Future Catholic leaders for Oceania receive training

Young people from several Pacific Island nations took part in a two-day Youth Ministry Leaders Training event in Suva. Held at Marist Brothers High School in Suva, the training was conducted by the Australian Catholic University and Catholic Schools Youth Ministry International. It was supported by the Catholic Education Office of the Archdiocese of Suva.

It was an extensive experience of formation to inspire and equip youth and ministry leaders for the mission of the Church. Among those at Suva for the event were 15 students from Nukutere College in the Cook Islands. They were accompanied by several teachers and parents.

“The event brings together leaders and emerging voices in Catholic education from across the South Pacific,” said Nukutere College acting principal Rauhina Tipuna.

The college wanted to support the initiative through services and cultural participation.  

“Representing the Cook Islands with pride, their presence is part of a wider mission to deepen faith formation, support leadership development and foster unity among Catholic schools in the region. Students will gain accreditation as youth leaders for evangelisation,” Mr Tipuna said.

The 15 students were entrusted to share their conference experiences when they returned. It is anticipated that they will run youth retreats and formation sessions for the younger students in Catholic schools in Rarotonga.

“They are hoping to inspire other young people to grow in faith and leadership within their own communities,” Mr Tipuna said.

This initiative is seen as a significant step in forming the next generation of Catholic leaders across Oceania. The training, along with the Catholic Education Leaders Training programme, concluded with a praise and worship service followed by a Mass.

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𝐀𝐎𝐒 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓 | YOUTH MINISRY LEADERS TRAINING… (Archdiocese of Suva/Facebook)

Nukutere College students head to Fiji for Catholic Youth Leadership programme (Cook Islands News)