Young Adults in the West will make a comeback at St James' parish in Twickenham on Saturday 22 March. Diocesan Youth Chaplain Fr David Reilly explains: “Now that we have finished the You Believe talks in the Year of Faith we want to bring something different to our parishes. We’re at the beginning of a New Evangelisation and what better way to start than by gathering young adults of our Diocese together, to share faith and prepare ourselves for that mission.”
Young Adults in the West was started by Bishop Alan Hopes, former Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster. This popular event had been hosted across an area that stretched from Kensington, Hammersmith and Chiswick, to Hillingdon, Feltham and Hounslow.
Fr Chris Vipers, who has pastoral responsibility for the programme, is excited about the work that lies ahead: “We want to explore and celebrate just what our faith means to us, what it means to be a young Catholic in London and how we can rise to the challenge from Pope Francis to be missionary disciples.”
The event includes the celebration of Mass in the host parish, followed by food, socialising and faith-sharing. There are opportunities to meet other young Catholics informally and also to give a witness or feel encouraged by others. Fr David says: “So many people have found it really positive having a joyful and relaxed opportunity to meet others, to chat and share their experiences, and to make new friends in a faith-filled environment.”
Fr Chris sees this ministry as central to his new role: “Exciting things are happening in Twickenham, both at St James' parish and at St Mary's College just around the corner. There are some really enthusiastic young people there, and this event has the potential to take that enthusiasm to a new level. We’re really keen to do anything we can to encourage our young adults.”
Young Adults in the West will take place at St James’s Church, Twickenham, on Saturday 22 March beginning with Mass at 6.00pm. All 16-35 year olds are welcome and no registration is required. For more details please contact Fr David on davidreilly@rcdow.org.uk
