Parishes getting ready for NCYC

by Bill Casey

Planning for participation in the largest gathering of young Catholics in the United States is well underway. On December 5, 2001 hundreds of youth and their adult leaders from the New Ulm diocese will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana. People must have registered by November 1, 2000 in order to secure housing.

This faith-filled event was hosted in Minneapolis in 1995 with 10,000 young people and leaders from around the United States. The expected attendance for this year’s event is anticipated to reach 25,000.

Fifteen chartered buses will transport the Diocese of New Ulm contingency. Youth have an opportunity to grow in their faith through Christian music, worship and prayer, and attend workshops with some of the best national speakers. Meeting hundreds of youth from all over the nation just can’t be beat. Bishops from all over the nation join in. Selected youth are able to have discussions and voice their concerns with the bishops, which is a rare opportunity.

The Indianapolis 500 location lends itself to a "raceway" theme. Many experiential opportunities for youth exist while they are at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), not to mention the fun of all the concerts, dances, comedy, and more. We look forward to great experiences, great people, and many blessings for the families and friends that support youth in our parishes as they begin preparation for this journey.

Bill Casey is director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of New Ulm.