Outbreak of faith team makes an impact

by Bill Casey

On April 16, 2000, the 23rd Annual High School Rally took place at the Nicollet Public High School. Once again hundreds of 9-12th grade youth and their adult leaders gathered for a day of celebrating their faith as Catholics in the church today.

The day started out with questions about the weather in different parts of the diocese. Some people found that freezing rain had caused a few problems in travel; however, in most of the areas of the diocese it did not turn out to be a big problem.

Once people arrived at the high school the excitement began. The Diocesan Youth Council and youth ministers had worked for months in preparation for this day. The theme of, "Do You Believe?," led participants through the day. There were challenging questions and situations posed by the Outbreak of Faith Team from Cultivation Ministries.

The Team from St. Charles, Illinois, kept the pace moving. The live drama and ads projected on three large screens left an impacting message on all who attended. The use of computers and digital equipment in combination with special lighting and effects produced a rally unlike any other. It was intended that the work teams focus on how RENEW 2000 could come alive this year in the area of rallies and festivals. The theme -"Do You Believe?" - came from the most recent week of RENEW 2000.

There was some faith sharing that took place during the day and many good questions posed to keep youth thinking as they left. Later in the afternoon the liturgy took place with a procession. Bishop Raymond Lucker presided at the liturgy. During the homily Bishop Lucker challenged the youth to make a difference in the lives of others by giving of themselves. The $1074.20 taken up in the offertory collection will go to the diocesan mission in San Lucas Toliman in Guatemala. This will buy about a half acre of land in Guatemala and will be a big help to the people there.

The youth in the Diocese of New Ulm are making a difference in the lives of others. There are many youth that have been connected to the mission over the years and continue to make an impact. Following the Mass there was a supper and a lively dance. The Diocesan Youth Council concluded the day with recognition of the graduating seniors and a closing prayer.

The excitement and energy around this day was wonderful. There truly is a great presence of young people in the Catholic church today and that was very evident in this rally.

The Diocesan Youth Council was an important part of this day and provides great leadership for others. Youth going into 10-12th grade for the fall can apply for the Diocesan Youth Council for next year. Applications were given out at the rally and will continue to be given out upon request over the next weeks. The deadline date is May 26.