Report from ACYF 2019

St Ursula’s pilgrims attended the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) in Perth from Saturday 7 to Wednesday 11 December. They joined thousands of pilgrims from all over Australia, who gathered together to encounter Jesus and celebrate their faith.

The ACYF theme was “Listen to what the Spirit is saying” (Rev 2:7), which encouraged students to deepen their relationship with Jesus, be empowered to be disciples in the world today and encounter and celebrate being Catholic. Students had the opportunity to see the Church alive in every person and shared their ideas on how the Church can grow in today’s society. They were able to witness the passionate, energetic and youthful people of God that Jesus calls us to be. Below are some testimonies from our students who attended ACYF:

Laura Fing
Acting Youth Ministry Coordinator 

 

“My experience at ACYF was truly amazing. I met so many new people and experienced things I have never experienced before. It will definitely be something I won’t be forgetting any time soon. The combination of both traditional Catholic practices and modern Christian music throughout the morning and evening plenaries, as well as the closing mass and concert following it where most definitely highlights for me. Seeing so many young people gathering together to celebrate their faith was amazing. This festival is an experience I would highly recommend.”

Sienna Williams Year 10

 

“ACYF gave me the opportunity to express, deepen and grow my faith. I was able to see and develop many new friendships with people from all around the world who share the same beliefs as me. ACYF was also an opportunity to see other ways of expressing my faith. In song, prayer, talks and workshops, I was able to gain a better understanding of my faith. It was amazing and can’t wait for 2021!”

Elisha Cohen Year 10

 

“ACYF in Perth was a unique experience. It has plenty to offer, from music to a whole range of workshops from various speakers! Those who have gone to the festival in the past told me I would meet so many people – and they were right! ACYF was an experience full of many laughs and plenty of unforgettable memories. It was so great to be among friends old and new to celebrate my faith. It was beautiful to unite together as one. I have learnt many new things about myself and my faith. The morning and evening plenary were definitely the highlights of my experience, as well as meeting the performers. I’m ready to bring so much back to the school and wider community. I’m so glad I made the decision to go to ACYF and that’s why I recommend that any person (practicing Catholic or not) attend the next festival. You will have such a wonderful and unforgettable time!”

Constance Zouroudis Year 10

 

“The Australian Catholic Youth Festival was a great opportunity to gather and connect with the young church of Australia. Through participating in the various workshops, the vast range of live music and engaging in conversation with bishops from all over the country, we were all encouraged to be actively involved with like-minded youth, while passionately sharing our Catholic beliefs and creating a deeper bond to the core of our faith. Thank you for coming along with us to create all these lifelong memories!”

Madison Merlino Year 11