It’s not often that large crowds of Catholic Christians get to gather together, pray together, laugh together, eat together and enjoy faith together. Perhaps one of the greatest memories I have of this was during the Papal visit of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to the UK for the beatification of (the then Bl.) John Henry Newman. How the parks filled with people both the faithful and the none, wanting to catch a glimpse of the Pope or one of the celebrities performing on a stage as part of the celebration.
WeBelieve is a Catholic festival that started last year. Holly and I went from the parish this year, and we were not disappointed! I could see how it had grown in attendance since its inception, and everyone we spoke to in attendance said they would be going next year. Starting on the Friday evening and finishing on the Monday morning, the days include Holy Mass that everyone attends, Reconciliation Service, Healing Service, marketplace, lots (and lots!) of talks on different topics relating to the faith. There are food trucks, cafés, bouncy castle for the kiddies, teen tents, a performance stage and the beautiful building of Oscott college itself with its stunning chapel, that help make the atmosphere one of faith, fun, family and food.
We arrived for a beautiful Mass led by Bishop Mark O’Toole. Concelebrating were 6 other bishops, and at least 25 other priests. If you’ve never seen this many clergy grace one sanctuary before… well… I can tell you that it is a sight to behold! What group of people isn’t looking for solid leadership? Well... ours just happen to follow Jesus. We felt led and nurtured, fed and encouraged over the weekend – the flock has been tended and cared for lovingly, as a nation-wide collective. With everyone being so friendly and welcoming, it was great to have time with each other, learning from each other and being encouraged by each others’ devotion and commitment to Christ. Jesus was truly present!
Next year, we intend to plan a much larger group of us to go. Future dates are yet to be announced but we will communicate them as soon as we hear so that you can book the dates into your diaries.
God bless you,
Claz.
