YOUNG people in Townsville interested in participating in World Youth Day 2005 gathered at Holy Spirit Church, Cranbrook on May 30 for a youth forum.
During the forum the group discussed what was involved for young people who wanted to join the Queensland pilgrimage to Cologne, Germany next year.
They received inspiration from Stephen Anderson and Olivia Horner who shared their stories of attending World Youth Day in Rome 2000 and Toronto 2002.
Diocesan youth co-ordinator Rachel Grahl said by the end of the session most in the group were eager to become pilgrims next year.
She said they also came up with a number of ideas for fundraising.
Rachel said young people living in rural and remote parishes were welcome to join the pilgrimage.
The group also took the opportunity, through the forum, to discuss how youth ministry could move forward in the diocese.
‘After getting an update on the diocesan pastoral council, the group came up with some really positive and encouraging ideas around what young people need from the Church and what they can give back,’ Rachel said.
‘We are going to focus on getting the message out into the community and keeping our initiatives practical,’ she said.
A Pentecost Mass followed the forum, celebrated by priest-in-residence Fr Terry Lyons to a packed church.
‘The music was fantastic and really brought the Mass alive,’ Rachel said.
‘In our reflection we remembered how we can enjoy the fruits of the Holy Spirit in our lives.’
Afterwards so many people remained for pizza that Rachel said she would have to remember to order more next time.
Another youth Mass is planned for early August.
For more information on upcoming youth activities in Townsville diocese e-mail youth@tsv.catholic.org.au
