CHRISTCHURCH Young people who could not attend the recent World Youth Day in Sydney were able to take part in a Juventutem Weekend in Christchurch from October 17 to 19. Juventutem is an international movement of young Catholics associated with the Tridentine Mass. It began before the Cologne WYD in 2005 and was revived for the Sydney WYD.
Its title comes from the Latin Mass prayers at the foot of the altar: Introibo ad altare Dei ad Deum qui laetificat juventutem meum (I will go to the altar of God, to God who gives joy to my youth).
With the encouragement of Bishop Barry Jones, the local group planning the weekend came up with a mix of talks, teachings (including Gregorian chant), Masses, compline and holy hours.
Presentations were given by Bishop Basil Meeking, Fr William Define (provincial superior of the Fraternity of St Peter from Sydney), Sr Deidre of the Sisters of the Holy Faith and Ken Joblin from the tertiary chaplaincy.
It was an informative, rewarding and highly successful weekend bringing to life the extraordinary form of the Mass, a treasure chest rich and satisfying for the soul, said one of the group, Christine Ashley.
It was exciting to learn about our Catholic heritage and culture, rather like the Maori people who embrace and welcome their heritage.
The group will continue with occasional follow-up programmes next year.
