News

Approximately 220 middle school students and adults participated in Jamboree 2008, a Diocesan Youth Ministry program for six to eighth graders. This year’s theme was “Brought to Life in the Spirit,” with each event bringing to light the fact that the Holy Spirit of God is within each, constantly present to help us live a faith-filled life in Christ.

The program included five, fifteen minute stations or sessions that each participant passed through. They included Sacraments and Gifts of the Spirit, The Spirit in Music, The Spirit in Scripture, Prayer Garden, and Vocations, which was presented by Father Bernard Shlesinger, Diocesan Director of Vocations. During the Prayer Garden, bushes were planted that will be part of the new Stations of the Cross Garden being established at Short Journey Center, where the event was held. The Stations will be “planted” in October at Back to Earth, a Diocesan youth event for students in grades 9-12.

In addition time was spent raising awareness of the Invisible Children program, an organization designed to “improve the quality of life for war affected children.” It provides “access to quality education, enhanced learning environments and innovative economic opportunities for the community.”

The day long Jamboree concluded with the celebration of Mass, with the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge presiding. Following the liturgy and closing of the event, Bishop Burbidge blessed the college aged volunteers on their upcoming end-of-semester exams, for which they were most grateful.