Young people gather in South ahead of World Youth Day

With World Youth Day 2027 in Korea just under one year away, the gathering provided a timely opportunity for young people to come together, strengthen friendships and grow in their faith.

Sessions included Fr Suu Nguyen exploring the life of St Carlo Acutis and the saint’s love for the Eucharist, as well as Fr Peter Chadwick reflecting on what it means to be missionary disciples.

It was a truly Spirit-filled weekend, with prayer, song, dance, adoration, Mass and plenty of fun. Most importantly, it was a chance for the diocese’s young people to encounter Christ and one another, and to look ahead with excitement and hope towards World Youth Day in Korea.

In 2027, young adults from the Christchurch and Dunedin Dioceses will have the opportunity to make the journey to World Youth Day together.

“Our pilgrimage will be approximately 18 days in length and will include time in Vietnam before joining pilgrims from around the world for the official World Youth Day celebrations,” stated an application page.

Along the way, pilgrims will experience: Deepening their faith through prayer, worship and pilgrimage; Exploring new cultures and places; Building lifelong friendships with fellow young Catholics; Participating in the global celebration of World Youth Day; Encountering the universal Church in a powerful and inspiring way.

The expected cost of the pilgrimage is approximately $5000-$7000, depending on final travel arrangements. Further details (including a confirmed itinerary, cost and payment schedule) will be provided as planning progresses.

FULL STORY

Pastoral Newsletter September 2026 (Catholic Diocese of Dunedin)

Young People (Catholic Diocese of Dunedin)

World Youth Day – Seoul – 2027 – Catholic Youth Team (Catholic Diocese of Christchurch)

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