Monsignor Frank Marriott reflects on the Young Christian Workers  (YCW) in Sandhurst 

Joining the world of YCW in 1963 was, I believe, the greatest learning experience in my life. The methodology of “See, Judge, Act,” formed much of my pastoral approach in the following years. For that, I am most grateful. The YCW has gifted the world in many ways … some of which arrived before I was born; some in my years as a Priest. YCW also introduced me to the importance of formation, formation in faith and for life. It taught me that people, all people, are capable of doing great things for the Church and Society.

YCW opened many doors for me, and for others. Some say that YCW helped them grow from babes to mature Christians. For me, I met chaplains all around this world of ours who enriched my knowledge and exposed me to ways and means of doing the apostolate. The YCW approach has been adapted by recent Popes and written into some of their recent encyclicals. Furthermore, the following appears in the third Eucharistic prayer for special needs:

“Grant that all the faithful of the Church,
Looking into the signs of the times by the light of faith,
May constantly devote themselves to the service of the Gospel.”

It gives me great joy to pray that part of this Eucharistic prayer. An aspect of Cardijn’s discovery, honoured, prayed now and for the future! Indeed, Our Common Home is a better place for the gift of the YCW.