A Beautiful Night of Faith, Friendship, and Belonging

4 days ago
3 min read

LNS Young Adult Gathering at St Leonard’s Church, Naremburn

Last night was truly a joyful and grace-filled evening for the LNS Young Adult Group at St Leonard’s Church, Naremburn. What began just two weeks ago with 18 participants during our launch has already grown to 21 young adults gathering together, a sign of the enthusiasm, openness, and hunger for community among our young people.

Even before the evening officially began, many members of the group attended the 6:00 pm Mass celebrated by Fr. Vincent. The liturgy was especially meaningful as some of the music was led by members of the Young Adult Group themselves. After Mass, many stayed behind to welcome newcomers and continue the evening together. One new participant even travelled all the way from Newcastle, almost a three-hour train journey, simply to be part of the gathering. That commitment alone speaks volumes about the desire young adults have for connection, faith, and belonging.

Following Mass, everyone made their way to the Parish Hall where the Leadership Team warmly welcomed them. Participants signed in and enjoyed a delicious dinner together, Filipino spaghetti, chicken wings, pizza, savouries and sweets, along with soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Even before the formal program began, laughter and conversation filled the room as people began mingling, introducing themselves, and forming new friendships.

The evening formally began with a series of fun icebreakers that helped everyone relax and get to know each other better. This was followed by a welcome address from one of the group’s leaders, setting the tone for the night and reminding everyone that this space is meant to be one of openness, friendship, and faith.

Fr. Roger then led the group into a reflective yet interactive formation talk on “Identity in Christ,” part of the broader theme of Belonging. The talk invited the young adults to reflect on deeper questions about identity: Who am I beyond achievements, expectations, and labels? What does it mean to know that we are created, chosen, and loved by God?

The reflection concluded in a beautiful and moving way. Picking up his guitar, Fr. Roger invited everyone to sing together the song “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns, a powerful reminder that our true identity is found not in the world’s expectations but in God’s love.

After the talk came what many consider the highlight of the night: the table discussions. In small groups, participants shared their thoughts, feelings, and reflections in response to guided questions. It was inspiring to witness the honesty, depth, and openness with which many of the young adults spoke about their experiences, struggles, hopes, and faith journeys.

The formal part of the evening concluded with a heartfelt closing prayer led by one of the leadership team members. Fr. Roger then briefly highlighted some upcoming activities, encouraging everyone to continue participating and growing together as a community.

But the night didn’t end there.

While we initially thought everyone might head home after the program, many stayed on. Conversations continued, new friendships deepened, plates were refilled, and soon the hall echoed with music, laughter, karaoke, and even a little dancing. It became a beautiful moment of simple, joyful community, people bonding through stories, music, and shared experiences.

Indeed, it was a wonderful night.

Friendships were formed. Self-understanding deepened. And most importantly, many were reminded of a powerful truth:

We are not alone.

We belong.

We are chosen.

And we are deeply loved.

We look forward with excitement to the journey ahead for our Young Adult Group at St Leonard’s. If last night is any indication, God is doing something beautiful in the hearts of these young people, and this is only the beginning.