From 30 November to 2 December, a joyful group of young people, leaders, clergy, and religious from the Diocese of Darwin travelled with Bishop Charles to Melbourne for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF). Their journey began with prayerful preparation in their schools and a special travel blessing from Bishop Emeritus Eugene at the Darwin Airport.
Soon after arriving, the group joined over 6,000 young Catholics from across Australia for the Pilgrim Walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral to the Melbourne Convention Centre. A deeply moving highlight for our Darwin pilgrims was the honour of helping carry the World Youth Day Cross and Icon—an experience connecting them to the wider Church and its global mission.
At the festival, the Diocese of Darwin is proudly represented through its exhibition booth: “Christ Calls, so does the Territory – Join the Adventure.” This presence invites young people to consider vocations in priesthood, religious life, Catholic Education, and CatholicCare NT, encouraging service in the Northern Territory.
For our pilgrims, this journey is far more than travel. It is a step of faith and hope, a response to Christ’s call to grow, serve, and witness His love in our Church and our communities.
