Young Catholics powering up
Local
In a vibrant celebration of faith, creativity and community, more than 220 young people gathered at Sacred Heart College this month for PowerUp 2025.
Hosted by the Catholic Office for Youth and Young Adults (COYAA) on August 2, the event was part of the Diocesan Jubilee of Youth celebrations and included a variety of workshops, worship and fellowship.
The afternoon featured seven workshops, each designed to inspire and deepen participants’ spiritual journeys.
From crafting beeswax wraps in the ecology-focused ‘Bee the Change’, to exploring Scripture in ‘Rooted in the Word’, attendees were invited to encounter faith in fresh and meaningful ways.
Other standout sessions included ‘Faith Imposter Syndrome’, a thought-provoking deep dive and question and answer session led by Vicar General Fr Dean Marin and ‘Prayer Bead Crafting’ which offered a tactile and creative approach to prayer.
Those who enjoy music were invited to explore Christian playlists across genres in ‘More than Music’ with Wildfire while ‘Watering my Spirit’ provided space for personal reflection.
The final workshop, ‘Messages of Hope’, unpacked the themes of the Jubilee Year, encouraging young people to carry the message forward in their communities. All participants were able to attend three workshops throughout the afternoon.
After the workshops, participants gathered for a Vigil Mass in the Sacred Heart Chapel, followed by a high-energy praise and worship concert led by Proclaim Wildfire, a youth ministry band from the Lismore Diocese in NSW.
COYYA coordinator Julian Nguyen said their presence as special guests added a powerful musical and spiritual dimension to the day, with the group also giving a workshop earlier in the afternoon.
“Throughout the evening, the atmosphere remained warm and welcoming despite the cold temperatures, with hot food and hot doughnuts served to keep spirits high and stomachs full,” he said.
“PowerUp 2025 was a testament to the vitality of youth ministry in Adelaide, made possible by the dedication of countless volunteers, presenters and the COYYA team.
“As the Diocese continues its Jubilee celebrations, events like this remind us of the energy and hope that young people bring to the Church.”
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