As 2026 unfolds, gratitude fills our hearts for the young people who continue to shape and inspire the Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Guided by Catholic Youth Parramatta’s renewed Mission Plan, young people across the Diocese have stepped forward with generosity and faith, offering their time, talents and stories in ways that reveal a community growing in leadership, deepening in accompaniment, and encountering Jesus in personal and powerful ways.
Inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s reminder that “life shines brightly… when we discover within ourselves the truth that we are called by God, have a vocation, have a mission,” we have seen this truth reflected in the intentional witness of young people throughout our Diocese. Their commitment to God’s love has been evident in pastoral care, formation, training and the many gatherings that have brought youth and young adults together.
Young people at the LIFTED Live in the Forecourt 2024. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
This spirit was especially alive during the Diocesan Youth Leaders Weekend, which welcomed current and emerging leaders from 17 parishes. Guest speakers Rachel Kama and Christian Nobleza unpacked themes of mission, leadership and community, which resonated deeply with participants. Shared meals, meaningful conversations and moments of profound prayer were among the weekend’s highlights. The fruits of this gathering continue to grow through parish‑based workshops and accompaniment, including recent formation with new leaders at Holy Spirit, St Clair, and St John XXIII, Stanhope Gardens.
The same energy flowed into LIFTED Launch at Holy Family, Emerton, a night that felt like a homecoming. Stories of faith marked by vulnerability and connection were shared, supported by music that lifted hearts and strengthened the sense of belonging.
Young people in prayer and worship during the LIFTED Retreat for people aged 16-17 at the Shrine of Holy Innocents, Kellyville. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
Our partnership with Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese has continued to create rich opportunities for students to encounter faith and community. More than 4,439 students have taken part in programs such as LIFTED Leaders, LIFTED Junior, Rise, Unleashed programs, alongside Encounter, a Catholic Schools initiative supported by the Catholic Youth Parramatta Team. A highlight for many during LIFTED Week was meeting singer‑songwriter Louisa Daniels. Alongside these major gatherings, our youth ministry workshops in schools have provided meaningful, small‑group spaces for students to explore faith, leadership, and service. Ongoing collaborations with the CSPD Mission Team across multiple schools have enabled us to walk closely with students as they grow in both leadership and discipleship.
Good Friday Night Walk was another profound moment, with more than 1,300 young people journeying through the night in a powerful expression of communal faith. We remain grateful for the dedication of Sebastian Duhau, whose contributions continue to bless our community.
Participants at the ‘At The Well’ gathering. Image: Gelina Montierro/ Diocese of Parramatta
LIFTED Sports Day brought a different kind of joy, with 16 teams and the addition of Oztag creating a vibrant celebration of friendship and community.
In Women’s Ministry, the relaunch of the At the Well Podcast, now co‑hosted by Joy Adan and Hannah Griffin, has renewed a space for women to reflect and grow. Being in this space where Catholic women from various walks of life are able to share their stories and experiences has been incredibly insightful and revealed the undeniable presence of God and his immense love for us all. The recent At the Well Gathering continued this momentum, highlighting the strength and creativity women bring to the Church.
Participants of the 2026 LIFTED Sports Day hosted by Catholic Youth Parramatta. Image: Anna Amos/ three two one/ Diocese of Parramatta
This year has once again demonstrated the profound hope and witness young people bring when offering the gift of their lives so courageously and generously. You Inspire us, challenge us and fill us with hope for what God is unfolding in our Diocese.
As we look ahead to LIFTED Retreats, Deanery Gatherings, and the journey toward World Youth Day 2027 Seoul, we trust in a God who is endlessly faithful and a community who continues to accompany one another with courage and hope.
Connect with us today! Find us on social media at @catholicyouthparramatta
This article was originally published in the 2026 June | Winter edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read it online here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
