Last week, the Office of Youth and Young Adults (YYA) of the Diocese of San José hosted a gathering of their constituents at the Chancery. Sandra Torres, the Director of the Office of YYA, said that they coordinate these gatherings because “it’s very important for all Youth and Young Ministers to come together to foster fellowship, equip leaders, and nurture their spirituality as a team for the young Church. We hope these gathering inspire leaders to cultivate their discipleship in Christ.”
While prayer is a big component of these gatherings, the youth ministers also make time to share best practices, give each other advice, and brainstorm how to overcome the challenges they each face in their ministries.
Row David, Youth Director at Holy Spirit Parish, reflected on this opportunity to gather with his peers. “Compassion builds community, and as a community, we build compassion. We are not just individual Youth Directors but a community, a team who shares the same hopes and enthusiasm for this next generation of Catholics.”
The enthusiasm and camaraderie was indeed palpable in the room and exciting to watch. As expected from this group of “fun-to-be-around” people who are on fire with the Lord, they requested a picture with “silly faces” – we agreed!
We are extremely grateful for the work these Youth Ministers are doing in our community every day, and we can’t wait for them to unveil their plans for the next Diocesan Youth Retreat!
