God And Beer- Edition 40- Paul Morrissey (Campion College)

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-ninth face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday November 10, 2025) featured speaker Paul Morrissey. Paul spoke on the topic of 'Five Books Every Catholic Should Read'.

The Books Every Catholic Should Read

CS Lewis once said that we must read at least one old book for each new one - but which ones to read? In this inspiring and practical talk, Dr Paul Morrissey, President of Campion College, explores five timeless works that every Catholic should know. From the wisdom of the saints to the brilliance of the great Christian thinkers, these books illuminate what it means to live a life of faith, reason, and love in today’s world. Dr Morrissey shows how reading well can form the soul, deepen one’s understanding of God, and awaken a love for truth and beauty that endures for life.

Dr Paul Morrissey is the President of Campion College, Australia’s first liberal arts college, dedicated to renewing education through the integration of faith and reason. A theologian and educator a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Lateran University in Rome. Before joining Campion, he taught at Notre Dame University and worked as a Secondary School teacher. His leadership at Campion reflects his deep conviction that true is found in pursuing the good, the true, and the beautiful. This promises to be an evening of good conversation, fellowship, and faith. We hope you’ll join us!

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 39- Matt McDonald & Stephanie De Niese

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-eighth face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday October 13, 2025) featured speakers Matt McDonald & Stephanie De Niese. Matt and Stephanie spoke on the topic of 'Male and Female He Created Them'.

Male and Female He Created Them

Our next God and Beer evening will explore the theme Male and Female He Created Them. Drawing on St John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, our presenters will reflect on what it means to be created as male and female, and how this truth shapes our relationships, our capacity for love, and our call to authentic communion. Together, we’ll consider how God’s plan for humanity can guide us in navigating questions of identity, marriage, and human dignity today.

Matthew MacDonald is a Melbourne-based counsellor with a background in business, ministry, and education. With more than a decade of experience working with young adults, couples, and families, as well as his own vocation as a husband and father, Matt brings a rich perspective on how faith and therapy can work together to uncover the “masterpiece” within each person. His qualifications include a Master of Theology (Marriage and Family) from the John Paul II Institute and a Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Cairnmillar Institute.

Stephanie De Niese is a counsellor and psychotherapist based in Mornington and the founder of Movement with Steph. She works with individuals, couples, and families in areas such as anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, and relationships. A CCAA-registered member, she brings both professional expertise and a deep Christian commitment to her work, helping people find healing and strength through integrated mind–body approaches.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 38- Dr Edward Sri

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-seventh face-to-face event (held at the Parish Hall of St Gerard's Parish Dandenong North on Monday September 1, 2025) featured renowned American Catholic speaker Dr Edward Sri. Dr Sri spoke on the topic of 'Making Missionary Disciples'.

Making Missionary Disciples

How do we move from simply “going through the motions” in our faith to truly living as missionary disciples of Christ? In this inspiring and practical talk, Dr. Edward Sri offers a roadmap for deepening personal conversion, growing in love for Jesus, and confidently sharing the Gospel with others. Drawing on Scripture, the lives of the saints, and his own pastoral experience, Dr. Sri challenges us to embrace the call to evangelisation in everyday life—with clarity, charity, and courage.

About Edward Sri

Dr. Edward Sri is a world-renowed theologian, author, and Catholic speaker who has helped millions grow in their faith. He is a founding leader of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), a professor at the Augustine Institute, and the host of the "All Things Catholic" podcast. Dr. Sri has written numerous bestselling books, including A Biblical Walk Through the Mass, Who Am I to Judge?, and Into His Likeness. Visit his website at https://www.edwardsri.com

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 37- Fr Jude Pirotta (Parish Priest St James the Apostle Parish Hoppers Crossing North) And Sean Menere (Counsellor)

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-sixth face-to-face event (held at the Hoppers Club on Thursday August 7, 2025) featured Fr Jude Pirotta and his nephew Sean Menere. Fr Jude and Sean spoke on the topic of 'Building Resilience and Finding Purpose Through Faith'.

Father Jude M. Pirotta MSSP

Father Jude M. Pirotta MSSP was born in Yallourn, rural Victoria in 1956, the eighth child of a family of eleven. He studied at St Vincent’s Primary School, Morwell, and St Paul’s Secondary Catholic College, Traralgon.

He joined the Paulist Missionaries at the age of 18, completed his training for the priesthood at Catholic Theological College, Clayton, and was ordained on 31 March 1984.

He has served as an Assistant Priest at the Parishes of St Bernadette’s, North Sunshine and St Michael’s, Traralgon, where he was heavily involved in youth ministry. He was also administrator at the Paulist Retreat Centre in Wantirna, and between 1998 and 2004 was Parish Priest of Our Lady of Victories, Horsley Park NSW.

Fr Jude did Clinical Pastoral Education at the Austin Hospital, Heidelberg for 12 months then he began supervisory training at Instep, Mulgrave. In 2005 Fr Jude began his ministry at St James the Apostle Parish, Hoppers Crossing North.

He is a one-eyed Collingwood supporter, enjoys movies, horse riding and swimming.

His nephew Sean Menere is a highly accomplished and experienced counsellor dedicated to helping his clients navigate life's complexities through a grounded and practical approach. As a member of the Australian Counselling Association, Sean brings over 20 years’ experience to his practice. His unique perspective has proven to be beneficial for an incredibly diverse range of clients. The combination is Sean’s professional and personal experience has helped deepen his understanding of psychological and emotional resilience and how they impact psychological wellbeing and relationships.

Sean's approach is highly supportive and engaging. He believes in meeting clients where they are, and creating an opportunity where they can explore their thoughts and emotions openly. Using a combination of Person-Centred, Acceptance and Commitment, and Solution-Focused therapies, Sean tailors each session to address his client's unique needs. His integrated methods provide practical tools that help his clients build self-awareness and manage their challenges effectively, guiding them toward meaningful, lasting change.

Through his practice, Sean is committed to empowering individuals to take control of their psychological well-being, and couples to create harmony. He supports his clients in breaking down complex issues into manageable steps, making progress feel achievable from the very first session. Sean’s nature and genuine interest in his clients' situations fosters a trusting environment where they can discover their strengths and develop the skills needed to thrive.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 36- Fr Dean Mathieson (Parish Priest St Peter's Parish Toorak)

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-fifth face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday June 16, 2025) featured Fr Dean Mathieson. Fr Dean spoke on the topic of 'Signs of Hope and a New Pope'.

The media love to talk about the decline of Christianity and "dwindling congregations", however around the world Christianity is growing rapidly and within the Church there are many groups and movements that are winning souls for Christ. Fr Dean Mathieson will offer a refreshing and inspiring perspective on the Church's vitality around the world. He'll share stories and insights about where the Catholic faith is growing and flourishing—and introduce us to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, his background, and the early signs of his papacy. Come and be encouraged by the signs of renewal and grace at work in the Church today.

Fr Dean Mathieson is parish priest of St Peter's in Toorak with a deep love for the Church and a passion for evangelisation. He brings together theological depth and a pastor's heart. Visit the website for the Truth, Beauty, Goodness Project to find out more about his events.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 35- Jonathan Hili

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-fourth face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday May 12, 2025) featured Jonathan Hili. Jonathan spoke on the topic of 'Truth, Beauty and Goodness: Renewing Catholic Education'.

Truth, Beauty and Goodness: Renewing Catholic Education

Catholic education today faces a crisis of identity, often shaped more by secular trends than by the rich intellectual and spiritual tradition of the Church. This talk proposes a path to renewal: a return to the classical liberal arts, the time-honoured approach that formed saints, scholars, and civilisations. Rooted in the harmonious integration of faith and reason, classical education seeks not just to impart skills, but to cultivate wisdom, virtue, and a love for truth. By recovering the trivium and quadrivium, grounding learning in the great works, and restoring a vision of the human person as made in the image of God, Catholic schools can once again become places of deep formation—of the heart, mind, and soul.

About Jonathan Hili

Jonathan Hili is a Catholic educator and passionate advocate for the renewal of Catholic schooling through classical education. A seasoned secondary school teacher, Jonathan brings a wealth of classroom experience and a deep love for the Western intellectual tradition. He currently serves as Secretary of the Australian Classical Education Society (ACES), where he works to support teachers, schools, and parents in recovering the riches of the liberal arts and the Catholic tradition. With academic training in history and theology, Jonathan combines practical insight with intellectual depth to inspire a new generation of educators and students.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 34- Robert Zaar

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-third face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday April 14, 2025) featured Robert Zaar. Robert spoke on the topic of 'Spiritual Warfare'.

Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits

This talk will cover an introduction to spiritual warfare by illuminating the path to victory when as St Teresa of Avila puts it, “I was never again afraid of them—on the contrary, they seemed to be afraid of me.” There are many misconceptions around, which will be debunked. The first of which is nicely expressed in the movie Nefarious (one of the few that is pretty accurate), the main character expresses, "I didn't know I was in a fight," to which the demon responds, "That's why you're losing." Each stage of the battle will be outlined with practical suggestions provided including useful resources one of which is St Ignatius’ Discernment of Spirits.

About Rob Zaar

Rob Zaar is a Catholic teacher and spiritual director in Melbourne who is the blessed husband of Julie and proud father of Br James Mary (Ignatius) and Francis. He runs a popular Religious Education Enhancement which means boys voluntarily attend. Rob has completed a Masters of Theology as well as spiritual formation from the Avila Institute and the Heart of Christ Spiritual Director's Program both in the US. He has given talks at over 20 events and run over 30 retreats. Rob is a member of Apostoli Viae a Carmelite community through which he receives further spiritual formation.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.

God And Beer- Edition 33- Anna Krohn OAM (Catholic Women's League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga, Thomas More Centre)

An event from the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together Catholic men and women of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, several times a year. The aim is to inspire and strengthen Catholics by providing ideas and inspiration for renewal by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith.

The thirty-second face-to-face event (held at the Notting Hill Hotel on Monday March 17, 2025) featured Anna Krohn OAM, formerly President of the Catholic Women's League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga. Anna spoke on the topic of 'Original Solitude, Identity and the Call to Love'.

Original Solitude, Identity and the Call to Love

What does it mean to be truly human? Before we can fully give ourselves in love, we must first understand who we are. In this talk, we explore "Original Solitude"—a key insight from St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body—which reveals how our deepest identity is discovered in our relationship with God. Through solitude, we come to recognize our unique dignity, our longing for communion, and our call to love. In a world filled with noise and distractions, this talk offers a fresh perspective on identity, purpose, and what it means to be made for love.

About Anna Krohn OAM

Anna Krohn OAM is a Catholic educator, writer, and speaker with a deep passion for theology, philosophy, and the Catholic intellectual tradition. She has been involved in Catholic Adult Education Melbourne, Anima Education, the Catholic Women's League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga and the John Paul II Institute helping individuals and communities engage with the Church's rich teachings on faith, reason, and human dignity.

An initiative of the Knights of the Southern Cross Victoria to bring together people of all ages from across the south-east suburbs of Melbourne each month. Our aim is to inspire and strengthen Christians by providing ideas and inspiration for renewing the Church by drawing on the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic tradition.

Many thanks to those who made this possible, and those in attendance.