With the theme ‘Come Holy Spirit’ at the heart of occasion, over 150 young people from across Perth last week gathered for the third Ignite Live, held at Chisholm Catholic College in Bedford.
The event was a special occasion and encouragement for the youth who attended to reflect on the feast of Pentecost.
Coordinator of Ignite Youth Perth, Ronan McGinnis said that while the Ignite Youth team are passionate about providing deeply spiritual experiences for young people, they also want to make sure every event includes numerous elements that are lively, humorous, engaging and interactive.
“Director of 24:7 Youth Ministry and keynote speaker for the night, Mario Borg, delivered a dynamic presentation using a variety of props and stories,” Mr McGinnis said.
“In addition to the music and speakers on the main stage, the two-hour event also included games, activities, videos and an extended time for prayer, including an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation,” he said.
Mr McGinnis continued by telling The eRecord that comments from youth who attended the event noted the event as one of encouragement and inspiration.
For 17-year old Caitlin McKenzie, the event allowed her to meet people who have begun their religious journey after being inspired by a significant moment in their life.
“From listening to these stories, I’m looking forward to my own epiphany that will give me direction in my life,” she said.
14-year-old John Topliss said that he enjoyed Ignite Youth as it was an energetic and vibrant experience that also allowed time for reflection.
Mr McGinnis also noted that one of the special performances of the night was singer-songwriter Emma Fradd from Brisbane, who performed two of her original songs.
“We are fortunate that Emma could be part of Ignite Live; she is incredibly talented and the contemporary edge to both her music and personality is exactly what we want to showcase at Ignite Live,” he added.
The Ignite Youth team comprises of dozens of volunteers who are each part of various school, parish and community groups in the Perth Archdiocese.
“Ignite Live is designed to be a partnership,” Mr McGinnis said.
“A night like tonight is successful because of people like Mario Borg contributing his time, Chisholm College making their facilities available and various school and parish groups embracing the event as part of their own evangelisation program,” he added.
The Ignite Youth team will be involved in contributing to the Veritas Youth Festival being held from 30 June to 2 July at Notre Dame University in Fremantle.
For more information about Veritas visit www.veritasperth.com