On Monday 26th May, our Year 11 Youth Ministry Leaders took part in a collaborative formation day with Youth Ministry Leaders from St Francis. Building on the energy and shared vision of Term 1’s Cluster Day, the students gathered once again—this time with a powerful focus on co-creating a Diocesan Prayer for 2025.

Guided by the Jubilee Year theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” students reflected on the importance of unity and a broader shared identity across our Catholic schools. Throughout the day, they explored how the values of our school patrons are brought to life in our communities, and how we are each called to notice and respond to God in the everyday moments of our lives.

Melina, one of our Year 11 Youth Ministry Leaders, shared her reflection on the experience:

“Our journey to the Emmaus Centre in Campbeltown with the youth ministry leaders from Saint Francis was a grace-filled time of prayer, reflection, and collaboration. Surrounded by the quiet beauty of the space, we came together as pilgrims of hope, seeking to listen to the Spirit and discern how we can serve the young Church in our diocese.

Working together to create a diocesan prayer was a truly moving experience. Each voice contributed something unique, and together we shaped words that reflect our shared faith, our love for our communities, and our desire to walk with young people in hope and trust. It reminded us that we are not alone in this mission, the Spirit is alive among us.

As we return to our schools, we carry not only the prayer we created but also a renewed sense of unity and purpose. Our time at Emmaus strengthened our commitment to journey with young people as companions and witnesses, pilgrims of hope, in a Church that is alive, listening, and growing.”

Another one of our Year 11 Youth Ministry Leader, Sienna, also reflected on the day:

“It was a meaningful day of reflection, collaboration and spiritual growth. Through prayer, discussion and creative workshops, we came together to explore what prayer means to us and the many forms it can take. Inspired by our shared call to be pilgrims of hope, we achieved our aim of working as one to create a unified Diocesan Prayer for 2025. A prayer that reflects our collective faith, hope and vision for the future. Thank you to Ms Neasy for this opportunity.”

The day was rich with moments of reflection, gratitude, and guidance, offering students the opportunity to pause, pray, and consider the hopes and challenges of their own faith journey. The experience culminated in the creation of prayerful contributions that will shape the Diocesan Prayer an invitation to walk forward with courage, faith, and purpose.

We thank our Youth Ministry Leaders who have returned inspired and ready to enrich the prayer life of our school, bringing with them renewed energy and fruitful insights for the journey ahead.