Never alone, forever accepted.
That was the theme of this year’s Youth Day, sponsored by the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress.
It took place at the Anaheim Convention Center and drew thousands of students over the course of the four-day Congress — 14,000 alone for the culminating youth day rally.
Among them were more than 120 teens from a pair of Viatorian parishes in Las Vegas who came for the youth rally.
Viatorian Associate Rosy Hartz led a busload of teens from St. Viator Catholic Community while Steven Dwyer, Life Teen director, led another two busloads from St. Thomas More Catholic Community.
At the congress, teens came together and shared in liturgy, workshops, entertainment and experienced the energy of being with so many other young people — and clergy members — passionate about their faith.
“It is pretty amazing for our kids to see 14,000 teens coming together to learn and worship,” Steve says. “They get to hear some dynamic speakers that bring a fresh face and a new way of looking at things.
“It’s just a great experience that you cannot get at the parish level,” he adds, “and all in one day.”