The Jesus Youth movement, a global Catholic missionary initiative rooted in the Charismatic Renewal, has quietly changed lives since its founding in India in 1979. Now active in over 35 countries, including Australia, it continues to thrive. Source: Catholic Voice.
One of its standout programs, the five-day Trend Setters retreat, recently wrapped up in Canberra, leaving participants spiritually renewed and inspired.
“Trend Setters is more than just a retreat; it’s a charismatic journey that strengthens faith and fosters a personal encounter with God,” Andrea Thomas, a coordinator and law student, said.
“We had 21 participants this year, and every one of them left transformed – dancing with joy and love for God by the end,” Ms Thomas said.
The retreat combined adoration, reconciliation, and empowering talks, encouraging young people to take ownership of their faith.
“We were privileged to have George Davis, a former international coordinator, lead sessions,” she said.
“But we also pushed our youth leaders to step up, lead adoration, and share their testimonies. It’s about building courage and faith in our community.”
For participants like Aaron Sebastian, a student at the Australian National University, the experience was deeply personal.
“Before coming here, I was sceptical,” he admitted. “But during adoration, I found myself in tears, touched by the Holy Spirit. It wasn’t sadness or happiness – it was something beyond words.”
Mr Sebastian, who teaches Sunday school, now feels a renewed sense of purpose
“This retreat deepened my connection with God. I’m committed to continuing Bible studies and evangelisation,” he said.
For these young participants, the Trend Setters retreat was more than a spiritual getaway – it was a call to action. As Ms Thomas put it, “You can’t stay on the mountaintop. You have to go into the valleys and transform the world with God’s love.”
FULL STORY
Faith in Action: The Transformative Power of the Trend Setters Retreat (By Jeanine Doyle, Catholic Voice)
