Columban Missionaries ACYF team (left - right); Hany Shawky, Columban Fr Francis Xavier La Aung, Noa Tuivunilagi, Maha Shawky, Assunta Arena, Rita Salama and Adi Mariana Waqa. - Photo: Assunta Arena
The Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) was a grace-filled, energising and truly memorable experience for our small but dedicated Columban team. Over three vibrant days, our booth became a lively hub where faith, culture and mission came together - drawing young people into meaningful encounters, joyful conversations and deeper reflection on the call to live the Gospel in today’s world. Throughout the festival, we witnessed a renewed sense of hope as young people approached our space with curiosity, openness and enthusiasm to learn about the Columban mission.
One of the main attractions at our booth was the Spinning Wheel and Scripture Quiz, which quickly became a favourite among the youth. Participants eagerly tested their knowledge of the Old and New Testaments, celebrating both the challenge and the fun of engaging with Scripture. These activities created a natural starting point for deeper dialogue about faith, discipleship and the ways young people are called to witness to Christ in their everyday lives. It was heartening to see the smiles, laughter and confidence with which many of them shared their faith stories and asked thoughtful questions about mission.
We were also privileged to offer a cultural experience through the Fijian Masi activity, beautifully presented by our Regional Partnership Coordinator, Adi Mariana Waqa and the Fiji Peace, Ecology and Justice Coordinator, Noa Tuivunilagi. Rooted in the rich cultural traditions of Fiji, this interactive workshop invited young people to reflect on creation, community and the resilience of Pacific peoples as they face environmental and social challenges. Through storytelling, art and shared dialogue, we highlighted how Columban missionaries accompany vulnerable communities in Fiji and throughout the world - especially those affected by natural disasters, climate change, conflict, or poverty. Many young people expressed appreciation for learning not only about Fijian culture but also about the global dimension of Columban mission.
A significant contribution to the festival came from the interreligious dialogue panel, featuring Columban Fr Patrick McInerney, Irene Baik from Catholic Mission and Bishop Gregory Homeming. Their conversation offered powerful insights into the importance of dialogue as a path toward peace, understanding and mutual respect in an increasingly diverse and divided world. The panel drew a large audience of young people who were eager to explore how interfaith engagement is grounded in Catholic teaching and lived out in Columban ministry.
We were blessed to have Fr Francis Xavier La Aung with us - a Columban priest serving in Fiji and originally from Myanmar. His presence drew significant interest from youth who wanted to hear his personal vocation journey and learn how faith carried him across cultures and continents into mission. His gentle and humble witness resonated deeply with many.
We also had the privilege of welcoming Columban Fr George Hogarty, who joined us for a full day at the festival. Fr George spent time meeting young people, sharing stories from Columban mission work and offering insights into the challenges and hopes of the communities we accompany around the world. His presence added great depth to our booth and allowed many youth to hear firsthand what it means to live a missionary vocation in today’s world.
Our participation was greatly enriched by the talents and dedication of our team members.
Assunta Arena, our Multimedia Coordinator, did exceptional work capturing the voices of young participants. Through video reflections, she recorded their feedback, impressions and moments of learning - creating a powerful visual record of the festival’s impact on their lives.
Rita Salama warmly managed our souvenir store, ensuring that every visitor felt welcomed and connected to the Columban story through both hospitality and meaningful conversation.
We are also deeply grateful to the other congregations and youth leaders who supported us by encouraging their groups to join our activities and spend time at our booth. Their collaboration enriched the atmosphere of community and helped create a space where the young Church could gather, learn and celebrate together.
Our sincere thanks also go to the organisers of the festival, whose outstanding planning and professionalism resulted in a remarkable, well-coordinated event. Their hard work created the environment in which these meaningful encounters were possible.
Though we were a small team, we felt strongly that the Lord was with us - guiding, strengthening and doing the rest. Every conversation, every shared moment and every spark of interest felt touched by grace. I was honoured to work alongside such a committed and joyful Columban team. Their passion transformed our booth into a place of learning, laughter, cultural sharing and mission awareness.
The festival reminded us once again that the Spirit is alive in the hearts of our young people and that the mission of Christ continues through their desire for justice, peace and meaningful engagement with the world.
Maha Shawky, Oceania Regional Business Manager.
Listen to "Our Columban Experience at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival"
Related links
- Read more from The Far East - January/February 2026
