Youth Ministry: Past Events

Transcription

1 Youth Ministry: Past Events The Amazing grace Games Night November 2014 Brisbane West Deanery Youth & Young Adult Amazing grace event December 2014

2 Deanery Picnic in the Park October 2014 Brisbane West Deanery Youth & Young Adult Picnic in the Park October 2014 Deanery Young Adult Retreat Day August 2014 A Deanery Young Adult Retreat Day was held on Sunday 10 th August 2014 at St Leo s College Chapel, St Lucia (within the University of Queensland). The retreat was directed by Fr Augustine Obi, Chaplain to the University of Queensland. Mass was celebrated as part of the day which included lunch, prayer, reflection, sharing and celebration.

3 Deanery Barefoot Bowls Day July 2014 Barefoot Bowls for Young Adults A fun day was had by all. Deanery Youth Mass April 2014 DEANERY YOUTH MASS ~ CHRIST THE KING GRACEVILLE SUNDAY 6TH APRIL 2014 Thank you to all who helped and participated in the Deanery Youth Mass, Sausage Sizzle, and Lenten Reflection Evening held at Christ the King Graceville in April. Your assistance, contribution, talent and generosity is greatly appreciated.

4 Christmas Movie Night December 2013 Best wishes to Josh A note from Grace Rutty in Canada September 2013 Youth, young adults and families gathered at Christ the King Graceville on the First Sunday of Advent for Mass followed by a Sausage Sizzle and the screening of a Christmas Family movie. People of all ages enjoyed watching Miracle on 34 th Street together, celebrating our final Deanery Youth event for God s Blessings to Joshua Choong, who is a Parishioner of St Ignatius Toowong and a former member of our Brisbane West Deanery Youth Ministry Team. Josh will be undertaking a period of discernment for religious life from February The prayers and best wishes of the parishioners of Brisbane West are with you Josh. A note from Grace Rutty in Canada.. Dear Parishioners of Brisbane West Deanery, It is hard to believe it has been so long since I arrived in Ottawa, Canada. I have learnt so much from God and the people around me! I would like to share one encounter with you from my first day here. I was given the privilege of giving God a chance. I went for a walk to a corner store when I was approached by a gentleman who requested my help in locating some items he couldn't find. Admittedly I was a bit apprehensive but decided to help him. He was trying to get school supplies for his Grade 5 son. I did my best to help him, then after,when I went to leave he told me would like to buy my shopping. I was very grateful and a bit taken aback from his offer but after he insisted, I obliged and thanked him. For me I admit at first I felt a bit awkward going to help the man, and a bit confused, but decided to just do it. It gave me a real perspective into seeing Jesus in everyone and a greater understanding in that if you are faithful to God in the little things he will always be faithful to you and provide for you in ways you would never dreamt of. I work with a great team of 4 other missionaries at Carleton University where we have had Mission Week in our first couple of weeks here! We spent it taking surveys of students regarding their faith, and from it used it as an opportunity for many spiritual conversations. I have been privileged to meet with many students and to let them know about our Lord and invite them to personally encounter Him. I am excited about the works already beginning in their lives, and in the lives of the students I will meet in the coming weeks! I feel like I am finally settling in here, but there a few quirky things I still find myself struggling with like crossing the street. It has been great to immerse myself in the Canadian culture and I have started picking up on little things that they say too. This past weekend I had the privilege of helping to staff the CCO Ottawa Fall Retreat. There, many university students were invited to encounter God and come and be made new. Thank you so much for the support you have already shown me! I look forward to staying in touch and keeping you up to date with the journey I am on and that I feel you are a part of too! God bless, Grace Grace is a parishioner of Darra Jindalee Parish and was a member of the Deanery Youth Ministry Team. Grace travelled to WYD Madrid with our Brisbane West Deanery Pilgrimage in She now works as a Freedom Missionary in Tertiary Campuses in Ottawa, Canada with Catholic Christian Outreach. Grace will bring back the skills that she learns in Canada and implement them in Brisbane. For more information on Freedom Catholic Mission on Campus here in Brisbane please visit

5 Deanery Youth Mass August 2013 Youth and young adults from across Brisbane West gathered with families and parishioners of the Deanery, to overflow St Mark s Church Inala, on Sunday evening 25 th August, for the Deanery Youth Mass. Mass commenced with a special entrance procession, with seven young adults processing in, carrying the names of their Parish. The logo of Brisbane West Deanery is the Eucharist the source and summit of our faith. When carried forward and placed on a banner, each of the parish names together formed the Eucharistic symbol on the Deanery Banner, highlighting that together we are one in the Body of Christ. If we remain separate, the body is not complete and can not function as a whole. A large youth choir and band, with members from across the Parishes of the Deanery led the Music Ministry at Mass. Our thanks to Nik Seow who directed the Music Team. Many have commented on the exceptional, prayerful and enjoyable Music Ministry at this Mass, and also on the number of young talented people involved. After Mass many families and young people stayed to socialise; enjoying Vietnamese treats, which were kindly made by the Parishioners of St Mark s. Then young adults gathered back inside the church to hear Anita Hendrie (Archdiocesan Youth Ministry Development Officer) share her experiences of faith and pilgrimage from the recent Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Chile and World Youth Day in Brazil. Our thanks to the Parishioners of St Mark s for their hospitality and to Fr Gerard Mulholland svd PP for celebrating Mass and for his support of the youth. World Youth Day Rio de Janeiro Barefoot Bowls Day July 2013 Anna Blumke, a young adult parishioner from Brisbane West and school teacher with Brisbane Catholic Education shares here experiences of travelling to World Youth Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro in July. I have just returned to school after spending the last couple of weeks in Rio de Janeiro as part of the Brisbane Catholic Education Teacher s Pilgrimage to the 14 th Annual International World Youth Day. The main theme for WYD 2013 was Go make disciples, of all nations and having shared this faith filled experience with other Catholics I am sure many of us will take this message with us on our own life journeys. When one thinks of South America, images of exotic landmarks and picturesque beaches come to mind and whilst we had the opportunity to enjoy some of the amazing cultural aspects of South America we also gave witness to the Catholic Faith with thousands of other young Catholics from around the world. Copacabana Beach was the setting for our outdoor celebrations beginning with the Opening Mass lead by the Bishop of Rio de Janeiro. Although the weather was a challenge at least half a million young Catholics braved the elements to attend. The following evening saw the arrival of Pope Francis I and the spirit of the people in the streets was one of anticipation and excitement. The week ahead brought with it opportunities for Catechises, The Way of the Cross, Sermons by the Pope, sharing of cultures and visits to significant Religious places. Over three million people gathered to celebrate the Vigil and the Closing Mass with Pope Francis. This once in a lifetime experience was indescribable. The experience of World Youth Day was one of personal, spiritual and cultural

6 growth that I hope to share with others. Weaved into all of our stories was a common language of Catholicism and prayer, joining together as one in the name of Jesus our Lord. Anna Blumke Barefoot Bowls Day June 2013 On a beautiful sunny winter s day, a group of young adults from Brisbane West Deanery braved the cold morning air to enjoy a social outing together playing barefoot lawn bowls. The warmth of the sunshine and good company was spectacular. All enjoyed the fun and laughter of the games and then gathered together for a BBQ lunch. After lunch the really committed members of the group returned to the greens to continue their competition. A fun filled day was enjoyed by all present. Steve Angrisano Twilight Retreat To Be Witnesses May 2013 Brisbane West Deanery had a very busy calendar last month, with the General Cosgrove speaking at the Year of Grace event on 30th April, Fr Rob Galea performing and ministering on 7th Mat and Steve Angrisano holding a Twilight Retreat on 20th May at Twelve Apostles Church Jindalee. Steve Angrisano is a dynamic storyteller, youth minister and musician from Texas USA. As part of a tour across the Archdiocese, he visited Brisbane West Deanery to hold a Twilight Retreat. Seventy people enjoyed Steve s moving, fun and often heart wrenching stories and music to learn how to be a stronger and better witness of the love and life of Jesus. Fr Rob Galea Music and Grace Event May 2013 One Hundred and Eighty parishioners gathered at St Joseph s Hall in May to hear an inspiring testimony and beautiful music by Father Rob Galea. All present delighted in Father Rob s gentle and honest sharing of stories of his childhood in Malta, his calling to the priesthood, and his love of God, life, ministry and music. The Deanery is truly blessed to have experienced Fr Rob s gentle, friendly ministry and to hear him perform his wonderful music of prayer and praise.

7 Deanery Youth Mass March 2013 Youth and young adults from across Brisbane West gathered with families and parishioners of the Deanery, along with 80 young ladies from Stuartholme School, to th overflow St Ignatius Church Toowong, on Sunday evening 17 March, for the Deanery Youth Mass. Mass commenced with a special entrance procession, with young men of the Deanery draping a large wooden cross in the purple colours of Lent. A youth choir and band filled the church with magnificent and inspiring music, under the direction of Mr Anthony Young. Members of the St Ignatius music team were joined by young men from St Laurence s College, as well as students from Stuartholme School, along with many musicians and choristers from across the Parishes of the Deanery. Fr Gerry Kalinowski, Dean of Brisbane West, enthusiastically celebrated the Mass at which 500 people were present. After Mass a great social gathering occurred with a BBQ and entertainment in the hall. Hundreds of sausages were consumed whilst music and singing provided wonderful entertainment by extraordinarily talented youth of the Deanery. Particular thanks go to Luisa Laughren and Anthony Young for organising such wonderful entertainment. The members of the Deanery Youth Team must also be thanked for all their work and help in organising such a successful event. Our next Deanery Youth event will be a special Music and Grace evening conducted by Fr Rob Galea. The Deanery has engaged Fr Rob and will be bringing him from Melbourne for this one special event in Brisbane. Fr Rob will share his Ministry of Word and Music in an evening of prayer and praise not to be missed. All youth, young adults and all parishioners of the Deanery are invited to this very special th event to be held at St Joseph s Hall, Corinda on Tuesday 7 May commencing at 7pm.

8 Deanery Young People s Trivia Night March 2013 On Friday evening, 1st March, 50 inquisitive young people aged 15 years plus, gathered at Holy Family Hall Indooroopilly for a Deanery Trivia Night. There was plenty of fun, food and laughter as teams came up with answers (some hilariously wrong answers, but lots of correct answers too) to six rounds of questions covering all manner of topics. Congratulations to the winning team from Twelve Apostles Jindalee, who, after winning a Restaurant Voucher as first prize, decided not to use it for themselves but instead offered the voucher as a Raffle Prize at a Darra Jindalee Parish fundraising event. This event raised $1300 for a Mission School in Papua New Guinea. Well done guys for the great example you have set! Thanks to all who attended the Trivia Night, especially the members of the Deanery Youth Ministry Team who worked so hard to organise the night, and conducted a fun and entertaining evening. In particular, thanks to Nik Seow who was the vibrant MC for the evening. Deanery Advent Adoration and Prayer Evening December 2012 h Youth of Brisbane West Deanery gathered on Tuesday evening 4 December, to conclude 2013 together in prayer, gathering at St Mark s Church Inala for an Advent Prayer evening. It was a fitting way to finish a busy year of Deanery youth events. Father Gerard Mulholland svd, Parish Priest of Inala, led the celebration. The Evening Prayer of the Church was prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, followed by Scripture and a reflection. A period of Adoration followed, and the evening concluded with Benediction. It was a very prayerful, reflective gathering for all, as the youth entered into the Psalms, Scripture, and silent personal prayer, resting lovingly in the presence of Christ during the Eucharistic Adoration. After the experience of silent reflective prayer, the group then enjoyed a Christmas party, to share in fellowship, laughter and loads of Christmas treats. Deanery Sports Day Kenmore August September 2012

9 Deanery Youth Mass August 2012 Youth and young adults from across Brisbane West gathered with families and parishioners of the Deanery, to fill Christ the King Church Graceville, on Sunday evening 5 th August, for the Deanery Youth Mass. Mass commenced with a special entrance procession, with seven young adults processing in, carrying the names of their Parish. The logo of Brisbane West Deanery is the Eucharist the source and summit of our faith. When carried forward and placed on a banner, each of the parish names together formed the Eucharistic symbol on the Deanery Banner, highlighting that together we are one in the Body of Christ. If we remain separate, the body is not complete and can not function as a whole. In the Gospel reading at the Mass, those who had gathered were reminded that man does not live on bread alone; that Jesus is the bread of life and that those who come to him will never be hungry and those who believe in him will never thirst. During the Preparation of Gifts young adults from the Tongan Community danced and sang with traditional Tongan dance, language and costume to bring forward the gifts of bread and wine. They also brought forward a lei of gardenias which was placed on Fr Gerry Kalinowski, who was the celebrant for the Mass. A large youth choir and band, with members representing each of the Parishes of the Brisbane West Deanery led the Music Ministry, which was directed by Helentherese Good. After Mass a great social gathering occurred with a BBQ and entertainment. Hundreds of sausages were consumed whilst music and singing was provided by the youth of the Deanery, with performances by Felicia and Aileen Nasalio, Jivon Lah-Youn, Nat Seow and Sheila Hie. Young Adult Retreat Day June 2012 On Sunday afternoon 24 th June, thirty young adults from across Brisbane West took time out to gather for a Retreat in the beautiful bushland setting of Shalom Place, Canossa Oxley. The retreat was gently and beautifully directed by our Dean, Fr Gerry Kalinowski. The Retreat was centred on the Year of Grace, to know Jesus, to contemplate His face and to listen to God s Word in the Scriptures. These thirty young adults from across the Deanery invested their Sunday in reflection and prayer, in order to nurture their spiritual lives, Fr Gerry said. They are an inspiration and a challenge, in the best sense, to us all. Their time is as precious as it is to each one of us. We are sure that our gracious God will reward them greatly for spending time to tune into God s intimations in their lives. Dave Nightingale of OLR Parish Kenmore, who attended the Retreat, said Sometimes we can get caught up in the pressures and busyness of our lives. The Retreat at Canossa was a welcomed opportunity to put all that aside for a moment and to be reminded of what is most important in God s eyes. Father Gerry asked the Deanery to continue to pray for these young people to be open to the movements of God s energetic Spirit in their lives, so that they will be empowered as enthusiastic disciples of Christ in their daily lives.

10 Youth in Liturgy Workshop May 2012 Elizabeth Harrington of the Brisbane Liturgical Commission facilitated part of the Youth in th Liturgy Workshop at Twelve Apostles Hall, Jindalee on Friday night 4 May. Musicians and singers from St Laurence s College, South Brisbane, generously gave of their Friday evening to sing and play at the workshop, helping to teach a new musical setting of the Mass and demonstrating different styles of Liturgical Music. Anita Hendrie, of the Archdiocesan Youth Ministry Team encouraged the young people of Brisbane West to be involved in parish liturgy and ministries. Anthony Young, Music Director at St Ignatius Parish Toowong, and also Head of Classroom Music at St Laurence s College brought much enthusiasm to the gathering, conducting the St Laurence s band and inspiring all who had gathered! Deanery Youth Mass March 2012 Youth and young adults from across Brisbane West gathered with families and parishioners of the Deanery, along with 80 young ladies from Stuartholme School, and th filled Our Lady of the Rosary Church Kenmore, on Sunday evening 4 March, for the first Deanery Youth Mass of 2012.

11 Mass commenced with a special entrance procession, with young men of the Deanery draping a large wooden cross in the purple colours of Lent. Then seven young adults processed in, carrying the names of their Parish, which, when placed together formed the Eucharistic symbol on the Deanery Banner. A youth choir and band, with members representing each of the Parishes of the Brisbane West Deanery led the inspiring Music during the Mass. Nik Seow brilliantly directed the wonderful combined Music team. Fr Francis Onwunali, Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary enthusiastically celebrated the Mass at which 400 people were present. Father Francis was assisted by Deacon Russ Nelson. A great social gathering occurred after Mass as supper was served. Then a special YOUTH Q&A session was held in the Church with fifty youth and young adults staying to pray, listen to faith stories, and ask questions. The three Guest Speakers for the Q&A shared stories of how they each live their faith in the world today and what has inspired them. The speakers were Fr Francis, Deacon Russ and Anita Hendrie of Faith & Life Vicariate s Youth Ministry Team, with Rachael Twigg as MC for the evening. We are grateful to the Deanery Youth Ministry Team, Kenmore Parish and the Kenmore Youth Team and all who participated in so many ways ministering in the Mass, serving supper and conducting the Q&A session. Youth gathered at the YOUTH Q&A event after Mass. Deanery Advent Adoration and Prayer Evening December 2011 Youth of Brisbane West Deanery gathered on Tuesday evening 6 th December, to conclude 2012 together in prayer. Over 40 teenagers and young adults gathered in the magnificent new Church of the Twelve Apostles at Jindalee for an Advent Prayer evening. It was a fitting way to finish a busy year of Deanery youth events, which included Youth Masses, Prayer Evenings, a Retreat Day, a Trivia Night, a Bushwalk at Cunningham s Gap, a Sports day, and a Deanery Pilgrimage to World Youth Day Madrid in August! Father Daniel Carroll, Parish Priest of Darra Jindalee, led the celebration. The Evening Prayer of the Church was prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, followed by Scripture and a reflection given by Father Carroll, who spoke to the young people about the importance of friendship and the true depth of real friendship, particularly our divine friendship with Jesus. A period of Adoration followed, and the evening concluded with Benediction. It was a very prayerful, reflective gathering for all, as the youth entered into the Psalms, Scripture, and silent personal prayer, resting lovingly in the presence of Christ during the Eucharistic Adoration. After the experience of silent reflective prayer, the group then moved to the Parish Hall for a Christmas party, to share in fellowship, laughter and loads of Christmas treats. Thanks to so many of our young people for being involved in each of the activities throughout Deanery Sports Day November 2011 Story by Larry Huynh - Photos by Yen Ho The Deanery Sports Day held at St Mark s Inala, on Saturday 26 th November was a fantastic day. We played games that I haven t played in so long that I couldn t even remember what they were. There were almost forty young people there and we were put into four teams: Cookies and Cream, JDJ, Cumquats and The Powerpuffs. We had a ridiculous point system, where Nik Seow, who led the day, kept giving points out whenever he liked. In the end everyone was a winner and had the same prize (fourth place got the biggest packet of lollies so I don t understand). But I had a really fun time. I asked my younger brother David what he thought of the day and of his first Deanery event. I wanted to get a sense of how he felt about the activities and the other people who engaged in

12 them. He said he had a really fun time and that the people were great and it reminded him of the games he played in primary school. I knew I felt the same way. In many ways, I felt immature, overexcited at times, and even belittled when people told me what to do, all of the same feelings I ironically recall feeling in my primary school days as a kid. We even had a healthy lunch loads of good tasting sandwiches and fruit -compliments of Michael Doherty. We played games like captain ball, tug of war, over and under, speed soccer and dodge ball and many more. I can t remember the last time I played any of them, and I felt so hopeless in all of them! To be fair, I haven t played any sports in a while. But in the end our team Cookies and Cream came third. One of the other things my brother also said about the day was that by watching everyone else have so much fun and become so engaged in the games that it made him want to become engaged in the activities also. That s one of the amazing things about these Deanery events and especially the young people of St. Mark s Inala Parish who hosted the Sports Day. Everyone was very fun and friendly and you couldn t help but develop a natural high on the day. It was nearly infectious. Rarely have I felt so welcomed by a group of near strangers. Originally I did struggle to find some sort of meaning in this particular Deanery event. Compared to the slow, quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the Deanery Bushwalk at Cunningham's Gap in September, or a prayer evening, the Sports Day was nearly the exact opposite. But after one of the busiest years in my life, like many others who have just finished Uni, grade twelve or perhaps the stress and burden of work for some, it was an opportunity for us to relive our primary school years again, even if it was just for one day. All the more so, since we were led by a primary school teacher who bossed everyone around and led the day brilliantly. I can t remember the last time I felt like a kid, but I m glad I was there for the activities and my brother and I are both looking forward to more in the future. Deanery Bushwalk September 2011 Story by Larry Huynh. Photos by Dave Nightingale. The bushwalk turned out to be much better than I first expected. Actually it was the first time I voluntarily went bushwalking and I found out I wasn t the only one. We had a big, diverse group. I was with people from my own Parish, people from within the Deanery and others I had the privilege to meet during World Youth Day in August. It was a Sunday morning and things started off rather slowly. We made a quick stop at a café in Aratula and then we were off to Mt Mitchell. When we got there we were still all introducing ourselves to each other. There were 25 of us and there were many new faces. After that we pretty much got stuck into the hiking. As we set off, the last comment from our guide, Greg Endicott, from the Brisbane Catholic Bushwalking Club was be careful of poisonous leaves and that it s tick

13 season. I felt a little less reassured at that point to say the least, but once we started walking and we got into the rhythm of it, it was actually quite nice. The view kept changing as we walked higher and higher. You lose track of time easily when you re up there. We spent four hours walking up and down that mountain, but it was a lot of fun. It was one of those rare occasions where you had the time and the space to genuinely talk to someone. I realised that had we been anywhere else, in a bar or a restaurant, things would have been very different. I met new people a couple of great guys from St Lucia who go to the same Uni as me and a lovely French student who offered me an apple. The walk also gave me the opportunity to catch up with old friends and talk about things we normally wouldn t talk about in any other setting (not even at WYD in Spain). There was a nice and relaxing atmosphere to the whole day. When we reached the top the feeling I had was indescribable. I know we hadn t climbed Everest, but nonetheless I still felt a small sense of achievement for an ordinary Sunday at Cunningham s Gap. I had the privilege of leading Grace at 4000 feet at the top of Mt Mitchell, something I ll always remember about that day. Also, careless as I am, I didn t bring any food with me and everyone offered me their own. In the end I had more food than any other person. I am very grateful for such generous people. Having lunch in front of one of the most impressive views in my lifetime made the experience worth it. On our way down we confronted steeper trails, snakes that blocked our path, and of course diminishing time. But in the end we made it back before the sun went down, even if it was a little later than planned. A few parted there, while most of us made one last stop in Aratula before we said goodbye. I sincerely hope I will see everyone in the future again. In hindsight everything about the day was so simple, but having the right occasion to talk to people as we made it up and down that mountain turned something simple into such a meaningful experience. It was definitely worth it. Our thanks to Greg Endicott of the Brisbane Catholic Bushwalking Club for guiding our walk for our Deanery Youth. Anyone interested in joining the club can visit Deanery World Youth Day Pilgrimage Madrid, Spain August 2011 Reflection by Kate Lambkin. I came away from World Youth Day feeling spiritually uplifted. Never before had I encountered God in so many different ways. I saw God in the people from Pedro Abad, who are so sincerely devoted to their faith and in turn, so lovingly welcomed us into their homes. I felt God when we celebrated Mass with 15,000 pilgrims who were all completely silent during the consecration. I felt the Spirit alive when complete strangers would yell out, Aussie, Aussie, Aussie from across the street, who exchanged gifts with us and who joyously danced with us on a train platform at 1.00am. God showed us that this was the universal church. Most significantly and somewhat surprisingly, I experienced God in the bonds of friendship I made with my fellow pilgrims and it wasn t those I met from overseas but with people who just live in the next suburb. It s these bonds of friendship which ended up being the most meaningful. Most of us had only recently met and we were all at different stages of our faith journey, but we were united by the same belief and by the same love for God. All the barriers were gone. While a lot of fun, World Youth Day was also physically tough at times. One of my most meaningful experiences from the trip came on the day that we were physically and

14 emotionally tested. We walked for almost five hours, in sweltering heat, heavy bags on our back in order to attend the final Mass. We arrived at the airfield to find several of the gates closed and thousands of pilgrims being turned away, us included. Shock and emotion set in as we made our way home; we struggled to comprehend that we had journeyed so far only to be denied the experience we had all been waiting for. Many of us resolved, that while we were disappointed, we could hopefully find reasoning in why we were turned away. The next morning, in a very intimate celebration of the Eucharist, back at our university accommodation, Bishop Joe made this reason clear to us. He told us that it s the desire in our hearts that Jesus acknowledges and loves. We wanted to be there and that s what counted. Looking back, I am so glad we did that walk. There were times in Spain when we didn t make it to events, or we got there and we couldn t see anything or understand what they were saying, but in the big scheme of things, that was ok. God loved that we tried and we were still blessed with an amazing experience. World Youth Day taught me that God really is everywhere, in the large and small things and most importantly, in the people you meet. It taught me that God wants us to have a go for Him, to struggle, to shout out and worship Him with all that we ve got. To go outside our comfort zone and to sometimes not always succeed, but be happy knowing that it s all for Him. Please see World Youth Day page under Youth tab for more WYD pictures WYD Pilgrim Retreat Deanery Youth Mass and Commissioning of Deanery WYD Pilgrims July 2011 Brisbane West Deanery is proud to part-sponsor 14 young adults from across the seven Parishes of the Deanery to answer Pope Benedict's invitation to attend World Youth Day in Madrid in August In addition to the 14 Deanery Sponsored Pilgrims, there are another 12 young adults travelling to WYD from Brisbane West Deanery with other Pilgrimage groups or independently. Please see the World Youth Day page for more info on our Pilgrims. WYD Pilgrims from Brisbane West Deanery gathered for a "Pilgrim Retreat" on Saturday July 30, at 'Shalom Place', Canossa Complex Oxley. The retreat, Directed by the Dean Fr Gerry Kalinowski, was a gentle and insightful afternoon of scripture, reflection and prayer, and each of the Pilgrims stated how glad they had been to take time out of their busy pre-pilgrimage schedule to be still, listen to God's word and prepare for WYD. At the conclusion of the Retreat, Fr Gerry blessed "Pilgrim Crosses" for each of the Pilgrims to wear to Madrid. The Crosses were made out of Olive Wood from the Holy Land! Following the Retreat, all present entered into a "Pilgrim Walk" from 'Shalom Place' Oxley to St Joseph's Church Corinda, to be present at the Brisbane West Deanery Youth Mass. Pilgrims were involved in the various Ministries of the Mass and a Young Adult Choir and Youth Orchestral Ensemble led the music ministry. The Tongan Choir added an 'international flavour" to the Mass and 16 Tongan Youth in traditional dress brought the gifts forward with Liturgical Movement at the Preparation of Gifts. At the conclusion of Mass, Fr Gerry and the community present Commissioned the Pilgrims to go forth on their Pilgrimage. Supper was shared by all after Mass. The Deanery is proud that 25 of our Young Adults will be attending World Youth Day in Madrid, along with 3000 other young Australians!

15 Deanery Adoration and Prayer Evening May 2011 th On Friday evening 27 May, 20 young adults from around the Deanery braved the cold and gathered at St Thomas Aquinas Church St Lucia for a night of Prayer and Adoration Father Gerry Kalinowski (Dean) led the celebration. The Evening Prayer of the Church was prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, followed by Scripture and a reflection given by Father Gerry. A period of Adoration followed, and the evening concluded with Benediction. It was a very prayerful, reflective gathering for all, as our young Parishioners entered into the Psalms, Scripture, and silent personal prayer, resting lovingly in the presence of Christ during the Eucharistic Adoration. After the experience of silent reflective prayer, the group then moved into the Parish Hall for some fellowship, laughter and loads of chocolate at a Chocolate Delight Supper!! Thanks to our devoted young people for their attendance. Deanery Youth Mass February 2011 On Sunday 13th February, St Ignatius Church at Toowong was packed to overflowing for the Brisbane West Deanery Youth Mass to commence Every Parish of the Deanery was represented in the large Choir and Music Group which was beautifully conducted by Anthony Young. Young ladies from Stuartholme School also contributed to the singing and participated in a Liturgical Movement at the Preparation of Gifts. Young people from each of the seven Parishes of Brisbane West were involved in the Entrance Procession and each of the Ministries at Mass. Thanks to our Celebrant, Fr Peter Quin SJ, and to all who attended, contributed and worshipped together. Supper was enjoyed after Mass and the fun continued with a Mini Trivia Night. Deanery Young Adults Trivia Night October 2010 On Friday 1st October 2010, 50 young adults gathered at St Ignatius Hall Toowong for a Deanery Trivia Night. There was plenty of fun, food and laughter as teams came up with answers for six rounds of questions covering all manner of topics. The winning team was from St Mark's Inala, with Darra Jindalee Parish taking second place, and another team from St Mark's in third place.

16 Deanery Youth Mass August 2010 On Sunday 22nd August 2010, 400 people gathered from across Brisbane West Deanery to celebrate the Deanery Youth Mass at the Church of the Twelve Apostles, Jindalee. Over 30 wonderful young people led the Music in the youth band and choir, and 16 young ladies were involved in a beautiful Liturgical Movement. The Tongan Community sang Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' as the Gospel Acclamation with younger members in traditional dress participating in the Gospel Procession. Young folk from every Parish were involved in all aspects of the Mass. 80 young ladies from Stuartholme School were also present. The Mass was concelebrated by Monsignor Tony Randazzo, Fr Dan Carroll and Fr Francis Onwunali. A large number of the Congregation enjoyed supper afterwards, which was followed by youth group and Young Adult activities. The evening finished with Benediction presided by Fr Dan Carroll.