High School, Lasallian Volunteering and Youth Ministry

I’m Josh, I first became part of the Lasallian community when I started Year 7 at St James College in Bentleigh East. Little did I know that those formative years of high school would help shape not only my high school experience but, in the years following school. In Year 10, I was privileged to visit Wirrimanu (Balgo) which broadened my perspectives of the diverse Lasallian community that I am a part of. Once graduated from school, I moved to western Sydney, in the Bankstown community where I worked with yourtown and Lasalle Catholic College, Bankstown.

In 2018, I returned to Melbourne to begin a science degree, and I joined the Youth Ministry Team at St Bede’s College, Mentone where I currently still work. I live with my parents, four siblings and our two cats, Teddy and Smudge. When I’m not working, I like to go to Wilson’s Prom, walk my cats or go for a run!

My role as a Youth Minister over the years has ensured that I have been able to participate in a wide range of activities and experiences. I have enjoyed getting involved in some of the larger district events, such as Camp Lasalle and Lasallian Youth Gatherings. These have been wonderful opportunities to meet amazing people from around the district and hear about the awesome work they do for young people in their communities.

Walking alongside Lasallian Youth Leaders through their later years of schooling is rewarding. Together, we facilitate and coordinate retreat days for junior students. Retreat programs enable students to take a step back, relax and reflect. I love the opportunities that retreats present for community and the chances to see students step out of their comfort zone or engage and discuss issues that are important for them.

Youth Ministry at Mentone has an ever-changing nature. Over the years, despite being in the same role it constantly changes. It feels different to how I first started. Depending on the needs of the school community, I might find myself in a busy retreat delivery season, joining camps, filming, and editing video messages or even simply being present in the classroom.

I’ve learned so much from my time so far here at Mentone! I feel like I have learned a lot about myself, who I am and what I am passionate about. The value of education and community continues to astound me throughout various challenges and highlights of life. I’ve learned that it is important to build relationships to ensure a wide-ranging approach to care, ministry and support of young people.

With just a few weeks left of a huge school year, I am looking forward to a break over the warmer months and kicking off the 2022 school year with the Lasallian Student Leadership Seminar. Ultimately, with another year of Youth Ministry almost done, I am most looking forward to spending time in community with teachers, Lasallian Youth Leaders, students, and those from around the Lasallian Community – there’s always something to learn!