The 2026 Australian Maronite Convention brought young Catholics from across Australia and New Zealand to New South Wales, for three days of faith, dialogue and fellowship. Source: The Catholic Weekly.
Maronite Youth Australia organised the February 6-8 conference, held at the Tops Conference Centre in Stanwell Tops.
Marked by keynote addresses, engaging activities and meaningful conversations, the gathering culminated in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy led by His Excellency Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay, Bishop of the Maronite Eparchy of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania.
The theme “Arise” echoed the words of the prophet Isaiah: “Arise, shine, for your light has come”.
In a culture shaped by distraction and uncertainty, the convention challenged young people not to remain passive observers of their faith, but to consider how their beliefs shape daily decisions and relationships.
The call to arise with light also reflected Christ’s words, “Let your light shine before others” (Matthew 5:16), encouraging authentic faith in family life, parishes, universities and workplaces.
The opening keynote by Sydney Auxiliary Bishop Tony Percy invited attendees to examine how faith can remain visible and grounded within contemporary society, setting the tone for a weekend of reflection and honest dialogue.
Saturday formed the heart of the convention. Sessions addressed issues that resonate deeply with young adults, including identity, mental health and the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
Rather than avoiding complex questions, speakers engaged them with clarity, drawing from Catholic teaching while acknowledging the realities experienced by young people today.
The convention also demonstrated the strength of the Maronite community across Australia and New Zealand. Young people travelled from various states, including a group of 66 from Melbourne led by Fr Richard Jabbour.
Despite geographical distance, participants were united by shared faith and tradition.
Tony El-Ghossein serves in youth ministry at St John the Beloved Maronite Catholic Church in Mount Druitt, Sydney.
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Maronite youth gather for talks, prayer, and renewal (By Tony Ghossein, The Catholic Weekly)
