Last Friday 28 March, Ms Shaw, Sr Lawrence and Mr Sammut accompanied a group of students who attended ‘Encounter’ at St Andrew’s Parish Werribee. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet with other youth who share the same zeal of faith and encounter Jesus in prayer, fellowship, food and fun. Bradley Vincent 8 Barak and Keisha Cortes 10 Barak share their experiences:

"I loved Encounter night, especially when Rose came to talk about C.O.T.S. (Christmas On The Streets), an organization she has been running for nine years, starting at the age of 20. At the end of the night, we had the opportunity for adoration and there was also the sacrament of reconciliation (confession). I enjoyed Encounter night and cherished the chance to socialise and make new friends and connections with people from our school whom I did not know, as well as meeting others from different schools."
~ Bradley Vincent 8 Barak

The night began with a shared dinner, where everyone gathered in the dining room to eat together and connect. This time allowed us to get to know one another better before the evening's activities began.
Following dinner, Emma, the MC for the night, brought everyone together to set up a game of Pictionary. Participants divided into groups of eight, with each team electing a leader responsible for selecting a word and drawing it for their teammates to guess. Our team, The Chocolate Makers, inspired by our leader Timothy, finished our drawings first and were won as the best artists.
Next, we were introduced to Rose, the founder of Christmas On The Streets (COTS), who shared her powerful testimony. She spoke about how she once felt lost, believing she had found her calling only to be let down repeatedly. Eventually, she discovered her purpose—helping those in need within her own community and reminded us that we all have our own gifts.
Another speaker, Vatale, shared his journey of faith, reflecting on how his grandmother’s passing affected his faith in God. His message served as a reminder that, even in hardship, God always has a plan.
The night concluded with adoration in the church, where praise and worship music filled the space, and reconciliation was available at the back of the church. This sacred time was deeply emotional, offering a moment of personal reflection and connection with God. Encounter was an incredible experience one that not only strengthened our faith but also deepened our friendships. Being surrounded by a community so deeply rooted in their beliefs made the night truly unforgettable.
~ Keisha Cortes 10 Barak