INDIANAPOLIS — Pilgrims from the Diocese of Raleigh returned home from the National Catholic Youth Conference renewed in faith, united in community and energized for mission. They gathered Nov. 20 – 22 with thousands of young Catholics from across the country under the theme “I Am | Yo Soy.” Youth, young adults and leaders experienced the Church not as an abstract idea, but as a living, breathing Body of Christ — present, vibrant and on the move.
Rooted in God’s revelation to Moses at the burning bush and deepened through the sacraments, NCYC 2025 invited participants into profound moments of worship, formation and encounter. From joyful chants echoing through city streets to the reverent silence of Eucharistic adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully.
“My most meaningful moment during NCYC was having adoration on Friday night … it was so beautiful to see a stadium of 17,000 people in silence on their knees before the Lord,” said Jillian Hamel from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Raleigh. “When adoration was over and they processed out with the Eucharist, everyone in the aisles had to squeeze to the sides … in that moment, I realized this must have been how the early Christians felt in the Biblical stories where they flooded the streets and reached out for Jesus to heal them.”
A historic conversation with Pope Leo XIV was streamed live and left a lasting mark for many attendees. The pope said, “You are not just the future of the Church, but the present.” For many young people, this resonated deeply and affirmed their dignity. It called them to trust Christ, share their gifts, evangelize with love and be builders of peace. Like Moses before the burning bush, participants were encouraged not to fear God’s call, but to respond with courage and lead others closer to him.
Adult leaders echoed this transformation, noting how NCYC strengthened their own relationship with Christ and renewed their commitment to serve as witnesses in their parishes. Many expressed a desire to return as “walking testimonies,” helping others encounter God and experience the Catholic Church as truly universal and welcoming.
This powerful encounter was made possible through the faithful support and accompaniment of priests, parish communities, Knights of Columbus councils, diocesan staff and especially parish NCYC Coordinators who shepherded pilgrims every step of the journey. Their dedication ensured not only a safe and joyful experience, but one that will continue to bear fruit in parishes across the Diocese of Raleigh.
NCYC 2025 did more than gather people; it sent them forth.
“I will continue to fight the good fight … so that I may be God’s instrument and help others desire God more … [the] Catholic Church is truly universal,” said Abel Contreras, a youth adult leader from Our Lady of the Rosary in Louisburg. “I got to see the love and mercy God has for me.”
Watch videos from NCYC 2025 on the Office of Evangelization and Discipleship's YouTube channel.
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