Diocesan Youth Masses resume at Auckland cathedral

A combination of factors, particularly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, led to the pause of Diocesan Youth Masses in Auckland in 2023.

As parish youth ministries rebuilt momentum since the pandemic, calls to re-establish Diocesan Youth Masses have steadily grown stronger. These hopes were clearly voiced at the Youth Leaders’ Hui in November 2025.

The youth leaders expressed a desire for renewed Youth Masses that would role-model what liturgy could be and provide liturgical formation, equipping young people to contribute to parish liturgies and contribute to building up St Patrick’s Cathedral as a vibrant hub of ministry to young people.

On February 22, young people from across the Diocese gathered for the re-starting of monthly Diocesan Youth Masses at St Patrick’s Cathedral. The first Mass of 2026 was a joyful Commissioning Mass, where Msgr Bernard Kiely blessed and sent forth youth leaders for the year ahead.

The atmosphere was one of celebration, unity and renewed hope as young people gathered once again in their cathedral.

From now on, these Masses will take place at 4.30pm on the last Sunday of each month – a time chosen to improve accessibility for young people and their families.

FULL STORY

NZ Catholic Issue 11 (Catholic Diocese of Auckland)