Youth Ministry News - October 2009

News for Young People in the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong Greetings!  We are at the juncture of the year where some of us are relaxing on white sandy beaches enjoying holidays, whilst others are spending every waking moment studying for upcoming exams, and many of us are simply maintaining the status quo.  Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, I pray that you know that our God is right there with you! If you do have some time to squeeze in something more there is plenty to choose from.  From conversations and conferences to celebrations and chit-chat, there is something for everyone.  Check out all the upcoming events listed below. Also, can I encourage you to check out this year's Social Justice Statement from the Australian Catholic Bishops – it's about you!  "And You Will Be My Witnesses: Young People and Justice" reflects back on the challenge Pope Benedict left to us all at the conclusion of World Youth Day 08 – "What will you leave to the next generation?  What difference will you make?" The Statement and associated resources can be downloaded at www.socialjustice.catholic.org.au If you would like any further information or if you think I can help out in any way please do not hesitate to contact me on 4253 0809 or email youth@dow.org.au. Peace, Loretta OCTOBER 2009 JESUS ALL ABOUT LIFE Why Jesus?  Why the Church?  Join the Conversation. Evenings include music, supper and discussion – 7:30pm-9:00pm Tuesday 20 – All Saints Parish, Cnr Bradman & King St, Warilla Thursday 22 – Ss Peter & Paul Parish, 94 Manning St, Kiama Tuesday 27 -  St John the Evangelist Parish, Cordeaux St, Campbelltown Thursday 29 – Mary Mother of the Church Parish, 58 Edgar St, Macquarie Fields 23-25 Oct You Were Born For This - Young Men Rise Up National Conference The 2009 Conference will feature dynamic talks, brotherhood, vibrant music and moving ministry sessions.  Speakers include Archbishop Mark Coleridge, Fr Chris Ryan, Jonathan & Karen Doyle, Paul Osborne, Byron Pirola, Jared Crouch and Fr Ken Barker. Registrations are open to men aged 16-35 years Collaroy Centre, Collaroy $170 (inclusive of meals and accommodation) More details at www.ymgmovement.org Friday 29 Youth Mission Team Wollongong ETERNAL CHANGE BALL 2009 7pm-Midnight @WIN Stadium, Home of the St George Dragons Cnr of Crown & Harbour Streets, Wollongong Dress: Formal Tickets: $75 (Includes 3 course fine dining experience + Pre dinner drinks + 11 piece jazz band "Pockets Full of Soul" + Special guest MC Jason Stevens + Live Auction + Giveaways) Call Cath on 0431 259 389 100% proceeds to Youth Mission Team Wollongong NOVEMBER 2009 Wednesday 4 St Luke: Come to the Table Year of St Luke National E-Conference Presenters: Archbishop Mark Coleridge & Dr Elizabeth Dowling RSM Hook into this great faith formation opportunity via your own computer! Details: Virginia Ryan, 9847 0556 or vryan@bbi.catholic.edu.au Friday 6 and 13 Sam Clear Speaking Tour 7pm – 9pm St Mary's Star of the Sea, 15 Harbour Street, Wollongong This young Australian missionary walked 15,500km on foot from Brazil to Canada and from Moscow to Spain, inviting Christians the world over to pray for one another, and for the complete unity of the church in truth and in love. Threatened at gun-point, held at knife-point, beaten up, arrested, hospitalised and encounters with dangerous animals, come and watch the footage, view the photos and listen to the story of this epic journey as it unfolded and how God provided in the most astounding ways. An incredible 90min seminar that both inspires and challenges. Details: Kristen on 02 4284 6600. A $5 donation is recommended to cover costs. To view the original weekly blogs as the walk unfolded go to www.ymt.com.au/walk4one Saturday 14 A Woman for all Seasons 9am-3pm $20 (please do not let financial constraints deter your attendance) Featuring a keynote address by Sr Robyn Reynolds olsh, a panel of women speakers and a variety of fantastic workshops, this is an opportunity to dialogue about issues for women in the Church today through a creative exploration of the theme. Details: http://dow.org.au/news/a-woman-for-all-seasons RSVP: Jane Edwards 4253 0899 or jane.edwards@woll.catholic.org.au DECEMBER 2009 3-6 iWitness 2009 iWitness is a Conference for young adults aged 16-30 who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and having a good time.  There will be opportunities to take part in the Sacraments, pray, discuss and ask questions.  Speakers include Cardinal Pell, Bishop Anthony Fisher OP, Hayden Ramsay, Jonathan Doyle, Sr Mary Madeline OP, Fr Anthony Percy & Anna Krohn. Details: www.lifetothefull.com.au or email iwitness2009@gmail.com Saturday 12 St Vincent de Paul Buddies Day A day of fun for kids who need a break!  Volunteer and make a difference. Training will be undertaken in November. Details: Jeannine Ashton – 4627 9013 or email jeannine@svdpwgong.org.au