COSDU EASTER CAMP 2025 FUNDRAISING

Hello!

We are Catholics of One Spirit Down Under (COSDU) - based at the University of Melbourne, establish in 1986. Our group is made up of mainly international university students, both undergraduate and graduate, as well as young professionals from across Melbourne. Though we come from diverse backgrounds, we are united by a shared purpose: to grow deeper in our Catholic faith and to build lasting fellowship among each other.

Each semester, we gather every Friday for sessions that include faith talks led by religious and lay speakers, social justice activities, community bonding, and spiritual pilgrimages. Notably, our most awaited highlight every year is the annual Easter Camp - a 3-day, 2-night retreat where we encounter Christ deeply and strengthen our Christ-centred friendships.

This year's retreat will be held in Lysterfield at the end of April. The theme is Living Hope that is inspired by the Jubilee Year. Our goal is to bring 40 participants to this retreat and create a meaningful experience for everyone.

However, we are currently facing financial challenges. Due to rising costs, our total expenses have grown significantly:

Transportation: $2,000 due to weekend and holiday (ANZAC Day) rates

Accommodation: $6,000 for lodging and facility usage for 3-days and 2-nights

Food and Miscellaneous: $1,500 for 6 meals throughout the retreat and essentials like liturgical items, activity resources, and first aid equipment

Despite our efforts through fundraising and asking participants to contribute a registration fee of $120, many of us are full-time students or just beginning our careers, and the cost remains a heavy burden.

This is where we humbly ask for your support. Your generosity can make a real difference, helping us cover the remaining costs and ensuring that no one misses out on this life-giving experience due to financial hardship. Thank you in advance, and God bless!

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

1 Peter 1:3