After Flame 2025, which took place in the famous Wembly OVO Arena with interesting speakers such as Bear Grylls and performances from groups such as World Youth Dance Crew, we have received lots of feedback from young people of the parish. For those who we not able to attend, here is some impressions from two young people that came which we would like to share with you!
“Attending the Flame 2025 concert was a great experience that left me energized and entertained. I was impressed by the size of the arena, and we had good seats because we could see the stage well. The performances were all very good and the entire concert felt like a celebration. My biggest highlight was seeing the sea of phone torches swaying to the rhythm of the songs. There were many interesting people interviewed on the stage who were very inspiring and motivational. I would really like to attend the next Flame event.” (Male, Teenage Participant)
“Flame 2025 was the first Flame I’d ever been to, and I am truly beyond glad I made the decision to go. At first I was a bit nervous to go, because I was unsure about the amount of new people I’d be surrounded by, but by the end of the Flame, the unfamiliar people around me now felt like I’d known them for a lifetime. Flame brought us together, like a family all connected by the love of God and the Holy Spirit, and our faith was something we could all openly bond over. From the coach journey there, to leaving the arena afterwards, each and every moment of Flame will resonate with me forever, and I will definitely be going to Flame 2027!
Our day started off bright and early, but unlike most early mornings, I didn’t feel tired or grouchy, because I knew that God was ready to carve a wonderful day ahead of us, spent with friends & faith. By 10am, we had arrived in OVO Arena, Wembley, and the liveliness of the arena welcomed us with an open hand. Even before Flame actually began, we were met with many pop-up stalls of different Catholic organisations, including: One Hope Project, CAFOD, Hosanna House & Children’s Pilgrimage Trust, and many more.
Throughout the day we listened to a lot of speakers and performers, sharing their journeys with faith, such as: Adenike Adewale, Bear Grylls, Isaac Harvey MBE and many others. Each of them were so unique and passionate about their faith, especially Isaac Harvey MBE, who shared stories and personal experiences that were touching yet brushed with humour. As well as this, One Hope Project performed a variety of religious songs and hymns which were all very emotional, filling the entire arena with the Holy Spirit. I remember looking around at all of the people holding up their phone flashlights, swaying in awe to the music, and I’d never felt so close to strangers in my life.
My favourite part of the day was the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, it felt so uplifting and eye-opening to see over 10,000 Catholics all deep in prayer together. I wasn’t aware of the beauty of Adoration prior to Flame, but now I have been enlightened, and I want to enhance my relationship with my faith by attending Adoration more frequently. Flame 2025 did a wonderful job of bringing so many communities together to worship the Lord, whilst also educating everybody through different speakers, performances and liturgies.
Amongst all of these amazing experiences and performances, there were times where we were able to chatter amongst ourselves or get a bite to eat. I began talking to a boy called Netto, and his family next to me, about God and our Parish. They were complete strangers at 10am, but good friends by the end of the day. This is just one of the many ways that Flame brings people together, and I truly recommend going to the next Flame if you get the chance.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey with God, or whether you’ve been holding His hand for a long time, Flame is for everybody.”
We hope you now want to come the next Flame event! In the meantime, here is some information for all about what you can do as a Catholic in the UK!