As we begin the season of Advent, some of our Groups are using the time to support their parishes and develop their own leadership skills and confidence in organising events.
Joseph Cardijn placed a strong emphasis on young people engaging in Parish life, saying: “You don't find leaders—you form them. I am convinced that this first leader can be found in every parish in the world."
In Sandbach, the IMPACT! group decided to host Ecumenical Vespers for the first Sunday in Advent, making the parishioners feel welcome and encourage them to make time for prayer in the run up to Christmas.
As part of the day, the young leaders also helped with the catering and worked together to bake a number of mince pies. It was a learning experience!
They also took part in the readings and prayers in church, which was a helpful way to get them involved and build upon their confidence in speaking in public and at Mass.
Fr John Marsland, National Chaplain of the YCW in England and Wales, said: “This is an excellent way of developing the young people into more confident leaders, who realise the benefits of working together to help others. It also connects their actions with a greater understanding of our shared faith, where so many find the inspiration to be the difference in their local areas.”
