FAST24 (Parish Lenten Retreat)

Fr Jason Yeap’s path to the priesthood was anything but straightforward. Once a hydrologist in Perth with an engineering degree, he felt an unexpected call to discern the priesthood, leading him to St Charles' Seminary. Now an assistant priest at St Mary’s Cathedral, Fr Jason finds deep joy in ministry, especially supporting young adults in their faith journey.  

His story is one of doubt, discovery, and ultimately, hope—hope found in life’s unexpected twists and turns. Fr Jason's experience reminds us that hope is more than a feeling; it is an invitation to a mission. Could God be calling you to be an apostle for today? Come and hear his inspiring story at FAST24.

Mary McLean brings a wealth of experience in service and faith. Born in Ireland and having raised her family in Australia, Mary has dedicated much of her life to supporting the elderly and the incarcerated. A former parishioner of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Parish in Riverton, Mary currently resides in the Diocese of Bunbury where she has become one of Western Australia's first female acolytes. 

With a background in Theology from Notre Dame University, Fremantle, and a lifelong love for Christ and the Church, Mary's journey is one of service, dedication, resilience, and hope. Her story, to be shared at FAST24, will inspire all who seek to deepen their faith and find purpose in volunteering.

Ivan Lazar is a dedicated high school teacher and Dad to several youth leaders in the Catholic Youth Apostolate. Passionate about family and travel, Ivan has embraced his calling not only as an educator but as a friend and mentor to fellow parents in the parish community.  He is a parishioner of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Riverton. 

At FAST24, Ivan will share how his journey as a parent and teacher, has shaped his understanding of hope and discipleship in daily life, inspiring others to embrace their own calling to be Apostles for Today in practical ways.

Adam Phillips, Director of Catholic Youth Ministry for the Perth Archdiocese, first encountered his calling to faith and youth ministry through Antioch. A long-time member of his parish’s music ministry and an active leader in Scouting, Adam has dedicated his life to walking alongside young people on their faith journeys.  

Passionate about creating spaces where youth feel accepted and connected to the Church, Adam will speak at FAST24 on Pilgrims of Hope – The Pilgrimage of Life (Salvation) – reflecting on how life’s journey, with its challenges and joys, leads us closer to God’s purpose for us.

Raised in a faith-filled family, Penelope saw the impact of youth ministry through her parents’ dedication. As a teenager, she struggled with society’s misconceptions about Catholicism but found strength in music and encounters at Veritas and ACYF.

Now the Mission and Ministry Coordinator at Catholic Youth Ministry Perth, she is passionate about guiding others in their faith. At FAST24, Penelope will share her journey of embracing faith as her identity and living it with courage.