STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — In a heartfelt address to over 2,000 young people gathered at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama delivered a message July 20 on the importance of authentic prayer and recognizing the presence of Jesus, especially in the Eucharist, in everyday life.
Speaking during the Steubenville Youth Conference, which was held July 18 – 20, Bishop Luis encouraged attendees to be vulnerable and sincere in their spiritual lives, particularly during moments of confusion, sadness or emotional uncertainty.
Referencing the Gospel story of Martha, the bishop highlighted the value of coming to Jesus just as we are, without filters or fear of judgment. He urged those gathered to remember their humanity and value genuine emotion over a polished image.
"Jesus was a true friend of Martha. She came and expressed what was happening … and Jesus listened to her," he said. "That is what Jesus is wanting for each one of you."
Bishop Luis also emphasized the central role of the Eucharist in Catholic life, warning against compartmentalizing spiritual encounters.
"Every Eucharist is an encounter with Jesus … If we don’t recognize Jesus in the Eucharist, how can we recognize him later on?" His message resonated with the congregation and called them to embrace both the joys and the struggles of life, and to allow Jesus to meet them in the midst of it all.
Jeff Bell, head of school at Raleigh’s Cardinal Gibbons High School, reflected on the significance of the bishop’s message. “With his signature authenticity and warmth, Bishop Luis challenged and inspired the students to live their faith with courage and joy,” said Bell.
Brian Kissinger, executive director of conferences at Franciscan University, also shared his reflections.
"It was such a joy to have Bishop Zarama join us and preside over our Sunday liturgy for the Steubenville Youth Conference. His witness and his preaching were a blessing to the congregation of 2,000 teens and chaperones. Bishop Zarama spoke with a shepherd's heart of the love that Jesus has for each one of us, and he reminded the teens present of the Lord's constant invitation to turn to him in prayer. We were so blessed to have Bishop Zarama make the trip all the way to Ohio for the conference,” Kissinger shared.
A number of Diocese of Raleigh faithful, including groups from Cardinal Gibbons High School and Saint Peter Parish in Greenville, were among those who attended the conference.
Attendees Greg and Janet Mintel, of St. Luke Parish in Raleigh, said they were deeply moved.
"After Mass, the bishop stayed until he talked to anybody who wanted to chat. He was there for over an hour," Greg Mintel shared. "He signed the back of T-shirts and a frisbee. [He] wore a red, white and blue cowboy hat, and listened … some of the kids hugged him and were very slow to let him go. The look of compassion on his face was moving. There were many tears. He blessed many students, blessed rosary beads and other items. He knelt down beside a young man in a wheelchair who was recovering from a knee injury. Janet made a comment that the bishop was 'the loving papa' to these kids."
During the three-day conference one of the activities invited youth to write Bible verses of love and words of affirmation on clothespins and then secretly gift a pin to someone by clipping it on a bag or a piece of their clothing. Eventually the person realizes they’ve been “clipped” and has a beautiful message to read. Many “love clips” were created and shared, including at least one that was given to Bishop Luis after Mass.
“Janet and I were both so proud that he is our bishop, and we are part of the Raleigh Diocese,” said Greg Mintel, noting that the bishop made an impact on the clergy present as well.
"After Mass and before the final blessing, he spoke to the many priests who were there … from all over the country. He ended his advice to them by telling them that he loved them. When he was done talking to the priests, he got a standing ovation,” he added.
Bell summed up the broader significance of the weekend for Catholic youth across the country, "The Steubenville Youth Conference was more than an event. It was a spark. A reminder that the Church is alive and young — and that God is calling this generation to something beautiful."
The Steubenville Youth Conference is one of the largest Catholic youth gatherings in the country, designed to ignite faith and foster deeper encounters with Christ through worship, teaching and community. Events are held on the university’s campus and regionally throughout the United States during summertime.
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Photos by Greg and Janet Mintel. Click/tap photos to view full images.
