Diocesan Senior High Youth Rally fitting tribute to Pope John Paul II

by Sr. Margaret McHugh, director

Office of Youth Ministry

On April 10, about 350 young people gathered for the diocesan Senior High Rally, "Road Trip to Worship Him." Lac qui Parle Valley High School near Appleton hosted this year’s festivities. Teens from all over the Diocese came to celebrate their faith and have fun together.

In many ways our Senior High Rally this year was a fitting tribute to Pope John Paul II. We did not plan it that way. .. how could we have known that he would die eight days before the Rally? But looking back, I think he must have been pleased! The day was both a tribute to him and the kind of hope that he, our Bishop and the Church see in our young people.

The very theme, "Road Trip to Worship Him," was inspired by Pope John Paul II’s chosen theme for World Youth Day 2005, "We have come to worship Him." (Mt. 2:2) Our speakers Chris Padgett, Annie Fochtman and Paul Blaschko have all been powerfully impacted by his life and his writings in one way or another. His writings, especially The Theology of the Body, were reflected in the message

they shared with the youth.

The highlight of the day for many was Sunday Mass with Bishop Nienstedt. A picture of Pope John Paul II was displayed prominently near the altar during the Mass. A beautifully inspiring and moving slideshow of the Pope was shown as a communion meditation by Brian Prow. At the close of Mass, Bishop Nienstedt told those assembled about his Ad Limina visit with the Holy Father in December. All present received the special blessing John Paul II gave Bishop during their meeting as a gift to pass on to the young people of the diocese.

Chris Padgett, the founding member of "Scarecrow and Tinmen," was the keynote speaker and led the group with laughter and prayer to reflect on God’s call to holiness.

Annie Fochtmann gave an energetic and enthusiastic witness on love and the Eucharist. Our very own Diocesan Youth Council member, Paul Blashko, gave an entertaining but highly thought-provoking speech on saving sex for marriage.

A supper of Subway sandwiches followed by a dance with DJ Bill Lage concluded the day.