20 August 2026 · 2026-08 newsletter
Shrine Time is a monthly Holy Hour in the Shrine at Mulgoa for youth and young adults which usually attracts about 10-15 young people from all over western Sydney. In the month July, Shrine Time was a little more special than usual as it was advertised as a ‘Winter Special’ with an added bonfire and social gathering. Last year the ‘Winter Special’ had a great response and was such a beautiful evening that with great enthusiasm it was requested once again this year.
On Sunday evening July 12th the Shrine was completely full, with even a few young people standing at the back of the Shrine to get away from the cold. The meditation given by Sr. M. Rita reflected on the Gospel of the day about the parable of the Sower. The key message emphasised that God is so generous with his love for us that he will seek us out no matter what situation we may find ourselves in. During the time of silence, the young people were invited to write a letter to Jesus or Mary as a form of prayer and surrender, and once completed they placed their letters into the jar to be later burnt in the bonfire.
During the evening Fr Pawel OP also made himself available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and was kept very busy with many young people taking up the invitation, which was a true blessing. A group of young adults from Our Lady of the Rosary, Kellyville assisted with creating a very beautiful, deep and prayerful atmosphere in the Shrine with their powerful and amazing voices. The time of prayer in the Shrine ended with Benediction.
We then gathered the benches around the fire pit and sat directly in front of the Shrine. It was such a joyful and peaceful atmosphere sitting, so to say, in the “shadow of the Shrine”. Many enjoyed the roasted marshmallows, hot chocolate as well as the great company! An added joy was that Fr Johnson and Fr Pradeep, the Somascan priests from Glenmore Park, also joined us for the Holy Hour in the Shrine and the time around the bonfire.
Sr. M. Rita Baysari
Filed underNewsletter · Youth