On the Solemnity of Christ the King, Catholic Youth Ministry hosted the much-anticipated Christ the King Youth Festival at St Mary’s Cathedral.
The vibrant and inspiring event brought together over 1,500 young people from across the Archdiocese, with attendees spilling out of the Cathedral during the powerful youth and young adults co-ordinated Mass.
The day was a true celebration of faith and community, filled with joy, connection, and thanksgiving.
The Mass, celebrated by Vicar General, the Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn, together with concelebrants, St Mary’s Cathedral Assistant Priests, Fr Kenneth Acosta and Fr Jason Yeap, St Charles Seminary Rector, Fr Francis Nguyen, Armadale Parish Priest Fr Mark Baumgarten, Fremantle Parish Assistant Priest Fr Giancarlo Lollo OMI, and Tribunal Canon Lawyer Fr Conor Steadman and Salvatorian Regional Superior Fr George Kolodziej SDS.
Held in honour of youth, the Mass featured a special blessing for youth leaders and young attendees, reflecting the spirit of World Youth Day as envisioned by Pope Francis.
Following the Mass, the Cathedral grounds came alive with an energetic festival atmosphere, featuring live music, expo stands, and delicious food trucks.
Thanks to the support of nearly 200 dedicated volunteers, the event ran seamlessly, ensuring that every participant had a meaningful and memorable experience.
Attendee Cameron Van Den Bogert, a stallholder and experienced youth ministry leader, shared what he saw was an amazing and smoothly run event.
“From the excellent communication beforehand to the welcoming spirit on the day, your team went above and beyond,” Cameron said.
“I was particularly moved by the sight of so many young people gathered for the Christ the King Mass. It was inspiring,” he said.
Fellow participant Bradley Le Guier also noted it was a great event with a great atmosphere.
“I really appreciated how many people and different diocesan groups came out for the event—it gave a sense of the universality of the Church seen through the youth of the Church,” Bradley said.
Another participant commented: “It was a great event that allowed us to connect to all of the amazing Catholic Youth communities. It made me feel connected and in tune with my faith even more so.”
CYM Director Adam Phillips said the Festival demonstrated the vitality of the Church’s youth and the joy of shared faith.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the volunteers, stallholders, and attendees who made the event possible,” Mr Phillips said.
“Together, we created a truly unforgettable day that celebrated the universality of our Church and the strength of our youth community,” he said.
