St Augustine’s student reflects on the joy of Flame

Flame, the UK's largest Catholic youth conference, event took place on Saturday, 15th March at the OVO Arena Wembley in London. A group of St. Augustine’s students travelled with St. Gregory’s, Bath to the conference, and joined together with the Lasallian community at the arena – all proudly wearing our turquoise Lasallian T-shirts!

The day themed "Unstoppable: Fan the Flame of Hope," drew around 10,000 young Catholics from across England and Wales, included inspirational talks, as well as energetic live music performances from artists such as Guvna B, Lily-Jo, and the World Youth Dance Crew. Students also engaged in prayer and adoration sessions, led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols.

Our students said:

"It was very inspiring and connecting" as well as “Breath-taking”

The following article has been submitted by: Natalia K – Year 11 Student

Flame 2025

When I first heard about Kintbury, I wasn’t sure if it was for me. I knew it was a trip organised by our Catholic school, full of reflection, prayer, and meeting other students. It sounded interesting, but at the same time, I was scared—I worried about being alone, about not knowing how to open up. But from the very first day, I felt that this place was special. Everyone was welcome here, there was no judgment, no divisions—just a community. Together, we created something unique, we learned from each other, and for the first time in a long time, I felt like I could truly be myself.

After returning to school, our teacher suggested we go back to Kintbury for a so-called revision session. I thought it would be intense studying, but it turned out to be an open retreat where we could see what life there was like, how the volunteers worked, and what made this place so special. There were no tests, no pressure—just space for conversations, laughter, and reflection. That’s when everyone started talking about Flame—one of the biggest gatherings of young Catholics at Wembley Arena. I knew I had to go, not just for the event itself, but also to see my friends again and experience it all with them.

Finally, the day came and walking into Wembley Arena, the vibe was already buzzing. The lights, the music, the energy—it all felt so massive, like you were stepping into something bigger than yourself. But honestly, the best part wasn’t just the show—it was the people. I spotted so many familiar faces from Kintbury, and when we found each other in that sea of people, it was like this instant, epic reunion. Picture this: you’re in the middle of thousands of people, and suddenly you hear your name being shouted across the arena. You turn around, and there they are—your friends, running toward you with the biggest smiles. Moments like that? They stick with you forever.

The event itself? Absolutely insane. The music was next-level, the speakers were so inspiring, and the stories they shared actually made you stop and think. It wasn’t just about faith in the usual way—it was about feeling connected to something bigger, about realising you’re not alone. Thousands of other young people were there, all trying to figure things out, all searching for meaning, just like you.

Flame was more than just a concert. There were inspiring speakers, music, and prayer—everything that made young people feel like they were part of something bigger. As Pope Francis said:

“Youth ministry must be synodal; it should involve a ‘journeying together’ that values ‘the charisms that the Spirit bestows in accordance with the vocation and role of each of the Church’s members, through a process of co-responsibility’.” (Christus Vivit, 206)

And that’s exactly what I felt—that we were a community, that each of us had a role to play, and that everyone mattered.

Flame was absolutely unreal. If you weren’t there, I’m not even kidding—you missed out on something truly special.

If you ever have the chance to go to Kintbury or Flame—don’t hesitate. These are places that change people. And if I found my way there, then anyone can.

So, if you’re sitting there wondering, “Should I go next time?”—the answer is a huge YES.