Youth Program at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Dubbo, Ethiopia

Our lady of Lourdes parish in Dubbo has been actively engaging young members of the community through organized retreats and various spiritual activities, particularly during the Advent season. In the beginning of the Advent season 2024, the parish organized a retreat for approximately 35 young men and women. This group consisted of youth who are part of the parish's various youth groups. The retreat aimed to provide a space for reflection and growth as they prepared for the Christmas season.

Our Lady of Lourdes parish youth group photo with Sr. Asnekech Assefa MSC & Sr. Berhane Ashebo MSC

The second group consisted of about 17 individuals who participated in a retreat at the end of the Advent season. This group was particularly focusing on exploring different life paths such as religious life, marriage, or single life. The retreat helped them in the process of discernment, helping them to understand and respond to their vocations.

The sisters worked collaboratively with the parish priest to organize these retreats and spiritual classes. This ensured the programs were well-prepared and conducive to spiritual growth. The sisters' involvement provided additional guidance and support, enriching the experience for the participants.

Participants must be above the age of 12 to join these programs. This age limit ensures that the youth are mature enough to engage meaningfully in the retreats and related activities. Additionally, being part of these programs complements their catechism classes, providing a well-rounded spiritual education.

Since the establishment of the parish, there has always been a focus on youth and vocation group programs. This tradition followed the arrival of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (MSCs) in Ethiopia and it has continuously evolved to meeting the needs of the parish community. Though the groups have changed over time, the commitment to nurturing young people's spiritual lives remains steadfast.