A Charism of Service – helping out at the FIESTA

As many of you will be aware, eight members of the school community will be travelling to Lourdes this year as part of the Diocesan Lourdes Youth Service Group, more commonly known simply as the Redshirts, for reasons which will probably be pretty obvious once you see them in action!

The charism of the Redshirts is love through service… the group are invited to serve others and to take an active role in the Lourdes pilgrimage, and to reflect on their faith as they do. In short, it’s a formula which works a treat.

The diocesan youth adviser, Ray Mooney, who conceived the idea of the Redshirts back in 2004 is trying now to extend the charism of service and therefore to get young people more and more involved in the life of the diocese. For this reason, Redshirts are invited to come along to diocesan events and help out.

One such event was the diocesan Fiesta this Sunday (June 14th). The Fiesta is an annual event for those with learning difficulties and those who look after them. The day is a very social one, including Mass with Bishop Kieran and lots of fun and games. We were especially blessed with beautiful weather and a lovely location in St. Joseph’s School, Cranleigh.

Three students from the school community came for the day, along with Mr. Regan our Chaplain, who is one of the leaders with the Youth Service Group. Their presence was very much appreciated, and all are excited ahead of the 2009 Lourdes pilgrimage, which is now only five weeks away.

Attached is a photo of the entire group of Redshirts who attended, together with Mr. Regan and Ray Mooney.