A group of almost 30 teenagers attended the Bunbury diocese’s youth retreat held at Eaton Scout Camp from January 14 to 16.
The second annual summer camp run by the diocese was called ‘Big Life!’, a name linked to the retreat’s theme: “I have come so that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
Youth ministry coordinator for the Bunbury diocese, Fr Wayne Bendotti, said he was pleased with the enthusiasm of all the participants.
“We had quite a diverse group, from some who were quite actively involved in their faith to some who were less involved,” he said.
“I was impressed by the way the team was able to adapt to quite a bit of diversity”.
Fr Bendotti said the retreat was targeted at all levels of faith.
“At some ways it’s more of an outreach for people who are not as engaged in their faith,” he said.
“It’s about that primary gospel message of the possibility of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ”.
The group consisted of youth from various parts of the state, with one attendant travelling from Albany – four hours south-east of Bunbury.
Over two and a half days there were numerous talks and activities, including a multi-station team game which the group called “The Amazin’ Grace” in reference to the similarly named television show.
“We had a terrific games team that organised all these games and activities before each talk,” Fr Bendotti said.
“They had a lot of fun and in doing so they built up friendships with one another.”
The talks, given by a range of priests and lay people, addressed topics such as the challenges of living in today’s world, God’s plan for our lives, and how to live out that plan.
Fr Bendotti said the feedback he received from the participants was positive.
“The feedback was … that they enjoyed the talks and found the small groups engaging,” he said.
The diocese plans to hold similar summer camps for youth regularly in the future.