YOUNG people and youth ministry enthusiasts travelled from throughout Queensland for the State Catholic Youth Convention from September 27-29.
Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane joined in the opening celebrations at Australian Catholic University’s McAuley Campus, sharing his faith journey.
An initiative of the Queensland Catholic Diocesan Youth Co-ordinators, the weekend aimed to provide useful training for those involved in ministry to young people.
Parish Youth Ministry Services co-ordinator Michael Hart said the weekend was packed with workshops looking at the different components involved in ministry to young people.
‘There were interactive workshops on justice, communication, planning and leadership, liturgy, social teaching and adolescent development,’ Michael said. ‘Experts in their fields gave their time to share their knowledge and wisdom to developing youth ministry across Queensland.’
The theme for the weekend conference, ‘It’s About Time’, was taken from the reading of the day, but also fitted in with youth ministry.
‘Time is always a factor,’ Michael said. ‘You never know if it’s the right time for ministry with young people, or whether you have enough time to dedicate, or whether things are an investment in time’.
Saturday night provided participants and visitors with an opportunity to hear two of Brisbane’s best bands, Shifter and Daybridges, as well as the comedy antics of Mick Tome at a free concert on the lawns at ACU.
Rockhampton diocesan youth co-ordinator Joy Philippi said the convention was a great gathering of those interested in young people in the Church.
‘It was amazing to see the number of people from different parts of the state, and within that, from a variety of ministries involving young people – teachers, parish youth ministry co-ordinators, campus ministers, APREs, parents and friends,’ Joy said. ‘A dream became reality due to the desire and inspiration of others.
‘There is a wealth of experience and skills in ministry with young people. ‘This convention gave people an opportunity to explore the possibilities of ministry with young people and the variety of ways in which we can share the Gospel with them.’
