From Claire Spinelli: Sandhurst Youth Ministry Team Leader 

On 15 February, the Sandhurst Youth Ministry Reference Group (SYMRG) gathered in Shepparton for a day of formation, reflection and strategic planning. The SYMRG, comprised of members from parishes, schools and the chancery, have been working on the strategic goals and direction of Youth Ministry in Sandhurst. The day was partly focused on supporting me in my role as the newly appointed Youth Ministry Team Leader and aligning efforts with the Sandhurst Strategic Mission and Pastoral Goals.

Skilfully led by Gen Bryant, Chris Cotter and Michaela Brooks, the group undertook various formation, team building, strategy and goal setting activities.

Key themes emphasised during the day were the concepts of Mission, Evangelisation and Discipleship and there were meaningful discussions around what this means and looks like for Sandhurst Youth Ministry.

Through clear reference back to the Sandhurst Strategic and Mission and Pastoral goals and the goals of the SYMRG Partnership Proposal, and inspired by Pope Francis’ Christus Vivit, the group shared and developed ideas and plans of action to set the direction for future efforts in Sandhurst Youth Ministry. A strong impetus behind these strategies is the drive to bring young people into encounter with Jesus; minister to people through accompaniment; build relationships; and encourage leadership through formation, ownership and a deep sense of belonging.

The SYMRG is particularly excited about the upcoming Australian Catholic Youth Festival and the encounter, accompaniment and formation opportunities that this holds in this Jubilee Year as we continue to be, and encourage our young people to be, disciples of Jesus and “Pilgrims of Hope”.

The gathering set a positive tone for the future of youth ministry in the Diocese of Sandhurst, with a strong emphasis on community, mission, and relationship-building.

The Australian Catholic Youth Festival will be held in Melbourne from 30 November to 2 December 2025.