Earlier this month, thousands of young Catholics from across the country gathered at Wembley Arena for Flame 2025, the UK’s largest Catholic youth event. Organised by CYMFed, the day was filled with moments of worship music, and inspiring talks aimed at strengthening the faith of young people and encouraging them to live out their calling with confidence. 

Fr Stephen Pritchard, Parish Priest of Our Lady’s, Gateacre, attended the event with eight young people from his parish. They travelled as part of a 70-strong group on a coach organised by Animate. They were joined by young people from across the Archdiocese, with several schools making their own journey to Flame 2025.

He highlighted the significance of communal worship and the power of seeing thousands of young people engaged in their faith. 

Fr Stephen said: “It was wonderful to be with eight young people from the parish who went to Flame and joined with over 10,000 young Catholics in Wembley Arena. 

“The theme was ‘Unstoppable’ and through music from One Hope Project and Adenike, with inputs from Bear Grylls, Guvna B, Bro Chris Patino, CAFOD, SVP, culminating with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led by Cardinal Nichols. The whole event was incredibly meaningful. The experience will stay with me for a long time.” 

For the young people from Our Lady’s, Gateacre, the day was both inspiring and unforgettable. Jada reflected: “One thing that I am taking away from Flame 25 is that my relationship with God is unstoppable. The three words that describe Flame 25 to me are uplifting, inspiring, and sacred.” Jada further shared how the experience of being with 10,000 other young Catholics was “uplifting and energising.” 

She continued: “Flame has helped my faith by reminding me that I should let the flame of my faith burn bright.” 

Another young participant, Rosie, summed up the experience as “faith, fun, and friendship.” 

Throughout the event, young people had the opportunity to take part in Eucharistic Adoration, prayer, and praise, creating meaningful moments of encounter with Christ. With performances from renowned worship artists and contributions from Catholic leaders, the day offered something for everyone. 

Flame continues to be a landmark event for young Catholics in the UK, and its impact is felt long after the day itself. As the young people who attended return to their schools, parishes, and communities, the hope is that they carry with them a renewed enthusiasm for their faith and a deeper sense of God’s presence in their lives. 

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