Saturday 2nd March 2019

Flame 2019 returns to the SSE Arena in Wembley, a great celebration of the Catholic Church for youth.  We are in a context where social media “likes” can determine self-esteem. There is a far deeper truth to be shared, and we will be exploring that with Flame’s theme: #Significance.

The music will be led by Tim Hughes, Christian worship leader and songwriter, famous for having written many songs including ‘Here I Am to Worship’ and ‘Happy Day’. Book your place now at https://cymfed.org.uk/flame2019/.

Vocations Sunday will be celebrated on 12th May 2019. This day flows from the broader culture of vocation, and is when the universal Church asks the Lord to send more labourers to the harvest.

You can now order resources for Vocations Sunday, which can be used in your parish, school or community. Please download the order form and return with your order to enquiries@ukvocation.org or by post to: National Office for Vocation, 39 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1BX.

Ever wondered if there’s more to life? The BBC have created a documentary following three young people living an alternative lifestyle, one of them being 27-year old Brother John, who is a Benedictine monk at Downside Abbey in Somerset.

To watch the insightful documentary and find out about what life is like in a monastery, please click here.

Portsmouth Diocese are launching a new discernment group for those wishing to explore what vocation God has planned for them to live out. Taking place the first Friday of the month, starting 2nd November from 7-9pm at Sacred Heart Church, Portland Street in Fareham. The evening will consist of sharing a meal together, prayer, reflection and friendship! If you’d like to come, please contact:

Rev. John Cooke on 01329 318 869 or at jcooke@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Mrs. Clare Ryan on 01329 318 869 or at cryan@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

From 3rd – 28th October 2018, Catholic Bishops from around the world will meet in Rome to discuss and debate on the subject: “Youth, Faith and Vocational Discernment”. Pope Francis chose this theme as he feels very strongly on the importance of addressing how the church helps and accompanies young people. Please keep the Synod in your prayers, that the Holy Spirit will guide the Bishops in shaping the future of the Church for young people.

For more information on the Synod, please click here.

If you are someone considering the Catholic priesthood, you may be interested in reading a reflection by a seminarian who is about to enter his last year studying for the priesthood.

Ryan shares his observations and discoveries on his vocational journey so far, and gives some insights into seminary life. Please visit www.ukpriest.org/seminary-reflections to read his honest and engaging reflection.