In a troubled world, Dare to Hope

Over 160 young Catholics gathered on the grounds of UCC on Sunday to CONNECT about faith and meet with other young people from the Diocese of Cork and Ross

Fr Columba Jordan CFR, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal and Ms Katie Ascough, Founder of ‘Called to More’, were the guest speakers at CONNECT 5 to speak on this year’s CONNECT theme which was “In a troubled world, Dare to Hope”.

This was the fifth in a series of meetings of young people which were initiated by Bishop Fintan Gavin, Bishop of Cork and Ross, to help young Catholics CONNECT with each other in a sociable and reflective atmosphere.

Speaking to the young people between 18 and 35 years, Fr Columba said “We don’t get hope by figuring out the problems of the world. We get hope from the Lord. Hope is based on what God has promised.”

CONNECT 5 Attendees

Katie Ascough spoke to the group about the challenges of living in the modern world, but that we can trust and hope in God to find peace in our hearts.

During the day, the young people participated in a Q&A with Bishop Fintan and the guest speakers, attended Mass and spent time in quiet prayer during Adoration.

In his homily, Bishop Fintan spoke about the troubles of the world that our young people face, and in that world where do we find our identity, meaning and hope:

“You are the beloved daughters and sons of God. Like Christ we too are chosen, blessed, broken and given to the world. In our darkest moments when our world appears to be collapsing, Jesus will be with us as a light in our darkness, as a companion on our way.”

The young people who attended said it was a moving, powerful day, full of hope for the future.

Anna O’Shaughnessy, from Glanmire, said that to see so many young people gathering together to talk about faith gave her hope.

“These CONNECT events are great to meet with old friends but also to see new faces, it’s nice to know there are other young Catholics out there.”

Gavin Dunne, from South Parish, said he also really enjoyed the day.

“I really enjoyed the questions and answer time, people asked really intentional and relevant questions about our faith which was very inspiring.”

Instagram Competition

The Diocese of Cork and Ross announced its Instagram competition at yesterday’s CONNECT event to win a trip to the SEEK conference in Cologne, Germany.

To enter, you need to follow the following Instagram accounts and comment on how we can help you grow in your faith and share.

@diocese_cork_and_ross and @connect_cork_and_ross