Youth ministry representatives head to Rome
To mark five years since the release of Christus Vivit, youth ministry representatives from around the globe will head to Rome for the International Congress on Youth Ministry in May, hosted by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life.
Australia will be represented by Kyle Correya from the Archdiocese of Melbourne, with a special invitation also offered to Fr Chris Ryan MGL, who will be a speaker at the Congress.
The Congress aims to explore themes drawn from Christus Vivit, a key document setting out Pope Francis’ approach to young people, faith and vocations.
Kyle is a youth leader in his local parish and an accomplished musician who recently recorded his first Christian album. He has supported Archdiocesan initiatives through leading prayer, music, and accompaniment of young leaders at the Archdiocesan Proclaim Gathering 2023 (renewal conference for parish leaders) and on pilgrimage to World Youth Day 2023 in Lisbon.
“I attend church every Sunday and provide the music for Mass at least twice a month across a number of parishes,” Kyle said.
“I’m also blessed to play music for Holy Hour on multiple occasions, as I share my story and gifts with others to inspire their faith journeys.
“I am so grateful to have been chosen to represent Australia at this Congress. I am looking forward to sharing my recent World Youth Day experience as well as my passion for music and my goal of bringing young people to the Church.”
Bishop Mykola Bychok, Australian Bishop Delegate for Youth, shared his joy at Kyle’s selection.
“With many great nominations it was a difficult discernment process,” Bishop Bychok said.
“Kyle has shown great leadership and experience working with young people and in his evangelisation efforts.
“Musicians speak a special language to young people, and he has used his gifts to share the Gospel.”
Reverend Dr Chris Ryan MGL has also been invited to be a keynote speaker at the Congress. Highly regarded in Australia and internationally as an expert in youth ministry, Fr Chris will explore the themes of missionary and synodal leadership.
“I am humbled by the invitation and the opportunity to listen to and share with youth ministry leaders from around the world,” he said.
“I am especially looking forward to learning more about the implementation of Christus Vivit globally. It has been a profound moment in our Church’s history to have a statement dedicated to young people. It is something we are yet to fully embrace and implement.”
The International Congress on Youth Ministry comes 18 months ahead of the Australian Catholic Youth Festival to be held in Melbourne in December 2025.
Kyle said he was excited for the Festival and that he hopes to connect both experiences.
“When I return, I hope to share my experience at the international youth ministry congress and invite young Catholics to Melbourne for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival in 2025,” he said. “I’m eager to hear of plans and ways I can contribute to its success.”
