Lawrence Kai, founder of Shepherd’s Heart, is an experienced speaker, lecturer, retreat leader, podcaster and author known for presenting the Catholic faith with clarity and captivating engagement. Trained in spiritual direction, Lawrence brings a warm, pastoral tone to his work, while his solid theological background adds depth to every presentation. Lawrence is currently based in Melbourne, Australia.
Services Lawrence offers
Keynote Speaker
- Lawrence Kai is the presenter of the international renowned Catholic podcast The Myth Pilgrim, with 100+ episodes to date
- Lawrence offers you captivating, warm and visually engaging presentations in:
- Catholic faith formation: with 10+ years experiencing teaching in the RCIA program, presenting lectures and workshops for the faithful of all ages
- Catholic spirituality and prayer: informed by his work in spiritual direction
- Sacramental Preparation programs and retreats
- Dialoguing with the unchurched: informed through years of teaching RCIA and leadership roles in Alpha Courses
- Christianity within contemporary culture
- Emotions and relationship dynamics
- Catholic teaching on love and sexuality (The Theology of the Body) for various audience ages
1:1 Professional Development and Coaching
Lawrence offers a wealth of expertise in the professional development of teachers, church leaders and ministry groups. He brings a warm and clear blend of life coaching, spiritual direction, and pastoral care, complemented by extensive experience in group and ministry supervision. He is available for one-on-one sessions with individuals, staff and teachers, providing personalised support and guidance.
You can see more of his offerings and rates through his Coaching with Lawrence website
His credentials include:
– Master of Theology (UDiv, CTC)
– Bachelor of Ministry (UDiv)
– Grad Dip in Spiritual Direction (Heart of Life)
– Practitioner of Life Coaching (ICI)
– Theology of the Body Immersion 1+2 (TOB Institute)
Retreats and Workshops
Lawrence has experience running retreats (half day, weekend, 8-day retreats) for staff, students, seminarians, youth groups, artists, RCIA groups and Alpha attendees. Some of his themes have included:
- Discerning God’s Will
- Sacramental Preparation Workshops
- Deepening in Prayer
- Parish Leadership Formation / Vision Casting
- Faith & Emotions
- The Masculine Spiritual Journey
- Discipling, and creating a discipleship culture
- 5 Saints that Saved Civilisation
He is also the content creator of two 7-week formation courses for St Benedict’s, Burwood & St Scholastica’s Bennettswood:
- Foundations: 7 week course for those who have just completed Alpha and RCIA
- Flourish: 7-week course for Catholics looking to go deeper
“Our staff retreat with Lawrence was one of the most grounded, healing, and spacious experiences we’ve shared as a team. As both a spiritual director and coach, Lawrence held the space with remarkable presence—gently inviting us into deeper reflection, authentic connection, and meaningful integration. What stood out was how safe and seen we felt.”
— Steph Tan | Mission Coordinator, St Benedicts Burwood
“Working with Lawrence has been transformative. His deep listening, gentle presence, and thoughtful insights have guided me through pivotal moments—not only in my faith journey, but also across my personal and professional life. Lawrence has a remarkable gift for asking the right questions at the right time, helping me uncover clarity and courage.”
— E. Jullien | Philanthropy Executive, Variety Children’s Charity
“Lawrence delivered high-quality Professional Development sessions that were relatable, contemporary and aligned with the R.E. curriculum. I am excited to teach students through Jesus & myth, Aboriginal spirituality and contemporary prayers in my R.E. classes, and I look forward to more P.D. from Shepherd’s Heart in the future.“
— JAN HOLEWA | R.E. TEACHER, ST. JOSEPH’s CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Lawrence formed our young Vincentian leaders and volunteers, and these experiences were truly inspiring. Lawrence’s gift of words, creativity in presenting, and courage to explore deeper, often-unspoken topics touched our hearts. He meets each person where they are, offering nourishment for growth. He is what this generation of leaders needs!
—Sr Angela Uybarreta MGL | Spiritual Advisor, St Vincent de Paul Society AUSTRALIA)
“Having had Lawrence as a spiritual director, teacher and colleague for a number of years I can attest to the quality of the man and his work. He is thorough and inspired, combining a love for the good, true and beautiful with a deep commitment to excellence. I recommend him to anyone looking for a Catholic teacher, director or coach.”
—BR. JAMES PRICE MGL
“My sessions with Lawrence always leave me feeling encouraged and deeply thoughtful. His understanding of the human mind and heart taps into the best of both psychology and spiritual wisdom. He helps me to look at reality in a deeper way and see the purpose in so many aspects of my life that I don’t always notice.“
— THOMAS MILLS | TEACHER, JOSEPH J. MARTIN MIDDLE SCHOOL
“Lawrence created the space our Pastoral Committee deeply needed for our retreat. He facilitated a calm yet engaging environment where we could grow spiritually, reconnect as a team, and discern more clearly the direction God is calling our community to take. It was a truly inspiring and impactful experience – one we will cherish for years to come.”
— KATRINA KONG | LITURGY COORDINATOR, MELBOURNE CATHOLIC CHINESE COMMUNITY