1998

10th August 1998
Invitation to Newcastle, Hunter and Manning Youth
Adopting the theme "CELEBRATE YOUR SPIRIT" young people of the Newcastle, Hunter and Manning areas are invited to a day of fun on Sunday August 30.

An initiative of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle's Commission for Youth, the day is an opportunity for young people between the ages of 12 and 25 to come together to celebrate their gifts, abilities and lives in a safe and enjoyable environment.

The program includes two guest speakers in the morning, a range of workshops in the afternoon and a liturgical celebration to draw the day together.

Guest speakers will be Bishop Michael Malone, Catholic Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle and Ms Catherine Mahony, a young Newcastle woman with a deep interest in spirituality. Both Bishop Michael and Catherine will share something of themselves, and in particular, the ways in which they celebrate their spirit.

An open forum question time will follow as well as an opportunity for those present to discuss some of the results of the Australian Catholic Bishops' Consultation with Young People - called "Young People and the Future". The specific area to be discussed from the Bishops' consultation will be self-esteem in relation to young people.

During the afternoon people from our region will share a little of their wisdom and skills in their particular field through a range of creative and practical workshops.

To close the day's activities a Diocesan Mass will be held at 4pm. This liturgical celebration, to be presided by Bishop Michael Malone, will draw together young people, their families and friends from the Newcastle, Hunter and Manning areas.

According to Stefanie Jansson, Catholic Diocesan Youth Ministry Co-ordinator: "As an advocate for young people in the church I am very aware of the need for young people to have the opportunity to express themselves in positive and encouraging environments. Unfortunately society can often have a rather dim view of young people and this day is an opportunity for young people to show others how they can have fun, learn and grow in a Christian, satisfying and different way."

Venue: St Mary's Campus All Saints College Maitland
Time: 10.30am to 5pm
Cost: $15 and includes guest speakers, lunch and workshops

The Diocesan Commission for Youth was established in July 1995. It is a group of people who have been commissioned at a diocesan level by Bishop Michael Malone for ministry with youth and young adults.

The Commission aims to listen to the needs of young people in the Church and wider community, to advocate on their behalf; and to provide opportunities for young people to grow, learn and be empowered.

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