‘STEW AND STOTTIE’ GOES DOWN A TREAT

Friday 15th February saw the Youth Ministry Village ‘packed to the doors’ as over 170 people from the local parish communities flocked to the YMT base to enjoy the ‘Stew and Stottie’ experience.

The evening had been put together by the whole team to help introduce the Youth Village to the local community, some of whom were frankly curious to find out what went on there and who the team were. Tickets had sold like the proverbial ‘hot cakes’ and within a few weeks all 170 had gone.

The Team were blessed with good, dry weather for the occasion (not bad for the Consett area in February!) and a good vibe was set by the avenue of twinkling fairy lights which lit up the driveway for the visitors.

Fr. Dermott welcomed everyone to the evening, which began with a lively music set from an impromptu Team ‘band’ comprising Maria, Sheila, Chris, Ben, Becky, Bernie and Tony (R.), ably assisted by the talented Laura Bell on saxophone.

The guests then took part in a varied five-round quiz co-ordinated by Xavier which provoked fevered discussion on the tables, and was eventually won by the ‘Scouts for the Chicken Noodle Soup’ team. At the break all enjoyed a delicious hot beef stew and stottie, courtesy of caterer Richard Salkeld.

The evening gathered pace with a rousing rock ‘n roll medley delivered by the multi-talented Ronan Johnston and his wife Joanne, and was brought to an excellent finale with a set of contemporary favourites from local musician and former team member, John Nelson.

The whole event was an outstanding success, giving an opportunity to the nearby parishes of St. Mary’s, Blackhill, Our Lady of the Rosary, Shotley Bridge, St. Patrick’s, Consett, Grove St. Pius, and Our Blessed Lady & St. Joseph, Brooms, to enjoy a friendly and entertaining night out together, and building positive links with the local community.

If any deanery would be interested in coming to The Youth Village for a similar event, please give the Youth Ministry Team a ring.

YOUTH COUNCIL CHOOSE LIFE!

Despite the heavy snow, 45 members of the Youth Council safely arrived in Ushaw College for the annual residential at the beginning of February. 

Following on from their recent experience of Sr. Helen Prejean, the group adopted as the theme ‘Choose Life’. 

Amid snowball fights, toast and ice breakers, Friday evening was a chance for the group to explore the image and paradox of the cross, whilst also celebrating the feast of Candlemas.

Saturday night was an enriching opportunity for the older section of the council to receive an insight into Ignatian spirituality led by resident Ushaw lecturer Scott Opermann.