Ignite Team and Young Leaders Recognised

On a radiant Sunday morning, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, the 11am Mass at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist was a joyful celebration of the fruitful ministry of the Ignite Team and young leaders.

The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Peter Collins, who, at the beginning of his homily, presented the young leaders with Faith in Action Award certificates. The Faith in Action Award is an innovative programme provided by CYMFed, the Catholic Youth Ministry Federation. It recognises young people who actively live out their faith and help build the Kingdom of God in their schools and parishes. Bishop Peter presented eleven awards, ranging from Bronze to Gold. For more information about the Faith in Action Award, please visit https://faithinactionaward.co.uk/.

The young Catholics who received the award have worked tirelessly for the Kingdom this year. Their contributions have included boldly speaking about the existence of God in confirmation classes and English Speaking exams, sharing personal testimonies during First Holy Communion sessions, discussing their faith and hopes for the new pope on BBC News, and inviting friends to a growing youth group — now attended by around 50 young people. (The group meets after school on Tuesdays — do come along if you’re interested!)

These courageous and inspiring acts are a testament to the flourishing state of youth ministry in the Diocese of East Anglia, driven in large part by the young people themselves.

Following the presentation of awards, Bishop Peter delivered a compelling homily on the mystery of the Holy Trinity, fitting for the solemnity. At the conclusion of the Mass, he invited each member of the Ignite Team to the front of the sanctuary, where he presented them with a Certificate of Catholic Mission, in recognition of their year of dedicated missionary service to the diocese. The certificates, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude from the Bishop and the wider diocesan community, were received with appreciation by the team, along with a firm handshake from Bishop Peter.

The team have had a rich and fulfilling year in youth ministry. In addition to visiting primary schools, they have expanded their work with secondary-aged students through deanery and parish youth days, youth groups, confirmation preparation sessions, and school retreats. These events have been a great success, encouraging many young people in their faith journeys while deepening the team’s own relationship with Jesus.

Each team member will carry the memories of this special year of ministry in their hearts.

After the Mass, the Ignite Team and young leaders had the privilege of being photographed with Bishop Peter. This was followed by a time of fellowship and a delicious celebratory meal. It was a beautiful and joyous occasion on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity — one that will remain etched in the memories of these inspirational young Catholics.

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