Illuminating our Primary schools

For the very first time, over 300 excited year five and six students from eight Catholic primary schools were involved in the second phase of the Youth Ministry CSYMA Jnr Pilot. The students gathered at St Vincent’s Primary School for the “Illuminate” student Conference.

Illuminate is part of a growing and evolving faith formation pathway in youth ministry. The program focuses on working with year five and six students in Catholic schools and parishes in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.

The day was lead by Archdiocesan Youth Minsters who alongside Priests and Diocesan leaders coordinated a number of interactive workshops. These activities became a highlight for the students during the conference, providing them with a unique age-appropriate opportunity to learn and express their faith.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse affirmed the joy of the youth while introducing the conference theme. He reminded the young ones that they have a special job as the “Church of Now” and that they are called to illuminate the world around them with the light of Christ.

Sarah Larkin, a youth minister at St Vincent’s Primary School and South Belconnen Parish said that she, “really loved seeing all of the students mingling with one another” and commented on how excited they were at the event. Sarah said she looked forward to touching base with them and hearing about their reflections of the day.

Nathan Galea Project Officer for the New Evangelisation, Catholic Education and Coordinator of the event said “In an age where our young ones aren’t in our parishes and many families are disengaged from the Church, Illuminate reflected the power that can be achieved when the catholic community works together to live out the joy of the gospel.”

The CSYMA jnr model provides a great framework for students to deepen in their faith and encounter Jesus through the very best of our Catholic Faith.

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