For four decades, WelCom has been a steadfast voice for the Catholic communities of the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North. Since its first issue in September 1984, the newspaper has informed, educated, and inspired thousands of readers. Now, with its 430th and final edition, WelCom bids farewell, marking the end of an era.
To honour this milestone, we have gathered several articles from that last issue, along with a message from Bishop John, who encourages everyone to continue engaging with Tūmanako now that WelCom is no more.
A Vision Realised
The origins of WelCom date back to Cardinal Tom Williams’ vision for a Catholic newspaper that would share the good news of the archdiocese. As he wrote in the first edition:
“Our Catholic people and organisations have good news to share. Without some form of Archdiocesan newspaper, that good news will remain largely untold.”
Initially focused on major diocesan projects and financial transparency, WelCom quickly grew into a vital platform for papal messages, theological reflections, and community stories. Over time, it became a bridge connecting the faithful, fostering dialogue, and reinforcing the unity of the Church.
A Changing Landscape
The media landscape has transformed drastically since WelCom’s inception. Once a primary source of Catholic news, the newspaper has had to adapt to the rise of digital media, social platforms, and instant communication. As Cardinal John Dew acknowledges:
“WelCom has served thousands of people over the two dioceses for forty years. It has educated and informed us about our local churches, as well as our Church nationally and internationally. It has been a resource that is informative, educational, and, I believe, an instrument of HOPE.”
Emeritus Bishop Peter Cullinane also reflects on its role:
“WelCom went looking for its readers. Online communications will be there for those who go looking for it—pastorally speaking, a different model.”
With these shifts, the time has come for WelCom to step aside, making way for new methods of communication that align with the evolving needs of the Church.
Annette Scullion, who has served as WelCom’s editor since 2014, reflects on her nearly 11 years as editor:
“It has been a privilege for me to hold the position of editor… to continue to bring faith-based news into the homes of Catholic families and whānau throughout the Archdiocese of Wellington and the Diocese of Palmerston North.”
A Legacy of Hope and Connection
Over the years, WelCom has provided a space for critical discussions, ethical reflections, and pastoral encouragement. As Pope Francis reminds us:
“The duty of those who work in communications is to encourage closeness, to give voice to the excluded, to draw attention to what we normally discard and ignore.”
The newspaper has connected the community through initiatives like Hīkoi Whakapono, a journey that began in 2017 to visit every parish, school, and faith community, including Māori Eucharistic communities and cultural groups. Reflecting on its impact, Annette Scullion shares:
“Feedback I often hear from readers is that ‘WelCom connects us to what is going on.’ We are mindful this is the Bishops’ publication and we seek to report on significant events within the Church and beyond, drawing on the richness, values and ethical teachings the Catholic Church stands for based on the Gospels of Jesus Christ.”
Contributors like Dr Elizabeth Julian rsm have valued WelCom as a friend and guide, writing:
“A friend knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes. WelCom over the years has been that friend to many.”
The Nathaniel Centre for Bioethics, which has worked closely with WelCom, also acknowledges its impact:
“The past 25 years have seen significant biotech developments. We have found WelCom to be an effective means for keeping people informed. It is with sadness we hear this is the final issue.”
Haere Rā, welCom
As we bid farewell to WelCom, we express our deep gratitude to its editors, contributors, and supporters who have shaped its legacy. From Fr Bernie Hehir to Annette Scullion, from parish distributors to advertisers, each has played a role in making WelCom a cherished part of Catholic life.
Though the printed pages of WelCom may close, its legacy endures in the hearts and minds of those it has reached. As we move into a new era of Church communication, we carry forward the hope, faith, and community spirit that WelCom has nurtured for forty years.