Investing in today’s youth is necessary in growing the Body of Christ. Teaching young people in the Church to grow in their relationship with the Lord prepares them to serve Christ in all they do. Serving the youth not only equip them to become future leaders, but also allow them to contribute to the Church today. Our young people definitely need guidance and support as they navigate through the most challenging part of their holistic development and seek to grow in their relationship with Christ. Youth Ministry leaders rooted in their own faith effectively communicate with young people. In addition, they are able to identify with the youth and build meaningful relationships with them.

I am thrilled that starting this month of October, on 4th Sundays at 6PM, we are having the Youth Mass back! At the launch of the Youth Ministry programs last month, it was amazing to see and to feel the energy of the young members of our faith community, and how they long to be together with their fellow students and young people currently in the programs. What excited me as well was the fact that a good number of our “alumni” are returning to be part of the core team ready to assist and actually teach the lessons. It truly makes me hopeful to see more their intensified involvement in the days ahead – particularly as we roll out more indoor and outdoor events for them and the entire family and community at Saint Raymond!

At the end of the day, it is important for all of us to have our efforts consolidated to keep the youth engaged – not as a project to complete but a call to respond to!  Ultimately, helping them to grow spiritually in these formative years will enable them to make an impact for and witnesses to Christ, both now and in their future.

On that note of engagement, we have an upcoming retreat geared towards getting our young adults together for a weekend of celebrating the Sacraments, listening to faith-filled talks and sharing of experiences scheduled on December 3-5 at Villa Maria del Mar in Santa Cruz. Space is very limited. Kindly let me know if you are interested to join us. (Yes, I used “us” after redefining young adults to be from 18-39 to still include myself for another year!). Seriously,  I assure you that it will be an awe-some weekend with the Lord (by Santa Cruz beach)! Email me to register or for more information.

Peace and blessing,

Father Erick