A Spirit-Filled Weekend: Highlights from the SYFCA National Conference (South Australia)
- Website Admin
- Jul 24
- 4 min read
What an unforgettable weekend! The National Conference brought together young hearts, faithful souls, and vibrant communities from all over the country for three powerful days of worship, reflection, and celebration. Held with the theme of spiritual renewal and hope, this year’s conference was packed with moments that inspired, healed, and united.
Friday Night: A Call to Awareness
Watch Friday Night Highlights ( Talk 1 )
The conference opened with Talk 1: “Reading the Signs of the Times” by Bodyet Reyes. This thought-provoking session encouraged us to reflect deeply on the events and trends shaping our world and to listen for God’s voice within them. Rooted in Matthew 16:2–3, it challenged us to look beyond the surface and discern the spiritual significance of what is unfolding around us. By attentively observing the signs of the times, we are called to grow in spiritual awareness and respond with faith, wisdom, and purpose in today’s rapidly changing world.
The night closed with a Mini Praisefest, and the room lit up with joyful worship. It was just the beginning of what would be a grace-filled weekend.
Saturday: Encounter, Reflection & Celebration
Watch Saturday Highlights (Talk 2, Talk 3, Praise Parade & Social Night)
Saturday morning began with a spirit-filled Praise and Worship session, setting the tone for Talk 2: “Who Needs Reconciliation” by Fr. Olek Stirrat, a powerful and heartfelt reminder of God’s infinite mercy and our ongoing call to return to Him.
In this talk, Fr. Olek explored the deep human struggle with sin and our universal need for reconciliation with God, with others, and within ourselves. Drawing from Romans 7 and 2 Corinthians 5:19, he reflected on the inner conflict we all face, the desire to do good but falling short and how true healing and restoration can only be found through Christ. We were reminded that God, through Jesus, has already reconciled the world to Himself and has entrusted us with the mission of reconciliation. The talk challenged us to embrace this call and become living instruments of peace and forgiveness in a broken world.
The session flowed into a deeply moving Pray-over and Confession, where many experienced profound personal breakthroughs and encounters with God’s grace.
Midday featured Talk 3: “Called to a New Life in Christ” by Toni Pace, a powerful invitation to fully embrace the life Christ offers by living out His teachings in today’s challenging world. Drawing from Colossians 3:1–17 and 2 Corinthians 5:17, Toni highlighted that true discipleship requires personal transformation—letting go of old ways and embracing a life rooted in compassion, humility, and love. As new creations in Christ, we are called to be genuine witnesses of His grace, both in our everyday lives and within the wider community.
After lunch, the atmosphere turned festive with the Praise Parade and Banner Presentations, as each state brought colour, pride, and joy to the stage. The energy carried over into the afternoon sports activities, building friendships and plenty of laughter.
As evening came, hearts were stilled again in the sacred silence of Adoration, creating a beautiful moment of encounter with Christ.
Then came one of the most anticipated parts of the weekend: Social Night! From musical numbers to themed dances, each state showcased its creativity and talent. There was joy, community, and pure celebration.
Sunday: Sent Forth with Hope
Watch Sunday Mass & Closing Highlights ( Talk 4 & Mass / Awards / PraiseFest )
The final day opened with a heartfelt Praise and Worship session, setting the tone for the last talk of the conference: “Pilgrims of Hope” by Bobby Mathew.
It was a powerful and timely message that called us to rekindle our commitment to our community’s vision and mission as “Families in the Holy Spirit renewing the face of the Earth.” As we journey toward the Great Jubilee Year 2025, Bobby reminded us through 2 Corinthians 5:17–20 that we are new creations in Christ, entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. As Christ’s ambassadors, we are called to walk in hope and be active participants in His mission of healing, renewal, and transformation in the world.
After a short break, we gathered for the Holy Mass, the spiritual summit of our journey together. It was a time of thanksgiving, unity, and recommitment.
The weekend wrapped up with awards, announcements, and the joyful reveal of the next NATCON venue. Finally, the Closing Praisefest sent everyone off with full hearts and reignited faith.
A Word of Thanks
To everyone who served, led, shared, and participated, thank you. This weekend wouldn’t have been the same without your presence and prayer. Whether you came seeking renewal or simply to be part of something bigger than yourself, we pray that God touched your heart in a new way.
Until We Meet Again…
This National Conference reminded us that we are never alone in our faith. We are pilgrims, walking together, hoping together, growing together. May the fire that was lit in your heart this weekend continue to burn brightly in your homes, local communities and everyday lives.
See you at the next NATCON!
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