Fellow delegate Sean Reid adds his review of the National Youth Event:

The first that struck me about Gartmore House was its remoteness – perfect for peaceful reflection on the theme of this year’s event, Finding Life’s Purpose.

On Friday evening we heard from Fr Alex Davie about his journey to priesthood, recalling some of the challenges he encountered discerning that path and the challenges he’s experienced since becoming a priest.  More than that, he explained how he had found his way through them.

After Fr Alex’s talk we had the hotly-contested quiz, in which I am happy to announce the diocesan team “Super Mario Brothers” (and sister!) came a respectable joint second.  After the boisterous atmosphere of the quiz we moved to a time of quiet adoration and Night Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.

After a comfortable and peaceful night’s sleep, and Morning Prayer, we gathered to welcome the vocations panel.  This comprised six Catholics from different walks of life, ranging from priests, deacons, and teachers to those who represent the Church in political life.  Questions and answers followed.  Then Cardinal O’Brien delivered his keynote address entitled “Finding Life’s Purpose: being a young Catholic in 21st Century Scotland”.

We split into groups to consider and respond to what we had heard.  Firstly, an Emmaus walk with another delegate to get to know their faith story a little better, then larger groups to construct an image of a young Catholic in 21st Century Scotland and present this to whole group.

To end the National Youth Event, Cardinal O’Brien presided at Mass which included music prepared by a number of delegates.

Overall I found this event to be extremely beneficial on a spiritual level.  I also enjoyed having the opportunity to share with other young Catholics and to hear about their experiences.

 


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