Antioch 2025
Another Antioch camp is in the books, and what a weekend it was. With record numbers and an exceptional keynote speaker, this year's September gathering at Woodend proved to be one of the best Antioch experiences yet.
115 campers, along with their dedicated leaders, came together for three unforgettable days of faith, friendship, and fun. Participants aged 14 to 18 immersed themselves in Antioch's hallmark mix of dynamic keynote talks, engaging small group discussions, and deeply moving moments
of worship, prayer, and encounter with the Sacraments — especially in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Our keynote speaker, former South Islander Br John Paul Schryvers MGL, travelled from Melbourne to lead the camp through the theme "Sure and Steadfast Anchor," inspired by the Jubilee Year. His heartfelt messages invited young people to find hope and stability in Christ, even amid life's challenges. The Saturday morning session based around the call of Jesus to get into the boat with him was one that left a tangible energy in the room and a lasting impact on participants.
Alongside the spiritual depth, campers enjoyed all the classic Antioch highlights: great food, lively social times, and of course, the ever-popular messy games. This helped grow a camp community who started as strangers, but ended up as anything but. Workshops and interactive sessions offered opportunities to reflect personally and creatively on faith, while spontaneous moments created memories that will last well beyond the weekend.
Reflecting on the weekend, Camp Director Mark Currie mused,
"Every year, Antioch reminds us what's possible when young people encounter Jesus and community in a real and joyful way. Seeing a group of young people worship and grow together was incredibly special. The energy, the openness, and the sense of God's presence were something special."
Plans are already under way for Antioch 2026, with organisers dreaming even bigger and aiming to welcome even more young people into this transformative experience.
