Students came from St Joseph’s, Aberdeen; St Mary’s Campus, All Saints College, Maitland; St Paul’s High School, Booragul; St Catherine’s Catholic College, Singleton; St Clare’s High School, Taree and St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton.
The Leaders’ Retreat was initiated after World Youth Day in 2008 to help to unite the young school leaders and to open diocesan pathways for youth. The retreat was organised by the Vicar General, Father Brian Mascord, assisted by the members of the Diocesan Council for Ministry with Young People and Bishop Bill Wright.
These three days were spent not only helping to unleash the potential of the leaders of the schools but also to create, join and begin the journey of leaders within the diocese. During the retreat the students attended leadership and etiquette lessons, played games, swam, prayed, shared meals, participated in liturgies, learnt the history of the diocese and practised how to greet and meet people. Highlights were the Secret Women’s Business and Secret Men’s Business sessions which were memorable for both groups and helped form strong bonds.
The 27 participants formed a Young Leadership Team for the diocese, learned new skills which they can carry with them on their leadership journey and formed great friendships.