Recently, I was given the blessing of bringing four students to the Youth Ministry Equipping School (YMES) in Canberra. Over 200 young people gathered from across New South Wales, Victoria, and even as far as New Zealand. The focus of YMES was to develop skills in Youth Ministry, including leadership, facilitating games, drama, and deepening faith.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse spoke passionately about how being Catholic or Christian should not be reduced to “functional Christianity”, where people simply tick boxes—attending Mass or a Worship Service on Sunday. Rather, everything we do as Christians should activate our original Baptismal call. We are not merely following Jesus as a historical figure; instead, Jesus comes to life in what we do in our own time. We are called to embody Jesus in our identity and actions, in many different ways.
The Power of Charism
Everything starts with charism. The word charism refers to a gift given by God to each one of us. The Holy Spirit bestows gifts upon each person, even before baptism. The sacraments, particularly Baptism, help to activate and deepen these gifts, making them come alive in us.
However, our school curriculum and academic learning alone cannot activate charism. While Religious Education provides time and priority for content, it is not the same as formation in the Spirit. We must 'catch the wave' of our faith through passionate people—people whose charisms are alive in their lives, ignited by the Holy Spirit.
A Church That Spreads the Good News
We are called to spread the Good News—to share the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. A Church that focuses only on morals or doctrines misses the mark. The Good News is that we, too, can experience a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. This is the “ardor” or spirit that must be made new—through new expressions, new strategies, and new methods in our time.
Like the shape of the cross, our faith must have both a vertical connection with God and a horizontal connection with others. Yet, many today have grown lukewarm in their faith. Some were baptized as babies but have since fallen away. The New Evangelization must be Christ-centered, engaging people where they are. Evangelization is a lifelong process, like a spiral that deepens our relationship with both God and others.
We cannot force evangelization; rather, it must be invitational, woven into every dimension of our faith:
Praying together as a community
Giving witness to our faith, through both joys and struggles
Living sacramentally, with deep physical encounters with Jesus
Being outward-focused, reaching out to the poor and marginalized
A Renewed Focus on the Holy Spirit
The YMES conference ended with a renewed focus on the Holy Spirit. Throughout history, God raises up saints to transform the world—and He does so through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Like the wind in creation and the wind at Pentecost, God stirs things up. He disturbs us, so that we may act. When the Holy Spirit moves, fruits emerge—peace, joy, kindness, self-control, and more.
The Youth Ministry Equipping School reminded us of the vital role of Youth Ministry. At a time when so many people have drifted from their faith, young people have the power to bring faith alive in fun, creative, and practical ways.
We met many incredible people and formed lifelong friendships. As we return—both as students and teachers—we do so with a renewed sense of discipleship. We are called to go boldly into the world and proclaim:
“Jesus Christ loves you. Not some of you. All of you. Will you love too?”
Journal and reflect on the following -
Activating Our Faith – Archbishop Christopher Prowse spoke about moving beyond “functional Christianity” to truly live out our Baptismal call. How can you make your faith more active and personal in your daily life?
Recognizing Your Charism – The Holy Spirit gives each person unique gifts. What charisms or spiritual gifts do you recognize in yourself? How might you use them to serve others?
Evangelization in Today’s World – The conference emphasized the importance of a New Evangelization that meets people where they are. How can you share the Good News of Jesus in a way that is authentic, inviting, and relevant to today’s culture?
Balancing Faith and Action – Like the shape of the cross, our faith must have both a deep connection with God (vertical) and with others (horizontal). How well do you balance your personal prayer life with active service to others?
Overcoming Lukewarm Faith – Many baptized Christians fall away from faith over time. What are some ways you can reignite your faith or help others rediscover their relationship with God?
The Role of the Holy Spirit – The Holy Spirit stirs things up and calls us to transformation. Have you ever felt a time when the Holy Spirit challenged or encouraged you to step out of your comfort zone?
Living as a Disciple – YMES ended with the powerful challenge: “Jesus Christ loves you. Not some of you. All of you. Will you love too?” What does it mean to love as Christ loves, and how can you bring this love into your community?
Discuss
Song - Holy Spirit
Song - Nothing Else Matters
Final Prayer
Holy Spirit, You are welcome here—come and flood our hearts, our homes, and our communities with Your presence. Fill us with Your wisdom, peace, and courage so that we may walk boldly in faith, sharing the love of Christ with the world. Stir within us the gifts You have given, that we may use them to serve, heal, and bring hope to those in need. Let our lives be a reflection of Your grace, and may we always remain open to Your guidance. Draw us ever closer to You, that we may be overcome by Your presence and transformed in Your love. Amen.
(Audio Available)
