DYC 2018 by Diocese of Trenton

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Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Trenton, N.J.

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Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Trenton, N.J.

A Supplement of

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FEBRUARY 10 â&#x20AC;¢ CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY, LINCROFT

Newspaper of the Diocese of Trenton

Stories by Rose O’Connor, Correspondent

“I

t’s all how you look at the words. You can be fearless or you can fear less.”

Those were the words of Father Martin O’Reilly, diocesan youth chaplain, to the almost 700 teens in grades eight through 12, youth ministry leaders, adults, and men and women religious who converged Feb. 10 on Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, for the 2018 Diocesan Youth Conference. “We can’t always be fearless, but we can definitely fear less IT ’S ALL HOW when we know God is on our side. With God all things are YOU LOOK AT THE possible,” said Father O’Reilly, paWORDS. YOU CAN BE rochial vicar in St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake. FEARLESS OR YOU Under the theme “Fearless CAN FEAR LESS.” 365” – a nod to the hundreds of times the Bible references the phrase “be not afraid” – the young Church gathered to celebrate being fearless in their faith and learn how to fear less growing up in today’s world. “I feel like I was maybe moving away from my faith a little bit,” Charlene Turrubiarte, 14, of Mother of Mercy Parish, Asbury Park, shared at the beginning of the day. “Society sometimes makes it difficult to have a relationship with God. I wanted to come to encounter God more closely.” Turrubiarte and fellow youth would soon realize

 Teens give a thumbs-up as they recognize that God’s love will carry them through whatever they may face in their lives as they attend the 2018 Diocesan Youth Conference held Feb. 10 in Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft.

Photos by Craig Pittelli

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 A young man prays at the beginning of the daylong Diocesan Youth Conference, which drew almost 700 teens, youth ministry leaders and men and women religious.

they were about to encounter Christ in many different ways throughout the daylong conference that featured keynote speakers and Catholic evangelists Oscar Rivera and Franciscan Friar of the Renewal Brother Pierre Toussaint, as well as breakout sessions, faith sharing, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Reconciliation and Mass with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., as principal celebrant.

o stand on stage and look out over a crowd of nearly 700 people, teens and their adult leaders – and know they have come together to celebrate and grow in our Catholic faith – was nothing less than inspiring. It was a beautiful sight, and it made a powerful statement. Based on the energy, openness and enthusiasm of the eighth- to 12th-graders, you could clearly see that the young Church of the Diocese of Trenton is alive and hungry for a deeper relationship with Jesus!

I PRAY OUR  YOUNG PEOPLE

LEFT THE DAY KNOWING THAT ABOVE ALL, JESUS IS THE PATH TO GOD’S LOVE.” The theme of our conference was “Fearless365.” Our hope was that it would serve as an invitation for all to embrace the truth about God’s unconditional love, and help us remember that he is with us and empowering us so we can be fearless in our faith every day. Our “Fearless365” journey took us through three topics that built on each other. First, we broke open what it means to be “Fearless in God’s Love” and to know that our God loves us perfectly and unconditionally. Our keynote helped make

real our role in embracing that By Dan love and underWaddington, stand how to reSpecial turn it, so it can Contributor be our strength. Next, we explored what it means to be “Fearless in Battle.” We all face different battles in our lives, especially the sin and temptations of the world that try and pull us away from God’s love. Our workshops acknowledged some of these battles and helped our participants look for spiritual and practical tools to help fight them. Lastly, we took steps to be “Fearless in Jesus Christ.” To know that Jesus lived and died for us … and no matter what we face, he is with us and reaching out – all we have to do is give him permission. I pray our young people left the day knowing that above all, Jesus is the path to God’s love, and we NEVER have to be afraid to turn to him! It was a blessing to watch our teens fearlessly, and literally, go to Jesus both in Adoration and in the Sacrament of Confession. One of the most powerful moments in the day was when Confession began and so many young people immediately stood and formed lines around the room. It was once again a profound testimony to the faith of our young Church.

DYC perfectly came to a close in the celebration of Mass as we fearlessly received Jesus in the Eucharist. It was a true celebration filled with joyful singing and a strong sense of community. During the homily, our Bishop shared a powerful witness on how faith helped him to overcome his fear, and it offered many moments of inspiration and encouragement. One of the most impactful moments was when Bishop reminded us that “to be ‘fearless’ does not mean not to have fears: it means not to let fears overcome you.” He went on to offer many insights on how to remain strong as we face difficulty and challenged us to remember that “God created you and loves you, no matter what; God loves you just as you are, even with the struggles you face.” His message brought our whole day together – you could have heard a pin drop as he spoke. This day was truly a blessing for me and I hope for all who were involved. I could feel the hand of God influencing each aspect of DYC. I felt his loving presence was so evident in every talk, presentation and conversation. It was an honor to be a part of the team, which with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, made this year’s DYC come to life. I cannot thank enough all those who shared their gifts, talents and faith in any way to help make DYC a success. Most of all, I thank the young Church of the Diocese of Trenton for their witness and for being so willing to embrace what it means to be fearless in their faith every day. Dan Waddington is the diocesan director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

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 Franciscan Friar of the Renewal Brother Pierre Toussaint, right, enlists the help of a fellow Franciscan Friar of the Renewal in starting off the day with some icebreakers to relax and energize the youth. Brother Toussaint, one of the day’s keynote speakers, also served as emcee for the day.

There’s nothing that can’t be faced with God

 Participants share a laugh as they take part in a balance game intended to serve as one of the icebreakers before the start of the day.

side from sports banners hanging from the rafters, CBA’s Varsity Gym was almost unrecognizable as teens filtered into what looked – and felt – like a live music concert. Emblazoned with a red and black “#BEFEARLESS365” logo, which included Christ on the Crucifix, the stage was set with a full band led by Gez Ford, youth ministry coordinator in St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton. The band covered popular Christian rock songs, bringing teens and adults alike out of their seats to

dance along. Energized for the day ahead, attendees cheered as Dan Waddington, diocesan director of youth and young adult ministries, took the stage, formerly welcomed the crowd and discussed the day’s theme. “Be fearless in God’s love,” he said. “If we know that truth, there is nothing we can’t face. We want you to know that God’s love is bigger and stronger than anything we face. If our God is with us, no one can be against us, and we can be fearless.”

 Attendees get animated during the DYC.

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“Be fearless in battle,” he continued. “We know God has our back. Be fearless in Jesus. Jesus is God’s love in us. If we have Jesus, we can be fearless.” He concluded his opening greeting with his signature, “Amen?” “Amen!” the crowd roared in unison.

 Catholic evangelist Oscar Rivera speaks about fatherhood, his faith in God and the importance of trusting one’s heavenly father.

Answering God’s call takes, gives courage

ringing his upbeat urban style to the first keynote talk, Oscar Rivera spoke of his own fears as a father, raising two young children. “Love is something we are born with; we are born to love. We are not created to fear,” he stressed and added, “If fear can do a lot of things, then love can do a lot more.” Rivera, aka Two Ten, was raised in Waterbury, Conn., and learned at an early age how to be a survivor by avoiding the inner-city streets where he lived through his faith in God and hip hop. In his discussion, Rivera – an alumnus of Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, who earned a master of arts degree in theology from St. Leo University in Florida – referred to 1 John 3:1. “See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet so we are. The reason the world does not know us is

that it did not know him.” be ordained a priest in May. Brother Pierre Toussaint picked up on Brother Pierre spoke to the story in that theme during his keynote address later the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus apin the day, explaining how he, too, heard proached the apostles walking on water. God speaking to him at a young age. He recalled the words of Jesus when the apostles became frightAfter growing up in ened and thought they Freeport, Long Island, were seeing a ghost. “Take N.Y., Brother Pierre went IF FEAR courage, it is I – do not be on to attend Ave Maria CAN DO afraid.” (Matthew 14:27) University near Naples, Fla. As a student, he ex“My brothers and sisA LOT OF perienced a conversion. ters, this is a beautiful moTHINGS, THEN ment, not just in the Bible Tired of living what he called a selfish life, Broth- LOVE CAN DO and for the disciples, but er Pierre stopped into a it’s true for us, too,” Brother A LOT MORE.” chapel where Jesus was Pierre said. “He’s inviting exposed in the Blessed us today. That’s what this Sacrament. He knelt and prayed, “I’m tired, whole day is – for us to stop and take a mohelp me,” and in his heart, he said, he heard ment and invite the Lord into your boat, God respond, “I want you for myself.” into the boat of your life.” Upon graduating with a bachelor’s deDuring the day, the teens also broke gree in economics, he into groups separated by gender and age entered the Friars of the and discussed the theme of being “FearFranciscan Renewal as a less in Battle.” Rivera and Brother Pierre postulant 10 years ago. spoke with the boys, while the girls met He is currently a deacon with Felicia Navarro, director of Lifelong attending St. Joseph’s Faith Formation in the Diocese of Camden, Seminary, Dunwoodie, and Vincenza Cerami of the Archdiocese of N.Y., and is scheduled to Newark, who works with chastity ministry. Youth ministers from throughout the Diocese gathered with Waddington to  Hundreds of youth from the four counties of the discuss the challenges they face in youth Diocese listen intently to ministry as they strive to support teens in the day’s keynote speakers. their battles and be a witness to their faith.

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 Youth come together with Franciscan Friars in the school gym to show reverence for the Blessed Sacrament.

Service project, camaraderie, Adoration

n CBA’s Intramural Gym was a place for teens to relax and connect with one another throughout the day. Here students danced, took selfies and jumped in a photo booth, visited various exhibits including those on diocesan organizations, respect life campaigns, vocations and Catholic religious communities and even wrote prayer requests to be remembered at Mass. They also had the chance to participate in a service project organized by Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle. Ahead of DYC, Jeff Siedlecki, youth THIS WAS MY minister in the Burlington County FAVORITE PART parish, had contacted Cathedral Kitchen, Camden, to inquire about OF THE DAY.” the nonprofit’s needs. The organization’s response had the teens spending part of the day assembling more than 1,600 packets with utensils, napkins, and salt and pepper. “This was the kids’ idea,” Siedlecki said. “We’ve volunteered at Cathedral Kitchen before and wanted to expand on that.” This is Siedlecki’s fifth year at the DYC with the parish’s youth ministry, and he explained that the teens themselves are the real “cheerleaders” for the annual event, promoting DYC with each other. “It’s great for the kids to see the faith they have invested so much in amplified here,” he said as

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he gestured to all the exhibits, faith and camaraderie happening at the DYC. All of the noise and excitement from the gym quickly subsided as the room was transformed in a quiet, serene and holy area for the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament during Adoration. “The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith,” Ford said as music played and the youth quieted by singing, “Trust, Surrender, Believe, Receive” in the dimly lit room full of candles. While at Adoration, the youth had the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation in another part of the school, as priests from parishes throughout the Diocese heard individual confessions. “This was my favorite part of the day,” said Nicole Flores, an eighth-grade parishioner of St. Anthony Claret Parish, Lakewood. “I felt something at Adoration I never felt before.”  Bishop David M. Connell, C.M., administers the Sacrament of Reconciliation during DYC.

 Franciscan Friar of the Renewal Father Sebastian Kajko holds the monstrance above adorers during Eucharistic Adoration.

 Candles add to the reverence of Eucharistic Adoration.

 A young woman illuminated only by dim lighting and candles reflects during Eucharistic Adoration.

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Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., addresses the DYC during Mass celebrated in the Christian Brothers Academy gym. Joining him are Franciscan Friar of the Renewal Brother Pierre Toussaint, far left; Father Martin O’Reilly, diocesan youth chaplain, second from left, and Gez Ford, youth ministry coordinator in St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, and fellow bandmates, right.

Bishop relays personal story of fear during health scare

he day came to a close with Bishop O’Connell celebrating the Mass with his brother priests from around the Diocese. “You know I love you, right? I love you so much I can’t stand it!” Bishop O’Connell said to cheers from the youth.

 A temporary tattoo of the Blessed Mother peeks out from beneath a teen’s shirtsleeve during silent prayers after the distribution of Holy Communion.

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In his homily, the Bishop addressed his own fears, sharing the story of how on Christmas Eve three years ago, he received news while in the hospital that if his leg was not amputated, he would be in danger of dying. “I thought about all the times as a priest I talked to people and advised them as they faced the most difficult things in life you can imagine: kids who felt unloved or were abused; teenagers on drugs or thinking about suicide because of bullying; students who were failing in school; unwed mothers considering abortion; married couples wanting to divorce; old people who were all alone; people like myself who were sick or dying. I had the same message for them all: have faith in God, you are not alone, do not be afraid. Now, that message was for me. “As I lay in that hospital bed in that empty room all alone on Christmas Eve, a feeling of peace came over me, peace – not denial, not fear – but the peace that only comes when you have faith and trust in God and in his love and presence always, at every moment and in every experience in our lives,” he continued. “I reached for my Rosary and started to pray and drifted off to sleep, knowing I might not wake up. But I did wake up with my Rosary still in my hand. My faith calmed my fears.”

 Two young women sing acapella for the responsorial psalm during Mass.

“AS I LAY  IN THAT HOSPITAL BED … A FEELING OF PEACE CAME OVER ME.”

WANT MORE PHOTOS?

See the hundreds posted online at TrentonMonitor.com> Multimedia>Photo Galleries!  A young man receives Holy Communion.

 Ocean County teens join hands during the Lord’s Prayer.

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 Friends enjoy a laugh as nearly 700 teens clap and dance to the tunes of live Christian music at the start of DYC 2018.

 A young man wears a “#BEFEARLESS365” DYC T-shirt as he takes part in the day’s events.

‘I’m going to be fearless’

he energy among those who attended DYC 2018 was apparent as the day came to a close. “It was a beautiful day. We came and learned about God’s love and also deepened our experiences and relationships with our friends. But my favorite part of the day was the Mass,” said eighth-grade student Hugo Palacios of Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Trenton. DYC 2018, which drew nearly 200 more attendees than last year, was memorable not only for the camaraderie, speakers, service and prayer opportunities, it was the first time in two years that eighth-graders attended, which was appreciated by parish catechetical leaders across the Diocese. In addition, leaders from the four county youth ministry teams – groups that meet regularly to support each other in ministry and coordinate events – took active roles in the event by taking on DYC projects and preparing their teens by having youth ministry meetings around the DYC themes. For example, Burlington County organized the exhibit hall; Mercer leaders took charge of welcoming the attendees; Monmouth coordinated liturgical participants and scriptural banners, and Ocean was responsible for banners and the main stage and the large cross that adorned it. Youth ministry leaders said they were pleased with the day and the graces it brought their young parishioners. “The kids enjoyed it, and I’m glad that the kids wanted to come and learn more about their faith. It was just simply amazing,” said Leonardo Aceituno, youth ministry coordinator in Our Lady of the Angels Parish. The youth agreed. Chris Landry, a high school senior from St. James

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 Young men and women perform Christian rock music to a crowd of hundreds of their peers.

Parish, Red Bank, said he enjoyed the interactive style of this year’s DYC and found the entire day relatable. “I’ve been coming to the DYC for a few years, and each year it keeps getting better,” he said. “I learned that you are not alone in love. You have God, and he’s on your side. That message became even more clear today.” Turrubiarte, who had shared at the start of the day that she wanted to feel closer to God, said, “I’m going to be fearless while expressing my love for God and not be worried or fearful of what others think of me.” Added first-time attendee Jeffrey Frankenburg of St. Dominic Parish, Brick. “It brought me deeper into my faith. It was very informative and fun. I’ll definitely be back.”

 Youth ministry leaders, religious and other adults join in the excitement of DYC.

By Nikole Russek and Amanda McNally Special Contributors

connections, whilst some struggle to relate. There are some who scramble to get in front of the monstrance he Diocesan Youth Conference is an during Adoration and gaze empowering experience that invites young upon the face of Christ, and Nikole Amanda teens from the Diocese of Trenton to as always for some, AdoMcNally Russek congregate together in an enthusiastic atmosphere ration for that long is just confusing! to share their faith journey with one another. No one is shamed for their feelings because we are all on For the duration of the day, teens are exposed to local service our own personal journey to discover God. At the end of the projects, enriching stories from speakers and small group discusday, it doesn’t matter how sociable you were, the personal will sions relative to our society, including what it means to be Catholic to attend DYC and delve deeper into your love for your faith is today. In addition, teens can really glimpse into their personal spirwhat counts. ituality and strengthen their friendFearless is God’s faith in ship with God through Adoration. you, and his love is unquesThe day draws to a close with Mass AT THE DYC, FEARLESS tionable. In our everyday socilead by our Bishop, David M. O’Conety, young Christians are chalIS A COMBINATION OF nell, C.M. The fantastic music and lenged to stand up for their heavenly hymns are ingrained in the VULNERABILIT Y, INNER beliefs and show their faith. As fibers of existence, so when heard mentioned, being fearless isn’t PEACE AND STRENGTH back at home, they serve as the reabout being physically strong minder and call to return yet again. THAT YOU RECEIVE AMIDST or having no fear, but the will What does it mean to be fearnot to turn your back on who THE PRESENCE OF GOD.” less? The word fearless conveys you are and what you believe. many things, but for those who atTo truly be fearless is to not be tended this year’s DYC, the word became a new way to signify that fearless at all, but rather acknowledge that God carries all our God is always with us. One has no need to be afraid if “Christ’s got fears for us – because if God is for us, who could be against us! this!” Being fearless is more than just being bold and courageous Nikole Russek is a 10th-grader from Holy Eucharist Parish, – at the DYC, fearless is a combination of vulnerability, inner peace Tabernacle. Amanda McNally of St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, and strength that you receive amidst the presence of God. Medford, is also in the 10th grade. Fearlessness is letting God in. There’s something about the conference that strips a person of any worries, almost like peeling the skin from an orange. From the moment you cross the threshold, you are enveloped in a feeling of warmth. As you walk in, you can feel God standing behind you with his hand on your shoulder. EENS T T The day starts with multiple speakers who proclaim words of U G ABONS? what it feels like to let your guard down and open yourself to God. N I R A E E riting However, everything that happens in the beginning of the day d in w ews LIKE H FROM TE e t s e r od n is blown away by Adoration. This is where all the walls diminish, re inte who a share the go t! s n e e t r o and you become vulnerable to God as if you were a newborn child hris for oking in a column friends in C o l s i r r in his arms. This is where doors open, tears flow and hearts race. No ing spape pinion hool o manag an new Tell us your o ministry, sc l i s e a c matter who you are, this is where you will feel yourself letting him o m i E out! Your d outh Page. your youth .org. Y us a sh seoftrenton in, letting him get to know you and getting to know him as well. th e v i g , for the ppening wi o say dioce ha Throughout the conference, it’s fascinating to observe the thing t at jmauro@ e m o s auro have different reactions on everyone’s faces. There are the kids who If you r Jennifer M o scream and shout to be heard over the loud roar of the band, so edit deeply moved by the music. There are also those who timidly clap their hands while humming along to the rhythm. There are teens who don’t yet feel comfortable going to Confession and those who cry every time due to surging emotions. The stories shared by the speakers touch some people’s hearts as they find many personal

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R TH O F E IT

TOR MONI

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DYC participants speak out “It was a

beautiful day. We came and learned about God’s love.”

“I’ve been coming

at Adoration I never felt before.”

JEFFREY FRANKENBURG, St. Dominic Parish, Brick

NICOLE FLORES, St. Anthony Claret Parish, Lakewood

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 St. Timothy Award honorees

Continuing to INSPIRE

Years after winning diocesan contest, RBC student’s Loving Life design made into lapel pin Story by David Kilby, Correspondent

parishioners. He said Father John Folchetti, parish pastor, is a strong supporter of activities inspired by young people. “We just thought this was something exceptional that was created by this young woman. We knew having something created by a teenager would have great attraction A student in Red Bank Catholic High to families,” Manzi said. School, Bates recently represented her generaDoug Walsh, Supreme Knight of Countion’s dedication to the pro-life cause through cil 6392, said the pins raised approximately the creation of lapel pins using a winning $1,700, which the council intends to logo design she created for the Diocese donate of to Birthright of Monmouth County. Trenton’s 2015 Loving Life Logo contest. Walsh said it is vital for the Knights “I believe that millennials being pro-life to support the pro-life efforts of teens. is vital,” she said. “Our ideals and beliefs will “We strongly believe it is very imporbe carried on by millennials, so it’s important to encourage young people generally tant that we all know and understand what – young Catholic people specifically – it really means to be pro-life.” to get TIMELESS MESSAGE • Kerry Bates of involved in Church, charitable and pro-life An active member of RBC’s pro-life Bank Catholic High School holds a plaque Red causes,” said Walsh, who is the father of club, Caseys for Life, Bates was inspired St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, honoringfrom as her a 16-year-old. “As young people become BY work with the pro-life effort. The plaque a freshman ENERGIZED features l young to participate in the diocesan more connected electronically, they the award-winning design she created Department seem to FAITH • Joyfu of Pastoral Care’s pro-life logo for the during K. LaMantia be less involved with their communities. Diocese’s 2015 pro-life design contest. adults reactdesign By Dorothy contest. rt by Nearly dent three years later, her design is still “Yet when I speak with young people, a musical conceChris tian it Correspon inspiring “I Diocese of Trenton thought ary would be a wonderful way others – it was converted into lapel be until YOUTH MINISTRY contempor I am pleasantly surprised to find that Maher pins and Day may not planto integrate they sold to raise funds for Birthright of musician Mattin Kra- my thoughts on the pro-life orld Youth but still have Monmouth year, strong feelings favoring pro-life next campaign with my love for artistic creation,” County. Photo courtesy of Joseph A. Manzi July 27, 2016, in the January of Jeff Bruno efforts,” he continued. “In our experience, d. said. dy underway she INSTAGRAM.COM / kow, Polan ning is alrea when young people see the rewards photo Her logo represented the simplicity of of their YOU.DOT nancy centers, joining youth groups Trenton. Departa charitable service, they view it less as and Diocese of the diocesan mother’s love for her child, with minimalisa attending pro-life rallies and events, On Jan. 11, Young Adult Ministries demand and more as a fulfillment.” such and tic lines those and curves, to show that the choice to the as the March for Life. While she has not To listen ment of Youthhour-long webinar for Day Deborah Flego, RBC Christian Living yet of pro-life an been to a March for Life, Bates said she se’s Worldshould be simple, she explained. presented attending World Youth in teacher Dioce is and Caseys for Life moderator, “Nothing in eager to attend one in the future. 2019 compares to the love a mothJan. 22-27 interested Day explained how Bates puts Walsh’s words Youth will run from er feels fornher own child, and to take Praying r for an end such 2019, which Panama. to a inato abortion the into action. latest episodes of is also that I infor purematio life away from the world is to deprive assistant coord just as important as any rally, program, Panama City, like no other pilgrimage Impara owski, thenms traveling “I remember hearing great things about nar, or Wutk pilgri webi is ina Jerry with mother s • of wski S feeling Crist “WYD volunteer opportunity, she added. that love,” Bates said. ELER se, stand Jerry Wutko Kerry when she won the Respect Life :// ienced,” said httpsnearly of young in Poland. LOCAL TRAV ministry for the Dioce visitNow, Loving three years later, that logo “A parent’s bond with their own child Day 2016 have ever exper nt’s coordinator adult g Youth Life n. Logo youn contest her freshman year,” Flego rtme alive for has seoft beenrento se for World seen by thousands thanks to the is something that cannot be replaced ato, the depa “To see the Church dioce hsaid. “I was very impressed that she felt with the Dioce or in the try. Respect Life19Campaign efforts of St. Leo participate ce compared to anything else,” she said. adult minis young people is just breat ma org/wyd20 photo strongly enough to submit everything 2005 in of the Great Parish, Lincroft, and Knights on her diocesan servi ful. W YD Pana . with a sea Youth Day of of event own without being in my class or being d to World so very hope Columbus Council 6392, which partnered week ahead Day. enfrom Irelan taking and life-changing any. atory couraged by the Caseys for Life Club. ises to be a will be challenged, ience of four mand in, October World Youth Cologne, Germ Kerry 2019 prom to ci- Bates’ Loving Life logo ificent exper ] hs ahead partimake will grow, you rded. If you can is one of the many students who respect In the mont will beinto “What a magnng together. [My group helda for Your faith lapel pin. the wereREALFAITHTV.CO e do!” comi as to The lapel pins featuring Kerry Bates' also be rewa nMdays there dignity well pleas will ratio youth of as others and us, you by ie, example.” Loving prepa join world but Manzi, St. Leo the Great director camarader Joseph Life logo are available for purchase illy, were not alone rtunity to Caseys for Life provides multiple optrip, which from the pants to build to fundofthe learned they take the oppo and Father Martin O’Re the finance, Knights of Columbus Council 6392. and development, met portunities Those how them,” he said. , joy and music. n.operations ined in For inforImparato for teens to reach out in support determine per perso others like Council it mation, contact Supreme Knight Doug . ienced faith chaplain, expla the Diocese a $200 to discuss making the im- of the at $2,000with Walsh subm 6392 “They exper also a faith experience Trenton pro-life cause, including researching is estimated attending ts from diocesan youth Diocese of Y agemust into a pin and distributing it among at dougwalsh@aol.com or 732-890-5665. to us , but participan in YOUTH MINISTR in David, its volunteer prospects, helping at local interested It was a party hesis. Someone spoke es, webinar that week of Jan. 13-18 pregthe to able deposit. catec teach the of Panama, non-refund er of participants from There was will spend the Church we pracs as the west coast faith, what The numb to 50. about our a region on cultural and faith event h. .COM / why and how around ed and alimit GRAM e, be paris in INSTA se will it’s a celebr what we believ young people from participate with a host for of Dioce a Catholic event, but YOU.D OT ce projects is Exposition O’Reilly said, r There are “It r, Fathe tice. praye well as servi travel to Panama City ,” Jesus of red for e reinclude of faith and the world gatheMass, music and a sense is open to anyon They will thenDay events, which will will ey’ll for the eighth annual January 13 •tion now open “Honesty- the trip egistration ts in areas of Catholic social thought and published is welcoisme. Th explaining that “Everyone the Eucharist, presence.” World Youth is. Participan Faith and Reason Summer Program set for a break Telling Parents the Truth”… program features a liberal arts approach to learnfaith. Pope Franc book on religion and politics. He and his wife, gardless of Church at June its best.” being in God’s Day’s January dates Mass with Jan. 28. Jessica, ing. All staff are Benedictine and 10-15 regishosted at St. Vincent College, schedulingtellingsee your young andand CHECK OUT theparents World Youth summertimeSometimes on lay professors reside in Latrobe with their six children. return home will be provided by host and informatiPa. des of mary therains. on.org/ on the faculty of St. Vincent College. Participants For more Latrobe, Lodgings learning firsth or from its custo try’s torrential July truth can be difficult ceseoftrent The summer program is “designed to prompt the latest episo ://dio attendees coun Designed years whennot specifically 609-406-for advanced high school you know ittratio will have an opportunity to explore the relationn, visit will lead le may to https ct Impa rato at to avoid the students to address the questions and concepts families, with in Panama. Those 18 some peop punishment l conta and while g. schoo first-year or life ship between faith and reason, examine the on.or students who are curious d. ftrentcollege wyd2019, Noting that two weeks off from thoseor embarrassment. the way of most fundamental to humanity in the context ceseo raged to atten than a about religion, the one-week seminar, which introof cimpar@dio We’ll talk about having perennial questions of humanity, develop their or the 7410 be able to take r O’Reilly encouraged older are encou illy, who spent more native Catholic thought,” he explained. “It offers parnot duces students to the Catholic liberal arts tradition, courage communication skills, learn how to analyze to be honest. Father O’Re try in his or work, Fatheattend even if they could ticipants an opportunity to examine these topics difin youth minis Diocese, reto is open Encore to presentation students years ested ficult 15 and older. The program will arguments, prepare for college studies and the inter dozen through seminal works that are an integral part group e coming to be directed by Dr. Michael P. Krom, professor of integrate their moral, intellectual and spiritual January 20 • “Prayer in Ireland befor ience leading a youth and any Catholic, liberal arts program.” chair of the college’s philosophy department. called his exper School”… As Catholic The integration of faith and education is a key development. ent parts differ people should not be afraid to exall from “Our goal is to encourage ongoing spiritual Christians, we follow the call se we’re“Young element of the seminar. TV.CO M with becau amine their religious beliefs,” Krom said. growth as central to education,” Krom said. “I REAL FAITH to “pray always.” Jesus’ “If I have se.” fact words the “Jesus think Dioce Christ on teaches the that he is the truth who questions, it doesn’t mean we will have been successful if students leave that I ” “I am with you always”ofremind 365” is based will set us free – and yet, often youth are afraid with “Fearless e “be not afraidaam not a believer. phras It means to I see more questions that they want to read, think , thethat the critical importance of seekus that prayer is “practicingin the Bible engage with the questions and views that must and ers Oscar River that Italia answers . Speak to these talk about.” times the presence of God and ars 365ing By EmmaLee CFR, will questions. Faith , important be addressed in order to grow in their faith,” appe seeks understanding.” dent e Toussaint ghKrom Cost for the program is $495. Limited scholarremembering that Godand Correspon faith throu noted. “The Faith and Reason Summer Program is Brother Pierr fear and s ofbecame deSt. Vincent Krom for the 2018 ship a member topic inclu funding ter of the present is available. the with also Register us, regis facss even online at www. inaddre promises to help participants work through our will late to , which ultyrence that is takin 2007 these after earningment , stvincent.edu/faithandreason. t’s not too in philosophy types of challenges by means public schools. out the confe Conference Brothers Sacra his doctorate ed Youth of san Bless philosophical of from Emory and tian Dioce of the University, Atlanta, ment Encore presentation For more information, contact Krom at miand his master of arts theological discussions.” 10 at Chris Adorationdegreeto receive the Sacra from Boston Procession ing place Feb. chael.krom@stvincent.edu or visit www.facebook. He hasand published works opportunities EucharisticCollege. oft. Encouraging a life devoted to wisdom, the 365,” differworship com/saintvincentcollege or www.stvincent.edu Academy, LincrDYC theme, “Fearless in 3 • “Teen Reconciliation, praise and have all the . M. The 2018 it’s cool to Beginning Feb. is currently n, as well as ss.” free from fear Benedictio sessions. Bishop David one day, and there for us to discu uicide how to be faith event Suicide”…S out against will address sharing one’s g cause of and breakout , will conclude the ent topics entar y is set living and the third-leadin gers in the C.M. ng conference to the face of The audio comm us activities DYC O’Connell, . The daylo teena n of Mass. ship, and is open the vario Feb. 7 a daily basis ratio death among What are some fellow on p.m. until from 6 celeb ns, s to ter with scene sessio . 10 a.m. ts can regis United States signs that “Walk-in” – small group r. runs from gh 12th-graders. Participan the DYC provides TYouth.org. of praye throu w.DO rare hand of the warning someone eness c so eight “It’s se more awar for $25 at ww 8-10 is $35. that games, musi ents include, d at s To generate has in store, the Dioce could indicate to kill him/ n Feb. Other comm registratio Brothers Academy is locate the same value pt day compilmight attem can we help? or quesolics sharing so excited and what the promotional videos, and Christian to see Cath everybody this,” Rd, Lincroft. F s and seeing an Springs herself, and how 03-7182. in has produced previous conference tations 850 Newm , call 609-4 and beliefs, to be participating of The full Encore presen DYC registration ing portions teens in attendance. tions about and energized the atmosphere that other 10 • “Is it renton. love with feedback fromviewed at DioceseofT Beginning Feb.Crush?”… and, “I just to connect be a istry. being able ally get to connect videos can Love or Just hmin and the s d tell /yout try. to bring aroun is hard I don’t norm seofTrenton.org org/youthministo see teens from all Sometimes it ng people who en being in DYCs at Dioce “It’s good Story by Dav her and shari difference betweg attraction. r from previous getting toget g,” remarks one id Karas, Corr music, praye the Diocese ectin love or a passin that espondent Check out fun, t calls really conn at some clues their faith, her participan in We will look stand the hen then-eig ing video. Anot teen in the big youth group meet can help us under our faith hth grader how Jacqueline Wenzel join the DYC “one difference and presentations ed her Girl Encore role. a plays Scout Troo 23267

Here’s just some of our youth-based coverage coming this spring:

TrentonMonitor.com • JANUARY 4, 2018

Keep up with your Catholic friends across the Diocese! Read about them in the YOUTH pages of your diocesan newspaper, The Monitor – your source for news from parish youth ministries and diocesan youth programs that features stories of extraordinary young Catholics who are making a difference in their communities.

k Groundwor Laying the for those wanting details Webinar fills in Youth Day 2019 to attend World

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Summer youth program promises integration of faith, reason, education

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of past years shows highlights roaching, video app t fas 18 20 With DYC

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Get your youth ministry news front and center! Share events, projects and news about your friends who are doing good works by emailing The Monitor at Monitor-News@dioceseoftrenton.org.

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Y 11, 2018

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MONITOR • FEBRUARY 22, 2018

erry Bates supports life from conception to natural death wherever she can.

Support the Cause

 NJ Catholic Youth Rally at Six Flags Great Adventure

SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLETS:

HUGO PALACIOS, Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Trenton

• JAN UAR

CHRIS LANDRY, St. James Parish, Red Bank

“I felt something

“I’ll definitely be back.”

onitor.com

to the DYC for a few years, and each year it keeps getting better.”

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OUT the latest episo des of

REAL FAITH

TV.CO M

walking in Pageant “Sho the Miss Ame p w rica couldn’t help Us Your Shoes” para de, she but notice something contestants strik were driven down the Atla ing: while boardwalk with shoes ntic City deco home state, they were pass rated to reflect their those livin ing both spec g in extreme tators and poverty. The clash of opulence struc

and k Wenzel – and inspired homelessness comb “I was aston her to act. ined 400 ished by surroundin of new socks pairs g this glam the poverty orous parad Wenzel, now sist the home to ase,” High Scho 18 and a senior in Cher said She teamed less. ol, Marlton. up okee the Miss Amer with At the age of 15, the teen of Arc Paris organizatio ica from St. Joan h, n to help homelessn Marlton, decided to collec t items ess tackle Scout Gold in Atlantic City for ing its Atlan durher Girl Award tic City parade, as “Entering highservice project. well school soon award was with the Atlan as , my gold constantly on my mind come up with Mission Healt tiCare , trying to SEEING A the poverty new ideas, and helpi annual healt hcare’s bring NEED • Jacqu ng in h the most bene Atlantic City seemed with those exper fair for The s a carload of shoes toeline Wenzel of St. Joan 100 pairs iencing to be AtlantiCare of Arc Parish ficial,” she knew that homelessn Missio , Marlt and spread of shoes were part I wanted to recalled. “I always ess. of a larger n Healthcare, Atlantic on, the word abou go into the cal field in effort to help City. In addition t foot healt medimy the homeless to h. Photo courte certain draw future, so this proje providing sy of Nicole ct had a new shoes, to me.” Wenzel Wenz uted Over the el also distr “blessings worked tirele course of two years, care and first bags” with socks and ibfair attendees. Wenz ssly aid foot el to collect more supplies. She pairs of shoes education “It has been also created than 800 board and collect a pleasure on foot disor s to provide infor or purchase some to one so youn work with mation a ~•~•~• g and passi and shared ders suffered by the giving back onate abou ~•~•~• homeless that informatio to t Kirkland, care the community,” said ~•~•~• n with healt Vincent manager for h ~•~•~• AtlantiCar ~•~•~• e. See Service ~•~•~• • 32 ~•~

By Ken Dow ney Correspon dent

•~•~•~

fter watching, with her famil “A Christmas Carol” WHAT CHIL Gibilisco want y, 15-year-old Angela Gibilisco, left, D IS THIS? • Ange la ed to take is handed and give it portrayed Baby Jesus the story a religi by born, by Julia a parishioner’s new- , “It was durin ous twist. Bulvid, who the Blesse Ghost of Chris g the scenes with portrayed d January 20 the of Christmas,Mother in “The Heart • “Prayer in ined an angel tmas Past that I first imagSchool”… the youth ” a play organized by Scrooge and appearing to a man minis Christians, we As Catholic simil taking him Laboure Parish try of St. Catherine ar to happened , Middletow to “pray alway follow the call courtesy of on the very to see what actually n. Photo Theresa Gibilis s.” first Gibil Jesus’ Christmas isco, mem words co “I am with you always” remin St. Catherine ber of the youth minis ,” said learned to us that praye d Labo try trust each r is other, trust Hence “The ure Parish, Middletow in the directors the presence “practicing Heart of Chris n. of presented together in that it would all come tmas Dec. 29 by remembering God and the end.” 24 youth minis,” members, That sentiment present with that God is was born. try us, even was Originally when Shak public schoo in our espeare’s biggealso apparent Nativity story , plans were to reena ls. came st element into ct Encore present , the but when learn play: dram ation children in a. During the lead-up to With an idea ing that religi the Beginning on pape a similar perfo ous education class came to life traying Mich big day, the actor porput with the help r, the production “Popularity Jan. 27 • ael let it be plans. Inste rmance, the youth chan on coordinato of youth minis couldn’t known ad, Gibilisco r There In”… When and Fitting try the show was make the performan that he her friend enlisted the ged it comes to fitting “The prepa sa Gibilisco. ce, and and youth left without in and being ration going ministry peer help of that of Mya Riley popular, peopl a The lead. in youn the any to show was adviser live will sometimes e everyone she g Gibilisco quickly asked religious “Chriwrite what they consi had informal performance,” she dered a said. knew to fill lengths. How go to extreme stmas Carol rehearsals when she turne als, last-minute in for the role, … formal rehea “We far would .” In the play, a Scrooge-lik to be accepted? you go Anthony, 14, d to her younger broth and named Mich support roles additions to the cast rse character ael er, , and of cours and Encore present ber, he could also a youth ministry ian angel and is visited by his guard how transform ation e had to some memn’t refuse. brought back our parish play “With Christmas theat woul hall to out er, the into d not have him, this which we did to first been happened,” by way of verya parish is truly abou experience what the curtains to she said, grate as successful or holiday divid t. ing’ and ‘back e the hall into ‘thea long ful. ter seat- youthTheresa Gibilisco said stage.’” she believed , as well as Through it the herself, all, she said, God while “the kids creating the were inspired by performan ce. See Dicke ns’ • 32