Young people across the Diocese gathered for retreat day

_{Source: Diocese of Nottingham}

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An estimated 90 young Catholics flocked to the Briars Retreat Centre, in Matlock, on March 22^nd to enjoy a day retreat with Mass, Confession, fellowship and food.

The retreat house, nestled in the Diocese of Nottingham, has long been a prayerful refuge for young people across the country and on this occasion, participants were led in prayer and discernment by Youth 2000.

The highlights of the day included Mass celebrated by Bishop Patrick McKinney of Nottingham, and talks from keynote speakers William Cruddace and Lucy Treloar.

Throughout the day, participants focused on the theme of hope in keeping with the Jubilee Year, and meditated on the following passage from the Book of Hebrews:

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”

Following the morning talk there was time for discussion, questions and answers and praying the Rosary, in keeping with Youth 2000’s long standing devotion to Our Lady.

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Following Mass with Bishop Patrick, everyone came together for a jacket potato lunch! The men and women were then separated for an hour of fellowship and reflection in their respective groups, before coming back together for a Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament.

Following dinner, Lucy Treloar gave her keynote address on the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which was then followed by a Eucharistic healing service.

Reflecting on the day, Lucy said: “The Nottingham Youth 2000 retreat was a day filled with faith and young people. In my small group, everyone was there was the first time which I felt was a real sign of hope in the Church. It felt like a real day of community. It is clear that the Lord is working through Youth 2000 and, in particular, their foundations of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady.

“A highlight for me was the healing service and evening of praise. To see young people face to face with Jesus was so beautiful and afterwards everyone facing the Blessed Sacrament and praising God. It was a joy to take part in the Nottingham retreat and I can’t wait to see how the Lord will work next! The Church is alive!”

SAVE THE DATE:  The next Young Adults retreat day will take place in Leicestershire, on July 5 and will be led by the Cor et Lumen Christi Community. Look out for more details soon.