A cluster Parish Youth Group is regularly attracting an incredible number of over 80 young people every week, with more always welcome.

The St Carlo Acutis Youth Group, which in essence runs three sessions for varying age groups, is a collaboration between Our Lady of the Wayside, Olton Friary and St Augustine’s churches in the Solihull area. 

It provides a welcoming safe space every Friday during term-time for young people to grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and take part in fun and enriching activities.

The group spent the whole of September celebrating the canonisation of their patron Carlo Acutis and the occasion had such an impact on a year 6 pupil, Thomas, that he chose St Carlo Acutis for his confirmation name.

Thomas, who loves attending the youth group and declares it the highlight of his week, has also developed his own website dedicated to the new Saint

The youth group has also been invited to make regular contributions on Radio Maria England. 

Ray McNally, youth group chairman, explains how the group runs and is now in essence divided into three.

“We have a junior one (for years 4 and 5) that started earlier this year and is located at Our Lady of the Wayside. Thanks to the trinity of support between school, community and parish there are around 30 children attending every Friday.

“The senior youth group (year 6 upwards) moved to Olton Friary in September last year having outgrew the parish hall and facilities of Our Lady of the Wayside. This group are involved in formation - generally linked to the liturgical year.

“Then slightly older young people in years 8, 9 and 10 separate off after some leisure time and have their own discussions and debates. Recent topics have included LGBT, Palestine, assisted suicide, abortion - pro-life.

“These topics are chosen by the young people themselves, challenging and sometimes very controversial topics. There are lots of differing opinions, but our safe space provides an environment whereby all opinions are respected and valued. Each topic is led by either two young people or alternating with a youth leader leading the topic of choice each week. 

“At the end of each discussion we do share what the Catholic Church opinion is - as a guide and reference.” 

Ray added during October, the month of the Holy Rosary, the rosary was also a focus.

The youth group, which overall has some 16 youth leaders, is proving to be a great asset to parish life with some inspirational and moving stories of faith and growth. 

Anyone interested in the youth group can email Ray for more information [email protected] 

A St Carlo Acutis youth group website is currently under development.
 
Photographs: Enjoying a recent flower festival at Olton Friary with floral displays created by the youth group. Followed by a special blessing from Bishop David Evans (main photograph).