The sunshine was a welcome addition to a joyful afternoon on Saturday, 3 October, as Bishop Fintan blessed and officially opened the new St. Carlo Acutis Prayer Garden at Presentation Brothers, Mardyke House.
The celebration brought together members of the Presentation Community, friends and supporters of Mardyke House, and many of the young adults involved in the Formation and Faith Programmes based there.
At the heart of the afternoon was a prayer service, during which Bishop Fintan blessed the new garden. The garden, inspired by the life and witness of St. Carlo Acutis, provides a peaceful space for prayer, reflection and encounter, and is a fitting addition to Mardyke House as it continues to develop its ministry with young adults.
Blessing and official opening the new St. Carlo Acutis Prayer Garden at Presentation Brothers, Mardyke House
The garden, inspired by the life and witness of St. Carlo Acutis, is a fitting addition to Mardyke House as it continues to develop its ministry with young adults.
Andrew Lim and Michael Tierney, who are both participating in a Discernment and Formation Programme with the Presentation Brothers, welcomed those gathered and shared reflections on St. Carlo Acutis and the inspiration his life continues to offer to young people.
In his address, Bishop Fintan spoke directly to the young adults present, encouraging them to recognise the gifts and contribution they already bring to the life of the Church.
“Do not underestimate what God can do through you. The Church does not simply need you at some point in the future. Your faith, your gifts, your questions, your enthusiasm and your leadership are needed now.”
The afternoon concluded with a vote of thanks from Br. Simon Fernandes on behalf of the Presentation Community, expressing gratitude to everyone who attended and to all those who helped make the occasion possible.
The Presentation Community at Mardyke House has become an important hub for Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese, working in collaboration with the UCC Chaplaincy.
For information and updates on events for young adults at Mardyke House, email
Bishop Fintan blessed the new garden, which provides a peaceful space for prayer, reflection and encounter.
