, active service is so good in the church,” Veronica shared.
“Being able to show up and help and be a part of it all, and for people to be able to see that the youth are helping is great.”
On every occasion she has volunteered, she has found profound meaning.
“It just moves me so much, spiritually, and it gives me such encouragement and enthusiasm within my faith. You are so much better and so much healthier within your faith.” she shared.
This year, Norman Raad, a father of two from St Kevin’s parish in Eastwood, is looking to transition from attendee to volunteer at the Walk with Christ.
“It’s a way of giving back for all the graces I’ve received at the Walk with Christ. Often the volunteers go unnoticed and often people will leave it to others because it’s the same people that put their hands up time and time again,” said Norman.
He said the Walk with Christ is a unifying and faith filled occasion he and his family look forward to every year.
“Just the significance of shutting down the city for Christ is something so significant and so valuable. Sometimes you do underestimate the amount of energy and effort that goes into something like that, so I’m hoping to give back and help,” he said.
“It’s only getting bigger and it will need more hands on-deck. This is only the start—what will happen when the International Eucharistic Congress comes to Sydney?”
Courteney also emphasised the need for new volunteers in the lead up to the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028.
“It’s going to be a massive event for Sydney and for the archdiocese and all of Australia. It will be great to have more people putting up their hands now and getting that experience, knowing what it’s like behind the scenes, seeing how these processions and events run.
“So then when it comes to 2028, the Sydney archdiocese can really be on show, particularly for the vast amounts of faithful people who are willing to give up their time for the glory of God.”
Walk with Christ will be on 22 June with a festival beginning at 1.00pm in Martin Place. The procession begins at 2.30pm sharp from the corner of Martin Place and Pitt Street.