tHE Conference 2007

“Who do you say I am?”(Matt 16:15) was the theme of this youth conference. These words that Jesus posed to his disciples 2000 years ago now challenged me and each one of us. The two days gave me time to ponder the fruits of the conference. I realised that Jesus is and has been my hiding place, my comforter, my friend and my advisor for the past twenty years of my life.

tHE Conference, held from 29 to 30 November, was an opportunity for youth from the various ministries and the parish at large, to come together as one community for two spirit-and fun-filled days and to grow as one. There was time for praise and worship, games, activities, personal reflections and para-liturgies.

I prayed that Jesus would pour his love on all of us and let us experience His amazing grace. I was not disappointed.

On the first night, we had a para-liturgy where we were invited to recall and acknowledge the areas of our lives where our faults and weaknesses prevented us from receiving God’s love fully and to write them down. We were then invited to surrender them to God by nailing our pieces of paper onto a big wooden cross. At that moment, it dawned upon me that no matter how sinful we are, God loves us and we are equal in His eyes. I was touched by that reminder and prayed to always have the humility to acknowledge my weaknesses and ask for His forgiveness.

On the second day, I was most struck by the community circle game where we leaned on each other, supporting our weight on the lap of our neighbour. This brought to mind the importance of community and how as one Catholic Church, we need to rely and lean on each other in our faith journey. Through community and fellowship we can further experience His wonders!

tHE Conference not only reminded me of the love and hope Jesus brings when we open our hearts to Him, but it also gave me an insight into the youth of Holy Spirit Church - a seriously happening and energetic bunch! I had loads of fun and am thankful that I spent those two days with God and the community.

After all, “Who do you say I am?”(Matt 16:15)… You could say He is a fun friend to have!

Samantha Ng