A WEEKEND youth retreat at Laidley, near Ipswich, fired the enthusiasm of participants.
Martin Thorsen was one of a group of Brisbane young people who organised the Transforming Fire weekend on October 19-21. He said 27 young people attended from Toowoomba, Laidley, Brisbane and the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.
‘The theme for the weekend, which was run by the Missionaries of God’s Love, was ‘Walk with the Saints’, using the lives of various saints to talk about topics such as God’s love, salvation, forgiveness and mission.
He said that, on the surface, the theme may not sound exciting but the way it was put together was amazing.
‘The Missionaries of God’s Love were able to mix humour and current trends with their strong belief, faith and love of Jesus. If any of them had a second calling it would be in acting and drama.’
Martin said the weekend skits included a ‘Roy and HG’ style look at ‘the saintly life’ and a David Attenborough type look at the ‘Christians’ species.
‘One of the Missionaries of God’s Love Sisters became an Oprah-like figure called ‘Dopah’ who introduced each topic, so the whole weekend was based like a talk show.’
He said some of the saints covered included St Francis of Assisi, St Therese of Lisieux and St Augustine.
Martin said the weekend also included a lot of music and Reconciliation on the Saturday afternoon.
After dinner there was a spectacular session on the Holy Spirit with a talk by Missionary of God’s Love priest, Fr Anthony Phillips, then adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and praise and worship. The night finished with a bonfire.
Martin said the weekend ended with a Sunday Mass and was a great success.
‘The weekend was the most fun I have had in a long time and I learnt a lot, it helped me grow in my faith and want to grow in my faith.’
Martin said it was hoped the group who attended would establish an informal network to instigate further activities in the future.
