Jo Spek has worked in the Broken Bay Diocese for 15 years in a variety of roles such as Aboriginal Education and Student Achievement. Jo is currently a Learning Partner at CSBB with the Evangelisation and Catechesis Team, where she has been for 6 years.
What does faith mean to you?
My faith is an important part of my life, it is a part of who I am and how I interact with others. I try to think and care about others in all I do.
Have you had a pivotal faith experience in your journey?
I have met many people in my life who have influenced and supported me on my faith journey.
My mother was a faith-filled woman who inspired me by her actions. She was kind, loving and always considered other people before herself.
When I was a young mother of four a beautiful lady in our parish, Sr Eileen encouraged my participation in the sacramental program, which led me to further involvement in the church in different aspects. She reminded me; with four children I would be making quite a few sacraments. I have led a sacramental classes in my parish for 20 years.
How has being a part of a Catholic community influenced your identity?
Pope Francis calls our Catholic identity a calling card by which we live our lives. This is something I am conscious of in my interactions with others. In my work I have the opportunity to openly talk about my faith and my faith / life journey and experiences which I hope inspires others.
What is something that you learnt in your faith journey?
Everyone is on a faith journey and what I love most about my work at CSBB in the Evangelisation and Catechesis team is the opportunity to accompany staff, students and families on their faith journey meeting them where they are at and having the privilege to walk with them.
How do you share your faith?
I share my faith by being involved with my parish, in the work that I do and by living a life in service of others.
What does Christmas mean to you?
Christmas is a special time to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, the son of God. It is a time to be with family and friends and celebrate. It is also a time to remember our family and loved ones who are no longer with us
How will you celebrate Christmas this year with your family?
We attend Christmas Eve Mass traditionally and spend Christmas day at home with our 4 children and their partners. We enjoy an early morning swim at the beach, followed by the opening of too many presents and the sharing of a meal together, which lasts all day!