The Young Adults group at St Brendan's, Shepparton is creating a vibrant community where faith and friendship intersect. At monthly Sunset Sessions, young people gather to engage in thought-provoking discussions, hear inspiring guest speakers, and explore big questions about life and faith. Emma Christy shares details. 

By Emma Christy 

At St Brendan’s Parish in Shepparton, the Young Adults group offers a welcoming space for individuals aged 18-35 to connect, grow and explore their faith. Meeting on the fourth Friday of each month in the parish’s pastoral centre, these gatherings—known as Sunset Sessions—feature inspiring guest speakers and thought-provoking discussions.

Each Sunset Session invites a guest speaker to explore deep questions of faith, share their personal testimony, and engage in open conversation with the group. Previous sessions have tackled significant topics such as:

• What does it mean to have faith in the workplace?
• Is there a right way to pray?
• How do music and faith interrelate?

Discussions are dynamic, blending insightful perspectives with personal experiences, creating a space for reflection, growth and deeper understanding.

Following each session, the group shares a meal – an opportunity to continue the conversation, strengthen friendships and foster a sense of community in a relaxed setting.

March Sunset Session with Bishop Shane

In March, we were privileged to welcome Bishop Shane as our guest speaker. We kicked off the night with a fun icebreaker: If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Most young adults answered pizza or pasta – for the variety, of course! Bishop Shane, being the critical thinker he is, opted for a two-course Japanese meal.

After this we launched into an engaging conversation on philosophy. Bishop Shane introduced us to different philosophical perspectives, challenging us to think critically about belief systems and the importance of avoiding rigid ideologies – what he called resisting the “-isms.” He explored key concepts such as the relationship between body and soul, ethical decision making, and the contrast between concrete and absolute truths. The discussion sparked deep reflection, encouraging everyone to examine their beliefs with fresh eyes.

After the talk, we continued the conversation over a shared meal of tacos, allowing for a more relaxed discussion with Bishop Shane about faith, philosophy, and the role of young adults in the Church.

Exciting Sunset Sessions Ahead

The upcoming Sunset Sessions promise more engaging discussions and inspiring guest speakers:

25 April – What Makes You Christian? with Father Adi Indra
23 May –  You Can’t Ask That: Priest Edition with Father Jackson Saunders
27 June – Father Rob Galea

… and many more exciting guests to come!

The Young Adults group at St Brendan’s continues to be a space where faith and friendship come together, helping young people navigate life’s big questions in a supportive and welcoming community. If you’re aged 18-35, you’re invited to join us anytime—come along, share a meal, and make meaningful connections.