“Let no one despise your youth but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
Every Tuesday evening, between 40-60 teenagers gather at St.John’s Cathedral, Norwich, for a weekly youth group of formation and fellowship. Its explosion in numbers from just a few committed members to upwards of 50 teenagers is a testament to how powerfully the Holy Spirit is working in this group, and how He continues to do so.
Most weeks a talk is given, often by members of the Ignite Team or by a member of their young leaders programme. These are on a broad range of topics that never shy away from the difficult questions. A four week session on Theology of the Body, entitled ‘Love vs Lust’ in May 2025 is but one example of discussing real life issues, from a Catholic perspective.
Talking about ‘the big questions’ is so crucial, equipping young people with answers and understanding. Another example of this formation was when Rachel from Rachel’s vineyard (a charity aimed to provide healing from abortion trauma) visited the group in September to talk about pro-life issues, in a reflective and loving environment.
Not only does the youth group provide spiritual and theological formation, it also engages with the community, serving the diocese and wider community. Up to 15 young people serve every week at the Tuesday 5.30 Mass. Furthermore, the young people put the gospel into action through programmes such as Operation Christmas Child. Packing shoeboxes for children in need embodies the community spirit and love that the group aims to foster. 85 shoeboxes were packed in total.
In addition to serving the community and growing in faith, youth group is a place of relaxation and fun. Games at the start of the session and sociable dinner times encourage genuine friendships to grow. From next term, a designated games master for each week is being introduced, so the fun will only continue!
The older members of the youth group, those of sixth form and university age, have also joined the recently formed ‘Enkindle’ programme, aiming to equip young people with the tools to share the Gospel and live out their faith boldly. The fruitfulness of Enkindle is due to a large extent to the youth group, which fostered strong fellowship, allowing large numbers of young people to get involved together with Enkindle. These young leaders are already putting their faith into action, by helping out with Hope (a large event held for young people across the whole Diocese), as well as many supporting the Confirmation and First Holy Communion.
I spoke to two members of the youth group who share how much of a positive impact it has had on their lives.
Simone Mathias, who joined in year 13 and now helps to lead the sessions, said, “I think the biggest blessing I received this year was being invited to youth group. It has helped me to grow so much as a person, I have learnt so much about my faith and what it truly means to live it out and put it into practice”.
Enzo, who joined in Year 11 and is now in Year 12, said, “Youth group is a place to both relax in the company of my friends and come into a deeper understanding of my relationship with God”.
Both testimonies show just how positive the youth group has been for young people, providing a place of real community, where they can grow in faith, whilst also being given the space to relax and have fun.
St John’s Youth Group is open to all highschoolers and young people under 25. Just come along any Tuesday during term time from 4.30pm – you’ll find us in the hall. Hope to see you soon.
Report by Poppy Belderbos