MARTON Almost 200 people from around New Zealand descended on Marton for 10 days for the annual Hearts Aflame Catholic summer school. The attendance was the highest since the initiative was launched 19 years ago, and included a large contingent of 17 from Mt Maunganui parish. Bishop Peter Cullinane of Palmerston North presided over the January 8 opening Mass at Nga Tawa Diocesan College.

The school programme began with a weekend retreat led by Fr Dominique Faure of the Community of St John. Fr Faure is based in India and helps run an orphanage for children and teenagers with Aids. He was also asked by Mother Teresa to serve as spiritual director to her sisters the Missionaries of Charity.

In the Year for Priests, the theme of the retreat was Christs priesthood.

Mass and prayers of the Church shaped each days timetable, including attending a wide selection of lectures and time set aside for stillness, discussion, fun and laughter. Topics covered over the 10 days included ethics, sacraments, St Peter and the Eucharist. Workshops included presentations on icons, Ignatian prayer and music for liturgy.

Presenters of the sessions included priests and religious from throughout the country, reflecting the national flavour of the students, as well as from lay people.

Planning has already begun for next years Hearts Aflame, which will be held in Christchurch.