Our Team
Rev Dr Chris Ryan MGL, Director
Fr Chris is currently the parish priest of Penshurst and Peakhurst parishes. He has been involved in leadership in youth ministry in new communities, parishes and schools since 1993, and was the coordinator of the pilgrimage of the World Youth Day Cross and Icon in preparation for World Youth Day 2008. Fr Chris' PhD focused upon the RCIA as a resource for the theology and practice of youth ministry. He is the co-editor of Australian Catholic Youth Ministry: Theological and Pastoral Foundations for Faithful Ministry and the author of In the Light of the Cross and Bring Forth Hope: Pope Francis Speaks to the Youth of the World, which both provide reflections for young people on Christ and the Catholic faith.
Fr Tony Alex MGL,
Deputy Director
Fr Tony is currently the assistant priest of Penshurst and Peakhurst parishes. He has a Bachelor of Economics and an MBA and was climbing the corporate ladder when he heard the call of God. He has been involved in various forms of Leadership and Mission for the last 15 years. He has studied, ministered and done pastoral work in India, Germany, Ghana, Italy, New Zealand and Malta, and is used to ministering across cultures.
Laura Neeson,
General Manager,
Communications Manager
Laura Neeson is a seasoned Communications Specialist with over two decades of expertise in the field. She has served as a PR & Marketing Director at renowned consumer PR agencies, overseeing creative direction and brand management for numerous Australian consumer brands. Additionally, Laura established and successfully managed her own PR & Events Consultancy for 12 years. Currently, Laura is engaged in ongoing work with Sydney Catholic Schools as a Family Educator and is concurrently pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies. Most importantly, Laura is a devoted wife and mother of two.
Felicity Chang,
Program Coordinator
Felicity Chang, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a Master's in Professional Accounting, brings over twenty years of experience in Accounting, marketing and project management to the table. Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for event coordination highlight her versatile and comprehensive skill set. Beyond her professional endeavours, Felicity is actively involved in her parish and its ministries, serving as the Parish Safeguarding Support Officer demonstrating her passion and commitment to the well-being of others. In addition to her professional and parish ministry roles, Felicity is a devoted wife and loving mother.