For Georgia, attending the Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocese’s Youth Ministry Equipping School was about seeking something many young Catholics say can be hard to find at times – community. Source: Catholic Voice.
The St Clare’s College student said gathering with other young people who shared her faith was one of the most meaningful parts of the event.
“Community is really important to me, and getting to know like-minded people from other schools is important because it can feel isolating when it’s just you,” she said. “Knowing that you’re not alone – I really love that part.”
Georgia was among more than 200 students, teachers and youth ministry leaders who gathered in Haydon Hall at St Christopher’s Cathedral parish for this year’s YMES, held February on 27–28, to deepen their faith and learn how to strengthen youth ministry in their schools.
Addressing the young people gathered for the session, Canberra-Goulburn Archbishop Christopher Prowse encouraged them to be open to what God might do in their lives over the two-day program.
“You’re here because something really great has been happening over the last few years with this initiative,” he said. “I can really feel the Holy Spirit moving in your lives. It has happened to people before you, and I want it to happen to you as well. This could be a game changer in your life.”
For St Mary MacKillop College student, Noah, it was exactly that.
“I came last year, and had a powerful experience,” he said. “It was my first big faith encounter.”
This year, he brought his friends.
Catholic Education’s Project Officer for New Evangelisation in Catholic Schools, Nathan Galea, said YMES continued to grow each year, with students travelling from other dioceses, including Broken Bay, Wagga Wagga and Sandhurst.
“It’s a great momentum, I think, of what’s happening in our schools around evangelisation, and that young people want to start to take up their role in active participation in the life of the Church,” he said.
Participants took part in workshops, lectures and formation sessions.
FULL STORY
Youth Ministry Equipping School inspires new generation of leaders (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
