THE National Evangelisation Team (NET) which has been serving Cairns diocese this year say they have had ‘an awesome time’.
The team comprises Lydia Silvas, Paula Buchalski and Alec Campbell from the US, Jean Allwood from Clermont in Rockhampton diocese, and Lorenzo Martinez from Perth.
Their final youth Mass and rally was celebrated in St Monica’s Cathedral on October 27.
The team, in a farewell message, thanked Bishop James Foley ‘for caring for youth and for supporting us throughout the year’.
They thanked ‘all the priests who have welcomed us into their parishes and made us feel so welcome … (and) the staff in the bishop’s office, who have kept smiles on their faces and brightened our day’.
They also thanked Gordonvale parish, where they have been based.
‘Having a place we can call home is so wonderful. ‘Fr Sckmick Mick’ – parish priest Fr Michael Bonner, thanks for letting us use your office all the time. We really appreciate it. Even when we left things on or forgot to close the blinds you were still patient and loving with us. Thanks Fr Bonner – you rock.’
The team gave a special thanks to the youth with whom they worked: ‘Hey young people, and you know who you are, it’s been an honour and privilege to call you friends for the past year.
‘Thanks for being so open, sharing jokes, stories and your life with us. We can honestly say we’re better people for having met you all.’
The team had a final word of advice for the young people: ‘Keep growing in your faith and when you search with all your heart you will find Jesus!
‘If there’s anything we want to leave with you it would be this: Jesus loves you! Plain and simple and if you remember this, then you’re set for life.’
