On Friday 15th May 2026 at 7.00pm we gathered in our parish hall not only to play games and share meals. We also lived out something Mary understood perfectly; “that hearts connect before words do.” Before Jesus ever said a word, she was the first to look him in the eye, to touch his fragile body, to hear his little voice, and to perceive him with a mother’s heart. It is like knowing what your friend wants from their one-word text response, even though they said, ‘I’m fine’, you know they are not.
Mary: An Open and Giving Heart
Br. Andre anchored the meeting with a reflection that takes us to Mary’s heart. The Immaculate Heart of Mary manifests what true human openness and receptivity to God looks like, while the Sacred Heart of Jesus reveals God’s own self-emptying love, becoming like us in all things but sin (Heb 4:15). It is an exchange of continuous giving and receiving. In Mary we see a heart that receives completely; in Jesus we see a heart that gives completely.
Br. Andre shared with us the story of his own mother’s openness and generosity even when she had almost nothing left. This story helps us to connect to our own reality, to turn in confidence to Mary, Mother of God and to Mother of all humanity. Through her, we learn how to trust, how to give, and how to remain open to God’s will.
A Hidden Foundation, A New Beginning
In union with the parish community, and as we begin our parish novena to Mary Help of Christians and to the Holy Spirit, we were blessed to hold this first gathering for the Year 11-13 teenagers. Those who put their trust in the Lord shall not be shaken (Psalm 125:1). That promise of security in God underpinned our evening together; a strong foundation, a new beginning.
Faith, Friendship and Fun
Our faith is that which builds community through friendship, trust and cheerfulness. We promise not to make you sit in a circle and share feelings for two hours. We actually had a relaxed two-hour gathering, which began with an ice breaker and 20-minute input at 7.00pm in the parish hall. If you are wondering whether there was food – this is a Catholic youth event, Jesus fed thousands with loaves and fish. We had no fish nor bread but pizzas and drinks, pool table, tennis table and indoor badminton, hopefully they can suffice. The day ended in a characteristically Salesian way: with a Hail Mary, in honour of Our Lady and in keeping with our tradition during the Marian month. This humble beginning reminds us that Mary walks with us in our ordinary moments.
An Invitation, “come and see”
Being young is being adventurous, curious and always seeking answers. We promise a safe space for this search and a good listening ear. Be a part of this journey of seeking God in a simple, joyful and down-to-earth way.
Upcoming meetings
No need to bring anything except yourself and maybe an appetite. Though if you are like me, your appetite is probably permanently set to ‘bottomless pit’ anyway.
Year 7-10: 5th June, 7pm, parish hall
Year 11-13: 19th June, 7pm, parish hall
Same venue, same time and the same open-hearted welcome.
Br Malachy
