Diocese prepares for World Youth Day with Mass, holy hour

At the end of Mass on the Solemnity of Christ the King in November 2020, Pope Francis called for a renewal of the celebration of young people in the local churches. He also announced that beginning in 2021 he would transfer the diocesan celebration of young people from Palm Sunday to Christ the King Sunday.

In response to Pope Francis’ call to celebrate the young people on the Solemnity of Christ the King, the diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization hosted a Mass, dinner and Eucharistic adoration for youth (ages 12 to 18), young adults (ages 18 to 39) and families in our local Church.

The Mass included prayers and blessings specific to youth and young adults provided by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and a homily by Father Timothy A. Christy, which included encouragement for the youth and their connection to the great Solemnity of Christ the King of the Universe. Father Christy serves as rector, Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen.

After Mass, the attendees shared a meal and socialized, then attended a Eucharistic adoration led by Father Michael Tabernero, who exposed the Blessed Sacrament.

Those present prayed and encountered Jesus in the monstrance and through the sacrament of confession, surrounded by dozens of candles and string lights. Music was provided by Brianne Nealon, Marisel Rodriguez, Jerome Harkins, and Bailey Savoy.

As a part of the service, Bailey Savoy, founder and chief executive officer, The Catholic Arsenal, read and reflected on Luke (5:4), focusing on the verse in which after teaching the crowds from a boat, Jesus tells Simon, “Put out into the deep water and put out [drop] your nets for a catch.” In doing so, Savoy exhorted each person to reflect on what it is they are holding onto.

“What is your net? What is that thing that you are holding onto?” Savoy asked, then encouraged them to picture it, whatever it may be, and let it down, trusting that Jesus will fill the desires of their hearts when they do.

This intentional time was intended to provide a safe space for prayer and reflection — to like the Blessed Mother, take the hands of the young people present, and lead them to her son.

The evening was a precursor to World Youth Day Lisbon, which is scheduled to be held July 29-Aug. 7. Bishop James F. Checchio will lead youth from the diocese to the event.

Callahan is director, diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry