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FROM THE YOUTH DESK YOUTH PENTECOST AFTERNOON OF PRAYER BALANCING FAITH AND LIFE WEBINAR YOUTH CATHOLIC SINGLES MIXER DIOCESAN YOUTH CONVENTION A CALL TO DISCERN: STRENGTHENING VOCATIONS THROUGH YOUTH MINISTRY YOUTH IN FOCUS ( ESTHER FERNANDES) DO NOT LET ANYONE LOOK DOWN ON YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE YOUNG, BUT SET AN EXAMPLE FOR THE BELIEVERS IN SPEECH, IN CONDUCT, IN LOVE, FAITH AND PURITY. 1 Timothy 4:12
PUBLISHED BY THE DIOCESAN ROMAN CATHOLIC YOUTH OFFICE VOLUME 01 | ISSUE #02| SEPTEMBER 2026
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Dear Readers, Welcome to the second issue of Highlights & Moments from the Youth Desk, where we look back at some of the exciting moments in youth ministry over the past few months. From May’s Pentecost Prayer Afternoon, where over 40 young people gathered to pray and reflect on the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit, to our June Youth Webinar, “Balancing Faith and Life as Young Catholics,” young people found a space to share, ask questions, and discover that they are not alone in the challenges they face. In July, the Catholic Singles Mixer brought young adults together for an evening of connection and conversations while also helping to support the upcoming Youth Convention. Then came August with the Diocesan Youth Convention 2026, where over 300 young people from across Guyana gathered at Marian Academy for a weekend of faith, fellowship, service, prayer, and encounter with Christ. But these moments are about more than events. They are about building a community where young people feel seen, heard, and inspired to live out their faith. Connect with Us! We invite you to share your stories, achievements and memorable moments and we will feature them in the next edition of Highlights and Moments.
Mrs. Angela Abraham-Parks Diocesan Youth Coordinator
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office Volume 01 | Issue #02| september 2026 Tele: 226-4469 | 677-1583
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YOUTH PENTECOST AFTERNOON OF PRAYER Pentecost is often called the “birthday of the Church.” It marks the powerful moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples like a rushing wind. They saw what appeared to be tongues of fire resting above each of them, and Scripture tells us, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:4) Inspired by this great feast, the Diocesan Youth Office hosted a Youth Pentecost Prayer Afternoon on May 24, 2026, at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church. It was an afternoon filled with prayer, praise, fellowship and, most importantly, an opportunity for over 40 young people to encounter the Holy Spirit.
BEGINNING WITH LIGHT The afternoon began at the entrance of the church, where candles were lit as the youth and other parishoners gathered together. With an opening prayer led by Fr Carl Philadelphia ,the sound of praise and worship filled the air as participants processed into the church. The flickering candles served as a reminder of the flame of the Holy Spirit and God’s presence among His people. As we entered the church together, we were reminded that the same Spirit who filled the disciples at Pentecost continues to move in the lives of the Church today.
GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT To better understand the meaning of Pentecost, Br. Andrew James led an engaging presentation on the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit. He creatively demonstrated how the gifts and fruits are connected and how they can be lived out in our everyday lives. “How am I using what God has given me?” When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, the fruits of the Spirit become visible in our lives. The gifts, meanwhile, strengthen and guide us in living out our Christian vocation. The message was simple, wherever we are in life, God has given us gifts that can be used generously not only for ourselves, but to serve others and build His Kingdom.
PRAYING FOR ONE ANOTHER Youths were paired with prayer partners and invited to share where they were in their lives be it joyful moments, challenges, fears, uncertainty or simply feeling stuck. Each THURSDAY person was given the opportunity to pray for their partner, placing their lives and intentions into God’s hands. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, being there for someone and praying with them can be one of the greatest gifts we can offer. ADORATION AND CONFESSION The afternoon moved into a powerful time of Adoration and Confession. In the quiet presence of Jesus, the youth were invited to reflect, pray and reconnect with God. They were invited to write their fears and surrender them to God. These intentions were symbolically placed on branches, a visual reminder that we do not have to carry everything alone. In the presence of God, we were reminded that our worries can become reasons to trust Him more deeply.
See More Photos Here:
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
Volume 01 | Issue #02| September 2026
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BALANCING FAITH AND LIFE AS YOUNG CATHOLICS WEBINAR
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BALANCING FAITH AND LIFE THROUGH SHARED STORIES AND FAITH - BY ALANA LEWIS A hybrid webinar held under the theme “Balancing Faith and Life as Young Catholics” took place on May 30. With the participation of around 60 youths (both in person and online), six panelists and a moderator, a fruitful conversation was held on how our spiritual lives can be prioritized whilst navigating the pressures of life. The moderator was Ms. Cheyenne Jordan and our six panelists were: Ms. Kean Chase, Sr. Meg Ekhart, RSM, Ms. Aaliyah Kendall, Ms. Nadia DeAbreu and Mr. and Mrs. Raul & Techana Couchman. With their varied backgrounds, rich insight was brought to the table as they shared their own life experiences. One of the key takeaways from the discussion was that balance is an ongoing process, for life is not constant but ever-changing. Figuring out balance in our individual lives comes from adjusting and adapting to the different seasons of our lives and moreover, our reliance on God’s grace to get us through. The different perspectives given by our panelists, as they answered a series of structured questions, was a gentle reminder that we are never alone in our struggles; whether it be faith or life in general. Ms. Nadia shared her struggles when she first became a mother and how her faith carried her through periods of her life when she could not see a way out. Her story is testament to God’s faithfulness and continuous presence regardless of our circumstances. As for the Couchman’s, they shared some of the techniques that they implement to balance their family life. They stressed the importance of providing a space where feelings could be expressed and received with open-mindedness and gentle guidance. They also underscored the importance of their commitment to Jesus, whether as individuals, a couple or a family. Furthermore, Ms. Aaliyah touched on how she lives an intentional life as a young adult by creating little goals she works towards, boundaries she implements and accepting who she is as a person. THURSDAY Sr. Meg, on the other hand, shared her experience of how in her twenties she checked all the boxes of a woman her age, but she still felt the calling to be part of something more. Her advice was to live out what you find joy in doing and sometimes the discovery of that involves trying out different things. Last but not least, Ms. Kean, a vibrant young woman, re-emphasized the importance of health in relation to all its aspects: mental, physical and social. As the famous saying goes, “One cannot be well if one is physically well yet one’s mental health or social life suffers.”
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To end the day, the attendees, both in person and on zoom, participated in group reflection and prayer. All in all, the day was a refresher for ways in which we can maintain stability in our individual lives, and it also served as a reminder that we are all a family through Christ and thus we ought to be there for each other. Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
Volume 01 | Issue #02| September 2026
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YOUTH CATHOLIC SINGLES MIXER OVER 60 YOUNG CATHOLIC ADULTS. ONE ROOFTOP. AN EVENING OF MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS AND NEW CONNECTIONS. Set against the cool open skies at the Crown Mining Rooftop on Dennis Street, the Youth Catholic Singles Mixer welcomed more than 60 young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 for an evening of connection and great conversations. This wasn't just another social event and definitely not just a fundraiser. It was a space where young Catholics could meet new people, share experiences, ask important questions and explore what God might be calling them too next. Being a young adult comes with plenty of big questions: Am I called to marriage? Could God be calling me to priesthood or religious life? How do I know if a relationship is healthy? How do I heal from past hurts? How do I navigate life while keeping my faith at the centre? The Singles Mixer created an engaging space to explore some of these questions. One of the highlights of the evening was the panel discussion, where young adults got the chance to hear from an inspiring lineup of voices who brought different experiences and perspectives to the table. Joining the conversation were Dr. Janese October, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Mr. & Mrs Robin & . Sharon Roberts, Fr. Santiago Lantigua SJ and Ms. Nadia DeAbreu, a member of the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team, served as moderator. From relationships and mental health to marriage and vocations, the panel tackled some of the real questions young adults face while navigating life, relationships and their future.
Dr. Janese October encouraged the young adults to reflect on emotional well-being, relationships, personal growth and the challenges they encounter. The discussion opened the door on topics such as healing from past hurts, recognizing healthy and toxic relationships, dealing with emotional baggage and finding positive ways to cope with life's challenges. It was a powerful reminder that taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is an important part of becoming the person God is calling you to be. Mr& Mrs Robin & Sharon Roberts, shared from their personal journey of marriage. Their honest reflections on love, commitment, communication and compromise gave the young adults a real-life perspective on what it means to choose each other and grow together through the different seasons of life. Fr. Santiago Lantigua, SJ also shared on relationships and faith. He encouraged young adults to remain open to God's voice as they discern their own paths whether that leads to marriage, priesthood, religious life or another THURSDAY way of serving God and His people. Together, the panelists offered a beautiful reminder that there isn't a single roadmap for life. Each person has a unique journey, and discernment is about discovering where God is leading you.
See More Photos Here: Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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DIOCESAN YOUTH CONVENTION More than 300 young people from Regions One to Four, Seven, Eight and Nine gathered at Marian Academy, Georgetown, from August 7 to 9 for the 2026 Diocesan Youth Convention. Held under the theme, “Fan the Flame: Ablaze for Christ”, inspired by 2 Timothy 1:6–8, the Convention provided a weekend of prayer, fellowship, service and encounter with Christ. The Convention officially opened on Friday, August 7, with the celebration of Holy Mass. Bishop Francis Alleyne, OSB, was joined by Bishop John Persaud and Fathers Cristóvão Primo, SJ, and Joel Thompson, SJ. In his homily, Fr. Joel reflected on St. Paul’s encouragement to Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God within him. Drawing on the Gospel account of the Road to Emmaus, he reminded the young people that Jesus walks with them even during moments of sadness, disappointment and sin. He encouraged them not to allow the Convention to be only a temporary “bright spark”, but to keep the flame of faith alive through Mass, prayer and the daily practice of their faith. Like coals that remain hot when kept together, he urged them to remain close to Christ and to one another. During his opening remarks, Bishop Francis encouraged the young people to recognise and use the gifts God has given them. He reminded them that they are valued members of the Church and have an important role in its life and mission. Diocesan Youth Coordinator Mrs. Angela Abraham-Parks welcomed the participants and invited them to make the most of the weekend by, strengthening friendships and growing in their Catholic faith. She also encouraged them to share their ideas with the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team about strengthening youth ministry in their parishes and communities.
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
Volume 01 | Issue #02| September 2026
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DIOCESAN YOUTH CONVENTION Day Two featured a presentation by Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon entitled “Discipleship: A Journey to More and More Grace”, inspired by 2 Peter 1:2. Archbishop Gordon explained that discipleship is a lifelong journey of allowing God’s grace to enter more deeply into every area of one’s life. At the heart of his presentation was the kerygma, the joyful proclamation that Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ lives now and Christ will come again. He challenged the young people to consider who handed the faith on to them and to whom they are now handing it on. He reminded them that an encounter with Jesus should lead to witness, service and love for others. The presentation was followed by a panel discussion featuring Archbishop Jason Gordon, Bishop Francis Alleyne, OSB, Bishop John Persaud, Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ, and Sr. Marie Harper, OSU. Ms. Nadia DeAbreu, a member of the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team, served as moderator. In the afternoon, the young people put discipleship into action through outreach activities. They visited homes for the elderly and children and reached out to persons in need on the streets, sharing Christ’s love through their presence, compassion and service.The day concluded with a presentation by Fr. Edwin Anthony, SJ, on the importance of Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This was followed by Eucharistic Adoration and an opportunity for the young people to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
THURSDAY
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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DIOCESAN YOUTH CONVENTION The final day began with a procession from the Seawall Bandstand to Marian Academy. The young people prayed the Rosary, sang hymns and joyfully proclaimed, “Fan the Flame: Ablaze for Christ!” The procession celebrated the faith, diversity and unity of Guyana’s young Catholic community. The procession was followed by the celebration of Holy Mass, with Bishop John Persaud as the principal celebrant. In his homily, Bishop John reminded that God does not always reveal Himself through mighty winds, fire or other extraordinary signs. Often, God comes to us in a gentle breeze and speaks quietly within our hearts, but we fail to recognise His presence because we are searching for something dramatic. He stressed that people cannot survive when they separate themselves from God, since it is God who makes the impossible possible. Referring to the words of the Lord’s Prayer, “Your will be done”,Bishop John challenged the young people to consider whether they truly trust God and are willing to place their lives in His hands. Following Mass, the participants joined in a lively session of praise and worship. Bishop John later delivered a presentation entitled “Here I Am, Lord: Listening to God’s Voice and Using My Gifts”. He encouraged the young people to listen to God with their hearts, make time for silence and prayer, and recognise the gifts God has placed within them. Drawing on the example of Samuel, he invited them to be ready to hear and respond to God’s call. Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ, then presented on “Decisions, Discernment and Listening for God”. He explained that the choices young people make each day help to shape the persons they become. He described discernment as a prayerful process of listening to God, recognising how He may be guiding us and having the courage to follow. Fr. Joel encouraged the young people to examine where their thoughts and desires are leading them and whether their choices will help them become more loving, honest, generous and closer to God. He also outlined practical steps for discernment, including prayer, silence, reading Scripture, gathering the necessary facts and seeking advice from wise and trustworthy persons. The young people then participated in outdoor games led by Pilay Todd, providing an opportunity for recreation, teamwork and fellowship. Fr. Joel later led a session on Lectio Divina and Gospel sharing. He guided the participants in reading the Gospel slowly, reflecting in silence, sharing the words or phrases that touched their hearts and considering how God’s Word was calling them to act. The Convention concluded with a campfire and concert at the Kingston Foreshore. It was a joyful ending to a weekend filled with prayer, reflection, service and fellowship. As the young people returned to their homes, parishes, schools and communities, they carried with them the challenge to keep the flame of faith alive, listen attentively to God’s voice and use their gifts in service to the Church and others. THURSDAY
See More Photos Here: Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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A CALL TO DISCERN: STRENGTHENING VOCATIONS THROUGH YOUTH MINISTRY The Youth Office recently welcomed Fr. Mike Martinez, SJ, Delegate for Vocations Discernment Ministry, who made a brief stop to meet with the Diocesan Youth Coordinator and discuss ways the Youth Ministry can collaborate more closely with the Jesuit Youth and Vocations Ministry. The conversation focused on creating more opportunities for young people to encounter Christ, explore their calling, and prayerfully discern their vocation whether to religious life, priesthood, marriage, or other forms of service to the Church. During his visit, Fr. Mike also met with various commissions and youth groups to explore how greater collaboration can help create a stronger culture of vocations awareness and discernment across the Diocese.
THURSDAY
See More Photos Here: Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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YOUTH IN FOCUS - ESTHER FERNANDES ESTHER’S QUIET IMPACT IN ST.FRANCIS BORGIA RC CHURCH. At 19, Esther Fernandes is a teacher in training at the Cyril Potter College of Education and a youth leader at St. Francis Borgia RC Church in Potarinau, Region 9. Passionate about teaching and youth ministry, Esther enjoys helping young people discover both the joy of learning and the beauty of the Catholic faith. Her Catholic journey began at a young age through her family and church community. She became involved in reading on Sunday and leading morning devotions. Under her leadership, her youth team proudly represented the church at the annual Diocesan Bible Quiz, placing third in the Senior Round. Esther credits her mother as one of her greatest influences. From ensuring she attended Sunday Service or Mass to teaching her to be an altar server and encouraging her participation in youth activities, her mother helped lay the foundation for her faith. She also acknowledges Fr. Edwin Anthony, SJ, who encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone and believe in herself. His guidance during Adoration helped her develop a deeper relationship with God. Much of Esther’s work happens quietly, but its impact can be felt throughout her parish. Working together with the youths and Parish Lay Team, Esther played an active role in planning, organizing and carrying out a successful Youth Convention in Potarinau, Region 9 for more than 500 young people from across the Rupununi. She also believes that serving the Church starts with simple acts. Esther and the youths regularly assist with THURSDAY cleaning and preparing the church for Sunday Mass and other services, showing that leadership is not always about being in the spotlight. Sometimes, it simply means being willing to roll up your sleeves and serve. For Esther, faith is more than attending church; it is a commitment to Christ that is lived through everyday actions.
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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YOUTH IN FOCUS - ESTHER FERNANDES Inspired by St. Teresa of Calcutta, Esther holds close the words: “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” These words reflect the way she approaches youth leadership, believing that even the simplest acts of service can make a lasting difference. Esther’s journey is a reminder to young Catholics across the Diocese that you do not have to wait for a big opportunity to make a difference. Start with your parish, your youth group and the gifts God has already given you. “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” — St. Teresa of Calcutta
THURSDAY
Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office
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Thank You for Keeping the Flame Alive! As we reflect on the many moments shared over the past few months, we are reminded that none of this would be possible without the support of our wider Catholic community. Thank you to all our donors, parishes, families, and friends who generously supported the Youth Office and helped make these activities possible. To the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team for your willingness to serve and efforts behind the scenes continue to make a difference in the lives of our young people. As we look ahead, we ask for continued prayers for our young people, and the work of youth ministry.
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Layout & Design: Mr & Mrs Couchman Editorial Team: Mrs. Angela Abraham- Parks, Joshua Van-Sluytman, Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ & Justin Thompson, Published by the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office Volume 01 | Issue #02| September 2026
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