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February 25, 2006 ORLANDO FL YOUTH RALLY AND LISTENING SESSION

February 27, 2006

Synod = A council or an assembly.

This was a unique event for me. I was invited to be among 250 teens and adults gathering to discuss the future of their diocese.

Bishop Thomas Wenski of Orlando has called the people of the diocese to a synod…a gathering…to look forward and to give input into planning for the diocese.

Tony Maione and Ray Maleve and a whole host of other people on the youth commission put together a great day—a day of speaking and listening about hopes and challenges. Music ministry was provided by SmallFish (Evan LeFloch) and the bishop’s presence was such a good thing for the teens.

I was so gladdened that young people were ACTIVELY sought out to get their input. I was so impressed by the energy of the teens who gave up a Saturday to answer 4 great questions:

    1. What are the greatest challenges you face as a young Catholic?
    2. How is the Church addressing these challenges? What can the Church do to address them?
    3. What Spirit-gifts do youth bring to the Church? How are youth allowed to share them? What can the Church do better to allow youth to share them?
    4. If you were Bishop of Orlando, what 3 concrete things would you do to ensure the goals of youth ministry were being met?

The teens were SO articulate, asking for more skills (understanding and explaining their faith) and opportunities to share their passion, energy, enthusiasm, compassion and hope. They impressed many adults present and they impressed me.

  • “It is not a matter of inventing a new program. The program already exists: it is the plan found in the Gospel and in the living Tradition, it is the same as ever. Ultimately, it has its center in Christ himself, who is known, loved and imitated…”

    • Pope John Paul II in

      Novo Millennio Ineunte

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