Overview

Shane has ministered and taught in the area of Christian Spirituality since completing his postgraduate studies in 1998. He is a trained spiritual director, retreat leader and pastoral ministry supervisor. He has served as the Academic Dean of the Broken Bay Institute and the Director of National Centre for Evangelisation. He is currently the Executive General Manager for Mission with Mercy Community Services Queensland. He is completing his DTheol with the University of Divinity.

Academic biography/achievements

A member of the Australian Catholic Theological Association (ACTA) and the International Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality.

Research

Current research on the relevance of significant writers from the Catholic mystical tradition to the contemporary quest for authenticity, meaning and identity. Initially focussed on the contribution of Ignatius Loyola, attention has turned to the writings of John of the Cross. Charles Taylor’s commentary on the contemporary desire for authenticity is central. 

In the context of his current role, research is directed towards developing a response to the identity and faith-related needs of Catholic community services agencies in today’s socially complex environment.

Also, in response to changes in aged care legislation impacting mid-2025, research is being undertaken on developments in the philosophical foundations of aged care as person-centred care.  

Teaching

Shane has taught units at tertiary level on the history of Christian Spirituality, the introduction to Christian Spirituality, the theology and practice of Prayer, and Sacramental theology. He has developed and taught courses at the pre-academic level introducing Catholic Theology, Scripture, Sacraments, Liturgy and Mission. He has authored prayer and reflection resources related to Advent, Lent/Easter, in preparation for the Year of Grace and the Year of Faith, and for daily use. 

Media involvement as an academic

Shane developed and contributed to the video series ‘Going Deeper’ inviting participants to reflect on the meaning of central elements of the Catholic faith to our lives and mission today. He also hosted a podcast series of the same name. A new video series on living the Catholic faith today is in development with Shalom World media. 

Church and community engagement

Shane has frequently delivered seminars and retreats for parishes and dioceses over the last 25 years. He is active as a spiritual director and retreat leader. 

University Appointments

Lecturer in Spirituality (Catholic Theological College)