After a long journey we arrived at Buckfast Abbey and we were welcomed into the event hall. We began our morning with some uplifting music, performed by One Hope Project (a group of young adults who perform and compose music) which prepared us for the day ahead. Then we listened to a guest speaker, Emeka, a refugee who talked about his personal experiences which he portrays through the power of poetry and music. After, we listened to some amazing music performed by Vineyard(from Falmouth) which was followed by a scripture read by some young people from Poole.Following this, we listened to Fr Ignatius speaking in depth about this scripture and exploring the passage from Matthew 16:15 "Who do you say I am?" Then we listened to a local band, Crossbeam playing some original music.

 

After lunch, we sang along with another performance from One Hope Project, who performed a mixture of original and well-known worship songs.After this, we had an inspiring talk from Daniella Stevens who encouraged us to explore and grow in God's love. Then we enjoyed a final performance from both Vineyard and Crossbeam alongside another guest speaker, Iona Robinson, who encouraged us to spend time reflecting on our relationship with Jesus.

 

After a short break, we sang another song, directed by One Hope Project and following this we listened to some more of Emeka's journey to the UK. To conclude the day, we experienced a time of adoration in the blessed sacrament Chapel in Buckfast Abbey.

 

My personal highlight of the day was being able to speak yo one of the amazing lead vocalists from One Hope Project, Pippa Baker, where I discussed my part in the church speaking about the fact I have quite recently started playing piano and singing during Mass.

​

I felt truly inspired throughout this event and this encounter inspired me to carry on doing what I love.