About Us
The John Paul II Centre is a Catholic charity that has been serving families in the Christchurch Diocese since 2005.
Grounded in the teachings of St. John Paul II and guided by our values of Dignity, Compassion, and Hope, we support life, marriage, and family.
The John Paul II Centre is committed to helping families walk through some of life's greatest struggles.
We do this by running different programmes and events as well as offering several services where we walk alongside individuals who are struggling with a particular burden.
“As the family goes, so goes the nation and so goes the whole world in which we live.”
St Pope John Paul II
Our Team
Brigid Conroy
Director
Brigid leads the John Paul II Centre for Life, guided by St John Paul II’s vision that each person is unique, chosen, and irreplaceable.
With a background in strategic communications and pastoral support, she is passionate about helping couples strengthen their relationships and create homes where love can flourish.
Lara Paterson
Support Worker
Lara provides pastoral support at the John Paul II Centre, walking alongside individuals and families through difficult seasons.
She facilitates the Springs in the Desert infertility support group and helps connect people with resources and support.
Accompanying families with compassion, faith, and prayer is at the heart of her work.
Megan Emery
Support Worker
Megan brings pastoral experience from her role as Catholic Chaplain at Burwood Hospital, along with the wisdom of motherhood and grandmotherhood.
A former Board member of the Centre, she walks alongside those seeking comfort and guidance during difficult times, supported by her prayer life with the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites.
Debra McTague
Special Projects Coordinator
As Special Projects Coordinator, Debra develops initiatives that support the Centre’s mission.
A mother of five with a background in psychology and youth work, she brings both professional skills and lived experience to supporting families in need.
Jessie Mischewski
Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
Jessie coordinates marketing and communications for the Centre (currently on maternity leave). With experience in early childhood education and communications at New Zealand Police, she connects families with services and helps donors understand their impact.
John Paul II Centre for Life Trust Board
L-R: Vincent Chia, Marion Smith, Matt O’Connell (Vice Chair), Allan Holden (Board Chair), Sonya Fitzgerald (Secretary) Absent: Fr Chris Orr.
The Board would like to extend their gratitude to the many people who support the Centre so generously with their prayers, time, money and talents.