Journeying Together: Another Blessed Night with the LNS Young Adult Group

Last night was yet another grace-filled and successful gathering of our LNS Young Adult Group, as 21 young adults came together to continue this beautiful journey of faith and community. While three from our previous gathering were unable to join us, we were blessed to welcome three new members into the group, a sign that the community continues to grow and flourish.

The evening began with the 6pm Mass at St. Leonard's Church, where our young adults led the music with reverence and energy, helping to create a prayerful and uplifting atmosphere. The Mass, presided over by Fr. Roger, set the tone for the evening, centered on Christ and grounded in worship.

After Mass, everyone gathered in the parish hall for sign-in, dinner, and a time of mingling, followed by a warm welcome and light-hearted icebreakers. There was a sense of joy and openness as friendships deepened and new connections were formed.

Following the opening prayer, the evening continued with Fr. Roger’s reflection on the Identity, Vision, and Mission of the LNS Young Adult Group, reminding everyone that this is more than just a gathering, it is a community journeying together: to belong in Christ and with one another, to grow and become mature disciples, and to be sent forth as missionary witnesses in the Church and in the world, in Christ’s love for others.

This was followed by a powerful and engaging Lenten Talk by Aaron Espiritu, the first speaker from the Young Adult Group himself, on the theme “Journeying through the Season of Lent.” His reflection resonated deeply, especially as he connected the meaning of Lent to the real experiences of young adults today. He reminded us that Lent is a time for spiritual reflection, a return to God, and a re-orientation of our lives.

His words captured the attention of everyone present. Many were struck by his insight: "The contradictions of Lent show that our instincts about life, success, and power are often misaligned… Jesus reveals that humility is greatness, service is leadership, and sacrifice leads to life.” And also: "Lent is not about praying, fasting, and almsgiving for a show… but about returning to God and allowing Him to re-orient our focus and priorities.”

These reflections opened the space for meaningful sharing. Participants were then invited into small groups, where they reflected honestly and sincerely on questions such as:

• Where do I see God at work in my life right now?

• What is one thing God is inviting me to change this Lent?

• What helps me trust God during difficult times?

  
  

There was a beautiful spirit of openness, deep listening, and mutual encouragement.

The highlight of the reflection was the Lenten Chain Activity, where each young adult wrote their personal responses: burdens, intentions, struggles, and hopes, on strips of paper, linking them together into a chain. It was a powerful symbol that everything we carry is united in Christ and in one another as a community.

The formal part of the evening concluded with everyone singing 10,000 Reasons, followed by a final blessing. Though some had to leave early (and missed the group photo!), they left filled with joy and gratitude.

As the night wound down, a few stayed behind to help pack up, while others continued the fellowship with karaoke, singing their hearts out in laughter and joy. It was a fitting end to an evening that was not only spiritually enriching but also deeply life-giving.

Indeed, the LNS Young Adult Group continues to be a place where faith is lived, friendships are formed, and hearts are drawn closer to God.