More than 130 youth and their chaperones joined over 20,000 other high school students in Indianapolis, Ind., for the biennial three-day National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) hosted by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.
This year’s conference, Blessed, Broken, Given, centered itself in the Emmaus story (Luke 24:13-35), and participants were led on a similar Eucharistic journey of discovery leading to an encounter with Jesus in the breaking of the bread.
But, like the Emmaus story, it didn’t end there; youth were challenged to go forth and spread the good news, to be the missionary Church of now, today – not tomorrow. This message was hit home on day one with an unexpected welcome from the holy father, Pope Francis, who prayed for an increase of their strength, faith and courage and a challenge to minister to those who are sick, suffering. Prayers were also offered for the simple act of accompaniment, in friendship and prayer.
In addition to their Eucharistic journey, which included adoration and the sacrament of reconciliation, teens participated in over 112 break-out sessions on various faith topics presented by nationally known Catholic priests, religious sisters, artists and evangelists. Attendees visited over 180 booths representing religious orders, Catholic colleges, missionary opportunities and more.
Additionally, parishes were able to take their groups through team-building courses and activities, moments of prayer and one-on-one conversations with bishops.
“Overall the conference was a huge success,” said Andy Baker, coordinator for youth ministry for the Diocese of Raleigh. “This year we had the largest delegation in recent years. These young people are coming back to their local parishes with their hearts enflamed and ready to be the missionary disciples Pope Francis called them to be, to live in and with the Lord in an outgoing church, always! They are coming back ready to grow the young church in their parishes, and for that I am super excited.”
Father Scott McCue and Father Marlon Mendieta joined the pilgrimage. They celebrated Mass with the Raleigh delegation and offered the sacrament of reconciliation.
The Office of Evangelization and Discipleship will begin planning for the next conference Ablaze • Enciende El Fuego, November 18-20, 2021, early next year. Parishes who are interested in participating in the next conference should contact Andy Baker, coordinator of youth ministry.
View more photos from the conference.