By Emilie Ng
AUSTRALIA’S Capuchin friars led 80 young Catholics in the first national Capuchin Franciscan youth festival held in New South Wales late last month.
Guided by the theme “Rebuild My Church”, the words St Francis heard God say to him in prayer, the festival brought young people across Australia to a deeper understanding of Franciscan spirituality.
International Capuchin speakers included former general minister of the order Canadian Bishop John Corriveau, and Fr Paul Dressler from Washington DC.
Australian friars Fr Gary Devery and Fr Robert Stewart also gave keynote talks.
Many of the young friars from around the country offered their courage and support.
Capuchin vocation director Fr Thomas McFadden said the inaugural festival was “a very joyful four days of faith, fun and inspiration”.
The Capuchin friars called on the support of their young adults from Sydney who meet regularly in Sydney for Adoration, Mass, dinner and formation or activities.
Fr McFadden said the joy from the young people at the festival could ripple into other groups associated with the friars in other cities.
“It is hoped that the energy of this young group will spread also to the establishment of similar groups at the Capuchin presences in Melbourne and Brisbane,” Fr McFadden said.
Fr McFadden said the organising team was already looking forward to a follow-up event next year.
