From the Director of Mission, Phil Davis
Background
On 3-5 December, 2015 over 3,000 young people from across Australia participated in the 2nd Australian Catholic Youth Festival in Adelaide. The feedback from these students and teachers was overwhelmingly positive with many commenting on the quality of the program and venue as well as the inspirational spirit of the festival with young people from across Australia gathering to explore and celebrate their faith. For more information go to https://youthfestival.catholic.org.au/
The festival is an initiative of the Australian Catholic Council of Bishops (ACBC) that began in Melbourne in 2013 as an attempt to offer a “mini World Youth Day” experience in Australia every two years. Bishops and priests from across Australia have attended in significant numbers.
Sydney 2017
In 2017 it is coming to Sydney and we seek the support of all Sydney Catholic School Communities to embrace the festival as a wonderful opportunity for evangelisation and formation for students and staff. This event is a major priority of Archbishop Anthony Fisher and he is extremely keen for a large number of Sydney Catholic Schools students and teachers to attend.
The following is a basic outline of key information relating to the festival:
When?
The festival will take place on Thursday 7 December, Friday 8 December and Saturday 9 December (approximately 9am – 9pm each day.)
Where?
It will based at the Olympic Park and Showground facilities in Homebush and the final mass is planned to be held in the Domain.
Who is invited to attend?
Young teachers and staff of Sydney Catholic Schools as staff pilgrims
Students from Year 9, 10 and 11 with accompanying teachers for supervision.
Staff, parents and students will also be invited to serve as volunteers.
Cost?
Registration for the three-day festival will be approximately $250 per person. Day registrations will also be available for approximately $100 per person.
Who is organizing the Festival?
The ACBC Office for Youth will coordinate the planning and running of the festival. Sydney Catholic Schools staff will be supporting them.
For more information please contact:
Mark Smith, Archdiocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator, Sydney Catholic Schools
