Young people celebrate at Rise Up event in Norwich

Young people from across the diocese gathered in the Narthex at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist on November 11 for an evening of music, talks and prayer at the Rise Up event. Adam Dodd reports.

Hosted by the Ignite Team, Rise Up was intended as a diocesan celebration ahead of the Feast of Christ the King on November 26, which coincided with World Youth Sunday.

The event began with praise and worship music from the YFC Band, followed by an

introduction to Operation Christmas Child and the important work it performs for children

facing poverty and hardship throughout the world from Mark Watkins.

The keynote speech was given by Deacon Anthony Asomugha, who talked about his experiences at World Youth Day 2023 and Pope Francis’ message to young Catholics at that event.

Hamish MacQueen, head of the Diocesan Youth Service, was next to speak, emphasising the importance of parish initiatives on World Youth Sunday to celebrate young Catholics and the contributions they can and will make to the future of the Church.

Bishop Peter Collins then took questions on a range of topics from young people attending the event.

Rise Up concluded with a Vigil Mass in the cathedral led by Bishop Peter and an evening meal, with music provided by Oscar Lyons – a student at St Benedict’s School in Bury St Edmunds.

One catechist commented “It was great to see the event attended by so many young people. We hope that it will give them an awareness of the importance of being open about their faith and the vital role they all have to play in the future of the Church.”

Pictured above is Mark Watkins, who works with Operation Christmas Child.

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