Archbishop Vincent Nichols has told Young Christian Workers (YCW) that they make a “vital contribution towards building a more fair and just society”. YCW members from around England and Wales gathered at Westminster Cathedral on 1 May, the feast of their patron, St Joseph the Worker, to hear the Archbishop say they have “an important role to play in exploring and sharing faith”. During a lively mass where young musicians played a leading role, he thanked them for being “vibrant witnesses to faith” and urged them to “be ready to give the Pope our full support” when Pope Benedict XVI visits Britain in September.

Danny Curtin, the outgoing National President was warmly thanked by Archbishop Nichols for his five years of dedicated service and a welcome was given to Emma Stradling, who takes over the role this month. Speaking at the end of mass, Danny Curtin said YCW had given him “the best preparation for life” and it was “a true treasure in the Church in all the 90 years since its foundation”. He added that YCW “gives young people a chance to find a method to live their lives and see how their faith fits into it”.

Abbot Christopher Jamison of Worth Abbey, which has a YCW resource base, was there to support the YCW leadership. “I have great admiration for the YCW mission for young people which enables the church to stand up for youth” he said. YCW works with small groups, using a ‘See-Judge-Act’ process, helping young people to serve, educate and represent other young people. In all, twelve priests connected to YCW work concelebrated the Mass.

A colourful rally was held outside afterwards and a new ‘Stand up for Dignity’ campaign launched. Danny Curtin highlighted YCW’s outreach to 16-30 year-olds in UK who are coping with financial hardship, unemployment and poverty. Anna (18), who had travelled to the event from Cardiff, told the audience in the Cathedral piazza that “four years ago I was not involved in anything and never thought I could make a difference in the world, but all that changed when I joined YCW”. She received a loud cheer after explaining that her YCW group in Cardiff is now involved in a youth poverty campaign and an anti-violence project in local schools.

Chris, 18, from Filey in Middlesbrough Diocese, was one of the young people who received the badge from the Archbishop, commissioning him as a new member of YCW. “It was a fantastic experience. I’ve never been to Westminster before. It was amazing. Receiving the badge from the Archbishop, it was, like, amazing. Now I’m a full member of YCW.”

Information about YCW can be found at website www.ycwimpact.com

Ellen Teague