SONfest ’09 Recap!

Written by David Patterson, pilgrim aged 21

SONfest ’09 took place this year at Holy Trinity Secondary School in Courtice, and
was organized by St. Therese of Lisieux Parish in Courtice and the Youth Office.

SONfest is a weekend full of music, prayer, talks, discussion groups, games and camping.  Before my experience at SONfest, I was skeptical and nervous to go to this event.  It is evident that the “world” does not accept a person following a Christian way of life.  Matthew 10:22 says, “And you will be hated by all for My Namesake; but he who has persevered to the end will be saved.” 

Throughout my life, people have always challenged my beliefs as a Catholic.  Not only was every question answered on this weekend, but I feel as though I got my faith and my life back.  It was an incredible experience meeting people from across Ontario and other countries who have the same struggles and beliefs as myself. 

SONfest is a huge production put on solely by volunteers because of their love for their Saviour.  Special thanks to our knowledgeable and humorous Bishop Nicola De Angelis, Father Norbert who started SONfest six years ago, and the priests who administered the Sacrament of Reconciliation and celebrated the Mass.  The music was aimed towards the youth in our Diocese in that there were drums, guitars, piano and the electric guitar.  Seeing people, my age, dance before the Lord was amazing to see in itself because they weren’t ashamed of what the world thought of them.  The singers enhanced the experience of SONfest.  It is a well-known fact that when you sing, you pray twice. 

Joe Farris was a guest speaker at SONfest.  Every aspect of my faith that I doubted was answered through his talks.  You could tell that God was speaking right through him.  He said before he left that this experience will either have made your life better or not changed you at all.  The experience made my life better.  As I walk out into the world, I feel I have a team of people supporting me in my journey.  SONfest is truly a blessing from God and should not be missed.  I promise that if you give Jesus Christ a chance to come into your life, He will.  I know that there will be struggles in my walk with Christ, however, I know that He is always there for me.  If you want to experience God, come to SONfest!  You will not regret it.  I have picked up my Cross; the question is, are you ready to do the same?  God Bless.

1 Timothy 4:10 “We have set our hope on the living God.”