More than 700 students came together to experience Jesus’ invitation to live ‘life to the full’ at the annual 10:10 Conference at Waterview in Bicentennial Park on Wednesday 13 September.
The conference is part of the 10:10 Project, a Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) youth-ministry initiative that helps deepen student understanding and appreciation of the Catholic Church’s teachings on the human person and relationships.
The theme for this year’s conference, “I came that they may have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10), saw students learn about and discuss healthy relationships, and understand how they might embrace the gifts God has given us all.
Students heard from a number of keynote speakers, including Bishop Danny Meagher, Fr Ben Saliba, Natasha Pinto, Chris Lee, Bernadette Toohey (MGL); and participated in Q&A’s, discussion groups, musical worship, reconciliation and adoration.
Video: Ministry Digital Media
Dominique Farah, Education Officer: Church Engagement at SCS, said it was inspiring to see so many students open and curious to learn about respectful relationships from the Catholic lens.
“It was a sign of hope that young people can be instruments of change when they feel better equipped to do so after hearing input from experts in the field,” she said.
“Bishop Danny Meagher and Fr Ben Saliba challenged them with hard truths about the way society and culture presents us with false truths that actually diminish our value, worth and sense of purpose” – Dominique Farah
“They pointed out how Church teaching and tradition can offer us true happiness if we are open to it and willing to make a change.”
Photos: Captured Frames Photography
Launched in 2020, the 10:10 Project encourages students to reflect on the Church’s teachings on the human person and vocation, with a strong emphasis on marriage and family.
Under the guidance of Anthony Cleary, Director: Mission & Identity at SCS, the project is SCS’ response to consent education.
It is grounded in the truth, beauty and goodness of the Catholic faith, drawing on teachings from the Theology of the Body to help young people know their worth and purpose so that they are loving with a divine love
The project began with just three schools in 2020 and has swelled to 20 in 2023.
During the program, students attend a series of school-based workshops twice a term and Parish-based events once a term, led by qualified facilitators, during which they are encouraged to look at the world through a faith-based lens.
In November this year, Year 10 students participating in the 10:10 Project for 2023 will embark on a two-day retreat at the Benedict XVI Retreat Centre in Grose Vale.
There will be more than 100 students attending the retreat, which will include various guest presenters, Mass, prayer and reconciliation.
Term 4 will also see continuation of the final school sessions, and three 10:10 Youth Nights based on outreach to the elderly.
