In the busyness and chaos of the year, often it’s difficult to find time for personal prayer and joyful fellowship. On June 27, young adults from across the Diocese of Parramatta and beyond gathered for the annual Catholic Youth Parramatta weekend–long LIFTED Retreat.
With the theme of Metanoia – meaning “conversion of heart” – the retreat offered a sacred space for renewal and deeper communion with God and one another, where participants engaged in prayer, sacraments, reflection and fellowship.
The retreat, which was held at The Collaroy Centre, in Collaroy, included inspiring talks by Rachael Kama and Donnie Velasco from the Diocese’s Mission Enhancement Team. Each speaker explored the meaning of metanoia and emphasised the importance of listening and surrender in our daily faith journey. Participants also heard about the call to conversion from Fr Percival Sevare OSA, an Augustinian from Holy Spirit Parish, St Clair, and the Immaculata Sisters, Sr Mary Emmanuel and Sr Celine Marie.
Donnie Velasco, from MET, was one of the speakers at the retreat. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
A key element of the LIFTED Retreat was the use of small groups, which allowed participants to reflect on and unpack the sessions together throughout the weekend.
“All the speakers were so good,” one participant said. “What I enjoyed most were the spiritual conversations with individuals through the talks – the Spirit was definitely moving and stirring.”
On Saturday evening, Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation were offered by Fr Kevin Redmond SM from St Andrew the Apostle Parish, Marayong, Fr Tom Green from St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Parramatta, Fr Andrew Rooney from Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown, and Fr Marcus Hazelman from Sacred Heart Parish, Mt Druitt South. This special time of prayer was accompanied by music from the LIFTED Band.
The LIFTED Band featured talented musicians from across the Diocese who are passionate about leading others in worship. Claudia Bautista and Christopher Solo from The Good Shepherd Parish, Plumpton, Oscar Degollacion from Mary, Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown, Claire Brown from St Finbar’s Parish, Glenbrook, and Olivia Tan from St Andrew’s College, Marayong, committed to several practice sessions in preparation for the retreat.
The LIFTED band was popular with all the participants. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
“I hadn’t been to confession since my First Communion preparation,” said one young adult. “The retreat gave me the strength, encouragement and spiritual clarity to finally do so. I feel deeply blessed and renewed because of it.”
Another participant said: “There have been many significant moments where our Lord has touched my heart in profound ways, in ways I could’ve never imagined.”
The night concluded with song and praise, as the LIFTED Band led the group in joyful celebration of the experience of prayer and community.
On Sunday, Fr Saldie Resolado OSA celebrated Mass and offered words of encouragement in his homily, reflecting on the witness of God’s love through our communion with one another.
Group discussion was a big part of the retreat. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
The Holy Spirit was palpably present throughout the retreat.
One participant said: “This retreat helped me realise that my insecurities about my knowledge of the Catholic faith had held me back from experiencing the fullness of God’s love. The sincere discussions, prayer and community allowed me to process and acknowledge these with grace and without judgment.”
Participants expressed deep appreciation for the leadership of Catholic Youth Parramatta and their ministry of presence and accompaniment.
The retreat allowed participants to deepen their connection with their faith. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
“The CYP leaders were very approachable and welcoming,” one participant noted. “It meant a lot that they didn’t just lead from a distance but genuinely engaged with us – through meaningful conversations, joining in games, or simply being present.”
As the retreat concluded, many left with hearts lifted and renewed.
“I came home feeling lifted – a little bit scared, but hopeful. Moving forward with Christ, I’m ready.”
The LIFTED Retreat is an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Mission, Prayer and Formation.
To see more images from the retreat, go to the Diocese of Parramatta Flickr page.
