“Be Grow Show” is an annual retreat led by the Diocesan Council for Ministry with Young People.

There was a sense of community and prayer as the theme for World Youth Day 2017 − Luke 1:49 ‘for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name’ − was unpacked.

The main focus was looking at who Mary was, and how her ‘Yes’ can still inspire us today. Forster Tuncurry Parish Priest, Fr Greg Barker, and Assistant Principal, St Paul’s Primary School, Rutherford, Sue Lacey, began the retreat discussing what we know about Mary. This led everyone to reflect on our views of Mary, and the challenges that arise when we think of her life and her ‘Yes’ to God.

We learnt about and practised Christian Meditation, thanks to Anne Cuskelly from the Living Waters Meditation Centre at The Junction.

Education Officer - Spirituality and Faith Formation, Catholic Schools Office, Bernadette Gibson, helped to unpack the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, written by indigenous artist Richard Campbell.

One highlight was Mass and supper with the Parish of Foster Tuncurry on Saturday night. We felt very welcome, and the parish put on a feast for us.

This year was also the first time “Be Grow Show” offered babysitting!

Thank you to all of the presenters, team and participants who made the weekend a success.

Follow mnnews.today on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.