The Invocation Festival is a unique event in the life of the Catholic Church in England. For those of you who are not familiar with the festival, it is aimed at ordinary Catholics, men and women (aged 16-35), who are looking to develop their relationship with Christ and who are searching for the knowledge and tools to develop their own personal formation, discernment and understanding of God’s will for their lives. For some this may mean being, or becoming open to the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood or religious life.
Invocation provides Fellowship, Catechesis, Confession and Adoration with time for prayer, quiet reflection, and discernment through keynote speakers, interactive workshops, life- changing services and, above all, space to encounter the Lord. In a relaxed setting, the participants often inspire each other and meet with priests and religious who provide a joyful witness to their lives and vocation.
Invocation is about the young people who come. It is about listening to their needs and responding to them. It is an opportunity to meet with others hungry to deepen their faith and discover that “definite service” for which God has created each one of us. Great speakers will enthuse and, hopefully, amuse. The seminary community will welcome all into its pattern of prayer. And this year we will all have a chance to reflect on the importance of priestly ministry in our lives because the precious relic of the heart of St John Vianney, the holy Curé of Ars, will be with us for part of the festival.
Now in its third year, the festival will once again be held in the grounds of St. Mary’s College, Oscott, Birmingham, from Friday 6 July – Sunday 8 July 2012. For more information about Invocation 2012 visit www.invocation.org.uk.
We are planning to organise a coach from London to/from the festival. For more info and to book a place on the coach, please contact Fr Richard at richardnesbitt@rcdow.org.uk
