Encounter is our youth ministry arm, designed for young people to hang out, make new friends, have fun, and grow closer to God. From games and music to food and activities, there’s something for everyone.
Our youth ministry programs provide meaningful, age-appropriate opportunities for children, teenagers, and young adults to grow in faith, friendship, and community.
Encounter Kids gives primary school children a place to belong and grow in their faith during their early years.
Each Sunday in school term, Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered at St Agnes’ Church. At the beginning of Mass, children aged 4 to 12 are invited forward for a blessing before moving to their own space, where they hear the Word of God shared in a way that is engaging and age appropriate.
Each Friday in school term, students in years 5 and 6 meet at the St Agnes’ Community Hub from 5:30 to 7:30pm, where they join Encounter Youth for dinner and games while also having their own space to explore the Gospel in engaging, age-appropriate ways that help them grow in faith and belonging.
Encounter Youth is a youth group for high school students, offering a place to belong, grow in faith, and build lasting friendships.
Each Friday in school term, teens from across the Port Macquarie and Hastings gather at the St Agnes’ Community Hub from 5:30 to 7:30pm for food, fun, fellowship, and formation.
On the third Sunday of each month, the Encounter Youth Band and Children’s Choir lead the music at the 5pm youth and family Mass. Interested in joining? Simply come along to practice at 4pm at St Agnes’ Church or get in touch with our Music Coordinator to find out more.
Encounter Young Adults is a ministry for young adults, offering a welcoming space to explore and live out the Catholic faith.
Every Thursday from 6pm, young adults from all walks of life come together in Port Macquarie for Bible study, followed by a shared meal at local restaurants.
Beyond Thursday nights, smaller brotherhood and sisterhood groups meet regularly for deeper connection, and there are also plenty of social gatherings throughout the year. Whether you’re new to faith or looking to grow alongside others, Encounter Young Adults is a place to belong.
- Mia Lawrence, Youth Leader
For more information about any of our Encounter groups, or to find out how you can get involved and support, please reach out to our Youth Coordinator on 0403 892 813, or by completing an enquiry form.
St Agnes’ Catholic Parish acknowledges the Birpai people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work, and serve. We acknowledge their deep connection to this land, its waters, skies, and stories, nurtured with wisdom, care, and resilience for countless generations. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
