Our Staff
Theresa Mischewski
Director
I was brought up in a large Catholic, prolife family and moved to Christchurch in 2020 to study Management and Marketing at the University of Canterbury. In Christchurch I joined the exec of the Pro-life UC club, and helped out as a facilitator for the Loving for Life sexuality and relationships program in schools, attending several Theology of the Body courses and being the president of the CathSoc Club. In addition, I am currently working towards completing my training to become a teacher of the Billings ovulation method for natural family planning. Now in my role as director of the John Paul II Centre for Life I can promote life, marriage and family – a job I am very passionate about.
Lara Paterson
Seeds of Hope Coordinator
My journey began when I took on the role of Pregnancy Support Worker for the John Paul II Centre for Life. I have been honoured to walk alongside women and their families in times of grief when they have lost a child before birth. I have also supported women when they have faced an unexpected pregnancy, through full information and support. This includes parent care coordination and case management for couples who have been given a prenatal diagnosis, grief support after a loss and abortion healing. Accompanying families through this challenging time to find peace and healing is a true honour, knowing that faith, prayer and the sacraments are all important tools to assist us on the way.
Our Board
