The Youth Vocation Animation Mass took place at Olton Friary on the 19th of September, organized by the Carlo Acutis Youth Leaders. This inspiring event was a collaborative effort by the cluster of parishes: St Augustine, Wayside, St George & St Theresa, and Olton Friary.

The initiative, led by the youth leaders, was a great success with over 100 young people in attendance. The youth took active roles in the liturgy—forming a magnificent youth choir, serving at the altar, reading the Scriptures, leading the bidding prayers, and creating a wonderful visual display that added depth to the celebration.

The principal celebrant was Fr Tobias, who delivered an engaging and thought-provoking homily on the meaning and importance of vocation. He was joined by Fr Austin Hughes, Fr Dominic Kavanagh, Fr Andrew Franklin and Fr Biju Antony scj as co-celebrants, adding to the richness of the celebration.

Following the Mass, everyone gathered in the hall for refreshments, enjoying not just spiritual nourishment but also physical sustenance and fellowship.
The event was an eye-opening experience for many of the young attendees, helping them to reflect on their own vocational journey and consider how God might be calling them in their lives.

A huge thank you goes out to all the youth leaders and volunteers who worked tirelessly to organize such a meaningful and well-coordinated event. It was a true testament to the vitality and dedication of the Carlo Acutis Youth and the wider parish community.

Fr Biju Antony SCJ, Parish Priest , Olton Friary.