Staff and pupils from Saint Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe were delighted to take part in Convivio 2011, the international congress for Catholic youth.

Twenty two pupils from Years 9 and 10 attended the two day congress at Loreto Sixth Form College where they joined together with pupils from a number of Catholic schools from the Manchester area. The word “Convivio” means “to get together” or “to hang out” which was exactly what the pupils did.

The theme of the congress was “What difference can you make with your life?” and this was explored in a number of ways combining talks, group work, team building, games, singing, reflection, prayer and a final concelebrated Mass led by Bishop Brian.

A particular highlight of the congress was an inspirational talk given by Pascal Uche, the 21 year old student who greeted Pope Benedict XVI after Mass at Westminster Cathedral during the Pope’s recent visit to the UK.

“It was a time for prayer and celebration, conversation and reflection,” explained Mr Wiktor Daron, Head Teacher at Saint Paul’s. “The pupils all left the event challenged to think how they could make a positive contribution to the world.”