The YCW Centenary Mass on 13 July at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo will celebrate a movement that empowered generations of young people to live their faith boldly in the world.
The Young Christian Workers movement (YCW) played a vital role in shaping the lives of working-class youth in the Sandhurst Diocese during a time when formal education and social supports were limited, especially in country towns. For many young people who left school early to enter the workforce, YCW was a source of community, faith formation, leadership development, practical support and of course, friendship.
“The person YCW catered for probably doesn’t exist in Australia today,” said a local parishioner who was a member of YCW in the 60s. “When I was a young , most people in the Diocese left school and went to work. Country people didn’t have the opportunity to go to university, especially working-class people. The YCW catered for us, older teenagers, 17,18,19 who had left school and gone into the workforce. The YCW supported us through education, formation opportunities and helped form us at a time in our life when we were stepping into adulthood, and not much later the responsibilities of marriage and families.”
Reflecting on how times have changed and especially for youth, the parishioner noted: “People like us don’t exist now. Young people are so much more educated, but I’m not sure they are more content or fulfilled.” she suggested.
Organisers of the Mass are delighted with the response they have received from former members who will attend the Mass and the luncheon which will follow. “They know that YCW is a legacy worth remembering,” said the parishioner. “It transformed my faith from that of a childish schoolgirl into an adult faith that has been with me my whole life.”
No doubt many others have similar experiences and will show up on the day to reminisce about old times, catch up with old friends and honour the legacy of members before them.
The Mass provides a way to honour the commitment, sacrifices and achievements of the YCW community in our Diocese, many of whom helped build the faith communities and towns of our region.
All are welcome to join for the Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral and the meal at the Golden Square Hotel which will follow. Organisers ask that you please advise them of your intention to join the Mass or attend the lunch.
Mass to celebrate 100 years since Pope Pius XI blessed YCW in 1925.
11:00 a.m. Sunday 13 July
Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo
Lunch
Golden Square Hotel, Bendigo
RSVP
If you intend to join the lunch ay Golden Square Hotel, it would be helpful if you could RSVP to:
Margaret Watson on 0423 022 087 or Trisha Blanks on 0402 248 095.
