The YOUTH 2000 EVENT was a Catholic retreat for young adults 16-35 years old. Two hundred and fifty young people; several priests, Mother Caroline, Kinga, Stephanie and Sister Mary Agnes from St Anne’s Home, Little Sisters of the Poor, London were happy to participate at the event. The discussions were in the meeting hall at the Church of the Sacred Heart Parish in Wimbledon. The church is a grade 2 listed for its architectural importance and remains a major Catholic parish in the area. The church was designed by Frederick Arthur Walters in a late decorated gothic style.
After a prayer and word of welcome. The Apostolic Nuncio read the message from Pope Leo XIV assuring each person present at the retreat of his prayers. Inviting each one to become a sign of hope in the world.
The Youth 2000 day of reflection and prayer invited each one to deepen their faith, encourage prayer and build a community spirit Throughout the day there were teachings sessions that focused on the “Love of God and Others.”
Each one was able to explore what it means to be in relationship with God? To encounter Jesus in the Eucharist: grow in relationship with Him and His Mother and form friendship with other young people.
Edmund Adamus reminded us that scripture is like a love letter that we receive, we need to read it often and appreciate the value of scripture that helps us to become more Christ like. He also encouraged everyone to have good friends and not to spend too much time on the phone….
Each talk was inspiring, thoughtful, and clearly aimed at strengthening our spiritual journey. There were opportunities for small group discussions, and fellow ship, which allowed everyone to connect with each other, share faith experiences, and support one another. The retreat enabled us to step back from the busyness of everyday life and focus on growing closer to God
A key part of the retreat was times of prayer, adoration, sacrament of reconciliation and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. We could experience personally the presence of God. The Mass was concelebrated by four priests. During the homily the priest mentioned that we don’t need to be perfect to follow the Lord. The Lord calls us to a relationship with him. We need to follow the light of Christ helping others. We are the chosen people.
During lunch time we had the opportunity to meet several young people, we gave them invitations to our youth events in St Anne’s. Day of retreat 21st March 2026. Four-day event before Easter and Lectio Divina sessions during Lent. In the evening a time of silent adoration was appreciated followed by a time of reconciliation in the chapel. A supper was served and people enjoyed sharing their experiences of the day. The two hundred and fifty youth returned home and were ready to share the light of Christ with others
