THE exuberance of NET (National Evangelisation Teams) cast its spirit among the young people of Annerley Ekibin parish on February 24.
More than 30 young parishioners kick started their year with a day retreat facilitated by NET members.
The day began with Mass and the words: ‘Say hello to the person next to you, look lovingly into their eyes and say: “I give you permission to sing”’.
The singing continued for the rest of the day, along with drama, discussion groups, prayer, meditation and pizza.
This was NET’s second visit to the parish.
They joined in a Mass and workshop last year and due to popular demand, returned for the day retreat.
Parent and youth group organiser Maria Munro said the team injected a terrific spark into the parish.
‘It was a wonderful day, nobody really wanted to leave when it was all over,’ she said.
‘It was an energetic and meaningful way to start the year with our youth group.
‘It also gave them a lot to think about and hopefully created some new friendships among the Church community.’
Hosa, one of the NET members from the United States, created a permanent reminder of her visit when she asked the young people to sign her guitar case in gold pen.
Kel and Lara Munro said they had no regrets about giving up a Sunday.
‘We talked about ourselves and our faith and it was great, especially the games,’ said Kel.
‘I liked that the NET team were only a few years older than us and they were easy to relate to,’ added Lara.
The youth of Annerley Ekibin have a jam-packed year ahead of them.
Activities include indoor rock climbing, ice skating, volunteering for St Vinnies and a progressive dinner.
Their next event will be the Stations of the Cross at Mary Immaculate Church, Annerley on Good Friday.
