"I am amazed how one of our young adults continues to take on additional outreach responsibilities. She recruited other young adults to help with and organize our Giving Tree program that supports families in a parish in the eastern part of our diocese."
"Adoration after Lectio Divina has been very well attended. We have had young adults from other parishes participate. The highlight this month was the gathering at Saint Meinrad."
"In the month of October, several of the events put on included: Theology on Tap, Adoration, and the bi-monthly coffee social, which saw a rise in young adult attendance. I believe this indicates that these are the type of events that young adults are seeking."
"Our parish offered a 4-week women's spirituality event in October using the book Unpacking the Mysteries of the Rosary by Keith Nester. There were more than 45 women of all ages who attended this book club. We invited the three young women who are candidates in our OCIA program to attend. Not only did they learn so much about the Rosary, but they became part of our women's ministry and began to form relationships. One of the young women even met someone who inspired her so much, she has asked her to be her sponsor for her journey to becoming Catholic."
"Some of our young adults went on pilgrimage to Italy and upon returning, decided that they wanted to continue to gather once a month with Italian food and a recounting of their time together. The bonds they formed in this experience has led them to becoming even more a part of parish life, including volunteering at middle school youth ministry."
"October flew by so quickly, but it's been such a fun month full of people receiving the sacraments. From weddings to baptisms and even a few birthdays. It's been so beautiful to witness these moments where people are so close to Christ, and to witness His love shared amongst those in our community."
"I thought I was done with weddings for a while...then they started to begin again... I always enjoy meeting with couples, especially when they take the time of formation seriously (and with good humor). When I do my last session with them, we share a meal that I cook at the rectory. I am always delighted but also sad to see them complete our time because I so enjoy getting to hear how Christ is working in their lives as they prepare for the Sacrament. Those sentiments of a proud father return always a few months after the wedding when they text me photos of their ultrasounds, letting me know they're expecting. It's a joy to still be able to share in the blessings and joys from God in their lives."
"The Fall Gathering [at Saint Meinrad] provided such a great opportunity to invite and then connect with some of our young adults. Three young ladies joined us, and it was wonderful to get to know them directly. Two are involved with our youth ministry but were more in the background. They have started to share ideas and push toward leadership roles. It is beautiful to see them blossom."
"We went to Mexico City on a mission trip with 40 people from our parish, including three high schoolers and eight young adults! It was incredible. We also had a great Young Adult Halloween Party with over 60 young adults who came! Praise God!"