Scottish Catholic Observer

Stronghold Festival, held at Craig Lodge Family House of Prayer in Dalmally, will see 100 young people attend ‘in fellowship to witness the power of faith and encounter Christ’s love for them.’

The festival, an arm of Youth 2000 UK, will take place from May 24-27 and will be opened by Bishop Brian McGee of Argyll and the Isles, with Bishop John Keenan of Paisley Dioceses also set to make an appearance.

The festival gives Catholics aged 16-35 a chance to deepen their Faith through eucharistic adoration and fellowship with one another over a weekend of camping.

Bishop McGee spoke this week of his pride in the event, and how he is looking forward to leading the opening Mass on Friday evening at 9pm.

“I’m delighted to be attending the Festival for its second year. The young people who attend seem to enjoy it and get a lot out of going,” he said.

Growth

“I think the organisers have a number of new people attending this year, so it’s great that it’s growing in size. I’m pleased that this great work is happening in the diocese because there aren’t a lot of events like this for young people to attend.”

Bishop McGee added: “Stronghold is a great way of engaging with the youth and bringing them together under the banner of Faith.

“As Pope Francis said in his publication from the Youth Synod, ‘Young people need to be given time to reflect on their lives, on what God is saying to them and to reflect on the Gospels,’ and that is what this event is doing.”

Delight in His people

A spokesperson for Stronghold Festival said: “The 2019 theme for Stronghold is ‘the Lord takes delight in his people’ from Psalm 149.

“Our three-night camping stay involves adoration, sacraments, music, talks, discussion, mountain walks and evening fun.

“Our key speakers will give talks on Marian devotion, Catholic relationships, the call to holiness and many other aspects of the Catholic Faith.

“Those who attend will be spiritually nourished and inspired to live out their Faith and bring others to Jesus.”

Speakers include Magnus Macfarlane-Barrow, CEO of Mary’s Meals, Maximillian Ford and Fr Antione Coelho of the Holy Spirit House, and author Anthony Gielty.

Tickets to Stronghold Festival cost £50. To book, visit fb.com/strongholdfestival and click Book Now.