Sherbrooke, Canada. Since October 2025, a Claretian-led youth initiative at St. Charles Garnier Parish in the Secteur des Nations, Sherbrooke, Canada, has been accompanying 30 to 35 young people aged 12 to 20 through weekly gatherings that combine recreation, faith formation, and community life. Led by Fr. Reegan Soosai, CMF, and Fr. Olivier Nkwimi, CMF, the program responds to the growing need to reconnect youth with the Church in a welcoming and consistent environment.
Meeting every Saturday, the group brings together young people from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Africa, Iraq, and Latin America. Activities include games, shared meals, discussions, and moments of prayer such as Lectio Divina. Despite their differences, participants are united by a growing sense of belonging and a deepening relationship with God.
The visible transformation among participants was noted. Initially hesitant to engage, many now actively participate in conversations, prayer, and group activities. The programme also addresses real-life challenges, encouraging youth to reflect on situations such as peer pressure, exclusion, and moral decision-making, fostering values of solidarity, forgiveness, and courage.
One participant, Santiago Bobbia, described the group as “a place of belonging,” where friendships are built and values are lived concretely through shared experiences.
As the initiative continues to grow, organizers are considering expanding into age-based groups. The experience in Sherbrooke is also connected to broader Claretian youth efforts, including a group in Montréal and a Latino community in Sherbrooke led by Joanna, with support from Fr. Percy, CMF. A joint gathering is planned in Montréal, reflecting the vitality of this emerging network.
This initiative highlights the Claretian commitment to accompany young people, offering spaces where faith, friendship, and personal growth can flourish.
Source: claretians.org
