Invocation 2012

The Invocation festival is going from strength to strength. Last weekend (6-8 July), this national discernment festival for young adults – part conference, part retreat – was held once again at Oscott College in Birmingham. The format of Invocation 2012 had been honed to provide the maximum opportunity for young Catholics to pray, hear thought-provoking talks, and meet priests and members of religious orders. Here, young men and women could discuss their joys and hopes, ask difficult questions, and make new friends.

Keynote talks were given by Canon Luiz Ruscillo, Sr Catherine Holum (a former champion speed skater), and Bishop Mark Davies. There was also a reflection on Reconciliation by Canon John Udris and a closing homily by the Apostolic Nuncio, Antonio Menini.

   Sr. Catherine Hol

The emphasis on reconciliation was particularly poignant in the presence of the relic of the heart of St John Mary Vianney, that outstanding confessor and patron of priests.

Many different religious orders were present at the festival, reflecting the diversity of vocations and spiritualities within the universal Church.

The participants could join in several workshops to discover more of the spiritual riches of the Catholic tradition and explore their own possible callings. Here, fr. Lawrence Lew OP and Sr. Hyacinthe OP give a workshop on the Gospel-centred spirituality of St. Dominic.

Besides helpful conversations with several discerners, it was the times of prayer and the Eucharistic procession that I found particularly special. These are the best opportunities to meet Jesus Christ: they can strengthen our love for him and renew our commitment to serve him in whichever way of life he has planned for us.

If you missed the festival, you can hear the talks and other podcasts on the blog. Don't forget to check out the Facebook page to see other photos and watch the space for Invocation 2013!

Photographs: CBCEW & Lawrence Lew OP.