MANY of the more than 80 young Queenslanders attending this year’s Movers and Shakers Youth Leadership Program are expected to play a major part in the success of World Youth Day 2008.
Ministry development officer of the Youth and Children’s Ministry Team, Malcolm Hart, said the program would help train youth leaders for the event.
“Proper training of such young leaders will have a dramatic impact on the success of the pilgrimages,” he said.
“Leadership of small groups and other roles for young leaders are essential in the life of communities in the lead up to and post WYD 2008.”
The program, from April 10-15 on the Sunshine Coast, is an initiative of the Queensland Catholic Diocesan Youth Co-ordinators and the Queensland bishops.
It has grown into a key leadership development strategy for schools and parishes around the state since its inception 17 years ago.
Townsville diocese, which is sending 20 young people, will send one of the largest group of participants.
Townsville Diocesan Youth Ministry co-ordinator, Rachel Grahl, has seen the popularity of Movers and Shakers grow in the diocese in recent years.
“Schools and parishes have made it a key event in Townsville’s annual calendar,” she said.
“The young people who attend the program not only develop great leadership skills, but return energised and proactively seeking involvement in their faith communities.
“This has led to the sending of increased numbers this year to build upon exciting initiatives started as a result of the program so far.”
For further information about the Movers and Shakers program phone Malcolm Hart on (07) 3336 9169 or email hartmal@bne.catholic.net.au
