Since being named Bishop of Christchurch in 2022, Bishop Michael Gielen has a proven track record of success in inspiring and nurturing parish renewal leadership within his archdiocese. It was this message of hope and practical evangelisation, that Bishop Michael brought to the 'Way of Hope' Alpha conference in late October, 2025. It all began as a young priest, leading communities through the devastation of the 2011 earthquakes. Bishop Gielen learnt that rebuilding parish communities requires both physical and spiritual renewal. but his message is clear: "Transformation is possible. It can be done."