A day of prayer, reflection and fun!

An invitation to a day of prayer, reflection and fun was accepted by 17 young people from Kent and London. It was wonderful to welcome them to St Anne’s Home in London on the 29^th March 2025 from 10-30 am to 6 pm. The group were international from China, Hungary, Nigeria, Philippines, India, Nairobi, Zimbabwe, Poland, France, Czech Republic, Vietnam, Ghana and France. Mother Caroline, Sister Maria Gladisa, Sister Stella, Sister Mary Agnes from the Little Sisters of the Poor and Sister Yvonne from the Congregation of the Dominican Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus were delighted to be present during the event. Kinga who is a member of the youth group at St Anne’s was happy to lead the two spiritual sessions, prepared with a lot of attention and love. 

Mother Caroline welcomed the group and asked them to close their eyes and put themselves into the presence of the Lord. Each one found a comfortable position to listen to the word of God. The atmosphere of silence was impressive and allowed us to feel the presence of God amongst us. During the event, we were preparing ourselves for Holy week.  A large Cross was placed on the floor with red candles and the Stations of the Cross images. The chosen theme for the day was “Think of the Love of …”1 John3:1

 After a time of prayer, Kinga invited each one to reflect in groups using a passage of scripture showing God’s love towards us. The workshops were lively and everyone was at ease to share their thoughts.

At 12h, Mass was celebrated by Father Daniel. During the homily, Father encouraged the group to continue to Hope and listen to the Word of God in our daily life. Father reminded us, that “We are Pilgrims on a journey of Love”.

After Mass there was time for a game of football or a walk in the garden.  The meal was delicious and we enjoyed meeting new members of our youth group.

At 2-30pm the afternoon session began were we discussed the importance of Mary and her love through the scriptures. Kinga invited us to collect a red heart so that we could write on the heart our thoughts concerning our Love for Mary.  The hearts were placed on the cross, we understood that Mary always leads us to Jesus.

Each person received a gift bag containing a bracelet with the words. “Love and faith in action”. Some stickers with spiritual messages to guide us on the Pilgrimage of Hope.  A note book and pen to write our thoughts and plans for the future portraying our Love for God and others. A picture saying” Being confident of this very thing (Philippines) also a poem of Mary’s Heart.  A leaflet with the history of the congregation and prayer to Jeanne Jugan.

Several youth were pleased to carry the Cross into the chapel for mass, adoration, evening prayer and Benediction.

After the time of prayer we enjoyed some refreshments together and spent time with the community of St Anne’s. The catering staff made fresh cakes, they were appreciated by all.