On 4–5 November, the Diocesan Youth Ministers gathered to discuss matters relating to youth in the Palmerston North Diocese.
We have a dynamic and enterprising group of ministers who reflected on the importance of staying current with Church teachings and being critically reflective in reading the signs of the times—especially as we carry the mantle of responsibility to be exemplary witnesses of faith to young people.
Together, we celebrated Mass in the Cathedral and discussed everything from health and safety to planning upcoming events, including the annual Palmerston North World Youth Day, now held on the first weekend of August. The old saying that “youth are the future of the Church” is not untrue, but equally, they are the now of the Church! These ministers are committed to making that reality come alive for our young people.
Our ministers are actively involved in the National LifeTeen Summer Camp and are currently preparing for the diocesan-wide Young Catholic Leader programme for Year 12 students returning as Year 13 leaders. These young leaders will help shape the special character of our Catholic schools and beyond. Recently, they completed a retreat called Growing Young in Inglewood at Vertical Horizons.
Our diocese can be very proud of these efforts to make Jesus known and loved in every corner of our community. If you have a heart for the young Church, please connect with your youth ministers and support them in the faith formation of our young people.
Mauri Ora!
Shown in group photo below:
Back row (l-r): Nick Wilson (Pastoral Services Director), Joylene Wibley (Youth Minister of the Catholic Parish of Napier), Susilo Kentjana (Youth Minister of the Catholic Parish of New Plymouth)
Front row (l-r): Jacqueline Siu (Youth Leader’s Volunteer from the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit), Faaki Tuanaki (Youth Minister of the Catholic Parish of Hastings), Victoria Arrowsmith (Youth Leader’s Volunteer from the Catholic Parish of Whanganui), Rain Shore (Youth Minister of the Catholic Parish of Whanganui), Louise Lloyd (Youth Minister of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit)
(Photos: Susilo Kentjana)
